Monday, September 30, 2019

I want a wife

She goes on to list all the specific things she would want from a wife for her children which Include keeping up with the their doctor appointments, washing the children's loathes and keep them mended at all times, tend to their school for events and plays and to also make sure they have adequate social life with their peers. This Is the ideal wife every man dreams of. She continues on to say that she wants a wife herself so that she could go to school and further her education.I do not agree that she wants a wife because in my opinion, a husband and wife should take turns doing the house chores, tending to the children and working. They made a commitment to one another to always be there and help each other out no matter what circumstances they are put in. My ideal husband would be one of the prince charming from the Disney movies. He would love to wake up next to me every morning and tell me to stay in bed so that he could cook breakfast and bring it to me while I lay in bed.He wou ld be the husband that asks his wife to be a stay at home wife and mom, if we decide to have kids. We would go on trips all over the world together. He would love to go grocery shopping with me and cook with me or majority of the time for me. He would enjoy helping me with the laundry. He would be the kind of husband that would surprise e and plan a dinner date and would take me to a beautiful restaurant and would stop and buy me roses on the way.He would enjoy taking me see a movie or a play. He would play hooky and skip work Just because he wants to spend the day with me. My ideal husband would love being married to me and I would tell him every single day, for the rest of my life, that he Is the love of my life. I would enjoy showing him off to the entire world and for the world to know that he Is all mine. He would help with the kids; feeding them, bathing them, changing them, helping them with emperor, If we decide to have kids.He would be the kind of husband that would enjoy p lanning holiday trips with me to spend the holidays elsewhere, for Just the two of us. He would be the kind of husband that would love me for eternity. My Ideal husband would be my very best friend and would see me as the only human being he would ever love passionately and he would know that I feel the exact same way about him. I want a wife By titivation I Want a Wife In Judy Suffers-Brady essay â€Å"l Want a Wife,† she is explaining why she would what an ideal wife for herself.She starts explaining that the ideal wife will work, cook, which include keeping up with the their doctor appointments, washing the children's and to also make sure they have adequate social life with their peers. This is the single day, for the rest of my life, that he is the love of my life. I would enjoy showing him off to the entire world and for the world to know that he is all mine. He would homework, if we decide to have kids. He would be the kind of husband that would ideal husband would be my very best friend and would see me as the only human

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Power and Dominace

This essay will talk on the definition of privilege and dominance, the application and importance of anti-oppressive practice and the theoretical frame work of Thompson’s Personal, Cultural and Structural (PCS) models of oppression, Burnham’s social ‘GRRAACCEESS’ and Fook’s Micro and Macro approaches. It will also cover my reflection on the article ‘To Address Privilege and Dominance’ and how it influences my social work practice and a reflection on challenges that might arise in my practice.Bailey (1998:109) defines privilege as ‘systematically conferred advantages individuals enjoys by virtue of their membership in dominant groups with access to resources and institutional power that are beyond the common advantages of marginalised citizens’. Tillner (1997:2) defines dominance as ‘a form of identity practice that constructs a difference which legitimises dominance and grants the agent of dominance the illusion of a s uperior identity’. Anti-oppressive practice is the cornerstone of ethical social work practice.It is very important and central to learning in social work practice how to challenge the focused abuse of power and mistreatment of others using specific legislation where applicable and to consider the particular disadvantages resulting from a precise social difference. Dominelli (2002:36) denotes that ‘anti-oppressive practice addresses the whole person and enables the practitioner to relate to his or her client’s social context in a way that takes account of the ‘allocative and authoritative’ that both the practitioner and the client bring to the relationship.Thus, anti oppressive practice takes on board personal, institutional, cultural and economic issues and examines how this impinges on individuals’ behaviour and opportunities to develop their full potentials as persons living within collective entities’. Parker (2007) states that anti -discriminatory approaches highlight disadvantage by association experienced by people with whom social workers practise as the discrimination is directly related to the particular characteristics identified within the legislation.Parker (2007) further explains that anti-oppressive pursue to change systems that upholds the status quo at the expense of carers, service users disadvantaged or marginalised people due to their social division and statuses. Thompson (2006) identifies three levels that can make us better understand the ways oppression or discrimination works in society. These are Personal, Cultural and Structural (PCS) models of oppression. The personal or psychological level is concerned with an individual’s thoughts, feelings, views, attitudes and actions towards a particular group, person, race, gender, sexuality, religion or community.The cultural level centres on ‘shared ways of seeing, thinking and doing’ (Thompson, 2009). That is: cultural levels of interaction within society and shared ways of seeing, thinking and doing, the same values and patterns of thought and behaviour, conformity to social norms and humour as a vehicle for transmitting and reinforcing culture. Culture is also very influential in determining what is regarded as ‘normal’ in any given circumstance. The structural level refers to the network of social divisions and power relations that are so closely associated with them.It also relates to the way in which oppression and discrimination are ‘sewn in’ to the fabric of society or institutionalise. It also relates to the level of social forces; ‘interlocking patterns of power and influence’. Hugman (2009:1142) notes that ‘Fooks approach shows how working at the micro level can be informed by structural understandings of the causes of social needs’. Micro pertains to individual, domestic unit and small groups whilst macro relates to community, organisation a nd policies.It is important to work with macro minded in micro practice as most difficulties faced by service users can easily be identified at that level. Burnham (2005) claims that power and privilege relates to an individual’s gender, race, religion, age, ability, class, culture, creed, ethnicity, education sexuality and sexual orientation. Hence, social workers need to understand their own identities in order to understand the identity of service users. This will facilitate better interaction and good engagement. The aspect of the article that stood out for me is the privileges or advantages enjoyed by males.If we look back in history of time we will see that woman have come a very long way fighting for equality. It is obvious that men enjoy certain privileges based on the fact that they are males as compared to their female counterparts. There are other informed observations that propose that the male dominance in present day society is a function of culturally-installed patriarchy that not only favours men but also oppresses women in society. Robinson (2003) claims that patriarchy enthusiasts would argue that society enjoys most benefit because of male dominance and our respective gender roles.Feminist philosophers and activist are quick to point out the great suffering women have experienced over the years and the discrimination they faced every day in present day society. It is a truism that woman have suffered over the years and are still suffering today due to some aspects of male privilege and dominance in society. It will be of great help to the society if social workers focus on the visible and invisible mechanisms of power, privilege, and influence that males have over females. This will be of great help to fight against inequality and other social ills.There are privileges that that come to some people simply because of the fact that they are males. For example, it will be very difficult for a man be discriminated at his place of work on the ground of his sex. Most females are and have been discriminated against on the ground of their sex. To add to the above, men are paid higher than women doing the same job especially if the employer knows that the man has a family. During recruitment, some employers are very reluctant to recruit female workers as they are concerned that she will need time off for maternity, time to take her child to the hospital and other family commitment.Most service users will do what they are asked to do by a male social worker as compared to a female social worker due to the fact that they are male. Most service users especially when it comes to child protection will be more confrontational and verbal with females as compared to males. I have worked with cases that when it came to difficult and confrontational service users, the cases where transferred to male social workers. As soon as the cases were transferred to a male social worker the service user’s attitude towards the male soc ial worker changed.Another aspect in the article that stood out for me is the privileges enjoyed by heterosexual couples over same sex or gay couple. I have a friends and colleagues who are lesbians and they will remind from time to time that I should understand they are lesbians and it is extremely difficult for them to kiss or hold hands in public like heterosexual couples. I have also worked with service users that are gays and lesbians and I have to always remember to use the term partner when I am referring to their boyfriend or girlfriend.They have also explained to me that they do not feel free to communicate with colleagues or people because they feel that they will not be taken serious or they will be perceived as social misfits. The above mentioned facts about privilege and dominance will certainly influence my social work practice in a positive way. Social work is a profession that provide help and valuable support to people who are facing some forms of oppression and soc ial exclusion and other social ills. It is very essential that social workers empathise with service users as they are in the position of power whilst the service users may sometime feel powerless.It should be recommended that much work be done in order to bridge the gap between male and female. The work should be centred towards extending privilege, power, dominance and influence to women. Men also need to assess themselves in order to address the concerns of open oppression of women. This could also include talks and seminars on issues like domestic violence, workplace disparity and other issues related to gender equality. It will ease communication and understanding when a social worker explains to service users their concerns and what they will do in order to address the concern.Some service users believe that social workers are baby snatchers, community police, a tool for the upper class, a control mechanism and in such situations service users can become abusive and confrontat ional. Social workers need to explain the reasons for their visit and what they will do and what they will not do. This will enable service users and other family members to engage with social workers. Worthy of mention is the fact that social workers should be aware of the area of privilege and dominance and as they can discuss this with people who enjoy certain privileges as a way forward.For example, always hold conversation with men about the privileges enjoyed by them. As a social worker you have to be aware of the challenges that you might face whilst trying to address the issue of privilege and dominance. Advocacy is a means of emancipation and it is often not easy to advocate for certain group of people. It might be very difficult for information to penetrate some communities. Again, some people use religion as a defence for not accepting other people’s values, sexuality and religious in society.The fact that social workers need to be polite, speak cautiously and prof essionally at all times might lead to some service users taking them for granted. It is of immense importance for social workers to reflect on the issue of privilege and dominance as they work with service users who have been marginalised or oppressed. This will serve as emancipatory given the fact that the lack of critical reflection on the privileged flank of social division permits members of dominant group to strengthen their dominance. This will enable social workers to best understand issues revolving around privilege, dominance, power and influence.A good understanding of these issues will pave a good way for social workers to work better with service users and also instigate change when and where it is needed. Reference Bailey, A. (1998) ‘Privilege: Expanding on Marilyn Fry’s oppression’, Journal of Social Philosophy. 29, 3: 104-119. Dominelli. L. (2002) Anti-Oppressive Social Work Theory and Practice. London: Palgrave Macmillan Hugman, R. (2009) But is i t Social Work? Some Reflection of Mistaken Identities. British Journal of Social Work, 39, 1139-1153. Parker, J. (2007) Social Work, Disadvantage by Association and Anti-Oppressive Practice. In P.Burke and J. Parker. (eds. ) Social Work and Disadvantage: Addressing the Roots of Stigma Through Association, London: Jessica Kingsley. Robinson, M (2003) Gender, Power and Privilege. Charles Pfeffer: WetWare, Inc. Rochester, NY. Tillner, G. (1997) ‘Masculinity and Xenophobia: The identity of dominance’. Paper presented to the UNESCO conference, Masculinity and Male Roles in the Perspective of a Culture of Peace, Oslo, Norway. Thompson, N. (2006) Anti-Discriminatory Practice (2006) 4th ed, Palgrave, Macmillian. Thompson, N. (2009) Promoting equality, valuing diversity. Lyme Regis: Russell House Publishing.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Evaluate the Role of Individuals in Bringing About the Changing Influence of the Russian Communist Party, 1905-1945

In the period 1905 to 1945 there was three key individuals that caused significant change in the influence of the Russian Communist Party: Lenin, Stalin and the Tsar. The influence of the party came in two main forms, political and public, which all three leaders changed in different ways. The most important individual in bringing about the change in influence is Vladimir Lenin, who brought about a sudden sharp rise in the party’s popularity. Following the 1917 October Revolution, Lenin became the leader of the Communist Party and greatly increased the party’s political influence with his ‘one party state’. Lenin’s creation of the Politburo in 1919, which was a group of eight high profile party members who influenced any decision being made, demonstrates the party’s increased political influence by showing their domination of governmental bodies. Public support of the party is obvious in the increase of RCP membership, March 1919 to March 1920, from 250,000 to 612,000. This may have been due mainly to Lenin retaining his power through the 1918 civil war. In 1921, Lenin introduced his New Economic Policy, aimed at gaining peace with the peasant class, which resulted in the ending of armed resistance to the communists. This support increased the Russian Communist Party’s (RCP) public influence greatly, backed in rural areas as well as urban working class districts. Due to all these factors, Lenin is the most important individual in changing the influence of the Russian communist party between 1905 and 1945. However, Lenin’s contributions to the party would not of been possible if no for the actions Tsar Nicholas II. In 1905, the public support for the Tsarist regime was extremely low, in all classes and geographic locations, leading to a rapid expansion of the RSDLP (Russian Social Democratic Labor Party) and general strikes throughout; the Russian public began to search for other groups to replace the Tsarists. The Bolsheviks, aka the RSDLP, would later become the RCP and therefore this increase in membership, up to 150,000 in 1905, increased the general influence of the communist party. The decision of the Tsar to order his troops to fire upon peaceful protestors, at Bloody Sunday on 22nd January 1905, dramatically increased the popularity of the RCP and thus the public influence. Although not being the most important, Tsar Nicholas II was a key individual in bringing about the changing influence of the RCP, due to his actions acting as a springboard for Lenin. Following Lenin, Stalin played the biggest party in changing the party influence, both political and socially. During Stalin’s time in power, up to 1945, the influence of the party plummeted significantly, resulting in the RCP having no say in the country’s activities. Due to Stalin’s original ‘facade’ of communism, until reaching power, and his actions once dictator, the party lost the ideological influence of the public. The RCP was in fact fully in charge of the country, however the party was fully controlled by Stalin, thus undermining their influence; this is shown by the ‘Great Purge’ of 1937, where Stalin â€Å"cleaned out’ the party. Thus, during Stalin’s rule, contrary to the facade of power, both the political and social influence of the RCP plummeted to rock bottom. In conclusion, between 1905 and 1945, Lenin caused the greatest change in social influence, shown by bring the part to power with the support of the majority of the classes. Whereas Stalin brought about the biggest fluctuation of political influence for the RCP, from complete control down to no longer being charge of the country but being ‘servants’ for the dictator. However, none of this would have been possible without the role of Tsar Nicholas II, who ‘allowed’ the party to gain public support through his rash decisions. To conclude I believe the role of the individuals in bring about the changing influence of the Russian Communist Party, between 1905 and 1945, was extremely important, with Vladimir Lenin taking pole position.

Friday, September 27, 2019

Predatory lending Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Predatory lending - Essay Example ose borrowers with little knowledge on money matters especially those owning expensive assets that can be repossessed in case the borrower fails to fulfill the terms of the loan (Frank 2009). For example, a borrower may be required to read and sign a lot of documents which would bind him to the loan agreement. As a result of lack of skills and trusting the lender, he may assume that all the details in the documents are correct and thus sign them without interpreting the whole information. As such, the unscrupulous lender may take advantage of the situation to add more terms on the signed documents so as to gain more from the borrower. If this happens, the borrower may not have the ability to challenge the discrepancies. If it occurs that the borrower cannot pay the loan, his assets may be seized by the lenders whose main interest would be to sell them at a profit. The recent mortgage debt crises can be attributed to predatory lending. People with high hopes of owning homes found themselves in a situation which was caused by malpractices of brokers whose intension was to benefit from the deals (Frank 2009). To achieve their objectives, the brokers issued loans with high interest rates to unsuspecting borrowers who later became unable to pay the loans. In order to qualify for a loan, a person is supposed to have the ability to repay either in cash or in kind. These brokers managed to benefit from the mortgage lending due to the government’s failure to regulate their activities (Frank 2009). If proper regulation was done, the unfair deals made to the borrowers would have been noted thus avoiding the consequences that arose later which had a negative effect on the economy. The mortgage crises can also be attributed to the fact that mortgage lenders failed to acknowledge this policy and went ahead to give loans to people who were not qualified (Luhby 2009). This resulted to bad debts which could only be solved by reacquiring the houses leaving the borrowers without

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Biography of the Austrian Artist and Symbolist Gustav Klimt Essay

Biography of the Austrian Artist and Symbolist Gustav Klimt - Essay Example Here he sharpened his artistic skills following in the footsteps of his mentor and favorite artist, Han Makart. After graduating from the school in 1883, Gustav worked jointly with his brother Ernst and Franz Matsch a co-student. They opened a studio where they displayed art from other artists such as Laufberger’s graffiti designs for the Art Historical Museum. In 1886 they received a prize for their design for the decoration of the staircases of Burgtheater2. The painting depicted who’s who in ordinary life in Vienne. Soon after their career kicked off they separated and went separate ways. Gustav’s first professional job was when he was asked to make a painting of Ringstrasse. At this time Vienna was in the Ringstrasse Era a period when the city was undergoing great change3. The Vienna city was built as one massive ring, and arts were being patronized as never before by the bourgeois class. The city was entering an age of industrialization, science and research . However, it still lacked a revolutionary spirit to the arts. In1883he received a nomination for the professor at Vienna Academy but he was rejected. 1888 saw Klimt receive the award for Golden Order of the Merit from Emperor Franz Joseph 1 of his native country. He then became an honorary member of University of Vienna and University of Munich both of which he never attended. This was in recognition of his art projects within and around Vienna. Four years later his brother Ernst and his father died and it is not clear whether these deaths were the main cause for his new rebellious and experimental style of art or his earlier rejection to the professorship at the Academy of Fine Arts by the Ministry of Culture. Since then his art changed. Gustav replaced his earlier classical iconography and replaced it with strong sensual themes. This was first depicted in his painting of 1894when he was appointed to paint some portraits to hang in the dome of University of Vienna.

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

Ethnography - Essay Example On the other hand, other scholars assert that some cultural studies have theorized about the significance of ethnography to an understanding of media and cultural practices. They continue arguing that they have reached an almost paralyzing position in which the political and epistemological debates concerning the function of the researcher have restricted rather than endorsing the production of ethnographic media studies. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to study the strengths and limits of ethnography as a methodology for the study of media institutions with reference to specific ethnographic studies conducted by other researchers (Coman & Rothenbuhler 2005, p.141). Additionally, the research about audiences in media emphasizes on methodological pluralism through examining a sequence of approaches ranging from media ethnography, research on the reception of media, surveying the audience, and carrying out experiments on audience studies. The cultural understanding of ethnogr aphy Ethnographic studies can twirl predetermined ideas and misapprehension regarding a specific culture into positive conceptions, likewise, they can also lend trustworthiness to other elucidation from studies regarding a specific culture that have been done in the ancient times. Additionally, ethnographies can grant people a better comprehension and approach into their own culture, but the ethnographic study of a culture consumes a lot of time. For instance, before an anthropologist submerges in a culture's natural environment, he has to be familiar with the language along with the respective culture of that community. Culture is important for society and individual since the routine activities are based on the simple unwritten rules of participation in social interactions, therefore, ethnographers require proper investigation and research, and may take a long period making it very dangerous for an anthropologist who does not quickly comprehend a culture's traditions and forbidden practices. In addition to that, an anthropologist has to acquire time and obtain the confidence and respect of a culture's people, as well as seeking an okay to carry out an ethnographic research before proceeding (Coman & Rothenbuhler, 2005, p.141). The strengths of ethnography The benefit to employing ethnography to fit into the audience studies relies on its likelihood to offer both a domestic and a communal environment of television reception among the diverse groups in the society (Murchison 2013, p.204). Ethnography facilitates a comprehension of the manner in which the reception framework can influence the interpretation of the message by viewers, individually and in groups, conversely, it also permit the inspecting of the phenomena not only in its immediate social, political, and economic situation, but also in a bigger chronological structure. Moores argue that the media industries should provide audiences with a stable â€Å"stream† of figurative equipment to help audiences understand and approach their logic of self. These pictures and

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Corruption and Integrity Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Corruption and Integrity - Research Paper Example Its major religion is Islam (Sunni) with an estimated literacy rate of 38% (http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0107979.html). Somalia is located in the Horn of Africa lying along the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean. "It is bounded by Djibouti in the northwest, Ethiopia in the west, and Kenya in the southwest. In area it is slightly smaller than Texas. Generally arid and barren, Somalia has two chief rivers, the Shebelle and the Juba." According to records, in the years January 1991 until August 2000, it had no stable government. "A fragile parliamentary government was formed in 2000, but it expired in 2003 without establishing control of the country. In 2004, a new transitional parliament was instituted and elected a president" (http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0107979.html). Somalia has a GDP/PPP approximately $5.575 billion with a per capita of $600. Its real growth rate is 2.6% and there is no inflation rate record because "businesses print their own money". Despite its vast land area, it has only an arable land of 2% that is produces bananas, sorghum, corn, coconuts, rice, sugarcane, mangoes, sesame seeds, beans; cattle, sheep, goats; and fish. Its labor force is 3.7 million with very few are skilled laborers (http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0107979.html).. Sharing the rank of second most corrupt country with Myanmar is Iraq. ... Its major religion is Islam. Its major source of income is oil with very little agriculture due to its vast desert land (http://www.infoplease.com/country/profiles/iraq.html). Iraq maintains a constitutional democracy with a federal system of government. "The executive branch is made up of the Presidency Council (one president, two deputy presidents) and a Council of Ministers (one prime minister, two deputy prime ministers, and 34 cabinet ministers)." Its legislative branch is made up of an elected Council of Representatives and a Federation Council. There are 275 members of the Council of Representatives. The judicial branch is independent (http://www.infoplease.com/country/profiles/iraq.html). On the other hand, Denmark shares the least corrupt country with New Zealand and Sweden. Its government is parliamentary, headed by a Queen and a Prime Minister. Its industrialized market economy is based on materials imported through foreign trade maintaining a liberal trade policy within the European Union. About 1% of its gross national product (GNP) is given to foreign aid to less developed countries. This is only a manifestation that Danish economy is high and stable. In addition, all citizens of Denmark receive basic health care and real poverty is out of place in this country (http://www.infoplease.com/country/profiles/denmark.html). Denmark is an active member of International Organizations such as the: United Nations; NATO; the EU; Nordic cooperation; the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund; the World Trade Organization (WTO); the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE); the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD); the Council of

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Health and environmental effects of diesel pollution Essay

Health and environmental effects of diesel pollution - Essay Example Some of these particles are often directly released into the atmosphere while others are formed when they are mixed and react with other pollutants in the atmosphere. These particles often come in various sizes. Fine Particles (PM2.5). These are also known as fine particles and usually measure up to 2.5 microns in diameter. These are seen in almost all sources of fuel combustion, from automobiles, wood burning, industrial plants, and power plants. With their diminutive configurations, they are likely to deeply penetrate the lungs and respiratory system. Where large concentrations of this fine particulate matter are formed, a haze is usually apparent. Coarse Particles (PM10). These are particles which measure about 2.5 to 10 microns and are derived from various sources like natural wind, erosion of soil, or airborne residue from industrial plants. These particles are often visible to the naked eye, and can appear collectively as haze, dust, or soot. Particle pollution always presents a significant risk, however, the risk is usually greater: During calm weather when pollution usually accumulates or builds up In and around factories, especially during busy hours and along near busy roads. When smoke is emitted from wood stoves, fireplaces, forest fires, and other burning vegetation. Health Effects of Particle Pollution & Who is Most at Risk The lungs and the heart are usually affected during particulate pollution. Studies suggest that the initial response to short-term exposure to particle pollution is coughing, along with minor throat irritation. Where larger particles are involved, the lung function is often reduced, along with the rate of respiration and cardiovascular function. Various studies have already been carried out associating fine particles with various health issues, including: Asthma and chronic bronchitis Acute respiratory symptoms, with coughing and chest tightness Decreased lung function, usually felt as shortness of breath Heart attacks Prematur e death among individuals with an existing heart or lung disease These conditions often cause issues with work and school activities. Moreover, the possibility of emergency room visits and admissions is often increased with these conditions. As for longer-term exposures, more health issues often become apparent, life expectancy is often reduced, and other health issues often become exacerbated. The following "sensitive groups" are often vulnerable to health issues with exposure to high levels of particulates: Children, since their lungs are still in the development stage Elderly, especially those already suffering from cardiovascular diseases Those who are asthmatic or who are already suffering from any respiratory problems. In addition, healthy adults who experience respiratory difficulties when exposed to fine particulates may also be affected by the pollution since they are likely to breathe deeply and exert more during exercise or work. Environmental Effects of Particle Pollutio n As was mentioned previously, significant amounts of coarse and fine particles usually create a haze which can affect visibility and compromise visual range to a significant extent. Airborne particles and droplets also usually remain in the air for long periods of time and sometimes even travel great distances. As they settle in a particular place, they may cause damage to surfaces; they can acidify lakes and other bodies of water, and cause significant damage to plants and animals. Nitrogen Dioxide

Monday, September 23, 2019

Optical isomerism in Thalidomide Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Optical isomerism in Thalidomide - Essay Example The tragedy which occurred due to thalidomide use led to very stringent testing requirement for pesticides and drugs before licensing. Initially, thalidomide was prescribed as effective painkiller and tranquilizer for insomnia, colds, coughs, and headaches. It was a very effective antiemetic inhibiting morning sickness, and this resulted into many pregnant women using thalidomide in order relieve their pregnancy symptoms. The relationship between the drug and defects in birth were suspected by Australian obstetrician, McBride William, and the German pediatrician, Lenz Widukind. This was later proven in 1961 by Lenz. Approximately 2500 thalidomide babies were born in Germany. The United States Congress constituted laws demanding safety tests during pregnancy before approving any drug. Other nations have passed similar laws too. This has seen thalidomide not sold or prescribed in several countries for decades1. The severe thalidomide impacts led to strict tests being carried out. The d rug was tested as a one single agent for treating multiple myeloma because of its ant angiogenesis activity during the research trials. Many studies have illustrated that thalidomide in combination with dexamethasone increases the rate of survival of the patients of multiple myeloma2. However, commercially produced drug differed from the one used during the research trials, and this resulted into other thalidomide effects. The commercially produced drug differed from that used in research trials in that during commercial productions, thalidomide was produced in combination with dexamethasone and melphalan, which is today the regimen most common for the patients who are newly diagnosed with multiple myeloma. This has seen the development of other side effects such as fatigue, polyneuropathy, venous thromboembolism (VTE), skin rush, or blood clot, which may result into myocardial infarction or stroke. Several scientists have made reviews on VTE relationship with thalidomide in multipl e myeloma diagnosed patients, and the results show that thalidomide administered without prophylaxis leads to a high rate of VTE (26%). Owing to this high VTE rates with thalidomide combined with doxorubicin or dexamethasone, which is commercially produces, a black box warning was given in 2006 in the United States to the thalidomide package showing that multiple myeloma patients receiving thalidomide-dexamethasone bay concurrently benefit from thromboembolism prophylaxis or aspirin. There has been production of other thalidomide derivatives such as lenalidomide and bortezomib3. The presence of optical isomers severely affects fetal development in pregnant women. Tests from the laboratory after the thalidomide disaster indicated that in some animals the 'R' isomer was an effective sedative, but the 'S' enantiomer was tetragenic. The presence of the optical isomers may also lead to phocomelia which is characterized by shortened limbs, or even complete absence. In addition, fetus may develop hypo plastic or external ear abnormalities, facial palsy, malfunctions of genitourinary and gastrointestinal tract, or even complete absent bones. Approximately 40% of such fetuses die after birth4. Conclusion To sum up, there is no acute toxicity in thalidomide and a fatal overdose may be impossible virtually. As a component of thalidomide, Citalopram has severe effects with the dosage of thalidomide. This is because Citalopram and peripheral

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Personal Definition of Honesty Essay Example for Free

Personal Definition of Honesty Essay Whats the definition of honesty? The one in Websters Dictionary says that it is: The quality or fact of being honest; uprightness and fairness; truthfulness, sincerity, or frankness; freedom from deceit or fraud (Honesty). However, each person may define honesty differently. Everybody has his/hers own definition that varies upon his/her beliefs. Some think of it as a main rule of their life, but still tell a little white lie once in a while. Others can not even identify themselves with honesty. The truth is that being honest is extremely hard and not lying at all is impossible. Everybody lies, even politically significant people responsible for the nations well being, who are viewed by the society as icons of trust. People lie on a daily basis, in fact sometimes not realizing that they do it so often; it is second nature. Some of the lies may be innocent. For instance, some may lie not to hurt somebodys feelings. A lack of honesty would not be such a big problem, though, if that were the point where it ends. Some people consider that telling a little white lie doesnt hurt anything, but still get annoyed and irritated when somebody lies to them. If they expect others to be honest with them why cant they pay back in the same way? Usually humans lie for personal gain and self-interest. For instance, some may lie because they are ashamed of the things they have done and do not want or are afraid to face the consequences. A good example here is Bill Clinton, who in 2004 lied about his affair with Monica Lewinsky to both the nation and the grand jury. People hide, ignore and omit the facts. They care less what effect it may have on others. In this case they arent just dishonest and selfish but also show a lack of integrity. On the other hand, people may lie because they want to be a part of group. As Stephen L. Carter writes in his article The Insufficiency of Honesty, integrity may be often a fake honesty (106). For example, humans lie to impress somebody or put up facades to look better in others` eyes. They agree with other peoples statements, even if those vary from their own beliefs, simply because they want to be accepted. Furthermore, throughout history people could experience dishonesty from many, if not all U.S. presidents. For instance, Richard Nixon lied because he was trying to save his presidency, which was imperiled by his misdeeds. Franklin Delano Roosevelt misled the country over things like Lend-Lease in order to advance a policy he thought would save the world, but which he knew would be difficult to sell politically ( Cannon 57). During World War II in 1944, President Roosevelt lied to the public about his health condition, simply to hide his weakness from opponents. All of that proves that even people, to whom public trust is given, in the hope of better future of the country, arent any different from regular people. As Carl M. Cannon writes in his article Untruth and Consequences Presidents lie because they are human (58). Moreover, in a contemporary political world, it is difficult to distinguish the truth from a lie. For example, taking under consideration the war in Iraq, people are constantly confused with the news delivered to them. The Republicans say that everything is under control and without a doubt U.S. is winning the war with terrorism. On the other hand, Democrats talk about the unquestionable failure of the American army and government, as well as undisputable chaos it has caused in the Middle East. Those two versions prove that one of the sides is definitely lying. In this case the lack of honesty is very high and lives of U.S. soldiers as well as prosperity of the country might be at stake. Politicians should put aside their personal-interests and do what is right, because the consequences of their dishonesty may be too high to bear. Even though the definition of honesty here differs from the one in dictionary, many people will agree with it. Everybody knows from the experience how hard it is to go at least a day without telling a lie; it is impossible. All the people are built from the same mud; they all lie. It doesnt matter who a person is or what he/she does. Some may be more sensitive about it and would rather have a clean conscience, when others will keep lying without thinking twice. But everybody has to remember that the bigger the lie coming out of their mouth, the larger the consequences they will have to face in the future. Because as my mom used to say, a lie has short legs; one cant go far or gain much by lying, and if so it will be only temporary. Works Cited Cannon, Carl M. Untruth and Consequences. The Atlantic. Jan/Feb. 2007: 56-67. Carter, Stephen L. The Insufficiency of Honesty. 50 essays: A Portable Anthology. 2nd ed. Ed. Samuel Cohen. Boston: Bedford/ St. Martins, 2007. 104-111. Honesty. Websters online Dictionary. 2007. Websters Dictionary. 29 Jan 2007. http:www.websters-online-dictionary.org/definition/honesty.

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Bringing Technology To Early Childhood Education

Bringing Technology To Early Childhood Education There have been studies conducted on bringing technology to early childhood education. There has been seen benefits on introducing technology to early education but they were able to see some difficulties and disadvantages in doing so. The researcher is trying to find out the different advantages and disadvantages and see which outweighs, benefits or the shortcomings. The function of technology in early childhood education, birth to age eight, is a contentious matter. Parents and educators are concerned regarding possible benefits or damages to young children. Critics argue that technology in schools wastes time, money, and childhood itself by getting a move on the pace and cutting down on important learning practices (Cordes Miller, 2000; Healy, 1998). Supporters propose that children should have the benefits that modern technologies can offer. Considerate observers are worried that at the same time as exciting and potentially valuable things are occurring with children and computers, we may not be utilizing these tools in the paramount ways, or acquiring the results we expect (Healy, 1998; Kleiman, 2000). The topic is from time to time presented as a simple question: Should my students, my children, make use of computers or not? While this query is valid, the questions are broader and more complicated. Computers are by now in homes and classrooms, and little children are using them. Additional helpful question is what are suitable and important uses of technology with children? Furthermore, given that technology is being used, how can teachers take advantage of the capacity of these tools to improve childrens learning and growth, while keeping away from possible problems? Research proposes suitable and efficient uses of technology in early learning and offers guidance in deciding on the tools and making the environment necessary for profitable technology use. Studies point to how technology can be used to hold up and promote the growth and education of preschool and primary age children. The significant factor is a fair method to technology in learning, with considerate preparation to give for the significant needs of early days. Vygotsky (1978) states that, childrens learning begins long before they attend school and that any learning a child encounters in school always has a previous history. According to the Harvard University Scientific Council on the Developing Child (2007) the quality of a childs early environment and the availability of appropriate experiences at the right stages of development are crucial in determining the strength or weakness of the brains architecture, which, in turn, determines how well he or she will be able to think and to regulate emotions. It is important to get an understanding of the preschool environment about the way the children learn and that the social and intellectual characteristics of teachers and parents have an influence on the children (Vygotsky, 1978). Vygotsky (1978) further argues that there is a difference in the way preschool and school children learn. Children are born as being inquisitive, energetic, passionate motivated, risk taking, thinking and do the impossible, creative, can see the end product, try over and over again and can learn through mistakes (Peel Prinsloo, 2001: 5). Conezio French (2002) states that many early childhood teachers are hesitant about introducing science in their classrooms, often because of their own unpleasant science education experiences. Statement of the problem: Is it beneficial when technology is injected to children in early education? How does technology, being part of the curriculum, become an improvement in teaching methods? Does technology help children build interest to learning? How does this help the children in being participant in school? Is it the right timing for children aged 6 and below to learn with technology around them? What are its implications in terms of learning? Literature Review Studies show that when computers are located in the classroom, childrens developmental gains from using appropriate software are significantly greater than when they are in a computer lab (Davis Shade, 1999). Reasons cited include: Limited exposure to computers when they are placed in labs The tendency to use drill-and-practice software in labs, while more tool-oriented software is used in classrooms Less collaboration and peer tutoring in lab settings Other studies offer additional support for locating computers in the classroom: Using a computer laboratory pulls children out of their usual setting and takes away other rich options (Bredekamp Rosegrant, 1994) Using a program as whole-group instruction, common in a lab setting, denies the computers power as an individual teaching tool (Bredekamp Rosegrant, 1994) Computers within the classroom enable children to use or not use them as they wish (Davidson Wright, 1994) As detailed in the Social and Emotional Development section, arranging the classroom to allow and encourage conversation around the computers is essential in creating opportunities for student interaction. High-quality pedagogy and rigorous learning aims should direct the option of materials and tools, as well as technology, to be utilized in learning activities (Bredekamp Rosegrant, 1994; Davis Shade, 1999). Whatever materials or tools are best suited to the activity will be used; sometimes computers are the best tool for the job, and sometimes they are not; the secret is knowing the difference (Davis Shade, 1999, p. 237). Computers are powerful tools that, as with other technologies, are most beneficial when used as a natural part of the learning experience. This includes: Integrating computers into the classroom environment Using them as a part of the ongoing curriculum Applying their use to real problems for a real purpose (Davis Shade, 1994) Written language, like oral language, is learned by doing things with words in the real world, using language for a purpose (Novick, 1998). Early childhood classrooms encourage written literacy by providing materials to use in pretend play, and by encouraging children to express themselves in writing (IRA NAEYC, 1998). Studies indicate that word-processing software encourages writing, and leads to increased motivation and improvement in writing skills. Computers and writing programs can be used with preschool aged children to explore written language, and their use can be successfully integrated into process-oriented writing programs as early as first grade or kindergarten (Clements Nastasi, 1993). Such software: Provides critical support, or scaffolding, for young writers, enabling them to perform tasks they could not perform by themselves (Clements Nastasi, 1993) Allows children to compose longer and more complex stories and worry less about mistakes (Davis Shade, 1994) Facilitates positive attitudes toward writing and word processing among children from kindergarten through primary grades (Clements Nastasi, 1993) Encourages students to write more, more effectively, and with greater fluency (Apple Classrooms of Tomorrow, 1995) Helps children gain confidence in their writing and increases motivation to write more when using computers than with paper and pencil (Clements Nastasi, 1993) Computers also provide students a private place for practice while learning, without fear of public failure. Especially during the primary grades, when children are expected to acquire an acceptable level of mastery of mathematical content and literacy, the computer can serve as a supportive tool for those children who have more than average difficulty succeeding (Bredekamp Rosegrant, 1994, p. 59). Preschool teachers bring experience with children, knowledge of the limits imposed by the curriculum frameworks and flow of life in kindergartens. They also need to master a number of practices and to be aware of preschool technology experiences and their importance in subsequent school development. They also have to be adaptive learners. One of the teachers role is to gain access to the childrens ideas about technology and to make the right decisions on how they can be developed. The main goal of education should be seen in the development of intellectual and creative abilities of students. Piaget (1929) worked on how childrens ideas develop. Recent studies (Raper et al 1987, Reiss 1993) show that effective teaching and learning depend on childrens existing ideas and subsequent good teaching. So, the way teachers accept and teach technology is very important to young children. New Technologies (NT) provide new opportunities to the teaching and learning process. Researchers (Clements 1994, Shade et al 1990) have shown the gains and the obstacles of the use of technology in education. It is noticeable, that they all agree that technology is a useful tool in the teaching process when it is not misused (Aubrey 1994, Campbell et al. 1992, Shayer et al 1981). As preschool educators become active participants in a technological world, they need training and support to find ways to incorporate technology into their classrooms. So, education on NT to preschool teachers is an important factor of applying technology to childrens classroom. Young children have needs that are real and different from those of older children and adolescents. Children from birth to age eight are learning rapidly, using all of their senses and their entire bodies to take in sensations and experience the world around them. During this period of their lives they learn through their play and exploration across five essential developmental dimensions (Kagan, Moore, Bredekamp, 1995). These dimensions include: Social and Emotional Development. The ability to form and sustain relationships gives meaning to learning experiences. Responsive interactions provide a sense of well-being that enables children to form attachments with others and participate positively in educational activities. Language Development. Language empowers children to participate in both the cognitive and affective parts of the educational program. Experience with written and oral language provides children with the tools to interact with others, and to represent their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Physical Well-Being and Motor Development. A childs health is connected to preparedness for and performance in learning activities. Healthy children are able to focus on and actively engage in experiences crucial to the learning process. Cognition and General Knowledge. Children need opportunities to interact with the people and objects in their environment, and to learn from their surroundings. Experiences and interactions with peers and adults allow children to construct knowledge of patterns, understand relationships between objects or events, and learn ways to solve problems. Approaches Toward Learning. Children can be successful learners in many different ways. By understanding the predispositions and learning styles that influence a childs response to learning opportunities, adults can encourage and increase engagement. Childrens activities and experiences with computers will evolve over time as they grow and develop. Very young children often use computers with help from an adult or older child. As they mature children use computers more independently, and the teachers role moves from guidance toward monitoring and active facilitation. Young children learn through exploration and discovery. If computers are used with children in kindergarten, preschool, or child-care settings, the computer should be one of many activity choices they can explore (Bredekamp Rosegrant, 1994). During choice time, for example, a computer center may be one of several options. Children frequently use computers for short periods, then become interested in another activity. Three- to five-year-olds generally spend about the same amount of time at a computer as they do on other activities such as playing with blocks or drawing. They are more interested and less frustrated when an adult is present, and much of the computer use will be facilitated or mediated by the teacher, which is consistent with best practice at this level (Clements Nastasi, 1993). For this age the value of the computer is in its open-ended use, not in creating a product (Davidson Wright, 1994). The teachers role is to create an environment in which children become aware and explore, and then act to support their exploration and inquiry in many different ways. Software programs for this age group should be limited in number and appropriate for childrens skill level and the intended use. As children become more able to read and write on their own they are not limited to icons and pictures on the screen for understanding. More opportunities for independent use become available with increasing language and literacy skills. For example, simple word processors become important educational tools as children experiment with written language. The teachers role is to set up the environment and activities, matching technology use to the curriculum as well as to the childrens needs and interests. The teacher is less involved in directing the activities, and more involved in monitoring student activities, intervening as necessary to guide and pose questions that encourage thinking. Research Procedure (Methods) The researchers plan to have an evaluation on the students before and after the technology is integrated in the curriculum. The evaluation before introducing technology will help us determine the effect on the performance of the students. The researchers will be asking help from different teachers and well-known specialists on early childhood education. Population and Sample One classroom, which is composed of 30 students, will be the evaluated. The 30 students will be subdivided to different level of thinking and characteristics. This will be enough for the researchers to have an accurate finding and results. Research Design The design of the study is a correlation research since it is intended to determine: first, the relationship of technology to the augmentation of the performance of the students; second, the effectiveness of the incorporating in the curriculum the technology on increasing good competency in terms of grades and performance. It is also a qualitative study for the researchers will be conducting interviews regarding on the attentiveness of the students due to the introduction of technology mixed with their program. Instrumentation and Data Collection The researchers visited the [Insert name of University Library or City Library] for journals, articles and studies needed for the research paper. The researchers gathered time-series data from different physical training institutions to assure of its validity and consistency. The primary data will be gathered using quantitative method, as this is best useful with questionnaires. The use of quantitative method will be appropriate for the research because the results in the questionnaires consist of numerical information, mostly based from the ratings included in the questions. Quantitative methods are used to provide reference to numeric calculations and are often used with questionnaires that have a specific goal and a target to achieve. This is helpful in the research, and its instigation in the process needs to be further culminated so that the problem is solved with efficiency and precision. In gathering data, the researcher would like to clear certain ethical issues that might hinder the processing of data. First, confidentiality will be kept at all costs. As the main reason why questionnaires will be used in the research is for the respondents to feel secure and to be assured that their answers will not be related to who they are. There may be instances wherein the respondent will divulge information that will be detrimental to the company, or to its competitors, depending on the case. Hence, there is a better chance at more responsive respondents if they can be assured of their confidentiality. Second, the Data Protection Act will be followed at all costs. The compliance with the act will be transparently said to the respondents so that they are further assured that anything they say in response to the questions asked them will only be used for the benefit of the research and not in any other practices. It should also be clear to the researcher that any information regarding the respondents cannot be released to anyone who is not immediately connected with the research unless permission from the subject respondent has been secured beforehand. Third, the research must always bear in mind the objectives of the study and never stray away from them. A researcher who has no definite purpose in doing the research is going nowhere and is exerting effort in a research that is not delimited properly and punctually. The purpose of the research is explicitly stated at the beginning of the research and is implied in every step of the realization of the research so as to not delineate the researcher from his goals. Lastly, the researcher must opt to practice objectivity. As the researcher, he is expected to keep an open-minded approach to the topic, keeping from his mind and personal bias in the subject matter or on the people involved. The reason for doing research is to test existing information, validate, prove or disprove existing ideas, or to test the limits of a certain prospect. Given this simple definition, it is clearly seen that in no form is the personal opinions of the researcher expected to hinder in the subject. Any act that might be biased or subjective will hint of the researchs failure to achieve its goals. Planned Method of Analysis The researchers plan to analyze the different test conducted through constant evaluation of the trainers and how they perform. There will be a weekly evaluation in terms of how the training last, and the effect of it to their performance in the field. The performance in the field will be evaluated by the players stamina, body agility, and resistance. Conclusion Technology is an instrument that can offer another way for children to study and add up to their world. Computers can be utilized in expanding suitable ways that are helpful to children, or they can be misrepresented, just as blocks or any other resources can be tainted. And just as pencils do not substitute crayons but rather offer additional methods of expression, computers, or cameras or some other varieties of technology, do not substitute other tools but increase the selection of tools accessible to children to search, generate, and communicate. When used appropriately by skilled teachers, technology can support and extend learning in valuable ways and can increase educational opportunities for children. The key is finding the balance, knowing how to align the elements of a healthy childhood with the unique capabilities offered by technology. Preschool teachers bring experience with children, knowledge of the limits imposed by the curriculum frameworks and flow of life in kindergartens. They also need to master a number of practices and to be aware of preschool technology experiences and their importance in subsequent school development. They also have to be adaptive learners. All teachers found the course very interesting and worked on computers very hard. At the end of the course they learned how to write an essay on a computer and they became comfortable and confident in using computers. The problem they had to face at the beginning of the course was that they were not familiar with computers and NT. For some of them it was their first time to learn how to use a computer. Another problem they had with computers was the linguistic one. Some teachers did not know English very well and others knew foreign languages other than English. So, they had to learn at least the basic English terminology we use for computers before using the Internet. At the end of the course, technology proved for these teachers, as a tool for communication and collaboration amongst them and also a tool for teaching children. Telecommunications and the Internet enabled preschool teachers to obtain information about children in kindergartens from around the world and interacted with distant experts and peers. They collaborated on classroom projects and they learned how to use computers and technology in the future. Pedagogical considerations behind the course have shown that teachers become confident using NT when they practice on them at least once or twice a week. So we can conclude that technology is a powerful tool for professional development.