Unbowed A Memoir by Wangari Maathai - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 2 Words: 550 Downloads: 1 Date added: 2018/12/30 Category Literature Essay Type Book review Level High school Tags: Autobiography Essay Did you like this example? Unbowed is a compelling and inspiring memoir of the first environmentalist African woman to have earned the honor of being awarded a Nobel Peace Prize. Wangari Maathai takes the reader through from her childhood until she becomes a professor. Through her scientific abilities, she identifies environmental degradation and sets on a movement to bring solutions to the problems. The Environmental Maathai recognizes the problems of corruption, mismanagement of the environment through deforestation, and oppression. She becomes aware that advocating for a democracy alone would not bring a solution to the deforestation problems. In the due process, she fears for her own life and that of the family (Maathai 67). Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Unbowed: A Memoir by Wangari Maathai" essay for you Create order Maathai establishes the Green Belt Movement to counter the environmental problem on her land. She sensitized on the issue of government officials owning public lands. She also emphasizes on the protection of biodiversity based on the numerous benefits that biodiversity has on the environment. Biodiversity, for instance, helps to establish a balance in the population as prey animals feed on others. Maathai also participated in the National Council of Woman to motivate women to produce seedlings in a move to protect the forests. This was primarily done to renew the Kenya and the earth as a whole. She appreciated the role of trees that will help make a difference in the world as a whole which is the reason she earned a peace prize. The author identifies the relationship between the government regime and the environmental degradation. She argues that poor policies are subject to deforestation and other malpractices affecting the environment. The result heavily relies on the innocent citizens. Trees provide the solution for some issues. First, they help the women in the society prepare nutritious dishes. Also, they offer wood for fencing. Trees also assist in binding the soil as well as protection of the watersheds. Most prominent is the fact that trees would help to attract the birds which contribute to enriching biodiversity (Maathai 68). Perhaps the reason that Maathai emphasized on rehabilitating the environment owes to the fact that trees help to establish an environment that nurtures all life. In this book, Maathai identifies many issues with the environment. She explains that deforestation is the main problem affecting the environment as a whole. As a result, the effects are felt in the whole biological system. For instance, cutting of trees destroys homes for animals which results in driving them out. The result is that some species are missing and continue being at risk if deforestation is not sensitized. But even though, there are other critical components of the government policies. They have equally contributed to the degradation of the environment using the concept of land privatization. Conclusion Unbowed: A Memoir is quite an informative book addressing an important issue of environmental degradation. Maathai explains the problems with land policies and practices which creates a ground for more controversy and speculation. Her argument is based on democracy and how it would help improve the environment. However, she cannot find the answers to more complex issues on the general biological systems especially since it has effects on peoples livelihood. Although she sensitizes on the conservation of trees, she has to explain a lot more than democracy for efficiency in conserving the environment. Works cited MAATHAI, ALSO BY WANGARI. Unbowed: A Memoir.

Com100 Non-Verbal Communication Essay - 1328 Words

University of Phoenix Material Nonverbal, Interpersonal, and Textual Communication Worksheet Nonverbal communication plays an essential role in any conversation. Individuals who are aware of nonverbal actions during conversations can more effectively interpret what is being communicated. Look at the interactions between the individuals in the following photos and interpret what you think is being expressed through nonverbal communication. Please describe the nonverbal cues that lead you to these interpretations. |[pic] |What is being said by both people nonverbally? | | |†¦show more content†¦Arms folded with| | |steely eye contact and the facial expression that matches her | | |thoughts, the interviewer is expressing that she’s not | | |impressed and you (the interviewing party) are not worth it. | Compose responses to each of the following questions in separate paragraphs. 1. Which of the images demonstrates an interpersonal communication exchange? How can you tell? The first image is a perfect example of interpersonal communications because the man and woman are interacting with each other. Even though the communication between them is negative, it is interactive. The body language 2. What types of interpersonal communication are being displayed in the images? Why? The type of interpersonal communications on display in the above pictures

Pauls Case Essay Example For Students

Pauls Case Essay Complications usually arise after a writer introduces the main point in a story. These complications are usually the result of conflicts. There are three kinds of conflict within a story (Trimmer and Jennings 4). The first kind of conflict is conflict among the characters. The second kind of conflict is conflict between a character and his or her environment. The third kind of conflict is conflict among the thoughts, needs, or emotions of a single character. After conflict arises, this is a moment of crisis or perhaps better known as the climax of the story. This usually marks the end of development to any other major action in the story (Trimmer and Jennings 5). The focus at this point is on the conflict in hopes of untangling or resolving it. The first kind of conflict is conflict among characters. This kind of conflict is present in John Updikes AP and Willa Cathers Pauls Case. Sammy, the main character in AP, wants to impress some town girls12a and Lengel, the store manager, wants to humiliate them. Because of this conflict, Sammy makes a decision to quit his job in an effort to become a hero to the girls. Lengel realizes this is a hasty decision and tells Sammy, youll9e feel this for the rest of your life(1140). However, Sammy feels once you begin a gesture, its fatal not to go through with it(1140). Updike writes, I fe how hard the world going to be to me hereafter(1141). Sammy realizes he has made a mistake. Paul in Pauls Case is in conflict with his father and cannot live up to his expectations. His father constantly holds a young man, who is a business clerk, up to him as a role model. According to Cather, it his fathers deepest hope that he would pattern (84). However, Paul despises the thought. He does not have any interest in being a common businessperson. Instead, his interest is in arts and theater. However, his father does not encourage these interests. In fact, he bans him from the theater where he works as an usher. According to Cather, this takes away his bone(87). Paul no longer has a place to escape into his fantasy world. The second kind of conflict is conflict between a character and his or her environment. This kind of conflict is evident in John Updikes AP, as well as,13 Willa Cathers Pauls Case. In AP, Sammy disregards the rules of the supermarket in an attempt to be a hero. Despite the fact that the girls were inappropriately dressed for a grocery store, Sammy tells the manager, you9e did not have to embarrass themI quit(1140). Paul in Pauls Case is in total conflict with his environment. He is dissatisfied with his home and school. According to Cather, Paul finds the schoolroom repulsive; the bare floors and naked walls(85). He describes his room as his ugly sleeping chamber(82). Cather writes that when he has to leave the theater and return home, he experiences the hopeless feeling of sinking back forever into the ugliness and commonness(82). The third kind of conflict is conflict among the thoughts, needs, and emotions of a single character. Again, this conflict is evident in the two stories previously mentioned. Sammy in AP tolls20a with the idea of whether to take up for the girls or respect the rules of his environment. He wants to be a hero in the eyes of the girls12a but feels he must finish what he starts. However, he makes a rash decision from reacting to the situation instead of thinking things through. After he hastily quits his job and exits the grocery store, the girls he tries to impress is6a gone. Sammy wonders in his mind if he is a fool or a hero. According to Updike, my stomach kind of fell(1141). Perhaps he is a fool. Paul in Pauls Case is in constant conflict with his thoughts, needs, and emotions. He is so unhappy, fearful, and depressed that he prefers to withdraw into a fantasy world to live. According to Cather, It is at the theaterwhere Paul really liv; the rest but a sleep and a forgetting(85). Paul is on an emotional roller coaster and does not appear to know how to stop it. .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3 , .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3 .postImageUrl , .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3 , .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3:hover , .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3:visited , .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3:active { border:0!important; } .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3:active , .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3 .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .ucf18380906132ad9f3144840e2767cc3:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: B R Richardson Timber Product Corporation Commerce EssayIn fact, he withdraws so far from society and enters a fantasy world that he chooses not to accept the real world. Eventually, he chooses to end his life and jumps in front of a train. All three kinds of conflict are present in Pauls Case and AP. Both Sammy and Paul have conflict with other characters, conflict with their environment, and inner conflict of their thoughts and emotions. The different kinds of conflicts once presented in these stories definitely add richness to the stories and make them more interesting. In addition, conflict in a story helps the reader untangle the web that a writer weaves.

Wang Tao Vs Chang Chih-tung Essays - Chinese Philosophy,

Wang T'ao vs Chang Chih-tung Wang T'ao vs Chang Chih-tung The Opium War in 1839 marked the end of China's status as an independent civilization. The Opium War introduced the power of western armies and technology that the Chinese lacked. The war resulted in foreign intervention and control of Chinese provinces and cities, but it was not until the Taiping rebellion (1850-1864), the most disastrous civil war in human history, that the Ching government and its people realized that reform was necessary. The "self-strengthening" movement, one wave of reform, aimed to achieve stronger military power while preserving the traditional way of life, and Wang T'ao was among the most famous scholars advocating such reform. By the late nineteenth century, conservative reactions swept the country, and scholars such as Chang Chih-tung believed western techniques should only be used to defend the Chinese way. This resistance to reform was held by three principles: 1) ancestral institutions should never be changed 2) successful government depended on the men not the laws 3) teachings from China are superior to those of the West. On the surface, it appears that Wang T'ao and Chang Chih-tung dramatically differed in their thoughts of how and if China should adopt western ideals. A thorough analysis of their work, however, reveals the many similarities between the two individuals. Though the two had different plans for achieving their objectives, their ultimate goals was for China to excel and become great once again. As a scholar, Wang T'ao had visited many foreign countries including Japan and Europe, and by the time he became a journalist, he had already established many contacts with the outside world. Having such a background, Wang T'ao naturally believed that although China should still follow the "Way of sages", she must adopt the Western methods of defense and administration and renovate much of Chinese society. In his published article, On Reform his views are expressed. Wang T'ao believes that when China adopts the western methods it will surpass the West, "a sailboat differs in speed from a steamship; though both are vehicles." He does not ask the Chinese to invent new methods but only to take advantage of their resources, "When new methods do not exist, people will not think of changes; but when there are new instruments, to copy them is possible." Although the West may be superior in terms of techniques and technology; they bicker and fight among themselves and"indulge in insults". The Chinese should not follow their way of life but only use their instruments. The Way of Confucius should be followed and unchanged by all men for they must follow the three bonds (subject to master and ruler, son to father, wife to husband) and the four Cardinal virtues (decorum, righteousness, integrity, and sense of shame). Wang T'ao believes reform within the government and Chinese way of life is also necessary for China to become a nation on a par with the Western nations. Among some of these reforms include: the abolishment of the examination essays as a way to select civil servants, change the currently inefficient training of the army and naval troops, change the empty show of schools, and have the laws and regulation set by the government be fair and just to all individuals. The most important reform, however, is that the government should have the power to change customs so that people could gradually be accustomed to their new environment. It is the able people that can help China move forward, "the weapons we use is in battle must be effective, but the handling of effective weapons depends upon people." If China could properly govern its people and effectively train its soldiers, then the nation can progress. However Wang T'ao's ideals were not shared by everyone. Many conservative reformers were content with the current Chinese system and felt change was unnecessary. Among one of those scholars was Chang Chih-tung, a leading figure during the end of the Manchus rule. Although Chang Chih-tung was a moderate and avoided radical measures, he was a firm supporter of neo-Confucianism ethics. He sought to preserve Confucian traditions but also believed western administration was as essential as western technology. On the surface, it seems that Wang T'ao and Chang Chih-tung each have radically different solutions for the incorporation of western influences on Chinese society, but if we look thoroughly into their works, we realize there are also many similar underlying principles between the two figures. In Exhortation to Learn by Chang Chih-tung, he emphasized the importance of maintaining the state, preserving the doctrine of Confucius, and protecting the Chinese race. Similar to the ideals of

Accutane essays

Accutane essays When talking about accutane, not many people are aware of what it is. Accutane is basically a Vitamin A derivative given as an oral medication for the treatment or significant cystic acne (Kunin 1). It was developed in 1982 and used to clear up severe acne. You may have some severe side effects while taking this medication. Many dermatologists give this prescription to patients who have tried prescription medicines, over the counter medicines, and face washes but all of them have failed. Some vitamin A preparations like Retin A can help keep glands clear to a point. More advanced cases require oral medications. They help control the bacteria but they have anti-inflammatory properties, which are really whats most important. A lot of people wonder how this medicine works. Nobody is 100% sure of how it stops acne, but it does. It does reduce the size of the sebaceous glands. Now there is some question as to whether sufferers of acne have particularly large sebaceous glands, or whether they are being shrunk smaller then they should. Being a Vitamin A compound, it promotes the regeneration of skin cells. Unfortunately this not only improves the standard of your skin, but also causes flakiness. It also has some anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits, that prevent skin infections and reduce swollen spots, said Kunin (1). Birth defects are the most serious consequence of taking Accutane. Accutane will only affect a developing fetus. It will not effect any reproductive organs. A lot of people worry about this and decide not to take it, but it doesn't effect having children in the future. You shouldn't get pregnant while on Accutane or 30 days after taking Accutane. It can cause head or heart problems in a developing fetus. The FDA and a respectable dermatologist will insist that any woman or teen capable of having children be on 2 methods of contraception, and have one ...

11 Rose Color Meanings to Help You Pick the Perfect Bouquet

Rose Color Meanings to Help You Pick the Perfect Bouquet SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips A red rose is a pretty universal symbol of love and passion. So universal, in fact, that the price of red roses can increase by 200% around Valentine’s Day in some regions!However, all colors of roses have their own unique symbolic meanings- not just red roses. The symbolic meanings of other rose colors just aren’t quite as well-known. In this article, we’ll briefly go over the concept of rose color symbolism. Then we’ll break down the meaning of different rose colors(including favorites like yellow, pink, and white roses) and provide appropriate occasions for each color. We’ll also discuss the symbolism of different numbers of roses and provide some insight into rose cost. All this will help you to choose the most appropriate roses for any given occasion! Rose Color Meanings: A Brief Overview While the concept of assigning symbolic meaning to flowers has existed since ancient times, the popularity of communicating through the â€Å"language of flowers† peaked in the Western world during the Victorian era. Both men and women consulted â€Å"flower dictionaries† to choose and interpret the appropriate flowers to send, wear, and display. Flowers were given meaning based on both their species and their color. So while the rose in general is a symbol of love, different rose colors provided different shades of meaning (or even, in some cases, a completely different meaning) to this base meaning of rose = love. The mania for flower dictionaries may have passed, but a fascination with flower symbolism- particularly with roses, one of the most popular flowers- has persisted. If you’d like to give a bouquet of roses that’s especially thoughtful and meaningful, consider the symbolism of the colors you select. Read on for a comprehensive guide to what different colored roses mean and what occasions they are most appropriate for. The Meaning of Rose Colors: 4Most Popular Colors While we will discuss all rose color meaningsin this article, we’ll start with the symbolism of the most popular rose colors: red, white, yellow, and pink. Red Rose Meaning Red is one of the most common and popular rose colors. The red rose is a symbol of beauty, passion, desire, and romantic love. The red rose was originally associated with Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. Myth holds that when her lover, Adonis, was wounded, she pricked her foot on the thorns of a white rose in her haste to run to him. Her blood stained the roses red, turning the red rose into a symbol of incredible passion and romantic devotion. Legend also has it that Cleopatra seduced Mark Antony in a room fully covered in red rose petals. A dozen red roses boldly declares, â€Å"I love you,† while a single red rose communicates devotion and loyalty. Beyond their more passionate connotation, red roses are often used outside of romantic contexts to convey congratulations or gratitude. Red Roses Occasions Red roses are very popular flowers for Valentine’s day. However, because of the increased demand, rose prices go up dramatically around this time, and you may be getting lower-quality roses.Additionally, they are somewhat of a Valentine’s day cliche, which may come across as fairly unoriginal. So unless you know the recipient has their heart set on red roses, consider another flower for this holiday and save red roses for another (romantic) time. For example, anniversaries or birthdays with a significant other. Red roses also often appear in bridal bouquets because of their connotation of a love that is both everlasting and passionate. Finally, you might give red roses for non-romantic reasons. They are popular flowers for giving to someone after a performance; you often see bouquets of red roses or single flowers thrown onstage after ballet or opera performances. So you might give red roses to someone who has just done a stage performance of some kind or completed a big accomplishment like a graduation or major work project. Red roses can also be deployed to thank someone who has done something meaningful for you. Context is everything- think about how your gesture of red roses will be interpreted under the circumstances! White Rose Meaning White roses have a variety of symbolic associations. In Greek myth, Aphrodite was born from the foam of the sea. Greek poet Anacreon wrote that the sea foam that dripped from her body after she emerged from the ocean turned into white roses.In the Christian tradition, the white rose is associated with the Virgin Mary. Perhaps because of its association with these two fairly different figures, white rose symbolism is somewhat broad.Possibly because of its connection to the Virgin Mary, it bears a meaning of innocence, chastity, and purity. It’s also associated with spirituality, reverence, and new beginnings. In Victorian tradition, the deeper the rose color, the deeper the passion- so a white rose was most appropriate for a young girl or woman who has not yet felt a deep and passionate love. Somewhat contradictorily, the white rose also symbolizes a soul-deep love and canrepresent marriage. White Roses Occasions Because of its associations with purity, spirituality, and new beginnings, the white rose is an appropriate funeral flower. However, it’s also a common wedding flower due to its association with marriage and deep love. Cream roses are considered particularly bridal. White roses are also appropriate for religious occasions like baptisms and confirmations. Yellow Rose Meaning The yellow rose has experienced a significant shift in meaning over time. In the Victorian era, the yellow rose signified jealousy and accused the recipient of infidelity. Not exactly a very happy message! However, in the present day,the yellow rose most commonly means friendship- and specifically platonic friendship. Sending yellow roses to someone you may have romantic interest in, then, may not be the best move as it could signal that you are only interested in friendship with that person. For someone you are friends with, the yellow rose sends a message of cheer, joy, caring, and platonic affection. Yellow Roses Occasions The yellow rose is an excellent congratulatory rose for a happy occasion. A new baby or an engagement are great reasons to send someone yellow roses. You might also send them to thank a friend for their support or help. Lastly, yellow roses are a good choice for someone who needs a pick-me-up- perhaps in a â€Å"Get Well Soon† bouquet. Pink Rose Meaning Pink roses have a pretty broad range of symbolic associations. In general, pink roses symbolize admiration, gentleness, dignity, elegance, innocence, and happiness. Different shades of pink can convey different shades of meaning.Paler pink roses signify grace and sweetness. Deeper pink roses convey gratitude. Pink Roses Occasions Pink roses are very versatile. They can convey either a romantic or platonic message. Pale pink roses are a good choice for the beginning of a romance, when red roses may come off somewhat strongly. You can also send pink roses to a friend to congratulate or cheer them. Deeper pink roses are especially well-suited as a thank you gift. Pink roses are also appropriate for a girl or young woman, especially to convey congratulations or to commemorate a milestone. Rose Color Meaning: 7 More Unusual Colors In this next section, we’ll go over the rose color meanings of some of the more unusual rose colors. Orange Rose Meaning Fiery orange roses send a strong message of fascination, passion, enthusiasm, attraction, and desire. Coral roses in particular signify desire. Orange Roses Occasions Orange roses convey a meaning that is primarily romantic in nature. Thus, they are best for romantic occasions. They can be a slightly unusual but appropriate choice for Valentine’s Day and anniversaries. They might also make a striking wedding flower in the right color scheme! Peach Rose Meaning Peach roses communicate sincerity and gratitude. They can also mark the closing of a deal or agreement. They have an alternative meaning of sympathy. Pale peach roses mean modesty. Peach Roses Occasions Peach roses are a very appropriate thank-you gift. Additionally, they are a good choice for a sympathy bouquet to someone who has just lost a loved one. With their meaning of modesty, pale peach roses can also make a very pretty component of a bouquet that communicates admiration- perhaps a bouquet of peach and pink roses together. This would also make a very pretty wedding flower combination and color palette. Burgundy Rose Meaning Burgundy roses have a very specific connotation of unconscious beauty. In the Victorian era, deeper rose colors signified deeper passion. Per this schema, burgundy roses signify a very deep passion, even beyond that of red roses. Burgundy Roses Occasions Burgundy roses are very romantic. They can make a striking choice for Valentine’s day or other romantic occasions and add depth to a bouquet with red and/or pink roses. They would also make a lush and beautiful wedding flower. Purple Rose Meaning Purple roses are very special and intriguing and have deep symbolic meaning. Purple roses symbolize enchantment and the mystical. Pale purple or lavender-colored roses send a message of â€Å"love at first sight.† Deeper purple roses convey majesty and royalty, adoration, and fascination. Purple Roses Occasions Purple roses are also very romantic and best for romantic occasions. Purple roses are an especially good choice for someone with a spiritual or mystical side. They also look beautiful in combination with red, pink, or burgundy roses. Green Rose Meaning Green roses symbolize peace, spiritual rejuvenation, calm, and fertility. It’s a soothing color that connotes close ties to the natural world. The pale green rose does occur in nature, although green roses that you buy from a florist may be dyed (especially if they are a bright St. Patrick’s-day green!) Green Roses Occasions Green roses are appropriate for any spiritual occasion, like a baptism or confirmation. As a symbol of peace, they also make an appropriate funeral flower. Because they are symbol of fertility, they would also be a good choice for new parents. Pale green and white roses together would make an especially striking and appropriate combination for such an event. Blue Rose Meaning True blue roses are not found in nature. Natural roses that are considered â€Å"blue† are actually a blue-toned purple. However, blue roses can also be obtained by dying white roses. Because they can’t be obtained naturally, blue roses symbolize the unattainable and the mysterious. Blue Roses Occasions Blue roses are not associated with many occasions, likely because they aren’t found in nature and must be artificially colors. However, with their enigmatic message,they could be used to send a message from a secret admirer. Black Rose Meaning Black roses are another color that is not found in nature. Natural roses that are called â€Å"black† are actually a very dark red or purple color. True black roses can only be obtained through dyeing. Black roses symbolize death, rebirth, and goodbye. Black Roses Meaning Black roses may be an appropriate funeral flower. However, they can come across as very gothic and morbid, so they may be somewhat of a risky choice unless you were close to the deceased and are confident they (and their surviving family members) would appreciate black roses. The Number of Roses - Meaning The number of roses gifted can also have symbolic meaning. However, the message is almost always some variant of â€Å"I love you.† Here’s a chart with the breakdown: Number of Roses Meaning One Devotion, love at first sight Two Mutual love Three â€Å"I love you† Six â€Å"I want to be yours,† infatuation Nine Eternal love Ten You are perfect Twelve (one dozen) Be mine Thirteen A secret admirer, or forever friendship Fifteen â€Å"I’m sorry,† â€Å"Please forgive me† Twenty Sincerity Twenty-one I’m committed to you Twenty-four (two dozen) â€Å"I’m yours,† â€Å"I’m thinking of you every hour of the day† Twenty-five Congratulations Thirty-six (three dozen) Remembering romantic moments Forty Genuine love Fifty Unconditional love 100 Complete devotion 108 Will you marry me? 365 I love you every day (of the year) 999 Eternal and infinite love (and an infinite bank account, probably!) Thus, almost all numbers of roses mean some version of â€Å"I love you,† â€Å"I’m devoted to you,† etc. Number, then, is overall less significant than color. Rose Color and Cost While color can (and does) play into the price of roses, it’s far from the most important factor. Rose cost is also affected by quality of the rose, time of year, and the labor involved in crafting the bouquet. Only after all this has been accounted for does color really come into play. Rose Quality It goes without saying that the higher the rose is in quality, the more expensive it will be per stem. Long-stemmed roses with hearty, full blooms cost more than their shorter-stemmed, less lush counterparts. The type of rose is another factor here. For example, garden roses, which are quite popular for weddings, tend to be far more expensive than the more typical rose varieties you would find in the grocery store. Time of Year Time of year plays into the level of demand for roses, which plays into price. Roses are most expensive around Valentine’s day, Mother’s day, and June due to increased demand. June is a high-demand time because many weddings take place in June, and roses are a popular wedding flower. Graduations could also contribute to increased demand at this time. Labor The amount of labor that goes into maintaining and arranging your roses is also reflected in the price. Bulk retailers who can’t give you much personalization and may not take as much care with the transport and storage of their blooms won’t charge as much for a dozen roses! By contrast, a specialty florist that does careful custom arrangements will charge you more. Rose Color Color comes into play primarily because it’s harder to find cheap roses in unusual colors. Red, white, and pink roses will almost always be easy to find at from bulk retailers like Costco or even at grocery stores for a fairly cheap price. But because there’s less demand for purple or peach roses, you are more likely to have to go through a florist, which will mean you’ll almost certainly need to pay more. Any artificially colored roses (so, a bright blue or green) will also cost more, because of the labor associated with coloring the roses. Rose Symbolism: Final Takeaways Here are some key takeaways for each of the rose colors: Red: Passion, love, desire. For romantic occasions. White: Innocence, purity, spirituality, new beginnings. Best for spiritual events, weddings, and funerals. Yellow: Platonic friendship. To cheer or congratulate a close friend. Pink: Pink roses primarily mean admiration, elegance, innocence, and gratitude. Very versatile; can be used for almost any occasion where flowers are appropriate. Orange: Desire, fascination, passion. For romantic occasions. Peach: Sincerity, gratitude, sympathy. Send as a thank-you or to someone in mourning. Burgundy: Unconscious beauty. For romantic occasions. Purple: enchantment, love at first sight (lilac), royalty and admiration (deeper purple). For romantic occasions. Blue (not found in nature): The unattainable and mysterious. Perhaps for a secret admirer. Black (not found in nature): Death and rebirth. Perhaps for a funeral. Almost every rose number sends some message of love and devotion, so there is a lot more variation and significance in rose colorsymbolism. Rose cost is primarily driven by the quality of the roses, the time of year, and the labor involved in the arrangement. However, you will have a harder time finding cheaper arrangements for less common rose colors like purple, orange, and green. Additionally, any artificially colored roses will cost you more.

Marketing Strategies on Innocent Smoothies Article

Marketing Strategies on Innocent Smoothies - Article Example The formula and process used in making the product made the company instantly gain its own identity from other similar products. As a result of the company’s unique marketing strategy, the London-based drinks company was able to double its profit annually. (BBC News, 2007) For the purpose of this study, the researcher will concentrate on examining the marketing techniques used by the company upon positioning its product line in the market. To enable the researcher to understand how the company was able to increase the expected company’s profit up to  £100 million in 2007 (Innocent, 2008b), the researcher will analyze Innocent’s market segmentation strategy by analyzing the personal comments made by the key stakeholders, the customers, suppliers and investors in terms of being able to establish a strong brand name in the marketplace within a short span of nine (9) years. Innocent Drinks has been producing Innocent smoothies made from the fine recipe for all ages. Among the common smoothie flavours offered by Innocent Drinks include: the combination of: (1) cranberries & raspberries; (2) strawberries & bananas; (3) blackberries, raspberries & boysenberries; (4) oranges, bananas & pineapples; (5) mangoes & passion fruit; and (6) pineapples, bananas & coconuts. (Innocent, 2008c) In order to maintain the product-life-cycle of Innocent smoothies, the company continuously produce different new recipes to be sold to the public under ‘Our Smoothie of the Month’ or ‘Seasonal Smoothie’. (Innocent, 2008c, 2008 f) In line with this matter, Innocent Drinks started by selling only 3 different receivers in 1999 and ended up with 30 different recipes in 2007. (Innocent, 2008b) Basically, it is necessary for Innocent Drinks to introduce new flavors regularly in order to maintain and capture a bigger share in the local market even before the company reaches the maturity stage.

Leadership and clinical governance in nursing Essay

Leadership and clinical governance in nursing - Essay Example tools) as well as methods (Confusion Assessment Method, CAM) in the discussion to reflect how the inception of Standard Nine has improved the quality of health care delivery (Gastmans, 2013). Moreover, the paper applies such policies as the NSW Policy Directive Falls- Prevention and Harm from Falls amongst Older People 2011-2015 as in the discussion. The practitioner was the Nurse in Charge (NIC) of the General Ward in the Balliina District Hospital. The nurse was to oversee such obligations as transitional care, emergency care, general ward and rehabilitation. The nurse conducted significantly below the reasonable standard as outlined in Standard 9 culminating to demise of a patient (Mrs. Webb). Subsequently, HCCC consulted with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of New South Wales. The HCCC applied section 39(2) and 90(B) of the Health Care Complaints Act 1993 and section 145A of the National Laws to file the case to the Committee anchored on section 150D(4) of the National Law (Wong, Yee and Turner 2008). The Nurse was found to have unsatisfactory conduct that was not commensurate to the equivalent knowledge and training she had. The Committee thus reprimanded the Nurse and ordered a number of conditions on the practitioner registration. For example, she had 24 months to successfully complete a post graduate certificate in acute care nursing incorporating leadership module. The Nurse was further prohibited from engaging in any role and functions of a Nurse in Charge of a ward or Hospital (Hatten-Masterton & Griffiths 2009). The Nurse was found to have violated the Standard 9 and many other guidelines including NSW Health Rural Adult Emergency Clinical Guidelines Third Edition GL. In addition, the Committee noted that Practitioner did not showcase the expected levels of assessment required to have saved the practitioner. Further, the practitioner failed to contact the doctor about the unseen patient fall and deterioration conditions (Wong, Yee, Turner

Palestine and Peace Essay Example for Free

Palestine and Peace Essay The peace situation in the Middle East has been very contentious. Palestine, particularly, has been very violent. The nation of Israel has been in constant fight over the Palestinian territory. Up to a certain degree, even civilians have been affected; through the wars and the conflicts going on in different areas in Israel and the Palestinian region. Although Israel found itself against most of the Arab nations in the world, it was able to survive the difficulties of the region through the help of its allies, particularly, the United States of America (Dershowitz, 2004). Ironically, through the involvement of the US with the affairs of Israel in the Middle East, it earned the ire of a number of Arab countries (Wasserstein, 2003). Israel and Palestine: A Profile of a Conflict The US has been involved extensively in several efforts in brokering peace between the nation of Israel and Palestine. In some ways, it has been successful but in others, the US needed to provide military support to Israel to help it with its situation. There has been several contentions though in trying to understand the relationship of the United States and Israel. As former president of the United States, Jimmy Carter (2006) was also involved in the relationship of his country with Israel. He has written a monumental book Palestine Peace No Apartheid, which has been considered as a bookseller all over the world. Carter’s primary reason for writing the book is the presentation of facts and events regarding the peace situation in the Middle East, particularly in Israel and Palestine. In doing so, his intention is to revive the peace talks that have stopped for more than six years when he wrote the book in 2006. He also wishes to deal with the two major obstacles to a long-term peace in the Palestine region. One is the way in which Israel took control of the land and continues to persecute the Palestinians residing in the area. On the other hand, Palestine also promotes and indirectly honors the suicide bombers sowing discord and violence even among civilians in the area. These two main beliefs that the opposite side holds continue to aggravate the situation and prevent them from achieving a suitable compromise for the sake of peace in the region. Carter presented the situation of Israel and Palestine through a chronological presentation of his presidency as it unfolded. His approach also went beyond that of his presidency. He also outlined the legacy of the past US president that he succeeded. With such an approach, he set the state of events when he entered the political arena that the United States was in. After outlining his own presidency, he also traced the peace-making activities engaged into by the administration of those who succeeded him such as George Bush, Bill Clinton, and the current administration of George W. Bush. He presented his understanding of the facts in the seventeen chapters of his book (Carter, 2006, p. 37). He also explored several themes and political issues in the relationship of Israel and Palestine and the important issues that tend to undermine the peace process in the region. In addition, he also explores the role of the United States in the process. Jimmy Carter also called for the cessation of violence and terrorism on the part of both Israel and Palestine. The civilian death toll has reached horrifying heights even though they are supposed to be part of the armed combat that the two sides of the conflict are engaged in. Carter also claimed that Israel has occupied Palestine although there have already been a lot of people residing in the area. The state of Israel has seized different areas of significance and has affected the civilian population of both sides. This has gone on for more almost forty years by the time that Carter wrote the book. In addition to this, there are artificial divisions imposed upon the Israelis and Palestinians. Inclined towards the Side of Palestine Carter’s point of view, however, tends to be inclined to the cause of the Palestinians. He cites the different oppression that Palestinians are undergoing, which includes being prohibited from the places of worship and the difficulties of Arabs to pass through the borders of Israel. More than that, the West Bank houses a wall that separates Israelis and Palestinians. A number of conflicts have arisen along this wall and thousands of civilians have lost their lives due to violence occurring near this wall. In addition to West Bank, Israeli forces have also taken over Gaza and deprived the Palestinians the use of their own land according to Carter. Although there have been important strides made in the realm of promoting democracy in Palestine, Israel and the United States have declared economic restrictions against Palestine because of the victory of Hamas in the past elections. Because of this, the people of Palestine are experiencing shortage of their needs in every area of life. More than that, they also do not have access to the territories of Palestine that Israel has already occupied. According to Carter, the efforts of Mahmoud Abbas, who is the leader of the Palestinian Liberation Organization, to talk with Israel to negotiate peace have been rebuffed. As such, the violence and conflict continues to this day. Carter’s analysis of events point out to the shortcomings of Israel to follow up on its commitments to uphold its end of the bargain. What is needed is a firm commitment on the part of Israel to give back the territories of Palestine that it has occupied. All of the international and regional peace accords arrived at by the UN Resolutions, the Camp David Accords, which was negotiated in 1978, the Agreement in Oslo in 1993, and the different policies of US regarding peace in the Middle East are all based around the premise that Israel should give lands back to the Palestinians. Carter also pointed out the necessity for Palestine to recognize the legal stay of Israel within the borders of Palestine. This assertion of Carter, however, is highly controversial one as it proposes a very dramatic resolution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine. Jimmy Carter and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict The proposals made by Jimmy Carter in his book are bold and courageous. In a way, his book is also reminiscent of his own term as US President in which he was able to broker a peace agreement between Israel and Egypt. This was instrumental in bringing a measure of peace to the Middle East region. After leaving the presidency, he has remained aware of the developments of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the Middle East. He has even made trips to Palestine in order to grace some events and conduct talks and research in the region. Everyone longs for peace in the Middle East. The wars fought in the region have been very frequent. As such, the lives of people are constantly disrupted because of the escalation and eruption of violence. Carter sees the peace process in the Middle East as one which gives dignity to Palestine and justice in regards to its claims over the lands that it occupies and those that are now being occupied by Israel. In his conclusion, the author outlined a three-step approach to end the violence and conflict in the area. The first one is that Israel’s security should not be undermined in any way. In addition to that, the legal boundaries of Israel should be established. But before that can be done, the major internal debates occurring in different segments in Israel should be resolved. Lastly, the borders of any nation, whether they be in the Middle East or elsewhere should be respected and upheld. As a consequence, this means that Israel might have to retreat and surrender back the lands that it has claimed in the past years. Conclusion Jimmy Carter’s book is a courageous book and attempts to present the facts to the Americans, who tend to have conflicting viewpoints regarding the situation in the Middle East. His use of the term â€Å"Apartheid† in the subtitle of the book, however, appears to be uncalled for and conjures images of violence based on the discrimination of race in societies such as South Africa. The use of this term seems to be inappropriate for his subject matter. In a society that is quite afraid to truly deal with the situation, Carter’s voice jolts people in their seats and calls on the importance of working for peace in the Middle East, particularly, for Israel and Palestine. This is a scathing rebuke of the lack of peace talks spearheaded by the current administration of the United States. In addition to this, Jimmy Carter appears to cast his administration in a positive light in regards to the topic of peace-making in the Middle East and berates the present administration for its lack of efforts in resolving the conflict in the region. The conflict between Israel and Palestine has been going on for several decades now. There are a number of competing views and perspectives regarding the involvement of the United States in this conflict. Yet, Carter’s voice is another voice shouting for the necessity of working for peace. He even suggests several paths that can be followed. However, it remains to be seen whether his approach works or whether he is only adding to the cacophony of confusing sounds. Reference Carter, J. (2006). Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid. New York: Simon and Schuster Dershowitz, A. (2004). The Case for Israel. New York: John Wiley Sons. Wasserstein, B. (2003). Israelis and Palestinians. Yale University Press.

understanding digital biology :: essays research papers

UNDERSTANDING DIGITAL BIOLOGY Explaining digital biology is impossible without explaining its principle. The purpose of this text is not to report experimental results. Rather, it tries to explain to laymen, in the simplest terms, this radically new approach to biology. We hope it will be useful to all, scientists or not, who find it hard to "make the leap". Indeed, is it possible to believe that the specific activity of biologically-active molecules (e.g. histamine, caffeine, nicotine, adrenalin), not to mention the immunological signature of a virus or bacterium can be recorded and digitized using a computer sound card, just like an ordinary sound? Imagine the perplexity of Archimedes confronted with a telephone, and being told that by using it he could be heard on the other side of the world, were we not to explain the nature of sound waves or their translation into electromagnetism. Life depends on signals exchanged among molecules. For example, when you get angry, adrenalin "tells" its receptor, and it alone (as a faithful molecule, it talks to no other) to make your heart beat faster, to contract superficial blood vessels, etc.. In biology, the words "molecular signal" are used very often. Yet, if you ask even the most eminent biologists what the physical nature of this signal is, they seem not even to understand the question, and stare at you wide-eyed. In fact, they've cooked up a rigorously Cartesian physics all their own, as far removed as possible from the realities of contemporary physics, according to which simple contact (Descarte's laws of impact, quickly disproved by Huygens) between two coalescent structures creates energy, thus constituting an exchange of information. For many years, I believed and recited this catechism without realizing its absurdity, just as mankind did not realize the absurdity of the belief that the sun cir cles the earth. The truth, based on facts, is very simple. It does not require any "collapse of the physical or chemical worlds." That molecules vibrate, we have known for decades. Every atom of every molecule and every intermolecular bond-the bridge that links the atoms-emits a group of specific frequencies. Specific frequencies of simple or complex molecules are detected at distances of billions of light-years, thanks to radio-telescopes. Biophysicists describe these frequencies as an essential physical characteristic of matter, but biologists do not consider that electromagnetic waves can play a role in molecular functions themselves. We cannot find the words "frequency"

Correlation Between Student S Grades and-Social Networks Essay

Abstract Social networking sites (SNS) have created a new social dimension where individuals can develop increased levels of their social awareness and getting information in many more aspects of everyday lives. SNS help people to enhance their knowledge, which is very beneficial especially for students. However, some argue the use of SNS also entails negative effects that overrule the gains. This may be reflected on students’ grades. The main objective of this research is to analyse the relationship between student’s academic performance and use of SNS. The research was conducted through the use of online questionnaires. Excel and SPSS software were used to analyse the data collected. Findings from this study showed that there is a weak, negative relationship between these two variables. Chapter 1: Introduction There is no doubt that the global revolution of SNS has brought great changes to many aspects of everyday life. People use them to keep in touch with distant friends and relatives or to make new social and professional acquaintances. Whatever the reason behind this increased use, SNS have for many become a way of life. Especially for young people, SNS are the most innovative tools that enable them not only to contact other individuals, but most importantly to create a positive ‘self-image’ (Boyd & Ellison, 2007). At the same time, however, there is an increasing concern about the threats arising from the excessive use of SNS. Although there is prior research on how SNS affect people’s relationships, the literature on how they affect students’ academic performance is still in its infancy. The main objective of this research is to fill this gap in literature and examine how the use of SNS affects academic performance. Paper Structure This paper commences with a short review of prior literature on the topic where some information about the various SNS will be given. It will then continue to Chapter 3 where the methodology followed to approach the objective and gather the necessary data will be explained. Chapter 4 follows, where the collected data will be analysed using statistical analysis tests and findings will be reported. The paper will then finalise with some conclusions and recommendations given in Chapter 5. Chapter 2: Literature Review The section of literature review has a purpose to put this study into context with previous research on SNS providing some examples of such sites and students use of SNS. Finally, prior research on the relationship of SNS and academic performance will be examined. Definition and Examples of SNS Social networking sites have been defined as â€Å"an online community of Internet users who want to communicate with other users about areas of mutual interest† (William, 2009). Globally there are many SNS, but the most popular ones are the Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and LinkedIn. Facebook is the most widely used SNS with currently more than 1.2 billion users. It was created in 2004 by Mark Zuckerberg, with the initial intention for students in a certain college to keep in touch with each other. According to recent statistics, the average time a user spends on Facebook per month is 15 hours and 33 minutes. Twitter is a real-time communication platform where users are able to interact and build relationships with their network of contacts by posting and receiving messages. It started in 2006 as an experiment of short online announcements and it now has more than 555 million users. Google+ is a social networking platform created by the search engine giant, Google, in an attempt to outperform Facebook. It was launched in 2011 and it currently has around 500 million users. Google+ enables targeted sharing of information within certain subgroups of users’ contacts and the viewing, managing and editing of multimedia. LinkedIn is the professional social network launched in 2003. People join this network mainly to make professional connections and use them to build a career. Companies that are in search of qualified employees and job-hunters also use LinkedIn. The profile created by users is like a resume but with the option to include extensive information in each field. Use of SNS Statistics reveal that 98% of people aged between 18-24 are using some form of SNS. Apart from socialising and staying in touch with friends, people in those ages use SNS for a variety of other reasons. As in the age of 18 most people are going to be in higher education, there is evidence showing that students use those sites to research colleges and assist their decision on where to enrol (Tisley, 2012). They also use them during their university life to enable their communication with other students or even staff. According to Oradini and Saunders (2007), students can use SNS to initiate a discussion and decide what information they would like to share and with whom. Many universities have recently recognised this increased use of SNS and their ability to act as a platform of online learning and have therefore taken steps to incorporate them into their strategy. SNS and Academic Performance The term academic performance is used to measure the ‘success’ of a student in terms of their achievements and their ability to meet certain standards defined by the institution they are attending. Reference? It can be assumed that by having access to the latest information available, either through visiting companies’ and broadcasting profiles or through the exchange of useful information, students increase their awareness towards a better achievement of results. However, there is a contradiction of views relating to the use of SNS and their effect on students’ grades. While some studies show that there is no link between SNS and academic performance (Truong, 2010) others provide evidence that there is an adverse effect of SNS on students’ grades mainly due to the fact that too much time is spent on them, leaving limited time for studying. Chapter 3: Research Methodology In this chapter, a methodology for collecting the necessary information for the research will be defined. This will include a description of the method for collecting information and an explanation of why the methods chosen were the most suitable, providing reliability to the report. Research Approach Selecting the right research approach is fundamental in order to answer the questions that were presented successfully. In this study, the researchers carried out scientific research and aimed to develop a hypothesis, which was then tested and examined to establish a theory. Therefore, a deductive research approach was considered to be most suitable (Hussey and Hussey, 1997). According to Robson (2002), the researchers had to deduct hypotheses from theory and then express them in operational terms, proposing a relationship between two variables. The objectives this research had led to the following hypothesis: Hypothesis: There is a relationship between the use of SNS and students’ academic performance. Therefore the Null Hypothesis is: There is no relationship between the use of SNS and students’ academic performance. This hypothesis was chosen as prior literature focused exclusively on the effect of the use of Facebook on academic performance and not the use of SNS in general. Time horizon This research is cross-sectional study, as the data collection methods were designed to â€Å"gather data at a particular point in time with the intention of describing the nature of existing conditions† (Cohen, Manion and Morrison, 1994). This approach was a suitable method to use given the limited time that was available to undertake the research. Data collection Methods The research was conducted through the use of online questionnaires. They were distributed to students via email from December 2012 to January 2013, a research period that is â€Å"distinct and discrete phase of the investigation† (Johnson, 2004). Respondents were informed that all material they provided would remain confidential while anonymity was promised. A briefing statement (See Appendix I) informed participants as to the purpose of the research and the extent of confidentiality. The full list of questions can be found in Appendix II. Data analysis methods Quantitative data was analysed using the SPSS analysis software, where correlation was used to examine the existence of a relationship between the variables and regression analysis to assess the strength of those relationships. In order to carry out regression statistics, it was essential to distinguish the factors between the dependent variable (y) and the independent variables (x). Since the purpose of this analysis was to discover the extent to which academic performance is dependent on changes in the variables investigated, academic performance was identified as the dependent variable while hours spent on homework, social networking sites, playing games and surfing on the internet were defined as the independent variables. It should be noted here that academic performance is defined using the latest available grades of the participants. This led to the following model being developed: Academic Performance = b0 + b1Hours spent studying + b2Hours spent on social networks +b3Hours spent on other activities The data was analysed by bivariate correlation and linear regression. Once this technique was completed, each variable was analysed explicitly in order to assess individual relationships and test the hypothesis by stressing the most noteworthy relationship between independent and dependent variable. Validity & Reliability In order for the research to be useful, actions had to be taken to safeguard the validity and reliability of results. According to Joppe (2000), the extent to which results are reliable depends on how consistent they are over time and whether identical results can be acquired if the investigation is repeated. Validity is concerned with whether the findings are what they appear to be and whether a relationship between two variables is merely a coincidence. There are many threats to reliability and validity. The subject error and participant bias are threats to reliability (Saunders et al., 2009) that can be tackled by carefully selecting the right research population. Mortality is a threat to validity, since it would result to a very small sample size that would be unable to determine whether relationships between variables were simply casual. In enhancing the validity and reliability, the research was conducted at the University of Southampton and the questionnaires were handed both to undergraduate and postgraduate students in various programs. Also, a pilot questionnaire was conducted with 10 students to complete that provided feedback. Chapter 4: Results & Analysis The purpose of this section is to present the findings of this study, which will be critically evaluated to identify their reliability. Implications will be acknowledged. Descriptive Statistics In total 303 responses were collected by students of the University of Southampton. Out of the total number of participants, 8 abandoned the survey without saving it so only 275 responses were used. The demographics of the sample are summarized in the figures below. The sample consisted of 149 males and 126 females (See Figure 1) and most participants (n= 193) aged between 21-24 (See Figure 2). Figure [ 1 ] – Participants’ Gender Figure [ 2 ] – Participants Age Out of the total sample, only 5 participants were not part of a SNS where as the rest 270 participants had a profile on either one or multiple SNS. Out of those who were part of an SNS, the majority of participants (n= 273) had a profile on Facebook (See Figure 3). Also, most of the participants (n=234) have been using SNS for more than 3 years (See Figure 4). Figure 3 – Number of Participants; profiles on SNS Figure 4 – Time period participants use SNS When asked about the reasons participants use SNS, many corresponded to keep in touch with their family and friends (n=108) whereas a significant amount of them (n=70) replied to keep updated on current affairs (See Figure 5). Figure 5 – Reasons for using SNS In relation to the academic performance of participants, most of them (n=76) study between 1-4 hours (See Figure 6) with 50 of them managing to get grades between 70-100 (See Figure 7). The average grade the participants received is 68. Figure 6 – Participants’ Time allocation on an Average Day Figure 7 – Participants’ Grades Data Analysis It is now necessary to relate these findings back to the initial hypothesis. We use correlation analysis in order to examine the relationship between two variables. Pearson’s r statistic is the one, which will determine if there is any relationship between our variables. As it can be seen from the table above, the Pearson’s r for the correlation between the ‘Hours spent on doing homework’ and the ‘Hours spent using SNS’ is -0.117, which is relatively close to 0. This means that there is a negative relationship between those variables, indicated by the negative sign, and as the one variable increases in value, the second variable decreases in value. However, since this valued is very close to 0, this is a week relationship and it is unlikely that changes in one variable are correlated with changes in the other. Observing the Sig. (2-tailed) value we can determine the significance of the relationship. If that value is less or equal to 0.05, we can conclude that there is statistically significant correlation between the hours spent on homework and the social network use. Here the value (0.052) is extremely close to the benchmark so the relationship is statistically significant.

Water Conservation

Hovhannes Marukyan Extra Credit MGT 462/November 16, 2009 Water Conservation I have attended the presentation about water conservation techniques that each of us can use in our everyday life to ensure the sustainable development of resources and especially water. The presenter on the water conservation was a man who is in charge of the water preservation in Santa Monica. The presentation was very interesting and had great deal of information about proven water conservation tactics. The topics covered included everything pertaining to consumer water usage and misusage. The topics included varied from water content in the soil to less water consuming showerheads to newer ways of watering the lawn. In order to understand the in-home usage one must first understand the nature of water usage in the global scale. He pointed out that most of the time societies use more water than needed. Some examples of places where people overuse water are in resorts, hydraulic dams, outdoor pools, basking in the showers, overflowing tubs, and so on. What is interesting is that in order for water to get to us individually it needs to use energy to generate enough pressure, and if we use less water, hence we use less energy. Hydralic dams use the most amount of water, and if we consume less energy we will use less water. Drying and cooling take the most amount of energy. His next topic in the presentation was about understood the Hydrologic cycle. The hydrologic cycle is when water on earth becomes dry enough and goes into the air as steam, than under right conditions when it’s high enough in the atmosphere and it meets a with the cool air the steam becomes liquid and falls down as rain. We dry up the air, from freeways, residential surfaces, and commercial surfaces, and if the air is not cold enough than the water will rarely liquefy. Now in order to battle this situation he presented with three possible solutions. First by cutting down on driving, with correlation of roof gardening we will to keep the air cool. Secondly we will save water by changing habits and fixtures, conserving water and energy. Third way is by reusing the water instead of throwing it away, this could be done by installing grey water systems. It is when the dirty water is recycled instead of going to the ocean. Next step in the presentation was about how we as individuals can do to conserve water. He broke down water conservation into two parts, the indoor and the outdoor. What we can do indoors is to do the simple things, like not letting the water on when brushing our teeth, not taking extensive showers, not leaving the water on for hours and forgetting about it. Another easy way to use less water is putting a half full bottle of water in the back of the toilet to deter it from using a lot of water. This is especially a good idea for old toilets models which in general use more water than needed. The best amount of water per flush is 1. 5 GMP; the transition is slow, but persistent. He also mentioned other ways of water conserving that included buying a water conserving showerhead, using toilets with dual flush systems, for hard and soft waste. And in general looking at everything inside the house that uses water and trying to see if one can reduce its water consumption. An example would be to buy a more water efficient dish washer, and a washing machine. However he talked more extensively about the outdoor techniques of water conservation. He said that about half of the water used in homes is consumed outdoors. He also stated that about 20% of energy in California is spent of the transportation of water. Another very interesting aspect about water consumption that he spoke of was the usage of plants in the landscaping of houses can greatly reduce the amount of energy that is required to cool them. He also mentioned the fact that people sometimes make a mistake of watering their plants more when there is a problem. According to the speaker there could be many reasons that a plant is unhealthy such as bad soil, positioning, and bugs. Since watering plants and the lawn is such a huge consumer of water, he suggested inspecting plants regularly, finding out what kind of soil is required for a great plant, positioning the plants to face the sun, hence reduce the amount of sunshine on the house, and saving energy. Also watering the lawn differently could help reduce water consumption. He spoke about drip irrigation, which is a very smart way of irrigating. It does not irrigate the whole lawn but the important parts of it where the plants are located. This helps use less water, waters only the plants exclusively, and is a great way battles weeds which thrive on water and take a lot of money to kill. Other ways of making sure that we use less water is using spray heads that use less water. Because soil can only absorb so much water at a ime it is important to making sure that the sprinkles don’t disperse water faster than the soil can absorb it. Adjusting the sprinkle time to daylight saving can meet this issue. The last way to save water that the presenter mentioned was using what is called permeable pavement. This pavement type uses space in between pavement and fills it with another material such as sand to allow in instead of allowing it to run off. Having some water in the soil is be neficial. With all the manmade building the soil underneath does not get enough water to stay in the same shape. Water Conservation Hovhannes Marukyan Extra Credit MGT 462/November 16, 2009 Water Conservation I have attended the presentation about water conservation techniques that each of us can use in our everyday life to ensure the sustainable development of resources and especially water. The presenter on the water conservation was a man who is in charge of the water preservation in Santa Monica. The presentation was very interesting and had great deal of information about proven water conservation tactics. The topics covered included everything pertaining to consumer water usage and misusage. The topics included varied from water content in the soil to less water consuming showerheads to newer ways of watering the lawn. In order to understand the in-home usage one must first understand the nature of water usage in the global scale. He pointed out that most of the time societies use more water than needed. Some examples of places where people overuse water are in resorts, hydraulic dams, outdoor pools, basking in the showers, overflowing tubs, and so on. What is interesting is that in order for water to get to us individually it needs to use energy to generate enough pressure, and if we use less water, hence we use less energy. Hydralic dams use the most amount of water, and if we consume less energy we will use less water. Drying and cooling take the most amount of energy. His next topic in the presentation was about understood the Hydrologic cycle. The hydrologic cycle is when water on earth becomes dry enough and goes into the air as steam, than under right conditions when it’s high enough in the atmosphere and it meets a with the cool air the steam becomes liquid and falls down as rain. We dry up the air, from freeways, residential surfaces, and commercial surfaces, and if the air is not cold enough than the water will rarely liquefy. Now in order to battle this situation he presented with three possible solutions. First by cutting down on driving, with correlation of roof gardening we will to keep the air cool. Secondly we will save water by changing habits and fixtures, conserving water and energy. Third way is by reusing the water instead of throwing it away, this could be done by installing grey water systems. It is when the dirty water is recycled instead of going to the ocean. Next step in the presentation was about how we as individuals can do to conserve water. He broke down water conservation into two parts, the indoor and the outdoor. What we can do indoors is to do the simple things, like not letting the water on when brushing our teeth, not taking extensive showers, not leaving the water on for hours and forgetting about it. Another easy way to use less water is putting a half full bottle of water in the back of the toilet to deter it from using a lot of water. This is especially a good idea for old toilets models which in general use more water than needed. The best amount of water per flush is 1. 5 GMP; the transition is slow, but persistent. He also mentioned other ways of water conserving that included buying a water conserving showerhead, using toilets with dual flush systems, for hard and soft waste. And in general looking at everything inside the house that uses water and trying to see if one can reduce its water consumption. An example would be to buy a more water efficient dish washer, and a washing machine. However he talked more extensively about the outdoor techniques of water conservation. He said that about half of the water used in homes is consumed outdoors. He also stated that about 20% of energy in California is spent of the transportation of water. Another very interesting aspect about water consumption that he spoke of was the usage of plants in the landscaping of houses can greatly reduce the amount of energy that is required to cool them. He also mentioned the fact that people sometimes make a mistake of watering their plants more when there is a problem. According to the speaker there could be many reasons that a plant is unhealthy such as bad soil, positioning, and bugs. Since watering plants and the lawn is such a huge consumer of water, he suggested inspecting plants regularly, finding out what kind of soil is required for a great plant, positioning the plants to face the sun, hence reduce the amount of sunshine on the house, and saving energy. Also watering the lawn differently could help reduce water consumption. He spoke about drip irrigation, which is a very smart way of irrigating. It does not irrigate the whole lawn but the important parts of it where the plants are located. This helps use less water, waters only the plants exclusively, and is a great way battles weeds which thrive on water and take a lot of money to kill. Other ways of making sure that we use less water is using spray heads that use less water. Because soil can only absorb so much water at a ime it is important to making sure that the sprinkles don’t disperse water faster than the soil can absorb it. Adjusting the sprinkle time to daylight saving can meet this issue. The last way to save water that the presenter mentioned was using what is called permeable pavement. This pavement type uses space in between pavement and fills it with another material such as sand to allow in instead of allowing it to run off. Having some water in the soil is be neficial. With all the manmade building the soil underneath does not get enough water to stay in the same shape.

Managerial and Personal Effectiveness in Human Resources Management The WritePass Journal

Managerial and Personal Effectiveness in Human Resources Management Introduction Managerial and Personal Effectiveness in Human Resources Management ]. Douglas McGregor, J. C.-G., 2006. The Human Side Of Enterprise. McGraw-Hill Professional. Herzberg, F., 1987. One More Time: How Do You Motivate Employees? HBR, September. Katz, R., 1974. Skills of an Effective Administrator. Havard Business Review. Lindner, J. R., n.d. Understanding Employee Motivation. Journal Editorial Office. Malik, F., 2010. Productions and Operations Management. 1.1 ed. s.l.:s.n. Pat hargreaves, P. J., 2000. The human resource development handbook.Kogan Page Publishers. Schein, E. H., 1978. Career dynamics: matching individual and organizational needs. Addison-Wesley Pub. Co. Srivastava, M. Sinha, A. K., 2004. Individual Characteristic for Managerial Effectiveness in a Competitive Environment: An Exploration. Conference on Global Competition Competitiveness of Indian Corporate, pp. 119-131. Sutton, R. I. Ford, L. H., 1982. Problem-Solving Adequacy in Hospital Subunits. Human Relations, Volume 35, pp. 675-701. [1] http://books.google.com.pk/books/about/Career_dynamics.html?id=UyqB19IEM5gCredir_esc=y [2] joe.org/joe/1998june/rb3.php [3] http://books.google.com.pk/books/about/The_human_side_of_enterprise.html?id=0Td-U8yTjVECredir_esc=y [4] http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1744-6570.1987.tb00605.x/pdf

What To Do If You Encounter Killer Bees

What To Do If You Encounter Killer Bees Even if you live in an area with African honeybees – better known as killer bees – the chances of your getting stung are rare. Killer bees dont look for victims to sting, and swarms of killer bees arent hiding in the trees just waiting for you to wander by so they can attack. Killer bees sting to defend their nests​ and do so aggressively. If you encounter aggressive bees around a nest or swarm, you are at risk for being stung. Heres what to do if you encounter killer bees: RUN! Seriously, run away from the nest or bees as quickly as you can. Bees use an alarm pheromone to alert other hive members of a threat, so the longer you hang around, the more bees will arrive, ready to sting you.If you have a jacket or anything else with you, use it to cover your head. Protect your eyes and face if at all possible. Of course, dont obstruct your vision if you are running.Get indoors as quickly as possible. If you arent near a building, get inside the nearest car or shed. Close the doors and windows to keep the bees from following you.If no shelter is available, keep running. African honey bees can follow you for as far as a quarter of a mile. If you run far enough, you should be able to lose them.Whatever you do, dont stay still if the bees are stinging you. These arent grizzly bears; they will not stop if you play dead.Dont swat at the bees or wave your arms to fend them off. That will only confirm that you are indeed a threat. Youre likely to be stung even more. Dont jump into a pool or other body of water to avoid the bees. They can and will wait for you to surface, and will sting you as soon as you do. You cant hold your breath long enough to wait them out, trust me.If someone else is being stung by killer bees and cannot run away, cover them with anything you can find. Do what you can to quickly cover any exposed skin or susceptible areas of their body, and then run for help as fast as you can. Once you are in a safe place, use a blunt object to scrape any stingers out of your skin. When an African honey bee stings, the stinger is pulled from its abdomen along with the venom sac, which can keep pumping venom into your body. The sooner you remove the stingers, the less venom will enter your system. If you were stung just once or a few times, treat the stings as you would regular bee stings and carefully monitor yourself for any unusual reactions. Wash the sting sites with soap and water to avoid infections. Use ice packs to reduce swelling and pain. Of course, if you are allergic to bee venom, seek medical attention immediately. If you suffered multiple stings, seek medical attention immediately. Sources: Africanized Honey Bees, San Diego Natural History Museum, accessed March 19, 2010Africanized Honey Bees, Ohio State University Extension, accessed March 19, 2010

Paper 5 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Paper 5 - Essay Example us that his â€Å"home is beyond the mountains† (144) but he is not; he is in the white man’s world a world where trees are planted in â€Å"military rows† (144) and although all living things are beautiful â€Å"it is the beauty of captivity.† His prison is the â€Å"bluff of being civilized† a place where he has â€Å"to do everything [he doesn’t] want to do† a place where he â€Å"never [does] anything† he wants. (144) The narrator of â€Å"She’s Free’ on the other hand, is a negro and has lived life in a white man’s world as a slave subjected â€Å"by law †¦[to] torture and chain† (line 1) solely because of the color of her skin, â€Å"the hue of her face.† (line 2) Thus her enslavement is existent and tangible – she bears the signs of â€Å"bondage and blood †¦ scourges and chains,† (line 7) whereas the Indian bears no physical signs of enslavement and is allowed t o move around and exist without abuse, in his view he is imprisoned â€Å"dancing to the strings of customs and traditions.† (144) Both narrators seek escape from their imprisonment, he by returning to his homeland and people and she by escaping and running away. The difference however is that he is escaping to the familiarity and safety of his family and his people but she, â€Å"with her arm on her child† (line 3) is escaping into the unknown world where â€Å"the danger was fearful [and] the pathway was wild.†(line 4) She is resolute in her journey preferring to be free from oppression even though her future is unknown; she is determined and tenacious in coping with what may come before her â€Å"poverty, danger and death she can brave† (line 13) for the freedom of her child, â€Å"for the child of her love is no loner a slave.† (line 14) The Indian however is not so unwavering. Although still â€Å"twenty miles from home† (146) he begins to feel concern and â€Å"afraid of being looked on as a stranger by [his] own people.† (146) He states that he doesn’t fit in either world, â€Å"certainly not

Forrensic computing - securing evidence Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Forrensic computing - securing evidence - Essay Example Archie Rival, who got the job, says he is very happy with Axta’s work and doesn’t feel there is any conflict. However, at a recent annual review meeting the shipping clerk Asif Iwud told his reviewer in confidence that he believed Axta had not ‘forgotten and forgiven but had other fish to fry’. He believes she will be resigning soon and is hoping to get her job. Evidence is the means and materials that enable a case to be proven. The evidence shows the actual events that took place in any situation, and evidence can either be Digital, Electronic or physical. Digital Evidence is the information that is transmitted or stored in computers in binary form, and which is admissible in a court of law. Electronic Evidence is evidence or data of investigative value which can be stored and transmitted by electronic devices. Various jurisdictions allow for various principles concerning electronic evidence, but these principles are quite similar to the principles defined by the ACPO (Association of Chief Police Officers). 4 principles of digital and electronic evidence are defined in the third version of the Good Practice Guide for Computer Based Evidence, and these will be described here. Whenever there is cause for computers to be confiscated for forensic examination, there are some pointers as regards the ACPO (Association of Chief Police Officers) Guide for Good Practice concerning digital and electronic evidence. The guidelines are basically for Police Officers in the United Kingdom, but it is good practice to follow these guidelines especially when there is need to seize and examine electronic data. It is also good practice to treat electronic data in the same manner as physical or traditional forensic evidence, and the ACPO guidelines are aimed at achieving the required standards. Also following these principles will ensure the integrity of the case and, ensure that the steps taken are in compliance with the

Dq-4-Sheila Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Dq-4-Sheila - Essay Example example, the case study provided in this research involves studying the effects of the 2010 murder in Northern Illinois University among parents, students as well as the Faculty members. Normally this is the second step in implementing any type of research design. The objectives are usually formulated to serve a purpose of a guiding formula for undertaking a research; they are usually formulated in a realistic and manageable to ensure that the research meets all the intended objectives for instance (Alter, 2013): The case study provided, could be guided by an objective of studying and identifying the psychological effects of the 2010 murder among students and other concerned stakeholders. There are different types of data. However, it is usually crucial for any researcher to identify and determine the appropriate data that his intended research will require. Additionally, the researcher should identify and state the sources of data, taking in consideration the nature of his/her study for example if the research is a case study, the researcher could opt for qualitative or quantitative data recorded in books as well as other primary sources of data that could be collected through interviews (Alter, 2013). This information is usually properly stated at the beginning of the research for readers to have an insight regarding the intended research dimensions presented. There are different techniques applied in collecting research data; however, the criteria for selecting any research technique is usually based on the type of data needed, taking into consideration the research design as well as the objectives for instance, a theoretical research would majorly depend on qualitative data, which can be collected through focus group interviews or even observation (Bryman & Cramer, 2011). This is the fifth step of implementing a research design; identification of a study scope is crucial for purposes of determining the sample size as well as the geographical coverage of a

Effect of the Recession on Sustainable Development

Effect of the Recession on Sustainable Development Sustainability has been on the lips of everyone involved in the construction industry for the last 10 years. However, the issue of Sustainability arouse first in a Report named Our Common Future. This then prompted the need for the conference in Brazil (1992). Discussed in this conference were the core principles of sustainability being; Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generation to meet their own needs Greene, D. (1997) Both Sustainability and the Recession are both terms in which have a range of meanings and attitudes. As the issue of Sustainability is being used more and more in the construction industry is recent years it is imperative to try and pin point exactly what sustainable commercial construction is. It is also paramount to determine just exactly what the recession is and show just how they have affected each other. In recent years, we have had two previous recessions, one being in the 1980s and the second one being in the early 1990s. This is the third recession that the country has been in, in as many decades. In June 2008, the country officially entered the third recession, of which we are still in today, Sustainability has become more of a problem in recent years due to the major issue of the recession. Sustainability needs to be addressed and identified and it is important that it is done within one of the largest industries, if not the biggest, being the construction industry. In my research I will hopefully try to clarify the terms, sustainable commercial construction and the recession and show how each one has affected the other. Keywords Sustainable Commercial Construction; Recession; Introduction One of the main priorities for the construction industry and any construction company are to produce Sustainable Commercial Buildings. As everyone knows, the country has been hit by a recession with the construction industry being hit the hardest. It is important to define exactly what Sustainable Construction in commercial buildings is and exactly what the recession is and see just how the recession has affected Sustainable Commercial Construction 1.2 Aim In this dissertation I aim to investigate exactly what the recession is, exactly what sustainable development is and I aim to show the audience just how each one has affected each other 1.3 Project Objectives To define the recession To define sustainable construction To determine just how the recession and sustainable construction have been affected by each other. What barriers or influences encourage or deter companies to build Sustainable Commercial Buildings. 1.4 Proposed Structure 1.4.1 Background First of all the research will define both the recession and will also define sustainable construction and go on to look at how they have been affected by one another. The research should then go on and look at what barriers or influences encourage or deter companies to build Sustainable Buildings. 1.4.2 Collection of Results The collection of results will be accomplished using professionals who are currently working in and around the construction industry. Results will be collected with information regarding their views on whether Sustainable Construction has been affected by the Recession and other information regarding Sustainable Construction. 1.4.3 Analysis The results collected from my interviews will then be analysed so that an outcome can be gained to answer the investigation objectives pointed out earlier. They will also be analysed to show a comparison with past research relating Sustainable Construction and the Recession. 1.4.4 Final Analysis The final analysis is the last part of the research, like a conclusion it will assess the data to check and make sure that all aspects of the investigation have been covered. The investigation will then be checked to make sure it cannot be improved and revisited. Sustainable Commercial Construction and the Recession Scope of the Chapter This section of the dissertation will determine the definition of Sustainable Commercial Construction and will also try and determine just exactly what a recession is. 2.2 The Recession In June 2008 the United Kingdom officially entered the recession that we are still in today. The main area that has been affected in this country and many other countries is construction, which has been hit massively. Companies and businesses right across the board are being affected from big names such as Balfour Beatty, the Kier Group down to small independent companies. Any sort of work is few and far between nowadays with every company accepting any sort of work no matter how small or big it is. I feel that this topic as it will show you past the commercial side of the recession. Everybody knows that the country is in the recession, but not that many people know exactly what a recession is and what damage it can cause to the economy and the country. It has a massive knock on affect right the way down the board and I believe that if we are going to get out of the recession quickly and efficiently people need to know how to adapt and work with it. The recession is not very well understood for one simple factor: There is not a universally agreed upon definition. There is a standard newspaper definition of a recession is a decline in the gross domestic product (GDP) for two or more consecutive quarters. There are 4 quarters to the year and each one lasts for approximately 12 weeks. This definition is not popular with most economists for two main reasons. Firstly, this definition does not take into account changes in other variables such as unemployment rate or consumer confidence. Secondly, by using quarterly data this definition makes it difficult to pinpoint when a recession starts to when it ends. The second definition is from the Business Cycle Dating Committee (BCDC). The committee provides a better way to find out whether or not there has been a definition as they determine the amount of business activity in the economy by looking at, employment, industrial production, real income and whole-sail retail sites. The past 20 years has been a growing realisation that the current model of development is unsustainable and basically, we are living beyond our means. Before anyone knew anything about this current recession, one part of construction that was on the rise was sustainable development. It is rumoured that one of the key factors in which the recession was brought on is that companies were being too selfish in that they were thinking about the short term rather than the long term. Some unsustainable business practices were concerned about profiteering and not focused enough on balancing profit with social and environmental targets. With the current economic crises being the way it is, companies are rarely willing to spend money on anything but essentials to their business. The credit crunch has virtually halted all new development and with falling land prices, affordability has become more important than ever, thereby highlighting development costs and the increased expense of complying with sustainable standards. Ultimately crucial issues related to sustainable development such as healthcare, education, affordable access to food, water, energy and responsible harvesting of natural resources are being affected as the crisis deepens. The increasing stress we put on resources and environmental systems such as water, land and air cannot go on forever. The need for Sustainable Commercial Development is too great to be ignored. Even in this recession and the state that the economy is in it is absolutely paramount that we as a country, continent and as a human race continue to develop sustainably. Instead of businesses thinking of their short term future, they now need to be thinking about their long term future. Instead of reeling in the cash straight away, we need to hold out and wait for the return from sustainable buildings and development all round. The sooner people and companies realize this, then the sooner the construction industry will have left the recession and will be planning for the future and sustainable development wont be a thing upon which businesses sigh about doing, it will become the first thing they think of. 3.0 Sustainable Buildings Sustainability in building was completely unknown up until around the late 1970s. The idea only came about in reply to the energy crisis and people concerned about the environment. There are not many people in this country or the world in fact who will not have heard the word sustainability but the vast majority of them will not understand what it means. According to Holmberg and Sandbrook (1992) there now appears to be 70 definitions in circulation. However, out of these 70 or so definitions that are circulating there is no definite, set definition of sustainable building but according to Kirby et al (1995) the definition which is commonly deemed as the most accurate or the official one is the Brundtland definition (WCED 1987) development that meets the needs of the present without comprising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Although, Brundtland did make this definition, it is an adaption of a previous definition made by Lester Brown. Lester Brown however defined a sustainable society, rather than sustainable development. He defined a sustainable society as one that is able to satisfy its needs without diminishing the chance of future generations. (Charles J Kilbert 2008) It is easy to see the comparisons between the two definitions made firstly by Lester Brown and secondly, the Brundtland definition. Although the Brundtland definition is the most common and widely used, it doesnt define sustainable construction, only sustainable development. According to Dickie and Howard (2000) they describe sustainable construction as the contribution of construction to sustainable development. This definition from Dickie an Howard (2000) is very simple, but explains a lot, anyone would be able to understand it. ORiorden (1985) commented on the difficulty of describing sustainability, describing its definition as Exploration into a tangled conceptual jungle where watchful eyes lurk at every bend. This description of how hard and elusive it is to describe correctly what sustainability just shows you how vague and confusing defining sustainability can become. sustainability is like plumbing or air conditioning its a general attitude you apply to a building. It doesnt create its own architecture but it informs the way architecture is produced Slavid, Ruth (1998) uses this definition and its obvious that there are not only different definitions but also different meanings to the definitions. According to Addis, B and Talbot, R (2001) Sustainable development is about achieving economic and social objectives while minimising adverse environmental impacts This definition comes from the e-journal; Sustainable construction procurement: a guide to delivering environmentally responsible projects by Addis, B and Talbot, R (2001). As you can see all the definitions on this page and the previous page all define sustainable construction, development or sustainability on the whole, and they are all pretty much nothing like each other. Although there have been many definitions of sustainability for example that from the World Congress of Architects (1993) Sustainability means meeting our needs today without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs Even though all the definitions above are different you can see a definite trend between them. I believe they are all loosely based on that from the Report of the World Commission on Environment and Development: Our Common Future. This report is commonly known as The Brundtland Report. Some people may believe that having no definition for sustainable development could be an issue because how are people meant to implement and deliver sustainable development and in this case sustainable construction if an official definition has not been agreed. 3.1 Case Study To help what is understand what is involved in Sustainable Commercial Construction, a case study will be used. Whitecross High School, Hereford, England Owner: Herefordshire County Council Address: Three Elms Road, Herford, Herefordshire Architect: Haverstock Associates Building Services Consultant: Couch Perry Wilkes Contractor: Stepnell LTD Figure 1 Image of Whitecross High School, Hereford, England Whitecross High School in Hereford was primarily designed where energy / sustainability was high priority for the client. The gross internal floor area of the school is 9160m2 and was built for approximately 900 students. The brief for the project contained stringent sustainability requirements, and this became the key driver for the design process. Sustainable features of Whitecross High School: High mass and thermal insulation levels with low air permeability rates Excellent air quality and summertime temperature control Heat recovery ventilation 90% efficient Very Low annual energy consumption Sustainable solutions provided within PFI cost framework Natural materials used throughout construction Hazardous materials excluded from the building specification Following the case study, we can see at the Whitecross High School that not only is there sustainable energy solutions in this sustainable building but there have been solutions designed in the buildings. For example the excellent air quality and summertime temperature control system means that other expensive and unreliable systems would not be needed, saving time and money on the sustainable building. You can tell by the number of definitions and the lack of agreement of an official definition about the subject of sustainability and sustainable construction is confusing and complex. The main disagreement is apparent around how to implement sustainable construction what systems actually make a sustainable building, sustainable. 4.0 Research Approach 4.1 Scope of the Chapter This chapter of my dissertation will outline the research methods used to complete my dissertation. It will compare the two different types of research and will also show why I have chosen my specific method. 4.2 Qualitative and Quantitative Research When researching for any type of information there are different methods that can be used. There are two principal strands of data collection methodologies and strategies which are distinctly different. (Bryman 2004) Quantitative research involves the use of structured questions where the answer are predetermined, this research is done over a large number of respondents and is statistically valid while qualitative research is about collecting and analysing data interpreting what people say or do for instance a questionnaire. The very nature of the dissertation, the different types of information needed in order to achieve the objectives and the resources that are actually available like time implications for instance affects what types of research methods will be used. To gain a wider perspective about sustainable development and about the current recession period, it is always a good idea to do some research within the public, using both primary and secondary research. There are many different types of research that you could do, some of which are quantitative and qualitative approaches. Usually research methods and styles are not mutually exclusive although only one, or a small number of approaches, will normally be adopted due to resource constraints on the work. The different approaches focus on collection and analysis of data rather than examination of theory and literature. Quantitative approaches normally seek to gather factual data, studying relationships between facts and how such facts and relationships accord with theories and the findings and of research carried out previously. Qualitative approaches seek to gain and understand peoples perceptions, both as individuals and as groups. This research looks at peoples beliefs, understandings, opinions and views etc are investigated. The data is detailed and rich in content because the data gathered may be unstructed, but will be in their raw form. If you do use this method of research you would have to be willing to be highly laborious, involving transcripting interviews etc. The researchers are likely to be closely involved in all stages of the work in a more active way than usually is acceptable in quantitative studies. Features of Qualitative research Features of Quantitative research Difference in respect to: Quantitative Research Qualitative Research The aim is a complete, detailed description. The aim is to classify features, count them, and construct statistical models in an attempt to explain what is observed. Underpinning philosophy Rationalism: That human beings achieve knowledge because of their capacity to reason (Bernard, 1994) Empiricism; the only knowledge that human beings acquire is from sensory experiences (Bernard, 1994) Researcher may only know roughly in advance what he/she is looking for Researcher knows clearly in advance what he/she is looking for. Approach to inquiry Structured/ rigid/ predetermined methodology Unstructured/ flexible/ open methodology Recommended during earlier phases of research projects Recommended during latter phases of research projects Main Purpose of investigation To quantify extent or variation in phenomenon, situation, issues etc. To describe variation in a phenomenon, situation, issue etc. The design emerges as the study unfolds All aspects of the study are carefully designed before data is collected Measurement of variables Emphasis on some form of either measurement or classification of variable. Emphasis on description of variables Researcher is the data gathering instrument Researcher uses tools, such as questionnaires or equipment to collect numerical data Sample Size Emphasis on greater sample size Fewer cases Data is in the form of words, pictures or objects Data is in the form of numbers and statistics. Focus of inquiry Narrows focus in terms of extent of inquiry, but assembles required information from a greater number of respondents Covers multiple issues but assembles required information from fewer respondents Subjective individuals interpretation of events is important ,e.g., uses participant observation, in-depth interviews etc. Objective seeks precise measurement analysis of target concepts, e.g., uses surveys, questionnaires etc Dominant research value Reliability and objectivity (value-free) Authenticity but does not claim to be value- free Qualitative data is more rich, time consuming, and less able to be generalized.ÂÂ   Quantitative data is more efficient, able to test hypotheses, but may miss contextual detail. Dominant research topic Explains prevalence, incidence, extent, nature of issues, opinions and attitude; discovers regularities and formulates theories Explores experiences, meanings, perceptions and feelings Researcher tends to become subjectively immersed in the subject matter. Researcher tends to remain objectively separated from the subject matter. Analysis of data Subjects variables to frequency distributions, cross-tabulations or other statistical procedures Subjects responses, narratives or observation data to identification of themes and describes these Communication of findings Organisation more analytical in nature, drawing references and conclusions, and testing magnitude and strength of relationship Organisational more descriptive and narrative in nature Figure 2 Table adapted from www.wilderdom.com and Kumar (2005) The features of qualitative and quantitative research methods along with the differences in the two methods can be seen in Figure which has been adapted from www.wilderdom.com and Kumar (2005) The table shows the two different research methods that can be used and their advantages and disadvantages. It shoes the features of both Qualitative Research and Quantitative Research. 4.3 Research Design There are several different ways that the research for this project could be undertaken and when looking at the most suitable method. There are three major factors that are the most significant amongst the others that need to be taken into account. They are; Reliability Replication Validity These three factors that have been identified are all issues that could affect the consistency, therefore the reliability of the data for my dissertation 4.4 Approaches to date collection 4.4.1 Interviews Interviews have been described by Kumar (2005) as being person to person interaction with specific purposes. There are two main types of interviews and these can be seen in figure below taken from Kumar (2005, page. 123) Interview Styles Unstructured Structured Flexible interview structure Rigid interview structure Flexible interview contents Rigidy interview, rigid interview contents Flexible interview questions Questions and their wording Figure 3 Diagram showing the two possible interview techniques The advantages and disadvantages of interviews have been identified in the table below. Advantages of Interview Disadvantages of Interview ÂÂ   More appropriate for complex situations Can be expensive and time consuming Interviewing has a wider application Interviewee could be bias Questions can be explained Quality of information may deteriorate Good for in depth information Quality of interviewee may be poor Face to face interaction Quality of data could differ on interaction Figure 4 Advantages and disadvantages of the interview 4.5 Research Proposal Because of my dissertation, and what it is involving, it was not feasible for me to produce any quantitative data as the majority of the general public will have very limited or no information whatsoever about my chosen subject. Therefore my research method was a set of self designed research questions used to gather honest and first hand information, about the effects the recession is having on commercial sustainable construction. The purpose of this interview based approach was to abstract through questions the information needed to answer the research question. Tesch, (1990) defines qualitative research as Intensive study of one individual or a group as an entitiy, through observation, self-reports and any other means. In this case the individual was interviewed alone, yet was also grouped together in order to distinguish any inter related experiences. 4.6 Sampling It is clear that to get the best information possible, a wide range of professionals needs to be used. I therefore opted to use professionals from different backgrounds to interview. The professions in which I used are; Building Surveyor Life Cycle Director Commercial Sector Director Senior Design Manager The reason for selection of the professionals is that hopefully I can gain an insight into the different views on the set of self designed questions that have been prepared for them. I was careful in choosing the professionals in which I did. I wanted to gain the best information possible to obtain the best results for my dissertation. I decided on choosing professionals who are well established in their different fields and have a wide vocabulary of knowledge, and in some cases, have plenty of experience. 4.7 Interview Design I decided in order to gain the best and most accurate information it would be best to have a structure interview. Therefore I would take a set of pre determined questions into the interview and asked to the professionals. The advantages of such a structured interview would be that each and every one of the professionals would be asked the same questions then a better analysis could be gained as their responses are all to the same questions 4.8 Summary The above chapter covers the whole process of collecting data and the means for it to be compiled. 5.0 Data Collection Activities 5.1 Scope of the Chapter This chapter in hand looks at the activities that took place in order for me to successfully collect the data. The data collection activity covers what was completed to collect the resulting information and the processes that have taken place. The following chapter should show the results collected, which be analysed according to the objectives. 5.2 Data Collection The only source of data collection was conducted using structures interviews. The interviews were recording on different days, but in the same week as I deemed it important as it would give me the most accurate information. The professionals all gave a good sample of answers to the questions given to them. The interviewees were of a high professional level and of high standard. 5.3 Interview Results I considered it was important to correctly select the amount of the actual questions I would be asking. This was for the simple reason that it would give me the best and most accurate answers about sustainable commercial buildings, the recession and whether or not they have had an effect on each other. Independant Variables I deemed it necessary to find out the age of the interviewees, the years of experience they have in the necessary feild and more importantly what their profession was. Age of the interviewee Figure 5 shows the age of the participants Amount of experience in current profession Figure 6 shows the amount of experience each interviewee has What profession the participants are in Figure 7 shows the profession of the interviewees 6.0 Data analysis 6.1 Scope of the chapter In this chapter I will critically analyse the results that were compiled from the interviews that were undertaken. The results will assess the impact that the interviews have had upon the research completed, and will compare or contrast findings. The way in which I will be analysing the interviews is by looking at each question, explaining each of the results and from there, I will be analysing them. Question 01 Analysis Do you utilise in-house staff rather than specialist consultants? Results You can see from the transcripts that the interviewees have answered the question, with different opinions. Interviewee 1 and Interviewee 3 both say that they use both in-house and specialist consultants. Interviewee 3 then goes on to say that the main reason they are using in-house staff rather than specialist consultants is that they are much much cheaper. Interviewee 2 and Interviewee number 5 both have the same sort of answer. They both said that they try to use specialist consultants rather than in-house staff in their companies. Interviewee number 2 explained it was because contractors are seeing the need for specialist advice that can help them differentiate in a competitive market; to have an edge and make sure they win the tender. Interviewee number 4 however, said that in his company they try to utilise the in-house staff as much as possible but because the company in which he is employed by is fairly small company compared to the Balfour Beattys, Carillions and other such companies.. Analysis From this question, I have a mixed bag of answers to whether companies use in-house staff or specialist consultants. Because of the varied answers, I believe that some companies are doing better in the recession than other companies and still can afford the specialist consultants. I also believe from the answers that some people believe it is more important to gain the specialist knowledge than it is to use in house staff as they believe using in-house staff hinders your chances of winning a contract when tendering for it so having the best knowledge possible is key. Questions 02: Analysis Has the amount of contractors being tendered to changed since the recessional period started? Results I can see from the transcripts there is a popular answer to this question. Interviewee numbers 3, 4 and 5 all agree that there has been some change in the amount of contractors being tendered too. Interviewee 1 the Senior Design Manager is alone when saying that there has been no change. He explains because Balfour Beatty is a big big company they have a local supply chain in every major area. He explains that at Balfour Beatty they use contractors that they have had previous relationships with because you get better quality out of them. Interviewee number 2 is also alone with his answer. He states Tender lists are long, but I am not too sure at the moment if this is better or worse than before.. At the moment, he is unsure as to whether having long tender lists is better or worse than before. He then goes on to state a main problem with long tender lists is that contractors dont want to spend money on sustainability advice if they only have a low win probability. Analysis There is a common answer among the professionals about the amount of contractors being tendered too. The two Building Surveyors and the Life Cycle Director all believed that there has been some change since the recession started. This tells me that the building surveyors definitely believe that there has been a significant change in the amount of contractors being tendered too. The Senior Design Manager (Interviewee 1), whom I believe is the professional with the most experience, is completely alone with his answer. This in my opinion is because he works at one of the largest construction companies in Europe. Although the recession would still have had an effect on Balfour Beatty, I believe they would not nearly be as affected by is as some of the smaller companies in the industry. The Commercial Sector Director (Interviewee 2) doesnt really give a definitive answer to the question; he just states that the tender lists are long. Question 03: What financial arrangements have been put in place depending on sustainability? Results When asking this question you can see from the transcripts that there was a very popular occurrence of and around the term BREEAM Excellent Interviewee numbers 1, 2, 3 and 4 all mentioned the word BREEAM. Interviewee 1 said I think if affected by the recession but its actually probably a very positive time for us he also went on to say if you look at commercial projects whoever is building a commercial project has got to think about their tenant and tenants often look for; is it a sustainable building? So it is actually a marketing tool that we are using now you know to give us an advantage against our opponents so sustainability rath