The Effects of Video Games on Society Essay Example for Free

The Effects of Video Games on Society Essay Perhaps the most positive way video games are being used these days are in the classroom. Video games challenge students to think and solve problems (Vlasak and Ranaldo 36). These educational games must take on an approach that involves gaming and must also be â€Å"fun. † Suggestive evidence includes that spatial visualization skills improve with video game playing. These skills are the ability to rotate mentally, manipulate and twist two and three dimensional objects. Students with a high degree of spatial visualization are high achievers in mathematics and science. Improving spatial visualization may have a corresponding effect on student mathematics (Dorman 133). Students these days are referred to as the Net generation. Their environment is saturated by media as they spend an average of 6. 5 hours per day engaged with various types of media (Annetta 233). Creating educational games that are centered on human interaction is no easy task. Designing today’s educational video games includes blended motivation and self-regulated learning (Annetta 233). Educational games enable students to learn by doing, experience situations first-hand, and role-playing. â€Å"Gee (2003a) stated that the practice of learning a video game is an enculturation practice that involves not only learning the mechanics of game play, but learning how to negotiate the context of play, the terms and practices of a game’s players, and the design choices of its developers† (Annetta 233). Studies for the negative effects of video games on society highly outweigh the positives. Research has shown increases in aggressive behavior associated with the amount of time teenagers are allotted to play video games. This rise in aggression seems to be due to the parents not regulating the amount of time teenagers play their video games. In a study, teenage girls played video games for an average of 5 hours a week, where boys played for an average of 13 hours a week. The study also showed that teens who played violent video games for extended periods of time are more prone to aggressive behavior, teacher/student confrontation, fights with peers and a decline in academic achievement (Fritz 1). Tips from the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) include managing your teen’s media consumption, limit how long and how often they play video games, and know the rating of your teen’s video games. â€Å"Video games share much in common with other pursuits that are enjoyable and rewarding, but may become hazardous in certain contexts. Parents can best protect their children by remaining engaged with them and providing limits and guidance as necessary† (Harvard Mental Health Letter 3). Boys, more often than girls, tend to play video games for a means to compete and win. The violent games may be similar to the rough-housing that boys are prone to when growing up (Harvard Mental Health Letter 3). In conclusion these video games represent a fad that is extremely unlikely to fade anytime soon. In fact, technology is something that is getting more advanced every day. With advancing technological video games comes more opportunities for positive and negative effects on society as a whole. The key to this advancing technology is education. Get out there and educate yourself about the possibilities of video games.

Travel and Tourism Essay Example for Free

Travel and Tourism Essay Air cabin crew members make sure that airline passengers have a comfortable, safe and pleasant flight. Air cabin crew member must be polite, well-spoken and have a positive approach. Main duties responsibilities The job of a pilot comes with heavy responsibility and personal commitment. There is more to the role than just flying the plane, which has to be done safely and economically, and tasks can typically include: ensuring all information on the route,  ensuring all safety systems are working carrying out pre-flight checks on the navigation and operating systems communicating with air traffic control before take-off. Tasks may vary slightly depending on whether it is a short or long-haul flight and the size of the team you are working in. However, they typically include: Attending a pre-flight briefing, during which air cabin crew are assigned their working positions for the upcoming flight. Crew are also informed of flight details, the schedule and if there are passengers with any special requirements, such as diabetic passengers, passengers in wheelchairs or the number of infants on board; carrying out pre-flight duties, including checking the safety equipment, ensuring the aircraft is clean and tidy, ensuring that information in the seat pockets is up to date and that all meals and stock are on board; welcoming passengers on board and  directing them to their seats; informing passengers of the aircraft safety procedures and ensuring that all hand luggage is securely stored away; checking all passenger seat belts and galleys are secure prior to take-off; making announcements on behalf of the pilot and answering passenger questions during the flight; serving meals and refreshments to passengers; Entry requirements: Qualifications You would usually start your career as a first officer after gaining at least an Airline Transport Pilots License. This is first awarded as a part time ATL, which allows you to fly as a first officer. When you have completed enough flying hours you can apply for a full ATPL and qualify as an airline captain. You must be at least 21 years old to have a full ATPL. You will need to pass a thorough medical check. You should be physically fit, and have good hearing, eyesight and color-normal vision. Several universities offer courses in air transport and operations with pilot training options. Some of these allow you to study up to frozen ATPL level. In most cases, you will have to pay for the flight training modules yourself. A degree or HND/foundation degree is not required for entry into work as a cabin crew member. Instead, most airlines require a good secondary education, with some asking for grade C or above in English and Maths. Skills To become an airline pilot, you will need to have: the ability to follow spoken instructions from air traffic control the ability to give clear, confident instructions to crew members and passengers good teamwork skills the ability to work with technology good hand-to-eye coordination the ability to read maps and 3D displays good written communication skills The ability to remain calm, and take charge in an emergency. flexibility in working unsocial hours on any day of the year; To become a cabin crew member, you will need to have: communication skills; confidence in dealing with a range of people; the ability to work as a team member (different teams may be worked with every day) and be supportive of colleagues; competence in handling difficult situations and the ability to remain calm under pressure and in emergency situations; the ability to be tactful and diplomatic but also assertive when necessary; commercial awareness and sales skills; flexibility in working unsocial hours on any day of the year; the ability to work quickly and efficiently, often to tight time constraints; numeracy skills for handling cash, including foreign currency; The ability to work in a confined space. Personal qualities Pilots need to display a very special blend of personal characteristics: maturity, commitment, a technical aptitude and interest, determination to succeed, self-motivation and willingness to take on responsibility.  The qualities of a good cabin crew are approachability, warm personality, sincerity, honesty, having a humble disposition, friendliness, discipline, stable emotion, having good listening skills, rule oriented, being organised, having a cross-cultural sensitivity and understanding, adaptability, assertiveness, dedication to details and having a good sense of humour. Some airlines look for air cabin crew who can speak a second language and this will be essential if you want to be based in an overseas location. Experience Pilots must be at least 21 years old and have full ATPL and have a certain amount of flying hours to start flying. They will need to pass a thorough medical check. To become a cabin crew memebr, you would be given basic training lasting between four and six weeks. This covers: security, customs  and immigration regulations; safety and emergency procedures; first aid; customer relations and passenger care; currency exchange; food preparation and service, and galley management; Personal grooming (appearance). After this you would normally have a trial period of three to six months. During this time your performance would be checked by trainers or senior crew members. You would have to pass regular exams to test your knowledge of safety and emergency procedures, and to make sure you meet official first aid requirements. Other factors, e.g. location, CRB disclosures, driving licence It is recommended that before candidates you begin any training you take the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Class One Medical. It is a requirement that all airline pilots pass this medical, and if they do not, they will not be able to complete the training to achieve the ATPL. Criminal record checks can play a key role in your personnel security regime, both at the pre-employment stage and as a tool in personnel security aftercare. The Department for Transport) requires a basic criminal record disclosure for certain roles. This shows unspent convictions only. Candidates also must be able to swim for 25m unaccompanied. Cabin Crew candidates must go through a CRB check. To be successful candidates must not have a criminal record and in some cases not even a caution. Candidates also must be able to swim for 25m unaccompanied. Depending on what airline you work for, you must hold a driving license e.g. Flybe require candidates to have a valid driving licence. Progression: Opportunities for promotion progression Newly qualified pilots start with an airline as a copilot, where they will be second in command on the aircraft. The captain has the overall responsibility for the flight and safety of the passengers and crew but shares tasks with the copilot. With enough hours and experience copilots will be able to progress to the role as a captain. With experience air cabin crew members could get promoted to pursers. As the purser, you would ensure that all crew within your cabin deliver the highest level of customer service. You would also give feedback on their performance and try to boost sales of duty-free items. Training Pilots training to reach the frozen ATPL level could take between nine and 36 months, depending on which entry route they follow. It may take less time if you already have a Private Pilots License, Commercial Pilots License or experience in the armed forces. Training will include: flight principles navigation and communications meteorology operational procedures aviation law use of flight simulators and flying real aircraft. During the training period, you would learn basic flying skills and usually work towards frozen ATPL. You must complete a minimum 195 hours flying time to achieve this. There isn’t a strict education required for becoming an air hostess (besides a GCSE level in English and Maths for most companies), but taking cabin crew training will increase your chance of being hired. Some courses will provide you with training which is similar to the cabin crew training you would receive from an airline company. This gives you a benefit over those who didn’t have some relevant training, which will likely make you stand out of the crowd. Further higher education Pilots would normally start work as a co-pilot (first officer) alongside a training captain on short-haul flights. This would give them maximum experience of take offs and landings. A full ATPL is normally awarded after 1500 flying hours, with at least 500 of these as a co-pilot. Eventually you could become a fully qualified captain. A range of further training courses are also available, which introduce candidates to skills and recruitment processes. Such courses often have useful links to major recruiters and can be an advantage, but do not guarantee entry to the profession. Factors to consider:  E.g. seasonality, temporary, fixed-term contracts. Most seasons start in October and go through May-July so you missed this season. Contracts vary from fixed and temporary. If you have a temporary contract, airlines could go on to terminate your contract or offer you a permanent contract. Contracts vary from fixed and temporary. If you have a temporary contract, they could go on to terminate your contract or offer you a permanent contract. Working hours Your working hours would be linked to flight destinations and could include nights, weekends and public holidays. Working hours are strictly regulated for safety reasons. The amount of time you spend away from home would vary. On UK and European routes, you may be able to return home every evening. Flights further away would often involve overnight stays or longer. If so, your employer would provide you with accommodation. You would work shifts that include weekends, nights and public holidays. The amount of time you would spend away from home would vary depending on the flight routes that you work on. You would be expected to be neat and smart, and your company would provide you with a uniform. The work can be physically demanding, as you would spend a lot of time on your feet and work in small spaces like the kitchen galley. Bad weather could make it uncomfortable in the aircraft. Level of pay A pilot’s level of pay may vary from  £21,000 to  £75,000 depending on experience and level of flying hours. Starting salaries can be between  £12,000 and  £14,000 a year. With experience, this rises to between  £15,000 and  £21,000 a year. Senior crew can earn up to  £25,000 a year. Overtime and flight allowances can increase salaries. Perks As well as getting to fly to either domestic or international destinations as part of their job, airplane pilots get big discounts on personal air travel. Many also enjoy discounts on personal car rentals and hotel rooms through their employers. These benefits can be for life and often extend to other family members. Pilots also enjoy free hotel accommodations when they have to stay away from home overnight. Cabin crew members are provided with free accommodation. You can get cheaper flights for friends and family depending on the airline. The major perk to being cabin crew. For the lucky few that get long haul flights then they will normally stopover in the country you are going too. The airlines will normally put you up in a 4 or 5 star hotel plus whilst you are there you are free to do as you wish. As well as all this you also get paid for it.

Evidence Based Mental Health Nursing

Evidence Based Mental Health Nursing Introduction This report will focus on the assessment and care planning for an individual using the mental health services. Evidence based approach will be deploy in order to be able to record, review and monitor the progress of the service user. Evidence-based practice is a structured and systematic approach to using research based knowledge of effectiveness to inform practice (Olfson, 2009). Knowledge includes formal information derived from research, for example from published trials and reviews. It also encompasses the informal knowledge and wisdom of practitioners, sometimes called tacit knowledge. This informal knowledge can include, in addition, the expertise of those who receive an intervention, whether that is medication, talking therapies or attending a parenting skills group. Care Programme Approach(CPA)provides the framework for assessing and care planning for a person with mental illness. CPA was introduced in 1991 by Department of Health as a systematic arrangement for assessing the health and social needs of people accepted into specialist mental health services (Kingdon, 1998). The formation of the plan will detail the health and social care required from a variety of provider as well as the appointment of a key worker to keep in close touch with the service user and to monitor and co-ordinate care. In addition, regular reviews will be conducted where necessary, agreed changes to the care plan. Hence, in this report, I will outline the main principles of CPA and deploy the use of Tidal Model and principles throughout the report by Tidal models principles to clinical practice and assessment and care planning. A detailed background and information about the individual receiving care in the clinical section of where I work will be provided. And to make it clearer for the audience of this report, I will highlight the purpose of conducting this assessment as well as the process of the assessment. The discussion will centre on care planning and the strategies or issues that may impact the process. In order to keep the identity of the person under care anonymous in in accordance with confidentiality and the NMC code, only the initial of the individual will be used through the discussion in this report. As a nurse, I owe a duty of confidentiality to all those who are receiving care under me and that includes making sure that they are informed about their care and that information about them is shared appropriately (Maloney, 2016). Care Programme Approach Framework and The Tidal Model The Care Programme Approach (CPA) is a way that services are assessed, planned, co-ordinated and reviewed for someone with mental health problems or a range of related complex needs (Nhs.uk, 2017). CPA are generally offered to individual that have been diagnosed for having a severe mental disorder, someone who is at risk of suicide, self-harm, or harm to others and people with history of violence or self-harm. In addition, the service is available for people that vulnerable, this could be for different reasons such as physical or emotional abuse, financial difficulties because of mental illness or cognitive impairment. The three main core principles of CPA according to Rowland (2013) are the assessments of the needs of the individual, allocation of a care coordinator and plan how to meet the needs of the person. The coordinator will ensure that the plan include the fully assess of the service user needs, it will also show how the NHS and other organisations will meet the needs of the person, including the family in some cases. It has to be regularly reviewed by the coordinator to monitor progress. In addition, the coordinator will have to think about all the mental health needs of the service user, medication and side effects, employment, training or education and personal circumstances including family and carers. The assessment will include the risk of the service user to themselves or other, either there is a problem with drugs or alcohol. The CPA is a model for good practice which remains applicable today. However, the CPA is a care for those of working age in contact with specialist mental health and social care services (Donohue, 2014). It is crucial to work have an integrated approach across health and social care to minimise the distress and confusion sometimes experienced by people referred to the mental health system and their carers. In addition, professionals have found some aspects of the CPA over-bureaucratic, managers and service users alike have found the lack of consistency confusing (Donohue, 2014). It is they who have been working and living with the CPA for some years now and it is important to take account of their views. In the nutrshell, Bree-Aslan and Hampton (2009) indicated that CPA is not a model of care but a tool and process to guide nurses on how to provide effective service for people with mental illness. By embracing an integrated approach where by a seamless service can be achieved through an integrated approach to care co-ordination which provides for a si ngle point of referral and a unified health and social care assessment process (Koopmans, 2013). Tidal model will be deployed through the care planning and assessment in this report. This principles and philosophies of this model will help to give an in depth understanding to the process of assessment and care-planning. Tidal model is a mental health recovery model which may be used as the basis for interdisciplinary mental health care. It was developed by Dr Phil Barker and Poppy Buchanan-Barker as a philosophical approach to the discovery of mental health (Barker and Buchanan-Barker, 2010). The Tidal Model accentuates helping people reclaim the personal story of mental distress, by recovering their voice. With service user, own language, metaphors and personal stories, people can begin to reclaim the meaning of their personal experiences. Helping someone to a problem in living is rarely easy because everyone is unique and each persons reaction to any problem in living also is unique. Hence, what works one person may not always work for another. In Tidal model. The first step towards someone with mental illness recovering control over their lives. The model enable mental health nursing to be used as the basis for interdisciplinary mental health care and the focus begin with begin with the recovery journey when the person is at their lowest ebb experiencing the most serious problems in living (Barker and Buchanan-Barker, 2010). The Tidal Model provides a practice framework for the exploration of the patients need for nursing and the provision of individually tailored care. (Barker P, 2001) and it is considered as a mid-range theory of nursing, hence the main focus of the model is on helping individual people, make their own voyage of discovery. From the research, already been conducted by different scholars, the combination of CPA framework and Tidal model with the collaboration with the service user will enable them to recognise areas and needs that will be most suitable for their recovery as well as promoting a culture of p erson-centred care that is not associated with CPA framework. Biography Janet Bonet is a 58-year-old female living with her daughter who is one of her three children. Janet has never been married and also has no partner at the moment, although she said to have been in different relationships in the past but which seem to lead nowhere. My mentor and I have been asked to assess Janet during her inpatient appointment at the centre. Janet has been known to mental health services over the years and has a history of disengagement. She has had a diagnosis of severe depression in the past and also suffers from back problem which impacts on her mental health. Janet has never been able to keep a job due to her physical health and so she has been in benefits most of her life. Due to financial stress in the past, she has self-neglected and now depend on her carer who is also her daughter for support in daily activities. Also, she was asked by the council to downsize her four-bedroom house to a two-bedroom house which she has done but still waiting on the housing list to be moved closer to her family and she finds this waiting period stressful as she has been waiting for over a year so housing is also her concern. Recently, she has been experiencing a lot of fluctuations in her mood as she reports that she lost her Dad, Mum,Nan,and Grandad within two weeks of each other and found this extremely distressing and also has been having thoughts of harming herself. Her daughter is her carer and she also claims that her other children along with her grandchildren do visit sometimes which makes her think less about self-harming herself. She says My children and grandchildren are my protective factors. She went further to say that she has been experiencing feelings of emptiness and anger due to the fact that she does not feel safe in her neighbourhood as she feels some people are out to get her. Janet admits that in the past she has not been compliant with her medication due to side effects but is willing to be compliant with treatment now that she feels she is in crisis in order to promote her recovery. Janet has also reported suicidal thoughts in the past and has had two attempts at committing suicide. Assessment The assessment of service user with mental illness include collections of different range of information. The information may include mental health symptoms and experiences of the service user, feelings, thoughts and actions physical health and wellbeing, culture and ethnic background, use of drugs or alcohol, social and family relationships and past experiences, especially of similar problems. The whole essence of conducting assessment is for the coordinator to be familiar with the life history of the service user. However, I prefer deploy Barker (2008, p.66) procedures of assessment by trying to answer the question who the service user is. The procedure will enable the coordinator to focus on the individual as a whole by considering their needs instead on focusing on diagnosis. The second question like what is wrong? will prompt the service user to give information about their state of mind and wellbeing. For a nurse, the concept is to show empathy for the service user to be at eas e and feel unthreatened to give more information about the state of the health and their experience. The correlate with Tidal model of Barker and Buchanan-Barker (2010) that indicated that coordinator can deploy a holistic assessment whereby the service user is allowed to tell their story and world of experience. Through holistic assessment, therapeutic communication, and the ongoing collection of objective and subjective data, nurses are able to provide improved person-centred care to patients. A holistic assessment approach acknowledges and addresses the physiological, psychological, sociological, developmental, spiritual and cultural needs of the patient (Kreys, 2014). However, finding out who the person is and what is wrong with them, is just one part of the assessment. It is essential to form a collaborative and empowering relationship with the service user in order for them to be comfortable around the coordinator. Hence, service user should be treated with respect and dignity no matter the state of their health. References Barker, P. (2008). What are psychiatrists for?. Mental Health Practice, 12(1), pp.11-11. Barker, P. and Buchanan-Barker, P. (2010). The Tidal Model of Mental Health Recovery and Reclamation: Application in Acute Care Settings. Issues in Mental Health Nursing, 31(3), pp.171-180. Bree-Aslan, C. and Hampton, S. (2009). Pressure care, part two: the importance of assessment. Nursing and Residential Care, 11(1), pp.12-17. Donohue, P. (2014). Involving families in planning and assessment of community services. Nursing and Residential Care, 16(3), pp.175-176. Kingdon, D. (1998). Reclaiming the care programme approach. Psychiatric Bulletin, 22(6), pp.341-341. Koopmans, R. (2013). Mental health in long-term care settings: The Dutch approach. Geriatric Mental Health Care, 1(1), pp.3-6. Kreys, T. (2014). A holistic approach to patient care in psychiatry. Mental Health Clinician, 4(3), pp.98-99. Maloney, P. (2016). Nursing Professional Development. Journal for Nurses in Professional Development, 32(6), pp.327-330. Nhs.uk. (2017). Mental health services: Care Programme Approach NHS Choices. [online] Available at: http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/social-care-and-support-guide/Pages/care-programme-approach.aspx [Accessed 28 Feb. 2017]. Olfson, M. (2009). Review: limited evidence to support specialist mental health services as alternatives to inpatient care for young people with severe mental health disorders. Evidence-Based Mental Health, 12(4), pp.117-117. Rowland, P. (2013). Core principles and values of effective team-based health care. Journal of Interprofessional Care, 28(1), pp.79-80.

Expanding Medicare to Include Prescription Drug Coverage :: essays papers

Expanding Medicare to Include Prescription Drug Coverage Introduction Throughout the past year of presidential campaigning, one of the top issues for both candidates has been that of whether or not there should be a prescription-drug benefit added to Medicare. Both George W. Bush and Al Gore have proposed a plan to expand Medicare to include full prescription-drug coverage for senior citizens receiving Medicare, at the expense of taxpayers. It is obvious why this issue has been such a priority for both candidates. Senior citizens vote at a much higher rate than other age groups. Both candidates know the importance of these senior citizen votes and believe that the proposal of adding a prescription-drug benefit is something that will appeal to a vast number of senior citizens. Both candidates have portrayed the issue as being very critical and as a serious problem that needs to be addressed. The question, however, is whether or not such drug coverage is a worthwhile project to undertake. Is the problem indeed serious enough to call for the type of reform that the candidates are proposing? Medicare is already a very costly program to keep up, and adding prescription-drug coverage would increase these costs even more. In order to fund this project, there will need to be a tax hike. Should taxpayers subsidize this prescription-drug benefit? Is there a good reason why this redistribution should take place? What are the benefits and costs of this proposal? These and other questions will be addressed in this paper as we examine the following topics: the need for senior citizens to have prescription-drug coverage, the political rhetoric involved with this issue, the projected shortfall in the budget of the Medicare program, and who really would benefit if a prescription-drug benefit was added to Medicare. Need for Prescription-Drug Coverage Many people argue that the lack of a prescription-drug benefit is the major shortcoming of the Medicare program. But are Medicare recipients really in need of such a benefit? According to a study done by the AARP Public Policy Institute, about 25.6 million, or 65 percent, of noninstitutionalized Medicare beneficiaries already receive some type of prescription-drug coverage, whether it is through employer-sponsored health plans or individually purchased private health policies. This leaves about 13.5 million Medicare beneficiaries who are without prescription-drug coverage.

Buddhism Essay -- essays research papers fc

Buddhism   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  For over 2000 years Buddhism has existed as an organized religion. By religion we mean that it has a concept of the profane, the sacred, and approaches to the sacred. It has been established in India, China, Japan and other eastern cultures for almost 2000 years and has gained a strong foothold in North America and Europe in the past few centuries. However, one might ask; what fate would Buddhism face had Siddartha Guatama been born in modern times; or more specifically in modern day North America? Would his new found enlightenment be accepted now as it was thousands of years ago? Would it be shunned by society as another â€Å"cult† movement? What conflicts or similarities would it find with modern science; physics in particular? The answers to these questions are the aim of this paper, as well as a deeper understanding of modern Buddhism.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Although I will stick with traditional ideas raised by Buddhism, one detail in the story of Siddartha Guatama must be addressed in order for it to be relevant to the main question being asked: What obstacles would Siddartha Guatama face had he been born in modern day North America. Primarily, it must be recognized that rather than being born into the Hindu religion (which in itself is mystical), Siddartha would have most likely been born into a Christian family. This in itself presents the first obstacle, that being that Christianity is a strictly monotheistic and non-mystical faith. Hence from the outset, although in the traditional story Siddartha faced a conflict with his father (Ludwig 137), in the North American scenario the conflict would have been heightened by the fact that his search for enlightenment was not even closely similar to the Christian faith.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  As with science, changes in religious thought are often met with strong opposition. It is interesting to note though, that many parallels can be found between modern physics and Eastern Mysticism. As Fritjof Capra writes: The changes, brought about by modern physics . . . all seem to lead towards a view of the world which is very similar to the views held in Eastern Mysticism. The concepts of modern physics often show surprising parallels to the ideas expressed in the religious philosophies of the Far East. (17-18) Thus by examining some of the obstacles imposed by t... ...o overcome the problems of being born into a Christian family/society; a society not used to such abstract ideas of reality, the close- minded nature of western thought, and the problems posed by a media that likes to jump on anything new and unusual and tear it to shreds. However, if it were to overcome these obstacles it is quite probable that it would become a deeply rooted religion in North America due to the likely support it would gain from the scientific community. Bibliography Capra, Fritjof. The Tao Of Physics: An Exploration of the Parallels Between Modern Physics and Eastern Mysticism. Berkley: Shamhala Publications, 1975 Ludwig, Theodore M. The Sacred Paths: Understanding the Religions of the World.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 1996 Niwano, Nikky. Buddhism For Today: A Modern Interpretation of the Threefold Lotus   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Sutra. New York: WeatherHill, 1980 Richardson, Allen E. East Comes West: Asian Religions and Cultures in North America.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  New York: The Pilgrim Press, 1985 Shupe Anson D. Six Perspectives On New Religions: A Case Study Approach.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  New York::

Andrea Jung Case

1. Describe Andrea Jung’s leadership style. How did her upbringing influence that style? What assumptions about human nature does she hold? Andrea Jung is the quintessential transformational leader. Jung showcases her transformational leadership style through her charisma, delegation of authority, consideration of subordinates, and her ability to constantly modify the organizational structure of Avon. Jung’s charisma is seen in the strong passion she has for Avon. This passion was clearly manifested when Jung turned down a CEO position at another company to remain the number two person at Avon. The genuine love that Jung has for Avon and its impact on society serves as a motivational leadership tool. The influence of Jung’s positive attitude toward Avon promotes an atmosphere of cooperation and teamwork. Much like fellow transformational leader Howard Schultz, Jung is firm believer in delegating authority. An example of Jung’s trust in delegation was seen in her 2001 appointment of Susan Kropf to COO. Despite Kropf’s young age, 31, Jung believed she was the right woman for job. Jung’s instincts proved to be correct, as Kropf saved Avon roughly $460 million. In working her way through the many levels of Avon, Jung was able to understand the importance of sales representative moral, as they were the heart of Avon. It was through this knowledge that Jung decided to increase representatives’ commission payouts. This action is a clear example of her consideration of subordinates and Jung’s transformational leadership style. Jung’s leadership at Avon has always been characterized by her belief in modifying the organizational structure. Never were these modifications for her personal benefit, rather the benefit of Avon as a whole. From her initial changing of the vision statement in 2000, to her new business model in 2005, Jung has always put company goals ahead of any personal interests. Andrea Jung’s upbringing has had a clear influence on our transformational style of leadership. Andrea’s parents instilled in her a strong work ethic at a very young age. This work ethic, combined with her Asian parent’s high belief in â€Å"in-group collectivism,† set the stage for Andrea to take great pride in groups that she holds near to her, such as her family and Avon. On the contrary, Andrea’s upbringing was not one characterized by high individualism. A 2006 USA Today story states, â€Å"(i)ntroversion might be partially explained by culture, genetics and upbringing. More men are introverts than women. Masatoshi Ono, who resigned as CEO of Bridgestone/Firestone during the tire scandal of 2000, lived in Nashville for seven years but was practically unknown even by neighbors when he returned to Japan. Avon Products CEO Andrea Jung told USA TODAY in a rare interview in 2000 that she is not shy, but grew up in a traditional Asian household and was, therefore, ‘reserved. † As the above statement explains, the modest climate that Andrea was raised in was not one were she was able to showcase her assertive and confident side. In Jung’s rise to CEO one of her main obstacles was revealing her aggressive side, a side that was clearly surpressed as a youth. Andrea Jung possesses an array of assumptions on human nature. Jung is a f irm believer in having a genuine love for what you do in life. She assumes that not doing what you want to do is a sacrifice that affects both men and women. Andrea also believes that innovation is the key to finding success in business, however, Jung assumes that this innovation can not be used in a means to hurt the company. Jung’s strongest assumption on human nature is a person’s sound principles and passion will guide them through both the good and bad times. Jung’s charasmatic demeanor, combined with her modest upbringing, enable her to have these optimistic assumptions on human nature. 2. Does Jung practice high involvement management? Explain your answer. Andrea Jung practices a high involvement style of management. Jung’s high involvement management is seen through her reliance on decision power, information sharing, and incentive compensation. The delegation of all operational decisions to Susan Kropf is an example of the belief in decision power that Jung possesses. The delegation paid off in the long run for Avon, as Kropf saved a large amount in reducing the amount of suppliers. For Jung to put such responsibility in a subordinate is a testament to her high involvement approach. Avon is characterized by an open flow of information for all its employees. Key among this data is Avon’s spreading of facts on female social and health issues. Jung’s continuation of Avon’s traditional spreading of information pamphlets enables both her workforce and customers to share in Avon’s values. The distribution of these pamphlets enables Avon to form a special bond with their customers. High involvement managers believe in compensating their employees based upon their performance. Avon’s compensation is based on a piece rate system, where associates are compensated based on the amount they sell. In another manifestation of her high involvement style, Jung decided to increase representative payouts. Some areas Avon even pays commissions to existing sales members, based upon reps that they personally recruit. 3. To what degree does Andrea Jung demonstrate the attributes of emotional intelligence? The five attributes of emotional intelligence are highly visible in Andrea Jung’s leadership style. Through her day to day demonstration of self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills, Andrea Jung proves that she is a manager characterized by a high degree of emotional intelligence. Jung understands that her behaviors affect her workforce’s feelings and beliefs. The productivity of her employees is a direct result of her optimistic demeanor. A prime example of her self-awareness is evident when Jung states, â€Å"(i)f people can’t tell that I love this company, then it’s hard for me to be a lasting leader. † This quote serves a symbol of Jung’s ability to understand that her attitude, alone, is a key motivational force for Avon. Emotionally intelligent leaders are able to remain calm in both the good and bad times. From her time as a Bloomingdale’s management trainee, to her current role as Avon’s CEO, Jung has always been able to control her emotions. The self-regulation that Jung has shown through her ups and downs has encouraged her associates to handle their difficult situations in the same calm and open minded demeanor. Motivation is synonymous with Andrea Jung. She possesses a passion for Avon and its vision of elevating women in the community. Jung has a track record of constantly looking to improve processes at Avon. Her delegation of authority to Susan Kropt and her proposed correctional action plan are clear illustrations of this fervor. Through her search for feedback from associates and burning desire for constant improvement at Avon, it is clear that Jung is an emotionally intelligent leader. Jung’s understands the importance of a healthy balance between a professional and personal life. It is this empathy that enables her to be an effective manager. Her ability to balance her personal and work duties sets an example for her workforce. Jung also has shown that she is not afraid to make decisions that directly improve her employee’s moral, as was the case when she raised commission payouts for her direct salesperson workforce. Jung’s ability to see the big picture enables her to understand that a happy sales team will pay far great value in the long term than the short term balance sheet savings. Jung has established an array of effective working relationships with current and past colleagues. Her past relationships with Barbara Bass and James Preston laid the framework of her proficient social skills. Her belief in the importance in social relationships is depicted in her decision to keep Avon’s tradition of sales representative personally delivering roducts to their customers. It is through these social skills that Jung has been able to lead Avon to her desired outcomes. 4. What is Avon’s business model? How has the business model changed over time? Avon’s business model was built upon independent sales representatives selling cosmetics in a door to door sales approach. This model lasted for over 80 years, when two key economic forces caused Avon to change. The competition fro m large discount stores, as well as the trend of women joining the workforce, forced Avon to change its business model. In the 1980’s Avon, unsure of its direct selling method, went through a period of acquisitions where it bought some health care businesses and Tiffany & Co. , a high end jewelry retailer. In 1988 Avon’s new CEO, James Preston, recommitted the company towards its direct sales of personal care products. After selling off non core business departments, Preston focused on a restoration of growth at Avon. Avon was characterized in the 1990’s by a vision centered on a global understanding of women. Their recommitment to their direct sales model was seen in their global sales force of roughly 1. million independent sales representatives. The Andrea Jung era of Avon began at the start of the new millennium. Jung’s model was characterized by an even deeper emphasis on women, a reduction of suppliers, and an open mind regarding innovation. Despite much success in her early years at Avon, 2005 posed as a pivotal year for Jung, as Avon’s demand was in decline. Given the changing market conditions, Jung proposed a new business model that focused on increased R&D, channel support, and advertising. 5. Is Avon a learning organization? Explain your answer. Avon possesses many of the key attributes of a learning rganization. Through its constant ability to react to market conditions, openness to innovation, and guiding ideas, Avon is a clear example of a learning organization. Learning has been a cornerstone of Avon’s historical success. As their market has experienced a variety of drastic changes, their ability to react to market conditions has enabled Avon to survive for over a century. A great deal of learning at Avon comes from their process of having all executives spend time as a direct sales representative. It was during this experience, that a young Andrea Jung learned the complexity of Avon’s marketing materials. For a company to be considered a learning organization, it has to have an environment that fosters innovation. Andrea Jung single handedly influences Avon to adopt an innovative approach to their business practices. Jung possesses an open mind regarding any innovation that Avon could adapt to its advantage. It is this learning environment that has permitted Avon to experience such success. The most influential factor in making Avon a learning organization is the clear guiding ideas that management communicates to all employees. From James Preston to Andrea Jung, Avon has had a history of motivating, team building vision statements. The tradition of female focused mission statements is a perfect match for Avon, as the majority of Avon’s workforce is female. 6. How does Jung leverage human capital for Avon’s competitive advantage? Is this competitive advantage sustainable given the prevailing competitive pressures and forces driving industry change? Avon’s direct sales distribution is an inherent human capital leveraging characteristic that gives the company a competitive advantage. Jung’s increase in the amount of independent sales reps from 1. 5 million to 5 million is a clear illustration of her leverage of human capital. This sales headcount increase is but one of Jung’s human capital influences. Jung also motivates her sales force through her international travels, showing to her associates that each and every one of them is valued at Avon. Perhaps Jung’s most valuable leveraging of human capital is her ability to cater Avon’s highest principles and values to her largely female workforce. Understanding that Avon is a female centered company, Jung is able to keep company moral high, as employees connect their job with Avon’s vision of enhancing women’s value in the community. Avon’s competitive advantage is sustainable given the prevailing competitive pressures and industry driving forces. It is important to recognize the influence the Avon brand has on consumers in its developed markets. Despite Avon’s recent softened demand in these long standing markets, they will always have a loyal customer base thanks to their decades of personalized business. Avon’s growth potential is in the international markets. As India and China continue to industrialize their economy, their cosmetic and toiletries spending is set to skyrocket. Avon’s increased international sales headcount is the key in addressing their growing international opportunities. As long as Avon continues its innovative nature and stays committed to its bread and butter, direct selling with independent sales representatives, they will continue to perform well. 7. In 2005, what strategic and/or organizational problems exist for Avon Products? How are these reflected in the financial performance of the firm? Avon had two key strategic and organizational obstacles to overcome in 2005. The first issue facing Avon was the softened demand in their developed North American markets. Avon’s second problem was the increased competition in their growing international markets. This was an exceptionally troubling for Avon, as these markets were the key to their future growth. These two problems are clearly reflected in Avon’s financial performance. Exhibit 1 of the case, Avon’s selected financial data 1995-2005, reveals these issues as they relate to headcount. Avon’s number of US employees decreased 700 employees (7%) from 2003 to 2005. The decreased headcount in the US is a clear indication of softening demand in a developed market. The international headcount tells a different tale. Avon’s international headcount nearly doubled from 1995 to 2005, growing from 23,800 to 40,300. The growth in headcount is a clear manifestation of the growth of sales in the international markets, as total net income at Avon increased from $256. 5M in 1995 to $847. 6M in 2005. However, the ratio of net income to international sales headcount takes a turn for the worse between 2004 and 2005. Despite an increase of 1,500 international employees from 2004 to 2005, net income only rose $1. M. This is roughly an additional $1,000 in net income per new international headcount. Compare this ratio to the 2003 to 2004 numbers, where one new international headcount yielded an additional $79,000 in net income, and you see the problems Avon has experienced. The severe decrease in additional net income per international headcount is a direct result of Avon’s increased competition in their growing worldwide markets. 8. As CEO in 20 05, does Andrea Jung have the leadership qualities necessary to address these challenges effectively? Avon’s challenges call for an innovative, charismatic leader, a manager who is not afraid to sacrifice his or her personal gains for the better of the company. Fortunately for Avon, Andrea Jung is that transformational leader that has the qualities to guide Avon through these current challenges. Avon’s current obstacles are present in all their global markets. The solution to these deeply systemic challenges will be addressed by Jung’s strategic vision. Throughout her career, Andrea Jung has always been able prioritize long term answers over short term quick fixes. From her time at Bloomingdales, to her leadership as CEO, Jung was a proven track record focusing company resources on the appropriate issues. The high emotional intelligence of Jung will also enable her to properly address Avon’s current dilemmas. She understands that in order for Avon to tackle their current difficulties, she must not only keep company moral high, but also maintain a calm demeanor during this difficult time. The key to Avon success is in the interactions between their direct sales team and customers. From her visits to worldwide Avon offices, Jung is able to have a constant understanding of this interaction. It is this consistent understanding of Avon’s sales channels that will enable her to effectively make the necessary decisions for Avon. Jung’s ability to continuously reinvent her management style is perhaps her most crucial quality in terms of addressing Avon’s current problems. As Avon’s market has experienced a variety of influences throughout her tenure as CEO, Jung has needed to alter her way of thinking. Much of Avon’s past success is due to Jung being able to put her ego aside. This humble nature will enable Avon to successfully address their current concerns. 9. Evaluate the proposed correction action plan Jung and her leadership team have developed. What recommendations would you suggest to them? Avon’s four tier proposed correction plan is made up of a renewed commitment to brand awareness, a focus on their commercial edge, an elevation of commercial effectiveness, and a transformation of their cost structure. Although I feel this is an overall effective plan, I do have some recommendations on how to make this more successful. Avon’s commitment to brand competitiveness is characterized by a focus on Skin Care and Color as well as a boost in advertising. Although I feel that this proposal is solid, there are two key items that Avon must focus on for this initiative to be successful. Avon must do the necessary market research to ensure that their Skin Care and Color lines are sold in the most effective channels. Their past launches of â€Å"beComing and â€Å"mark† had issues because of the weaknesses in their selected channel of distribution. The second point Avon needs to pay close attention to is that they are getting the most out of their advertising dollars. As their North Americans are already mature, advertising efforts here will be less effective than in their more promising international markets. Avon must focus the majority of their advertising budget towards these global markets. This focus will enable them to establish a stronger brand recognition that will transfer into future sales. Avon’s second piece centers on them improving their merchandising and shopping appeal in their direct-selling approach. I agree that the direct-selling approach is their strongest asset, and that enriching it would create a lot of value. I do, however, recommend that Avon does not stray too far away from their traditional mode of direct-selling. Drastic changes to this will erode the traditional bond that Avon has with its customer base. I also recommend that Avon does not increase their merchandising too specifically. As was shown in their prior marketing brochure, Avon has had a history of flooding their customers with too much information. Avon’s plan to elevate its organizational effectiveness is characterized by an increase in training in people development. This proposal matches quite well with Jung, as she is an emotionally intelligent leader that believes in the development of her associates. My suggestion regarding this organizational elevation is that they do it in a way that does not affect the time that their sales force spends in front of customers. As personal interaction with clients is the cornerstone to Avon’s growth strategy, it is crucial that this time is not significantly decreased by various trainings. The plan for a radical transformation at Avon is made up of a realigned cost structure and a strategic leveraging of assets. Obviously, these are valuable initiatives to strive for. From Avon’s perspective, I would recommend that they develop multiple action plans based upon the financial effects of these changes. As their market is not predictable, they need to develop a worst case scenario plan, in the event their sales revenue does not meet expectations. History of â€Å"wooden-headedness† behavior at companies such as Sony and Snow Brand has proven that failure to plan for such problems can cause severe problems within a company. Having this plan set in place will enable them to immediately react to any adverse future performances.

Breaking the Sheltering Bar: A Response Essay

African American literature has been prolific and appreciated especially during the early twentieth century, the time when discrimination was rampant and lynching and infanticide were the results of the racial supremacy of the White Americans. Literature was an important tool to voice out reactions, ideologies, representations, truths and suggestions about the state of the forthcoming changes in the American society.Through the anti-lynching literature of Georgia Douglas Johnson and the introduction of   African American culture in James Weldon Johnson, we will take an in depth look at literal and critical interpretations of a selection of poems and analyze intertextually how these literary selections merge and provide context about the African American heritage.James Weldon Johnson in his poem â€Å"The Creation† pictured God as someone people can understand or relate to. He was not depicted as an illusory idea, but humanized to an extent we can visualize God. It was writte n in a vernacular similar to a preaching, with some familiar language and style similar to African American lingo. It describes creation in a lyrical manner, with repetitive lines.The poem depicts not only a biblical story but also a tradition and a culture imbibed African Americans. The composition of the poem was written like a sermon. We can see that certain biblical styles present in the poem. This trend combined with the lyrical trend similar to gospel songs show a way of incorporating native oral traditions in African American cultures. In Rubà ©n Jarazo’s article James Weldon Johnson. The Black Bard, simplicity and clarity are present in James Weldon Johnson’s literary styles.African American culture and society had its roots from slavery and discrimination, caged in a mould that there is a superior, imperialist society over them. Such ideas of discrimination had developed into the use of literature especially in the early twentieth century to express and react and suggest what they feel in the scrutiny of other races.According to Rubà ©n Jarazo in his article James Weldon Johnson, The Black Bard, African American academics and the general voice of the society had placed their voices on paper, creating a boom of interest in African American writing. This is what they called the Harlem Renaissance. This movement gave way for the exploration of Black American’s past, and present, as well as representing their individuality and cultural distinction.The transition of the focus of racial purity became more complex with the concept of cosmopolitanism. In the case of White and Black Americans having children, there is a new wave of discrimination as to where to draw the lines of superiority. This created literature about cosmopolites.Georgia Douglas Johnson has always portrayed the power and importance of the cosmopolitanism. African American culture as embedded in the cultural roots of American society. She defined this concept in the p oem Cosmopolite.The African American race was depicted to be a mixture of different bloods, a product of the interplay in historical and social contexts. They are alienated but not alienated she stands comprehending; from the condition of her life she view earth’s frail dilemma she is a descendant of fused strengths.Nothing contains her. She established the concept of the cosmopolite as a merge between two bloods, and though the cosmopolite seems alienated, nothing contains her, for she has this new strength, a cultural marriage between the African and American sensibilities. The issue is not anymore about the distinction between the two but how the concept of being one is affective of the society they are in.These social and interracial contexts also appeared in Georgia Douglas Johnson’s poems. In â€Å"The Heart of a Woman†, she depicted the imagery of a woman, as a bird, in the strike of dawn a flying through turrets and vales, but still encaged in a concept of a home. As night falls, she becomes encaged in an alien plight, still in an inevitable seclusion.According to C.C. O’Brien in the article Cosmopolitanism in Georgia Douglas Johnson's Anti-Lynching Literature, women’s domesticism over the patriarchy and masculinity of imperialism connotes the status of African American status in society. As much as they wanted to be free, freedom is not absolute.The White patriarchy that assumes a kindling and protective shelter, prohibits people to grow and take part in society. This can be interpreted in a way as O’Brien depicted the desire of African American communities for equality in social and political facets.