Tuesday, December 24, 2019

Assess the usefulness of the Hypodermic Syringe model of...

Mass Media (Q) Assess the usefulness of the Hypodermic Syringe model of the mass media. The hypodermic Syringe Model (HSM) is an early theory model, which believes that there is a direct correlation between the violence and anti-social behaviour portrayed in different media types (e.g. Television, computer games and films). Sociologists found that the most venerable audience to the HSM are children and teenagers. this is because they are still in the early stages of socialization so are therefore very impressionable. A prime example to support this theory is the case of Jamie Bugler. Jamie was a 2 year old boy that was abducted and murdered by two 10 year old boys. The boys had apparently watched Childs Play 3 before they murdered†¦show more content†¦It was then suggested that by watching an exciting film aggressive energy is released into safe outlets as the viewers immerse themselves in the action. This is known as Catharsis. Further problems have also been identified with the various research conducted above in the methodology of hypodermic syringe studies (e.g. Banduras have been questioned). The studies (noted by Gauntlett) have often been completed in the laboratory which, as previously mentioned, creates low validity as they are in an artificial context and are not in a natural setting. Children especially do not behave naturally under these environments and conditions, so this can make the sociologists findings questionable. Small sample sizes are often used, which means that the findings cannot be generalised. this means that the results cannot be applied to a greater audience with confidence as some of the results may not be the same when the experiment is carried out with more people. Another criticism against the HSM is that some studies are not entirely clear on how violence is defined as there are a number of different types of violence that are put into different categories (for example, auth entic violence from war pictures compared with sporting violence such as boxing). This is associated with whether these different types of violenceShow MoreRelatedHypodermic Syringe Model1453 Words   |  6 PagesUsing material from Item A and elsewhere, assess the usefulness of the Hypodermic Syringe Model of the Mass Media (33 marks) The Hypodermic Syringe Model suggests that the media are strong and the audience is weak and passive. This means that the messages the media portrays, society will instantly believe without questioning the ideas and morals behind this. The model suggests that children are more susceptible to the messages in the media and accept the information provided as they have not fullyRead MoreSociology A2 Revision 2012 34479 Words   |  18 Pagesï » ¿ Unit 3 exam: Wednesday 13th June, am Unit 4 exam: Tuesday 19th June, pm Easter Revision: tbc A2 Syllabus: AQA Sociology GCE (new specification) Unit 3: Mass Media (SCLY3) Worth 20% of your final A Level Written paper, 1 hour 30 minutes 60 marks available Unit 4: Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods (SCLY4) Worth 30% of your final A Level Written paper, 2 hours 90 marks available Timetable Use your revision checklists to draw up a timetable for revision leading up to the exam. Make

Monday, December 16, 2019

Research Paper Help Services Fundamentals Explained

Research Paper Help Services Fundamentals Explained You will need research paper writing help as you truly feel frustrated getting a good deal of tasks each and every day. There are tools available to assist you obtain everything done quickly and punctually. Our ordering process is extremely easy and will barely take your time so go ahead of time and put it now! If you are operating out of time, then request research paper help. Writing a research paper is a tool for those teachers in order to rate the abilities and understanding of the students. On campus tutors are usually available to assist you collect an outline and begin the writing process. MeowEssay writing service enables you to attain top benefits and praises from your professor. Being a real college student might be quite challenging particularly when the deadline to file your research paper is coming fast. Research Paper Writing needs a good deal of hard work and also university students must do lots of research. One of the principal explanations for why students are continuously stressed out is they always get too many writing assignments. At college level, the students don't have sufficient knowledge when it has to do with writing a research paper. Usually, they are assigned to write a research paper in order to get their degrees. Top Choices of Research Paper Help Services Paper was and still is extremely essential in today's world in lots of ways. It is essential that all our Research Paper Help services have a component of time management to make sure that papers are completed in time and sent to the customer. The Benefits of Research Paper Help Services Try to remember this in case you require professional research paper writing help, you could always rely on our experts! Research paper writing help services has been guiding students from quite a long time and are mindfu l of all of the ingredients require in order to compose an ideal research paper. Therefore, in regards to research paper aid, you will not discover a better partner than Us. Acquiring help with this kind of academic research paper will stop you from getting bad grades. If you need assistance writing a research paper, all you need to do is give them an undertaking. Some individuals find it impossible to compose a paper right because they lack fantastic writing abilities. Our key task is to allow you to forget about all of the stress linked to your research assignments. If you become nervous whilst composing a reference list, then you ought to take our research paper help services. So, the practice of producing an effective research is not so easy! Submitting without conducting a comprehensive research is going to be the biggest mistake you could ever make in your academic life. The Chronicles of Research Paper Help Services You can be certain that your do my paper request is going to be satisfied. Paper works too, however, it only requires a small amount of extra work. Research paper writing service is a great choice. In truth, it is by far the most significant part research paper writing. An expert research paper writing company is going to have an informative website telling you everything you must know about how to purchase a research paper online. What makes research paper writing an extremely grueling task is the simple fact it requires you to read a good deal. If you need assistance writing a paper and you're looking for an appropriate writing service, you may always book a personalized paper at DoaHomework.com. Although essays and research papers can be an issue, term papers are a lot more complex than nearly all of the academic assignments. Your professor might ask you to compose the research paper on particular topic in specific format and fashion. A student who's assigned to compose a research paper ought to be clear regarding the concepts concerning the academic discipline for which he's writing a research paper. If your sources aren't credible, your paper won't be credible. The resources you need and the amount of the paper should be determined before you get started writing a research paper. The entire paper is going to be based on it. Reviewing your research paper one final time can be deceptively complicated, and making sure your paper is wholly polished is needed.

Sunday, December 8, 2019

Nurses Role in PACU

Question: Describe about the Nurses Role in PACU. Answer: Efficient pain management techniques are essential components in the delivery of quality patient care. Nurses play a significant role in facilitating this by employing a broad range of innovative and acquired mechanisms which are geared towards allaying patients pain. A typical setting where these techniques are exemplified is the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) where patients are placed temporarily after a major surgery. Nurses perform some roles to facilitate pain reduction. Firstly, according to Kastrup, Seeling, Barthel, Bloch, Spies, Scheller Braun (2012), nurses conduct various assessments to establish the point of emanation of the pain and any factor that might be associated with it. This entails allowing patients to depict areas of tenderness besides describing its nature. This allows selection of appropriate pain-relieving interventions and utilizing them beside prioritizing the major areas of concern. For those patients who may not be in a position to verbalize their pain, unnecessary movements or discomfort are be used to analyze whether the patient has any pain. Secondly, they play a role in the safe administration of non-opioid analgesics to counter reception of pain. Currently, opioid medications for pain management are supposed to be administered as adjunctive analgesics (Kastrup, et al. 2012). Following surgery, sensory pathways are triggered to transmit pain impulses from the altered tissues to the nervous system which culminates the situation. Drugs such as acetaminophen are effective in the quick curbing of the pain. Employing physical techniques such as massage and repositioning as part of the non-pharmacological ways of approaching pain is another technique that is used in PACU by nurses. This is geared towards altering the patients physiological processes. Massage not only increases blood supply to the altered tissues but also reduces pain reception. Reposition aids in relieving pressure on the affected tissues besides facilitating a sufficient blood flow (Kastrup et al. 2012). A patients reaction to this techniques should dictate whether they are efficient or alternative means should be employed. In addition, a nurse ought to collaborate with other care providers in order to ascertain the point of emanation of the pain. Mutual decision-making facilitates effective management of the pain. For instance, the anesthetist can be consulted on the possible side effects of using some drugs while the patient is in the process of from anesthesia. Establishing an empathetic relationship with the patient facilitates the creation of a therapeutic environment which ultimately aids in the elimination of pain. The patient finds it easy to report any episodes of pain thus allowing the nurse to intervene before deterioration. A nurse should not depict sympathy no matter how painful the tenderness is unless it is done in order to change the mindset of the patient. Employing cognitive techniques such as encouraging the patient to meditate about a certain subject makes him be distracted as his focus deviates away from the pain (Sibille, Kindler, Glover, Gonzalez, Staud, Riley Fillingim, 2011). Progressive monitoring of the general condition of the patients should also be prioritized as it gives a trend of what the prognosis of the pain or condition might be. Older patients are likely to be prone to diseases, unlike young people. This affects the pharmacokinetic changes that are usually associated with opioid usages. The elderly are more sensitive to them when compared to the younger age groups. They have a higher level of unbound and active substances besides having slightly different drug redistribution (Ganter, Michael, Blumenthal, Stephan, Du?bendorfer, Seraina, Brunnschweiler, Simone, Hofer, Tim, Klaghofer, Richard, Zollinger, Andreas Christoph, 2014). An increase in age facilitates protraction redistribution of opioids to the liver which results in prolonged metabolism and an increase in duration of the effects. Opioids such as propofal and ketamine increase the risks of acquiring diseases such as delirium when administered in doses that dont resonate well with the age group of the patient. Advance in age declines the number of neurons in the body reduces due to auto regulation and hence their pain reception is less pronounced than in young people. This facilitates the use of lower doses because efficacy is still achieved with the small doses. Moreover, administration of a dose similar to all age groups is likely to predispose the elderly to respiratory distress. Therefore, vulnerability to respiratory distress is increased with advancement in age. Weight affects the ratio of adipose tissue to the lean mass of the body. Lean body mass is employed in determining the dosage of the opioid medications (Faraj, Vegesna, Mudali, Khairay, Nissar, Alfarhan Sabir, 2012). Different weights ultimately lead to different cardiac output which affects the rate of distribution of the drugs. Patients with more weight are given much attention because they are vulnerable to respiratory distress if advanced dosages are administered to them. Lighter patients have a reduced cardiac output hence redistribution of the drugs is not pronounced like in patients with bigger weights. This necessitates the use of slightly higher doses in them. References Faraj, J. H., Vegesna, A. R., Murali, I. N., Khairy, M. A., Nissar, S., Alfarhan, M., Sabir, K., ... Go, T. (January 01, 2012). Survey and management of anesthesia-related complications in PACU.Qatar Medical Journal,2012,2, 64-70. Ganter, Michael T, Blumenthal, Stephan, Du?bendorfer, Seraina, Brunnschweiler, Simone, Hofer, Tim, Klaghofer, Richard, Zollinger, Andreas, ... Hofer, Christoph K. (2014).The length of stay in the post-anaesthesia care unit correlates with pain intensity, nausea and vomiting on arrival. (info:doi/10.1186/s13741-014-0010-8.) BioMed Central. Kastrup, Marc, Seeling k, Matthes, Barthel, Stefan, Bloch, Andy, le Claire, Marie, Spies, Was Claudia, Scheller, Matthias, Braun, Jan. (2012).Effects of intensivist coverage in the post-anaesthesia care unit on surgical patients' case mix and characteristics of the intensive care unit. (BioMed Central Ltd.) BioMed Central Ltd. Kastrup, M., Seeling, M.J, Barthel, S., Bloch, A., le, C. M., Spies, C., Scheller, M. Braun, J. (January 01, 2012). Effects of intensivist coverage in the post-anaesthesia care unit on surgical patients' case management and characteristics of the intensive care unit.Critical Care (London, England),16,4.) Sibille, K. T., Kindler, L. S. L., Glover, T. L., Gonzalez, R. D., Staud, R., Riley, I. I. I. J. L., Fillingim, R. B. (July 01, 2011). Individual Differences in Morphine and Butorphanol Analgesia: A Laboratory Pain Study.Pain Medicine,12,7, 1076-1085.

Sunday, December 1, 2019

Problem of Smoke

Over the past, smoking has posed a big danger to the community. Many people have become victims of smoking both directly and indirectly. The people who are affected directly are the smokers themselves while those who are affected indirectly are the people who stay near the people who smoke. Smoking therefore poses a very big problem especially to people who live as a group or as a community. Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Problem of Smoke-free Campus specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In campus, the issue of smoking has been a major problem. This is due to the risks associated with smoking to the students as well as the workers. However, the issue of whether smoking should be outside or inside the campus has been controversial. Discussion From my point of view, smoking should completely be barred from all public places where people are mixed up. This is because smoking has been found to affect both the smokers as well as those staying around them. Therefore, when smoking is carried out inside the campus, those people who are non-smokers will also be affected. Some will even be forced to move away from the places like entertainment halls in case someone smokes around them. This denies them their right as individuals. In other words, people should smoke outside the campus to avoid interfering with other people’s lives. Another reason why people must smoke outside the campus is to avoid peer influence into smoking activities. Peer influence is one of the main ways through which people are ‘recruited’ into smoking. Therefore, by allowing smokers to interact with non-smokers while smoking in campus, this may cause non smokers to adopt the vice. Thus, people should smoke outside the campus to avoid such temptations. Also, smoking is closely associated with abuse of other drugs like cocaine. Most of the people who smoke are also victims of other drugs. Therefore, banning smok ing within the campus will still be preventing the spread of other drugs’ abuse among the campus students. In the same way, banning smoking within the campus will make smoking a burden to the smokers. This is because they will be forced to move outside the campus every time they want to smoke. In the long run, this may encourage the smokers to quit smoking.Advertising Looking for essay on health medicine? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Smoking in the campus will expose every person residing in the compound to secondary smoke. That is, both students and workers who work around the campus. Smoking has been associated with very many diseases. For instance, smoking has been a major cause of lung cancer. Smoking is also associated with other breathing and the general respiration system complications. Therefore, smoking within the campus increases the cases of illnesses. Consequently, this increases health care service c osts incurred by institutions in treating students and other workers within the campus. Most of the people suffering from the lung cancer are smokers. Therefore, smoking outside the campus protects non smokers from acquiring such illnesses. Conclusion In conclusion, this discussion has clearly shown that smoking in campus is very dangerous. Many problems can be avoided by banning smoking within the campus. For instance, it will be possible to protect non smokers from illnesses associated with smoking. It will also be possible to protect non smokers from the temptation of engaging themselves in the vice. Therefore, smoking should be abolished from within the campus by designating smoking zones outside the campus. This essay on Problem of Smoke-free Campus was written and submitted by user Alma N. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Writing Your AMCAS Personal Statement

Writing Your AMCAS Personal Statement Writing an AMCAS personal statement for medical school is tricky. While your essay has to convey a message of professionalism and attention to detail, it must also be entertaining and informative. As someone who knows quite a bit about writing AMCAS essays, allow me to offer the following information. The American Medical College Application service helps thousands of students apply to hundreds of colleges all over the world. Most medical school directors use the AMCAS application (as opposed to their own) in order to make things easier on their staff as well as the students. Whats terrific about the AMCAS personal essay is that the same one is sent to every college applied. In other words, applicants dont have to write a separate personal essay for every school in which theyre interested. That which makes the AMCAS process easier, however, also makes it more difficult. Since all the med schools are aware that their AMCAS applicants only have to write one essay, they are counting on those essays to be stellar. That is why I encourage all AMCAS applicants to take their time with the essay section. Write several drafts, if necessary, and hire a professional editor to help you with the final revision. The AMCAS application process is tough, thats for sure. Fortunately, there are many professional editing companies that can help. For assistance in finding an editor to proof your AMCAS personal statement, or if you need help writing your secondary essays and/or residency program personal statement, please access the link provided.

Friday, November 22, 2019

Past Forms of Regular and Irregular Verbs Practice Exercise

Past Forms of Regular and Irregular Verbs Practice Exercise This exercise will give you practice in using the correct past forms of regular verbs and irregular verbs. Before attempting the exercise, you may find it helpful to review Forming the Past Tense of Regular Verbs and introduction to Irregular Verbs in English Instructions The paragraph below has been adapted from the opening chapter of  Black Boy, an autobiography by Richard Wright. Complete each sentence correctly by changing the verbs in brackets from the present tense to the simple past tense. For example, the verb tell in the first sentence should be changed to told. When you have completed the exercise, compare your answers with those at the bottom of this page. From Black Boy, by Richard Wright One evening my mother [tell] _____ me that thereafter I would have to do the shopping for food. She [take] _____ me to the corner store to show me the way. I was proud; I [feel] _____ like a grownup. The next afternoon I looped the basket over my arm and [go] _____ down the pavement toward the store. When I [reach] _____ the corner, a gang of boys [grab] _____ me, [knock] _____ me down, [snatch] _____ the basket, [take] _____ the money, and [send] _____ me running home in panic. That evening I [tell] _____ my mother what had happened, but she [make] _____ no comment; she [sit] _____ down at once, [write] _____ another note, [give] _____ me more money, and [send] _____ me out to the grocery again. I crept down the steps and [see] _____ the same gang of boys playing down the street. I [run] _____ back into the house. Below (in bold) are the answers to the exercise above: Practice in Using the Past Forms of Regular and Irregular Verbs. Answers From Black Boy, by Richard Wright One evening my mother told me that thereafter I would have to do the shopping for food. She took me to the corner store to show me the way. I was proud; I felt like a grownup. The next afternoon I looped the basket over my arm and went down the pavement toward the store. When I reached the corner, a gang of boys grabbed me, knocked me down, snatched the basket, took the money, and sent me running home in panic. That evening I told my mother what had happened, but she made no comment; she sat down at once, wrote another note, gave me more money, and sent me out to the grocery again. I crept down the steps and saw the same gang of boys playing down the street. I ran back into the house.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Forum on Executive Branch Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Forum on Executive Branch - Essay Example The timely and intelligent use of words expressing his concern towards the Americans and aboriginal people also plays a vital role in convincing the people with his rationale. For instance, while discussing Indian removal obliquely, the use of terms "physical comforts" and "moral improvements of the Indians" in context of the resources that will be provided to Indian after their removal simply convey that the President aims to preserve the security and wellbeing of the United States of the America. Moreover, at the very outset of his speech, he mentions the absence of danger from external foes due to the unexampled growth and prosperity of the country during his reign. This way, he successfully manages to grapple the attention of the people from the very start. In short, it is pertinent to say that his attempt to make his policies sound practically acceptable through the use of appropriate words and logical arguments is responsible for making this particular speech stand apart from

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

3_08 Employee Performance Appraisal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

3_08 Employee Performance Appraisal - Essay Example Create room for personal evaluation-it is good to come up with a blank document and ensure that employees continually rate themselves using the same procedure you will rate them. Majority will appreciate participating in the process. Show respect-it is good to send clear signals to each employee and tell them that the meeting is of great importance. Start documentation at an early stage and work at a good place so as to ensure that work runs smoothly Input much focus-treat the meeting like it’s a great business encounter. It is good to make sure that one does not come up with topics that tend to divert the attention of the general meeting in place. Social elements should not be mixed. Don’t wait-it is good for one to inform employees on anything that is pending rather than wait for things to happen. Ensure that all activities are well taken care of and nothing is left pending for the moment. Be careful on writings-only information that is relevant to the topics should be included in writing. Personal information should not be included in such kinds of documents as they may not be of help. Omissions should not be done on papers. Â  Avoid debating-it is good for one to keep controlling the meeting with a further reigning in the discussions that arise. A manager is supposed to have the final word in the workplace and ensure that work is running smoothly Do not do majority of talking-it is good to let employees do the talking so that one gets the desired kind of feedback from them. Letting them do the talking gives you the opportunity to get the desired feedback from them. Â  Give evaluation deadlines-it is good to handle situations in a more professional manner as a manager. It is good not to let employees comment on the appraisal document. Comments should be done on a separate sheet of

Saturday, November 16, 2019

Motorcycle segment in Germany Essay Example for Free

Motorcycle segment in Germany Essay Much of the demand for two-wheelers in Germany is concentrated on sporty vehicles, typically suited for leisure rather than daily transport. These vehicles make up nearly a third of the total new two-wheeler demand in the country. Enduro bikes – which usually have an engine size smaller than 650cc – are the second most popular motorcycle segment, occupying more than a fourth of the total market demand. Source: ACEM Market Shares Of Brands Total Market. It is therefore not surprising that the segment received a hit from the global economic crisis in 2009, resulting in more than 17% fewer motorcycles, or 137,045 units, being shifted compared with 2009, according to estimates from the German Motorcycle Association (IVM). Key players in the industry include Honda Motor, with a market share of more than 14%, followed by Yamaha Motor and BMW with respective market shares of 11. 9% and 11. 5% in 2009.  © Business Monitor International Ltd Page 48 Germany Autos Report Q1 2012 Segment News. No Recovery In Sight For Motorcycles Segment BMI has significantly revised down its outlook for motorcycle sales in Western Europe in view of growing concerns about weak economic growth in the key markets of Germany and France, while the large markets of Spain, Italy and Greece are performing worse than expected. Estimates from the European motorcycles association (ACEM) show that the market for motorcycles has contracted by almost a quarter since 2008 and we expect further contraction in 2012 as the region comes under the influence of widespread austerity measures. Although growth should return to positive territory from 2013, we see little likelihood of the market returning to pre-crisis levels at any time during the forecast period to 2016. Crisis Or Change Of Preference? Indeed, there is little optimism in the motorcycles segment, with sales for the first three quarters down more than 9% year-on-year (y-o-y), to 1. 23mn units, despite declines of 13% and 15% y-o-y in 2009 and 2010 respectively. The blame partly lies in a sharp reversal in demand from Germany and France, both of which were posting positive growth until H111. To a large extent, this is the outcome of the general use of motorcycles for leisure rather than a means of transport in the region. It is therefore not surprising that as consumer confidence wanes owing to the eurozone sovereign debt crisis, households feel less inclined to make non-essential purchases. All of this comes at a time when sales in Italy and Spain which together account for over 40% of all motorcycles sold in the EU are reporting declines of over 15. 6% y-o-y each. From Bad To Worse Europe Motorcycle Sales Growth (%chg, y-o-y) * BMI forecasts. Source: ACEM, BMI  © Business Monitor International Ltd Page 49 Germany Autos Report Q1 2012 We have accordingly revised down our 2011 sales forecast from a 2% y-o-y decline expected earlier to a much sharper 10. 5% decline. In 2012, we expect a clear divergence in motorcycle demand between the six markets. The likes of Germany, France and the UK are likely to return to positive growth, mostly helped by favourable base effects and relatively better economic conditions. Meanwhile, demand in Spain, Italy and Greece will be hit by strict austerity measures adopted by their respective governments, mass unemployment and a decrease in consumer wealth. In total, this will result in a further 0. 25% contraction in motorcycle demand in the region, making it the fifth consecutive year of contraction for the segment. Regulatory Costs Although we expect demand to grow thereafter, recovery will be very modest, with the market growing an average of just over 3% y-o-y between 2013 and 2016. Rising ownership rates and insurance costs coupled with an ageing population in the region will significantly dampen consumer interest in motorcycles. Far From Recovery Europe Motorcycle Sales: Historical Data and Forecast f = forecast. Source: ACEM, BMI Additionally, we expect the segment to face a slew of regulatory changes, all of which will lead to marked increases in motorcycle prices and will consequently mar growth. The European Commission (EC) is currently looking to improve technology in the sector and make it safer and more environmentally friendly. A policy aimed at gradually moving to stricter emission standards is likely to be put in place, with the Euro 3, Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards to be made compulsory by 2014, 2017 and 2020 respectively. Meanwhile, the ECs plans to increase safety requirements for motorcycles is most  © Business Monitor International Ltd Page 50 Germany Autos Report Q1 2012 likely to lead to the mandatory fitting of anti-lock braking systems in medium- and high-performance motorcycles and automatic headlamps in all L-category vehicles (comprising two- and three-wheel powered cycles, mopeds, motorcycles with and without side-cars, on-road quads and mini-cars). For a segment which will still be very fragile, such regulations will indeed be a spoiler.  © Business Monitor International Ltd Page 51 Copyright of Germany Autos Report is the property of Business Monitor International and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holders express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

Information Management Issues :: Internet Web Computers Essays

Information Management Issues Too Much Information? The core problem of information management seems to be overload: determining the existence and location of resources in the chaotic repository that is the Internet, trying to learn the nuances of different software, retrieving far too many hits. However, some people question whether the problem really is overload. It may actually be the multiplicity of communication channels. Unlike earlier eras, new technologies are not replacing but adding to the host of media choices (Gilster 1997). The Web has simply removed natural barriers between people and information they would otherwise never see, and information now comes directly at us from multiple directions. Unfortunately, most traditional information management practices are too linear and specific: they were pipes developed for a stream, not an ocean (Alesandrini 1992). Perhaps the issue is not too much information, but information that is not usable or meaningful. To master information you must understand the relationship between data, information, and knowledge: data are raw facts and figures, information is data organized into a meaningful context, and knowledge is organized data (i.e., information) that have been understood and applied. A resource such as the Internet requires the user to build content from its vast resources (Gilster 1997). People may perceive overload because the information they receive does not fit into their current mental models for understanding the world. A constructivist approach - interpreting new information in terms of existing knowledge structures and revising those structures accordingly - can help move those "analog" models into the digital world (ibid.). I've Got to Keep Up! The twin demons of speed and quantity create an artificial sense of urgency: with e-mail, voice mail, fax, and the Web, continuous streams of data are possible 24 hours per day at work, at home, and during the commute between. The consensus of many sources is to forget about keeping up. Focus instead on what you really need to know and for what purpose, and understand that the question will evolve as you gather information. Ideal information is current, timely, and sufficient for the task at hand, not necessarily "complete" (Lively 1996). The goal of information seeking should be finding the answers to personally meaningful questions. It's All on the Web. One myth rapidly taking hold is that the World Wide Web is a one-stop source for all information needs and the secret to information management is in knowing how to navigate it. Information Management Issues :: Internet Web Computers Essays Information Management Issues Too Much Information? The core problem of information management seems to be overload: determining the existence and location of resources in the chaotic repository that is the Internet, trying to learn the nuances of different software, retrieving far too many hits. However, some people question whether the problem really is overload. It may actually be the multiplicity of communication channels. Unlike earlier eras, new technologies are not replacing but adding to the host of media choices (Gilster 1997). The Web has simply removed natural barriers between people and information they would otherwise never see, and information now comes directly at us from multiple directions. Unfortunately, most traditional information management practices are too linear and specific: they were pipes developed for a stream, not an ocean (Alesandrini 1992). Perhaps the issue is not too much information, but information that is not usable or meaningful. To master information you must understand the relationship between data, information, and knowledge: data are raw facts and figures, information is data organized into a meaningful context, and knowledge is organized data (i.e., information) that have been understood and applied. A resource such as the Internet requires the user to build content from its vast resources (Gilster 1997). People may perceive overload because the information they receive does not fit into their current mental models for understanding the world. A constructivist approach - interpreting new information in terms of existing knowledge structures and revising those structures accordingly - can help move those "analog" models into the digital world (ibid.). I've Got to Keep Up! The twin demons of speed and quantity create an artificial sense of urgency: with e-mail, voice mail, fax, and the Web, continuous streams of data are possible 24 hours per day at work, at home, and during the commute between. The consensus of many sources is to forget about keeping up. Focus instead on what you really need to know and for what purpose, and understand that the question will evolve as you gather information. Ideal information is current, timely, and sufficient for the task at hand, not necessarily "complete" (Lively 1996). The goal of information seeking should be finding the answers to personally meaningful questions. It's All on the Web. One myth rapidly taking hold is that the World Wide Web is a one-stop source for all information needs and the secret to information management is in knowing how to navigate it.

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Public Speaking, Fears and Concerns.

Fears and Concerns about Public Speaking Fears and Concerns about Public Speaking There are many things in this world that one can have a fear of. One could be scared of bugs, the dark, or heights; but a major fear is the fear of having to speak in public. In everyday life public speaking is necessary, whether it be in a social or professional setting. My biggest fears and concerns about public speaking are being the center of attention, rejection, and failure. Being the center of attention can be very nerve racking.Are they judging the way I am dressed or the way I present myself? Are they paying attention to what I have to say? Or even, what will they think of me when I am done my presentation? Lastly, can I stop my nervous habits long enough to finish my presentation? These are all questions that run through my head that could easily distract me from actually presenting in the way I would like too. At some point everyone has to be concerned about rejection. This is also one of my main fears and concerns.The fact that not everyone will agree with, or accept, the point I am trying to portray. Maybe they just will not care or give me the time of day, and maybe even try to conflict with what I have to say. Then it will feel like I have wasted my time to come up with a presentation just to be ridiculed. No one ever thinks to themselves that they want to be a failure. My fears could distract me from delivering my presentation in the way I would like. I could stutter, forget what to say, or just not be as well prepared as I thought.This would all lead to a miserable presentation failure. Would I ever gain respect of my audience again? I do not want to be thought of as a failure. That is probably my worst concern about public speaking. With all kinds of fears and concerns about public speaking, it is difficult to think that one could get over them to go on to become a great public speaker. I would like to get over my fears so that I can continue through life with no concerns. I feel it will take time and practice but with the help of this class as well, I can be on my way to being a great public speaker.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

Literary Anlysis of Jane Eyre – Victorian Era

Many themes, styles, genres, and modes of Victorian Literature are reflected in the works of the Bronte Sisters', especially that of Jane Eyre. Common themes of victorian literature are shared with Jane Eyre. Food was a reoccurring theme of throughout many Victorian novels because of the hunger that many people faced in this time period. This theme is reflected in the vivid description of under nourishment at Lowood School in Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre. Another common theme was women's morality and sensuality.Before the publication of Jane Eyre, women were simple and genuine under the expectations of society, the â€Å"wife and mother from whom all morality sprang† (Lowes). After this novel was published, the â€Å"new woman† became predominant who was based off the main character, Jane, who was independent, strong, forward, and radical in the sense of marriage and contraception opinions. The theme of sex scandal goes along with women's morality and sensuality because it, also, went against the prior conservative social expectations and beliefs for women. This theme started to become common in victorian literature.An example of sex scandal is in Jane Eyre when Jane got involved with Rochester, her wealthy boss, and ended up marrying him. Jane Eyre is written in first-person from the point of view of Jane. The genre of Jane Eyre can be classified as many different types; Romance, Mystery, and Gothic Fiction. It can be considered a classic romantic novel because of the passionate relationship that Jane and Rochester form. It is a mystery in the sense that throughout the book, Jane suspects something about Rochester and his past based on the incident of Grace Pool accidently setting his bed on fire in a drunken state and not getting fired for it.She then discovers the secret of his past that he has a wife, Bertha, who has one mad and was the one who set his bed on fire. It is considered Gothic Fiction because of the supernatural and fantasy element s that Charlotte Bronte includes (http://www. shmoop. com/jane-eyre/literary-devices. html) Through Charlotte's unique writing style, she incorporates â€Å"fantasy elements in Jane Eyre through references to fairy tales, prophetic dreams, mythic imagery, and extraordinary plot twists,† (Shwingen).An example of the mythic imagery is shown through Charlotte's emphasis on the image of passion. Jane was always a passionate and emotional character since she was a child. Charlotte writes about Jane after her cousin hits her with the book, â€Å"my blood was still warm; the mood of the revolted slave was still bracing me with its bitter vigor. † The image of her warm blood and her intense anger compared to that of a revolted slave shows Jane's great emotion even as a child.This image is emphasized through imagery when Charlotte writes of Jane's feelings for Rochester as â€Å"fiery iron† and â€Å"blackness and burning†. These figurative images of a fire portra y to the reader the intense passion that Jane has for Rochester. Fire is another image that Charlotte writes about throughout the novel; â€Å"in the bedroom blaze which Jane saved Rochester from, in the language that both Rochester and Jane use in describing their emotions towards each other, and in the final fire that destroyed Thornfield Hall, crippled Rochester, and killed Bertha,† (Vaughon).In Vaughon's opinion, this imagery of fire and passion was Charlotte's way of emphasizing the unethical and sinful love that Jane and Rochester shared with each other based on the fire of hell. As said before, in Victorian times, this relationship would be considered scandalous not only based on the difference in their classes, but also because they believed in purity. Charlotte goes against the traditional beliefs with her imagery of passion and lust between Jane and Rochester. Charlotte's writing style is generally educated, complex, and emotion filled.Most of her sentences are cont ain numerous adjectives and sensual images. Her unique style may be overwhelming for some readers, but it's powerful and strong. The reader is able to identify with Jane Eyre as a character through the complex sentence structure that is filled with emotion and imagery. (http://reviewmaterials. tripod. com/english/jane_eyre. html) According to George P. Landow, Jane Eyre is divided into five distinct settings. The story starts off when Jane is a child living in her relative's, the Reed's, house in Gateshead Hall.Then she is sent to Lowood school and has many experiences there with Miss. Temple, Helen Burns, and Mr. Brocklehurst. After eight years in boarding school, she lives at Thornfield as a governess to Adele. This is where she falls in love with her boss, Rochester. Then she moves out after he discovery of Bertha, Rochester's mad wife. She is then taken into the Moor House by her cousins, the Rivers. In the end, she is reunited with Rochester at the Ferndean Manor. Each setting of the book has it's own unique mood in strong relation to the characters present at each place. For example,Robert B.Martin points out that the setting of Thornfield is much more personal than the two preceding settings at Gateshead and Lowood because of the connection Jane makes to Rochester and the connection Rochester has to Thornfield (George P. Landow). In chapter 11, Mrs. Fairfax first makes mention to Rochester when she says, â€Å"Great houses and fine grounds require the presence of the proprietor†. Because Mrs. Fairfax said this, Jane felt as though it was not alive unless Rochester was present which is strongly connected to how Jane felt lonely and down because when he was not there.This connection between character and setting reflects the complex mood of Thornfield depending on whether Rochester is there or not. When he is away on a trip, the mood is somber and desolate because the reader can understand and feel the longing that Jane has for Rochester and the lo neliness she feels in the huge, empty house. When he is there, the mood changes to exciting and intimate because of the strong feelings that Jane has toward him and the liveliness that she associates with the house. Charlotte Bronte does a great job with reflecting the characters in Jane Eyre to the reader through her writing.One very unique and interesting character is Bertha, Rochester's insane wife. The Victorians during the nineteenth century had a fascination with health, sometimes greater than that of politics, religion, and Darwinism. They believed â€Å"an interdependent mind-body connection gained strength, and many people saw physical and mental health as being interrelated rather than separate entities,† (Sonja Mayer). According to Mayer, these attitudes of the time are reflected in Bertha's character through her mental illness and the physical threat she puts on Rochester.Compared to Jane, Bertha is her opposite and portrayed to the reader as a monster. Rochester â€Å"describes her as having ‘red balls' for eyes, a ‘mask' instead of a face, and ‘bulk' instead of an attractive form like Jane,† (Sonja Mayer). Jane is strong in body and mind. She endured the unhealthy conditions at Lowood where many students had died and survived through cold and hunger when she had ran away from Thornfield and lived outside. Her mental strength is shown through her courage as a child with her evil aunt, bullying cousin, and hypocritical head master.She stayed true to herself and motivated to be successful as a woman in this time despite the difficult situations these people had created for her. In contrast, Bertha is portrayed by Rochester as having â€Å"gone mad†. The Victorians would view this as a lack of mental strength. She, also, poses a threat to Rochester physically by her acts such as setting his bed on fire while he was sleeping, lunging at him and Jane in the room, and actually succeeding in burning down the house a t the the end of the book. Rochester is depicted as the ideal hero of the Victorian times.He is very romantic and charming which adds to the gothic style of this novel (Lowes). Despite his charm, there was much controversy over Rochester's character in Victorian times. English law at the time said that a man whose wife became insane could not get a divorce. To deal with his problem, he put his wife into confinement, locked in a room with a servant to care for her. He then proceeded to almost partake in bigamy by marrying Jane. Many Victorians of the time questioned why Jane would ever go back to such a man. (http://reviewmaterials. tripod. om/english/jane_eyre. html) The character of Jane isn't the traditional heroine of the time. In many romantic novels of the Victorian era, the heroine was beautiful. Jane is described by Charlotte as â€Å"simple and plain†. She also differs from the traditional heroine in her strength as a woman. Charlotte created a woman character that wa s equal to the male character. Jane is not equal in status or class, but in emotional strength and maturity. This went against society's beliefs of the time because Victorians traditionally believed that women were not capable of strong.

Thursday, November 7, 2019

Impact social class in consumer behavior Essays

Impact social class in consumer behavior Essays Impact social class in consumer behavior Essay Impact social class in consumer behavior Essay Brief summary on Social Class Impact on Consumer behavior in Peru The classes Status: to be understood as the position of the individual within a social system, as perceived by members of society. The status depends not only on the social class to which they belong but individual characteristics. The social class structure are generally divided into five groups: high, medium high, medium, medium low, low. The profiles of each of these classes indicate that socioeconomic differences are reflected n differences in attitudes, leisure activities and consumption habits. Research has revealed difference between the class as to the habits of clothing, home decor, telephone use, use of leisure time, preferably purchase locations and saving habits, spending and credit use. This can be used strategically for marketing. Studies of consumer dissatisfaction reveal a relationship between the type of problems posed by the consumer and social class. Each society establishes subjectively set of values ND ideals reflected in the types of the members thereof, that apply to that ideal are respected and have prestige. In this aspect, the possession of certain products are considered in many cases as a status symbol , like the automobile , the type and location of housing, etc.. In complex societies where wealth determines the status, possessions become an indicator of the value of wealth; here in Peru occurs almost the same. However, there has been a weakening of the traditional symbols of status, cause with the advances in technology and communication, has increased the desire and the availability of material goods in all classes. The middle class is refined tastes holding the luxury goods market. The symbols and not necessarily an indicator of social class, so the upper classes adopt other symbols, and these vary by geographic region, for example, in the mountains of Peru, wealth can be measured by the amount of land or livestock that one possesses. Social classes are multidimensional: People often associate the money with the idea of social class, but also the occupancy generally provides indication of the class to which it belongs, since certain occupations enjoy greater prestige. Here in Peru, the occupations that create this image are administrators, industrial engineers, miners, some lawyers, among others. The house also has considered another important indicator of social class, especially the installation site.

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

The Probability of Rolling a Yahtzee

The Probability of Rolling a Yahtzee Yahtzee is a dice game involving a combination of chance and strategy. A player begins their turn by rolling five dice. After this roll, the player may decide to re-roll any number of the dice. At most, there are a total of three rolls for each turn. Following these three rolls, the result of the dice is entered onto a score sheet. This score sheet contains different categories, such as a full house or large straight.  Each of the categories is satisfied with different combinations of dice. The most difficult category to fill-in is that of a Yahtzee. A Yahtzee occurs when a player rolls five of the same number. Just how unlikely is a Yahtzee? This is a problem that is much more complicated than finding probabilities for two or even three dice. The main reason is that there are many ways to obtain five matching dice during three rolls. We can calculate the probability of rolling a Yahtzee by using the combinatorics formula for combinations, and by breaking the problem into several mutually exclusive cases. One Roll The easiest case to consider is obtaining a Yahtzee immediately on the first roll. We will first look at the probability of rolling a particular Yahtzee of five twos, and then easily extend this to the probability of any Yahtzee. The probability of rolling a two is 1/6, and the outcome of each die is independent of the rest. Thus the probability of rolling five twos is (1/6) x (1/6) x (1/6) x (1/6) x (1/6) 1/7776. The probability of rolling five of a kind of any other number is also 1/7776. Since there are a total of six different numbers on a die, we multiply the above probability by 6. This means that the probability of a Yahtzee on the first roll is 6 x 1/7776 1/1296 0.08 percent. Two Rolls If we roll anything other than five of a kind of the first roll, we will have to re-roll some of our dice to try to get a Yahtzee. Suppose that our first roll has four of a kind. we would re-roll the one die that doesn’t match and then get a Yahtzee on this second roll. The probability of rolling a total of five twos in this way is found as follows: On the first roll, we have four twos. Since there is a probability 1/6 of rolling a two, and 5/6 of not rolling a two, we multiply (1/6) x (1/6) x (1/6) x (1/6) x (5/6) 5/7776.Any of the five dice rolled could be the non-two. We use our combination formula for C(5, 1) 5 to count how many ways we can roll four twos and something that is not a two.We multiply and see that the probability of rolling exactly four twos on the first roll is 25/7776.On the second roll, we need to calculate the probability of rolling one two. This is 1/6. Thus the probability of rolling a Yahtzee of twos in the above way is (25/7776) x (1/6) 25/46656. To find the probability of rolling any Yahtzee in this way is found by multiplying the above probability by 6 because there are six different numbers on a die. This gives a probability of 6 x 25/46656 0.32 percent. But this is not the only way to roll a Yahtzee with two rolls. All of the following probabilities are found in much the same way as above: We could roll three of a kind, and then two dice that match on our second roll. The probability of this is 6 x C(5 ,3) x (25/7776) x (1/36) 0.54 percent.We could roll a matching pair, and on our second roll three dice that match. The probability of this is 6 x C(5, 2) x (100/7776) x (1/216) 0.36 percent.We could roll five different dice, save one die from our first roll, then roll four dice that match on the second roll. The probability of this is (6!/7776) x (1/1296) 0.01 percent. The above cases are mutually exclusive. This means that to calculate the probability of rolling a Yahtzee in two rolls, we add the above probabilities together and we have is approximately 1.23 percent. Three Rolls For the most complicated situation yet, we will now examine the case where we use all three of our rolls to obtain a Yahtzee. We could do this in several ways and must account for all of them. The probabilities of these possibilities are calculated below: The probability of rolling four of a kind, then nothing, then matching the last die on the last roll is 6 x C(5, 4) x (5/7776) x (5/6) x (1/6) 0.27 percent.The probability of rolling three of a kind, then nothing, then matching with the correct pair on the last roll is 6 x C(5, 3) x (25/7776) x (25/36) x (1/36) 0.37 percent.The probability of rolling a matching pair, then nothing, then matching with the correct three of a kind on the third roll is 6 x C(5, 2) x (100/7776) x (125/216) x (1/216) 0.21 percent.The probability of rolling a single die, then nothing matching this, then matching with the correct four of a kind on the third roll is (6!/7776) x (625/1296) x (1/1296) 0.003 percent.The probability of rolling three of a kind, matching an additional die on the next roll, followed by matching the fifth die on the third roll is 6 x C(5, 3) x (25/7776) x C(2, 1) x (5/36) x (1/6) 0.89 percent.The probability of rolling a pair, matching an additional pair on the next roll, followe d by matching the fifth die on the third roll is 6 x C(5, 2) x (100/7776) x C(3, 2) x (5/216) x (1/6) 0.89 percent. The probability of rolling a pair, matching an additional die on the next roll, followed by matching the last two dice on the third roll is 6 x C(5, 2) x (100/7776) x C(3, 1) x (25/216) x (1/36) 0.74 percent.The probability of rolling one of a kind, another die to match it on the second roll, and then a three of a kind on the third roll is (6!/7776) x C(4, 1) x (100/1296) x (1/216) 0.01 percent.The probability of rolling one of a kind, a three of a kind to match on the second roll, followed by a match on the third roll is (6!/7776) x C(4, 3) x (5/1296) x (1/6) 0.02 percent.The probability of rolling one of a kind, a pair to match it on the second roll, and then another pair to match on the third roll is (6!/7776) x C(4, 2) x (25/1296) x (1/36) 0.03 percent. We add all of the above probabilities together to determine the probability of rolling a Yahtzee in three rolls of the dice. This probability is 3.43 percent. Total Probability The probability of a Yahtzee in one roll is 0.08 percent, the probability of a Yahtzee in two rolls is 1.23 percent and the probability of a Yahtzee in three rolls is 3.43 percent. Since each of these are mutually exclusive, we add the probabilities together. This means that the probability of obtaining a Yahtzee in a given turn is approximately 4.74 percent. To put this into perspective, since 1/21 is approximately 4.74 percent, by chance alone a player should expect a Yahtzee once every 21 turns. In practice, it may take longer as an initial pair may be discarded to roll for something else, such as a straight.

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Poverty in the U.S Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Poverty in the U.S - Research Paper Example First of all, let us understand how poverty has risen in the U.S. and how it affects the poor. Seccombe (384-393) asserts that poverty can be defined as having an inadequate income that can make a family stay â€Å"below the poverty line†. In the United States, poverty is concretely defined in dollar figures by the Social Security Administration. By determining the amount of money needed to survive on food, and then multiplying that number by three, the Social Security Administration sets the poverty line. For example, if the SSA decided that the amount of money needed to sustain a survivable diet during a year was $4,000, then it would set the poverty line at $12,000. Thus, any individuals whose income was less than this amount for a year would be considered to be living in poverty. According to Flik and Praag (311-330), poverty line is essential for determining who receives welfare benefits in U.S. Poverty does not seem to be an evenly distributed social problem. In America, African Americans and Latinos have, by far, the largest poverty rate. Many factors such as poor wages for women and the increase of single-woman parented families have caused an increase in the percentage of women among the poor. elderly, however, fill a much smaller percentage as they receive benefits as social security. Macionis (216) concluded that in 2003, the government classified 12.5 percent of the U.S. population as poor, which makes 35.9 million of men, women and children. Research suggests that the home environment adds to poverty because most homes that look in disrepair mean that the family living inside might not have the income to fix things. When a family is in the poverty zone they feel bad and inadequate, which can make them unwilling to ask for help (Brooks-Gunn & Duncan). This can be harmful to children because they do not have a say when the adults need help. Poverty is an unkind and brutal way for children to live. It manifests in physical, emotional and social ways. Impoverished children have social, emotional and behavioral problems due to poor health and serious mental health problems stemming from the persistent poverty level in which they live. Serious health problems come with poverty, such as preventable diseases like Influenza, Measles, malnutrition and AIDS due to lack of proper health care. Public assistance offered in most states does not cover all that the poor children need to live a normal lifestyle. Now, we describe how poverty is beneficial for the rich of the society despite its negative outcomes related to the poor. According to the sociologist, Herbert Gans (20-24), occupations and professions like criminology, social work, journalism, and public health exist with the help of existence of poverty. Gans has listed manifold functions of poverty that are beneficial to the rich of the society. The dirty work in the society gets done with the help of the poor who work at low wages and indecent salaries. The poor help in subs idizing the economy because they pay taxes, buy cheap products and go for low-cost services that are just ignored by the wealthy community. The existence of poverty acts as a guarantee for the rich people’s status, because if there would be no poor, there would be no identification left for the rich. The rich people give charity to the poor

Thursday, October 31, 2019

Arab Discussion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Arab Discussion - Essay Example The passive approach is necessary because of the role of culture as an integral factor to people’s quality of life and as well a barrier to nursing care. Even though some cultural practices undermine provision of care, members of the society are informed of benefits of culture to their well-being and a contrary approach may be a threat to their perspective to health care. A tolerant approach with understanding and persuasion will therefore offer Mrs. Nasser, who has a cultural reason against the physical examination, an opportunity to consider alternative approaches to testing the patient towards efficient treatment. Persuasion can also help in establishing the need for examination towards effective treatment (Andrews and Boyle, 2008; Kulwicki, 2013). Culturally congruent strategies that may be effective in addressing Mrs. Nasser’s needs Strategies towards cultural competence identify congruency towards meeting Mrs. Nasser’s needs to preserve her cultural orienta tion and to cure her ill daughter. Cultural awareness is one of the culturally congruent strategies that that may be effective in resolving the issues towards the needs and being informed of the sensitivity to young girls’ virginity in the Arab culture is an example that could help the nurse in handling the situation by informing the nurse of potential obstacle to care. It involves being informed of a society’s cultural constructs for a suitable approach to providing care to culturally sensitive clients. Cultural awareness would inform the nurse of the negative opinion towards physical examination of young girls’ genitals and ensure a less controversial approach. The nurse could similarly be informed of the society’s sensitivity towards young girls’ virginity and explain the fact that examination by a female nurse would not threaten the cultural perspective. Establishing a set of strategies towards cultural cohesion is another culturally congruent strategy that may be effective in addressing the client’s needs. This strategy equips a nurse with alternative approaches to integrate the client’s culture with necessary nursing practices towards meeting the needs (Andrews and Boyle, 2008; Dreachslin, Gilbert and Malone, 2012). This strategy can be developed from a nurse’s experience with Nasser’s culture and through constructs of cultural competence approach such as â€Å"cultural knowledge, cultural skill, cultural encounters, and cultural desire† (Votroubek and Tobacco, 2010, p. 579). Cultural sensitivity and intelligence, from the competencies, would also help the nurse in selecting available strategies towards managing Mrs. Nasser’s cultural fears and agreeing on a suitable approach to testing the girl. In applying cultural sensitivity, for example, the nurse should understand the Arab culture’s sensitivity to young girls’ virginity and the extent to which the society can sacrifice to protect the cultural observation apply incorporate this in building Nasser’s confidence that her daughter’s virginity would not be compromised (Votroubek and Tobacco, 2010). Ensuring that Mrs. Nasser’s concerns are addressed and Samia receive appropriate care The nurse can ensure that Nasser’s concerns are addressed and Samia receive appropriate care by understanding the involved cultural barrier to the proposed care approach, identifying

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Case study analysis and continuous professional development Essay

Case study analysis and continuous professional development - Essay Example Organizational contextual factors Sonoco Products Company is a global packaging company that was developed in 1899 in Hartsville, South Carolina. Major James Coker established the company and his main target was to make paper cone used to hold yarn in the textile industry. The company kept on making paper cones till it became a leading paper cone industry, experiencing competition from other cone producing companies. This led to its expansion and it started manufacturing packages till it became the largest packing industry in the world (Thomas, Groysberg, and Reavis, 2008). The company proposed a new organizational restructuring that would suit the function cost by at least 20%, this is for the reason that, the company had been highly taxed due to the high cost it was experiencing, so the company managed to increase the sales by 14% by reducing expenses with the increase in shareholders. The organization established a new organizational model; this was to improve the top growth in im proving the company’s sales to compete with companies around the world. The consumer packaging department was to check the packaging style to meet the demands of the customers around the world. This strategy was a rethinking strategy of certain company structures like the human resources. Under the HR every manager managed talents within each of her or his division (Kotelnikov, 2006). The managing director developed policies for performance, management, compensation, development and successful management. These polices advocated for the HR to increase general manager accountability for talent management, to distribute HR talent management and to distribute more, to optimize HR talent ability to give customized ability to the customers. These strategies are only effective if implemented by serious working staff members within the organization (Fort and Salin, 2001). The Sonoco Company established in 1889 in California was a textual industry and gradually developed into a consu mer packaging consumer industry. This growth occurred manly through acquisition in 1990 where the company made 60% acquisition around the world. The company occupied two segments the packaging segments and the consumer packaging. The industrial segment which served as the textile industry paper industry and film industry employed around 11000 employees and made 55% revenue to the company. The consumer packaging had a range of 6000 employees and made high revenue to the company with its products. Some of the company’s products are Gillette, Krafts, Nestle and Procter as well as Gamble. The cultural background of the company is friendly, collaborative, and ethical and team oriented. Most of these employees have been in the organization for over twenty years and enjoyed working with the members of the community. During the late 1990s there was a fall in the stock and change was a required in the structure of the organization to solve the problem (Mission statement - Sonoco, 2009 ). In the early 1990, the packaging companies generated around 40 billion and the consumer industry represented about 70% countrywide distribution. Paper industry accounted for 30% and film industry accounte

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Social Work Intervention | Race and Poverty

Social Work Intervention | Race and Poverty CHAPTER FOUR Evidence suggests that contemporary social work practice is faced with the dilemma of how to direct its efforts primarily to the poor and needy in the UK and at the same time to engage in social welfare policy to help promote social change. According to Okitikpi and Aymers (2003) social work professionals working with African refugees are often frustrated and poorly resourced to manage families who suffer from difficult lifestyle experiences due to poverty and social exclusions. Also Okitikpi and Aymer (2003) are of the view that problems of poverty and working in partnership with African families alleged of child abuse or maltreatment would be better and easier managed should social workers engage in open direct interventions. Bernard Gupta (2008) highlights the difficulties social workers face when assessing and making interventions regarding African children and their families whose cultures differ from the majority white population in the UK. Therefore the argument that the miss ion of social work is to promote social change and alleviate poverty in society by engaging with social welfare policy rather than interventions at family levels is currently the pivot of strong debate. The term social work intervention as defined by IFSW: Usually describes work undertaken with individuals, families, groups and communities. In this context the term is to cover the use of social work knowledge and skills when using it within a social care organisation to facilitate the provision of services and practice consistent with the Codes of Practice and with standards of service and practice, and to promote social inclusion and life opportunities of people using the services IFSW (2000). Types of Social Work Intervention According to Elde-Woodward (2002), there are three fundamental methods or stages of intervention. The first method of intervention, Elde-Woodward describes as macro social work intervention which involves directing social work practice to society or communities as a whole. This type of social work practice includes policy forming and advocacy on a national or international scale. The second method of intervention is mezzo social work practice, which involves working with agencies, small organizations, and other small groups directly or indirectly related to social work practice to make policies or developing programs for a particular community. The third method of intervention is the Micro social work practice which involves offering direct service to individuals and families. Hartnett et al (2005) research on the role perceptions of social workers and social work students shows that only very few actually engage in policy-practice that focus on social policy formulation and advocacy . There are a wide variety of activities that falls under the category of social work practice and social work professionals works in many different settings of employment. Basically social workers engage in clinical practice, find themselves working with individuals or families. However, social workers who serve in community practice are engage with the mezzo or macro stages of social work. Spratt et al (2004) findings shows that social work intervention with individuals or families is the most popular and effective method of intervention that bring about social change in individual lives. Social work intervention aims to help children or families to identify, and to establish appropriate relationships with social workers that will enhance their livelihood. The purpose of the intervention is diverse and ranges from increasing life skills or changing behaviour to increase life options and to cope with changing life situations and transitions (Smale, Tuson and Statham, 2000). Identifying and acknowledging child abuse Many schools of thought argue that social workers could assist families living in poverty to identify issues of child abuse by showing empathy, establishing working relationships and engaging in appropriate interventions. In any of the situations there are a number of factors making African families living in poverty to be alleged of maltreating or abusing their children. Some of these factors are poor parenting practices, lack of knowledge about the laws pertaining in the country of residence and ethno-centric discrimination and racism (Elder-Woodward, 2002). Child abuse cases referred by other agencies for the attention of local authority social services may result in interventions that usually draw children into child protection system. Such interventions do not always consider the financial and social situations such parents find themselves, but used by social work professionals in manner to comply with government legislation and the responsibility of protecting or safeguarding c hildren. For instance, parents living on meagre income hardly could sustain the family financial commitments, or such parents may not consider the legal implications of living children alone in the house for work, as often such children are seen wandering the streets or become school dropouts due to poor parental care and support. Social workers distinctive contribution for families living in extreme poverty and experiencing social exclusion is o employ empathy, communication and relationship skills to help identify and to acknowledge issues of child abuse (Spratt et al 2004). Intervention within the social work process is not a static, snapshot or a holistic process whereby social workers arrives at definitive answer to protect vulnerable children from further harm. However, the fundamental interpersonal skills require of social workers is the key to identifying the possible causes of child abuse or maltreatment in a family setting, through the building of appropriate relationship with the families and collaborating with other interested agencies (Lloyd and Taylor, 1990). Most often than not social workers take ethnocentric and prejudice approach at the initial contact with African families accused of child abuse and consequently arrive at a judgemental decision. With the right relationship with African families involve in child abuse cases social work professionals are positive to understand the needs of such families and what type of intervention is appropriate to help address their problems. Intervention skills used by social workers fits most easily i nto the traditional frameworks in which social work is usually taught to qualifying students, but less easily recognized as intervention by most social workers once in practice. Arguably, the core skills of intervention have not been grasped in its entity practising social workers and hence are not consciously transferred across situations where is most needed. Intervening child abuse Social work involves intervening children and familys situation and problems through appraisal of what information is available and what information is gathered from the family after initially assessing the familys financial and social status, with collaboration with other organisations and professionals working with the family. Many authors argue that social worker should lead families alleged of child abuse through the intervention process, highlighting and explaining the importance of working together to agree on the most appropriate intervention needed to bring social change. Furthermore, social workers use a range of knowledge, models and frameworks to decide what method of intervention is needed to achieve the desired result. To ensure that collated information from all quarters leads to informed intervention, social workers need to establish working relationships of trust with African families and other professionals. They must be able to understand the socio-economic status a nd parenting practices of African families, through their own knowledge and skill, or by drawing on that of others. Social workers recognition and understanding of parents behavioural patterns, complicated with poverty, understanding of diverse cultures and building of good working relationships are vital to successful interventions. There is evidence in the literature to suggest that social workers and other related professionals have difficulty fostering good working relationship with black African families alleged of child abuse cases as such families have no trust in the child protection system. Therefore social workers need to develop the requisite skills and behaviours to understand the problems of African families living under the poverty line, and who may have little or no knowledge of the child protection system in the UK. In recognition of the difficulties inherent in deploying effective interventions the Department of Health introduced the Framework for the Assessment of Children in Need and their Families ( DH 2000). Macdonald (2002) notes the pitfalls that arise when conducting assessments leading to social work intervention. It is not just simple to follow a framework setting out the areas to be investigated, as social workers need to exercise professional judgement and be alert to unconscious bias which may creep into the work, distorting assessments and the degree of interventions. Social Work Intervention and environmental influences Bernard Gupta (2008) literature review on black African children and child protection system emphasize the adverse effects of poverty and social exclusion on parenting capacity and childrens development, which have been identified as a major factor in most families involved in care proceedings (Brophy et al, 2003). African families are proportionally more likely to live in poverty than majority whites in Britain as many undertake low-income paid jobs (Kyambi, 2005), have their rights to support services withdrawn under section 17 of the 1989 Children Act, (Kholi, 2006) and income, employment opportunities and access to support services are determined by their immigration and asylum status (Bernard Gupta, 2008). The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, recognises the need to protect children who experience a deprived childhood due to families living in poverty, and requires governments to ensure all children have an adequate standard of living as a basic right. The UN recognizes that deprivation during childhood undermines the fundamental rights which children, as well as adults, should enjoy, including access to key services such as health, education and social services (Monteith McLaughlin, 2005). Available evidence shows that poverty and social deprivation during childhood has adverse effects on children developments and limits their capacity to reach full potential and will perpetuate social inequalities across generations within populations. The Labour government pledge to reducing poverty in the country was a step forward to achieve social change among families, but did not explicitly define the target groups that are mainly living in extreme poverty. The Labour governments anti poverty strategy involves policies to increase the incomes of poor families by improving child-related benefits and tax credits and the introduction of a national minimum wage. The governments Sure Start initiative and the National Childcare Strategy in the UK provide affordable childcare provision for working parents. Moreover, the publication of the document Every Child Matters set outs the government approach to the wellbeing of children and young people (McLaughlin Monteith 2005). The sure start initiative provides a lot of support to parents struggling to care for their children, but the limited number of branches across the country only seems to assist the majority white families. Bradshaw (2001) and Stewart Hill (2005) argue that the go vernments child poverty reduction strategies may be easier to achieve in short-term basis but not achieving much in long term. The main official working document for many British child protection social workers is the Department of Health (DoH), 1988 document, Protecting Children: A Guide for Social Workers undertaking a Comprehensive Assessment, but has its limitations when working with black African families (Chands, 1999). It is arguable to say that taking children into public care because their parents are not capable of providing adequate care may be due to the withdrawal of all support services in accordance with section 9 of the 2004 Asylum an Immigration Act (Kelly Meldgaard, 2005). Evidence shows that basic physical care that families are expected to provide for children becomes limited by inadequate housing, unemployment, poverty, and social exclusion particularly with black African families living in poverty. It is argued that any assessment process that reflects the inadequate provision of care as the failure of black people and as indicator of child abuse rather than the effects of racial inequality is in itself racist. Furthermore, as black African families are disadvantaged in many circumstances, it is arguable that they will face higher levels of risk from the harmful effects of inappropriate social work intervention and misjudgement (Chands, 1999). Social Work Intervention and parental behaviours The history of over-representation of black children in the child protection system, according to Chand (1999) dates back to the 1960s. Research shows that black children are quick to enter into the child protection system than their white counterparts, for reasons such as parenting behaviours, culture and social and economic problems. Many research work relating to the differences in child-rearing and poverty in the UK show that black African families are often at risk of being stereotyped as not capable of parenting children in the most appropriate way. Therefore, social workers have a responsibility to understand issues framing the experiences of African children at risk of significant harm, ad not to create the general impression that all African families are not capable. According to Chand (1999) despite the very obviousness of the diversity of childhoods, we live and work in a society which tends to assume that there is just one kind of childhood that is normal and ordinary (Rogers, 1989, p. 97). The issues of punishment, parental behaviour and discipline, complicated with poverty are controversial concepts among black African families living in the UK, which often draw them into the arena of child protection system. According to Bernard Gupta (2008), the literature that exists focuses on the African families where their parenting is deemed to be below the threshold of what is considered proper. This dysfunction within African families can risk reproducing stereotypes of this group as deficient, thus fostering a pathological viewpoint of African family relationship. It is widely accepted that black African family relationships with white social workers working with them, is always strained with mistrust and non-acceptance. Available research shows that (Chands, 1999), different child-rearing practices, as a result of socio-economic status permeates different cultures and social workers working with families of different cultural values and beliefs may experience difficulty i n understanding what parental behaviours are acceptable and not acceptable. Thus, to distinguish whether a particular child-rearing practice is deviant to societal norm, social workers will always have to dwell on the knowledge acquired from both formal and informal training, experiences and their moral judgements, to employ the most appropriate intervention process applicable to the family. Bernard Gupta (2008) claims that African family relationships, like those of many minority ethnic groups, are often constructed differently from the conventional nuclear family model that exist in the majority culture in contemporary Britain. Cultural values and more importantly poverty influence the lives of many black African children and their families involved in the child protection system (Thorburn et al, 2005). In order for social workers to establish a good working relationship when working with black African families and children living in poverty, Chands (1999) argues that it is param ount for social workers to have a sound knowledge and understanding of what is acceptable and unacceptable parental behaviours within the cultural background of the families. If not, social workers may intervene in alleged child abuse cases inappropriately. There are a few data on the impact of poverty and cultural values in influencing expectations, motivations, roles and approaches to parenting and perceiving what constitutes harmful behaviours (Barn et al., 2006). It is debatable to define in specific terms how children should be discipline from the view points of parents and professionals and what type and degree of punishments are deem appropriate for a misbehaving child. Barn et al (2006) findings show that African families do not punish their children any different from the majority white families and that there is no evidence of using more severe physical punishment (Thorburn et al., 2005). However, research shows that working-class white families presumably employ more smacking, which is a form of physical punishment, in an attempt to manage children behaviours and corporal punishment is still practise in schools outside the state sector, which are mainly occupied by middle-class children. Yet in general, as the vast majority o f African parents use physical punishment as a form of discipline to manage their children behaviours, they are inevitably alleged of abusing their children (Chands, 1999). These are related to their cultural background, their socio-economic status, and their own personalities (Phillips Dutt 2000). For example, Ellis (2006) maintained that in African culture there is little fondling and kissing of infants and any kind of caressing stops when the child is toddling. Black Africans express their affection and love in a different way, through good physical attention, such as bathing, skin-care and hair-care (Chands, 1999). This illustrates the necessity to understand different cultures in order to guard against misinterpretations of parenting behaviour, and to ask why a black African parent may not be showing any obvious signs of affection towards their child. Moreover, the unrealistic expectation by white social workers should be understandably measured in the light of the parents anx iety about their childrens future considering the poverty levels of many black African children living the United Kingdom (Beranard Gupta 2006). With regard to responsibility and independence, many research shows that most white social workers seem to adopt euro-centric approach when working with black African children and their families (Chands, 1999). In effect black African children are either not protected because they are seen to be able to cope with situations not deemed appropriate for white children, or where black African children are not taking on similar responsibilities to their white counterparts they are deemed to be at risk of abuse or deprivation (Chands, 1999). For instance, the issue of older siblings caring for younger ones in the case with many black African families may be decisive in the workers assessment of risk of significant harm to the child. According to Chands (1999) there is the need to question why this should be when a high level of both responsibility and independence by the older sibling can be clearly demonstrated. It must be emphasized therefore that although child abuse occurs in all races and cultures, workers must guard against viewing suspected abuse through the norms and values of their own background. A further point is that black African families unwillingness or resistance to the assessment and intervention process employ by social workers working on alleged child abuse cases should not be seen as evidence of guilt, as the system may be new to them or a good working relationship is not there. Finally, Chands (1999) explains that in order to make the intervention process fairer for all black African families, it is necessary for majority white workers and institutions to understand that most black African parents may be less aware of child protection procedures, may be living in poverty, and their experience in the UK make them more susceptible to the child protection system. Some researchers have identified the importance of understanding how poverty complicate different cultural values, which in many cases explains the motivation behind parental actions when managing unacceptable behaviours of their children (Barn et al, 2006) and in their research on normative parenting there is no significant differences between ethnic groups with regard to physical punishment of children (Bernard Gupta, 2008). CHAPTER FIVE IMPLICATIONS FOR SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE There is some evidence in the literature to suggest that social workers and other professionals struggle to manage the complex needs and social circumstances of many African families (Bernard Gupta, 2008). According to Hayes Spratt (2008), social workers are more engage with child protection work, but not in way that is readily understood by those who legislate, set policy and measure performance. Social workers may lack the necessary tools to adequately differentiate borderline cases from high-risk cases, couple with poor collaboration with other professionals, classifying certain parenting practices as politically and ethically unacceptable and their own personal cultural values, they turn to route all borderline child abuse cases through the child protection processes. It might seem paradoxical that in recent years social workers, who are seen as the force for conformity, are frequently criticized for acting more in the interests of society than in the interests of service users . However, when social workers relate more with families than just aiming to achieve governments target, they build good working relationships with those they serve and help liberate them from oppression, poverty and social deprivation. Thus, social workers engaging more with methods of intervention which liberate children and their families from poverty, deprivation and social exclusion are really working to the principles and ethics of social work practice as defined by IFSW in contemporary Britain. Social work professionals almost always draw exclusively on sociology and political science knowledge base, believing that individuals can be wholly human only within the context of a benign environment and a just social order. Evidence shows that changing the social system of African families who suffer oppression through poverty and social exclusion by empowering them, not only means liberating them from social injustice, but also promoting family dignity and happiness. According to Bernard Gupta (2008) the poverty and social circumstances experience by many African families pose challenges for parents and children, as well as social work professionals working to safeguard and promote children welfare. Therefore, it is the requirement of the social workers to consider African families poverty and social circumstances before deciding on what intervention process will most help change their life. Recent governments efforts to change the objective social work from perhaps overemphasi zes on child protection agenda to a more preventative approach in alleged child abuse cases, have not entirely favoured African families living in poverty who are accuse of being deficient in their child-rearing behaviours. Social workers invariably experience the dilemma of choosing between directing efforts to child welfare process or child protection process and not see children suffer further abuse under the context of poverty. The broader development of the new theoretical perspectives based on systems theory will assist social work professionals working with children and African families to consider a more specific view of their roles and to help develop effective relationships with African families with the view of understanding their individual, emotional as well as social needs. A lack of good relationship with African families will adversely impact on social workers ability to understand their parenting behaviours so as to employ the appropriate method of intervention (Bernard Gupta, 2008). There are four main reasons for the need for a new perspective. Policy changes resulting in a change in method of intervention The policy environment to which social work practice relates continues to change to bring about the necessary social change. According to Platt (2006) persistent demands on social workers from the government and including inadequate staff, the bureaucracy and central government targets, and policies on refugees and asylum seekers, creates difficulty for social work to offer a wide range of family support services. Research shows that many African families may benefit more when they are routed away from child protection system towards child welfare services (Hayes Spratt, 2008). However, the governments response to Lord Lamings Report in Every Child Matters following the death of Victoria Climbie, has strengthen child protection and increase the number of cases routed through child welfare processes. Therefore it is important for social workers to subject parenting practices influenced by poverty to thorough scrutiny during assessment process to help achieve better outcomes for Afric an children. Poverty can create forms of disempowerment for children when it is used to justify parental behaviours and practices that violate their right (Bernard Gupta, 2008). Further to this point, social workers sometimes face resistance when assessing parenting problems, and more importantly their judgements about what should be consider as significant harm, when parents use poverty as a yardstick for their behaviours. Chand (1999) argue that due to the large number of cases of child abuse and child protection issues among black African children and families, social workers should take the initiative and be proactive by liaising with the families they serve, informing them about where they draw their boundaries. Changes in the knowledge and skill base As with any profession there are both new approaches and new understandings about the effectiveness of specific interventions. Investment in research and the dissemination of knowledge and skills in health remains vast greater than in social care. But the strengthening of these resources in social work and social care should result in more knowledge based practice and management in the medium and long term. The case for recognising different sources of knowledge has been made and the multiplicity of information collected in various departments need to include that produced through the experience and expertise of people using the services and front line workers as well as from research. According to Chand (1999) training either formally or informally, is important for social workers working with black African families with child-rearing issues since it can raise the issue of how black African families meet their children needs differently. The training should be integrated into the so cial work training syllabus in higher education and this would broaden the understanding of students which may dispel some of the myths around black African families and their child-rearing practices and alleviate the potential of pathologizing them in child care practices (Chand, 1999). Technological and structural changes Recent technological changes, identification of gaps in knowledge and skills new areas of working are emerging which is resulting in the provision of services falling behind service demands. For instance global movements have necessitated the need for social workers to work with African children and families migrating to the UK with existing poor backgrounds, to work with asylum seekers or refugees escaping from own countries in political turmoil or at war (Newburn, 1993). New technologies and the growing familiarity of the public in using social welfare services opens up new forms of interventions particularly to assist African families living poverty in the UK. In areas where there is rapid development or new issues with social work practice there is the necessity in advance of theory. Strategies in these circumstances may include transferring existing knowledge and skills to the new area, drawing on any international experience and expertise, networking to share and learn from exp erience and research on needs and effective responses. Initially these may need to be done separately to structure a different perspective before it is possible to bring experience and learning together in new ways. Multi organisational or Partnership Intervention For intervention to meet the required target, it all depends on proper initial assessment, but many of the assessment tools that are employ such as DoH (2000) Framework for the Assessment of children in need and their families may disadvantage black African families due to the eurocentric approach of social workers. Research shows that partnership is needed to embrace both good working relationships and appropriate intervention process (Chand, 1999). Against this background, children in need may be given preventative supports and will prevent vulnerable children from abuse or maltreatment. Therefore greater attention should be given to support professional social work practice, and safeguarding the value base, the relationship and the process of good practice, expertise of social workers and related professions. Implications and issues for considerations Recent studies on African families and the child protection system show that these families are disproportionately represented at different levels in the child care system. The existing intervention tools for social work practice are grounded within ethnocentric epistemologies and, as the foundation for social work theory and practice, are not well equipped for the task of nurturing and developing African families and their children. This is evident, for example, in the sustained over-representation of black children in the care system and in the lack of supportive social work services designed to meet their needs. It is therefore important for the development of new theoretical perspectives based on systems theory to help social workers who work with African children and families. This will enable social workers to take a broader view of their role and to develop a vivid perception of parenting behaviours and practices of these families which are complicated with poverty so that a m ore appropriate method of intervention are employed in their judgement. The extreme poverty experience by many African families pose challenges for social workers working to safeguard and promote childrens welfare (Bernard and Gupta, 2008). The Framework for the Assessment of Children in Need and their Families (Department of Health, 2000) based on the ecological approach places a requirement on social workers to also consider the low income status of parents when intervening cases of child abuse. These approaches provide an essential framework for work with African children and families, both in terms of the context of their lives and the process of the work being undertaken. In order to safeguard and promote the welfare of West African children, a starting point must be an acknowledgement of sources of maltreatment of children in the context of poverty (Bernard and Gupta, 2006). The dissertation highlights the importance of social workers considering the poverty situations of many African families who have immigrated to the United Kingdom, particularly those who have recently arrived into the country. Most of the African families may be asylum seekers or refugees with insecure social status and may have very limited understanding of the child protection or welfare state system in the UK (Bernard Gupta, 2008). Therefore only throug

Friday, October 25, 2019

The Problems of SOL Testing :: Exploratory Essays Research Papers

The Problems of SOL Testing Education is one of the most important tools that society possesses. The right implementation of this tool is one of the greatest ways of assuring the quality of life within a society. The ability to better ourselves, is one of the strongest inherit abilities of the human race. At its most basic definition, education is nothing more than the teaching of ideas. The early stages of schooling instill more attitude and social skills than knowledge. The younger stages of a person's life are usually the most definable years of their lives. As the age and skill level of the student increases, more education is based upon the interest of the student. For society to progress and excel, every generation must learn just a little more. Education is important and the ways that it is tested should show the most accurate measure of achievement. SOL's (Standards of Learning) is the testing I am going to explain, and why it should not be required in high school as a form of measurement of a s tudents achievement. First of all, what is SOL testing? SOL (Standards of Learning) Tests are prescribed tests in the state of Virginia that must be taken in order for students to attain credits required to graduate. SOL's are the minimum curriculum requirements for student achievement, so they say. This test is designed to test knowledge in subjects such as history, math, science, english and computer science. SOL's are required tests in the state of Virginia in order for a student to graduate. According to the Virginia Board of Education, SOL test scores are the single best measure of students' and schools performance and should be the primary criteria for graduation and accreditation. But is this really true? According to fairtest.org, no standardized test can accurately measure a student's achievement. Multiple choice tests cannot truly assess critical thinking, problem solving, and application skills. The only real tests of knowledge are through essay questions and performance tests. I don't believe any single test should be used to make big decisions concerning students futures. The Virginia Board of Education, according to fairtest.org, also believes that SOL's set reasonable targets for essential knowledge and skills all teachers must teach and students must learn.