Wednesday, September 2, 2020

Rewrite PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN papers based on tutor's feedbacks Essay

Revise PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN papers dependent on mentor's inputs for my course International Strategy Management. Essayist MUST be ON TIME. Author needs to s - Essay Example In the present quickly changing business condition where rivalry is extremely furious I understand that so as to succeed I have to find and exploit his own skills so as to exceed expectations in his picked field of profession. I ought to improve my insight, abilities and aptitudes to remain in the opposition or probably I will be lingered behind. When abandoned, I will probably confront end from my current employment, yet additionally from my future vocation. Particularly on my case that I am outsider I ought to improve my in scholarly angles as well as my correspondence and relational aptitudes. My remarkable information, aptitudes, and abilities are instruments that I can use to improve not exclusively to myself yet additionally to mankind all in all. Having these he ought to make an arrangement on what these are, the manner by which and when to utilize them. These are the basic issues that I found and took a shot at during the initial segments of the course. I mapped up my self-improvement plan. As what Elliott said1, self-awareness arranging furnishes us with access to connect our fantasies towards its acknowledgment. In the main workshop, I discovered the how significant reflection isn't simply in self-awareness yet additionally in learning when all is said in done. ... Before I had a thought that so as to pick up something I simply needed to depend on the coddled lessons and learning strategies. In view of this learning hypothesis, by method of solid experience, perception and reflection, framing theoretical idea, and testing in new circumstances; Kolb underscored to us that learning is on drenching oneself in a genuine case situation instead of mimicking reality in a classroom4. With these acknowledge, I felt enabled by the main workshop. I likewise felt answerable for my self-awareness. I became certain that I would take care of my issues in life especially in my shortcomings that, I for one accept, will hamper my self-improvement. I understand that I ought to get proactive in my journey to develop myself, similarly as what Covey5 said in his Habit 1 Be Proactive. The idea of self-awareness as I see it in the wake of completing the course is to be proactive and to create ourselves ceaselessly that will empower us to be serious today and later on. During the topping off of the individual learning style poll conceptualized by Mumford6, I discovered that I am extremist student. That mirrored that I could learn better when I am uncovered in solid experience. This defended my enthusiasm for participating in hands-on exercises that require cooperation. I likewise discovered in Guirdham's contention fathoming style questionnaire7 that my character is slanted towards maintaining a strategic distance from and contending. I discovered this intriguing since it precisely mirrored my own character. As per Guirdham's poll, my character isn't slanted to understand struggle. I tend to rival others as opposed to finding an answer for the

Saturday, August 22, 2020

Free Essays on Objectivity Vs Relativity

Objectivity versus Relativity An Analysis of Natalie Davis’s The Return of Martin Guerre In his book, That Noble Dream, Peter Novick talks about the contention, in the chronicled calling over the respectable dream of authentic objectivity. The chronicled calling was established in the late nineteenth century and it was established on the perfect of firm recorded objectivity. Between the two World Wars, this perfect of chronicled objectivity came into question as certain students of history started to help â€Å"historical relativism.† This counter to authentic objectivity tested the since a long time ago upheld idea that genuine history comprises of realities alone. While this relativist see at first just served to put the consecrated idea of objectivity on edge, it caused a huge aggravation in the chronicled calling as an ever increasing number of youthful history specialists rushed to the relativist pennant (Novick 16). In Natalie Zemon Davis’s book, The Return of Martin Guerre, about the popular instance of a French peasant’s fraud, she utilizes b oth objectivist and relativist sees. Davis starts her composition on Martin Guerre by communicating an objectivist reason, however her composing doesn't maintain this reason, as Davis’s contentions slip into the domain of relativity. The possibility of verifiable objectivity has consistently been a focal perfect for the authentic calling. In fundamental, the components of objectivity can be summarized as focusing on the truth of the past and to reality that accompanies that reality and an extremely unforgiving detachment between the crude rule realities and any qualities that one may wish to append to those realities (Novick 1). An objectivist must utilize just the realities, trying to take them outside of any relevant connection to the subject at hand with anything in the historian’s own time. The target history specialist must gander at all of the realities conceivable and investigate them with a clinical separation, nearly as, â€Å"an entomologist considering a trembling example speared with a pin.† (Novick 14) Wh... Free Essays on Objectivity Vs Relativity Free Essays on Objectivity Vs Relativity Objectivity versus Relativity An Analysis of Natalie Davis’s The Return of Martin Guerre In his book, That Noble Dream, Peter Novick talks about the contention, in the chronicled calling over the honorable dream of recorded objectivity. The recorded calling was established in the late nineteenth century and it was established on the perfect of firm chronicled objectivity. Between the two World Wars, this perfect of chronicled objectivity came into question as certain students of history started to help â€Å"historical relativism.† This counter to recorded objectivity tested the since quite a while ago upheld thought that genuine history comprises of realities alone. While this relativist see at first just served to put the consecrated thought of objectivity on edge, it caused a critical unsettling influence in the verifiable calling as an ever increasing number of youthful antiquarians rushed to the relativist standard (Novick 16). In Natalie Zemon Davis’s book, The Return of Martin Guerre, about the acclaimed instance of a French peasant’s wholesal e fraud, she utilizes both objectivist and relativist sees. Davis starts her composition on Martin Guerre by communicating an objectivist reason, yet her composing doesn't maintain this reason, as Davis’s contentions slip into the domain of relativity. The possibility of verifiable objectivity has consistently been a focal perfect for the chronicled calling. In fundamental, the components of objectivity can be summarized as focusing on the truth of the past and to reality that accompanies that reality and an extremely unforgiving partition between the crude guideline realities and any qualities that one may wish to join to those realities (Novick 1). An objectivist must utilize just the realities, making a point to take them outside of any relevant connection to the issue at hand with anything in the historian’s own time. The target antiquarian must gander at all of the realities conceivable and investigate them with a clinical separation, nearly as, â€Å"an entomologist considering a shuddering example speared with a pin.† (Novick 14) Wh...

Friday, August 21, 2020

Ethical Lessons Learned from Corporate Scandals Essay examples -- Busi

Moral Lessons Learned from Corporate Scandals Morals is about conduct and despite predicament; it is tied in with doing the proper thing. Preferably, administrative pioneers and their kin will act morally because of their disguised righteous fundamental beliefs. The Enron outrage is the most huge corporate breakdown in the US and it exhibits the requirement for huge changes in bookkeeping and corporate administration in the United States. It is too a require a nearby gander at the moral nature of the way of life of business by and large and of business enterprises (Lessons from the Enron Scandal). The breakdown of even the littlest of organizations impacts numerous individuals, and in this way even the littlest business can take in what not to do from the multibillion dollar organization. The disappointment of one’s business will incredibly and contrarily influence its representatives, accomplices, just as the groups of every one of those gatherings. Entrepreneurs have an obligation to work in a judicious, legitimate and moral way. The significant exercises that were represented by the breakdown of Enron and other corporate outrages will be the profound quality play of the new economy. It will show officials and the American open the most significant morals exercises of this decade. Money related astuteness is not a viable replacement for a decent corporate system. Money related bookkeeping is a regressive looking, surprisingly mind boggling, subject to abstract understanding, powerless against a few disputable bookkeeping regulations...

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Human Resource Management And The Development Of...

Human resources management has become a critical influence factor to the development of contemporary hospitality industry. In accordance with Enz (2009), human resource management issues are the thorniest problem to hospitality managers throughout the worldwide hospitality industry. It is recorded that the turnover rate for this industry is normally from 60% to 300%,(Lee Way, 2010).Against this background, challenges caused by the high staffing turnover rate are difficult problems in hospitality HRM. In this essay I will focus on three main challenges that are link with high turnover rate: shortage of experienced staff, low morale and productively, and high turnover cost, and then, explanation of a strategic human resource management approach which can be an effective solution to those challenges. At the last part of this essay two aspects of a human resource manager’s role would be described and explain how does the strategic human resource management approach and those human resource manager’s role relate with this three challenges. Reasons and challenges refer to high turnover rate Hospitality is an industry that critically depend on their human resource, employees’ customer service is the main part of hospitality production,(KysilkaCsaba, 2014). In this case, high quality employees and employee retention should be main areas to successfully operate a hospitality company. However, high staffing turnover widely exist in hospitality industry, particularly, employeesShow MoreRelatedBusiness Analysis : Hospitality Industry Essay1368 Words   |  6 PagesINTRODUCTION In this contemporary era, it is very important for the hospitality industry that its HR department come up with strategic techniques of retaining the employees and not lonely that but also find the qualified workforce which will boost up the organization in the longer run. As we all know the facts that the hospitality industry is operating in a competitive market and in order to gain competitive market. So better workforce and skilled staff would help them to increase their value inRead MoreHuman Resource Evaluation in Hotel Units1345 Words   |  5 PagesHuman resource evaluation in hotel units By George Aspiridis and Dimitrios Kyriakou Section A The role of the human resources has increased exponentially throughout the past recent decades, during which time the employees have transformed from the force operating the machines into the most valuable organizational asset. In a contemporaneous business climate that is competitive and dynamic, economic agents have to devise a wide array of competitive advantages and strategic efforts to preserveRead MoreBusiness Analysis : Hospitality Industry Essay1367 Words   |  6 Pages In this contemporary era, it is very important for the hospitality industry that its HR department come up with strategic techniques of retaining the employees and not lonely that but also find the qualified workforce which will boost up the organization in the longer run. As we all know the facts that the hospitality industry is operating in a competitive market and in order to gain competitive market. So better workforce and skilled staff would help them to increase their value in the market inRead MoreHigh Staff Turnover in the Hospitality Industry2533 Words   |  11 PagesIssues 2011 Sabrina | [High Staff Turnover in the Hospitality Industry – Is there a Solution?] | People Products and Performance within the Hospitality Industry | CRITICAL ISSUES in HOSPITALITY Article Front Cover Sheet ------------------------------------------------- Author Name: Sabrina ------------------------------------------------- Theme Selected: People Products and Performance within the Hospitality Industry ------------------------------------------------- PaperRead MoreThe Human Resource Management And The Hotel Industry Essay1291 Words   |  6 Pagessecond Contemporary issue which has been identified is the Human Resource management (Issue). This issue is very important for those managers who are recruiting the workforce for the hotel industry. The problems which are being occurred in this issue is the biggest concern for the hotel industry. This particular, issue has been mostly seen in all the Big-Chain Hotels and Independent Hotels. There are three major problems which have profoundly become the cause of HR issues in hospitality industry. 1Read MoreImpact Of Globalization On The Hotel Industry Essay1299 Words   |  6 PagesIntroduction With the interference of globalization in the hotel industry, it is inevitable for the hotel companies to meet with different environmental conditions and forced them to study about different management approaches in order to sustain with competing environmental circumstances which would enable them to realize, both negative and positive effects. Since the international trade and business has expanded, there is no doubt that the international linkage is a must. (ZhenJia) GlobalizationRead MoreCareer Advancement At Malaysian Private Universities Essay987 Words   |  4 Pagesorganizational commitment. Journal of Management Development, 29(9), 807-827. 6. Barnett, B.R. Bradley, L. (2007). The impact of organisational support for career development on career satisfaction. Career Development International, 12(7), 617-636. 7. Baruch, Y. (2004b). Transforming careers — from linear to multidirectional career paths: Organizational and individual perspective. Career Development International, 9(1), 58–73 8. Bridgstock, R. (2011). Skills for creative industries graduate success. Education+TrainingRead MoreThe Importance of Assessment in Hotel and Restaurant Management8124 Words   |  33 PagesAn Assessment of Hospitality Management Study Programmes in Greece: Industry’s Perspectives Eleftheria N. Prinianaki1 TEI of Crete, Greece Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine and assess the relevance of hospitality management programmes to the current and future industry needs in Greece from an industry perspective. Two single session focus groups consisting of hotel general managers highlighted the need for hospitality management programmes to address industry current and future requirementsRead MoreAdler, N. (1991). International Dimensions Of Organizational917 Words   |  4 Pages(5), 465-483. A-Sun, K. Kim, D. (2011). Customer satisfaction, profitability and firm value in the hospitality and tourism industry: An application of American customer satisfaction index. M.Sc. unpublished thesis, University of Missouri. Atkinson, H. Brown, J. (2001). Rethinking performance measures: Assessing progress in UK hotels. International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, 13 (3), 128-135. Baggs, S. Kleiner, H. (1996). How to measure customer service effectively. ManagingRead MorePrevailing Contemporary Themes in Hospitality2237 Words   |  9 PagesPREVAILING CONTEMPORARY THEMES IN HOSPITALITY AND THE UPCOMING FOUR SEASONS HOTELS EXPANSION BY FELIX L. H. MURILLO Glion Online MBA Abstract This paper identifies contemporary themes in the Hospitality Industry and why these are emerging or currently pursued. The themes selected are themes directly related with the expansion of hospitality businesses and in particular as they have an effect in the upcoming growth of Four Seasons Hotels. Although Four Seasons already pursues these contemporary

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

My Interest in College free essay sample

Ever since I was a little girl, my friends would talk about what they wanted to be when they grow up. They would always say stuff like becoming am actor or an actress. Some would say that they wanted to be a singer or a basketball or football player. I always said I wanted to go to collage. Whenever I went to North Carolina to visit my grandparents, they would take me to different collages to see football games and see the bands play. Whenever we would walk around the campus I would see the sororities and fraternities perform in the yard and I told my grandmother that’s what I wanted to do. I think me watching them step in the courtyard had a lot to do with me joining the Danbury High School step team two years in a row. The whole college experience has always been interesting to me. We will write a custom essay sample on My Interest in College or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page I think it’s a good opportunity not only to learn about something you love everyday, but to experience life away from your parents and on your own. I think that college helps build a better and more secure future. It gives students a chance see what it’s like to learn on a new level. College builds a better person. It gives your future some security and success. It opens the door to a lot of new experiences. Career choice is to be a counseling psychologist. I think it’s a good way to get inside people’s head and gain their trust. Knowing that someone trusts you is one of the best feelings in the world. I believe that going to college will help me do that. Me personally, I think that college will help me learn to stand on my own and not depend on my family to shelter me because going to college is not just about education, it’s about life experiences. I also think that it will give me a better learning experience and a chance to expand my education. I know where I’m going in life and I really think that college will help me get there. I think that even after you graduate, college can open up doors in your career and take it to the next level. One thing I hope to gain from college is self-discipline. When you’re in college you don’t have anyone in your ear telling you to get up for class, you have to do it for yourself and be responsible for your own decisions. So, in conclusion I think that going to college is the biggest step to making my dream come true. I think that it will shape me into the person that I am going to be. I know that it will give my future security. I hope that it will open many doors and introduce me to new experiences. I know that it will give me many opportunities that I never dreamed of and take me one step closer to my future and my goals. I have a lot of ambitions and I know that college will help me fulfill them.

Saturday, April 18, 2020

The variations in handwriting that lead to individual characteristics

Handwriting identification relies on the principle that there are individual characteristics that distinguish a person’s handwriting from that of another person. There are no two people in the world, who have the same handwriting just like fingerprints. Handwriting identification is based on the following concepts.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The variations in handwriting that lead to individual characteristics specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More One, there are no two people who have the same writing manner. Two although a person’s handwriting varies, there is habitual features that appear in his or her handwriting and lastly the characteristics that are used to identify each persons’ handwriting vary to a lesser extent than the same characteristics in samples written by other people (Saferstein, 2010). The differences in handwritings have made handwriting identification important in the mod ern world. Handwriting identification is a comparison study that tries to establish the writing in question was done by a specific person through comparison with other texts or samples. In handwriting identification the aspect of variation in handwriting that are considered include; size of the letters, consistency or lack of it while writing, proximity of the letters to the base line, pressure applied while writing, alignment, and the writing instrument used (Mansikki, 2003). How a forensic document examiner analyzes evidence from a photocopier, fax machine, printer, and typewriter The application of various sciences in law is referred to as forensic science. Forensic document examination is the application of allied sciences and analytical techniques to investigate documents. The examination of documents involves analysis and comparison of photocopies, handwriting, typewriting, printing, inks, and other materials in order to establish originality of the materials and detect any al terations. Forensic document examiners may be asked to determine the machine or equipment that was use to produce a document. They may also be asked to establish the specific printer, photocopier, fax, or typewriter that was used to make the document. When examining documents written by a typewriter an examiner tries to look at several things. One, different typewriters are known to cut letters differently. The examiner may also look at the date on the paper and see if it is consistent with the age of the ribbon used in the typewriter. Faxed documents are reduced slightly in size and the line quality is bad. In older models, the faxed document diagonal lines have jagged edges. When a forensic document examiner is investigating these documents, it is important to look at the original document to make comparisons and detect any alterations made. It is also important to look at the TTI (Transmit Terminal Identification) and the RTI (Receiving Terminal Identifier) to see if the document that are in question are authentic (Koppenhaver, 2007).Advertising Looking for essay on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Photocopiers leaves trash marks on the copies made. These trash marks are caused by nicks on the drum and dirt on the glass. A forensic document examiner will seek to see if the trash marks on the paper will be consistent with the ones made on the sample he is trying to seek authenticity. Because of slippage when the paper goes through the photocopier the location of the marks may vary slightly but the marks from each page will align properly (Koppenhaver, 2007). Color printers and photocopiers work by applying multi color and ink on to a paper or any other supporting medium. Many of these machines will form a repeated sequence of inconspicuous yellow dots on the entire surface of the paper or document. These yellow dots are inconspicuous to the eye, but can be seen in the non-printed part of the document when shone with ultraviolet light. Where the relationship and location of the dot relative to the next indicates the serial number of the machine and the date and time the document or paper was made. Forensic document examiners look at these characteristics to make their conclusion about the machine and authenticity of the document (Koppenhaver, 2007). References Huber, R. A. Headrick, A. M. (1999). Handwriting identification: facts and fundamentals. Boca Raton, Fla.: CRC Press Koppenhaver, K. (2007). Forensic document examination: principles and practice. Totowa, N.J.: Humana Press. Mansikki, P. (2003). Handwriting Identification. Web. Saferstein, R. (2010). Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Science. Upper Saddle River, NJ : Prentice Hall.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The variations in handwriting that lead to individual characteristics specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This essay on The variations in handwriting that lead to individual characteristics was written and submitted by user Keaton Durham to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Saturday, March 14, 2020

Jamestown and Plymouth Plantat essays

Jamestown and Plymouth Plantat essays The beginning of colonization was very difficult for the early settlers in the New World. Disease, starvation, greed, and aggressive Native Americans were factors that lead to the end of many colonization attempts in the Americas. The first two successes were Jamestown and Plymouth Plantation. There were many differences between the two, such as the type of local government established, the kind of relationships maintained with the local natives and the way they became self-sufficient. Jamestown used military rule for much of the first decade as a colony. They soon moved to an assembly that was elected by the people. Before the inhabitants of Plymouth Plantation set foot on the New World in the leaders of the expedition drew up the Mayflower Compact, by doing so they formed a civil government. This gave them claim to the land and to rule it in the name of the King. These early forms of democracy seem to have been the best way to rule, due to the many ideas and different backgrounds of many of the inhabitants. Jamestown was on shaky ground from the beginning with the natives leading to two wars with the Pawhatan Indians. They alienated any Indian allies they might have had by forcing them to bow before the King of England. Plymouth started off on the right foot by procuring the help of two English-speaking Indians. These two Natives taught colonists how cultivate corn and acted as envoys with the local natives. This allowed for extensive trade with the Indians of that region. The Plymouth colonist had surpluses of corn crop, which they traded with northern natives for furs. They soon made agreements with the Dutch to split the fur and wampum trade in the New England area. Jamestown on the other hand cultivated many varieties of tobacco and exported it to Europe. Tobacco was in such high demand that the Virginia Company of London pumped more people and money in to the co ...

Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Zara spanish clothing company Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Zara spanish clothing company - Essay Example The above operational characteristic of Zara is considered as one of its major competitive advantages towards its rivals. The firm has also managed to fully avoid outsourcing, a target that has not been achieved by other retailers. In this context, British retailers, like H&M and Benetton, and USA retailers, like Walmart and J.C. Penny, prefer outsourcing all parts of their supply chain, apart from the quality control phase (Ray 2010, p.324). On the other hand, the above retailers seem to have different competitive priorities from Zara. Indeed, these firms focus more on the development of high quantities of clothes, aiming to avoid sending new ranges to their stores on a daily basis, a common practice in Zara (Gourdin 2006). Rather, they set specific time points for sending new ranges to their stores; these ranges will be appropriately aligned with the market demands, in terms of quantity and quality. There are retailers that have tried to minimize the time spent between the producti on line and the store, like Mango, a Spanish retailer, (Leeman 2010); however, still, the time of response to the customers’ needs is more than in Zara. Keeping the standards of their brand name, meaning the characteristics of their products as of their design and quality, is the key competitive priority for retailers in the particular industry. For Zara, responding to the preferences of customers on a continuous basis is the key strategic priority, as reflected in the firm’s supply chain strategy. Currently, Zara is able to launch a new collection quite rapidly; in fact, the average time required for the firm’s new ranges to reach its stores is about 15 days (Rushton and Walker 2007). Moreover, the firm keeps certain of its facilities spare, meaning its trucks and warehouses, so that it is able to respond to emergent market needs without having to wait for completing a pending order (Mangan, Lalwani

Monday, February 10, 2020

Transcendental Meditation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Transcendental Meditation - Essay Example The practice of Transcendental Meditation is one of the varieties of Sanskrit mantras consisted of short words or phrase that when repeated in thought is expected to help the practitioner still the activity of thought and find a deeper level of consciousness. Here, one understands that the basic process of TM is not very different from other forms of meditation, starting with a deep body and mind relaxation for 20 minutes daily, followed by the â€Å"seven-step process,† wherein the first three can be self-taught and the last four, instructed. In order to practice Transcendental Meditation, an individual needs to be initiated by a teacher. This initiation involves sessions of formal instruction, followed by a ceremony in which the applicant makes monetary and other offerings and receives his mantra, selected by the teacher on the basis of the meditator’s temperament and occupation. As previously mentioned, at least a million Americans are initiated today, underscoring TM’s widespread appeal. Transcendental Meditation’s appeal to people is anchored on its recognition that there is a hunger for spiritual vision in the modern world, particularly in the West, which is, then, infused with the spirit of practicality. Firstly, TM has benefited from the tradition that has been cultivated by the practice of yoga by Maharishi’s predecessors, the Eastern mystics, Vivekananda and Yogananda. Then, according to Coward, Hinnells, and Williams, Maharishi emphasized the practical aspect of meditation instead of its religious context.

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Using Technology to Motivate Students in the Science Classroom Essay Example for Free

Using Technology to Motivate Students in the Science Classroom Essay Each year, more students are dropping out of high school. Students are bored and feel that they are not learning anything that is useful in the real world. Teachers are finding an increasing number of students becoming less engaged in their academic studies. There are public schools willing to bribe students to pay attention and make better grades. Instead of bribery, educators need to make the curriculum more appealing to student interests, develop critical thinking skills to be able to adapt and/or solve real life problems. Today’s world is full of media and technology use that can be used in the classroom to spice things up. This paper focuses on the integration of WebQuests, virtual video games, and virtual dissections in the science curriculum. Using Technology to Motivate Students in the Science Classroom Today, a majority of students are either bored, frustrated, or feel like school is a waste of time. Many educators find that these students will not complete assignments, participate in classroom activities, or try their best. There are a number of reasons for the lack of motivation in students including they may have learning disabilities, have bad experiences in school, fear ridicule from their peers, and or they are not learning about a subject they are interested in. Many educators find that these students will not try, will not complete assignments, or participate in classroom discussions or activities. Some students who seem unmotivated may have learning disabilities, had bad experiences in school, fear ridicule, and or are not in a class or subject they are interested in. Some of these students just sit there and daydream. While others become discipline problems by disrupting class and hurting the learning chances of others. Educators are constantly assigning detention and in-school suspension to those with discipline issues. Students who misbehave or have given up tend to have this psychological perceptive that they are compensating for their belief that they are stupid (Mendler, 2000). There are number of public schools that seem to be desperate enough for students to make better grades that they are willing to bribe students, not with candy or homework passes, but with money. There are public schools around the country that have used or are currently using programs that pay students to make better grades. Students who participate in these programs may make better grades, temporarily; however, when the cash incentives are removed the grades tend to return to their normal range. Most educators agree with Sullo (2009) statement that giving students bribes like this only â€Å"devalues education and learning.† Rather than using these extrinsic rewards, educators need to use more intrinsic system that relies on students taking more interest in the topics or materials covered. Pederson’s William’s (2004) study states that the usage of more problem based learning would work better as an intrinsic motivator. In problem based learning students have to set up their own objectives in how to solve a problem given to them by the teacher. This student centered method gives students more ownership of their goals and gives more meaning to their work. In addition, using students centered assessment, where students are involve with their own evaluation, helps students to examine what and how they have performed their tasks. Using a WebQuest Some researchers say that the way to motivate students is to cover topics that relate to real life. One way to make a topic relevant to real life is to use a WebQuest. A WebQuests are inquiry-based activities that were developed in 1995 by Bernie Dodge (March, 2003). This type of activity uses a layered process in which the learner uses the internet to facilitate the acquisition, synthesis and analysis of information. It requires the learner to take charge of their own learning, resulting in better understanding and retention of knowledge. A WebQuest is made up for six critical components: an introduction, task, resources, a step-by-step process, an evaluation, and conclusion (Yoder, 1999). When implemented correctly, WebQuests not only challenges the learner to collect and gather information, but to take the knowledge and apply it to real-life scenarios, relationships and processes. The task itself can be modified in length of time it takes to complete and groups, individual or coll ective. One of the disadvantages of WebQuests is the time it takes a teacher to create or critique a pre-made task. But as with any other good teaching methods, planning and preparation is time-consuming. Most WebQuest are free to use online. Any teachers can create their own WebQuest or use an already made WebQuest. There are WebQuest wizards available online that can help a teacher through the creation process. When using a pre-made WebQuest the teacher must go through the activity and make sure the information if correct and that all the web links are working. A science teacher could create a WebQuest that would have students look at water pollution in an area. The students task would be to research ways to prevent water pollution and ways to clean it up. A few examples of pre-made WebQuest can be found on the sites listed in listed in Table 1. Place Table 1 about here Virtual Games Current and past studies on student motivation have found that traditional instruction lacks researched strategies that could promote motivation in students (Dantonio Beisenherz; 1990). Most educators tend to stick to traditional methods of teaching to the text and having students memorizing facts. Instead, teachers need to use a combination of text, activities, and projects to better engage students. Discovery learning allows students to pursue their own answers to explain an event of what happens during a laboratory experiment is an intrinsic motivational technique. What is today’s perceived mind-waster could be one of tomorrow’s educational solutions. According to an article written by Greenemeir (2009), several educators are advocating that schools use video games because it promotes discovery learning via development of critical thinking skills that students can apply to real-life situations and enhances their understanding in math and science. Video games provide multiple modes and means that can be adapted to different learning styles. They often challenge the learner competitively in order to boost motivation and learning goals. Virtual games allow the learner to take small steps to accomplish complex tasks. Learners are often in charge of their own learning and are given feedback frequently. The Director of Future Learning Initiatives at Kauffman Foundation, Merrilea Mayo, cites studies that show a 7 to 40 percent improvement in learning when using virtual games versus the traditional lecture format (Greenemeier 2009). One of the drawbacks to using video games in an educational setting is finding quality games. Many games tout being educational, but just use superficial elements that do not actually teach content (Dewar, 2010). Educators need to make sure that winning is based on thorough knowledge of material. When creating an educational virtual game the game needs to be relevant and meaningful to the student, show that what is learned can be used in other situations, such as in real life. In addition, games need to involve the student in each aspect, motivate students by piquing their interests. Some games may require a fee, but there are also some quality activities that are free. Whyville, for example, is a virtual world that engages and teaches the learner through various constructional games, role playing and activities. Other examples of virtual games are listed in Table 2. Place Table 2 about here Virtual Dissection Another way to make the topic more interesting and students willing to do an activity would be to use virtual dissections instead of real, hands on dissections in the classroom. There are some students and/or parents that refuse to dissect a real animal for the sake of a science class. One way to get around this problem is to use a virtual dissection program. In a study (Lalley et al. 2010) performed on the virtual dissection software, V-Frog ©, the researchers found that students using the software did not learn more than students who did the actual hands on dissection. However, the advantages to using a virtual dissection can out-weigh any of the possible disadvantages. In the science class, students are able to do an in-depth study of the anatomy of both an invertebrate and vertebrate animals through dissection. Within a virtual dissection, students are able to repeat their dissection as a review; no one would have to deal with the smell, and of the decomposing specimens. In addition, by using a virtual dissection, students are not handling sharp objects or going to their next class like their specimen. There are multiple virtual dissections programs available via software and through different websites, from dissecting mammals, reptiles, owl pellets, to flowers. In addition, there are several free to use, online websites with pictures of the different dissected parts visible (see Table 3). By using online websites, a school can save money on not having to buy new specimens each year per class. In addition, students can review the material in places outside of school. Place Table 3 about here Conclusion It can be hard to motivate students, especially when educators have not been train in how to actually motivate students. Educators not only need to know how to motivate students but also in managing and coping with students who come to class with the plan to create as much disruption as possible in order to entertain themselves. More and more students are dropping out of high school because they are bored and feel that they are not learning anything that is useful in the real world. Educators need to make the curriculum more appealing to student interests, to real life events and problems. If students are interested in the topic and engaged in classroom activities there will be less discipline issues which might lead to less student dropouts. Reference Dantonio, M. Beisenherg, P. (1990). Don’t just demonstrate – motivate! The science teacher, 57(2), 27-29. Dewar, G. (2010). Educational video games. Retrieved from http://www.parenting science.com/educational-video-games.html Greenemeier, L. (2009, January 1). Using virtual worlds and video games to teach the lessons of reality. [Web log comment]. Retrieved from http://www.scientificamerican.com/blog/60- second-science/post.cfm?id=using-virtual-worlds-and-video-game-2009-01-01 Lalley, J.P., Piotrowski, P.S. Battaglia, B., Brophy, K. Chugh, K. (2010). A comparison of V- Frog © to physical frog dissection. International Journal of Environmental Science Education, 5(2), 189-200. March, T. (2003). In What WebQuests Are (Really). Retrieved from http://bestwebquests.com/ what_webquests_are.asp Mendler, A. N. (2000). Motivating students who do not care: Successful techniques for educators. Bloomington, Indiana: National Education Services, 7. Patrick, H., Yoon, C. (2004). Early adolescents’ motivation during science investigation. The Journal of educational research, 97(6), 319-338. Pedersen, S., Williams, D. (2004). Comparison of assessment on effects of learning and motivation in student centered classroom. Journal of Educational Multimedia and Hypermedia, 13(3), 283-306. Sullo, B. (2009). The motivated student: Unlocking the enthusiasm for learning. Alexandria, Virginia: ASCD. Yoder, M.B. (1999). The student WebQuest: A productive and thought provoking use of the internet. Learning and Leading with Technology, 26(7), 6-9. Table 1. WebQuest Web Resources |Internet4Classrooms |http://www.internet4classrooms.com | |WebQuest.org |http://webquest.org | |teAchnology |http://www.teach-nology.com | Table 2. Virtual Game Web Resources |Whyville |http://www.whyville.net | |Kinetic City |http://www.kineticcity.com | |Planet Science |http://www.planet-science.com | Table 3. Examples of Free Virtual Dissection Web Resources |Cow Eye Dissection |http://www.exploratorium.edu/learning_studio/cow_eye/index.html | |Frog Dissection |http://www.cumberland.k12.il.us/schools/chs/starwalt%20projects/Frog%20Dissection/frog_dissection.htm | | |http://www.mhhe.com/biosci/genbio/virtual_labs/BL_16/BL_16.html | |Fetal Pig Dissection |http://www.whitman.edu/biology/vpd/main.html

Wednesday, January 22, 2020

Wanted and Unwanted Sounds and Their Affects on the Psychological and P

Wanted and Unwanted Sounds and Their Affects on the Psychological and Physiological Performance Research Question: How does â€Å"unwanted† sound affect the physiological and psychological performance differently than â€Å"wanted† sound? Thesis statement: â€Å"Wanted† and â€Å"unwanted† sounds have the same physiological effects on the human body but effect its psychological performance differently. Introduction: Sound is a particular auditory impression perceived by the sense of hearing. The presence of unwanted sound is called noise pollution. This unwanted sound can seriously damage and effect physiological and psychological health. For instance, noise pollution can cause annoyance and aggression, hypertension, high stress levels, tinnitus, hearing loss, and other harmful effects depending on the level of sound, or how loud it is. Furthermore, stress and hypertension are the leading causes to heart problems, whereas tinnitus can lead to forgetfulness, severe depression and at times panic attacks. Everything from the sound of an alarm clock in the morning to the sound of an airplane passing by to the sound of your friend screaming at you can cause noise pollution, and leave you effected for a short period, or for the rest of your life. But not all sound is â€Å"unwanted†. Many people listen to music, and go out to clubs and parties without suffering from any of the negative symptoms of â€Å"unwanted† sound. Many people enjoy playing instruments like the piano or the trumpet. â€Å"Wanted† sound, unlike â€Å"unwanted† sound can relief stress, and relaxation and the calming of a person. However on the physiological aspects, â€Å"wanted† sound can be just as harmful as â€Å"unwanted sound†. There are many misconceptions about sound and hearing, and the greatest misconception is about loud sound not being harmful as long as it is wanted. Literature Review: The human body perceives sound through the sensory organ called the ear. Humans have two ears, where sound waves enter and transform into signals that can be perceived as â€Å"hearing†. Hearing is a complicated process. Everything that moves makes a sound. Sound consists of vibrations that travel in waves which enter the ear and are changed into nerve signals that are sent to the brain. The brain interprets the signals as sounds. Sound is measured in decibels (dB), where zero is the lower limit of audibility, and 130... ...cago. 6. Wagman, Richard J. The New Complete Medical and Health Encyclopedia. Volume Two. J.G. Ferguson Publishing Company: Chicago. 7. Wagman, Richard J. The New Complete Medical and Health Encyclopedia. Volume Three. J.G. Ferguson Publishing Company: Chicago. 8. World Book 1998 Multimedia Encyclopedia. â€Å"Ear† 9. World Book 1998 Multimedia Encyclopedia. â€Å"Hearing† 10. World Book 1998 Multimedia Encyclopedia. â€Å"Deafness(Types of hearing loss) 11. Readers Digest. ABC’s of the Human Body: â€Å"The Ear, Nose, and Throat†, pages 208-209 12. Murray, John.Introduction to Human And Social Biology. Little, Brown and Company. 13. Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine. Ninth Edition:1980, pages 108-109 14. The World Book Encyclopedia. World Book, Inc. Chicago:1989. Volume 14, pages 455-456. 15. The World Book Encyclopedia. World Book, Inc. Chicago:1989. Volume 18, pages 599-606. 16. Fay, Thomas H. Noise & Health. The New York Academy of Medicine: 1991. 17. Casa de Maria Research Center. â€Å"Sound Therapy† 18. Webster’s Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary 19. Carassava, Anthee.Mad About the Noise. Time Magazine: July 27, 1998. 20. Dr. Damluji (Interview). Wanted and Unwanted Sounds and Their Affects on the Psychological and P Wanted and Unwanted Sounds and Their Affects on the Psychological and Physiological Performance Research Question: How does â€Å"unwanted† sound affect the physiological and psychological performance differently than â€Å"wanted† sound? Thesis statement: â€Å"Wanted† and â€Å"unwanted† sounds have the same physiological effects on the human body but effect its psychological performance differently. Introduction: Sound is a particular auditory impression perceived by the sense of hearing. The presence of unwanted sound is called noise pollution. This unwanted sound can seriously damage and effect physiological and psychological health. For instance, noise pollution can cause annoyance and aggression, hypertension, high stress levels, tinnitus, hearing loss, and other harmful effects depending on the level of sound, or how loud it is. Furthermore, stress and hypertension are the leading causes to heart problems, whereas tinnitus can lead to forgetfulness, severe depression and at times panic attacks. Everything from the sound of an alarm clock in the morning to the sound of an airplane passing by to the sound of your friend screaming at you can cause noise pollution, and leave you effected for a short period, or for the rest of your life. But not all sound is â€Å"unwanted†. Many people listen to music, and go out to clubs and parties without suffering from any of the negative symptoms of â€Å"unwanted† sound. Many people enjoy playing instruments like the piano or the trumpet. â€Å"Wanted† sound, unlike â€Å"unwanted† sound can relief stress, and relaxation and the calming of a person. However on the physiological aspects, â€Å"wanted† sound can be just as harmful as â€Å"unwanted sound†. There are many misconceptions about sound and hearing, and the greatest misconception is about loud sound not being harmful as long as it is wanted. Literature Review: The human body perceives sound through the sensory organ called the ear. Humans have two ears, where sound waves enter and transform into signals that can be perceived as â€Å"hearing†. Hearing is a complicated process. Everything that moves makes a sound. Sound consists of vibrations that travel in waves which enter the ear and are changed into nerve signals that are sent to the brain. The brain interprets the signals as sounds. Sound is measured in decibels (dB), where zero is the lower limit of audibility, and 130... ...cago. 6. Wagman, Richard J. The New Complete Medical and Health Encyclopedia. Volume Two. J.G. Ferguson Publishing Company: Chicago. 7. Wagman, Richard J. The New Complete Medical and Health Encyclopedia. Volume Three. J.G. Ferguson Publishing Company: Chicago. 8. World Book 1998 Multimedia Encyclopedia. â€Å"Ear† 9. World Book 1998 Multimedia Encyclopedia. â€Å"Hearing† 10. World Book 1998 Multimedia Encyclopedia. â€Å"Deafness(Types of hearing loss) 11. Readers Digest. ABC’s of the Human Body: â€Å"The Ear, Nose, and Throat†, pages 208-209 12. Murray, John.Introduction to Human And Social Biology. Little, Brown and Company. 13. Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine. Ninth Edition:1980, pages 108-109 14. The World Book Encyclopedia. World Book, Inc. Chicago:1989. Volume 14, pages 455-456. 15. The World Book Encyclopedia. World Book, Inc. Chicago:1989. Volume 18, pages 599-606. 16. Fay, Thomas H. Noise & Health. The New York Academy of Medicine: 1991. 17. Casa de Maria Research Center. â€Å"Sound Therapy† 18. Webster’s Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary 19. Carassava, Anthee.Mad About the Noise. Time Magazine: July 27, 1998. 20. Dr. Damluji (Interview).

Tuesday, January 14, 2020

Ethical Consumption of Cell Phones Essay

1. INTRODUCTION In just 30 years, mobile telephony has grown into a major global industry, with an estimated 5 billion users around the world, compared with a total world population of around 7 billion people. While new subscriber growth has slowed somewhat in recent years, product turnover remains high, with over 1 billion new mobile phones shipped in 2009 alone. This paper firstly examines the life cycle of a cell phone, describing its stages from the extraction of the materials to its disposal or re-usage possibilities. It also discussed the ethical issues that impact the environment and society. Lastly, two cell phone manufactures (Apple and Nokia) are being compared in terms of how they deal with environmental impacts. 2. LIFE CYCLE OF A CELL PHONE Stage One: Extraction of Materials Mobile phones generally comprise approximately 40% metals and 40% plastics, with the remainder made up of glass, ceramic and other miscellaneous materials. The parts of a cell phone include the circuit board, the liquid crystal display (LCD) and the rechargeable battery. The circuit board, which controls all of the phone’s functions, consists of copper, gold, silver, lead, nickel, tin, coltan, and zinc. The LCD, which is a flat-panel display where all the information and images appear, is made of glass or plastic. Batteries power the cell phone and, depending on the type of battery, may contain nickel, cobalt, zinc, cadmium and copper. Many of these materials are so called â€Å"persistent toxins† that remain in the environment for a long period of time, even after disposal. Furthermore, an important life cycle consideration is the energy required to extract metals from their respective ores. From an energy perspective, precious metals gold and silver and exceed the impact of copper. In addition, the energy content of glass also has a significant energy footprint, due to the high melt temperatures that are required during manufacturing. Stage Two: Materials Processing Raw materials that go into making cell phones must first be processed before manufacturers can use them. For example, to make the plastic casing, crude oil needs to be combined with natural gas and chemicals. The copper used to make the circuit board and batteries has to be mined from the ground, heated and treated with chemicals and electricity before it can be formed into wires and sheets. Stage Three: Manufacturing The individual parts of a cell phone each go through a manufacturing process. The circuit board is shaped using plastics and fibreglass and then coated with gold plating. The circuits and wires of the circuit board are soldered, glued and coated. The LCD is made with liquid crystals layered between glass or plastic. These layers include two polarized panels, with a liquid crystal solution between them. Light is projected through the layer of liquid crystals and is colorized, which produces the visible image. Batteries have two electrodes (both made from a different metal) and each electrode is touched by a liquid material called electrolytes. When an outlet or another outside electrical source is applied, a chemical reaction between the electrodes and the electrolytes causes an electric current to flow and powers the battery. Stage Four: Packaging and Transportation The transportation process and packaging of cell phones is seen as harmful to the environment. Transporting cell phones for distribution requires the use of fossil fuels for energy, which can contribute to global climate change. While packaging protects products from damage, identifies contents, and provides information, excessive or decorative packaging contributes to the waste that we produce. Packaging consumes valuable natural resources, such as paper (from trees), plastic (from crude oil in the earth), aluminium (from ore), or other materials, all of which use energy to produce and can result in waste. Some packaging, however, can be made from recycled materials. Stage Five: Useful Life You can extend the use of your cell phone by taking good care of it as in protecting it from damage by storing it in a case, avoiding dropping it, and keeping it out of extreme heat and cold and away from water and other liquids. However, the materials that are used to make cell phones can potentially damage the environment and harm people. Therefore, it is important to reuse, recycle or properly dispose cell phones. Reuse: Many organizations, including recyclers, charities, and electronics manufacturers, accept working cell phones and offer them to schools, community organizations, and individuals in need. Reuse gives people, who could not otherwise afford them, free or reduced cost access to new phones and this also extends the useful lifetime of a phone. Recycle: Nowadays, many stores, manufacturers, and recycling centres accept cell phones for recycling. Some cell phones can be fixed and sold as refurbished phones, or parts can be used to fix phones. Some rechargeable batteries can also be recycled, as this way the recovered materials can be used to make new batteries and stainless steel products. Disposal: However, about 40% of cell phones can’t be sold as refurbished cell phones. These cell phones are shredded as well as smelted at a copper refiner. Many metals actually go back to their natural state. This process helps replenish some natural resources and it is called above ground mining. Still, many cell phones are simply thrown in the trash and end up in landfills (buried in the ground) or incinerators (burned). Because cell phones contain metals, plastics, chemicals, and other potentially hazardous substances, they should always be recycled or properly disposed. Phones that are thrown away waste energy and result in the loss of valuable resources. This figure shows the cell phone recycling rate from 2007 to 2010 in the United Stated. Even though sales were the highest in 2010, the recycling rate did not correspond to the sales. 3. ETHICAL ISSUES 1. Energy Conservation The quantity of mobile phone usage increases any environmental impact of this product. Life-cycle analysis conducted by the European Commission shows that energy consumption is the greatest impact, both during manufacture of components and during their usage. Nokia estimated that if 10% of worldwide subscribers would unplug their chargers once their phone is fully charged, the energy saved could to supply 60,000 European homes for one year. Issues like wastage of energy due to overcharging and or mobiles left unplugged even after being fully charged needs to be addressed more. 2. Exploitation & Illegal Trading The material used in the manufacturing of the mobile phones is coltan, a heat resistant material found in the Republic of Congo. In the Coltan, mines there are children that have to work instead of going to school and many reputable companies buy this mineral. Companies have to resort to material provided by controversial circumstances. What is Coltan? Coltan, short for columbite-tantalite is a metallic ore comprising niobium and tantalum. The niobium-dominant mineral in coltan is columbite, and the tantalum-dominant mineral is tantalite. Niobium, whose leading producer in Brazil, is mostly found in the mineral pyrochlore whereas tantalum is extracted from the ore, tantalite and is created by smelting and tin mining in some places. Tantalum mineral is mainly mined in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Democratic Republic of Congo, China, Ethiopia, Mozambique and other central African countries. Coltan is important for manufacturing cell phones because it is in the capacitors that control current flow in the cell phone’s circuit board. When refined, coltan becomes a heat resistant powder, metallic tantalum which has unique properties for storing electrical charge. Mining Coltan In the Coltan is mined by hand in the Congo by groups of men digging basins in streams by scrapping off the surface mud. They then â€Å"slosh† the water around the crater, which causes the Coltan ore to settle at the bottom of the crater where it is retrieved by the miners. A team can â€Å"mine† one kilo of Coltan per day. Most of these miners are children which are subjected to extreme conditions. Therefore, awareness has to be brought to these terrible working conditions by which these child workers are affected. Coltan financing war A recent report by the UN has claimed that all the parties involved in the local civil war have been involved in the mining and sale of Coltan. One report suggested that the neighbouring Rwandan army made US$250 million from selling Coltan in less than 18 months, despite there being no Coltan in Rwanda to mine. The military forces of Uganda and Burundi are also implicated in smuggling Coltan out of Congo for resale in Belgium. A report to the United Nations Security Council has called for a moratorium on purchase and import of resources from the Democratic Republic of Congo, due to the ongoing civil war that has dragged in the surrounding countries. 3. Toxics Waste disposal & Environmental Impact Persistent Bio accumulative toxins Persistent Bio accumulative toxins (PBTs) PBTs are particularly dangerous because they do not degrade over long periods of time, and can easily spread and move between air, water, and soil, resulting in the accumulation of toxins far from the original point source of pollution. Because PBTs accumulate in fatty issue of humans and animals, the toxins are gradually concentrated and are of great risk. Cell phone batteries Rechargeable batteries are rapidly changing as technological advances improve new power sources. Already 60% of rechargeable Batteries sold worldwide are used in cell phones. However, rechargeable currently have toxic constituents such as cadmium, as well as brominated flame-retardants. The total environmental impact from cell phone batteries depends on a batteries material composition as well as on the time cell phones are used before they are discarded. Therefore, many cell phone users replace their batteries at least once before retiring their phones Lead Lead is a highly poisonous metal affecting almost every organ and system in the body. It has been widely used in electronics as the primary method of attaching components to the printed wiring boards. Lead is a toxin to both humans and the environment. It is a common contaminant and can impact entire ecosystems. In humans, it affects the central nervous system, immune and vascular systems, kidneys, and the endocrine system, with serious effects on the development of children’s brains. Lead is also a possible carcinogen. It accumulates in the environment and has very high chronic and acute effects on microorganisms, plants, and animals. 4. Society In past few years, the boom in the usage of mobile phones has tremendously increased, a large percentage of which are children. With the advancement of technology with faster data rate and streaming videos, the youth has been given unlimited access to any contents on web. Restrictions should be established to prohibit children from accessing adult content. Also, mobile phones have been restricted to be used during driving as it has been one of the factors of road accidents. 4. COMPANY COMPARISON: APLLE vs. NOKIA How do these companies deal with environmental impacts? This part of the paper compared two companies in the cellular industry, Apple and Nokia, and how these firms deal with environmental impacts. Although Apple is not entirely a mobile devices producer, its only mobile phone, the iPhone, is very popular and widely sold. Nokia is a well known mobile devices producer, which was dominating the industry for a very long time. However, in past couple years they have faced tremendous difficulties catching up with the technological changes, and did not produce a â€Å"smart phone† in time. Despite their rapid losses in revenues, they still operate in this market, and one of their latest smart phones, the LUMIA 800, is very similar to the iPhone 4S. Both phones have similar hardware preferences and are comprised of similar materials. Now let’s take a look at which company is better off when it comes to sustainable business. Apple iPhone 4S Apple generally says that their products are brominated flame retardant – free, PVC – free, mercury – free, and that the glass they use is arsenic – free. All of these factors conclude in a positive result for Apple. Also, the iPhone releases a minimum of CO2 -gases. In fact, it releases only 1.2g of CO2-gases per hour, whereas a light bulb produces 48.4g per hour. This performance is due to the LED screen, as LED produces the least CO2 of all light sources. Furthermore, Apple has reduced the size of their packages of iPhones by 42%, which not only rapidly reduces the amount of materials necessary, but they can also ship 80% more boxes in each airline shipping container. That saves one 747 flight for every 371,250 units they ship. If you count in the amounts of fuel that is saved and add every aspect of this change together, it is clear that Apple’s Environmental Management is doing incredibly well. Their whole portfolio regarding environment is a p erfect marketing strategy. They claim that all of their products are fully recyclable. This also includes the power conservation, which in this case is a Lithium-Ion battery. This battery is efficient and long lasting, which eliminated the necessity to replace the battery often. Despite this, there is no way the battery can be removed from the phone without unscrewing the body of the phone, for which you need ultra thin screw drivers. Therefore, nobody can actually recycle these batteries themselves, unless they return it to Apple or give their phones to a recycling company. Despite all of these positive factors, Apple still operates this business using very irrational sales policies. They replace their products with twice as strong hardware every year and adapt the software to the new hardware, which makes the old products very slow and ultimately unable to use. This forces the customers to always buy the newest models, which eventually produces a lot of waste. Nokia LUMIA 800 Although Nokia now has very strong environmental reporting, this whole process started only after the crisis the company went through. Despite this, the LUMIA 800 proves to be a very sustainable product. In Nokia’s reports, it is stated that the phone is BFR-free and PVC-free. The company also states that this phone produces 16kg of CO2 emissions per constant 3 years of usage. Equally divided this yields 0.6g per hour of use, however this is not very reliable because it depends on the way these emissions are measured. When it comes to packaging, Nokia still uses the big boxes. After almost 15 years, they still use the same size of the boxes loaded with papers which contribute to a large amount of material waste. All in all, both companies provide very detailed information about their business ethics, and both rank positively. Apple as well as Nokia lay a great emphasis on improving the environmental aspects of their products and processes in each phase of the product life cycl e, from raw material acquisition till the end of the product’s useful life. Both companies state to have reduced their carbon footprint, while introducing new features and constantly improving their products. To conclude, it cannot be said which company performs better as each of them has its advantages and disadvantages. Taking all the above mentioned points into consideration, this paper aims to highlight the ethical issues of mobile phones. When buying a cell phone, most consumers do not even think about what impacts their choice can have on the environment; the same applies to the disposal after the end of life. There are estimated 5 billion cell phone users which should be made more aware of the potential hazards of mobiles. They can cause environmental and health issues, causing CO2-emissions which increase the carbon footprint. Therefore, in conclusion, the choice which cell phone to buy should not only be based on cost and technical factors but also include environmental aspects.

Monday, January 6, 2020

Predicting the Presidential Election with Baseball

Can the winner of the World Series predict who will become President of the United States? If the American League wins, will that mean a win for the Republican candidate? If the National League wins, does that mean a Democratic president for the next four years? A 24-Year Hot Streak Up until  the 1980 presidential election, it appeared that the World Series was an accurate predictor of the presidential race. From 1952 to 1976, whenever the  American League won the World Series, the President to win in that years election was a Republican. If the National League won, then the election went to the Democrat. However,  the Series hot streak ended with the 1980 election. That year, the Philadelphia Phillies, a National League team, won the Series and Ronald Reagan, a Republican, won the White House. Since then, the World Series has accurately predicted the presidential race 5 out of 9 times, giving is a batting average of 0.555 (or round it up to 0.556, if you must). Thats a very good average for baseball but otherwise is not much  better than flipping a coin. Seven-Game Sage The Series is a better predictor of presidents when it goes to seven games. In all of the following election years, the Series got it right. If an American League (AL) team won, so did the Republicans; if a National League (NL) team won, the next president was a Democrat. And the winners were... 1924: Washington Senators (AL) and Calvin Coolidge (R)1940: Cincinnati Reds (NL) and Franklin D. Roosevelt (D)1952 and 1956: New York Yankees (AL) and Dwight Eisenhower (R)1960: Pittsburgh Pirates (NL) and John F. Kennedy (D)1964: St. Louis Cardinals (NL) and Lyndon Johnson (D)1968 and 1972: Detroit Tigers (AL) and Richard Nixon (R) Another (Brief) Streak The Series got hot again in 2000 and accurately predicted the next four presidents, starting with George W. Bush. Actually, it was only two presidents--Bush and Obama, both of whom won reelection--but you cant fault the Series for that. In 2016, it was almost too close to call. The Cubs (National League) won, but so did Trump (Republican). Maybe the Series was banking on the popular vote, which was won by Democrat Hilary Clinton. Darn that electoral college! Other Sure Things? Many Americans swear by patterns and coincidences to help them predict presidential elections. Other examples of predictors from past and present years include the following: If the Washington Redskins win the week of the election, this means a win for the incumbent party. This has held true since 1936.Whichever candidates likeness is on the halloween mask that sells the most will be the next president.  When companies produce competing products, the one that sells the most is supposed to predict the winner. For example, if a company has cups with images of the Republican and Democratic candidates, the one that  outsells the other would be a predictor.If the Dow Jones Average goes up between  August and October, this predicts a win for the incumbent.If the Los Angeles Lakers win the the championship, then the Republican candidate will win. Obviously some of these predictors have a greater basis in reality than others. While most people would say that the Lakers or the Redskins winning is more chance than anything else, the state of the economy does have a huge impact on the presidential election. After all of these predictors, are we any closer to knowing who will win the next presidential election? The answer, of course, is no. However, one thing is fairly certain: to cover their bets, it is more than likely that the Republican candidate will be rooting for the American League team and the Democratic candidate will be cheering on the National League team when the first pitch is thrown in the 2020  World Series.