E-Learning Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

E-Learning - Assignment Example According to research, multimedia is the combination of various elements with interactive components (Asian Development Bank 7). These elements can offer the consumer a more stimulating and vibrant web encounter, but like with everything, control is important. However, various multimedia elements need exceptional software development. It is unlawful to use pictures lacking the consent of either the photojournalist or the holder of the pictures. It is thus vital to attain authorization before an image is used for e-learning processes. Line art is the greatest rudimentary growth mass of official examination. It can be employed to develop more multifaceted shapes or to lead the eye of the audience from one location in the composition to another. Vector art element is employed by computers, where images saved take up less computer space. The images kept can effortlessly be inflated without altering the appearance. This, as a result, makes it simple for an e-learning education program to make or edit the image in order to suit the required pictures for learning. In the e-learning setting, interactivity is the communication that takes place between a person and a computer program; it allows the consumers to take part in the process actively instead of being a passive receiver of information. Interactivity is meant to enhance attentiveness, thus improving the learning process. These multimedia elements can be used in various ways in e-learning education program, and they can also be used at any given time depending on the requirements of the given organization. Instructional matters of the multimedia features are that there is deficiency of existing investigation to discourse the serious matters of just how to advance operative multimedia instructional concepts and technology that results into desired learning enactment and gratification. Audio is an element that uses sound to teach the material. Audio can be used as a stand-alone, such as a podcast. Alternatively, it can be used as a supplemental tool, such as providing sound to complement a PowerPoint presentation. The best time to use audio in e-learning is when the majority of learners are auditory. However, it can also be used to supplement text and other visual material. For example, visually a graph can be presented but audio can then explain the graph. The key is to only have it be supplemental, though; as Clark points out, stating the exact same points via sound and text can overload the learner rather than reinforce the material (Kineo, 2013). Audio should also not be used when it is known that learners will not have access to the required technology. One of the biggest technological issues with audio is developing a balance between file size and quality (Vaughan, 2007). It is important to ensure that quality is not compromised and that learners are able to clearly understand the file; however, because different systems, platforms, and users’ computers vary, file sizes need to b e considered in order to ensure that the files are accessible. As Vaughan (2007) points out, the better the quality is, the larger the file will be. Another technological issue involves the balancing of the recording levels; too high and it may be distorted with crackling or other noise, but too low and the sound â€Å"

Uneasiness Due to Less Commanding Novice Physical education teacher Thesis

Uneasiness Due to Less Commanding Novice Physical education teacher - Thesis Example This essay discusses that the experience of the teacher helps the teachers making plans for their lessons keeping in view the characteristics of the class and the attitude of the students. The experienced teacher is able to develop the task for classroom on the basis of their observation of the needs and behaviours of the children but the novice teacher has no or little idea about the attitude and behaviours of the students in the physical education class and their study plans and lessons are mainly based upon the written sources rather than real time observations.After implementing the lesson plans in the first class they have to monitor if there is need of modifying the plans according to the needs of the students. In this situation, the students are not getting refined educational instructions as the teacher has to spend more time on experimenting and testing his lesson plans rather immediately practicing them. The novice teacher often changes their lesson plans and activities on the basis of the class response that causes uneasiness to the students and makes it difficult for the students to easily adjust in the classroom.The decision-making strategies of the novice teacher are also different from the experienced teacher. Unlike the experienced teachers, the novice teacher doesn't have many strategies for managing the students in the class by facilitating their individual performances so the novice teacher mainly focuses upon the interest level of the entire class and make a decision on the basis of the overall interest.

Task Centred Approach And The Crisis Intervention Social Work Essay

Task Centred Approach And The Crisis Intervention Social Work Essay This short study takes up the evaluation and assessment of two social work intervention theories, namely the Task Centred Approach and the Crisis Intervention Method, with special regard to their implications and applications for social work practice. Social workers, in the course of their practice, are often called upon to help people in coping and dealing with different types of difficulties in their lives. Human beings face situations of crisis at one time or the other during their lives (Roberts, 2000, p 11). The crisis theory postulates that the occurrence of crises is normal to life. Such crisis situations can occur suddenly, like family illnesses or a loss of jobs, or be unpredictable, like entering school or growing older (Roberts, 2000, p 11). Individuals attempt to cope with crises with their available mechanisms, but face problems when such mechanisms do not work or when earlier unresolved crises get reactivated. Social workers are often called upon to intervene with individuals and help them in coping with their crises (Roberts, 2000, p 11). The task-centred approach is a progressive and goal-orientated method for social work practice. It constitutes a practice-based approach that is built on research and is being used in a diverse settings and circumstances (Nash, et al, 2005, p 33).  It represents a social work method wherein clients are assisted in carrying out problem reducing tasks within specific time periods. It is structured, problem focused and time-restricted and is being increasingly used in contemporary social service interventions (Nash, et al, 2005, p 33). Crisis intervention is often grouped together with the task centred approach. Malcolm Payne (1991, p 4) sees significant common ground between crises intervention and task centred approaches to social work practice. Both methods focus on problem solving, deal with brief interventions and are related to learning theory. This essay takes up the examination and assessment of these two theories, with especial regard to their communalities, their differences and their relevance for social work practice. Due regard is given to the implications of anti-oppressive practice. 2. Crisis Intervention Theory The crisis theory states that it is important for people to resolve their crises situations and experiences in order to cope with new developments and crises (Aguilera, 1998, p 47). If individuals are unable to resolve their earlier crises, they become more vulnerable to inability to resolve new crises. Individuals who learn new skills to resolve their crises are on the other hand strengthened in coping with future crisis situations (Aguilera, 1998, p 47). Human beings have considerable capacities for handling or dealing with difficult situations. It is only when such difficulties assume significant proportions and people do not have appropriate resources, personal, emotional, social, spiritual or physical, to deal appropriately with stressful circumstances or events that they become involved in crises. Difficult or stressful events do not by themselves result in crisis situations (Aguilera, 1998, p 47). Crises are actually determined by the responses of individuals to specific stres sful circumstances or events and their responses to them. Crises develop only when individuals perceive specific events to be significant and threatening, try to handle such events with their usual coping strategies without success, and are not able to use other alternatives (Aguilera, 1998, p 47). Behavioural and psychological experts perceive crises to be akin to states of psychological disequilibrium. Individuals experiencing crises are likely to experience a range of emotions like feelings of apprehension, anxiety, fear, guilt and helplessness (Nash, et al, 2005, p 37). Other indicators include alterations in eating and sleeping patterns, activity and energy levels and ability to concentrate. People in crises are also commonly known to suffer from depression and withdraw from social intervention (Nash, et al, 2005, p 37). Social work experts argue that whilst the majority of crises run their course or reach some semblance of stability within one or two months, it is necessary for skilled intervention to take place to strengthen the coping mechanisms of individuals. The failure to do so will result in the existence and continuance of crisis associated behaviours, even as the opportunity for change will be forgone (Nash, et al, 2005, p 37). People in crisis often have little by way of solutions and are receptive to external help and assistance (Roberts, 2000, p 19). The provisioning of skilled intervention by social work practitioners during the occurrence of the crises can result in opportunities for individuals experiencing crisis to learn new skills, achieve beneficial behavioural change, and regain stability. Individuals who have been able to successfully cope with crises are strengthened by such experiences and can use their skills in future times of difficulty (Roberts, 2000, p 19). Crisis intervention is essentially a professional response that is limited in terms of time and is used to assist individuals, families, and groups (Hepworth, et al, 2002, p 83). Social workers aim to assess the openness of individuals experiencing crises to learning of new skills and mechanisms for coping. They also help individuals in reducing their feelings of helplessness, isolation, and distress and use social resources to help in restoring individuals to their prior functional levels, as soon as practically possible (Hepworth, et al, 2002, p 83). Such social work intervention is done through listening, validation, acceptance, normalisation, reassurance, education, advocacy and brokering resources (Nash, et al, 2005, p 38). Crisis intervention can be specifically segregated into 7 stages, namely (a) establishment of communication and development of feelings with individuals that circumstances can become better, (b) assessment of situation, (c) exploration of available strengths and resources, (d) goal setting with the use of such strengths and resources, (e) implementation of plan, teaching of new skills and mobilisation of other support if required, (f) evaluation and adjustment of the plan and (g) follow up and termination of relationship (Hepworth, et al, 2002, p 83). It is important for social workers to be skilled in crisis intervention because of the constant demand upon them for helping people in crisis situations (Roberts, 2000, p 19). Social workers are liable to encounter clients with diverse needs, which may in turn require research, strategic planning and the providing of individualised person centred support (Roberts, 2000, p 19). The nature of crisis intervention work also calls for confidentiality and emotional separation in order to deliver services in a professional manner (Roberts, 2000, p 19). 3. Task Centred Approach The task centred approach emerged in response to the slow and inadequate results that were being achieved through traditional casework methods (Reid, 1997, p 134). Traditional casework methods in social work were felt to be of limited use because of their resource intensive nature, their lack of focus, and their ambiguous outcomes, which were difficult to assess and quantify (Reid, 1997, p 134). Reid and Shyne engaged in extensive study in the late 1960s to explore alternate approaches to casework and developed the task centred approach for social work practice, which called for limited but intensely focused intervention periods. The approach was essentially client oriented and required the social worker to act as a facilitator (Reid, 1997, p 134). With the task centred approach helping clients to improve their difficulties quickly, the process was soon adopted for replication and development in the United Kingdom (Reid, 1997, p 134). Studies on the task centred approach revealed that unfocused help, as was provided by the psycho-social approach and the case study method, over long periods, resulted in reduction of hope and self confidence on the part of the client (Nash, et al, 2005, p 42). It also resulted in negative dependency and unnecessary attachments to specific organisations or particular social workers (Nash, et al, 2005, p 42). It was also seen that the setting of time limits for achievement of specific outcomes helped in building expectations of the possibility of rapid change and enhanced participant energy and motivation (Nash, et al, 2005, p 42). Whilst the task centred approach proved to be practically beneficial for clients and also served, reduce and optimise utilisation of limited social work resources, it also facilitated a shift towards the person centred approach, the negation of the assumption of the professional being the only source of expertise, and helped in achievement of greater empowerment and reduction of oppression (Naleppa Reid, 1998, p 63). The task centred approach calls for attention to be paid to social and external issues that affect individuals rather than on perceiving individuals and their psychological histories to be the main cause of their difficulties (Naleppa Reid, 1998, p 63). The task centred approach involves a structured method wherein the social worker firstly assists the service user in articulating the problems in the ways perceived by service users (Hepworth, et al, 2002, p 87). The social workers subsequently helps the service user to detail and breakdown the problems, taking care to redefine them wherever necessary and helping the service user to locate important areas for action (Hepworth, et al, 2002, p 87). The social worker finally motivates the service user to categorise and prioritise his or her individual problem in line with his or her perceptions (Naleppa Reid, 1998, p 63). The social worker and service user thereafter work in partnership to (a) specify and identify outcomes, (b) agree to contracts and (c) review and assess progress. Social workers who use the task centred approach should be able to positively engage service users and instil trust and confidence (Hepworth, et al, 2002, p 87). Commonalities in Task Centred and Crisis Intervention Approaches Task centred approaches and crisis intervention methods appear to merge well in both theory and practice (Watson, et al, 2002, p 96). Social work research indicates that the use of these methods have proved to be effective with a wide range of clients. Both theories emerged in response to the apparently ineffective outcomes of case work approaches that were grounded in psychodynamic theory (Watson, et al, 2002, p 96). Both methods additionally focus on brief and short term interventions. They are connected to learning theory and based upon problem solving ideas (Watson, et al, 2002, p 96). Both these approaches call upon social workers to engage in participative and joint activity with service users, first to assess and analyse problems and their causes and then take action to deal with such problems (Sandoval, 2002, p 63). The application of these methods thus calls for the use of the person centred theory, the need to place the service user at the centre of the issue and the urgency of viewing the issue from his or her perspective (Sandoval, 2002, p 63). Social workers need to be very good listeners in order to be able to locate the real issues that are troubling service users and thereafter be able to help them with measures to tackle their difficulties (Sandoval, 2002, p 63). Like other social work methods, the task centred approach does have its limitations. It is in the first instance predicated upon the rationality of service users and their willingness to work with social workers (Nash, et al, 2005, p 53). It is also difficult to apply it without appropriate agency support. Despite such limitations the two approaches continue to be very useful, especially because of their instrumentality in increasing empowerment and their integral anti-oppressive approach (Nash, et al, 2005, p 53). The methods increase the abilities of service users through the inculcation of new skills and allow them to deal, not just with their current situations but with future circumstances of difficulty and oppression (Nash, et al, 2005, p 53). Conclusions Social work practice is influenced by many factors that require the taking account of the perspectives of service users, social workers, agencies and society. The approach of individual workers is bound to be influenced by numerous factors that can leave them confused and looking for guidance in their task of assisting service users in difficulties. The task centred approach and the crisis intervention theory provide useful tools to service users to assess the true conditions of service users, participate with them in structured, time bound and joint resolution of problems and empower them to face and overcome oppression. Social workers do however need to understand the implications of these theories and refrain from labeling their actions in all difficult situations to be task centred or critical intervention in nature. The true understanding of the potential and use of these theories will help them significantly in their practice scenarios.

Investigate whether firelighter, wood, ethanol, paraffin or wax contains the most energy :: GCSE Chemistry Coursework Investigation

Investigate whether firelighter, wood, ethanol, paraffin or wax contains the most energy Energy In Different Fuels Aim: I am going to investigate which fuels contain the most energy between; firelighter, wood, ethanol, paraffin and wax. Prediction: I think that the fuel that contains the most energy is the one that produces the highest rise in temperature of the water. I know this because†¦ Heat + fuel + oxygen => CO2 + H20 + energy. The energy realised is heat and light energy, which is dependent on the chemical potential energy in the fuel. The greater the chemical potential energy the more energy is transferred as heat and light; the greater the rise in temperature. And because of the fire triangle: tri2.gif (22406 bytes) Apparatus: List: Stop watch Thermometer Splint Clamp Matches Boiling tube Heat proof mat Fuels: Firelighter, Wood, Ethanol, Paraffin, Wax. Method (Preliminary test): first of all, I will make sure I take all of the safety precautions, I.e. tie back long hair, use goggles and make sure the room is well ventilated. Secondly I will set out the apparatus and get all the equipment from the list (shown on the previous page). Using the measuring cylinder, I will put 20cm3 of distilled water into a boiling tube, and take the starting temperature. In order to make this a fair test I will burn the fuel for one minute only, use 20cm3 of water and make sure the tip of the fuel’s flame is under the boiling tube. After the minute is up, I will blow out the flame or place the lid of the fuel over it, (cutting off the oxygen). I will then take the finial temperature. Then I will repeat the experiment for the other four fuels, in order to establish which two fuels produced the highest rise in temperature of the water. Method - Comparison: I will then compare these two fuels by heating them until they get to a certain temperature noting down the time every time the temperature increases by 10 °C in order to form a scatter graph using line of best fit. I will use step one and most of step two from the preliminary test (first of all, I will make sure I take all of the safety precautions, I.e. tie back long hair, use goggles and make sure the room is well ventilated. Secondly I will set out the apparatus and get all the equipment from the list (shown on the previous page). Using the measuring cylinder, I will put 20cm3 of distilled water into a boiling tube,) I then heat the water using the first fuel until it rises to 100 °C, noting the time every 10 °C starting from 20 °C.

MBA admission

My long-term career goal is to manage a high-tech company in the field of electronics and communications. With over six years of experience in the technical aspects of high-tech product development, I bring considerable technical knowledge to this task, and hope to compliment this knowledge with a firm understanding of business fundamentals provided by the McCombs School of Business.My personal ackground is no less of an asset, as it allows me to understand people and business issues from a unique and mature perspective. I grew up in India and obtained a Bachelors and a Masters degree in Electrical Science from Delhi University. After that I attended the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur and earned a second Masters degree in the field of laser technology. My professional career began in 1995 when I was hired by HCL-Hewlett Packard to work on computer hardware design in an office outside of Delhi.It was my first direct experience with state-of-the-art technology and the exciting e xperience convinced e to pursue a career in the high-tech arena. Within nine months, I traveled to the Netherlands to work as a consultant for Tulip Computers NV, then the largest manufacturer of computers in Europe. After six months abroad, I returned to India but was soon transferred by my parent company to NCR Corporation in South Carolina.Before I could be recalled, I left HCL-Hewlett Packard and looked for another Job since I had decided to settle in the United States. I worked briefly for an ill-fated start-up, but left when the company moved its operations to China. I started my current position at American Megatrends, Inc. , (AM') in 1998 and have been employed here for over three years. IVe been working on high-tech motherboard design and have worked my way up to the position of team leader.AMI has offered me a unique opportunity I haven't had in other positions: the opportunity to participate in all the steps of product development. As a pure engineering company, AMI has v irtually no high level management and the engineer is responsible for everything from product conception, to development, to manufacturing and marketing! I have seized upon this opportunity and greatly expanded my understanding of product development beyond the design stage. I interact very closely with the manufacturing group and have come to understand production issues.Understanding how our products are mass produced at the plant, and especially how the factory workers utilize the machines for manufacturing, has given me a perspective on human and material capital which will be of great use in management. I have also worked closely with the sales and marketing division, and have occasionally even traveled to customer sites. While I have gained much practical experience (both in terms of technology and in terms of leadership) through my work, I cannot see myself in the same position fifteen years from now.I want to take my electronics firm into a new direction and believe at tn th is vision can best be accomplished trom a position ot management. I have realized from my six years of work experience that a strictly engineering background is not sufficient to enable me to reach my goals. A sound understanding of business fundamentals, that can be obtained through the McCombs School of Business, will help me develop the management skills I need to analyze business situations and manage resources rationally.An MBA will build upon my practical experience and allow me to achieve a position of leadership. My personal struggle to obtain the life I have now has imbued me with an ambition to grow as an individual and to give back to the society that has given me so much. My practical work experience and unique outlook on life contribute toa compassionate leadership style and an ability to understand the needs of people from all levels of society.

Corruption Showed in A Raisin in the Sun Essay

The play A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry was written to portray the lives of African Americans during the great depression era of the United States. This story is about a family’s struggle with money, prejudice, life and how obstacles can get in the way of accomplishing a dream. The story A Raisin in the Sun money has the ability to corrupt people as shown when Walter invests money into a liquor store, when he walks away from his wife when she tells him that she is pregnant, and when he considers selling his mothers† house to Mr. Lindner. Walter Younger is very dissatisfied with his life. He decides to invest in a liquor store with his good friend Bobo an this man Willy who he dosent know. Willy takes there money and runs leaving Walter with an empty pocket and an empty dream. Which changes the man that Walter is. Mama exclaimed,†No . . . something has changed. You something new, boy. In my time we was worried about not being lynched . . . You ain’t satisfied or proud of nothing we done. I mean that you had a home; that we kept you out of trouble till you was grown; that you don’t have to ride to work on the back of nobody’s streetcar—You my children—but how different we done become.† Mama is telling Walter that he dosent need to worry about the money that life was about family and togetherness and he needs to stop relying on the money for the happiness in life. Ruth become pregnant and she’s pondering on whether she should have an abortion or not. When Walter return home she planned to tell him so he can help her make a decision. When he returns home Mama says,†You†¦you are a disgrace to your father’s memory.† Mama is disappointed in her son for not stepping up and taking action in stopping Ruth from having an abortion.. She wants him to be a good man like his father was, but he’s changing into a bitter man due to the check that his mother has received. When the Younger’s arrive at their new home in Clybourne Park Walter was making a decision. He was enlightening the family on how he could sell this house to Mr. Lindner an receive more money. Mama says disappointingly to Walter,†You making something inside me cry, son. Some awful pain inside me.† Again Mama is very disappointed in the decisions her son is making in life. She wants him to get together and realize that his satisfaction is his life with his family in their new home. Walter Younger has been changed by the dissatisfaction’s in life by how the check money has affected him by, investing money on a liquor store, ignoring Ruth’s abortion, and when he was deciding on taking Mr. Lindnder†s offer. The power of the money has taken over Walter. He was a great man like his father and all Walter wanted to do was make his family get what they deserved in their lives. He wants them to to become the best they can be. But that power for greediness has taken over him and changed him into a different person A person his own mother didn’t recognize. We can all learn from Walter Younger that money can corrupt oneself in without one knowing.

Gender-Friendly Military essays

Gender-Friendly Military essays Pride, morale and efficiency of the United States' Armed Services may be being toyed with by a rave of "gender equality". Military readiness and defensive ability of the United States are being jeopardized by the debate to be a kinder, more equal military. Since the Second World War the United States has been known for its supremacy in military capability, however there is a new challenge for these Armed services. Many new opinions see the military as a shining example of how a glass ceiling can deny women of their chance to compete equally with men. Traditionally shadowed with hard corps discipline, courage and challenging curricula, the United States has kept a combat ready force since we have become the superpower. However a new breed of soldier is to be implemented, one of the couch potato age. Why the couch potato standard? Because the former grueling and challenging training standards have been modified as of late to accommodate people of all physical abilities and people of bo th genders. Radicals have made their points clear that they believe that women belong everywhere men are in the Armed Forces. Females are gradually becoming more and more influential in today's military, meeting the new standards, and leading ground to a more gender friendly, but less combat friendly warfare. Conservatives state that the Armed Forces of the United States are being treated to much as a job force and not enough like a defense force. Women are expecting to be treated fairly and have equal opportunities in a job that they are generally not prepared for; This "gender equality" is leading to a weaker, kinder, and less productive military. But the equality that is valued so preciously in America is at stake. There must be a decision made, between the gender friendly service, and perhaps the harsh reality that does not include women on the front lines and in the trenches. Since the evolution to the All-Volunteer Force in nineteen seventy-three,...

Pope Clement VII Profile

Pope Clement VII Profile Pope Clement VII was also known as: Giulio de Medici Pope Clement VII is noted for: Failing to recognize and deal with the significant changes of the Reformation. Indecisive and in over his head, Clements inability to stand strong against the powers of France and the Holy Roman Empire made an unstable situation worse. He was the pope whose refusal to give Englands king Henry VIII a divorce touched off the English Reformation. Occupation and Role in Society: Pope Places of Residence and Influence: Italy Important Dates: Born: May 26, 1478, Florence Elected pope: Nov. 18, 1523 Imprisoned by the Emperors troops: May, 1527 Died: Sept. 25, 1534 About Clement VII: Giulio de Medici was the illegitimate son of Giuliano de Medici, and he was raised by Giulianos brother, Lorenzo the Magnificent. In 1513 his cousin, Pope Leo X, made him archbishop of Florence and cardinal. Giuliano influenced Leos policies, and also planned some impressive works of art to honor his family. As pope, Clement wasnt up to the challenge of the Reformation. He failed to understand the significance of the Lutheran movement and allowed his involvement in Europes political sphere to reduce his effectiveness in spiritual matters. Emperor Charles V had supported Clements candidacy for pope, and he saw the Empire and the Papacy as a partnership. However, Clement allied himself with Charles longtime enemy, Francis I of France, in the League of Cognac. This rift eventually resulted in imperial armies sacking Rome and imprisoning Clement in the castle of SantAngelo. Even after his confinement ended several months later, Clement remained under imperial influence. His compromised position interfered with his ability to deal with Henry VIIIs request for an annulment, and he was never able to make any viable decisions regarding the upheaval that the Reformation had become. edited by Kenneth Gouwens and Sheryl E. Reissby P. G. Maxwell-Stuart

Zheng He and the Treasure Fleet Timeline

Zheng He and the Treasure Fleet Timeline Zheng He is justly famous as the commander in chief of seven voyages of Ming Chinas treasure fleet, between 1405 and 1433. The great Muslim eunuch admiral spread the word of Chinas wealth and power as far as Africa and brought countless emissaries and exotic goods back to China. Timeline June 11, 1360- Zhu Di born, fourth son of future Ming Dynasty founder. Jan. 23, 1368- Ming Dynasty founded. 1371- Zheng He born to Hui Muslim family in Yunnan, under birth name of Ma He. 1380- Zhu Di made Prince of Yan, sent to Beijing. 1381- Ming forces conquer Yunnan, kill Ma Hes father (who was still loyal to the Yuan Dynasty) and capture the boy. 1384- Ma He is castrated and sent to serve as a eunuch in the Prince of Yans household. June 30, 1398-July 13, 1402- Reign of the Jianwen Emperor. August 1399- Prince of Yan rebels against his nephew, the Jianwen Emperor. 1399- Eunuch Ma He leads Prince of Yans forces to victory at Zheng Dike, Beijing. July 1402- Prince of Yan captures Nanjing; the Jianwen Emperor (probably) dies in palace fire. July 17, 1402- The Prince of Yan, Zhu Di, becomes the Yongle Emperor. 1402-1405- Ma He serves as Director of Palace Servants, the highest eunuch post. 1403- Yongle Emperor orders the construction of a huge fleet of treasure junks at Nanjing. Feb. 11, 1404- Yongle Emperor awards Ma He the honorific name Zheng He. July 11, 1405-Oct. 2 1407- First voyage of the Treasure Fleet, led by Admiral Zheng He, to Calicut, India. 1407- Treasure Fleet defeats pirate Chen Zuyi at Straights of Malacca; Zheng He takes pirates to Nanjing for execution. 1407-1409- Second Voyage of Treasure Fleet, again to Calicut. 1409-1410- Yongle Emperor and Ming army battle the Mongols. 1409-July 6, 1411- Third Voyage of Treasure Fleet to Calicut. Zheng He intervenes in a Ceylonese (Sri Lankan) succession dispute. Dec. 18, 1412-August 12, 1415- Fourth Voyage of the Treasure Fleet to the Straits of Hormuz, on the Arabian Peninsula. Capture of the pretender Sekandar in Semudera (Sumatra) on return trip. 1413-1416- Yongle Emperors second campaign against the Mongols. May 16, 1417- Yongle Emperor enters the new capital city at Beijing, leaves Nanjing forever. 1417-August 8, 1419- Fifth Voyage of the Treasure Fleet, to Arabia and East Africa. 1421-Sept. 3, 1422- Sixth Voyage of the Treasure Fleet, to East Africa again. 1422-1424- Series of campaigns against the Mongols, led by the Yongle Emperor. Aug. 12, 1424- Yongle Emperor suddenly dies of a possible stroke while fighting the Mongols. Sept. 7, 1424- Zhu Gaozhi, the eldest son of the Yongle Emperor, becomes the Hongxi Emperor. Orders a stop to the Treasure Fleet voyages. May 29, 1425- The Hongxi Emperor dies. His son Zhu Zhanji becomes the Xuande Emperor. June 29, 1429- The Xuande Emperor orders Zheng He to take one more voyage. 1430-1433- Seventh and final Voyage of the Treasure Fleet travels to Arabia and East Africa. 1433, Exact date unknown- Zheng He dies and is buried at sea on the return leg of the seventh and  final voyage. 1433-1436- Zheng Hes companions Ma Huan, Gong Zhen and Fei Xin publish accounts of their travels.

Philosophy on Dualism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Philosophy on Dualism - Essay Example Dualism graces its roots to as far back as Zarathushtra, although Plato and Aristotle also dealt with the possibility of existence of an incorporale souls that actually bore the faculties of intelligence and wisdom. Their conclusion is that "people's intelligence (a faculty of the mind or soul) could not be identified with, or explained in terms of, their physical body" (Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.). The difference in the properties of mental and physical realms supports the validity of dualism. Minds are observed to have subjective qualities such as sensations which cannot be reduced to something physical. These experiences then are deemed to be from of different origin than the physical body. "There is no place in the brain where electric stimulation can cause a person to believe or decide. Although our thoughts can be true or false our brain states cannot be true or false. Nobody can tell what we are thinking by measuring brain waves. We must be asked what we are thinking" (AllAboutPhilosophy.org). On the other hand, there seems to be a lack of rational understanding as to how an interaction could possibly take place between the brain and the mind. Simply, this arguments says that there is nothing such as supernatural or other dimension that can explain this interaction thus the mental and physical realm must be one. Another argument against dualism is that when the brain is damaged, brought by physical trauma, drug abuse and other diseases the mental powers are always affected. "The argument holds that if the brain and the mind were actually separate, our mental powers would not be comprised" (AllAboutPhilosophy.org). This views leads us to think that there is/are factor/s that dictate the well-being of the mind, not just the physical body. Mental heath then is a factor of many other things aside from physical health. In the end it is found that the arguments for dualism is strong. Indeed, things such as emotions or feelings which does not necessarily emanate from the physical body are from different realms and they affect the mind. Monism Monism is associated with any philosophical view which says that "there is unity in a given field of inquiry, where there is not to be expected" (Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.). Thus there are philosophers who stands on the belief that the universe is really just one thing, despite of its many facets, appearances, diversities. In theology, this is the belief in one God who holds everything. Just differ in what they target and how they count. There are actually many monisms, although they all have the attribute of oneness. We however focus on two historically important monism; the existence monism which targets concrete objects and counts by token and the priority monism which targets concrete objects and counts by basic token. However, "neither existence nor priority monism is accorded much respect in contemporary metaphysics, nor are they always properly distinguished. Indeed, the entire monistic tradition is often dismissed as being somewhere between obscure and ridiculous" (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosphy). Monism can be viewed as simply the opposite of dualism and pluralism. It particularly denies multiplicity of things and the distinction between body and soul, matter and spirit and other dualistic distinctions. Strengths

Final Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Final Project - Essay Example Mayo Clinic focuses on delivering the best healthcare services to all its patients and believes in handling most difficult cases with tertiary care. The hospital spends more than $500 million per year in its practice and research. It has been 150 years Mayo Clinic has been operating in the healthcare sector and provided continuous quality services to all its patients. The hospital encompasses world’s best practitioners along with wide array of treatment ranging from heart disease and cancer to urology and respiratory disorders. Mayo Clinic over the years has served large base of patients and has been continuously involved in medical research. There is wide range of departments in the hospital and it becomes essential to bring forth work collaboration amongst all the team members. The hospital comprises of majorly two divisions such as research department and department of medical facilities. However the departments can be further segmented such as internal medicine, health sciences research, surgery, pathology, laboratory medicine, etc. In such a scenario where there are multiple departments it becomes important to bring about synchronization so that intergroup conflict can be effectively avoided. There has been certain problems identified in the hospital which is adversely affecting the overall group productivity. The major issues are in the form of conflict in role within the groups, problems in terms of communication amongst team members, lack of group cohesiveness encompassing diverse members and inter group conflict. Role conflict has a major impact on group’s productivity. This problem majorly arises when there are diverse set of expectations from other team members. It can occur within a single role or across wide array of roles. Intra role conflict is majorly observed in situations where an individual is expected to perform different roles. Such as a medical

If diplomacy is correctly defined as being distinct from foreign Essay - 1

If diplomacy is correctly defined as being distinct from foreign policy, which diplomatic skills and qualities are essential in any foreign service - Essay Example These two concepts; foreign policy and diplomacy are used interchangeably. However this makes it critical and problematic when used in the sociological concepts and thus makes it quite critical and important to examine the nature of differences in the practice of both, diplomacy and foreign policy in the globalized world today (Constantinou and Hellmann). In the traditional international relations context, the link between diplomacy and foreign policy is seen and an â€Å"objective vs. tool† relationship (Constantinou and Hellmann), whereby diplomacy is considered as representing a â€Å"lesser tool of foreign policy†(James), and a communication and negotiation channel to objectively take up the foreign policy interests. Similarly in the traditional context Foreign policy is viewed as a practice where the main actors responsible for the effective functioning of the system, the bearers of sovereignty of a state or nation try to defend the internal interests of the nation or state in contrast to the external environment. Thus, in this perspective the concept of foreign policy turned out to be an outdated concept in the globalized world where the distinction between home and abroad is quite uncertain (Hill). In today’s globalized world the concept of Diplomacy as practiced in Foreign Service and foreign ministries has changed to a great extent. In the post collectivist era the governments had exerted on economizing ax more compared to their representation overseas and its management. The then need to save the tax revenue was backed by the idea to modernize the foreign services which in turn also meant to minimize the foreign services function. This had been the practice until the anti-collectivist era gained popularity. However after the emergence of Resident Ambassador the assessments of the foreign societies and the information pertaining to them took a new discourse in terms of diplomacy whereby it was communication that proved to be

Eliminating redundancy at Lion using Business Intelligence Platform Essay

Eliminating redundancy at Lion using Business Intelligence Platform - Essay Example In the report, the researcher has discussed about the Kirini, a Japanese based brewery company which has been brewing beer since its inception in 1888. Lion Nathan Ltd in Australia is wholly owned by subsidiary of Kirin after the merger. According to information obtained from its official website, Lion is a leading beverage and food company with a portfolio that includes many of Australia and New Zealand’s favourite brands. It was formed in 2009 under the name ‘Lion Nathan National Foods,’ but the name later changed to Lion when Kirin Holdings Company Limited completed its purchase of Lion Nathan and merged the business with National Foods in 2009 and it has owned this business since 2007. These companies before and after the merger belonged to the national economies of their host countries. The researcher posits to the effect that Lion employs close to 8,000 people across Australia and New Zealand and it boasts of a portfolio of market-leading, household-name bra nds in beer, spirits, wine, milk, fresh dairy foods, juice, cheese and soy beverages. The company has significantly contributed to the Australian and New Zealand economies. However, the problem emanates from the view that the merger acquisition by Kirin of Lion which is Australian based company may cause redundancy and problems in operation support services. As a result, the redundancy can lead to an increase in the operation costs if the problem is not fixed and this is likely to affect the company. If the problem not fix, explain why it will affect the company. Of notable concern is the factor that there are also competitors in the food and beverage industry where Lion operates and Heineken is the greatest competitor. In order to address the problem raised above, the initiative change is primarily concerned with reviewing the computer system used by the organisations before and after the merger to establish the changes required to turn around the fortunes of the organisation. In t his case, it is proposed that when solving this problem, a business intelligence Platform (real time) can be used to reduce the operational costs after the merger so as to improve the organisation’s productivity in order to gain a competitive advantage over the other rival competitors in the same industry. BIP is a computer based support system used in the decision making process and is based on factual data. According to Gartner (2007), BIP is comprised of mainly three categories namely information delivery (workflow and collaboration) as well as analysis. All information about the operations of the organisation is gathered and computed in detail where it is established if there is any area that may need change to ensure effective operation of the organisation. However, these two organisations have been using different systems where the BIP model was alien to Lion Nathan before the merger. The issues raised above are very important and they are likely to affect the company i f change is not done given that before the major, these two companies used different BI platforms which can pose a challenge to the merged company. In order to analyse the current performance of Lion, it will be imperative to carry out a financial analysis of the company in order to draw a comparison with its previous performance levels. Analysis of the current situation Lion is a company which operates in the food and beverages sector in Australia and it is a public company with various shareholders. The company is listed on the Australian stock exchange and all the data in the financial statements from 2009 to 2010 is quoted in Australian dollars. All the data used in the financial analysis for the company below has been retrieved from the company’s official website (http://www.lionco.com/2011/02/10/lion-nathan-national-foods-fy10-result/, 2010/11). The analysis of the organisation is mainly based on the following three important aspects namely expenses, revenue, net profit as well as return on investment for the three year period under survey. The financial analy

Bill of Rights Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Bill of Rights - Essay Example Amendment four People have the right to be safe in their houses, effects, and persons, against illogical seizures and searches, shall not be infringed, and no guarantees shall issue, but on likely cause, supported by affirmation or oath, and specifically describing the location of search, and the individuals or items to be seized. Amendment five No one shall be answerable for a capital, or any renowned crime, except on an indictment or a presentment of grand judges, in exception of cases occurring from naval or land forces, or in the military, when in real service in war or public danger times; nor shall any individual be subject to similar offense to be placed in danger of life or extremity, nor shall be forced in any criminal case to witness against himself, nor his life, property, or liberty be deprived without the correct law process, nor shall personal property be taken to be used publicly, without being justly compensated. Amendment six The accused shall enjoy the right to a qu ick and public trial, by a neutral judge of the district and state where the crime was committed, the district should have been determined by law, and to be made aware of the cause and nature of the allegation; to be dealt with the witness in opposition to him; to have an obligatory procedure for finding witnesses in his favor, and to be assisted by the counsel in defending him. Amendment seven At common law suits, where the value in disagreement exceeds twenty dollars, the jury’s right of trial shall be preserved, yet no reality by a judge shall be otherwise be reevaluated in any U.S. court, than in accordance to the common law. Amendment eight Extreme bail shall not be necessary, nor extra fines imposed, nor brutal and strange punishments imposed. Amendment nine The details in the Constitution, of particular rights, shall not be interpreted to disparage or deny others retained by citizens. Amendment ten Those powers not provided by the Constitution to the U.S, nor forbidden by it to the states, are set aside to the states respectively, or to the citizens. The amendments related to due process protections and criminal procedures protect the rights of the accused and the suspected persons, convicted criminals, and criminal defendants. The rights are all provided in the 4th 5th, 6th, and 8th amendments as discussed above (Bruns, 1986). Our group chose on five U.S citizens to interview in order to get a clear understanding of how the public is aware of the Human Rights and the procedures established by the amendments. The interviewees included a male University student, a soldier, a female lawyer, a business man, and a female town clerk. The group interviewed the five citizens basing on: their perceptions and awareness regarding the subject; knowledge on the violation of rights and protection; and knowledge on particular human rights institutions and the process of accessing them. The survey questions to the interviewees were: Have you ever heard of the U .S Constitutional Bill of Rights? Are you aware that the Constitution has a chapter on criminal procedures and protection of essential human rights? How much of the Bill do you have clear knowledge about? By how far have you read the U.S constitution? Do you think the rights are being exercised as provided? Are

Organizational Culture and Organizational Communication Essay

Organizational Culture and Organizational Communication - Essay Example Toyota is renowned for its production process, and its innovative management policies and culture. Toyota created and implemented the Just-in-Time method of inventory, which was revolutionary in nature. This concept has proven quite successful for the company. I am truly fascinated by this organizations managerial attributes and culture, which is why I chose to write about this organization. The culture at Toyota, described as ‘The Toyota Way’ is the core that drives the success of this organization. It lays out clear objectives for operations, Total Quality Management (TQM), customer service, employee management. Moreover, it aims to create a harmony amongst all the objectives. Even the logo of Toyota, is a symbol of how these values amalgamate. As we know, the Toyota logo consists of 3 ovular rings. The first ring symbolises the heart of Toyotas customers. The second ring symbolises the care taken by Toyota to manufacture its products. The third ring which joins the other two rings symbolises the joining of customers with their product and creates the ‘T’ of Toyota. (Appendix) Up to the Challenges: Toyota believes in creating value through their production process, and thus delivering high quality products and services to their customers. They plan on creating long term visions which can overcome possible hurdles. Moreover, they believe in accepting challenges and excelling in them through careful analysis before any decision. Kaizen: It means to improve in Japanese. This concept urges the employees of Toyota to keep improving and innovating through learning, creating sound infrastructure and, by promoting education within the organization. It believes that this will help deliver better and improved goods and services to the customer. "Something is wrong if workers do not look around each day, find things that are tedious or boring, and then

Bill of Rights Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Bill of Rights - Essay Example Amendment four People have the right to be safe in their houses, effects, and persons, against illogical seizures and searches, shall not be infringed, and no guarantees shall issue, but on likely cause, supported by affirmation or oath, and specifically describing the location of search, and the individuals or items to be seized. Amendment five No one shall be answerable for a capital, or any renowned crime, except on an indictment or a presentment of grand judges, in exception of cases occurring from naval or land forces, or in the military, when in real service in war or public danger times; nor shall any individual be subject to similar offense to be placed in danger of life or extremity, nor shall be forced in any criminal case to witness against himself, nor his life, property, or liberty be deprived without the correct law process, nor shall personal property be taken to be used publicly, without being justly compensated. Amendment six The accused shall enjoy the right to a qu ick and public trial, by a neutral judge of the district and state where the crime was committed, the district should have been determined by law, and to be made aware of the cause and nature of the allegation; to be dealt with the witness in opposition to him; to have an obligatory procedure for finding witnesses in his favor, and to be assisted by the counsel in defending him. Amendment seven At common law suits, where the value in disagreement exceeds twenty dollars, the jury’s right of trial shall be preserved, yet no reality by a judge shall be otherwise be reevaluated in any U.S. court, than in accordance to the common law. Amendment eight Extreme bail shall not be necessary, nor extra fines imposed, nor brutal and strange punishments imposed. Amendment nine The details in the Constitution, of particular rights, shall not be interpreted to disparage or deny others retained by citizens. Amendment ten Those powers not provided by the Constitution to the U.S, nor forbidden by it to the states, are set aside to the states respectively, or to the citizens. The amendments related to due process protections and criminal procedures protect the rights of the accused and the suspected persons, convicted criminals, and criminal defendants. The rights are all provided in the 4th 5th, 6th, and 8th amendments as discussed above (Bruns, 1986). Our group chose on five U.S citizens to interview in order to get a clear understanding of how the public is aware of the Human Rights and the procedures established by the amendments. The interviewees included a male University student, a soldier, a female lawyer, a business man, and a female town clerk. The group interviewed the five citizens basing on: their perceptions and awareness regarding the subject; knowledge on the violation of rights and protection; and knowledge on particular human rights institutions and the process of accessing them. The survey questions to the interviewees were: Have you ever heard of the U .S Constitutional Bill of Rights? Are you aware that the Constitution has a chapter on criminal procedures and protection of essential human rights? How much of the Bill do you have clear knowledge about? By how far have you read the U.S constitution? Do you think the rights are being exercised as provided? Are

The story Killings by Andre Dubus Essay Example for Free

The story Killings by Andre Dubus Essay The story Killings by Andre Dubus is about a man named Matt and his love for his son Frank. He is upset because his son has been killed by a man called Richard. Matts wife, older son, and his friends think that Richard should be killed too. His son wishes to kill the murderer of his younger brother, but Matt is even scared of the thought because doing so means that he would lose his second son, too. His wife also does not want to see Richard alive. In Killings, Matt is very angry at himself for the reason of not being able to protect his son and is forced to kill his sons murderer; however, at the end he is not very enthusiastic about it instead he is very upset and depressed. One of the reasons that Matt kills Richard is his own wife. She is very hurt by her sons death. She is always crying because she sees her sons murderer walking around in the stores all the time which kills her. Once Matt tells his friend Willis Ruth sees him too much. She was at sunny Hurst today getting cigarettes and aspirins and there he was. She cant even go out anymore. It is killing her (90). This explains how much of pressure he is under to avenge his sons death. This leads him to kill Richard even though he does not really want to kill him Another one of the reasons for Matts action is that Matts older son Steve wants to kill Richard. For example, when they leave after burying Frank to his graveyard, Steve turns to his family and states, I should kill him (89). This point out that Steve is also very hurt by his younger brothers death, who was only twenty one years old. He feels so helpless and wishes to kill Richard. Matt is very alarmed by this because he does want his son to kill anyone. If he commits murder, Matt would lose his second son, too. Matts friend Willis also suggests that he should kill Richard because Richard has always been cruel and violent. Once he shot a womans husband for her and dropped him off the bridge in the Merrimack River with a hundred pound sack of cement. He even covered his crime by saying that nobody helped the woman. This declares what kind of a man Richard is and what he has done to others. Now he has killed Frank which was very cruel of him, and Matts family believes that he has no right to live. Willis is also forcing Matt to believe that whatever his family thinks of doing to Richard is right. Willis urges Matt to kill Richard himself before someone in his family commits the act and he loses another family member. Just so everyone would be relieved and think that justice has been done.

Micro Cars Ltd of Sri Lanka

Micro Cars Ltd of Sri Lanka 1.0 Introduction Micro Cars Ltd was established in Sri Lanka in 1999 by the guidance of Chairman/CEO of Micro Cars Ltd Dr. Lawrence Perera with the intention of introducing (manufacturing) low cost but high quality vehicles for the county. The intention became reality with the launch of their first car in 2003 which was well recognize and accepted by the society due to lots of hard efforts on Research Development that put-in over many years to make the company dream reality and in the later stages Micro Cars Ltd positioned as National Car Manufacturer where they earned the patent for small city cars too. Further with the aim of growing and expanding the businesses, Micro Cars Ltd came up with different type of attractive vehicles which some are purely manufactured in Sri Lanka and others which are assembled in Sri Lanka with the same intention that they had earlier, which is manufacturing low cost but high quality vehicles for the county. So when looking at the types of the vehicles which Micro introduced Tractors, Trucks, Light Trucks, Buses, MPVs, SUVs and Cars can be considered. Out of those product types the SUV segment was the really attracted segment by the most of the people in Sri Lanka where the Micro Rexton II was a hit product in that SUV segment where it created threat for other average SUVs in the market due to its less price (but high quality) compared with the other SUVs that manufactured by the leading SUV makers in the world like Mitsubishi, Hyundai etc. Further the government of Sri Lanka also gave great support to this company as it is a purely Sri Lankan venture and government in a position to buy more vehicles from Micro Cars Ltd for government needs and it also resulted in increasing the profits of Micro Cars Ltd. As the demand goes up for the Micro Rexton II they increased their production to match with the demand and also with the intention of entering into the Asian markets. For that they expand their workshop areas and recruited more employees and let the employees work on shift basis like one set of people on day and the other set at night. So with the consideration of the previous track record or the milestones of the Micro Cars Ltd, the company it self in a position to consider on expanding their business to Singapore by exporting the Micro Rexton II with the intention of targeting it to the middle-upper class in the Singapore due to many potential factors in relation to the conditions of Singapore and also with the hope of competing with other average SUV in Singapore due to the less price of the Micro Rexton II. Therefore in order to find out the viability of exporting Micro Rexton II to Singapore a marketing audit will be carries out where it helps to get an idea about the different market conditions in the competitive market and its potentials where it give clear view about both positive and negative aspects like whether it will be survive or not. So from there, Micro Cars Ltd can decide whether to expand to Singapore or not. Furthermore it also necessary to conduct Marketing Plan where it support to overcome the negatives that occurred in the marketing audit for the purpose of maximizing profits with the inclusive of some areas like promotional mix, budgets, profit/loss statement and etc. 2.0 The Product Micro Cars Ltd is the only pure Sri Lankan automobile company in Sri Lanka that goes on continues improvement from the day it starts with increasing of its profits while making the public more satisfy by offering certifiable solutions to the traveling needs of majority of middle-upper class Sri Lankans. Along with their success in the Sri Lankan market their next plan is to enter into the Singapore automobile market by offering their most hit product in their history Micro Rexton II. Actually earlier the name Rexton was origin from SsangYong Motors in Korea and later they made strategic alliance with capital investment of Mercedes-Benz AG to support Engine Transmission technologies. When the time goes on Ssang Yong SUV were introduce directly to Sri Lankan from Korea by Ssang Yong Motors as Ssang Yong Rexton which is the older version without any collaboration with a Sri Lankan venture. Anyway the older version was not that much popular and it was failed in Sri Lanka due to some uncontrollable factors such as customer mind set that having on the Korean vehicles. But later Micro Cars Ltd made joint-hands with the Ssang Yong Motors Korea for the introduction of the Rexton II (newly version of Rexton) which was assembled locally in Micro Cars Ltd workshop. In relation to the stage of the product life cycle of the Micro Rexton II, it is in growth stage in Sri Lanka. But when considering on the situation in Singapore the other SUV already in the market are in the maturity stage. So as a result of that this will be a good advantage for Micro Cars Ltd to enter into the Singapore market to change the current stage of PLC. 2.1 Evaluate the product as an innovation as it is perceived by the intended market Basically this is the first time that the Micro Cars Ltd is expanding their businesses out of their boundaries. No matter whether Micro was making huge profits in the local market, but it can get negatively effected in foreign markets as the conditions are not the same as locally which means the competition getting differ from country to country. So it can be risky up-to some extent due to the huge competition that getting to this newly product from major SUV automakers of the world. With regard to the relative advantage of the Micro Rexton II over the other competitors, the SUV users can perceive the same advantages, benefits and features that available in other average SUVs in the Micro Rexton II as well. But all the things are not for high price like other competition brands but at reasonable price which is lower than the competitive SUVs. Also considering on the fuel consumptions with other brands Micro Rexton II is more fuel efficient SUV with Diesel engine. But most of other SUVs are not in much fuel efficient as those are with Petrol engines. (Other competitive SUVs are available in Diesel engines too, but price is even higher than the standard petrol SUV prices.) The unique design will give more prestigious outlook for the vehicle than other brands do. Also its more compatible to the Asians and their beliefs as most of Asians prefer their own country manufactured vehicles or vehicles that manufactures within their region. In relation to the complexity, theres no requirement to have special skills to drive Micro Rexton II as it is the same way of driving other SUVs. Further theres another advantage which is the Micro Rexton II can be purchased with minimum risk as it is recognize and certified SUV in Asia. The observability of this product is high. Because you dont need to educate to feel or experience the benefits of the SUV. One you inside in it, thats all you need and you can feel the difference of smooth driving. 2.2 Major problems and resistances to product acceptance based on the preceding evaluation. Relative advantage Quality and the condition of the Micro Rexton II is in competitive position compared with other competitive SUVs. But the price of it is lower than the other competitive brands. Compatibility Micro Rexton II is really compatible to the Singapore and with Asian atmosphere as the SUV is from the same region. Complexity Actually its the same way that we have to follow to use (drive) the Rexton II and there no any special skills required as it very easy to drive with automatic transmission. Trialability Basically this can be purchases with minimum economic risk in relation to the other brand and also the market value or the used value is at acceptable range. Observability actually you dont have to be educating to feel the features of the Rexton II. Because once you got into it, then you get to feel it automatically. 3.0 The Market 3.1.1 Geographical regions Singapore is one of the best well-developed country in the world as well as in the region with well managed stable economy. It covered by Malaysia from one side and Indonesia from the other side where 50% lands are assumed as urban areas while the remaining part have reserved for plantations and other purposes. The people who live their also experiencing good standard life with majority of acceptable income. 3.1.2 Forms of transportation and communication available in that region Transportation Transportation is one of the main component for each and every country no matter whether it is non-developed, developing or developed country. Because its very important aspect for all countries to move from place to another or to send some stuff from one location to another and it will be mode of easy access to different location where which connects boundaries. Considering the conditions of Singapore in relation to the transportation aspects it is the county that own one of the rich transportation systems in the region. As a result of that, the people from all around the world use Singapore as an easy access place and where they also use Singapore as transit place. The types of transportation that available in Singapore as follows. Road transportation Actually the on-ground transportation or the road transportation is the most common cheapest mode transportation method that available all around the world even in the poor countries as well. But in relation to the situation in Singapore this common method is using in very advance manner where they own some expressways that length 150 Km and other A-class roads. Basically these 3262 Kms are connecting the Singapore from all around. All the busses, cars including taxies and other ground vehicles are got to use this method. Rail Transport Mainly the rail transportation in Singapore can be classified into two segments such as Mass rapid transit (MRT) and Light rail transit (LRT) which totally consist of 138.2 Km. The mass rapid transit (MRT) is currently running as four line transportation system with total length of 118.6 Km with the collection of 70 stations. Further the remaining light rail transit (LRT) is having 14 stations with length of 19.6 Km. Ports and Harbors There are totally 8 ports in Singapore and most of the ports which is 7 ports are handling by the PSA International which earlier names as Port of Singapore Authority. Further Singapore is well knows for worlds busiest port â€Å"Jurong† which handled 1.04 billion tons per year. (Appendix 2) Air Transportation In relation to aviation industry Singapore is assumed as aviation hub by civil aviation authority of Singapore where relatively they names the Singapore â€Å"Changi† airport as the air-hub. Further there are 5 air bases in Singapore and also five airlines are currently operating in Singapore leading by the Singapore Airlines where it connects 70 cities around the world. Especially the â€Å"Changi† airport is consisting with 4 terminals with ability of handling 64 million people each year. Communication As stated before Singapore is a well developed country in most areas and they are very rich in technology wise too. Because most of the technological aspects are born or available in Singapore and all our minds goes to Singapore if we talks about some technological aspect like mobile phone or gaming item. Thats because of the picture that they have buildup in technological perspective over the past years. So due the advancement or richness of the technology they are also armed up with communication aspects too as there are direct linkage between the technology and the communication. Because some times we cannot even have the word communication without the technology. So with regard to the communication methods in Singapore following items can be considered. Telephones Singapore is one of the best telecommunication providers in the world including SingTel and the Singapore Telecom. Currently they are running with1.857 millions fixed lines. Recently their facilitating their services in excellent manner by adding numerous additional options to their services. Payphones (Public phone booths) Basically payphones can be classified into to such a card-operated phones and coin-operated phones. Both local and international call can be taken with the use of card-operated phones but only the local calls can be taken by using the coin operated phones. Mostly these booths are located in busiest public places like railway stations and bus stops. Mobile phones This is the most convenient and common communication method in a country like Singapore due to its technological advancement and richness. Not only in Singapore but also in many countries around the world are use to have it or more comfortable with it because of the regular use of it. Further the mobile phone usage is very rich in Singapore where the mobile phone services such as 3G, mobile internet and etc are handling by SingTel or M1. Internet Internet also same as the mobile phones where it also frequently use by majority of people in developed countries for their different kind of expectations like business needs, entertainment needs , educations needs and etc. Actually Singapore is the most wired location in Asia. As same as mobile service providers, there mainly three internet service providers in Singapore leading by the SingNet. Broadcasting In relation to the broadcasting in Singapore all the media station both Television and Radio are owned by the government. All the 7 television channels and 14 Radio channels are operating by the MediaCorp. In addition to that it also available cable TV and IPTV facility too. Postal Services This can be considered as one of the oldest communication methods of delivering stuffs. The authority for these services in Singapore is Singapore post Pvt Ltd where it handles wide range of postal network, postal agents and stamp vendors. 3.1.3 Consumer buying habits Consumer buying habits is very important factor to be considered in international marketing as the consumer behavior is differing from market to market and also from country to country as well. So identifying different behavior of the different customers will be vital. Because then only the company will be able to deal with them positively in the aim of achieving advantages to the company as the company can come up with different strategies to handle the different people in different manner in a way that satisfy both the customer and the company too. So in relation to the product-use patterns in Singapore it depend on the type of the product like whether its a FMCG (fast moving consumer good) or whether its luxurious product. Normally they are using FMCGs on daily basis for their regular needs while they use their luxurious goods occasionally. But sometimes our product like Micro Rexton II can be use occasionally and for the daily purposes as well due to its reliability factors. With regard to the product features preferences, the FMCG products are prefer by most of the people in Singapore and they tend to buy those in multiple packs. With regard to the luxurious product, majority of them tend to go for new models periodically. So as we are considering on our proposed product the Micro Rexton II, it will be a luxurious product. So the people in Singapore tend to use this or likes to experience it due to its attractive unique design and other considerable factors like fuel efficiency and the price affordability. The shopping habits also may differ according to the location. But in Singapore lots of goods are available under one roof. But a product like automobile wont be able to find in common places. Normally those are located in specialized attracted places like showrooms. So we Micro cars Ltd also located the newly Micro Rexton II in our showroom in Singapore which named as Micro Cars International (Pvt)Ltd a fully owned subsidiary of the mother company in Sri Lanka and also fully coordination by Micro Cars Ltd in Sri Lanka. 3.1.4 Distribution of the product Micro Cars International (Pvt) Ltd is mainly targeting on the end consumers in Singapore that falling under middle-upper class. Basically the business/operations in the Singapore is mostly handle by the mother company Micro Cars Ltd. But due to some factors like less knowledge about ruling, taxing, clearing and other kind of local procedures, we Micro Cars Ltd appoint an agent for Micro Cars International (Pvt) Ltd to get things done in Singapore such as some tasks like vehicle clearing from the ports, taxation, registration and etc behalf of Micro Cars International (Pvt) Ltd in Singapore. But all the important work that affect on the operations or the core value of the business of Micro Cars International (Pvt) Ltd will directly handle by mother company Micro Cars Ltd and with supportiveness of the appointed agent. Considering on the distribution channel Micro Cars International (Pvt) Ltd is not much engage in distributing it in Singapore as it is not FMCG product but a luxurious p roduct. Because people who needs it will come for an inspection and we are inviting them to come and inspect it in our showroom in Singapore. 3.1.5 Advertising and promotion Advertising and promotion should be there in the action to achieve the customer awareness towards the product. The usage of the different advertising and promotional tools may depend on the type of the product. So as the Micro Rexton II is targeting on the end consumers we directly communicate to the end consumers through our advertisements and other promotional campaigns. With regard to the advertising methods that can be use to market Micro Rexton II we can advertise in some electronic medias like TV and internet. Further with the print media it can be publish on automobile magazines and sports magazines. Also in the promotional methods it can propose to give basic first free service for fist 100 customers. In addition to that we are expecting take part in the trade shows and automotive shows by displaying their newly Micro Rexton II. 3.1.6 Pricing strategy Customary mark-ups The customary mark-ups will be depend on expectation of the company which means will depend on the amount that they want to earn from each unit. So Micro cars Ltd also having different mark-ups depending on the project where it will differ from project to project depending on its nature and the expectations. According to this project of exporting Micro Rexton II Micro Cars Ltd will keep 23.5%. 3.2 Relative competitors to Micro Rexton II in Singapore There will be huge competition for Micro Rexton II in Singapore at the initial stage of their expanding procedure that will come-in from the other average SUV makers in the world such as Mitsubishi, Nissan, Hyundai and Suzuki. The in detail information or the comparison between each mentioned competitors as follows. Competitors products as follows. Make Model Mitsubishi Outlander Nissan X-TRAIL Hyundai SantaFe Suzuki Grand Vitara The features of the all above models can be seen at the appendix 3. Competitors prices are as follows Make Model Price (USD) Mitsubishi Outlander 92000 Nissan X-TRAIL 100000 Hyundai SantaFe 78000 Suzuki Grand Vitara 87000 When we considering about the advertising and promotional methods, all these companies are in the aim of providing luxurious products to the market. So as a result of that majority of the competitors are using general advertising and promotional methods which some advertising methods such as TV advertisements, internet advertisement, bill boards, magazines while using discounting programs and trade show promotions as promotional methods. Further with regard to their distribution channels most of them are doing their businesses through their agents in Singapore where the agents have the full right to handle most of operations within the country. 3.3 Government participation in the marketplace Development or the growth of a any kind of company can be achieve easily up-to some extent, if the government of that specific country is supporting on the operation by giving lots of benefits from the government side. Further especially in the international businesses, basically there will be minimum of two countries engage in that process to get some thing (goods or services) into the country (importing) or giving it out from the country (exporting). So if the both governments are in positive mode to help on these to gain advantages for both countries, then it will be a really good push for a company to operate there businesses in overseas with less obstacles. In addition to that there should be procedure that should follow by each and every company who enters to the Singapore for their ventures. Some of those briefly explained regulations are as follows. Any company will come to a conclusion whether to expand their businesses to overseas or not, by looking at the results that they gain through their different studies that they done in relation to specific industry where they hoping to expand. So by following that procedure Micro Cars Ltd has decided to expand their businesses to Singapore by introducing their unique product Micro Rexton II to the Singapore market through Micro Cars International (Pvt) Ltd especially to the people in middle-upper class who tend to use average SUVs. So initially they need to register their business (Micro Cars International (Pvt) Ltd) as a company under the required authority in Singapore which named as â€Å"Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority of Singapor (ACRA)†. Then they need to active their custom accounts under the Singapore customs for relevant monitoring and other processes of the customs authority. Further they will be able to get a special license (if required) for their own tax benefits in Singapore after complete understanding and finalizing negotiations between the two governments. Then there will be tax benefits for product (Micro Rexton II) under this project in Singapore and the government of Sri Lanka can offer some reasonable tax releases for Singapore projects in Sri Lanka. In relation to this matter the government of Singapore comes to understanding with the Sri Lankan government to charge 10% of custom tax in Singapore instead of charging 20% while having 2% GST instead of having 7%. Additionally as mentioned in the earlier stages, the government of Sri Lanka is always behind the Micro Cars Ltd and their proposed subsidiary {Micro Cars International (Pvt) Ltd} by giving them the maximum support and benefits that can offer by the government side due to the nationality atmosphere of the company as the company is fully localize venture where the money will never run out of the county. Especially on that way the government of Sri Lanka will never charge any tax on this project which is exporting the Micro Rexton II to Singapore. So due to the tax benefits that the Micro Cars Ltd getting from the both government for their export they will be able to offer Micro Rexton II at really affordable price to the Singapore market which will be big headache for other SUV competitors in Singapore. PART Two Preliminary Marketing Plan Executive summary The preliminary marketing plan is the main part of this report where it covers major areas of the expansion process such as promotional mix, distribution, price determinations and the budgets. Basically it start with the main objectives that has targeted on specific target market of middle-upper class in the aim of creating brand awareness by fulfilling the stylish traveling needs of the people in Singapore. The usage of promotion mix is in good stands in relation to operations where the company interest in using such media tools like electronic media for TV advertisements, internet advisements and for the electronic bill boards while they tend to use print media like news papers, magazines and billboards. Further it also interest in personnel selling where they specifically targeting on the corporate customers. In addition to that they are focusing in participating for trade shows by displaying their vehicle too. The transportation between two countries will be done by the sea transportation method where it starts from Colombo port to the destination port â€Å"Jurong† in Singapore. There are special document to be shown at the destination port such as Exhaust emission test report, Windscreen test report, Vehicle data card, Vehicle registration documents and Manufactures letter to confirm the date of manufacture as this is an automobile transportation and these document are in addition to the general documents such as bill of lading, dock receipt, commercial invoice and statement of origin. Basically all the important operations handle by the special internal management team which appointed by the mother company and additionally the company has appointed an agent for the purpose of handling localize tasks. Regarding the taxes in Singapore perspective the government of Singapore along with Singapore customs charge 10% custom duties based on the value of the product while they charge 2% GST based on CIF value. Regarding the payment methods, the company focus is to go with consignment method which will be an advantage for Micro Cars International (Pvt) Ltd. According to the current position of the company they are well establish and strong in their productions, financial, marketing and etc. 4.0 Preliminary Marketing Plan 4.1 Marketing Objectives Most of the SUVs in Singapore are highly expensive and augmented. But demand has not gone down over the past few years even its expensive, therefore presenting extensively edge SUV will create more demand to Micro Rexton II due to its comparably low price, economies of scale and low labor cost. Current social situation and demand for products in Singapore is vastly attached with fashion and new trend and therefore the social demand will fulfill with the latest edge design of the Micro Rexton II. One of the other objectives is to creating a higher amount of customer benefit markup compared to other competitors. Expand the brand awareness through out the world using a country like Singapore will be ideal as it known as a travelers paradise and a business hub. Achieve more benefits from a country like Singapore, where it provides more benefits to private business sector of the country meanwhile they getting their own benefits. Target Market Unlikely in Sri Lanka, gender will not play a big role when buying a vehicle in a country like Singapore due to their westernization cultural influences and the level of educated people. Therefore promoting even a SUV will not limited to males but will reach every extent possible. After undergoing several researchers studies it is decided to promote Micro Rexton II to middle-upper income earners in the Singapore. Main assumption to target specially to that particular group is that, it is expected that to those income earners perceive this product as a value for money product. Because buying diesel consumption SUV is perceived as a very prestigious behavior. Even though target market consists of the customers who are affordable to the product, Micro Cars Ltd thinks on future potential customers as well. Expected sales and profits Basically this will depend on the ability of capturing the market and how its capture the market especially in a country like Singapore where in a situation that a huge competition among SUV makers going on. Also it depend on how the Micro Rexton II will promote itself to the market and how it can exceed the others competitors promoting patterns in order to get more concerns of the people towards Micro Rexton II. Capturing the customers at the very fist stage is not enough but need to keep it continuously. So based on the findings that we made through our studies we expect that there will be 200 units of sales per year and expecting USD 20 millions profit. Market penetration and coverage As Micro Cars International (Pvt) Ltd planning to establish their showroom in the capital city of Singapore, it will be much convenient for them to start and continue the marketing process. As most of the merchandising activities are centralized to the capital city, creating the initial demand and maintaining would be benefited from the location advantage. In order to penetrate the market extensive analysis of existing competitors and their core competencies are highly required. Because capturing the market in a highly competitive environment would be very difficult and competitive. Therefore well planned designs and quality control tools also will play a major role when penetrating the market. 4.2 Product adaptation or modification This is an exclusive product where that the new version of the Rexton which is named as Micro Rexton II was only available in Sri Lanka but no anywhere else. Because the appearance and the other relative stuff of the Rexton II is completely different from the earlier Rexton which is available all around the world. That is because, its totally assembled in Sri Lanka with locally manufactured items where only the engine and the transmission bringing from Korea. So we can assume Rexton II as a unique product that available in Sri Lanka. Basically the main advantage to Micro Cars Ltd is the price advantage that they can gain in Singapore markets as the Micro Rexton II can be offered at fewer prices compared to the other average SUV in the specific range. Also most of the parts of the Micro Rexton II such as body of the vehicle, mirrors, seats, and rubber components including the tires are fully manufactured in Sri Lanka and further they are hoping to add/replace more locally manufactured components to it in order to get more revenue for the country. The features and the specification of the Micro Rexton II can be seen in appendix 4. 4.3 Promotion mix In relation to the exportation of Micro Rexton II to Singapore an extensive promotional campaign will be conduct in order to capture the specific target market in the aim of increasing demand by conveying the benefits of this new Micro Rexton II to the customers. 4.3.1 Advertising The objectives of this advertising campaign will be to create awareness of the people and to make them more attractive by conducting creative methods. Media mix There are many types of advertising methods available in the industry, but all are not relevant to each and every product or service

Which Computer Is The Fastest :: essays research papers

Which Computer Is The Fastest What computer is the fastest? What computer is the easiest to use? What computer is number one in education, and multimedia? That's right, the Macintosh line of computers. A strong competitor in the realm of computing for a number of years, the Macintosh is still going strong. The reasons are apparent, and numerous. For starters, who wants a computer with no power? Macintosh sure doesn't! Independent tests prove that today's Power Macintosh computers, based on the PowerPC processor, outperform comparable machines based on the Intel Pentium processor. In a benchmark test, conducted in June 1995, using 10 applications available for both Macintosh, and Windows 3.1 systems, the 120-megahertz Power Macintosh 9500/120 was, on average, 51 percent faster than a 120-megahertz Pentium processor based PC. The 132-megahertz Power Macintosh 9500/132 was 80 percent faster when running scientific and engineering applications, and 102 percent faster when running graphics and publishing applications. You can understand why the education market is almost entirely apple based.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Recent surveys confirm that from kindergarten through college, Apple has cornered the market in education, and remains number one in this U.S. market. Apple Macintosh computers account for 60% of the 5.9 million machines in U.S. schools for the 1995-96 school year. Only 29% of schools use the Microsoft/Intel platform, and DOS only accounts for a measly 11%. Also it was reported that 18.4% of 4 year college students own the Macintosh. 55% of college students own a computer, and Apple's in the lead for that market too! The reason Apple says for this continued success is the Mac's ease of use.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  There is no doubt that the Macintosh is the easiest computer around. The scrolling menu bar is the first example. If a Macintosh menu is too long to fit on the screen, you can scroll down to see all of the items. Windows 95 menus, by contrast, don't scroll up or down. So if you put too many items into the Windows 95 Start button, some will remain out of reach, permanently! Windows 95 hierarchical menus can become confusing as they become more crowded. When you install many applications onto a PC, so they form two columns from the Start Programs menu, the menus may not be able to flow well together. You'll have to jump quickly across from menu list to menu list, which can be difficult to do. The second example I site is the better integration of hardware and software. Because Apple makes both the hardware and the operating system, the two work together easily; when a change is made at the hardware level, the software

A Writers Choice Essay -- Writing Style Styles Essays

A Writer's Choice "The words we use to communicate our impressions cannot alone constitute a vocabulary sufficient to describe style, but they are part of one†¦" (Williams 18-19). This excerpt from Joseph M. Williams' Style Toward Clarity and Grace conveys a common theme in his book: Style is complex, and it is a matter of choice. Although writers across the nation may have been taught similar features of style and therefore produce similar products, they may choose to use or disregard those elements of style at will. Writing parallels many other versatile fields - such as art, music, and dance - with the notion that in order to break the rules, one must first understand them. A creator needs a foundation to build on; in writing and style, this foundation is a combination of accuracy, consistency, clarity, and concision. Accuracy is arguably a facet of style. With their list of commonly misused words and expressions in Elements of Style, Strunk and White stress the importance of using language correctly and even identify its relationship with style. "Many of the words and expressions listed here are not so much bad English as bad style, the commonplaces of careless writing" (39). The authors do acknowledge that there is no ultimate authority who deems which words must be used over others, but their matter-of-fact tone and occasional jabs at writers who misuse certain words seem to forecast misfortunes for those who do not follow a recommended word usage. Williams is less concerned about such strict guidelines because "not all of us will agree on what counts as correct" (170). He attributes some rules to folklore, some to special formality, and a lot to personal choice. However, he acknowledges that precision may be ne... ...ingway was a renowned author said to have a distinct style: short sentences and paragraphs that used simple vocabulary. He also tended to avoid putting commas in places where many writers and language experts - Strunk and White, for example - would deem them necessary. And he won a Pulitzer Prize. Despite their solid rules and guidelines, Strunk and White never impose their own definition of style. Williams doesn't either; he depicts it, however, not as one entity but a flexible, evolving collection of writing applications. One can conclude, then, that style ultimately comes down to the methods that writers define and use to create their end results. Works Cited Strunk, William, and White, E.B. The Elements of Style. Needham, NY: Allyn & Bacon, 2000, 1979. Williams, Joseph M. Style Toward Clarity and Grace. Chicago: The University of Chicago Press, 1990.

Faith in the Things They Carried

Henry Dobbins wears his girlfriend's pantyhose around his neck for protection and comfort. He is much more confident when he equips the stockings, therefore they act as a talisman that shield him from the evils of war. â€Å"Dobbins was invulnerable. Never wounded, never a scratch†¦ No cover at all, but he just slipped the pantyhose over his nose and breathed deep and let the magic do its work† (O' Brine 112). O'Brien uses Dobbins as an example to show the implementation of faith and hope. Through Dobbins and his close relationship with the pantyhose, It Is shown how mentality can affect reality.The stockings not only display the importance of faith and a positive attitude, but also a yearning for femininity, revealing the softer side of Dobbins. They express his longing for love and home. With the stockings, Dobbins journeys through the war untouched and fearless. â€Å"It turned us into a platoon of believers†¦ ‘No sweat,' he said. The magic doesn't go awayà ¢â‚¬  (O'Brien 112). The leggings give Dobbins a of the other platoon members. They began to make the soldiers rely on superstition rather than rationality because the twists of the Jungle were unpredictable.Even after his girlfriend dumped him, Dobbins remained immaculately brave which means hat the power of the stockings did not come from love or his memories, but Dobbin's himself. â€Å"A heroic warrior whose victories†¦ Affirm the country fundamental goodness and power† (Gibson 510). He was able to find hope more than anyone else in the platoon and because of that, Dobbins is singled out as a simple, yet unique individual who can take on the obstructions and terrors of war by simply remaining himself. Throughout the war Lieutenant Jimmy Cross, the platoon leader, can't resist reminiscing about his hungering love for Martha.His anticipation for returning home after the war only grows heavier as his thoughts overrun his mind. This uncontrollability leads to Lavender's death on which Cross can't ever forgive himself for letting happen. â€Å"Lavender was dead. You couldn't burn the blame† (O'Brien 22). His guilt and remorse builds up too point where he tries to rid his mind of the tragedy by burning his memories of Martha, changing nothing. This is essential to understanding Cross' character because no matter what harm comes his way, he ties it back to Martha.Several years after the war, Lieutenant Cross visits O'Brien house ND tells him about how Martha gave him another photo at a college reunion. When O'Brien tells Cross that he wants to write a story about Martha and Cross, Cross replies, â€Å"Why not? Maybe she'll read it and come begging. There's always hope, right? † (O'Brien 28). In the war, Lieutenant Cross puts his faith in returning to Martha because it gives him something worth fighting for. He is completely broken when he finds out she doesn't love him, yet still loves her and wants to be with her.Likewise, O'Brien teac hes through Cross that many soldier's would have the high expectations f coming home after war to find their dreams come true, clearly that is not always the case. Even though Cross isn't fully satisfied, he still believes that there is a possibility that Martha will come back to him after O'Brien writes a story of him as brave, handsome and heroic. Muff need to persist, to listen, and to give them something to hold on to, something that gives them a sense of possibility' (Kowtowing 206). Both Martha and O'Brien offer Cross something to look forward to, a reason to keep his hopes up and remain positive.

Principles of Farm Animal Husbandry – Intensive and Extensive Farming

The terms intensive and extensive within farm animal husbandry refer to the methods animals are raised and processed. Intensive farming – Generally referred to as industrial and factory farming, this method is used to aid mass production of meats and dairy. Farm animals are kept in specially built units all year round in order to better control feeding and management. Examples of these can be found in battery cages to house chickens to aid egg collection, and farrowing crates to restrict sows within breeding units. Animals can be fed, watered and cleaned by automatic systems such as feed hoppers and drinkers. Extensive farming – Can also be linked with free-range, animals are able to freely move around and graze outdoors. This method is usually utilised in regions with a lesser demand, such as more open rural areas. There are some cases where animals can be part intensive and extensively farmed. For example, a sheep may spend the majority of it's time outdoors, but will be brought indoors and intensively farmed during lambing season. One of the negative impacts created by intensive farming is the increase in manure. Before intensive farming was introduced, farmers would ordinarily spread livestock manure onto fields for the crops benefit. However, some farmers have begun specialising in areas, crop growing or livestock, which means intensive livestock farmers have to store slurry, which can emit methane, and then travel to areas where this can be disposed of. However, this can be argued as a benefit to farmers who still produce crops as well as manage livestock as the slurry is readily available in great quantity to aid growth of their crops. Another problem appears to be the welfare of the farm animals. Instead of being able to display natural behaviours such as grazing, social and maternal instincts outdoors as with extensive farming, these animals are kept in confined spaces, which can cause signs of discomfort, lameness and even aggression. That being said, intensive farming is essential in order to keep supplying food to an ever growing population. The Five Freedoms The original concept first appeared within the Report of the Technical Committee to Enquire into the Welfare of Animals kept under Intensive Livestock Husbandry Systems, the Brambell Report, December 1965 (HMSO London, ISBN 0 10 850286 4). This acknowledged the need for farm animals to have freedom â€Å"to stand up, lie down, turn around, groom themselves and stretch their limbs† â€Å"The Five Freedoms are: 1. Freedom from hunger and thirst – By ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour;† Ensure troughs, nipple drinkers and any other feeding instruments are at an appropriate location and height for animals, and that these instruments are cleaned and checked for blockages on a daily basis. All cattle require that sufficient roughage be readily available. Sheep require fresh, clean water be available at all times. â€Å"2. Freedom from discomfort – By providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area;† Ensuring there is enough space for the animal to move freely and have fresh, clean bedding appropriate to that species, such as straw. A pigs resting area should remain dry, which can be achieved by being on a slightly higher level than its dunging area. â€Å"3. Freedom from pain injury or disease – By prevention or by rapid diagnosis and treatment;† Livestock housed intensively should be kept in buildings with an effective ventilation system and kept out of draughts to minimise respiratory problems. Monitoring for signs of disease, stress, illness, infestation and lameness is essential to ensure this can be dealt with appropriately and promptly. Ensuring all farm animals have appropriate vaccinations against diseases, such as bluetongue in cattle. Procedures should be in place to isolate and treat any injured or sick animal. Any animals should be humanely killed if found to be incurable. â€Å"4. Freedom to express most normal behaviour – By providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animals own kind;† Farmers should determine space allowance according to animal, class, age, and size. For example, DEFRA provide this table as an example of good practise within housed sheep – (1) Normal social interaction is important too, for example, pigs housed indoors are kept in groups after weaning, usually separated by gender. Toys, like footballs, can also help with the enrichment of the animal. â€Å"5. Freedom from fear and distress – By ensuring conditions and treatment to avoid mental suffering.† (2) Ensuring stock-keepers are fully trained and have the knowledge and skills to carefully manage any farm animal sympathetically, from being able to handle and herd the animals effectively, to providing accurate injury or illness care. Environment and Housing Requirements for Pigs The Welfare of Farmed Animals (England) Regulations 2003 states there are different requirements, in terms of space and temperature, dependant on the stage, size and class of pig. Though, some factors have to be taken into account throughout all types, such as comfortable and dry bedding, which can be seen in all the below images, as the college farm uses clean, fresh straw throughout. (3) (4) Farrowing Sows and Piglets – The image directly below shows a sow with ten piglets within the farrowing village in the college farm. This shows the sow and piglets have enough space to stand up and manoeuvre, inside and out of the arc. The above images show a drinker, providing clean fresh water, and a feeding trough providing pellets. Weaner and Rearing Pigs – The same regulations state the minimum unobstructed floor area available to each weaner and rearing pig should be at least – (5) The above picture shows the colleges pigs in first stage. Weaners and rearer pigs should have adequate space in order to exercise, feed and for all pigs to lie flat on their side simultaneously, which the above pictures demonstrate. The images also show feeding troughs are raised and at an accessible height for the pigs to feed comfortably and separately from resting areas. Dry Sows and Gilts – (6) (2) As well as being able to move around freely, the pigs resting area requires to be elevated in comparison to its dunging area to ensure their resting area remains clean and dry. Concrete slatted floors are used within the pig unit as this proves to be smooth and easy to keep hygienic and also not slippery which could lead to accidents and injury. Lighting, ventilation and temperature control is also vital to promote pig health. The college pig units provide natural lighting and ventilation within the roofs, the latter of which help remove noxious gases and control temperatures. Controlling the pig's feeds and bedding also helps maintain the appropriate temperature. As mentioned previously, the recommended temperature varies dependant on the category of pig, the table above shows this. Livestock Health and Welfare There are two main factors to be taken into account whilst discussing health and welfare, those being mental and physical. In terms of livestock mental health and welfare, one of the factors to take into account would be the animal's stimulus. This could be objects the animal can entertain itself with, such as a ball, or even just animals of the same species to interact with. An animal may suffer mentally or become stressed if it is left segregated without anything to aid mental enrichment. On the physical side, illnesses common within certain farm animals may be a problem if not properly vaccinated against, illnesses such and foot and mouth among pigs and cattle. Respiratory problems can occur if housing for farm animals does not have the required ventilation measures in place. Issues could occur during the transportation of livestock; whether this is physical in that the animal is mishandled or if the transportations flooring is not so as to prevent slipping, or mentally in that the animal may become stressed, especially if force is used within the process. All these aspects and more all come down to one main factor, stockmanship. Providing stock-keepers have the acquired knowledge and skills from onsite training and relevant courses, these factors should all be well manageable. From handling skills and care, to preventing and treating illnesses and parasites, and other general maintenance required to ensure health and welfare is upheld.