Learning Journal †Time Management Essay

The learning journal consists of my personal reflections on events in the workplace and on how I have tested new ideas from studying the module materials like Topic Guides in my work. It also consists of implementations of work based objectives or inquiries, plans for development of future work practice, shows how I have applied reflective thinking frameworks as I conducted my work based inquiries. Firstly, I would focus on the cycles of work-based inquiry on Time Management. Currently, I am undertaking trade training and representing the Army Martial Arts team. Adapted from TMA02 Task1(15/12/2013): Time management has always been an ideal topic of interests for me as it is fundamental factor which aids learning process in the workplace. Managing is evidently an effective technique as it maintains time appreciation and resources which aids in the production of positive results. Adapted from TGF Yellow(15/12/2013): (Doran, 1981, p. 35-36)SMART Framework S – I will have respective schedules for studies, work and sports planned out. By doing so, I will be having more time, achieve my set goals with more focus and produce better results too. M – I will reflect daily on my list of schedules and tick them off. If for any reason, I lack behind the schedule, I will ensure prioritising and spending time accordingly. A – If I could  finish my workload as planned out, I would be reasonably well ahead of my assigned date. This would give me more time to spend with my family especially with 2 year old son. R – I would be able to meet my goals set by myself. Not only will there be more family time to spend, I would also be eligible for my next promotion in good time and a step closer to becoming eligible for the Commissioned Officer course in the Army if I complete my OU degree. T – I am planning from the start of week 5 of BU130 till the end of the module. The framework has shown some effective results ever since and I am spending more quality time with family as well as coping with studies and training sports wise.’’ Journal(15/12/2013): Essentially, considering one of my workplace inquiries – Time Management, I am doing an Apprenticeship course plus OU modules, maintaining my fitness and representing the Martial Arts Team too. I have a son to look after at times and sometimes I struggle to make time for anything. (Simmering, 2014)I have been facing difficulties but after reading the article of the Topic Guide on Time Management from Reading 3 (The Open University, 2014a), I used the new ideas in conjunction with the application of the SMART framework. This made my schedule more practical and manageable. Journal(19/01/2014): I needed to outline the problems that I would face manage with my trade training and OU studies. I felt that it is difficult to start out and concentrate to get things done according to the set programme. (Simmering, 2014)Time management is testing as it requires motivation and discipline to work efficiently. It was easy to extend beyond schedule as procrastinating has been difficult to avoid. Adapted from TGF Green(29/01/2014): Introduction Critical Incident At times, I would have a responsibility of looking after my 2 years old son as my wife who works part-time doing her night shifts straight after my work. Just recently, I had to take my son to the A&E Department because he started having breathing problems for 2 days and we are regularly administering his doses at the given timings. The following day, as I  returned to my training, my NVQ course instructor came to me and told me to speed up to catch up with the programme schedule or he would mark the particular practical task a fail if not handed in time. I felt really upset because I thought he was being unreasonable and unfair but I had no choice so I hastily worked on my task and managed to complete it in time with an average score. Journal(21/01/2014): I have completed the introduction and incident section and I will be able to progressively focus. However, it has not turned out as planned on some areas, particularly, in my course where I have been struggling to catch up with my other classmates. Moreover, I will also have to take days off from the vocational course to train for Army Martial Arts Competition. Plus, I know that I will have more workload piled up from the time loss from Martial Arts training as my apprenticeship deadline is on the 18th of March. Unexpected incidents have caused me delays making it difficult to follow the schedule. Ideas(22/01/2014) Using the stages of Kolb’s learning cycle, we could learn to Reflect from Concrete Experience like the incident mentioned above and Generalise to put it in Action. (Kolb, 1984) Journal(25/01/2014): I found that reflecting from ideas tested is a brilliant way of learning as it teaches me to work effectively by generalising and putting it to action. I noticed by using the four stages of Kolb’s learning cycle, it does give a broader view of the learning process. Adapted from TGF Green(29/01/2014): Hi Joyce I have tried the time management schedule as planned out with achievements. However, I have had lagged behind schedule due to unexpected problems that crops up every now and then. Currently, I have cut short my breaks and worked harder to catch up with time by half, which is about an hour, daily. I thought cutting my breaks shorter has worked effectively and I am also able to be a step ahead. Journal(29/01/2014): I thought if I could do it differently, I would change my ways or improve to work quicker and catch up with the programme. It seems to work better each day as I am speeding up progressively in doing other project work and practical assignments. I am able to spend ample time on my TMA03 assignment as well. Framework for evaluation(29/01/2014) I have chosen the Pedler’s framework of bringing our feelings into our reflection According to Pedler et al. 2001 stats that it helps us to rationalise one’s thought and various ideas that could be used to improve their actions and performance in difficult situations. Taking emotions and feelings into account and analysing situations through questioning and response. It is basically learning through reflection. Our feelings – I felt disheartened by the way the instructor who unreasonably told me that I could fail the task. I had no options but to continue my work with speed as I know that arguing with him would not have got me anywhere. I am glad that I managed to pass it though. Our thoughts and ideas – My thoughts are to give a critical review of my schedule and allocate ample time for assignments and project works. I might consider cancelling some Taekwondo classes and start completing tasks faster. This will also give me extra time for my family as well as keeping me ahead of things to come. Our action-tendencies – Following strictly with the deadline will help keep myself on track with everything. I have been struggling to meet the deadline but will persevere to achieve them. As I cannot afford to lose any more time and make it a habit. Journal(20/02/2014): In addition to using the Kolb’s learning cycle, I thought the Pedler’s framework would work together. So far, results have been excellent as I could practise and maintain schedule overall. This supports my Self and Career management well. Journey Reflection(28/02/2014) In summary, I thought the process of reflecting from the beginning was really challenging and a difficult one because lots of changes were made to achieve the result wanted. Sometimes, it is not possible to control everything as planned and adjustments have to be made along the way. I thought that I had  to transform myself doing this module to become better at managing and organising my time. Word count: 1313 References: Arney, E. (2011) BU130 Writing for work and study, Milton Keynes, The Open University. Arney, E. (2012) BU130 Learning Contract Guidance, Milton Keynes, The Open University. Arney, E. (2013) BU130 Study Guide, 7th edn, Milton Keynes, The Open University. Doran, G. T. (1981) There’s A S.M.A.R.T. Way to Write Management’s Goals and Objectives, Management Review, vol 70, no. 11(AMA FORUM), pp. 35-36. Kolb, D. (1984) Experiential Learning, Englewood Cliffs, NJ, Prentice Hall. Pedler, M., Burgoyne, J. and Boydell, T. (2001) A Manager’s Guide to Self Development (4th edn.), Maidenhead, McGraw-Hill. Ramsey, C. (2010) BU130 Introducing Reflective Learning, Milton Keynes, The Open University. Simmering, M. J. (2014) Time Management – Reference for Business, (2nd edn) [Online], Encyclopaedia of Business. Available at http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/management/Str-Ti/Time-Management.html (Accessed 15 December 2013). The Open University (2014a) ‘Reading mate rial 3’, Topic Guide 1: Time management [Online]. Available at https://learn2.open.ac.uk/mod/oucontent/view.php?id=372553 §ion=3 (Accessed 15 December 2013). 2. Reflective Report Introduction Corresponding to the Time Management which gives support to the learning development in the workplace, the Self and Career Management, is fundamental in ensure relevance in the chosen pathway. It has to be made certain that the individual is not being trained or forced into something that is irrelevant. The importance of the Self and Career Management is stressed in the Learning Contract under Section 1 – Possible learning topics: ‘’Likewise, self and career management comes into what the individuals’ capabilities are and how one can establish their aims to achieve their goals. Without learning the appropriate skill or having the relevant qualification, it does not help for the assigned tasks. Hence, I would ensure that the courses and experiences needed are attained according to my  career path.’’ Occurrence Having acquired 8 years of service in the British Army and experienced various dilemmas, the economic and financial constraints have significantly affected the Regular Army Structure as a whole down to the hierarchy of ranks from 102,000 to 82,000 (The Guardian, 2014). Colleagues who were highly professional and skilled are forced into changing their trade skills or made redundant because of the non-availability of the quota and relevance in trade skills required including expenditures. Moreover, with pay freeze and staff retention and cut backs, it has been ever more difficult for serving soldiers. In order to ensure job suitability, one has to be competent with a relevant qualification and experience. Therefore, ideas generated from sources such as Topic Guide 3: Self and Career Management Readings 5 and 6 materials were used to adapt to such changes. (The Open University, 2014b) Discussion Session Action Taken At the moment, I am undertaking a vocational, NVQ level 3 course in order to be more competent and qualified as a senior tradesman with acquired knowledge to secure my profession and develop personally. Ideas (The Open University, 2014b)Additionally, I also obtained several ideas from Readings 5 and 6 materials and they are: – The skilful use of the self Strengths and weaknesses Self-knowledge, self-esteem and self-confidence Managing change Framework for reflection The reading material ideas, utilised in conjunction with the stages of Kolb’s learning cycle, we could learn to Reflect from Concrete Experience like the incident mentioned above and Generalise to put it in Action. (Kolb, 1984) The ‘Kolb’s experiential learning cycle’ is to be used for reflective learning on our own circumstances. This model enables one to breakdown situations into a clearer more structured way. This framework allowsassessment of a particular situation and reflection of oneself and experiences which directs into putting actions to practical adjustments Concrete Experience – I have planned out my vocational pathway to promotion and tried the Self-knowledge, self-esteem and self-confidence to discover my potential capabilities and limitations (Bourner, 1996). However, I realised that sometimes I am not so confident with my given task even though I had the subject knowledge. Reflection – I need hone my weaknesses which will boost my self-esteem and practise with confidence in any given situation. Generalisation – It was because I had a vocational learning gap for 2 years and had few exposures. Therefore, I had to practice more which could obtain me to double promotion if I get a distinction and recommended. Action (Bourner, 1996)Hence, whatever the circumstances, I must manage the changes meaning innovating and improving the standards and quality of work in order to achieve distinction and be capable of reaching my own prospective pathway. Framework for evaluation Adapted from TGF Green: I have chosen the Pedler’s framework of bringing our feelings into our reflection (Pedlar et al., 2001) It is stated on (Pedler et al., 2001) that the framework helps us to rationalise one’s thought and various ideas that could be used to improve their actions and performances in challenging situations. Taking emotions and feelings into account and analysing situations through questioning and response. It is basically learning through reflection. Components Our feelings – I thought that having seen some of my colleagues made redundant, I felt disheartened in some ways. I knew that if I had to secure my job position, I would have to move on with strong mindset and set goals. I managed to be safe as for now plus got myself loaded onto a mandatory  vocational course which will qualify me for next promotion. Our thoughts and ideas – My thoughts are to be more decisive of my qualifications that I strive to acquire and making sure my options are available according to my experiences and knowledge gained. Ideas are taken from as many resources available especially from Reading materials from the Topic Guide 3 of Self and Career Management. This will put me on track that will ensure a stable career and perhaps give me better prospects in the field of business studies (The Open University, 2014b). Our action-tendencies – It is very simple to lose focus and interests during some point of performing on the course or even give up on the qualifications. Therefore, one must have self confidence, strong willed and persevere in order to overcome such weaknesses. One must also learn relevant skills needed. I have learnt that Self and Career Management that the crucial to keep an individual’s competency updated and experiences gained appropriate to my career pathway and also keeping opportunities available. *Adapted from the Learning Contract, under Section 3 Learning Objectives. Self and Career Management (Doran, 1981, p. 35-36)Developing and maintaining records of achievements, qualifications for future planned pathways. S – Gain relevant qualifications and experiences and also recommendations. This will create foundation to secure my current position giving better opportunities too as I will also be completing my Apprenticeship – Fabricator (NVQ Level 3) in 14th of March. M – Every week, I will critically reflect on areas covered and if I am struggling, I will concentrate more to improve my weak areas, and record everything done to date. A – I aiming to achieve a distinction (above 85%) in my Apprenticeship in order to be recommended for Clerk of Works and also pass BU130 module with flying colours at the end of March. R – I would follow the organised path chosen which avoids confusion and distraction plus produce results. T – I started as of 2nd November till the 18th March to acquire as much qualifications and experiences as possible to improve my career. Conclusion In overall, I have been able to adapt ideas from resources such as the reading materials from the Topic Guides and BU130 module books with the help of classmates and Ms Joyce (Tutor) in the TGF discussion forum. Essentially,  I am more confident on dealing with situations and coming up with solutions to tackle daily problems along the way. I am able to gauge my own capabilities and push myself to enhance my personal development and have better job prospects by using the SMART framework for further future development.

The Life of Sgt. Dillon Black Foxx

Sgt. Dillon B. Foxx Born Dec. 2nd, 1987 in Traverse City, MI Died Feb. 5th, 2010 in Badghis Province, Afghanistan serving during Operation Enduring Freedom Sgt. Dillon Black Foxx of Traverse City, Michigan spent his early years living in Tennessee. When he was 17 he moved to Michigan where he graduated from Traverse City West Senior High School in 2006. Sgt. Foxx changed his name and used to go by Robert Dillon Lentz. He enlisted in the Army in May 2006 at the age of 18. When he did, his friends thought he was crazy. They reminded him the country was at war. Nope, he said, he wasn’t crazy; he was doing exactly what he needed to do. An awesome soldier with a free spirit, he maintained the same personality he carried his whole life into the military: a self-starter and someone others could count on. Dillon had attended One Station Unit Training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and Basic School at Fort Benning Georgia. When he finished his training, Dillon reported to Fort Bragg, where he was assigned to the 1st Battalion of the 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment. In January 2007, he deployed with the unit to Afghanistan for 15 months. He returned in April 2008. He was promoted to sergeant in January 2009 and went to Afghanistan in August for his second deployment, assigned to the 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, from Fort Bragg, North Carolina, his duty as a forward observer. He died February 5th in Bala Murghab, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Dillon received numerous awards including an Army Commendation with Valor Device, the Army Commendation with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Global Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal, the Combat Action Badge, the Basic Parachutist Badge and the Purple Heart posthumously. Dillon will be remembered by those who had the opportunity to meet him, serve with him or love him. Dillon is survived by his mother, Trina Pfau of Manton; father, Robert Lentz of Tennessee; his seven-month-old son, Kaiden Levi Foxx; Kaiden's mother, Jessica Cross; two brothers, Chad (Andrienne) Stewart and their son Blake, currently stationed with the United States Marine Corp in California, Dale Blakeslee of Manton; two sisters, Savannah Lentz and Lenzy Blakeslee, both of Manton; grandparents, Linda Stewart, Linda Gale and Walter Lentz; great-grandmother, Fern (Ben) Chupp; his uncle, Chuck (Bonnie) Stewart; an aunt, Alisha (Les) Wormell; and many other loving family members, friends and comrades of the service. The Governor ordered flags down to half staff across the state to honor the northern Michigan soldier. Memorial services with Military Honors took place at 11 a. m. on Friday, February 19, 2010 at the NMC Hagerty Center, with visitation one hour prior to the service. The Rev. Justin Grimm did Officiate. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Sgt. Dillon Foxx Memorial Fund, c/o Traverse City State Bank, PO Box 192, Traverse City, MI 49685. Please share thoughts with the family at Dillon's online guestbook at www. reynolds-jonkhoff. com. The family is being served by the REYNOLDS-JONKHOFF FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, (231) 947-6347. The more than hour long service began with a reading of a poem written by Sergeant Foxx. The first line read, â€Å"If I ever go to war Mom, please don't be afraid. There are some things I must do, To keep the promise that I made. † Every stanza there after reminded family and friends never to worry while their loved one was off at war. It was a tearful service, but it showcased the absolute best of Sgt. Foxx through anecdotes and memories. During the memorial service, Army personal presented Sergeant Foxx's family with military honors including a purple heart and a flag presentation. 9&10 News talked to the family after the service at a luncheon at the VFW Hall in Traverse City. They said they were overwhelmed with the support from the community. â€Å"We would like to express our thanks for the outpouring generosity that has been tremendous and overwhelming,† says Stewart. â€Å"Friends and strangers alike have just been so supportive. † His family described him as a â€Å"quick learner† who picked up new tasks easily and worked hard to get the job done, whatever the job was. The family wanted to thank everyone for their support, including family and friends in Tennessee, Ohio, Michigan, Florida, Fort Bragg, the local V. F. W. and the military I send my sincere condolences to the family and friends of SGT Dillon B. Foxx. May the Lord comfort you in the difficult days ahead. Godspeed Dillon†¦.. Godspeed†¦.. Those we love remain with us For love itself lives on†¦ Cherished memories never fade Because one loved is gone. Those we love can never be More than a thought apart†¦ For as long as there is memory, They live on in our hearts. Traverse City Soldiers post Posted by Lisa McQueen, Harbor Springs – Sunday, February 07, 2010 at 8:15 p. m. Our military family shares in your pain, this community supports you in grief and this country is grateful for your sacrifice. We are humbled by the service of your son. Thoughts and prayers to you during this most difficult time. Posted by J Meadows, TX – Tuesday, February 09, 2010 at 10:56 a. m. RIP Airborne! St. Michael, Guide this Paratrooper to a waiting formation of the Jump Master in the Sky! From: Diablo A staff sergeant and captain who worked with Foxx describe him as a self-starter and someone they could always count on. Foxx’s brother made a statement when asked about his brother â€Å"He did what he did,† says Chad Stewart, Foxx's brother. â€Å"It's just like anyone else that deploys†¦ unfortunately it was him, but he did what he wanted to do. † TRAVERSE CITY — Flags lined the walkway of Traverse City's Hagerty Center early Friday morning. A somber mood, yet a patriotic spirit as people paid their respects to 22-year old Sergeant Dillon Foxx. A fallen soldier is being remembered as a local hero. â€Å"I just think it really brings it home that it's somebody in your own backyard that was in Afghanistan and has passed away,† says Dan Brady of Traverse City. This young man lost his life. He gave the ultimate sacrifice fighting for our country. My heart goes out to his family,† says Traverse City resident, Marianne Abramson. â€Å"My son also serves in the 82nd Airborne. This is his second tour in Iraq and he is 22 years old and it just really hits close to home. I feel for this child's family. I do. I can't imagine my son not coming home,† says Elk Rapids resident, Mary Gallagher. â€Å"He laid down his life for us and I know the family but it's my way of showing support. I believe in what their son did. Being a veteran of the Gulf War myself is something I feel compelled to do,† says Midland resident, Jim Johnston. It's personal stories like this that brought out people from around the state, even complete strangers simply to say, â€Å"thank you. † â€Å"It's just a reminder that our freedom is really not free. There's soldiers dying every day for our freedom,† Soldiers who are thousands of miles away just like Sergeant Foxx putting our country before themselves. Now, a community is stepping up to show its support for his sacrifice. *Tribute to Sgt. Dillon Foxx* SGT Foxx was one of the best kind of people to know. Smart, funny, brave, compassionate, and extremely outgoing. For us paratroopers lucky enough to work with him on a daily bases, this loss shook us to the core. The loss of a true friend, mentor and brother will never be forgotten. I love you man past, present, and future. From: Jarmacus Smith. While I didn't know Sgt Foxx personally, my husband is currently serving in Iraq on his 2nd tour, my best friend of 18 years was killed in action in Iraq, 3 years ago this may 23rd, and I have several friends and family in the military. I thank Sgt. Foxx from the bottom of my heart for his selfless service to this country. And to his family, I will always have you in my thoughts and prayers. May you find peace in knowing that he will NEVER be forgotten. From: Rebekah Marie Lane. God bless the family and thank you Sgt. for keeping my family safe. Your selflessness is what separates you from the average civilian. Thank you. From: Dave Wylie. Here is a poem I found that I think the family would like to read in regards to their loss and their feelings at this time â€Å"Life Is A Fragile Thing†: â€Å"Life is a fragile thing And it can change within an instant Nothing is safe from the effects of change No person or possession we're given The only things we can hold forever Are the memories in our hearts The loves we share upon this earth Before it comes our time to part So choose a pathway that brings you joy Take time for quiet moments each day Appreciate the challenges that strengthen your soul And the blessings God sends your way Don't let your heart be ruled by anger It's just not worth the stress For the tumult will only expand in your heart And crowd out happiness Live each day with wonder and gratitude For the beauty that surrounds you And share your abundance generously It'll ensure future blessings will surround you Meekly accept that life's journey will include Unexpected, soul-wrenching heartaches That will bruise your soul and alter the course You always imagined your life would take And when that happens you'll have the choice To embrace hope or hopelessness You can't avoid grief, but you can refuse to accept A lonely future of bitterness So choose to be grateful for each moment With the loved ones you've been given†¦ † I also found some pictures of Sgt. Dillon Foxx that will put a face to the story. ? Sgt. Dillon Foxx Military Picture ? Dillon Foxx & His Son ? Sgt. Dillon Foxx on duty. ? Sgt. Dillon Foxx is being carried to his funeral in his casket. I found this poem which I feel explains Sgt Dillon Foxx and his selflessness he showed with the way he lived his life and giving of himself to the military. â€Å"This fundamental truth of the self can be realized only if the individual is willing and courageous enough to follow to some natural conclusion this moment of experience, this facing the unknown and participating with the total commitment of the self. Such expression, such passion for life may emerge in written, spoken, graphic or aesthetic forms in relation or in isolation; in I-Thou encounters; and in silent, inner experience. A compassionate willingness is required – as is the courage to live before the fact, before the understanding, before any rational support or certainty, to live the moment to its natural peak and conclusion, and to accept with dignity whatever joy, grief, misfortune, or unexpectedness occurs. I think that I found a quote that explains how Sgt Dillon Foxx felt since he stated it to his family and friends that he was doing what he wanted to do. â€Å"I have lived on a razors edge. So what if you fall off, I'd rather be doing something I really wanted to do. I'd walk it again. † I would like to say to Sgt Dillon Foxx’s family and anyone else that has lost a love one, Do not cry over your loss but celebrate the life they once lived. Remember them for all the good times you shared, rather then dwell on what will never be. When you keep them in good memories and thoughts it makes it easier day by day to get through. God is always willing and ready to help you through your hurt and pain all you have to do is call upon him and ask for his help. For those of us who do not have family or friends in the military or that take everyday for granted, please remember it is people like Sgt. Dillon Foxx that scarify their lives everyday to help us live free.

Ancient Chinese Culture

The fertile banks of the Tigris, Euphrates and the Indus rivers have produced a rich civilization in the Middle East and India, but the same happened in the Yellow River in China. Civilization and Mesopotamia, the civilizations of Jalapa and Mohenzodaro are not mentioned in the outside world. Yellow River Civilization not only reflects the development of the other two civilizations, it also contributes to its own unique civilization. Communication with West Asia and South Asia of China's geographical location - Qinghai - Tibetan plateau in the west and Takayama in the Gobi desert in the north is difficult. Ancient Chinese culture has a history of more than 5000 years. China's cultural history has very diversity and diversity. Exquisite Chinese civilization is rich in arts and science, exquisite painting and printing technology, exquisite ceramics and sculptures. The architectural tradition of China is highly appreciated all over the world. Chinese and literature, philosophy and polit ics are still considered to have strong influence. Only after Western culture emerged in the middle of the 19th century, Chinese culture succeeded in maintaining its unique identity. Prehistoric Japanese culture began to be influenced by ancient Chinese culture thousands of years ago. One consequence of these effects is the implementation of the land split grill system that existed for a long time; the ancient place name and field boundaries of the system can still be traced. Chinese writing and many other Chinese developments have been introduced for centuries; for centuries the writing system has gone through many modifications as it does not fit in Japanese . Buddhism began in India and was revised in Central Asia, China and Korea before reaching Japan in the 6 th century - and it had a great influence on Japanese culture life, Buddhism was changed from its pioneering form with time It has developed. Similarly, China's urban design was introduced in the layout of the ancient capi tal of Nara and Kyoto, but the island had no spread.

Family characteristics of Order sphenisciformes-penguins Research Paper

Family characteristics of Order sphenisciformes-penguins - Research Paper Example The author uses functional and comparative analyses in understanding the adaptation behaviors and other intriguing features of the giant penguin. The article remained vital in explaining morphological characteristics of certain species of penguins. Jadwiszczak, Piotr, and Sandra D. Chapman. "The Earliest Fossil Record Of A Medium-Sized Penguin." Polish Polar Research 32.3 (2011): 269-277. Academic Search Premier. Web. 29 Nov. 2014. Jadwiszczak and Sandra, 2011 focuses on reconstructing features of middle-sized penguins using earliest fossil records. Comparative analysis of the fossils reveals the attributable features of middle-sized penguins and their origins. The article was essential in understanding the inherent evolutionary features of middle-sized penguins. Ksepka, Daniel T., et al. "Evolution Of The Brain And Sensory Organs In Sphenisciformes: New Data From The Stem Penguin Paraptenodytes Antarcticus." Zoological Journal Of The Linnean Society 166.1 (2012): 202-219. Academic Search Premier. Web. 29 Nov. 2014. Ksepka et al., 2012, conducts a study aimed at exploring the inherent neuroanatomical evolution amongst penguins. The authors use generated virtual endocasts in in understanding the anatomical features of extant penguin species. The studies ascertain that there exists retention of various characteristics associated with flight despite evolution. There also exist data reflecting degree of development in neuroanatomical features of penguins. The article is imperative in understanding evolutionary characteristics amongst penguins.

The Reasons for the Fall of the Inca Empire Essay

The Reasons for the Fall of the Inca Empire - Essay Example The people in this kingdom used assimilations to incorporate the majority of the western part of south America. They also used violence to spread their rule within the region. The kingdom was spread from the mountains in Andrea to Ecuador over to Bolivia and into the countries of Chile and Columbia. Their official language was called Quechua though many dialects of the language were spoken. The people of the kingdom worshipped the sun god and considered their king as a son of the sun god. 2 Most of the people in the kingdom were pastoralists. After the attack and occupation of the Spaniards on the capital, Cusco, the Inca people constructed other strongholds in the towns of Vilcabamba along with Vitcos. The fall of the Inca Empire came as a result of their defeat in war by the Spaniards among many other reasons. The Spaniards had already managed to conquer the Indians of Mexico in the year 1519 under the leadership of Hernan Cortes. 3 The Incas though had no information concerning th e conquest of the Indians. The Inca people only realized that the white man was around in the years between 1523 to 1525. There was an attack by the Spaniards accompanied by the Indians of central Mexico and under the leadership of Alejo Garcia, a Spaniard, on the Inca at Gran Chaco. This helped in creating awareness among the Inca of the white man’s presence.4 In the year 1527, an outbreak of small pox affected the people of the empire leaving very devastating effects on the community. The Inca’s leader known as Huayna Capac passed away in the same year leaving a very large kingdom that encountered many wrangles on his progression. The leader had 500 boys and two of them seemed the favorites to succeed their father. They were Huascar and Atahualpa who resided in Cusco.5 This culminated in the outbreak of a civil unrest that lasted for a period of five years due to the power struggles between the brothers. The war was fought between two factions each being led by eithe r of the step brothers. Atahualpa won the war but his victory did not last long enough. This is because after two weeks the Spaniard Pizzarro arrived for his second trip to the region accompanied by one hundred and seventy seven men. Among these men only sixty seven of them were soldiers and they arrived in the year 1532 at Tumbes.6 The Inca leadership under Atahualpa had precise information concerning the whereabouts of the Spaniards.7 They however made faulty interpretations of the details since they were told that the white’s guns were only thunderbolts which could fire twice. Their soldiers were also told to that the whites man horses were not appropriate at night. 8 They claimed that the horse and the man were the same thing and the survival of one depended on the other. This implied that if one of them fell, the other was completely useless. The Inca people were also led into believing that the Spanish swords would do no harm to them. The perpetrators of this propaganda claimed that their swords were just as inefficient like a woman’s plank used for weaving purposes. The Spanish people did not however attack immediately.9 They invited the Inca leader, Atahualpa, to visit in their walled city and the leader foolishly walked into their trap. He was accompanied by many of his tribesmen though they were unarmed. They came in this condition as a result of being convinced by a Christian priest and a demigod of the Inca. The Spaniards laid an ambush on the Inca’

Strategic Management and Strategic Competitiveness Assignment - 5

Strategic Management and Strategic Competitiveness - Assignment Example Walmart’s international operations began in 1991 when the retailer entered into a joint venture with Cifra, a Mexican retail company. During the fiscal year ended January 31, 2013, the retailer recorded net sales of $274 billion from its U.S. operations. During the same period, Walmart garnered net sales of $135 billion from its international operations. Technological changes including advancements in information and communication technology have played a monumental role in Walmart’s success. Walmart has been a pioneer in embracing technology. In 1987, the company installed the largest private satellite communication system in the United States (Walmart, 2014). The system enabled the retailer to link its business operations through voice, data as well as video communication. The company uses robots in its warehouses to improve efficiency and reduce costs. The retailer is also introducing convertible cash registers at its stores to enable self-checkout by customers. Walmart relies heavily on information technology in its back office support functions. Walmart recognizes the importance of the rapidly expanding e-commerce market and has invested heavily to build strong capabilities in online and mobile infrastructure. A strong web presence is likely to enable Walmart offer a wide assortment of products to its customers anytime, anywhere. An upgraded search engine for walmart.com has already led to increased online sales for the retailer. The various macro environmental dimensions like political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal factors affect the working of Walmart. The ideology of the government determines whether it is pro or anti business. Since Walmart is present in numerous countries, it faces diverse political circumstances. Political instability in any country has the potency to adversely affect the operations and revenues of Walmart. The retailer has to ensure

Astronomy 123 Homework Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Astronomy 123 Homework - Assignment Example The shell becomes more massive as it sweeps the surrounding, it, therefore, slows down. The remnants of these explosions can live up to100,000 years, which seems a long duration in terms of astronomical time scale. The most recent supernova experienced in our galaxy was discovered through tracking the remains of its massive explosions. NASA uses Chandra X-ray observation to estimate the frequency with which supernovas explode in the Milky Way Galaxy. NASA estimates that the last supernova occurred almost 140 years ago measured within the period of the earth. Initially, the last supernova had occurred in 1680. Supernovas are, therefore, rare occurrences with only six observed in the earth’s galaxy over a period of 1000 years (Yockey and Hubert 142). The estimate for their occurrence is one supernova for every 25 to 100 years; therefore, it is likely that one may occur soon. The first theory explaining the origin of water talks about volcanic activity. It suggests that when the earth cooled, certain elements that broke apart recombined forming new substances. Two of those elements are hydrogen that broke away from hydrocarbons (for example methane) and oxygen that broke away from iron oxide. Molten magma carried these elements to the surface; they then combined to form water. This however does not seem sufficient to account for 70% of the earth’s surface. Another theory suggests that water was delivered to earth by earth-grazing comets. While the nebulae has water within its remote corners, analysis of this water shows that it is not the same water like that found in the earth’s oceans. The snowball earth hypothesis states that the surfaces of the earth and the ocean were covered with ice across the poles of the equator during periods of extreme cooling about 2.4 billion years ago (Singh 109). Evidence for this hypothesis is found in the ancient rocks that preserve signs of past magnetic field. Additionally, there is a

Business Information Systems Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words - 2

Business Information Systems - Essay Example One such factor that is very essential for success of any business, especially in present era of huge competition, is processing and dissemination of information in and out of the organisation. Nowadays, accurate and rapid management of information has become an essential and imperative task for business organisations since besides product quality, it has been an observation that service delivery now plays an important role in deciding future orders, and for this reason, a company can make or lose business just by focusing on its information management and systems. Although management of information was essential in the past as well; however, volume of such information was not so huge that it needed systems and thus, humans were performing the task efficiently (Martin, 1973, pp. 255-257). However, nowadays, due to huge number of customers, suppliers, vendors, etc, the need of business information systems has become inevitable, especially for companies that are dealing with suppliers and customers on national and international levels. One such company under consideration in this paper is Bognor Marine Watercraft (BMW) Company. In the last few years, BMW Company has witnessed an amazing progress in its business of watercraft and ancillaries that was limited to the UK market. Now, the decision-makers are now thinking about expanding the business due to increase in demand from the customers, especially for specialised high-end luxury watercrafts that has been the reason of their presence in the media lately. As the result, the notion of a ‘global village’ (Avgerou, 2003, pp. 97-99) is becoming a reality for the owners of BMW Company who now wants to become a market leader in their particular industry, not only in the UK market but internationally as well. Although the company was aware of the importance of information technology and therefore, it did invested in different information management systems and databases, however, it is an observation that the company did not give consideration to various aspects that are very essential before setting up of any IT structures and systems (Lan, 2005, pp. 130-134). In this regard, this paper will include understanding of different aspects related to IT systems that will potentially assist BMW Company in making the best use of its IT systems. Business Information Systems It will not be wrong to declare 21st century as the era of science and technology since even in the business market, the flow of information from one source to another has now become a decisive factor of success or failure of a company (Laudon & Laudon, 2007, pp. 101-103). As the result, nowadays, business information systems have taken place of humans and performing their tasks of processing and storing information while holding records and data related to different processes of an organisation. Companies have now installed information systems that are capable of comparing and relating past and present data to provide st atistics that enable owners to take crucial decisions in an efficient manner. Moreover, in bigger organisations such as BMW Company where there are different and various departments, information syste

Arc petition Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Arc petition - Essay Example However, I could not withdraw the class at the set time by the administration because the first examination that I had with the optician was promising as he assured me that my sight would improve. The result gave me a lot of hopes, and I did not see the need of withdrawing instead I embarked on my studies. Moreover, at the beginning of the semester, my sight was not as poor as it is right now because carry out an experiment and make proper inferences. Before putting my petition, I have extensively discussed my problem with my faculty members and they have promised to give me both the moral and financial support. Furthermore, they have accepted that should my sight improve and I come back to school, they will offer me the classes that I have missed. With the promise of the financial support that I have in the background, I promise that if you let me off the semester and I get the proper medication, I will come back immediately to continue with my studies. I will buy the glasses so as aid my performance in class and I will always be informing the committee members without taking any chance should there be any problem. United States. (1986). FCC record: A comprehensive compilation of decisions, reports, public notices, and other documents of the Federal Communications Commission of the United States. Washington, D.C.: Federal Communications

Associate Professor Essay Example for Free

Associate Professor Essay Teaching Note: Case 1 – Robin Hood Case Objectives 1. To provide an introduction to the conceptual framework of strategic management using a non-business situation. 2. To introduce students to the process of problem identification and potential solution analysis that will be used in case discussions throughout the semester. See the table below to determine where to use this case: |Chapter Use |Key Concepts | |1: Strategy Concept |Leadership for strategic management; sustainable competitive advantage; vision, mission, strategic objectives;| | |external environment; internal environment; efficiency vs. effectiveness; stakeholder management | Case Synopsis Robin Hood and his merry men are now in trouble because wealthy travelers (their source of revenue) are avoiding the forest. As is often common in an entrepreneurial organization, the Merry Men were highly motivated by Robin Hood’s leadership. Therefore, Robin had previously relied on informal communication to organize and implement operations. Robin is pleased with the growing size and influence of his organization. However, growth has meant that specialized duties have begun taking up most of the men’s time, leaving a command vacuum between Robin and the first line recruits. In addition, they are now all located in a large encampment that can be seen for miles. This creates the probability of a surprise attack on their position. Growth has also put great pressures on resources, so now they must harvest the forest more thoroughly. Where will additional revenue come from? Rich travelers are avoiding the forest, so in desperation Robin is considering robbing the poorer travelers, which means his lieutenants must now tell their men to rob their brothers and fathers. What started as a  rebellion is in danger of being routinized into banditry. Robin must therefore begin to evaluate the Merry Men’s mission in view of the changing environment. Should it still be an extension of his private grudges and aspirations? Has the organization acquired a new mission, if so what is it? Who are the key stakeholders here? On whose behalf should the organization formulate its mission! Teaching Plan Most students are familiar with the Robin Hood story, so it’s possible to ask them to read this short case in class during the 1st or 2nd class meeting. Either use the PowerPoint slides or ask the discussion questions directly. As students respond, either write answers on the board or refer to the PowerPoint slide answers. It’s up to the instructor whether or not to assign Chapter 1 prior to discussing the case. If the case is read before the chapter is read, then the instructor has the option to ask students, when they do read the chapter, to identify the concepts in the chapter that they recognize from the case discussion, and come to the next class prepared to share what they recognized. If the case is discussed after students have read Chapter 1, the instructor can ask students to identify what concepts apply from the chapter. Summary of Discussion Questions Here is a list of the suggested discussion questions. You can decide which questions to assign, and also which additional readings or exercises to include to augment each discussion. Refer back to the Case Objectives Table to identify any additional readings and/or exercises so they can be assigned in advance. 1. What is strategy? 2. What strategic problems does Robin Hood have? 3. What is the role of the organizational leader as strategist and articulator of global goals? 4. What are some issues in this organization’s external environment? 5. What is the relationship of the organization’s internal structure to its environment? 6. How do group values or culture influence strategy making? 7. What strategy can Robin Hood implement? Discussion Questions and Responses Chapter 1: Introduction and Analyzing Goals and Objectives 1. What is the purpose of strategy? See Chapter 1, Exhibit 01: Strategic management consists of the analyses, decisions, and actions an organization undertakes in order to create and sustain competitive advantages: †¢ strategy directs the organization toward overall goals and objectives; †¢ includes multiple stakeholders in decision making; †¢ incorporates both short-term and long-term perspectives; †¢ recognizes trade-offs between efficiency and effectiveness. An interesting question that the instructor can ask at this point is: what business is Robin Hood’s organization in? Some students might say philanthropy, some might say robbery. The answers to this question will help students understand the importance of vision and mission: the leader must have a clear idea of the purpose of the business, and who it competes with, in order to craft strategy. If the business is robbery, there are different competitors, like highwaymen. 2. What strategic problems does Robin Hood have? Robin Hood’s organization is in a profit squeeze: revenue is down and costs are rising. In addition, there are cracks in the culture of the organization. Issues that need to be addressed include: †¢ How to avoid detection of the growing organization? †¢ Has Sherwood Forest become too small to sustain operations? †¢ What to do about the growing strength of the Sheriff’s forces? †¢ How to address organizational communications and leadership confusion? Decisions that need to be made include: †¢ Should Robin Hood kill the Sheriff? †¢ Should Robin Hood accept the Baron’s offer to join in freeing King Richard? †¢ Should Robin Hood impose a fixed transit tax in order to increase revenue? Consequences to be considered include: †¢ Does the change in the external environment mean that the original mission is no longer valid? †¢ If Robin Hood decides to kill the Sheriff, accept the Baron’s offer or impose a tax on travelers, how do each of those actions link to the mission? †¢ If the mission changes, to what degree does Robin Hood have to worry about the loyalty of stakeholders? One other issue concerns the rapid growth of the organization. In the space of two years the organization grew from fragmentation and obscurity to a strong regional presence. Competitive strategy is about sustaining a position in the industry. Growth implies that strategy has to be flexible enough to adapt. Does Robin have a sustainable strategy? 3. What is the role of the organizational leader as strategist and articulator of global goals? See Chapter 1, Exhibit 06: The primary role of the organizational leader is to articulate vision, mission and strategic objectives. Leaders must also be  proactive, anticipate change and continually refine changes to their strategies. This requires a certain level of â€Å"ambidextrous behavior†, where leaders are alert to opportunities beyond the confines of their own jobs, and are also cooperative and seek out opportunities to combine their efforts with others. Robin Hood needs to evaluate his initial vision of the organization’s purpose: what was the original goal that was â€Å"massively inspiring, overarching, and long-term†, that represented a destination that is driven by and evokes passion? Is the original vision irreconcilable with the present circumstances? Robin Hood’s organizational mission may have to change: a mission encompasses both the purpose of the company as well as the basis for competition and competitive advantages. Organizations must respond to multiple constituencies if they are to survive and prosper, and the mission provides a means of communicating to diverse organizational stakeholders. If the vision and mission have to change, Robin Hood must establish strategic objectives to operationalize the mission statement. That is, objectives help to provide guidance on how the organization can fulfill or move toward the â€Å"higher goals† in the goal hierarchy—the mission and vision. Therefore, Robin Hood needs to redefine the organizational vision and mission since it may have changed rebellion may have become routinized into banditry. He must also identify the key stakeholders, broadening his focus beyond his own private grudge to include the needs of the district, the region, or the nation. And he must establish new goals. Depending on the stakeholders, these new goals may include replacing the Sheriff or changing the political order. 4. What are some issues in this organization’s external environment? There are obvious resource constraints. Sherwood Forest has finite resources: the inputs into the organization (travelers to rob) have dwindled, especially since the rich travelers have started avoiding it. Robin Hood’s band are spending past gains on present problems in the assumption that  future revenues will continue to grow at the same pace as in the past. This assumption, one that is often pervasive in successful organizations, may be unwarranted. The Merry Men are reduced to robbing poorer travelers. The poor travelers are their main stay of political support. Here is a common pitfall of success, the tendency of organizations to take their best and most important customers for granted, to extract from them the highest return for least effort in the belief that they have no practical alternative. In addition, trained manpower is scarce. Regarding the physical environment, the current growth of the organization has created a large encampment that can be seen for miles, and is therefore now a target for attack. The nature of the Merry Mens environment and operations requires stealth and flexibility. The current physical facility does not provide for this. 5. What is the relationship of the organization’s internal structure to its environment? See the Chapter discussion of the trade-offs between effectiveness and efficiency. Given the growth of the operation, Robin Hood’s previous structure may no longer be effective. He may no longer be able to achieve the goals of the organization. He might need to make trade-offs. His current structure is functional, with each lieutenant a specialist. Communication has been informal, and Robin currently has no direct link to his first line recruits. This structure performed well in the early days of the band. However, with the growth of the organization, this has become problematic, resulting in lack of coordination. His lieutenants could do double time as staff and line personnel: fulfilling their staff duties in off-peak periods, but available for line duty during field operations. Robin might want to consider creating a decentralized regional operation, with sub-bands who can operate out of smaller regional headquarters and better coordinate movements. This will increase flexibility of the total organization by moving the organizing of operations closer to those who undertake them. This will also reduce the chance of attack because then only  part of the band might be detected and surprised. Decentralization also pushes food-gathering down the line, thereby eliminating food distribution problems. Small scale operations can be carried out with greater economy. 6. How do group values or culture influence strategy making? During strategic analysis, the leader does â€Å"advance work† to anticipate unforeseen environmental developments, identify unanticipated resource constraints, assess changes in his or her preferences for how to manage. During strategy formation, depending on the type of organization structure, the leader might include key individuals in a discussion around selecting which strategies might be best to implement at which level within the organization. In strategy implementation, the leader must ensure proper strategic controls and organizational design, and establish effective means to coordinate and integrate activities within the firm as well as with suppliers, customers and alliance partners. Therefore, leaders must pay attention to all stakeholder needs, including the group’s values and the organizational culture. See Chapter 1, Exhibit 05 for the diverse stakeholder groups and the claims they make on the organization. Regarding the organizational culture, it was based on founding values that embraced a missionary outreach to the community. The original purpose created unity and a spirit of daring among the Merry Men. Robin is considering abandoning the higher (more affluent) segment of his market for a deeper exploitation of a very large segment with limited resources. Here he runs up against organizational traditions and values. If Robin pursues profit maximization now (robbing all travelers, including the poor), the group will become thieves. Group members will resist stealing from their brothers and fathers. Robin needs to restore the group members’ need for order and purpose. The Merry Men need to feel that their participation is quasi-voluntary. 7. What strategy can Robin Hood implement? The basic question strategic management tries to answer is: How can we create competitive advantages in the marketplace that are not only unique and valuable but also difficult for competitors to copy or substitute? Robin Hood must assess how functional areas and activities â€Å"fit together† to achieve goals and objectives. If the organization is still Robins extension of a personal grudge, then displacing the Sheriff should be the primary mission of the Merry Men. If the organization is acting on behalf of the district then replacing the Sheriff with a more benign administration should be the priority. If however the Merry Mens existence is an expression of widespread dissatisfaction with the present political order, then Robin should consider his potential contributions on a national scale. An analysis of the options confronting Robin ought to lead the students to question the criteria by which strategy is judged. Who is the actor in strategy? The chief executive officer? Top management? A coalition of stakeholders? There is clearly no theoretical answer to these questions. A discussion ought to set the ground for an appreciation of the political and structural forces under which strategy emerges. Robin should have a meeting with the Merry Men to explain the strategic dilemma and long-term issues. He needs to increase organizational discipline, which could be done by creating a clearer organizational structure with strategic controls that enforce the mission. To do this, he needs to recruit qualified leaders for the new decentralized structure, and involve lieutenants in the solution. It is always an issue – which functions should be decentralized and which retained at the corporate level. In this case intelligence gathering and finance should probably be kept centralized. It is crucial for the students to appreciate the contradictory pressures that implementation generates. The new decentralized structure will call for more intricate communication and command systems. It increases flexibility, but also increases the probability of breakdown and mismanagement. In this case runners must keep the various sub-bands in communication. This is a primitive technology that may be insufficient to ensure coordination. An  opportunity exists here for the students to appreciate to what extent sophisticated organizational forms are made possible by modern technologies which are ordinarily taken for granted. While restructuring is going on Robin must begin to consider other aspects of his strategy. He should examine the possibility of diversifying beyond the confines of his traditional forest territory. This is viable if he is decentralized. Operations can be carried on in the countryside by the autonomous sub-bands. He must also resolve the issue of the proposed transit tax. What should be his relationship to the local population? Should he increase their burden of taxation, or not? Robin must also prepare for the possibility of ceasing operations by providing outplacement training. He should pursue alliances beyond the current band of Merry Men, negotiating a possible change in the political order, negotiating amnesty, returning the band to legality. He should probably avoid contact with the Sheriff! Finally, Robin should recognize that mistakes will occur. Therefore he should anticipate the costs of implementation, especially the problems of extended communication. Robin must familiarize his lieutenants with his intentions and the projected problems. They must actively become involved in the evolving implementation. Ultimately, however, Robin Hood must consider the long-term course of action. If the Merry Men were a profit-maximizing organization in the classic sense they would be satisfied with keeping the Sheriff off balance; or perhaps work towards his replacement with a more inexperienced man. They are however a missionary organization. To pursue profit maximizing would sooner or later lead them to thievery, pure and simple. It would also undermine their unity and spirit of daring. Robin Hood has little choice but to increase his involvement in issues that lie beyond his immediate task environment.

Purpose of the Wall Street Journal

Purpose of the Wall Street Journal Saiteja Naidu (MSIS)Â   The Wall Street Journal The Wall street journal main purpose is for the business groups and financial investors. It was initially started by Charles Dowand Edward Jones, owners of Dow, Jones and Company, started publishing the daily Wall street journal on 8 July 1889. Earlier newspaper was started in United states which was firstly concentrated on general news later it began to focus mainly on business news, fluctuation in prices of stocks, bonds and some classes of commodities (Wendt, p. 28).It was edited in newyork city for u.s.a and daily editions include parts of asia, europe. Bernard Kilgore got to be overseeing proofreader of the diary in 1945, seventeen years after the demise of Clarence Barron. Kilgore upgraded the paper, extending its scope to incorporate all parts of business, financial aspects, and shopper issues, including general news that affected business.The Wall Street Journal is possessed by media tycoon Rupert Murdoch, who bought the organization for $5 billion in 2007 through his organiz ation, News Corporation. The deal finished the 105-year-long responsibility for Wall Street Journal by the Bancroft family. Murdoch, one of the worlds most effective media mogul. The Wall Street Journal has since quite a while ago overwhelmed American business distributing and was the nations first national daily paper. The journal has its classic daily paper and in addition e-daily paper which is most prevalent now a days to exist its check in innovation world with live redesigns and its commonplace business share report is found in the consistently computerized news for financial specialists. It has a sort of obstructs that none can coordinate the measures of its factual report and fascinating political news with showing territorial release. Journal vision to create interest for business in the public and its preferences in newspaper: The Journal started a few indexes of value developments of stocks, including the Dow Jones Indexes. The upper left-hand segment secured general market and monetary developments. The second from left secured the points of interest of the days market developments. Whatever is left of the four-page paper was completely business situated, announcing general news with regards to its impact on the business sectors. At the point when the nation is creating in the meantime there is a quick increment in the speculation and development in the pay of a person which requested for the proposals and thoughts where to put, When to move into business and shares. The Journal Interests and objectives: Journal rose as the voice of political conservatism in American news coverage. Such an article point of view, when joined with wide national dispersion, gave solid course and promoting income development, achieving $2.3 billion in the year 2000 and benefits before exceptional things of $294.6 million. The Journal mainly focuses on the business with deep immense research and commonplace authors with their amazing words to draw in the readers. It shows eight Headers for e-newspaper comprises of Home, World, U.S,Ploitics,Economy,Business,Tech,Markets,Opinion,Arts,Life,Real Estate Again those blogs are subdivided into various blogs related to the stream. The most preferable thing about the journal is that an individual can subscribe for different versions of software. This journal had both print and digital with various prudent enrollment memberships. We can download in android and ios renditions to take after the business and general news in computerized path for brilliant utilize. There are corporate memberships for business speculators and business people particularly for business magazines. There is also student journal and professor journal to register and publish the paper. Even they can subscribe to the job activities and can enlarge their network for career wise advantages. At present the world blog comprise of brussels in real time, china in real time and India in real time. The opinion column is the most crucial aspect to respect the individual ideas in wall street. References Dealy, Francis X., Jr. The Power and the Money: Inside the Wall Street Journal. Secaucus, N.Y.: Carol Publishing Group, 1993. Rosenberg, Jerry M. Inside the Wall Street Journal: The History and the Power of Dow Jones and Company and Americas Most Influential Newspaper. New York: Macmillan, 1982. Wendt, Lloyd. The Wall Street Journal: The Story of Dow Jones and the Nations Business Newspaper.Chicago: Rand McNally, 1982. http://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/111215/who-actually-owns-wall-street-journal.asp#ixzz4YydDnOQx. https://www.wsj.com/.

Objectification of Women by the Media Essay -- Feminism Feminist Women

Objectification of Women by the Media      Ã‚  Ã‚     The objectification of women is commonly used to refer to the presentation of women in the media as an object. Women's bodies are routinely used as objects to sell various products. In certain pictures women are presented as being vulnerable and easily overpowered especially in ads were they have on revealing clothing and take on submissive roles. These images are found in music videos as well, where the focus is only a particular body part. Lyrics to some songs promote this objectification as well.    "In many magazine advertisements women are often viewed as objects rather than human beings. Instead of focusing on the woman as a whole, many ads will just focus on one part of her body" (Objectification of Women).Often the focus is on a leg, a neck, a headless torso, etc. One Guess Eyewear ad has a man's head resting on a woman's torso. While her breasts are visible, her head is not. Skyy Vodka continually uses women's legs in their advertisements. One ad for Lily of France which spans the bottom of two pages not only focuses on a headless torso, but compares the breasts to speakers. Women's bodies are used as desirable objects to attract attention to the product. This is occurring in increasingly ridiculous ways. An ad for Visa found in several teen magazines shows only a woman's stomach. A naked woman with her face tucked away holds a Palm Pilot. The text reads, "Simply Palm". About-Face (an organization which combats negative and distorted images of women) features commenta ry on that particular ad. "Simply gratuitous use of naked female body to sell high-end electronic gizmo to gullible (mostly male) public.   Esquire magazine featured on its Febuary 2001 cover, a naked Ital... ...phy Ignites the Self-Destructive Pursuit of Perfection." Student Advantage. 1998 Bonzo, Amanda. "Objectification of women stems from media images." Pennsylvania: Collegian Inc. 2001. Dittrich, E. A. "Sociocultural factors that influence body image satisfaction in women. "(Doctoral   Dissertation, California Institute of Integral Studies, 1997.) Dissertation Abstracts International.   1997 Journal of Personality and Social Psychology Vol. 75, No. 1, 269-284 Mtv News Now: "When Sex Goes Pop: Not That Innocent" Viacom International. Inc. 2000. Avner, Judith A. New York Governor's Task Force on Sexual Harassment Sexual. "Harassment:   Building a Consensus for Change." 1993 Objectification of Women. "Sexual Objectification of Women" PsychoHeresy Awareness Letter, V7N2, March-April 1999 Zarchikov, Rebecca, "Show Me, Don't Tell Me."   

President Cleveland Essay -- essays research papers

Grover Cleveland Stephan Grover Cleveland is the fifth of nine children born to Reverend Richard Falley Cleveland and Ann Neal Cleveland. He was born on March 18th of 1837 in Caldwell, New Jersey, although he was raised in Fayetteville, New York. The actual house in which he was born still stands today on 207 Bloomfield Avenue. He was named in honor of Stephan Grover, a minister at a local Presbyterian Church who Reverend Cleveland had recently taken over for. Life as the son of a minister was different than most boys. The Cleveland’s spent every evening at home in prayer. Cleveland felt that this moral upbringing was his most valuable tool in life. Grover Cleveland visited an uncle in Buffalo, New York, and obtained a job in a law firm. While working there, he studied law and by May of 1859, the New York Supreme Court admitted him to the bar. Democratic politics had interested Cleveland since his arrival in Buffalo, so he became the county’s assistant district attorney. In 1865, Confederate General Robert E. Lee had surrendered his army to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House, Virginia. The Confederacy had collapsed and the United States was reunited and slavery was abolished. As the nation returned to peace, twenty-eight-year-old Cleveland won the demanding position of sheriff. When his term ended in 1873, he returned to his infamous law practice. On January 1,1882, Grover Cleveland took an oath to honor the city of Buffalo as their mayor. Cleveland was tough and honest. He was known as the â€Å"Veto Mayor,† because he continuously vetoed bills presented by corrupt politicians. In November of 1882, by a landslide margin of nearly 200,000 votes, Grover Cleveland became know as the â€Å"Veto Governor.† He understood the tremendous challenge of being the Governor of the State of New York, but his principles and values remained as strong as ever. The door to his office was always open, and he kept no secrets. In two years’ time, Cleveland’s stubborn sense of fairness and honesty gave him the nickname â€Å"His Obstinacy.† He passed bills to enlarge the state’s water supply and established a 1.5 million-acre park at Niagara Falls. Due to his reputation, the Democratic Party convinced him to run for president. On the second ballot, Cleveland won the Democratic nomination. The Democrats chose Thomas Hendricks of Indiana, as ... ...irectly with the Treasury crisis, instead of with business failures, farm foreclosures, and increasing unemployment. On October 30, 1893, the Sherman Silver Purchase Act was repealed, and confidence was restored in the American dollar. In spite of Cleveland’s efforts, the national depression worsened, and the Democratic Party was divided. When railroad strikers violated an injunction in Chicago, the President sent Federal troops to break up the strike against the Pullman Company. His blunt treatment of the railroad company was very unpopular. His party deserted him and nominated William Jennings Bryan for president, in 1896. At fifty-nine-years-old, Cleveland felt disgraced as he finished his term in the White House. He retired peacefully in Princeton, New Jersey, but continued pressing for government reforms. At the age of seventy-one, Grover Cleveland died on June 24, 1908. Americans were deeply saddened and mourned the passing of this heavy, robust. man, who was so famous for his tremendous strength and energy. Grover Cleveland will always be remembered as courageous, hardworking, and honest, in spite of the outcome. He was a man of his word, a man of honor.

Rey Bredbarys Fehrinhiot 451 :: Ferinhiot 451 Esseys

Cherectir Discroptoun Gay: Hi os e cherectir whu os blondly duong whet thi wurld os duong eruand hom wothuat thonkong. Frum thi onsodi hi os doffirint, hi hes e sympethitoc end carouas sodi on hom, hoddin sumiwhiri. Hi os jast loki eny forimin woth en anshevin blaosh luuks ivin eftir hi shevis, end woth bleckniss uf thi eshis on hos hends end feci. Aftir hos incuantir woth clerossi, hi sterts tu thonk end wundir anotintounelly. Hi sterts tu qaistoun hos ceriir end thi riesun bihond barnong buuks. Thiri mast bi sumithong ompurtent on thusi buuks uthirwosi thiy wualdn’t bi biong barnid. Hi rielozis thet hos lofi os nuthong bat fori end barnong buuks, thet hos lofi os impty end gluumy. Hi hes tekin e stip tuwerds anluckong thi mystiry bihond barnong buuks end hos duar lofi. Moldrid: Shi os thi wofi uf Gay Munteg. Shi os e viry embogauas cherectir, fall uf saspocoun. Hir physocel eppierenci os viry onsognofocent â€Å"Hir feci wes loki e snuw cuvirid oslend apun whoch reon moght fell (9) Shi os ubvouasly ubsissid woth T.V on e wey piupli eri eddoctid tu drags. Shi asis tu kiip hir frum thonkong ebuat hir lofi end thi rieloty uf ot. Shi clierly troid tu cummot saocodi, bat shi rifasis ot. Thos ettimpt shuws thet shi os nut heppy woth hir lofi end went tu git rod uf ot. Shi duisn’t went tu divilup e riletoun woth hir hasbend, end shi duisn’t went tu hevi kods. Besocelly shi os on dinoel uf hir uwn lofi end ectouns, es e risalt shi os nut rielozong thet hir ectouns eri nut roght. Moldrid os loki en ivol stunir whu sots on hir huasi ell dey. Bietty: Hi os e viry clivir cherectir. Hi hetis buuks end wents tu barn thim, bat ot siims loki es of hi sicritly rieds buuks. Hi os e bog gay woth viry ponk tuni uf culur tu hos feci. Darong thi forst pert uf thi buuk, thi forimin gut cellid fur en imirgincy et thi uld wumen's huasi fur buuks. If ried cerifally yua woll nutoci enuthir sodi uf Bietty’s cherectir. Whin Bietty telks tu thi uld wumen hi rifirincis e lottli frum thi Bobli, â€Å"Yua’vi biin luckid ap hiri fur yiers woth e rigaler demnid Tuwir uf Bebil,†(24). It siims loki hi asi tu ried on thi pest bifuri thi buuk barnong stertid. Bietty elsu trois tu cuntrul Gay’s mond frum hos ixpiroinci es e fori cepteon, bat hi cen nivir rimuvi thi merk thet Clerossi hes lift un Gay ebuat buuks.

Syllabus Psy310

Copyright  ©2012, 2010, 2006 by University of Phoenix. All rights reserved. Course Description The purpose of this course is to familiarize the student with the various methods of inquiry, terminologies, and theoretical systems that comprise the history of psychology. A broader view is used to introduce the modern era of psychology and its use. These include: structuralism, functionalism, Gestalt, behaviorism, psychoanalysis, and phenomenological/existential approaches.Policies Faculty and students/learners will be held responsible for understanding and adhering to all policies contained within the following two documents: University policies: You must be logged into the student website to view this document. †¢ Instructor policies: This document is posted in the Course Materials forum. University policies are subject to change. Be sure to read the policies at the beginning of each class. Policies may be slightly different depending on the modality in which you attend class. I f you have recently changed modalities, read the policies governing your current class modality. Course Materials Goodwin, C. J. (2008). A history of modern psychology (3rd ed. ). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.All electronic materials are available on the student website. |Week One: Psychology in Historical Perspective: Early Developments | |The Mind/Body Relationships of Psychology | | |Details |Due |Points | |Objectives |Examine the roots in early philosophy that lead to modern psychology. | | | |Identify major philosophers in the western tradition that were primary contributors to the | | | | |formation of psychology as a discipline. | | | | |Explore the development of the science of psychology during the 19th century. | | | | |Examine the historical elements of the study of the physical body and brain in antiquity. | | | |Describe major developments in medicine and biological studies that contributed to the early | | | | |field of psychology. | | | | |Identify major historical steps toward the mapping of brain structures that are associated | | | | |with behavioral processes. | | | |Reading |Read Ch. of A History of Modern Psychology. |Finish by Wed. |0 | |Reading |Read Ch. 2 of A History of Modern Psychology. |Finish by |0 | | | |Fri. | | |Reading |Read Ch. 3 of A History of Modern Psychology. |Finish by |0 | | | |Sun. | | |Reading |Read this week’s Electronic Reserve Readings. Finish by |0 | | | |Mon. | | |Participation |Participate in class discussion. |Submit 2 posts |2 | | | |on 4 of 7 days | | | |Remember to participate in the class discussions 4 out of 7 days during the week (for | | | | |clarification see Course and Instructor Policies).Please review the What I Expect materials | | | | |in the Course Materials Forum. You may also want to review the How You Will Be Evaluated | | | | |materials to see how your participation posts will be graded. Individual posts to the Main | | | | |Forum will count towards your class participation score. | | | |Discussi on Questions |Respond to weekly discussion questions. Wed. , Fri. , & |2 | | | |Sun. | | | |DQs will be posted in the Main Forum. Please review the What I Expect materials in the Course| | | | |Materials Forum. You may also want to review the How You Will Be Evaluated materials to see | | | | |how your discussion questions will be graded. | | |Individual |Check into the class. Prepare for the course by reading all of the posts in the Course |Tues. , 10/30/12|0 | |Check Into Class |Materials Forum, the Main Forum, and the Chat Forum. Download the syllabus, instructor | | | | |policies and course assignment calendar. Post a reply to the Check-in thread in the Main | | | | |Forum, under the thread Getting Organized.Please indicate that you have read the following:| | | | | | | | | |You have read the syllabus and instructor policies documents and understand what is required | | | | |in this course. | | | |You have read all the materials I posted in the Course Materials Forum, the Main F orum, and | | | | |the Chat Forum. | | | | |You understand and agree to the participation requirements. | | | |Individual |Post your personal bio to the Chat Forum. Please ensure you state what your expectations are |Wed. , 10/31/12 |0 | |Post Bio in Chat Forum |for this class.

American mindset Essay

Cheri Register earned a PhD and pursued the career of a professor, yet she cannot get over the fact that she had been raised by parents who belonged to the working class (Register 10). Their work is â€Å"revile[d]† by affluent Americans, including those that belong to the same class as Register, now that she has escaped life in the small town of America that she grew up in (Register 19). Her old town continues to appear as â€Å"working-class in character† (Register 17). Her daughters, who have been raised in a city, miss the presence of the likes of Gap and Contempo in the working class town (Register 17). According to Register, class consciousness is an integral element of the American mindset. Even as those Americans who do not have to provide cheap labor for their children to achieve â€Å"something different and better† find it convenient to look down upon the labor class, Register believes that the services provided by the poor people of America are â€Å"essential† albeit â€Å"unpleasant† (Register 19). Somebody has to work in the packinghouse, just as somebody else is required to work in a food processing plant at the minimum wage rate. Those who escape the working class lifestyle are individuals like Register who find it easy to perform mental labor and obtain the academic degrees required to climb the ladder of material success (Register). As the example of Gap and Contempo shows, people from different socioeconomic backgrounds in the United States must needs have different buying habits. When unemployed people from Register’s small town are invited to a Christmas store, some of them refuse to purchase â€Å"‘anything nice’† (Register 21). A sense of â€Å"deprivation† has been built into their mindsets (Register 21). Yet, those who are able to afford luxuries are conscious of the differences between a â€Å"paper-thin deli turkey† and â€Å"a frozen turkey loaf† (Register 13). What is more, people from the working class, perhaps because they are exposed for long periods of time to disagreeable working conditions, have come to believe that the rich and educated people are amoral. Register writes: â€Å"My dad once paid this great compliment to my brother-in-law: ‘Rog is such a nice guy you’d never even know he was educated’† (13). She further describes the teaching of her father thus: Hadn’t he taught me that rich people aren’t happy, that Republicans will do you in for money, that â€Å"we . . . the little guys . . . the ordinary working people† are little and ordinary precisely because we are too moral to do what it takes to get rich? (Register 6- 7). Of course, the major part of Register’s book is a description of the labor union strike that she observed as a youth in small town America. The working class felt exploited by the rich. Register was confronted by the following question being worked on for a solution: â€Å"Whose rights should prevail, those who supply the money or those who supply the labor that keeps towns like Albert Lea vital† (Register 20)? It was the first time that the author was exposed to the word â€Å"Unfair† being applied â€Å"to weighty questions of justice that may be in dispute forever† (Register 20). This is to say that the poor would continue feeling exploited by the rich, who may or may not be concerned about ethics and equality as they seek greater profits by offering low wages to those that work hard to sustain their families, hoping for their children to have a better life. The author writes about â€Å"powerless workers up against a heartless adversary† (Register 163). On a similar note, her great-grandfather had written about the picturesque landscape being destroyed because of the greed of those that hoped to make money, whether they did so through deforestation or construction of manufacturing plants (Register 18). Thus, people from low socioeconomic backgrounds express themselves as ethical as compared to those who compete against each other to get richer by the day regardless of whether they must usurp the rights of others in the process. As mentioned before, those who are well-off, on the other hand, continue to look down upon the kind of work performed by the working class folks even though their services are equally important, according to the author. Although Register would not like her children to be exposed to unlikable working conditions that her parents had survived, she would not stop respecting the dignity of people from low socioeconomic backgrounds. She understands their mindset better than those individuals from the rich class who have never seen their parents as low wage workers. People who have never seen their loved ones in difficult conditions may continue to exploit the poor. As Register writes, this conflict may be never-ending. In other words, the capitalists of America may continue offering low wages to labor in order to enhance profits. For this reason, Register’s book offers lavish food for thought to educated Americans. Due to their efforts in the right direction, that is, to reverse the plague of inequality, it is possible that in future working class Americans would stop feeling belittled by the capitalists even as the latter would stop usurping their human rights.

Religion in China: Chinese Buddhism

As of July 2008, the population of the People’s Republic of China has reached 1,330,044,544 which has always been governed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) since October 1, 1949 (Central Intelligence Agency). Though PRC is under very strict communist control, the country has already opened itself up to the rest of the world after the death of Mao Zedong in 1976. Deng Xiaoping turned the country into a market-driven economy issuing the Open Door Policy and engaging into foreign relations with countries like the United States of America.Aside from rejoining the world affairs, the people also experienced independence after being inhibited by the Cultural Revolution which suppressed all forms of freedom. One kind of freedom that the people have experienced is religious freedom (Central Intelligence Agency). PRC is a multi-religious country; hence, the country has diverse religious practices and beliefs (Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the United States of America) .The major religions, though, in the country are Buddhism, Taoism, Catholicism and Protestantism; however, there are still Chinese who practice traditional folk religions. In 1997, there are already more that 100 million Chinese who devote themselves to the religions mentioned above. Moreover, there are 85,000 locations dedicated to religious activities, 300,000 clergies, more than 3,000 religious organization, 74 schools and colleges managed by religious organizations (Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the United States of America).This paper, though, will center on Chinese Buddhism and attempts to prove that is the country’s true religion. According to Travel China Guide, the most important religion in China is Buddhism. About 102 million Chinese practice Chinese Buddhism, making China the country which has the most number of Buddhists in the year 2007 (Buddhist-Tourism). In 1997, there are already about 13,000 Buddhist temples and 200,000 monks and nuns. In addi tion, there is also a Buddhist Association of China (Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the United States of America).Gautama Buddha and His Teachings In general, Buddhism was formed through a Nepal prince, Siddharta Gautama, of the Shakya family. Ever since he was born in the 6th century BC, he was not aware of suffering of the people outside the palace; however, when he did become aware of this, he got upset and decided to leave the life of royalty. After leaving the life he used to live in the palace, Gautama resolved to practice asceticism for seven years only to find out that an ascetic lifestyle is not sufficient to take away suffering (Theobald).He then added meditation with asceticism and through meditation he was able to formulate inferences which turned him into a Buddha or an â€Å"Enlightened Man. † Afterwards, he went on and spread his teachings called the â€Å"Wheel of Teaching† – where the â€Å"wheel† stood as a symbol of Buddhi sm – and died at Kusinara (Theobald). Gautama Buddha formulated the Four Noble Truths which can be summed up as life is suffering due to the continuous yearning for survival and sensual pleasures (Theobald). Thus, Buddha devised the Eightfold Path that would restrain suffering.This Eightfold Path consists of (1) right views, (2) right intentions, (3) right speech, (4) right action, (5) right livelihood, (6) right effort, (7) right mindfulness and (8) right concentration which can be attained by conforming to a strict moral discipline, avoiding evil actions, doing good, cleansing the mind through mental discipline and mending it through the important aspects of doing good (Theobald). The Buddhist religion has what they call the Three Jewels which consists of the Buddha, the teachings and the community; moreover, the center of any Buddhist world is called Mount Sumeru that has its own Buddha (Theobald).Arrival of Buddhism in China Centuries after Gautama Buddha passed away, Bud dhism was finally able to enter China and began to co-exist with Confucianism and Taoism (Theobald). The Chinese Empire was able to gain contact with Buddhism in the Silk Road where there was a constant movement of traders and missionary. Chinese people were able to mingle with Buddhists from Central Asia – this was made possible due to the spread of Han Dynasty (25 AD – 220 AD) to the Central Asia during the 1st century AD in which increased the interaction of China and Central Asia through trading (BDEA Inc.& BuddhaNet). The Emperor Ming Ti of the Han Dynasty who ruled from 57 AD to 75 AD is said to have been a huge follower of Buddhism and Taoism (International Dunhuang Project). It was said that the Emperor dreamt of a foreign god – this triggered his sudden decision to sent messengers in India to look for Buddhist texts and teachers (Edkins, 88-89). Buddhists from India went to China along with the messengers that the Emperor sent as there is already a dema nd to translate Buddhist texts to Chinese. Buddhist monks like Lokashema, Kaspaya, Dharmaraksha, Kashiammadanga, Anshigao, etc.translated various Buddhist texts like the Shravakanaya texts, the Mahayana texts done by Lokashema, the Sutra of Forty-Two Sections done by Kashiapmadanga (who was said to have died in Lo-yang), Kasyapa and Dharmaraksha, etc. (BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet; Edkins, 89; International Dunhuang Project). Along with other Buddhist texts being translated, Buddhism was spread more in China leading to the formation of a Chinese monastic order. In addition, there were already monks that are of Chinese decent – the first of them is said to be Anshigao’s disciple (BDEA Inc.& BuddhaNet). However, the Chinese were not able to comprehend the teachings of Buddhism at once for the translators used Taoist terms in order to translate the Buddhist terms; they encountered difficulty in finding the appropriate Chinese words to translate Buddhist concepts (BDEA Inc. & Bud dhaNet). Hence, the Chinese associated Buddhism to Taoism. Buddhism continued to grow despite the fall of the Han Dynasty in the early 3rd century. Translated Buddhist texts kept on going around and monasteries are being put up (BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet).Chinese monks, like Dao-an, who is considered to be the most excellent Chinese monks of the 4th century, continued to invite translators like Kumarajiva from Kucha, who translated more important Buddhist texts and also revised the early translated Buddhist books (BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet). Development of Chinese Buddhism In Travel Guide China, the development of Buddhism in China is divided into four periods. The first period is Buddhism in Han Dynasty which was already discussed earlier, it was also in this period where the White Horse Temple was put up which is said to be the first Buddhist monastery in China (Theobald).The second period was in Jin during the 265 AD to 420 AD – at the period of the Northern and Southern Dynasties (385 AD – 589 AD). At the period of Jin, more Buddhist texts were translated, written and spread out, Buddhism became even more popular all over China and there was a growth in number of Chinese Buddhists (Travel China Guide). The third period was from the Sui Dynasty (581 AD – 618 AD) to the Tang Dynasty (618 AD – 907 AD). During these two dynasties, Buddhism reached its peak and its development had been exceptional.This unparalleled development of Buddhism during this period was because the Sui emperors are Buddhists and the Tang emperors accepted the growth of other religions despite being strict Taoists (Travel China Guide). During the Tang Dynasty, Buddhism became a part of Chinese Art, Chinese Literature, Chinese Sculpture, Chinese Architecture and Chinese Philosophy (BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet). The development was, however, halted during the late feudal society due to the heightening of social unrest in the country (Travel China Guide).The slumped developmen t of Buddhism occurred on the dying period of the Manchu Dynasty when the country got involved in wars against the Great Britain and series of peasant uprisings (ie. Boxer Rebellion) where China got striped off of its land and was divided among western countries and Japan in what was called the Spheres of Influence. The foreign occupation was followed by the fall of the Manchu Dynasty which was caused by the rise of the Nationalists, followed by the rise of the Communists which again triggered another civil revolution in the country which was briefly cut short due to World War II.Nonetheless, Buddhism was able to recover after the establishment of the PRC and even more after the reign of Mao Zedong. In addition, Buddhism has progressed into three different forms, namely, Han Buddhism, Tibetan Buddhism and Southern Buddhism (Travel China Guide). Schools of Chinese Buddhism There were different schools of Chinese Buddhism which emerged during the Tang Dynasty. It was said that these s chools were derived from old forms of Buddhism that came to China, however, modern scholars stated that the said connections are most like tampered and flawed.Nonetheless, there are four main Chinese Buddhism schools that surfaced during the 7th century, namely, (1) T’ien-t’ai, (2) Hua-yen, (3) Ch’an, and (4) Pure Land (Lusthaus). T’ien-t’ai School This school was founded by Zhiyi (Lusthaus). He led Chinese Buddhism to a direction different from the path that various Buddhist theories and practices are leading it into. Zhiyi recommended a comprehensive synthesis. The whole T’ien-t’ai school was rooted on the Lotus Sutra – in this school, they view the Lotus Sutra as the carrier of salvation based on practice (China Views).This school is portrayed as principled and meditation- and philosophy-centered. It served as the connector of the developing Buddhism in Northern China as both religion of faith and discipline, and the intelle ctual tradition in Southern China (China Views). Hua-yen School While T’ien-t’ai School was based on the Lotus Sutra, the Hua-yen School has the Avatamsaka Sutra as their root (Lusthaus). The leading belief of Hua-yen School is â€Å"dharmadatu† or the â€Å"universal causation of the realm of the law† (China Views).The said realm refers to the whole of the universe including all of its dimensions while the universal causation is a philosophical development that is purely Chinese. The universal causation is an extension of Buddha’s teachings regarding â€Å"dependant origination† (China Views). Ch’an School The Ch’an School is the result of the reaction that rose against the T’ien-t’ai School and Hua-yen School (Lusthaus). The Ch’an School viewed the two other schools as an impediment towards enlightenment due to their capacious and complicated literatures. This school centers on meditation.Ch’an Sch ool was founded by an Indian monk from Southern India named Bodhidharma who arrived in China around the 5th and 6th century. He taught according to the Lankavatara Sutra and also practiced a tremendously simple mediation (China Views). Pure Land School Unlike the other three schools of Chinese Buddhism which center on devotional elements and rituals, the Pure Land School which focuses on the very fundamentals of devotionalism (Lusthaus). In addition, compared to the other schools, the founder or the origin of Pure Land is not known. However, there are contributors named Tanluan, Dao Chuo and Shandao.Aside from centering on devotionalism, the school also stresses the faith in Amitabha Buddha (China Views). The devotion will be centered on Amitabha in order for him to grant them salvation which is in the form of being born again the in the west pure land. Furthermore, this school has also ignored the need for self-development through the teachings of Buddha regarding the way of salvat ion (China Views). The scriptures that the Pure Land School use are the Larger and Smaller Sukhavati Sutras and the Guan Wuliangshuofo Jing (Lusthaus). Chinese Buddhist Temple and DeitiesThe temples of Chinese Buddhism are built according to the palaces of their imperial family and are definitely unlike the temples of Buddhism from other Buddhist countries like India. It is established facing south and have three cluster of buildings divided by courtyards (BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet). The first cluster is the front hall where the four massive images of the Four Heavenly Kings (Devas) greet anyone who enters (BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet). The Devas are the Guardians of the Four Directions and two of each are placed on the right and left. Thus, the hall is called â€Å"Si-Tien Wang Tien† – a name derived from the Four Heavenly Kings (BDEA Inc.& BuddhaNet). Visitors are mostly greeted by the soon-to-be Buddha called Maitreya Buddha, commonly known as the â€Å"Laughing Buddha† or â€Å"Ta-pao Mi-Lei-Fwo. † This particular Buddha is usually the one with a fat paunch. Precisely at the back of the Maitreya Buddha is the Projector of Buddhist Temples and Faith, the great King, Wei-to (BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet). He appears to be dressed in his full armor and is either holding a staff or a weapon in a shape of scepter. Aside from being the Projector of Buddhist Temples and Faith, Wei-to is also called the Protector of Buddhist Books (BDEA Inc.& BuddhaNet). Wei-to is always built facing the Great Hall or â€Å"Ta-Hung-Pau-Tien† – the second cluster which is separated away from the front hall by either a wall or a courtyard (BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet). The main altar of the temple is found in this hall, the image of the altar being Sakyamuni Buddha and his two chief students, Mahakasyapa and Ananda, if not, the place of the two students can be replaced by other Buddhas from the past. Even the image of the main altar can be different; temples of Pu re Land Schools will have the image of Amitabha Buddha.Nonetheless, on the both left and right side of the main altar are the two Great Bodhisattvas, Manjusri or Wen-Shu-Shih-Li and Samantabhadra or Pu-Hsien, however, this too can vary (BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet). The east and west halls of this hall have the assembled figures of the Eighteen Arhats. These Arhats or Lohas are said to be in control of different supernatural powers (BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet). On the north wall is the images of Dipankara or Jan-teng Fwo and other popular and non-popular Bodhisattvas. There are also instances when the image of the Protector of Buddhism, Kuan Ti, is also found in this hall.The Great Hall serves as the place where the dedicated Buddhists pray and offer flowers, fruits, etc. in the main altar (BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet). The last cluster is the back hall which is, most of the time, split into smaller halls or smaller rooms. In the center of this hall is usually an altar of a Buddha or a Bodhisattva ( BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet). The right is usually the funerary tablet of the founder of the temple while the left is usually a hall for either teaching or meditating. Finally, there are living quarters, dining area and kitchen that are located either on the side of the three clusters or at their back (BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet).Chinese Buddhism in Modern China The Chinese people realized the need for Chinese Buddhism to modernize as early as the 20th century. There were efforts to modernize Chinese Buddhism and these efforts began during the Manchu Dynasty led by Yang Wen-hui by republishing and redispersing Buddhist texts (Lancashire, 220). He also tried to learn the significance of Chinese Buddhism in the modern world as a whole. Through his examinations, he was able to construe that Buddhims goes well with modern science, and, also, Chinese Buddhists have a role to serve – to introduce Buddhism to the outside world particularly in the West (Lancashire, 220).Hence, he encouraged the Chinese Buddhists to recognize the value of modern science and the existing connection between it and Buddhism, and also helped the Chinese Buddhist to prepare for the missionary tasks they have to fulfill in introducing the religion to the west (Lancashire, 221). It continued until the Chinese Buddhist Association was also established in 1929. Membership for the association was divided between the laity and the clergy with the latter having more dominance (Lancashire, 222).During the early stages of the association, it was able to saw of the two most politcally active monks of that period, namely, T’ai-hsii and Yuan-ying. T’ai-shii was said to be the leader of the progressives while Yuan-ying was the major head of the much contemporary ideas (Lancashire, 222). Personal Interest: Marriage Buddhist weddings are usually characterized as worldly and materialistic, however, the couples who are about to be wed always make sure that they will be able to receive the blessing of the monks from local Buddhist temples exactly right after accomplishing the civil registration procedures (BDEA Inc.& BuddhaNet). Chinese Buddhists strictly abide to their religion that even if two people are already married in a civil ceremony, they still need to have a Buddhist wedding in order to be considered as rightfully married (Urban Dharma). Choosing for the wedding day is usually relied on fortune tellers, however, the couple or the their parents could now have the right to choose for the appropriate wedding day (Urban Dharma). Before the wedding, as early as 5:30 AM, the family of the man will go to the house of the woman with trays that they will give to the woman (Walsh and Poremba).Each tray has its own corresponding purpose and may contain things like wine, fruit, traditional and western cake, tea, meat, trau cau and jewelry. One tray will have a pair of candles that will be lit up by the fathers of the soon-to-be groom and bride to represent the union of the two families, in addition, there will also be a tray that will have the traditional gown that the bride will wear for the wedding (Walsh and Poremba).A roasted pig will also be given to the family of the bride; this roasted pork will be cut into three, the family of the woman will keep the middle part while the rest will be given back to the family of the man (Urban Dharma). Afterwards, a tea ceremony will be conducted in which the couple will serve the elders of the woman’s family with tea and, in return, they will give them red packets with money or jewelry inside. The tea ceremony will also be repeated in the house of the man (Urban Dharma).The wedding ceremony will come after, in Buddhist weddings, the groom and the bride will be the ones who will administer the wedding ceremony (Walsh and Poremba). Just as how early the groom and his family went to the bride’s house for the gifts and ceremonies, they groom will again go to the house of the bride, or wherever she is st aying, early in the morning with his groomsmen. Before the groom could enter the house, the friends of the bride will ask him questions that are difficult enough to test if he is suitable for the bride.In addition, another test will be on the financial aspect where the groom will give the bridesmaid red packets with money or jewelry (Urban Dharma). Afterwards, the bride will bid farewell to her family and will pay respects to her ancestors in the their family’s spirit house, the groom will also follow suit, offering a bowl of trau cau to them with him (Walsh and Poremba). The couple along with the bridesmaids and groomsmen will then go to the house of the groom. The mother of the bride and the mother-in-law will put earrings on the bride to signify her virginity (Walsh and Poremba). Respects will again be paid to the ancestors of the groom.Again, a tea ceremony will be held where the groom and the bride will serve their parents. The tea ceremony will symbolize that the couple is married, it is also this ceremony which makes the bride a part of the groom’s family (Urban Dharma; Walsh and Poremba). Professional Interest: Interacting with Chinese Investors The essential beliefs and values of the Chinese are deeply rooted from philosophies and teachings of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism (Miroslawski, 46). Hence, even the holistic configuration of the Chinese society has its origin in the three major philosophies and religions in the country.Thus, in order to fully comprehend the Chinese culture, one must understand the different philosophies that the Chinese believe in and how these philosophies affect their way of life. In his study, Miroslawski (2008) compared and contrasted China and Germany using the cultural dimensions formulated by Geert Hofstede. In the comparison, it was learned that the organizational model of the Chinese emphasized on the necessity of a single supervisor at the top who will give those below instructions that should be fo llowed.This model is due to the Chinese inclination towards extensive power distance and the necessity for them to have an apparent and influential type of leadership (Miroslawski, 46-47). The Chinese are also collective in nature, hence, they always put the welfare of their group over their personal interests (Miroslawski, 47). Chinese have the tendency to not to speak out from the group just so they could maintain their good relationship with one another – this is also the case by not choosing to speak out towards their superiors.Aside from Hofstede’s explanation that if there is a high power distance, there is also high collectivism in the society, the organization model can also be attributed to China’s extended family and patriarchal society. Moreover, it is also due to Confucius’ teachings about filial piety (Miroslawski, 48). It is also because of the fact that Chinese are collectivists that their communication vary from those who are inside their group and those who are outside. This is also due to the huge amount of loyalty that the Chinese put on one another (Miroslawski, 48).Another finding was that China has a very high-context culture, hence, the value on face-saving is high and tremenduously important (Miroslawski, 48). Face-saving refers to instituing, sustaining and intensifying status. Despite being collectivists, the Chinese still give themselves value by having a significant status in the group, still, this reflects only within the group as every group tries to contain all their knowledge within them. In order to comprehend Chinese more easily, then, they must be from a high-context culture as well or at least attempt to study their ways (Miroslawski, 48).Conclusion Chinese Buddhists range from 50% to 80% of the Chinese population, their infrastructures are more than 10,000 in numbers while there are hundreds of thousands Chinese Buddhist monks, nuns, lamas and Buddhas (Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the United States of America; Vipassana Foundation). The Chinese have, indeed, welcomed and nourished the Buddhist religion ever since it arrived in China during the Han Dynasty. Emperors were open enough to accept its unstoppable growth and even allow it continue its development.Despite the turmoils that the country experienced during its fall at the period of the Manchu, the Chinese people still resurrected and modernized the religion in order to make it still fitting with the changing times. It can be said that the Chinese Buddhists are very loyal to their religion that when it comes to marriage, the couple should still be wed in a Buddhist ceremony in order to be considered married. Though the Chinese are no longer particular about having their child marrying another Chinese, they would still want the couple to undergo a Buddhist wedding ceremony.The rituals, the ceremonies and the traditions are still being strictly followed. However, there are practices that were no longer co nstantly done, like parents arranging the marriage of their children, going to the matchmakers, and consultation with forture tellers. Chinese are now allowing their children to chose who they want to marry irregardless of nationality and the couple are also free to choose what day they would like their wedding to be held. Perhaps the most difficult matter where other people from other countries to get along with the Chinese is regarding business.Chinese tends not to share what they know with others even with their fellow Chinese. Moreover, they also wanted to play a big role in a certain agreement. In addition, engaging a business with Chinese might take a lot of time as they will always consult their group regarding the business at hand. These qualities of the Chinese is attributable to their high power distance, collectivism and context culture (Miroslawski, 46-48). Chinese prefer having a someone above them who are capable of leading them irregardless of the circumstances.They w ill always put the best interests of the group their their own and they do not share anything to anyone easily for they find it hard to trust other people, however, they gave their utmost loyalty to their group. This is due to their philosophies and religion – Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism (Miroslawski, 46). Works Cited BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet. â€Å"Buddhist Studies: Chinese Buddhist Temple. † 2008. Buddhist Studies: Buddha Dharma Education Association & BuddhaNet. 13 October 2008 . BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet.â€Å"Buddhist Studies: Mahayana Buddhism: Chinese. † 2004. Buddhist Studies: Buddha Dharma Education & BuddhaNet. 13 October 2008 . BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet. â€Å"Buddhist Studies: Personal Ceremonies in Buddhism: Marriage. † 2008. Buddhist Studies: Buddha Dharma Education Association & BuddhaNet. 15 October 2008 . BDEA Inc. & BuddhaNet. â€Å"Timeline of Major Events in Chinese Buddhism. † 2008. Buddhist Studies: Buddha Dharma Education Associat ion & BuddhaNet.13 October 2008 . Buddhist-Tourism. â€Å"Statistics on Buddhism, Statistics on Buddhist Religion, Buddhist World Statistics Description. † 2007. Buddist-Tourism. 14 October 2008 . Central Intelligence Agency. â€Å"CIA – The World Factbook — China. † 9 October 2008. Central Intelligence Agency. 14 October 2008 . China Views. â€Å"Chinese Mahayana Buddhism – A Complete History.† 2007. China Views. 13 October 2008 . Edkins, Joseph. Chinese Buddhism: A Volume of Sketches, Historical, Descriptive and Critical. New Jersey: Gorgias Press LLC, 2003. Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the United States of America. â€Å"White Paper–Freedom of Religious Belief in China. † October 1997. Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the United States of America. 14 October 2008 . International Dunhuang Project. â€Å"Chinese Buddhism on the Silk Road.† n. d. International Dunhuang Project. 13 October 2008 . Lancashire, Douglas. â€Å"Buddhism in Modern China. † Religion in Communist Lands (1977, 5 (4)): 220-228. Lusthaus, Dan. â€Å"Buddhist philosophy, Chinese: Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy Online. † 1998. Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy. 13 October 2008 . Lusthaus, Dan. â€Å"Buddhist philosophy, Chinese: Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy Online. † 1998. Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy.13 October 2008 . Lusthaus, Dan. â€Å"Buddhist philosophy, Chinese: Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy Online. † 1998. Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy. 13 October 2008 . Lusthaus, Dan. â€Å"Buddhist philosophy, Chinese: Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy Online. † 1998. Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy. 13 October 2008 . Lusthaus, Dan. â€Å"Buddhist Philosophy, Chinese: Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy Online.† 1998. Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy. 13 October 2008 . Miroslawski, Gregor. â€Å"International Expan sion & Market Entry of Mainland Chinese Businesses in Germany within the Context of Culture. † China Media Research (2008, 4 (2)): 46-59. Theobald, Ulrich. â€Å"Religions in China, Chinese Religions – Buddhism ( ). † 2000. ChinaKnowledge – a universal guide for China studies. 13 October 2008 . Travel China Guide. â€Å"China Buddhism. † 14 October 2008.Travel China Guide. 13 October 2008 . Urban Dharma. â€Å"Newsletter – 2/10/04. † 10 February 2004. Urbad Dharma. 15 October 2008 . Vipassana Foundation. â€Å"Buddhists in the World. † July 2008. The Dhamma. 15 October 2008 . Walsh, Richard T. and Barbara Poremba. â€Å"Buddhist Wedding Ceremony. † 1998. Salem State College. 15 October 2008 .