Towards the Conceptualization of a Nonâ€Linear ISD Model

Towards the Conceptualization of a Non–Linear ISD Model Introduction Over the years, a multiplicity of instructional design models have been suggested, and many of these models have been incorporated into mainstream educational institutions for purposes of aiding instruction and directing the learning process. In their study on developing a multimedia package for teaching qualitative research, Colon et al (2000), noted that over 200 instructional design models have been proposed and indeed published in some of the widely read educational literature.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Towards the Conceptualization of a Non–Linear ISD Model specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Many of the models, however, are oriented towards behaviorist and constructivist theories of learning, leading to accusations and counter-accusations by a number of leading scholars that the models impede the true nature and scope of learning not only due to their behaviorist point of referen ce, but also due to their signature top-down linear and sequential processes (Colon et al., 2000). In the light of the above and other accusations, this paper aims to demonstrate how a non-liner instructional systems design (ISD) model can be conceptualized for instruction. Why a Non-Linear ISD Model Existing literature demonstrates that employing an ISD model can be helpful to instructional designers in assisting them to systematically identify what is to be taught, establish the best teaching methodologies that can be used, and appraise the instruction to determine its effectiveness in fulfilling the tasks and objectives for which it is intended (Kanuka Anderson, 1999). The Instructional Systems Design Model developed in 1996 by Dick and Carey has indeed proved to be popular among instructional designers in providing a framework through which instruction is provided to learners. This particular model is solidly â€Å"†¦based on one form of systems theory, as well as behavio ral and information processing theories of learning† (Colon et al., 2000, para. 12). However, due to the convergence of technology, changes in the education system, and new and unique needs projected by learners, this and other linear models for instruction design continue to attract criticism from various quarters. According to Gayeski (1998), inadequacies and ineffectiveness exhibited by these models, especially in learning and performance improvement environments has called their practicability into question.Advertising Looking for research paper on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Critics have also faulted the sequential, systematic, teacher-led, and top-down approach employed by linear ISD models largely due to the fact that they relegate learners to the role of passive participants, not mentioning the fact that most of these models do not provide room for innovation and active feedback (Colon et al, 2000). While it is critically important for educators to clearly identify the learning objectives and systematically sequence them from least complex to the most complex (Kanuka Anderson, 1999), the linear approach employed locks out many students from applying the knowledge learnt to solve contemporary practical solutions by virtue of the fact that learning objectives exist irrespective of the contributions made by the learner. The models are further criticized for assuming an overly behaviorist and constructivist orientation in instruction and ignoring other methodologies that can effectively be used to transfer knowledge (Mergel, 1998). There is, therefore, a compelling need to devise non-linear ISD models to ensure optimal transfer of practical knowledge from the educator to the student. Model Phases and Linkages The conceptualized ISD model heavily relies on R2D2 model developed in 1995 by Willis and Merrill’s First Principles of Instruction developed by David Merr ill (Colon et al., 2000; Merrill, 2002). The model has 6 phases, namely, problem identification, recursion, reflection, activation, participatory application, and integration. The problem-centered ISD model first identifies the problem and develops a set of objectives used to solve the problem. The set of objectives developed in this model are likely to change depending on the needs of individual learners, hence the need to create a link between the problem identification and the recursion and reflection phases (see appendix 1). According to Merrill (2002), â€Å"†¦learning is activated when learners are engaged in solving real-world problems† (p. 43). The recursion phase will aim to specifically allow instruction designers and learners to revisit any phase included in the model to make refinements, corrections, and revisions as deemed necessary. This will actively promote the learning process in addition to ensuring holistic integration of new knowledge by the learners. This phase is also linked to problem identification phase, reflection phase and integration phase.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Towards the Conceptualization of a Non–Linear ISD Model specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The next phase – reflection – is intended to emphasize the need for the instruction designers to considerately inquire about feedback and other arising notions from other sources, including the learners’ own perceptions, worldviews and level of understanding (Cohen et al., 2000). Further on, activation phase will take cognizance of the fact that â€Å"learning is promoted when relevant previous experience is activated† (Merrill, 2002, p. 46). Many learners have had many previous experiences that may relate to the task at hand and, as such, relevant information should be activated by going back to the reflection phase to ensure this information is elicited for use as groundwork for learning new knowledge. The participatory application phase is where real learning takes place. This phase takes note of the fact that it is the learners who will utilize the knowledge transferred by educators, and they must therefore be active participants in the learning process (Cohen et al., 2002). As such, this phase will also be linked with other phases such as problem identification and reflection to guarantee the involvement of learners. In this phase, educators must develop frameworks aimed at ensuring that learning process is consistent with the identified methodologies of solving the problem, and that learners have the capacity to utilize the new knowledge in solving practical problems. The integration phase will focus on ensuring that learners have the capacity to integrate the knowledge transferred by the educators to solve their everyday problems (Merrill, 2002). This phase will also be linked with reflection and recursion phases to ensure all arising queries from the learners are adequately attended to (see appendix 1). Model Outputs The outputs for problem identification phase include the objectives and the methodologies that will be used to solve the underlying problem. The recursion phase will generate problem refinements, corrections, and revisions as may be deemed necessary. The reflection phase will generate feedback from instructors and students, and learners’ perceptions and worldviews concerning the problem at hand.Advertising Looking for research paper on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The activation phase will aim to come up with quantifiable measures that can be used to evaluate the capacity of learners to grasp and relate to the problem at hand, while the participatory application phase will generate the actual results of the learning process, including how the learner has understood the problem and if there is need to make clarifications. The outputs arising from the integration phase include the practical demonstration by learners on how they can use the knowledge learnt to solve real-life problems, and the capacity by learners to link the knowledge learnt to other life experiences. Structure of Model The model utilizes a non-linear structure to avoid the many problems associated with linear ISD models. This particular model realizes that different problems may call for diverse starting points, and new objectives may indeed emerge over the design process (Cohen et al., 2002). As such, it is important to create mechanisms for adequately address arising issues that are largely ignored in linear models. Conclusion The need to conceptualize and develop a non-linear ISD model is very much informed by the urge to come up with practical solutions to the many challenges facing instruction especially in contemporary times. Learners need to be assisted to solve practical solutions using an instruction strategy that is responsive to their needs, and that realizes their participation is important for effective learning to take place. In addition, the complex nature of modern problems and instruction have rendered most linear ISD models ineffective due to entrenched limitations in scope and practicability in offering an instruction methodology that can assist learners to relate what has been learned to real-life experiences (Merrill, 2002). The conceptualized non-linear ISD model will not only ensure that learners can use new knowledge to solve practical issues, but it will avail platforms for recursion and participatory application. Appendix 1: An Illustration of Non-Linear ISD Model References Colon, B., Taylor, K.N., Willis, J. (2000). Constructivist instructional design: Creating a multimedia package for teaching critical research. The Qualitative Research, 5(1-2). Web. Gayeski, D.M. (1998). Out-of-the box instructional design: Moving from assembly-line models to non-linear performance models. Web. Kanuka, H., Anderson, T. (1999). Using constructivism in Technology-Mediated Learning: Constructing the Order out of the Chaos in the Literature. Web. Mergel, B. (1998). Instructional Design Learning Theory. Web. Merrill, M.D. (2002). First principles of Instruction. ETRD, 50(3), 43-59. Web.

Biography of Luigi Galvani, Electrophysiology Pioneer

Biography of Luigi Galvani, Electrophysiology Pioneer Luigi Galvani (September 9, 1737–December 4, 1798) was an  Italian physician who demonstrated what we now understand to be the electrical basis of nerve impulses. In 1780, he accidentally made frog muscles twitch by jolting them with a spark from an electrostatic machine. He went on to develop a theory of animal electricity. Fast Facts: Luigi Galvani Known For:  Demonstrating the electrical basis of nerve impulsesAlso Known As:  Aloysius GalvanusBorn:  September 9, 1737 in Bologna,  Papal StatesParents: Domenico Galvani  and  Barbara Caterina Galvani  Died:  December 4, 1798 in Bologna, Papal StatesEducation: University of Bologna, Bologna, Papal StatesPublished Works: De viribus electricitatis in motu musculari commentarius (Commentary on the Effect of Electricity on Muscular Motion)Spouse: Lucia Galeazzi Galvani  Notable Quote: I was fired with incredible zeal and desire of having the same experience, and of bringing to light whatever might be concealed in the phenomenon. Therefore I myself also applied the point of a scalpel to one or other crural nerve at a time when one or other of those who were present elicited a spark. The phenomenon always occurred in the same manner: violent contraction in individual muscles of the limbs, just as if the prepared animal had been seized with tetanus, were induced at the same moment of time in which sparks were discharged. Early Life and Education Luigi Galvani was born in Bologna, Italy, on September 9, 1737. As a young man he wished to take religious vows, but his parents persuaded him to go to university instead. He studied at the University of Bologna, where he earned his degree in medicine and philosophy in 1759. Work and Research After graduation, he supplemented his own research and practice as an honorary lecturer at the university. His earliest published papers covered a wide range of topics, from the anatomy of bones to the urinary tracts of birds. By the end of the 1760s, Galvani had married Lucia Galeazzi, the daughter of a former professor. They had no children. Galvani became a professor of anatomy and surgery at the university, taking the position of his father-in-law after he died. In the 1770s, Galvani’s focus shifted from anatomy to the relationship between electricity and life. Great Discovery As with many scientific discoveries, a colorful story is told about the accidental revelation of bioelectricity. According to Galvani himself, one day he observed his assistant using a scalpel on a nerve in a frog’s leg. When a nearby electric generator created a spark, the frog’s leg twitched. This observation prompted Galvani to develop his famous experiment. He spent years testing his hypothesis- that electricity can enter a nerve and force a contraction- with a variety of metals. Animal Electricity Later, Galvani was able to cause muscular contraction without a source of electrostatic charge by touching the frog’s nerve with different metals. After further experimenting with natural (i.e., lightning) and artificial (i.e., friction) electricity, he concluded that animal tissue contained its own innate vital force, which he termed animal electricity. He believed animal electricity to be a third form of electricity- a view that wasn’t altogether uncommon in the 18th century. While these findings were revelatory, astonishing many in the scientific community at the time, it took a contemporary of Galvani’s, Alessandro Volta, to fine-tune the meaning of Galvani’s discoveries. Voltas Response A professor of physics, Volta was among the first to mount a serious response to Galvani’s experiments. Volta proved that the electricity did not emerge from the animal tissue itself, but from the effect produced by the contact of two different metals in a moist environment (a human tongue, for instance). Ironically, our current understanding shows that both scientists were right. Galvani would attempt to respond to Volta’s conclusions by doggedly defending his theory of animal electricity, but the onset of personal tragedies (his wife died in 1790) and the political momentum of the French Revolution prevented him from pursuing his response. Later Life and Death Napoleon’s troops occupied Northern Italy (including Bologna) and in 1797 academics were required to take an oath of allegiance to the republic declared by Napoleon. Galvani refused and was forced to leave his position. Without income, Galvani moved back to his childhood home. He died there on December 4, 1798, in relative obscurity. Legacy Galvani’s influence lives on, not only in the discoveries that his work inspired- like Volta’s eventual development of the electric battery- but in a wealth of scientific terminology as well. A galvanometer is an instrument used to detect electric current. Galvanic corrosion, meanwhile, is an accelerated electrochemical corrosion that occurs when dissimilar metals are placed in electrical contact. Lastly, the term galvanism is used in biology to signify any muscular contraction stimulated by an electrical current. In physics and chemistry, galvanism is the induction of electrical current from a chemical reaction. Galvani has a surprising role in literary history as well. His experiments on frogs evoked a haunting sense of reawakening in the way they motivated movement in a dead animal. Galvanis observations served as a noted inspiration for Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. Sources Dibner, Bern.  Galvani-Volta: A Controversy That Led to the Discovery of Useful Electricity. Burndy Library, 1952.Commentary On The Effect Of Electricity On Muscular MotionFull text of .â€Å"Luigi Galvani.†Ã‚  MagLab.

Commercial Insurance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Commercial Insurance - Essay Example This is engineered by the employer themselves and requires that a substantial amount of the employee’s salary be directly injected into the scheme. It sometimes covers the individual’s family or the next of kin for all benefits as entitled to the employee. Covered here is the key employee policy. This is extended, by the employer, to that employee whose sickness or demise will greatly affect a business’s returns. The individual health plan sometimes also features a funeral expenses cover (Gevine, 1995). Pharmacy benefits to customers comprise the accessibility, and the ease of doing so, of quality medication upon prescription. Members of the scheme can access drugs, prescription or otherwise, anytime from participating medical facilities. The benefits with this program are that you are not only diagnosed but also given drugs recommended by your doctor without â€Å"buying†. The medicare plan is useful in that it allows for subscribers to access services such as change in dressing, regular checkups on weight and blood sugar levels at zero extra cost. Medevac plans also categorized here whereby the patient, if in a remote area is evacuated by plane or an ambulance and promptly accorded medicare. However, these might come at a cost to the average subscriber. This caters for prime US citizens. The plan seeks to ensure that even in old age, they will still access quality health care. It is also inclusive of advisory services in terms of diets, exercise routines, quality sleep patterns and healthy lifestyle which are exclusive of smoking or drinking. Stress management is also featured there. This is because, since these members are advanced in age, this might trigger morbid heart related complications (Gevine, 1995). Specialty packages cater for members with special needs to enable them acquire services without

Global Warming Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Global Warming - Research Paper Example This decision is fundamentally based upon the assumption that if humans are legally bound to control CO2 emissions, global warming can be reduced. However, scientists vary in their views regarding the existence of global warming as a problem. Many do not attribute this problem to humans. Government’s resolution to finalize such a treaty is being criticized in that if its enforcement is delayed up to some 25 years, it would hardly do anything to lower the temperature after 100 years. In this way, the proposed restrictions of the treaty would do more of economic harm than environmental good. A better idea is to postpone any legal action unless human activity is proved to be the fundamental cause of global warming. Meanwhile, better technology should be developed in order to mitigate the issue of global warming so that both environment and economy remain in good health. Biblebelievers.org.au (n.d.) has discussed certain myths that contradict the beliefs of many. They are discusse d as follows: Myth 1 – scientists mutually consent upon warming up of Earth. According to the ground-level temperature measurements, since 1850, temperature of Earth has only increased from 0.3C to 0.6C. There is no evidence of global warming in the global satellite data of the past 18 years. Thus, saying that the globe is warming up is a myth. Myth 2 – Humans are making the globe warm. ... Scientists’ view on global warming (biblebelievers.org.au, n.d.). Myth 3 – If necessary action is not taken in time, this can be very deleterious for the environment. Immediate government action is required before it gets too late. Proponents of the theory of global warming consented in a 1995 analysis that action to safeguard the environment against global warming can be delayed for at least 25 years without causing any harm to the environment. Governments can cut emissions to approximately 9 billion tons per year now, or wait until 2020 and cut emissions by 12 billion tons per year. Either scenario would result in the desired CO2 concentration of 550 parts per million. Delaying action until 2020 would yield an insignificant temperature rise of 0.2 degrees Celsius by 2100. (biblebelievers.org.au, n.d.). Myth 4 – Global warming caused by humans will create dreadful environmental issues. Such beliefs have been totally rejected by many reputable scientists, particu larly those who researched upon the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) of the UN organization. â€Å"There is no actual evidence that carbon dioxide emissions are causing global warming. Note that computer models are just concatenations of calculations you could do on a hand-held calculator, so they are theoretical and cannot be part of any evidence† (David Evans cited in Cook, 2011). International energy statistics are available that tabulate the peat, coal, crude oil and brown coal production for every country starting from 1751. An in-depth analysis of the statistics suggests that the emission of CO2 has increased manifolds in the last century. According to EIA (cited in Cook, 2011), up to 29 billion tonnes of CO2 were released in the year 2006. The level

ABC Inc. New Hire Case Analysis Essay Example for Free

ABC Inc. New Hire Case Analysis Essay Mr. Carl Robins, recently hired as a recruiter, is tasked with setting up an orientation for a group of new hires he recruited for Operations Supervisor Monica Carrolls. There is a fair amount of preparation work that needs to be completed prior to the orientation: information files and drug screening for each person, company orientation and policy manuals, and a location for the orientation process to happen. In order for the new hires to start work by July, enough time has been allocated for all tasks to be completed and room reservation prior to the orientation class on June 15. Not all of the requirements have been met, and time is short. A plan needs to be developed and implemented to ensure that situations like this are no longer experienced at ABC Inc. See more: Satirical elements in the adventure of Huckleberry Finn essay Background This case study recognizes the problems that Carl Robins is experiencing with getting an orientation class set up, and will focus on those problems that have affected his ability to have the orientation on the projected date. Key Problems One of the key contributors to the issue is that Carl Robins is new to his job, and this is the first class of new hires he is responsible for. According to Top Suggestions on Improving Employee Efficiency (2012), â€Å"It has often been said that a successful business operation, regardless of its size, depends on the effective management of â€Å"people, products, and processes.† (para. 2). The key problems that Monica Carrolls needs to be aware of and have examined before a resolution can be achieved are as follows: †¢ Carl Robins’ interview process †¢ Carl Robins’ time management skills †¢ Training Department’s supply of new hire material †¢Ã‚  Training room reservation process Carl Robins’ Interview Process One of the first things to look at would be to review Carl Robins’ interview process. What does Carl Robins do with the applications before he invites anyone to sit for an interview? Does he verify the prospective new hire’s application for completeness first? Does he require the application to include the prospective new hire’s transcripts when it is submitted to the company for consideration? Carl Robins’ Time Management Skills Something that is very important and every company will consider is whether or not their employees are productive and doing their job as efficiently as possible. They want to make sure they are getting the best employees possible for the money that they pay out to them. Mr. Robins first recruited these new hires in early April. It is now near the end of May with only a couple of weeks before the orientation is supposed to happen. What has Mr. Robins been doing for the last eight weeks that he is just now noticing issues with the new hire’s paperwork? Did he file the applications and forget about them? He was reminded by Ms. Carrolls midway through May, and assured her that it would all be done on time. When he became frustrated about the paperwork, he went for a walk. Why did he not start to make calls to the new hires for the required documentation? Could he not have also started calling everyone to get the drug screening scheduled? Training Department’s Supply of New Hire Material ABC Inc. is a company large enough to have a full-time recruiter on staff. They are, therefore, large enough to have a Training Department, or at a minimum, personnel responsible for the training of new hires. These personnel should also be responsible to maintain the material needed to hand out to the new hires for their orientation to the company. Why were there only three orientation manuals available? Why did those three have pages missing? Who is responsible for the supply of the training material? Training Room Reservation Process Who had the training room reserved first? Is this training room scheduling log just a logbook or a paper calendar written in to reserve the room? If  so, are they using some type of permanent ink to avoid someone erasing a reservation? What kind of controls or supervision is in place to oversee the use of the training room? Alternatives Carl Robins’ Interview Process Because Carl is essentially a new employee, and this is his first class of new personnel, has he been properly trained regarding all of the aspects of his own job? No company wants to have their employees set up for failure. The company could consider having Carl or any new hire follow a veteran employee to get a better understanding of their responsibilities. Starting from the beginning of the hiring process, is Carl Robins following the company’s guidelines and policies regarding the hiring of new personnel? As a recruiter, Carl is not familiar with all of the jobs at ABC Inc., and he should refer any applications to the appropriate department head for an approval regarding the applicant’s qualifications. ABC Inc. should also require that all applications will be complete, and include transcripts before being considered for employment. Carl Robins’ Time Management Skills Time management is a skill that many people need to be taught for it to be effective. From the time that Carl hired the 15 new personnel in early April, nothing has been reported as being accomplished to support the completion of the orientation class. Ms. Carrolls even checked up on him on May 15, to ensure progress was being made. Although there is currently no time before this orientation class, Carl Robins should attend a course on time management. According to Top Suggestions on Improving Employee Efficiency (2012): One of the best things that you can do is to invest in your employees’ capabilities by providing an education and training program through which they can enhance their skills and develop their competences in relation to their tasks within the company. (para. 3) Training Department’s Supply of New Hire Material There are many automated systems that can enhance the logistical aspect of maintaining an inventory of material. For a company that has not already invested in an automated inventory management system, the cost to install a new one can be significant as well as the time it would take to get the  system up and running and employees trained on its use. While orientation manuals are probably not used very often in most companies, having to make an excuse to a new hire why there are not enough of them can lead to the perception by the new hire that the company is not a professional place of business. This can lead to the new employee deciding that they will be better off working somewhere else. â€Å"Cause-and-effect analysis can also help us plan, make decisions, and implement important changes.† (Clouse, 2008, Chapter 11, Cause-and-Effect Analysis). Training Room Reservation Process The process that the training room is reserved is a simple matter to make it better and more reliable. Instead of using a log that any employee can write in or erase data from, have one of the Training Department’s personnel be responsible for the documentation of the reservations. There are also many different methods to automate the process. A simple spreadsheet on a computer that people have the authority to write information to but do not have the authority to delete information from could solve double booking of the room. ABC Inc. could also utilize a conference room, if the company has one, as an alternative to a training room if a double booking occurs. There is also the option of renting a conference room at a local hotel for the orientation class. Many hotels will even cater a lunch if the class is long enough. Proposed Solution Cherry (2012), â€Å"The ultimate goal of problem-solving is to overcome obstacles and find a solution that best resolves the issue.† (para. 1). For the moment, the best resolution to this problem is to postpone the class to the beginning of July. This will allow the new hires the ability to complete their applications and get the required transcripts in to Mr. Robins before the orientation. It will also allow sufficient time for the new hires to complete the required drug screening. The Training Department will be able to replenish the stock of orientation manuals for future classes. Joe, in technology services, will be able to complete his training requirement for the new database software eliminating the double booking of the training room. This will allow ABC Inc. the ability to get through this issue without letting the first impression of the new hires to be one of disorganization. Recommendations It is recommended that after the orientation has been completed Ms Carrolls takes action regarding Carl Robins’ interview and hiring process, and coach him to a better understanding of the company’s policies and needs when it come to new hire training. Reinforce the trust and teamwork ethic ABC Inc. has so that he does not believe he is overwhelmed when a problem presents itself. Offer a time management course for employees so they will be better able to prioritize their tasks and complete them in a more efficient manner. ABC Inc. should also implement a different scheduling process for the training room that provides better accountability. Conclusion When looking at this situation from the outside, there is no company, manager, or employee that wants to do a bad job. When an employer sets up their personnel for success, the company will succeed as a result. Many times the issue at hand is the effect from an underlying cause or multiple causes. This issue has brought to light an opportunity for ABC Inc. to set up its personnel for success and improve some of its processes to operate more efficiently. References Cherry, K. (2012). What Is Problem-Solving?. Retrieved from http://psychology.about.com/od/problemsolving/f/problem-solving-steps.htm Clouse, B.F. (2008). The Student Writer (7th ed.). Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection database.. Top Suggestions on Improving Employee Efficiency . (2012). Retrieved from http://www.sixsigmaonline.org/six-sigma-training-certification-information/top- suggestions-on-improving-employee-efficiency-.html

The Knife :: essays research papers

The knife Everybody has read a horror story before at some point, but a story from Alfred Hitchcock is different because at the end he leaves the reader thinking what has happened. In "The Knife" he uses Plot, Setting, and Conflict to do just this. Edward Dawes and Herbert Smithers are just two friends having a drink with each other, but one of them has a knife that was found in a nearby sewer drain. Herbert is cleaning it widly as if he was possesed. Then a red ruby appears on the knife when he is done cleaning it, now the madness breaksout like a terrible plague.. While Herbert is admiring the knife, the maid walks in and asks to see the knife, but all of a sudden Herbert goes insane out of his mind when the maid touched him, then he stares right at the maid with a devilish look, and out of the blue he stabbed her, next thing you know the maid is on the floor dead and Herbert runs out the house as fast as he can. The reader may think this is the climax, but it is not, it is the rising action leading up to the climax. Alfred Hitchcock does not tell the reader why he stabbed her, he likes to leaving the reader thinking and get more into the story, which is kind of like a hook to keep the reader reading. The climax is where he will get the readers interested more in the story. After Herbert runs out Edward Dawes picks up the knife and notifys the police of the incident. once he has called the police for some reason he goes into the kitchen to clean the wicked knife. While he is cleaning it, it slips out of his hand and cuts his arm, then his wife walks in and trys to help him, then Edward goes bezerk just like his friend Herbert and for no reason stabbs her in her chest. The falling action and conclusion get a little weird because the police get to the scene, and they start discussing about this, but the sergeant remembers a murder on the same street a while back, and the person that was murdered on this street was Marie Kelly, the last victim of Jack The Ripper. When Jack The Ripper was getting away he dropped the knife into a sewer drain. Both men say it was the knife that made them stabb

Break Even Analysis

The above breakeven analysis of each variable displays the combination of the variables that result in a break-even position for the Beta project at ABC Corporation. For example, the 6% sales growth rate would result in a break-even for the project if the operating expenses grow at 8%. Other ratios are derived from sales and operating expenses so that their growth rates are also reflective of the â€Å"critical† rates – below these rates, the break-even would be violated.The forecasts of the variables depict the estimates made by ABC Corporation for each of the variables in the context of market information and judgment. In this case, all of the values are above the critical value thus it has to be re-calculated whether the combination results in a break-even or not. For example, the operating expenses growth rate increased by 46. 7% while sales growth rate was up by only 14. 3%. The balancing factors have to re-evaluated in order to deduce whether the break-even is ach ieved or not.This can be done by adding up the values in the %change column – assigning a positive to sales/revenue increases and a negative to cost heads. b. Which variables are most critical to the success of the beta project? (2 points) There are two methods of judging the critical factors to the success of this project: one would be to compare the critical values of the different variables while the other would be find the variances of each of the percentage changes in the values of different variables.Following the first method, it would lead to the conclusion that the gross profit margin is the most critical factor having a 28% critical value. Following the second method, the operating expenses would be the most critical variable. The justification for each of the methods stands valid in their grounds. However, for this project, it would be more suitable to state that the operating expenses is the most critical factor followed closely by the base sales for 2008 and then the gross profit margin. c. Why would it be helpful to know which variables are most critical to the success of the project?(5 points) Projects often fail when managers and controllers spend time and money on processes covering variables that are of little importance. Understanding the critical factors of a project helps project managers to focus on the processes that are relatively more important and achieve targets that would satisfy the critical limits of the variables. Essentially speaking, critical variables should be known in order to make decisions as the project progresses and decide where and when to make changes that would affect the critical variables (and how will it affect the

American Psycho: Obsession comes from the inability

To be successful and functional members of society, we must always be evolving with its changes. But once we grow negligent towards other aspects of our lives, and focus on one only, negative effects inevitably follow. Obsession renders us dysfunctional citizens due to our inability to maintain balance in our lives, and to accept understand ourselves as we are. In the novel, American Psycho, by Bret Gaston Ellis, Patrick Bateman, a Manhattan socialite, Is a caricature by which the horrors of obsession are demonstrated.These fixations demonstrate that obsession comes from the inability to accept oneself. In the following paragraphs, we support our argument by considering the fixations of Bateman with physical beauty, success and Jealousy, and murder and gore. Batsman's fixation with physical beauty are clearly seen when he Is engaged in bragging and putting his wealth on display for the audience and later, for emphasis, cleansing with expensive products. Bateman spends his days In Ind ulgence of wealth; he snorts cocaine, goes to clubs, and feeds his addiction to expensive labels. Take the ice-pack mask off and use a deep-pore cleanser lotion, then an herb-mint facial masque†¦ I use the Bright tooth polisher and next the Interplay tooth polisher†¦ In the shower I use first a water-activated gel cleanser, then a honey- almond body scrub†¦ L always use an aftershave lotion with little or alcohol, because alcohol dries your face out, and makes you look older. † (26-27) He is motivated by his need for physical beauty to spend hours of every day fulfilling extensive cosmetic and exercise rituals.He is very specific about his products, settling for no less than â€Å"a deep-pore cleanser lotion,† and â€Å"an herb-mint facial masque. † HIS routines are detailed carefully so as to avoid any damage to his beauty, such as using alcohol, which â€Å"dries your face out, and makes you look older. † This obsession Is born from his In security about his physical attractiveness. Throughout the book, Bateman is portrayed as being anxious about his looks, asking, â€Å"WOWS my hair? † (232) on numerous occasions. When he is uncomfortable in a social situation tit an ex-girlfriend, Pee immediately becomes self-conscious, â€Å"What? I panic, immediately touching my hair. â€Å"Too much mousse? † (236). Later in the book, he expresses his concerns about becoming addicted to exercise. When confronted, he states, â€Å"You can always be thinner, look better. (372)† This obsession with his physical appearance clearly derived from his inability to accept himself physically. Batsman's dissatisfaction with his career is apparent when he expresses his frustration about being a useless member of the Pierce & Pierce firm which his father rustically owns.This dissatisfaction cultivates into an obsessive Jealousy of Paul â€Å"Hello, Owen,† I say, admiring the way he's styled and slicked back his hai r, with a part so even and sharp it†¦ Devastates me and I make a mental note to ask him where he purchases his hair-care products, which kind of mousse he uses, my final guess after mulling over the possibilities being Ten -X. â€Å"(1 1 1) From the introduction of Paul Owen in the novel until his murder, Bateman remains fixated on Omen's success and handling of a prestigious account.There are numerous occasions in which he asks or thinks about this such as, â€Å"Owen is standing near the bar†¦ I'm about to walk over and mention something about that damned Fischer account†¦ † (185). Batsman's obsession with Omen's successful career comes from the dissatisfaction with his own. This is apparent when asked about work Patrick expresses frustration saying, â€Å"l Just don't want to talk about†¦ Work†¦ I hate it. â€Å"(237). As Batsman's fixation with Paul Owen and his success grows, he is less and less able to accept himself, and his failing career u ntil he is able to murder Owen ND rid himself of his obsession.Such actions clearly imply that Batsman's obsession was born from his inability to accept himself. Batsman's inability to accept and understand himself cultivates in an obsession with murder and gore. This is demonstrated throughout the novel when he murders, rapes, and tortures several people for little to no reason. He is incapable of accepting and coping with his pain and thus becomes fixated on inflicting it upon others. â€Å"My pain is constant and sharp and I do not hope for a better world for anyone, in act I want my pain to be inflicted on others.I want no one to escape, but even after admitting, I gain no deeper knowledge of myself†¦ † (201) Bateman expresses sorrow over not being able to understand himself, or to cope with and accept the pain of psychopaths. This lack of connection with himself results in his dissatisfaction with his life, because of which he does not hope for â€Å"a better world for anyone† and inflicts his pain unto others. His inability to accept and understand his own pain is the origin of his uncontrollable obsession with murder and gore.Patrick Batsman's insecurities and the obsessions derived from them are reflective of the issues modern society is confronted with. The obsession with physical beauty as a product of low self-esteem, the obsession with others' success as a product of one's inability to achieve their own, and the obsession with bringing pain upon others as a product of pain within oneself are the struggles that Patrick Bateman represents that will perhaps resonate forever with mankind; all of which support the argument that obsession originates from the lack of acceptance and understanding of oneself.

Free Essays on Sandra Day O Connor

The atrticle Sandra’s Day was written by Ramesh Ponnuru and published in the National Review this year during the month of June. The National Review is a Conservative weekly journal of opinions and focuses mostly on the American Political scene. Ramesh Ponnuru is a Senior Editor for National Review, where he covers national politics. He has also written for the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Financial Times, Newsday, Washington Times, and other publications. Sandra Day O’Connor was the first woman ever to be appointed as an associate justice of the United States Supreme Court. O’Connor was the right woman at the right moment. To offset criticism of his opposition to the Equal Rights Amendment in 1980, Reagan promised to appoint the fist woman to the Supreme Court. During O’Connor’s first year on the Court, she made it clear she was a conservative. Although showing some signs of moving toward the center, O’Connor has most often voted with Rehnquist and Burger. Time Magazine labeled her William H. Rehnquist’s â€Å"Arizona twin†. In her first term the two voted together on twenty-seven of he thirty-one decisions decided by 5-4 votes. As stated, the article was published in The National Review. I didn’t particularly agree with the way the article was written. I felt it could have written in a better fashion and upon further research I found many examples. I felt this article isn’t for someone whom is unfamiliar with politics, but for someone is up to date with politics, who is interested in politics, and has a great understanding of it’s concepts. Therefore, the article was a bit difficult to understand. Upon further research I found a striking resemblance in all the articles I read. The only difference, were the terms that were used, and how it was written. The articles online were much easier to read, they were in layman’s terms and straight forward, unlike Ponnuru’s article. I came to the ... Free Essays on Sandra Day O' Connor Free Essays on Sandra Day O' Connor The atrticle Sandra’s Day was written by Ramesh Ponnuru and published in the National Review this year during the month of June. The National Review is a Conservative weekly journal of opinions and focuses mostly on the American Political scene. Ramesh Ponnuru is a Senior Editor for National Review, where he covers national politics. He has also written for the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Financial Times, Newsday, Washington Times, and other publications. Sandra Day O’Connor was the first woman ever to be appointed as an associate justice of the United States Supreme Court. O’Connor was the right woman at the right moment. To offset criticism of his opposition to the Equal Rights Amendment in 1980, Reagan promised to appoint the fist woman to the Supreme Court. During O’Connor’s first year on the Court, she made it clear she was a conservative. Although showing some signs of moving toward the center, O’Connor has most often voted with Rehnquist and Burger. Time Magazine labeled her William H. Rehnquist’s â€Å"Arizona twin†. In her first term the two voted together on twenty-seven of he thirty-one decisions decided by 5-4 votes. As stated, the article was published in The National Review. I didn’t particularly agree with the way the article was written. I felt it could have written in a better fashion and upon further research I found many examples. I felt this article isn’t for someone whom is unfamiliar with politics, but for someone is up to date with politics, who is interested in politics, and has a great understanding of it’s concepts. Therefore, the article was a bit difficult to understand. Upon further research I found a striking resemblance in all the articles I read. The only difference, were the terms that were used, and how it was written. The articles online were much easier to read, they were in layman’s terms and straight forward, unlike Ponnuru’s article. I came to the ...

Quotes from Shakespeare Comedies

Quotes from Shakespeare Comedies There are so many great quotes from Shakespeare plays - and some of the best quotes from Shakespeare come from his collection of comedy plays. Indeed, many of today’s most popular phrases derive from Shakespeare comedy plays. Have you ever found yourself saying â€Å"I’ll not budge and inch† or â€Å"the World’s my oyster†? You may be surprised to know that these are all quotes from Shakespeare plays. The Comedies - Quotes from Shakespeare Plays Alls Well That Ends Well:No legacy is so rich as honesty.(Spoken by Mariana in Act 3 Scene 5)As You Like It:If thou rememberst not the slightest follyThat ever love did make thee run into,Thou hast not loved:Or if thou hast not sat as I do now,Wearying thy hearer in thy mistress praise,Thou hast not loved:Or if thou hast not broke from companyAbruptly, as my passion now makes me,Thou hast not loved.(Spoken by Silvius in Act 2 Scene 4)Comedy of Errors:We came into the world like brother and brother;And now lets go hand in hand, not one before another.(Spoken by Dromio Of Ephesus in Act 5 Scene 1)Cymbeline:Is there no way for men to be, but womenMust be half-workers?(Spoken by Posthumus Leonatus in Act 2 Scene 5)Love’s Labour’s Lost:How well hes read, to reason against reading!(Spoken by Ferdinand in Act 1 Scene 1)Measure for Measure:O! it is excellentTo have a giants strength, but it is tyrannousTo use it like a giant.(Spoken by Isabella in Act 2 Scene 2)The Merry Wives of Windsor:Why, then the worlds mine oyster.Which I with sword will open.(Spoken by Pistol in Act 2 Scene 2) The Merchant of Venice:I am a Jew. Hath not a Jew eyes? Hath not a Jew hands,organs, dimensions, senses, affections, passions; fed with the samefood, hurt with the same weapons, subject to the same diseases,heald by the same means, warmd and coold by the same winterand summer, as a Christian is? If you prick us, do we not bleed? Ifyou tickle us, do we not laugh? If you poison us, do we not die?And if you wrong us, do we not revenge? If we are like you in therest, we will resemble you in that.(Spoken by Shylock in Act 3 Scene 1)A Midsummer Nights Dream:Ay me! for aught that ever I could read,Could ever hear by tale or history,The course of true love never did run smooth.(Spoken by Lysander in Act 1 Scene 1)Much Ado About Nothing:Some, Cupid kills with arrows, some with traps.(Spoken by Hero in Act 3 Scene 1)The Taming of the Shrew:I’ll not budge an inch.(Spoken by Sly in the Introduction)The Tempest:Where the bee sucks. there suck I:In a cowslips bell I lie;There I couch when o wls do cry.On the bats back I do flyAfter summer merrily.Merrily, merrily shall I live nowUnder the blossom that hangs on the bough..(Spoken by Ariel in Act 5 Scene 1) Twelfth Night:Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon em.(Spoken by Malvolio in Act 2 Scene 1)

Reflections Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Reflections - Essay Example Moreover, through evangelism, I get a better understanding on Christian challenges but derive satisfaction in making other identify with Christ. Nevertheless, the mode of evangelism defines the perception, challenges, and success in evangelism. As such, there is need to establish the most effective and less challenging strategies of evangelism. For instance, there is need to change the traditional evangelism approaches with ordinary attempts that the modern society can relate with (Henderson, 2007). Through this approach, evangelists will have an easy way in bridging the gap between the â€Å"lost† people and Jesus Christ (Henderson, 2007). Moreover, this approach will help the society to recognize salvation as a major and relevant decision in our lives. Additionally, there is need to establish the best conversation aids on evangelism for the society to understand the message spread by the evangelists (McRaney, 2003). Indeed, communication is a major factor in evangelism since evangelists seek to spread the gospel to a diverse society that requires a better understanding on the gospel for them to join Christhood. We should thus seek to remove all the barriers by adopting better communication strategies (McRaney, 2003), relating evangelism with the typical life, and use a variety of creative and natural connection po ints (Henderson,

How global issues have affected the people from different walks of Essay

How global issues have affected the people from different walks of life - Essay Example The paper tells that the world of today is plagued with a number of issues. These come in all shapes and sizes. They have a very drastic effect on the global populace and the problems seem to increase with each passing day. These global issues need to be taken care of because these break the basis of sanity within the day to day affairs of the people. It also makes the point apparent that suggests these global issues are becoming bigger than these used to be in the past. With changing time dimensions, the problems have started to become bigger and the effects have magnanimously increased which is a cause of concern. Some of these global issues comprise of the challenges that face businesses and multinational companies, the environmental problems, the child labor debate, the role of capitalism in the wake of business regimes, the cultural angle within the governments, improper educational quarters around the world, failing healthcare standards, the rise of terrorism, growing poverty, and the inadequate role of the world’s leading organizations like United Nations, World Bank, etc. These global issues therefore take their basis from the above-mentioned pointers. The reason for this has been discussed by the people who want to bring about a change within the business and societal domains on a proactive basis, but then again it is not this easy to undertake in the first place. What remains significant is the basis of comprehending how these issues have created problems for the people at large and the society in more ways than one. ... It has also been depicted through the role of the respective governmental domains as to how value is at times missing from the organizational levels (Edwards, 2012). This is something that takes a lot of flak at the hands of the top management entities which are working in an organization and which have a fair enough say in making up the organizational dynamics in essence. The multinational corporations are similarly facing the same problems on a regular basis. They are being at the receiving end of a number of steps that have been taken by the government at large and which focus on the premise of creating rifts with the relevant public domains and stakeholders that are varied and widespread in different cross-sections of the society. What is quintessential to take note of here is the ideology that these stakeholders need to be taken in the loop, without which success cannot be realized in the most basic sense. These issues are therefore taking up a lot of time for these business hub s which have planned to make it big within the global quarters yet face hurdles every now and often due to lingering and pressing concerns, raised by varied individuals and other corporations and companies. The need is to allocate proper resources under such realms to make sure that success comes about in full circle as far as the challenges for the business organizations and corporations are concerned. Addressing them would actually be seen as the first step towards solving such issues without a doubt. Issue of Environment Another global issue is of the environmental pollution that has played havoc with the lives of the people. It is this subject that has been much debated and hence given attention for all the right reasons. The global warming discussion is