Napoleon3 essays

Napoleon3 essays Did Napoleon preserve or pervert the gains of the Revolution Napoleon was indirectly responsible for spreading many of the ideals of the French Revolution throughout Europe. Although he never openly espoused revolutionary tenets his Empire and government was in many ways the living embodiment of those ideals. The three main areas that he had a significant impact were individualism, secularism, and nationalism. Prior to the French Revolution, class or social status was more important in French society and government than the individual. Merit and ability was subordinated to your family status and whether you were of the noble class. The Revolution did away with this and stated that all individuals were equal in the eyes of the government. How one advanced was based on merit rather than who one's ancestors were. Napoleon enshrined this with a new aristocracy based on merit. Those who performed and contributed were rewarded. The new Princes, Dukes, and Barons were men who earned their t itles, most often on the battlefield. A review of his Marshals would show that they came from all walks of life, including a barrel maker, a cabin boy, a former sergeant, and a minor noble. In addition to this, he created he Legion of Honor to recognize those who deeds merited it. The French Revolution placed the state above the Church, an extremely revolutionary concept. The Revolution even went as far to ban organized religion. Napoleon was willing to heal the rift between the Catholic Church and the government, but only if the Church did not meddle in state affairs. The Church lost its right to run schools, and to have special taxes and privileges, however Napoleon did re-open the churches and was tolerant of all religions. He even invited the Pope Pius VII to his coronation to crown him the new Emperor of France. Napoleon's true feelings on his relationship with the Church were demonstrated by his actions at the coronation. When the Pope went to place t...

Qu es el advance parole o permiso de viaje

Qu es el advance parole o permiso de viaje El advance parole es un permiso de viaje es un requerimiento indispensable para que algunos extranjeros que se encuentran en los Estados Unidos puedan viajar fuera del paà ­s y regresar. Este artà ­culo informa sobre quià ©n,  deben solicitarlo, cundo, cà ³mo, costos, consecuencias de viajar sin solicitar este permiso y quà © formas puede tener una vez que es aprobado. Quià ©nes deben solicitar el permiso conocido como advance parole Son varias las categorà ­as de extranjeros que deben solicitar el advance parole para viajar al extranjero y regresar. Pero el punto comà ºn que tienen todos ellos es que son personas que estn en la actualidad en los Estados Unidos y que si viajan al extranjero sin el permiso de viaje  no podrà ­an regresar porque carecen del debido documento migratorio, como serà ­a una visa vlida o la tarjeta de residencia permanente.   A continuacià ³n, las situaciones en las que es necesario solicitar un advance parole o permiso de viaje: 1. Ajuste de estatus   La ms comà ºn es la de las personas que han solicitado un  ajuste de estatus  en el  proceso para adquirir la tarjeta de residencia (green card). Por ejemplo, algunos esposos de ciudadanos americanos y que cumplen con una serie de requisitos. Mientras se demora el proceso de ajuste de estaus, estas personas pueden viajar al extranjero siempre si tienen un advance parole. Sin embargo, no todas las personas en proceso de ajuste deben solicitarlo. Y es que existen las siguientes excepciones: las personas que ingresaron al paà ­s con visas K-3 (esposos de ciudadanos)K-4 (hijos de ciudadanos)H-1B (profesionales)   L-1 (transfer entre empresas) y que cuentan con una visa vlida. Es muy importante el requisito de la validez del visado, ya que si no lo es, se deber pedir el advance parole mientras se est en el proceso del ajuste de estatus. Asimismo, los que solicitan el ajuste porque ya tienen un estatus de refugiado o de asilado aprobado  y està ©n en proceso de ajuste de estatus para obtener la green card deben solicitar el documento para viajar al extranjero y poder regresar (ver ms abajo cul aplica a este caso) y no el advance parole. 2. Solicitante de asilo Las personas que tienen una peticià ³n de asilo pendiente tambià ©n deben solicitar el advance parole antes de viajar fuera de los Estados Unidos. Pero no las que ya lo tienen aprobado, a quienes corresponde un documento para viajar (ver ms abajo). 3. Visa T o visa U aprobada La visa T se concede a personas que han sido và ­ctimas de trata de personas Por su parte, las visas U se otorgan a và ­ctimas de determinados delitos que han colaborado con las autoridades para resolver un crimen o lograr la condena del delincuente.   Sin embargo, cabe destacar que mientras se procesa la visa U o la T y est pendiente su aprobacià ³n, es aconsejable no viajar fuera de los Estados Unidos.   4. Accià ³n diferida aprobada Los muchachos y muchachas entre 15 y 30 aà ±os que hayan solicitado la accià ³n diferida, tambià ©n conocida como DACA, por sus siglas en inglà ©s,  y que ya la tengan aprobada pueden solicitar un advance parole para viajar al extranjero. 5. TPS Es una situacià ³n excepcional de proteccià ³n temporal que permite a los ciudadanos de determinados paà ­ses y que reà ºnen todos los requisitos seà ±alados por la ley permanecer en Estados Unidos y trabajar legalmente. En la actualidad aplica a ciudadanos de: El Salvador, Guinea, Haità ­, Honduras, Liberia, Nepal, Nicaragua, Sierra Leona, Somalia, Sudn, Sudn del Sur, Siria y Yemen. Quià ©nes no pueden pedir un advance parole Aunque una persona se encuentre dentro de las categorà ­as nombradas, es decir, ajuste de estatus, TPS, asilo pendiente, visa T o Visa U aprobados, no se puede solicitar el advance parole si se est en un proceso pendiente de deportacià ³n o expulsià ³n. Destacar que la excepcià ³n son los muchachos con DACA aprobado. Adems, consultar con un abogado en todos los casos si es que se tienen una cita para comparecer en una corte migratoria o se tienen cualquier asunto criminal pendiente o una condena por un tema de delitos o faltas. Por otro lado, no pueden solicitar este permiso para viajar los migrantes indocumentados excepto, como ya se ha dicho, los muchachos con DACA aprobado, quienes en la actualidad se encuentran en una situacià ³n que podrà ­a calificarse de semi-legalidad.  ¿Cà ³mo se solicita el advance parole? Llenando el formulario I-131. Marcar la casilla correcta, ya que este documento tambià ©n se solicita para los casos en los que se pide un permiso de reentrada o un documento de viaje (ver ms abajo). Por lo tanto hay que checar dos veces para verificar que se marca lo correcto.   Si se est en un proceso de ajuste de estatus lo ms frecuente es que se envà ­e al mismo tiempo junto con el documento en que se solicita el ajuste y un permiso de trabajo.  ¿Cundo debe solicitarse el advance parole? Antes de salir de Estados Unidos. Adems, tener en cuenta que en la mayorà ­a de los casos es necesario que le tomen al solicitante las huellas digitales (dactilares), para lo cual recibir una cita. Si se viaja fuera antes de este trmite se considera que se ha abandonado la peticià ³n de advance parole, que queda sin efecto. Costos El costo de aplicar depende de la situacià ³n de cada uno y la razà ³n por la que aplica y hasta puede ser gratis.   Si se solicita el permiso de viaje junto con el ajuste de estatus y el permiso de trabajo ya no es necesario pagar una cuota adicional.   En los otros casos, la cuota es de $360, pero verificar siempre en el documento del USCIS en el que explica cà ³mo llenar el formulario, ya que esa cantidad puede cambiar.  Tambià ©n se puede verificar el costo llamando gratuitamente al USCIS a su servicio de atencià ³n al cliente marcando al 1-800-575-5283. Adems, en algunos casos es posible solicitar una exencià ³n del pago y asà ­ saldrà ­a gratis.  ¿Cunto se demora el advance parole? Suele tardar unos dos o tres meses en procesarse. Es posible solicitar una tramitacià ³n acelerada marcando al Centro Nacional de Atencià ³n al Cliente al 1-800-375-5283 o incluyendo una carta en la aplicacià ³n en la que se adjunta documentacià ³n que sirve para apoyar la peticià ³n. En casos realmente urgentes es posible que el solicitante se presente en una oficina del USCIS. Se puede buscar la ms cercana en esta aplicacià ³n. Bajar el cursor a mitad de pgina y ahà ­ clicar en el mapa de Estados Unidos encima del estado en el que se reside.   En este caso, se debe llevar la aplicacià ³n del I-131, un cheque para el pago de la tarifa, dos fotos tipo pasaporte y documentacià ³n de apoyo para demostrar la urgencia. Por ejemplo, un certificado de defuncià ³n o un informe mà ©dico.  ¿Cà ³mo luce e documento en el que se aprueba el advance parole? Una vez que el USCIS aprueba este permiso, puede lucir de dos formas: El documento que se conoce como I-512Una tarjeta de permiso de trabajo que sirve a su vez como advance parole y asà ­ lo dice el propio documento en la frase serve as I-512 Advance parole.  ¿El permiso de viaje o advance parole garantiza el ingreso a Estados Unidos? La respuesta a esa pregunta es negativa. Y es que siempre hay que tener presente que la à ºltima palabra la tiene el oficial migratorio de la CBP.   Adems, tener en cuenta que las personas que ingresan, que son la mayorà ­a, son consideradas desde el punto de vista migratorio como parolee y, por el contrario, no es un admitted. Esta es una distincià ³n tà ©cnica y jurà ­dica que conviene tener en cuenta.  ¿Cules son las consecuencias de no solicitar el advance parole? Se puede salir de Estados Unidos, pero el problema aparece en el momento en que se quiere regresar. El oficial migratorio puede impedirlo y en ese caso se tendr que esperar fuera de Estados Unidos a que finalice el proceso. Adems, en algunos casos en los que la persona ha estado en Estados Unidos ilegalmente por ms de 180 dà ­as puede saltar el problema aà ±adido del castigo de los tres y de los cinco aà ±os.   Finalmente, otra consecuencia es que se considere que se ha abandonado el trmite migratorio pendiente, con lo cual habrà ­a que iniciarlo de nuevo. Casos distintos al del advance parole, pero similares y que a veces se confunden Hay otros permisos para regresar a los Estados Unidos que no pueden confundirse con el advance parole. Se piden utilizando el mismo formulario pero se marca una casilla diferente. Las personas que tienen el estatus de refugiado o de asilado deben solicitar un documento que se conoce como documento para viajar para refugiados (refugee travel document, en inglà ©s), para estar capacitados para viajar fuera de los Estados Unidos. Los asilados no deben confundir dos situaciones: cuando la peticià ³n de asilo est pendiente, que es un advance parole lo que deben solicitar, y cuando el asilo ha sido aprobado, que se debe solicitar un refugee travel document.   A veces existen confusiones porque se pide utilizando el mismo formulario, el I-131, pero son distintos los documentos que se obtienen. Fijarse bien en el cuadradito que se marca cuando se pide el beneficio. Tambià ©n deben solicitar este documento para viajar los familiares de los refugiados y de los asilados que obtienen este estatus de forma derivada. Por otro lado, con el mismo formulario I-131 puede solicitarse un permiso de reentrada, que es diferente al permiso de viaje o advance parole. El de reentrada es un permiso por el que deben aplicar los residentes permanentes legales o los residentes condicionales que van a pasar ms de un aà ±o. Y es que los residentes tienen la obligacià ³n de residir en los Estados Unidos y tienen que respetar ciertas reglas de tiempos en sus estadà ­as en otros paà ­ses. Por el contrario,un caso completamente distinto es el de los residentes permanentes que sà ³lo tienen la green card estampada en el pasaporte porque todavà ­a no han recibido la de plstico. Estas personas pueden viajar sin necesidad de pedir permiso previo. Parole que pueden pedir las personas que se encuentran en el extranjero para ingresar a USA Un caso completamente distinto es el del parole que piden extranjeros fuera de Estados Unidos para ingresar al paà ­s. Aquà ­ se hace una mencià ³n porque a veces se confunden con el permiso para viajar. Pero son cosas diferentes que aplican a casos distintos. Los casos de parole que se solicitan desde el extranjero son: Por razones humanitarias extraordinarias como razones mà ©dicas o legales, como por ejemplo, testificar en un juicio.Programa de menores centroamericanosPrograma de reunificacià ³n familiar para cubanos y haitianos Conclusià ³n Los extranjeros presentes en Estados Unidos con un proceso migratorio pendiente deben asegurarse antes de viajar a otro paà ­s si para ellos existe el requerimiento de solicitar un advance parole antes de salir. Y eso aplica asà ­ sea para cruzar a Canad o a Mà ©xico a una localidad justo pegada a la frontera con Estados Unidos y por sà ³lo unas horas. Este artà ­culo es meramente informativo. No es asesorà ­a legal.

Does globalisation aggrevate or reduce inequalities between nations Essay

Does globalisation aggrevate or reduce inequalities between nations - Essay Example This is undeniably most relevant in the current state of the world where any economic change cannot be unaccomapined by cultural and social changes in the society. Infact it would not be wrong to say that this has been the trend over the last century where subordinate or colonised society's cultures are infilterated by the dominant economic power. The Australian society stands out as one such example. In the colonisation era, the affect of european culture was consistently observed in autralia up until 1948, and this has now been replaced by a distinctive American influence (which can be attributed to the strong American Economy). However contemporary globalisation is increasingly being associated with trends of inequality and wage distribution diffrences both on an intra nation and on a wider internation scale. These structural political-economic changes are generating greater social-spatial inequalities. As Rober Wade has states; ''Global inequality is worsening rapidly.... Technological change and financial liberalization result in a disproportionately fast increase in the number of households at the extreme rich end, without shrinking the distribution at the poor end.... From 1988 to 1993, the share of the world income going to the poorest 10 percent of the world's population fell by over a quarter, whereas the share of the richest 10 percent rose by 8 percent. The richest 10 percent pulled away from the median, while the poorest 10 percent fell away from the median, falling absolutely and by a large amount.'' - Robert Wade, The London School of Economics, The Economist, 2001 Such analysis of the situation supports the existing hypothesis that globalisation is inextricably linked with inequality. A look at the percapita income bteween countries reveals that an increasing trend of unequality in recent decades. The reports of World bank confirm this trend. For instance, in 1960 the average per-capita GDP in the richest 20 countries in the world was 15 times that of the poorest 20. In 2003 this gap had become 30 times (World Bank 2003). However the question that is inadvertantly would need to be raised is whether this econmic trend reflects greater openness to trade when it has been predicted that openness fosters higher not lower incomes. A historical Perspective The increasing inequality, without doubt is one of the most challenging aspects of the current wave of globalization. None the less it it important to understand the significance of this aspect, in the context of a historical persepective of globalisation. Past several decades or infact phases of globalization have coincided with increasing inequality within countries but an inequlaity between nations was never observed. The world bank has esatblished three phases of glabalisation; the pre world war I, the post world war I and the present phase.The first two phases saw much disparity on an intra nation level but the third world did not catch up with the first world or even with the then existing second world. However increasing technology and communications which are vital part of the 3rd or presnt phase of globalisation has seen what may best be termed as a global and internation effect of trends of liberalisation. If they are far reaching, we do not know, but the nature of this exi siting association shall be discussed further on. The association between globalisation and inequality There are two

Monotheist Religion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Monotheist Religion - Essay Example There, the three monotheist religions concur, God made himself manifest, principally through Moses, the prophet. And they agree that God further revealed himself and his will in other documents: the New Testament and Christ, for Christianity, the Qur’an and Muhammad, for Islam, and the Oral Torah and its sages, for Judaism, respectively. The three monotheisms, further, confront one and the same problem, and the basic logic of monotheism dictates the range of solutions that each of the monotheisms addresses: the problem of God’s justice and mercy and how these are to be reconciled with the condition of the everyday world. A religion of numerous gods finds many solutions to one problem; a religion of only one God presents one to many. Life is seldom fair. Rules rarely work. To explain the reason why, polytheisms adduce multiple causes of chaos, a god per anomaly. Diverse gods do various things, so, it stands to reason, ordinarily outcomes conflict. Monotheism by nature ex plains many things in a single way. One God rules. Life is meant to be fair, and just rules are supposed to describe what is ordinary, all in the name of that one and only God. So in monotheism a simple logic governs to limit ways of making sense of things. But that logic contains its own dialectics. If one true God has done everything, then, since he is God all-powerful and omniscient, all things are credited to and blamed on him. In that case he can be either good or bad, just or unjust but not both. Within that framework, the three monotheisms pursue their distinctive expressions of the common faith in the one and only God, just and merciful, who created the world and made himself known through men of his choice and words of his own selection. (Paul Mojzes, Leonard Swidler, 2002) Judaism and Islam concur that culture and society cohere with religion, so there is no distinction between secularity and religiosity, state and church such as Christianity from Constantine's time forward contemplated. They in particular sustain comparison because they are sufficiently congruent in basic, indicative traits for the exercise to yield revealing contrast: alike, and then not alike, in that order. Both are religions of law, both monotheisms conceive of God in the same terms, both place heavy stress upon the formation of a society that conforms to God's will, expressed in verbal revelation having to do with social norms, and both set forth through jurisprudence an elaborate and articulated message. Different from all other religions Judaism, Christianity, and Islam share a common belief in one, unique God, creator of heaven and earth, whose self-manifestation is achieved through particular prophets, beginning with Moses, continuing, for Christianity and Islam, with Jesus, and ending, for Islam, with Muhammad. So far as Judaism is the religion of the written Torah, Christianity tells the story of Judaism within its own narrative, and Islam takes account of the stories of both Judaism and Christianity. For its part, Judaism in the confrontation with triumphant Christianity and Islam had to take account of the claim of the newcomers to worship the one and only God who made Himself known to holy Israel at Sinai. And Judaism did not classify the new monotheisms as idolatry, which category encompassed all other religions through all time. It follows that the three monotheisms accord recognition to one another, if not always unambiguously and if never enthusiastically. Not only so, bu t all three accord special status to the Hebrew scriptures of ancient Israel. All

Effects of Free

Effects of Free Primary Education Essay The research will investigate the effects of free primary education on learners with diverse needs in the main stream primary schools. (A case of Lilongwe Urban Schools) Identification of a sample of teachers, parents, pupils, schools. Distribution of questionnaires, conduct interviews, and observations. The Data will be conducted from four mainstream primary schools in Lilongwe district. 3. 0. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 3. 1. A statement of search method. Many learners with special educational needs experience a number of challenges in the mainstream primary schools in which in some way or the other prevent them from receiving quality education. (Ministry of Education PIF Document on special needs, 2000) At a conference held at Salamanca in Spain 1994, it was declared that learners with special educational needs acquire education in their home schools. (World Declaration on Education For All, 1990). This meant that they were to be included in the mainstream schools and the schools were supposed to accommodate these learners by providing them with specialized resources so that the children acquire quality education. The introduction of free primary education in Malawi in 1994 posed a threat towards the education of learners with special educational needs in their home schools, because much as it increased access to educational opportunities for all Malawians, it brought many challenges towards the education of learners with special educational needs in mainstream schools and to the ordinary learners as well. (Ministry of Education PIF document 2000). One of the challenges emanating from the implementation of free primary education policy towards the education of learners with special educational needs is overcrowding in schools which lead to poor performance due to poor methods of teaching. Statistics indicates that in 1993, there were about 1. 6 million primary school students in Malawi. However, when free primary education was introduced in 1994, the number of students jumped to over three million (World Bank report 2004). This created a lot of problems, overcrowding in classes made teachers not to consider the needs of learners with special educational needs because there was too much work load. Teachers use poor methods of teaching as a result of overcrowding in classes and lack of resources. Teachers are failing to practice the individualized education plan meant for learners with special educational needs due to increased enrollment rates. (Ministry of Education PIF Document). This results in poor performance, high repetition rates for both learners with special educational needs and the ordinary pupils. It is thus of great importance to asses on how poor methods of teaching is a challenge to the education of learners with special educational needs. Some indications suggest that overcrowding in classrooms is pushing out pupils with special educational needs; an issue which the World Bank (2004) recommends that needs further research. Furthermore, due to overcrowding, survival rates for all learners (ordinary and those with special educational needs) have also been affected. The double/triple shifts are also making it hard for schools to plan for remedial programmes for learners with special educational needs and teachers complain of increased pupil teacher ratios. (Ministry of Education, PIF Document, 2004). Thus, it is the interest of the researcher to further assess the effects of overcrowding in classrooms towards the education of learners with special educational needs. The shortage of teaching resources is also another problem that is making the education of learners with special educational needs difficult. The shortages of teaching and learning aids worsened as a result of the implementation of free primary education. The number of pupils per text book was 2. 9 prior to Free Primary Education, declining to 7. 1 in 1994/5. Even more worrying is the fact that repetition rates are over 20%. (Riddel R. , 2003) What should be noted is that, learners with special educational needs require specialized resources for them to receive quality education. This is expensive and need expertise to use specialized materials. In this case, if the government is failing to provide learning materials for ordinary learners, what more to the provision of teaching and learning materials to learners with special educational needs. The shortage of teachers and recruitment of unqualified and untrained teachers who did not have any knowledge on special needs education was also another recipe for disaster because the needs of learners with special educational needs were not given a priority. (Ministry of Education PIF document 2000). Thus, it is reported by 1997, more than half the teachers were untrained, compared with 13% before the introduction of Free Primary Education. The World Bank Report on effects of free primary education (2004) states that this left learners with special educational needs to struggle to meet the needs of the school and not the schools meeting the needs of learners with special educational needs. As such it is to the interest of the researcher to assess on how this has led to low academic achievement to both learners with special educational needs and ordinary learners. Poor infrastructure is also another area of concern, according to an article by Ligomeka. B. (2000), it is stated that the ambitious plan by the Malawi government to boost its education levels by offering free primary education backfired, largely because of the terrible poor conditions of the country’s primary schools. Ligomeka adds to say that conditions at schools remain terrible; there has been a shortage of classrooms for the pupils, resource centers, teacher’s houses, and toilets for over a decade. The inaccessible physical environment makes it difficult for children with disabilities to survive. ( e. g. poor hygiene in toilets) Additionally, many of the preliminary surveys seem to show that the existing facilities make a mockery of the free education program. As a result, the situation of the teaching force in most of the districts is generally bad. On quality issues, the World Bank Report (2004) states that, the free primary education has produced unintended and unforeseen negative consequences. The reforms that Malawi has come up with have produced some consequences including quality issues which are of concern in Malawi. Whilst the enrolment expansion has been remarkable, the quality of education – and many would say, even the ‘value’ of education – has deteriorated. The question might be; if ordinary pupils are complaining of quality issues, what about the quality of education being offered to learners with special needs? This puts in question for the quality of education being delivered and if the needs of learners with special needs are being met. It is for this reason that the researcher would want to assess the quality of education being offered to learners with special educational needs in the mainstream primary schools with regards to the challenges emanating from the implementation of free primary education. Kadzamira and Rose (as cited at http//www. Introduction of free primary education in sub-Saharan Africa) point to the continued lack of access of some sub-groups (street children, out-of-school youth, those with special needs, orphans. ) who still face problems to meet some of their needs ( such as learning materials, food, accommodation, wheelchairs, hearing aids, and clothes) despite the education being free. As such, this has resulted in a lot of absenteeism, poor performance, a very high repetition rate and dropouts for learners with special educational needs, street children and orphans, because despite the education being free, they still have to meet other expenses such as stationary, uniforms, food, wheel chairs, and other specialized materials. (Ministry of Education PIF document 2000). The researcher therefore, would like to investigate if the needs of the above mentioned subgroups are taken into consideration by the schools. Through the reports, articles and journals, it has been discovered that the effects of free primary education worsened the problems learners with special educational needs were facing in mainstream primary schools. These problems do not only affect learners with special needs but also those without, and this has made/created a lot of learners to fall under special educational needs because their needs are not being met by the education system. In conclusion, there is evidence that free primary education brought challenges towards the education of learners with special educational needs, as such, it will be necessary to find out the extent to which the challenges are making the education of learners with special needs difficult in the mainstream primary schools, so that the feedback can be used to correct deficiencies in the schools. This research will be beneficial to teachers, schools even the researcher herself to diagnose barriers to inclusion hence coming up with strategies to reduce or eradicate the barriers. Definition of Key terms. Mainstream refers to the integration of learners with special educational needs in general education settings (Heward, 2000) Special educational needs refer to learners who require specialized instruction and different levels of support if they are to realize their full human potential, or to facilitate their academic, social, and emotional development. It also includes those coming from poor socio-economic backgrounds. (Heward 2000) Inclusion is the process of accommodating learners with special needs in the general education settings, with support services provided by the school. (Index for inclusion, 2002) Sub-questions What challenges do learners with special educational need face in the mainstream primary schools as a result of free primary education in Malawi? How do the challenges affect education provisions for learners with special educational needs? What support services are provided by parents towards the education of learners with special educational needs? 3. 2. RESEARCH METHODS The research shall be conducted using the survey strategy. 3. 3. Survey Studies Survey studies as pointed out by Cohen (2003) Is another way to get unique material. It is regarded as one of the best tool for collection of data by many scholars. Cohen added that surveys take one or two forms, questionnaires or interviews. During a survey, a researcher can ask people questions in person or draw a written questionnaire, but in either case, it is advised that questions must be phrased carefully so that people can respond easily and clearly. A Gay L. R. etal (2009) state that surveys requires the collection of standardized, quantifiable information from all members of a population or of a sample. It is from the above understanding that the researcher has seen it necessary to use this design, in the collection of data to examine on how the introduction of free primary education has affected the education of learners with special educational needs in terms of human resource, teaching and learning materials, and the quality of education being provided. 3. 4. SOURCES OF EVIDENCE The following instruments will be used for data collection: Questionnaires, interviews, and observations. 3. 4. 1Questionnaire. A questionnaire is a written collection of survey questions to be answered by a selected group of research participants. (Gay L. R. etal). And it is a widely used and useful instrument for collecting survey information. However, Bell (1993) warns that one needs to ensure that the questionnaire is well designed in order to give the researcher the information needed, acceptable to subjects and that will not give problems at the analysis and interpretation stage. The questionnaire will contain both open ended questions and closed questions. Among the advantages of a questionnaire is that it is cheap compared to interviews, and can be used to collect data from a large sample without the researchers presence, and one of the disadvantages is that respondents can delay information and could be difficult to make follow ups. (Cohen, 2003). To minimize errors, the researcher will make sure that questionnaires be taken for supervision before distribution to ensure that they are clear. The researcher shall follow guidelines for writing effective questions, such as avoiding complex questions, avoid irritating questions or instructions, just to mention a few. Cohen (2003). And in this study, a sample of ten teachers and Primary School Education Advisor (PEA) will be given questionnaires. See appendix,( item number 2 a,2b). 3. 4. 2Focused Interviews Interviews are an oral, in person question and answer session between a researcher and an individual respondent. (Gay L. R. etal 2009) Here, the researcher will use focused interviews. Ary D. etal (2002), describes focused interviews as those where the researcher ask questions designed to draw out subjects’ responses on a topic of interest. Subjects are free to answer in their own words rather than having to choose from pre-determined, open ended format, this permits greater flexibility and responsiveness to emerging issues for the participants. Among the advantages of interviews as pointed out by Donald etal (2002) is that, a researcher gets instant feedback, participants are able to ask for clarity, and the researcher probes participants where ever necessary. Donald adds to say that interviews enable an interviewer to get information concerning opinions, beliefs, attitudes and feelings in relation to certain questions. Hence making a researcher acquire rich information from respondents which will make the research to be standard. Nevertheless, the disadvantage of interviews is that it could be time consuming to both the researcher and the participant; it is expensive in terms of travel costs and materials, besides it is also difficult for individuals to articulate their feelings in a one to one interview. As such focused interviews will be conducted with head teachers, experienced teachers (those with over 16 years experience), parents, ordinary learners, and learners with special educational needs. The researcher shall prepare a list of standardized questions ahead of time and shall be taken for supervision to minimize errors. Furthermore, the researcher will make herself available at a time that is convenient for the respondents. The researcher shall begin by sending a letter of Identification, requesting an interview with the Primary School Education Advisor (PEA), head teachers, teachers, parents and pupils and specify the sort of information needed. See appendix ( item no. 1. a,1. b, 1. c, 1. d) 3. 4. 3Observations. Cohen (2003), states that observation data are attractive as they afford the researcher the opportunity to gather â€Å"live† data from â€Å"live† situation. The researcher will observe, teaching methods, attitude of teachers and peers, classroom organization, and availability of resources. Cohen continues to say that observation makes data to be reliable and generalization can be made. Stringer (2004) also points out that observations principle purpose is to familiarize researchers with the context in which issues and events are played out, however, Gay R.L. (2009) warns that researchers that when obtaining observations there should be objectives, unbiased and accurate in the sense that the observer has avoided influencing the behavior of respondents. The disadvantage of observation according to Alkins Encyclopedia of Education Research (1992) is that it more naturalistic and researchers are not constrained by what is in a checklist or rating scale. If an observation is well planned and carried out, it can give both qualitative and quantitative data. Observation has limitations on bias to an extent that the individual perceptions and interpretations of the observer, influenced by previous experience, affect the recording of the behavior, (ibid p. 271). However, the researcher will be aware of this problem so that learners with special educational needs be observed thoroughly in order to detect their difficulties which they face in mainstream primary schools. Observations shall be carried out in all the primary schools. See appendix (item no. 3). 3. 5. Population Sample This involves identification of a sample of schools, teachers, parents, and pupils, from the schools. Three mainstream primary schools in Lilongwe urban will be selected for the collection of data. Schools will be selected based on their experience in the education of learners with special educational needs. Teachers shall be selected according experience (those with more than 16 years experience prior to the introduction of free primary education). Pupils will be selected based on their age and class. (Will start from standard 3 up to 8 and within the age range of 9-15) the Primary School Education Advisor will also be contacted to answer a few questions and parents will be selected based on proximity (those living around the school and available). A total of six Learners with special educational needs and six ordinary learners will be interviewed from each school, will al so be interviewed, a total of eight teachers will be given questionnaires and two teachers will be interviewed, all the head teachers will be interviewed, and Observations by the researcher will also be carried out in all schools. The reason behind this sample is: To find out teacher perceptions on how free primary education has undermined the quality of education being offered to learners with special educational needs. To know how involved parents are in the education of their children. To find out from learners on the challenges they face in the classroom and how this is affecting their academic achievement. To find out from Primary school Education Advisor if the government is aware of such problems and necessary measures are taken to minimize the effects. 4. 5DATA ANALYSIS Data analysis is one of the things the prepared researcher needs to consider. It involves filing and organizing data collected (Cohen 2003). Gay etal (2009) add to say that the planning of data analysis will need to consider the organization, accounting for and explaining the data; It indicates what needs to be done with the data when they have been collected and how will the data be processed and analyzed, additionally, it shows how the results of the analysis will be verified, cross-checked and validated. (Bell 1993). In analyzing data, the researcher will re- write notes as soon as possible after making a set of observation. Full notes shall be typed and two copies of the notes shall be produced so that the other copy should act as a backup. The files shall be created in chronological order of events including notations of the dates and times they were made. Ultimately, observations shall be analyzed and interpreted to find the underlying meaning in the things observed. And the organization and filing of notes is the first step in discovering that meaning. (Donald A, etal 2002) All the results from different participants shall be analyzed and interpreted cordially, and data will be presented in the form of tables, type written text and charts. 3. 6Reliability and Validity According Kubiszyn T. etal (1996), reliability refers to an extent where similar results are obtained from different samples and after using different methods of data collection. Cohen (2003), states that validity is an important key to effective research, because if a piece of research is invalid then it is worthless. He further points out that that validity of research results refers to the extent where the research measures what it was intended to measure. The extent of triangulation is also another form of validity. To ensure reliability, the researcher, will use different tools of data collection, use standardized questions in both questionnaires and interviews and will make sure that the questions should be in line with the research question to ensure validity. 3. 7 LIMITATIONS Ethical issues, travel cost and time will be taken as some of the barriers to this study, nevertheless, ways will be found to deal with these problems. To overcome the problem of travel costs, the researcher started saving money meant for this purpose, where there will be a shortage, it will be required to ask for funds from guardians. To deal with ethical issues, the researcher will try by all means to be careful in the use of language so as not to harm participants psychologically because this might affect the outcome. The researcher will also take the interview and questionnaire questions for supervision to make sure that language used does not offend the participants. In the case of time, where the researcher will be on a short holiday and at the same time collecting data, appointments for interviews, observations and distribution of questionnaires. The researcher shall make herself available at a time convenient to the participants. Prompts/follow up shall be made in the case of questionnaires so that all the data should be ready before the holiday ends. To avoid doubts from participants, a letter of identification shall be obtained from the Special Needs Department of the Catholic University of Malawi. People will be assured of privacy and the research shall seek parental/teacher consent before interviewing learners below the age of fifteen. REFERENCE Ary Donald. Lucy Cheser Jacobs. Asghar Razaviah. (2002), Introduction to Research in Education, Thomson Learning, Belmet. Bell J (1993), Doing your Research Project. A guide for first research in Education and social science. Suffolk, st Edmunds bury press. Cohen L. etal (2003). Research Methods in Education. Prentice-hall Inc, New York. EFA Global Monitoring Report @ http:// www. EFA report @ unesco. org. Gay L. R. , Geoffrey E. Mills, Peter Airasian. (2009), Educational Research Competencies for Analysis and Applications. Pearson Education, Inc; New Jersey. Heward W. L. (2000). Exceptional Children: an introduction to special education. Prentice-hall, New York. (http://www. aft. org/research/rel-site. htm) (http: //www. World Bank report on effects of free primary education. org. ) Riddell R. (2003) The introduction of Free Primary Education in Sub-Saharan Africa Report. Ministry of Education (PIF document on Special Needs Education in Malawi, 2000) IRINA MANJOMO CALENDAR FOR DESSERTATION MONTH YEAR DATE ACTIVITY JUNE-2010 15-20 25-30 Writing letters to institutions where data will be corrected. Distribution of questionnaires for data collection and making appointments for interviews JULY -2010 Data collection, Data analysis and data entry. AUGUST- 2010 1-17 Data analysis and entry. 18-23 Editing analysed data, submission. 24-25 Meeting the supervisor 25-31 Literature Review SEPTEMBER-2010 3-13 Writing of chapter two (Lit. Review) begins ends 14-15 Meeting the supervisor 16-19 corrections 22-29 Writing of chapter III submission 29-30 Meeting the supervisor OCTOBER-2010 1-4 Corrections 7-14 Writing chapter IV submission 15 Meeting the supervisor 15-17 Corrections 19-25 Writing Chapter V and VI submission 26-27 Meeting the supervisor 28-30 Corrections NOVEMBER-2010 2-9 Writing Ch. 1 submission 11-14 Meeting supervisor corrections 16-21 22-23 Writing first Draft of Dissertation submission corrections DECEMBER-2010 24-30 1-3 Writing 2nd Draft of Dissertation submission 5-7 Meeting supervisor JANUARY-2011 Making Corrections on the Dissertation draft FEBRUARY-2011 13-18 Defending the Dissertation 21-23 Making corrections submission MARCH-2011 1-3 Meeting the supervisor 3-20 Making final corrections on the Dissertation Draft. APRIL- 2011 Writing the final copy of the Dissertation begins and ends. MAY-2011 16-23 submission to the supervisor

Abraham Lincoln Essay -- biography bio biographies

Abraham Lincoln's effectiveness as president of the United States was so great that in all these years, and those before his time, no president has ever come close to equaling his achievements. Lincoln is known as a humble, honest man whose presidency irrevocably altered our society. He took office in a time of turmoil for our growing nation. During his administration he fought and won the bloodiest war in our history. Lincoln also passed through congress the most monumental piece of legislation for social change in our history.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  As social and economic differences plagued our nation, Lincoln sought above all else to preserve the Union. As the south seceded from the Union, became the Confederate States, and the Civil War began ‘Honest Abe' held onto his goal. With fighting resolve through the battles of Bull Run, Antietam, and Gettysburg Lincoln switched generals seeking the best leaders for his troops. He then appointed Ulysses S. Grant who led the Northern armies to victory and enabled President Lincoln to preserve the Union. If Lincoln had let the south go without a fight, lost the war, or taken advantage of the south's surrender, America as we now know it would not exist.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  On January 1st 1863 the Emancipation Proclamation was put into effect, freeing all slaves in the rebellious southern states. Lincoln wanted the United States to be viewed seriously by other nations and thought that slavery was primitive and wrong. With the Emancipation Proclamation he free...

Romanticized Idealism

This is the story of Madam Bovary who approaches life with a novelistic, imaginative and idealistic approach.   This Character from her conduct reflect her own personality more and the fact her being a wife seems less associated with her vision of life. Emma, as her name was, was used to living in imaginary world either trying to create fantasy filled perfect life or stays longing for it. This never ending search lead to her to shape a unreal world around her and when eventually she faced the real life left her disappointed. The unimpressive character of her husband and his disinterest in Emma’s personality having an admiration of her physical beauty only, made her deject life and happiness completely. She wanted to romanticize every day of her life and once married her dreams stayed unfulfilled and left her desires burning inside her heart.   Emma seems to have an obvious character flaw that is her over romanticism leading her life to be discontent. She tried to love her husband but her emotions directed by her vision of an adventurous life ended her even more unhappy. She from her living pattern had the tendency to get bored with the monotony of life and had always looked for change. Charm and comfort of a wealthy life attracts her she was obsessed by the idea of having luxuries and facilities. She blamed her husband for discomfort and simple life. The modern day psychologists suggests that the reason behind these behaviors of characters in literature is to depict how the nature of any one is shaped by its heredity and psychological transformation is an evolutionary process, as a result the authors realizing this human psychic narrate the whole effect from their perspective to make people notice and solve few social problems (David P. Barash, Nanelle R. Barash, 2005). She feels her middle class, simple husband and modest home being responsible for her unhappiness and fails to understand that her unsatisfied nature causes her unease and memoirs of her initial life at farm and convent could never make her forget her past life. Emma's incompetence at being a wife according to the bourgeois habitus allows her to expand her competence as a woman by following the hexis of her female body. (Roland A. Champagne, 2002) Themes of the Madam Bovary Gustave Flaubert has attempted to use the theme of fate with several ambiguous interpretations of romanticism, greed, mockery and deception within the novel. The flaws possessed by different characters have been highlighted. Madam Bovary, as it appears, could be considered the most unlikable personification of a character but as we look at the behavior and conduct of each character we find that each of them contributes their share of encouragement that leads Emma to forget everything and follow her instincts. Its an established fact that ‘Fate’ is considered to the cause of greatest misfortunes a human faces, but when a woman due to her immaturity, lack of insight in life, inability to think critically and analyze situations end up destroying not only her own life but the life of her entire family, blaming fate seems quite an irrational explanation. When a man as experienced and cultured as her lover who deceived her just when she was about to elope with him tries to stand fate as responsible for him using her it’s not acceptable. Her husband, Mr. Charles was nothing but a naà ¯ve. He was no doubts a dull and useless man when it was the time to study   and try to learn the skills he wasted his time and missed classes consequently he proved to be a bad doctor and filled his own and his family’s life with misery. He was not living life merely passing time and seemed to have no interest in any thing. He is unintelligent so much so that despite of his mother and neighbors knowing that his wife is involved in extra-marital affairs, he couldn’t sense that, not even for a second. He failed to provide Emma not the kind of life she wanted but even couldn’t make her trust his love by making her feeling proud of him. This gulf of interest her husband possessed about everything in his life made Emma positive about her quest for a free life where she dreams to have everything she longs. Despite some idle cant about high ideals, what clearly attracts her is the artifice of this urban milieu, the ornate trappings and material excess. (Peter Gay, 1999) Romanticism of this lady contributed great for her own unhappiness. She had the tendency of looking at everything with a novelistic approach. A wish to make things perfect completely denying the realities of life and accepting them to normalize her life like every other human being tends to do. She has extremisms in her approach, when she wanted to pray she tried to become a complete devout, when she wanted to love she made it to the limits including her death was also a result of her uncontrolled attitude towards life. In the translated version of Madam Bovary: How false or perverted values debase and dehumanize those who hold such values. Emma Bovary idealizes romance, believing flirtation, trysts, secret letters, and gala balls are the the pith, the very soul, of love. She also prizes things–money, chic fashions, sumptuous surroundings, the tinkle of crystal. The dinner-dance she attends in Rouen is a microcosm of the haut monde in which she wants to live. (Eleanor Marx-Aveling) When a person is not responsible it’s too easy to take advantage of this attitude and its gets quite simple to deceive him. When Charles wife found such an attitude in her husband she availed the opportunity and tried to deceive him in every possible way. Deception lead a relationship to disastrous ends, her adultery for so long had been hidden by her husband, she with perfect mastery concealed her actions and not for once her husband even thought about his wife’s unfaithfulness. He didn’t try to keep a check on her not because very husband should suspect his wife but because a person is suppose to take care of those him or her loves, to protect them and be aware of their happiness. Greed is an evil force that makes men do anything in his power to satisfy it. The characters around Madam Bovary like Lheureux, who this sharp mind and understanding identified her nature and use her weakness to maximize his wealth. He had a liking for Charles property and he made it easy for Madam Bovary to take loans from him. He encouraged   her to make purchases and continued accumulating this debt till the day when   he could claim everything she had, thus leaving her frustrated and incapable to pay her debt with the guilt of causing her herself destruction. Emma had the false believe of associating happiness with wealth. She had a belief that money could buy happiness, she was extremely materialistic. Her exposure of balls and rich people made her illusionary life more idealized. She wants everything around her to be perfect.   She used to spend lavishly over useless things just to possess all expensive stuff. She had an obsession of stuffing her house with all the articles that were priced high. She used to spend too much on her lovers, who later turned her down when she needed them. Materialistic approach could not help inner emptiness. Emma’s self-centeredness and quixotic perception of reality cause her to ignore her child, deceive her husband, surrender to promiscuity and go so deeply in debt that she offers her body in payment. (Michael J. Cummings, 2004) Early in the story there is a ball at a grand house — an episode that awakes in Emma a dangerous taste for the high life. (Clive James, 2004) The mockery of her lovers who used her for their pleasure was destructive. Despite knowing the fact that she had a weak character they approached her. The insincerity of those lovers was never obvious for Emma, for she had a habit of living in her own imaginary world where everything had to be the way she wanted. She treated real life as being a spectator never enjoy the taste of reality and accept it to let happiness touch her soul. The lovers, they made her fool by using her while making her believe their love and when she needed them, they ran. She was an obvious stupid but in her conduct was not insincere. She was so fond of beauty, luxury, fantasized life and romance that she made herself vulnerable to the mockery of rich and cunning men around her.   One of her lover, in his trial to seduce her said: Does not this conspiracy of the world revolt you? Is there a single sentiment it does not condemn? The noblest instincts, the purest sympathies are persecuted, slandered; and if at length two poor souls do meet, all is so organized that they cannot blend together. Yet they will make the attempt; they will flutter their wings; they will call upon each other. Oh! No matter. Sooner or later, in six months, ten years, they will come together; will love; for fate has decreed it, and the yare born one for the other. (Gustave Flaubert, 1856) Fate no doubt dictates what happens in life but human beings being superiors to all the other creatures just because they posses mind have the capability to survive in even the worst circumstances caused by fate. Realistic approach towards things in life make people fight with great calamities. Women should have enough education so that they may understand themselves and the society, identify their potentials and exploit their possibilities. Given any of the consequences, man is capable enough to fight his fate and make impossibilities vanish from his life. Flaubert was tried on charges of immorality stemming from the publication of the novel; successfully defended him self arguing that the death of Emma shows the novel's upholding of morality and illustrates the consequences of sin. (Dr. Fidel Fajardo-Acosta, 2001) The story ends with Emma committing suicide. Her illusionary vision of life, yearn for pleasure   and comfort, need for dramatic romance made her blind to the welfare of her family, vulnerable to mockery of those who used her just for their pleasure and incapable of understanding the love of her husband who despite of having flaws in his character loved her sincerely. Discovery of her betrayal took her husbands life and left their daughter suffers alone in the whole world with a childhood started as a labor. About the book reviewers write: Consolation and a sense of proportion, a revulsion against chaos, a taste for life.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The fictional suffering neutralized the suffering I was experiencing in real life. (Mario Vargas Llosa,1975) Perhaps we identify with Emma because we too feel emptiness at the center of things — an emptiness we try to fill with books, with fantasies, with sex, with things. Her yearning is nothing more or less than the human condition in the modern world. (Erica Jong, 1997) References Acosta, Fajardo, Fidel. (2001) World Literature Website 2001. Retrieved March 24, 2008 from, http://fajardo-acosta.com/worldlit/flaubert/bovary.htm Aveling, Marx, Eleanor.( February 25, 2006). EBook #2413. Retrieved March 24, 20008, from,http://www.gutenberg.org/catalog/world/readfile?fk_files=223754 Barash, P. David. Barash, R. Nanelle. (2005) Madame Bovary’s Ovaries: a Darwinian Look at Literature. Retrieved (March 26, 2008). Fromhttp://denisdutton.com/barash_review.htm Champagne, A.   Roland, (2002). Emma's Incompetence as Madame Bovary Retrieved March 24, 2008 from, http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1034/j.1600-0730.2002.570202.x Cummings J. Michael (2004). A study Guide, Retrieved March 24, 20008, from, http://www.cummingsstudyguides.net/Guides3/Bovary.html#Type Flaubert, Gustave.(1856). Madame Bovary James,Clive. (2004). No Way, Madame Bovary. Retrieved (March 24, 2008). from, http://www.powells.com/review/2004_10_05.html Jong, Erica. (Sept. 15, 1997). Retrieved March 24, 2008 from, http://www.salon.com/sept97/bovary970915.html Llosa, Vargas, Mario. (1975) THE PERPETUAL ORGY   Flaubert and Madame Bovary. Peter Gay, (1999). Madame Bovary. Retrieved (March 24, 2008). From, http://brothersjudd.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/reviews.detail/book_id/327 ; ;

Operation Gomorrah Essay

â€Å"Operation Gomorrah† Ingram recalls her childhood experiences of war within her home city of Hamburg, Germany. The writing techniques and detailed descriptions within the autobiographical narrative reflect Ingram’s sensitive nature and the emotional link she has to her childhood because of this traumatic event. â€Å"I was eight years old and a respectful, obedient child. But one day in late July my mother asked me to do something and I disobeyed her, and I shall be forever glad that I did.†(Marione Ingram 123) Usually a boy who is only 8 years old should be naughty and mischievous. However, at the beginning of the story, the author tells us that he was thought to be a respectful, obedient child by others. The plot that Ingram does not want to sent his baby sister Renate to his cousin’s apartment (123) indicate that Ingram has his own thoughts, has his likes and dislikes. But he is so sensitive that he cares too much about what others think. He loves his mother, he does not willing to let her down. So, although he does not want to go outside from within, he tried (123). We can imagine that how much joy and pleasure of childhood he has lost to force himself to live up to this reputation to be respectful and obedient. This is too cruel to this little boy. But he was thrilled to be outdoors (123). At that moment, there must have been an intense internal conflict in his heart. On the one hand, he does not willing to destroy his reputation to be obedient as well as let his mother down, but on the other hand, he cannot manage to overcome his internal fears. After a struggle, he turned back and then began to hurry to home (123). When he thought back to the whole story, he found that if he had followed his mother’s direction to carry his baby sister to his cousin’s apartment and he himself stayed there, he would not have experienced the great disaster: the Operation Gomorrah. For the obedient child, he regrets for his whole life for that only one resist. His sensitive makes him a person who always thinks too much. That he always considers the feelings of others, regrets the past and be worried about the future makes him a shilly-shally and inner-turmoiled person. Ingram states â€Å"I pulled mother away from the stove, tugging first one limp arm and then the other. I managed to get her head and a shoulder into the  dining room†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (124) â€Å"I was sitting on the floor with her head in my lap, trying to think what to do, when coming from the bottom of the stairwell where I’d left the pram I could hear the faint sounds of my baby sister’s whimpering†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (124) â€Å"There were no air raids to disturb us, though I woke up often to see if she was still unconscious†¦ † (125). When his mother was ill, the 8-year-old lithe boy took the responsibility of taking care of his mother and his baby sister. His behavior described in this part gave me the feeling of unreal. He took care of his mother and baby sister so carefully that he can even hear the faint sounds of his baby sister’s whimpering from the bottom of the stairwell. He was worried about his mother and baby sister and tomorrow’s l ife, so he woke up often during that night. It is totally not like a little boy’s behavior. All of these plots indicate that Ingram has subtle nerves. He is sensitive to environment. â€Å"I looked at mother and I understood† (Marione Ingram 125). What did this little boy understand from two adults’ conversation? At first reading I do not understand what he got. But then I understood that Inge was reluctant to help them during that desperate situation. From Inge’s talk, emotion and action, he and his mother understood the key point. He is so smart and sensitive to things. His sensitivity inspires his thinking. He is good at observation and analysis. I have to admire the little boy’s understanding. But the little boy did not show any unhappiness or lose his temper about his cousin’s attitude. He was so quiet just keep his thought in his mind. As for the disaster, Marion Ingram used abundant detail description to show the chaos scene. He describes his former playmate like this â€Å"She was holding her favorite doll, holding it tight and turning slightly away as if she feared I might try to snatch it from her†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (127). The description showed a girl’s behavior in desperate situation vividly. There are also many environmental descriptions during the bombing. â€Å"A false dawn lit the southeastern sky, rouging mother’s cheeks and painting the walls of buildings on our side of the street a lurid red†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (128). At one point between life and death, Ingram still have one part of his heart concerning his mothers’ emotion and remember forever. When he was in his mother’s arm, he was observing how other people trying to survive. â€Å"Then a woman carrying  an infant came running down the street along the same route we had taken. She was followed by a young man dressed in the khaki shorts and shirt of a Hitler Youth. I thought they must be fleeting from a bomb shelter that had been damaged, possibly the one mother had been heading for when we first left our apartment building†¦ † (131). There are abundant psychological and action descriptions. â€Å"I thought they must be fleeting from a bomb shelter that had been damaged†¦Ã¢â‚¬ (131). â€Å"I thought his difficulty might be the hot wind roaring down the avenue in front of us and almost expected to see him lifted up as he ran†¦Ã¢â‚¬ (131). â€Å"I thought I could hear their screams and ducked down into the crater with my eyes closed and my hands oter my ears.† (131). â€Å"When it seemed that I was about to suffocate, I pulled the blanket away and stuck up my head†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (131-132). â€Å"When I closed my eyes it felt as if we were lying between railroad tracks while an endless train rumbled over us so swiftly†¦Ã¢â ‚¬  (132). All these descriptions are so fine, specific and smooth that almost give us a movie picture. Sensitive and delicate as he is, he is able to remember every single detail, every change in emotion, every piece of his thought. In conclusion, Marione Ingram concludes abundant detail descriptions in this essay that even gave readers the feeling that this story is not his own story. In this way, the author shaped a sensitive character from different point of view. And because of his sensitive nature, he is also a shilly-shally person who always suffers intense inner struggle, he is a good thinker and observer which made him a good writer, he is a very kind person who would consider for others at every minutes.

Exploratory report on corporate Strategic Approaches of McDonalds Corporation

Exploratory report on corporate Strategic Approaches of McDonalds Corporation Introduction Strategic management is about establishing visions and missions of a company. The missions and visions provide the direction to the company concerned and help it defines its position in the market amidst stiff competition from other industry players (Brubaker, 2005).Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Exploratory report on corporate Strategic Approaches of McDonalds Corporation specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Corporate strategy management is viewed as the best way through which a company can easily establish a competitive edge over competitors. The role of establishing the mission and the vision of the company is the sole responsibility of the top management, but for these missions and visions to be fully acceptable, all levels of managements and employees in general should be involved in a way in the process (Mourier and Smith, 2001). Once formulated the mission and the vision should be communicated clea rly to the employees for implementation. This report aims at presenting the findings of an investigation that was carried out to find out the process involved in the formulation of the corporate strategies at McDonalds corporation, the worlds leading Fast Food Franchise Corporation. The report also establishes the areas of their applications, levels of strategies that a company can employ and the implication of these strategies on the companys well-being. Overview of the company reviewed McDonalds Corporation prides itself as the leading global fast food chain with a special appeal among many residents of America for its burgers and french fries. The company started off in 1954 and has since grown many branches that are spread in all states of the United States of America as well as in other continents. Today, McDonalds serves millions of hungry customers across the globe through its franchised and fully owned branches.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? L et's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The path to McDonalds success has been shaped by its creativity and innovativeness that has made it remain focused to a particular market segment. Although there is nothing much to be differentiated in a fast food restaurant, McDonalds has over the years defied this and has always come up with innovative products that has seen the chain gain continued revenues. Among the most innovative products to have ever been produced by this chain were Big Mac and Egg Muffin whose market response was positively overwhelming. The chain is also famed for its innovative tag of Happy Meal which was essentially useful in pooling children into eating at McDonalds. From the short overview of the company; it is evident that McDonalds has a way of doing things in a sharp contrast of what others in the fast foods industry do. It is this uniqueness portrayed by McDonalds that the report seeks to examine. Scope The in vestigation was done on McDonalds as it is a company with a national and international outlook. The reasons for the selection of this business included intense competition that exists in the fast food industry. This competition has led to the need of extensive research and development of advanced corporate strategies to counter the competition and to establish a strong presence in the market. Therefore, McDonalds provides a good source of information on the study of corporate strategies, their applicability, their usefulness as well as their role in business success. Report Structure The report will be presented in the following manner: first we will discuss the scope of corporate strategy, then the level of corporate strategies, process of formulation of these strategies, areas of application of these strategies and the importance of these strategies to the business before giving a final summary in form of a conclusion. All these issues will be discussed in regard to McDonalds Inc. Scope of corporate strategies Corporate strategy planning involves the process of formulating corporate missions and visions. The missions define the main purpose of the corporate body. They give an overview of the companys intent and the reasons for its existence. Missions give a big picture of what the company aims to achieve in both the short-term and in the long run.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Exploratory report on corporate Strategic Approaches of McDonalds Corporation specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The visions on the other hand are aimed at explaining what the company aims to achieve in the long run. This can be either to be a market leader or to be a low cost leader in the market in the foreseeable future (Saunders, Lewis, and Thornhill, 2006). The visions should be formulated in a way that leads to the achievement of the mission of the corporate body on the implementation. The process of corporate s trategy formulation should also take into account the goals the corporate body aims to achieve. The goals define what the company aims to achieve in the short term. Other issue to take into consideration is the objectives the company aims to achieve. Strategies should be formulated to help the company achieve its missions, visions, objectives and goals. Factors shaping McDonalds’ competition McDonalds operates within a highly competitive market. Due to this high competition, every player in this industry must formulate survival tactics that shall ensure that the firm remains sustainable within the competing market. With little restriction on entry of new players and little sunk cost being required for an investor to invest in this industry, strategies are of critical importance for a firms business survival. To clearly understand the competitive forces that face this company, two major tools of analysis shall be utilized. The two tools shall prove of vital importance especial ly in indicating the position of the company in regard to internal and external environments. It is from this internal and external environment positions that the strategies for success are to be formulated. These tools are; Porter’s five forces SWOT analysis Porters five analysis Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Bargaining Power of Buyers In the fast food industry, the bargaining power of buyers is relatively small. This is because food is a necessity and thus one has to buy it. However, due to increased competition, the bargaining power of buyers has constantly been increasing. One can opt to purchase from another fast food restaurant which makes the issue of bargaining power of buyers be of critical importance to McDonalds. Potential Entrants Threats from new entrants are rife in this market. There are little restrictions that may hinder an investor from entering into fast food industry. The industry lacks government restrictions which makes it easy for any entrant to start operating in the market. Besides this, the initial startup cost especially sank cost is little and thus there are many new entrants into the fast food industry. To avoid this threat, McDonald must remain abreast in strategic management to ensure that it remains relevant to its customers. Substitutes Substitute products also cause a major threat to McDonalds. Customers have a wide variety of fast food restaurants to choose from and thus strategic management at McDonalds remain of critical importance to ensure that innovative strategies meant to retain customers are put in place. Suppliers There is little bargaining power of suppliers in the fast food industry. These therefore do not pose any threat to the sustainability of the firm. From the porters five analysis, it is important to note that strategic management remains of critical importance in the management of MacDonald’s. It is through formulation of various strategies that makes the chain remain relevant to the market. SWOT Analysis To further the understanding of the strategies that are used by McDonalds to ensure that it remains relevant in the market, an audit of both external and internal forces that are relevant in business process was conducted. The results of this audit have been tabulated as follows. External Audit Opportun ities Threats Globalization and expansion to various countries Growing awareness of the side effects/calorie content of fast foods Acquisitions of other fast food restaurants Growing competition from local and international competitors General growth of fast food industry Growth of anti American sentiments in some markets Cost leadership advantages Global recession and fluctuating currency Internal Audit Strengths Weaknesses The company has an established brand name Possess an unhealthy food image Enjoys a large market share Has very high staff turnover Enjoys unrivaled global presence in the industry Legal charges on health issues Strong financial performance Uses materials that causes contributes to global warming Centric and seamless customer service Does not serve breakfast in its menu. Analysis of the market share Despite its operation in a highly competitive industry, the company enjoys an impressive market share compared to its competitors. At 19 pe rcent, McDonalds remains the undistinguished giant of the fast food industry. For the firm to gain this market leadership position there must be well defined strategies that have overseen its growth to this position. The chart below indicates the market share of McDonalds compared to its competitors. From the chart, it is evident that its closest competitors such as Burger King Corporation, Wendy International Inc., Jack in the Box among others are way too far down to be put to the scale of the giant McDonalds Corporation. Chart available at https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUOtdd5AtAEFCvegA02095Fo5Fe1215wwAxkj9JBxT3KDtwlamTtADp6hbvPp-IY6qnGVuyn35kYoQASGwJNyjgn0gSHZs1hQVJb0dJG6T9AEPRd6g3Hl3zssn8OYWvIIQL4WGamrAAsob/s1600/Fast_Food_Industry_Markets.jpg Strategies followed by McDonalds to establish a competitive edge The investigation revealed that McDonalds establishes a competitive edge through following one or all of the following strategies: Low cost leadership McDonalds is known for its low cost on various meals. To achieve this, the company must ensure that its operating costs a re equally low to guarantee profitability. Fixed cost per unit in the company is reduced by the reduction in overall cost, which could be used to give them an advantage over other industry players. This advantage is attained in some cases through offering low prices than other industry players at the same quality level or by charging premium prices that help them generate high profits. These profits in turn are used by the business to produce high quality products that meet the needs of customers better than the competitors (Porter, 1980; Wankel, and Malleck, 2008). In this way the company is able to position itself as the market leader and customers choice in provision of fast food services. Price leadership strategy McDonalds also uses price leadership as a strategy to woe its customers. Most of the products at McDonalds have premium prices which makes it appealing to the major target markets. The strategy also is boosted by low cost policy that the company has utilized over the y ears. Differentiation strategy This strategy was found to be highly employed by the company. The aim of this strategy was to give a notion to the buyer that the product offered by the company was different from that offered by the competitor and offered better features than any other similar product in the market. The strategy is mainly employed through packaging and the design of the product (Treacy, 2005; Swift and Piff, 2005). Trendy names are also used by the company to brand its food that makes it appealing to the populace. Through successful differentiation, the company in question is able to charge premium prices for its premium products, develop further market for its product and to maintain its current market for its products (Purcell, 2008; Stanton, 2007) Market Niche Strategy Customers are generally known to have diversified needs which are very dynamic in nature. To meet all these needs, a great challenge to any company for this requires application of large amount of re sources both financial and human. Therefore, to satisfy all these needs a company should devise a way to understand the needs, know their likely direction of change and the best way to meet them. At McDonalds, this strategy aims at understanding a particular need of the customer and trying to meet this need better than the competitors. Therefore, instead of dealing with a varied area of needs, the company in question concentrates on the few areas of need. For instance, McDonalds does not serve breakfast, instead it focuses on the lunch market as well as dinner clients, with lunchtime clients topping its list. Due to this concentration of market niche, the chain is able to meet the needs of customers better and therefore able to establish a competitive advantage over competitors (Hatton, 2007; Swift and Piff, 2010) Strategy formulation For McDonalds to remain competitive in the market there is a need to have a strategic plan towards its future success. Since its inception in 1954, Mc Donalds has remained a household name among many Americans as well as among the populations where its international franchise outlets operate. This therefore indicates that there is something that McDonalds do that is not done by some of its competitors. The company strategies are formulated by following the following steps Identification of the current position of the business The process of strategy formulation starts with identifying the current position of the business. This helps the business to identify the strength, weaknesses, opportunities and threats it faces as a result of both internal and external environment of its operation (Conger, 2008). The result of this analysis is usually compared with other industrial players to help identify the position of the business in relation to the similar businesses in the industry. This analysis also helps the business to identify the gap that need to be addressed. Define the missions of the company Once the company has identified its position in relation to other industrial players, the next step is to state exactly what it intends to achieve in the long run (Waters, 1994). The mission was found to be formulated with the aim of positioning the company in the marketplace. In the process of defining this mission, one question remains critical to McDonalds, does the chain live to its mission day in day out? This helps the firm to remain focused on the mission of the firm that has driven the firm to its current success status. Defining the vision of the company The vision is derived from the mission of the company. This vision also helps define the direction of the company by stating what the company aims to achieve in the long run. The vision also helped define the activities of all employees to be in line with the missions and visions of the company. Establishment of goals to be achieved. Once missions and visions are established, the next step involves the establishment of goals to be achieved. These goals broke down the missions and visions into components that can easily be achieved on a daily basis. Achievement of these goals contributes to the achievement of the overall missions and visions of the company. Formulation of strategies Finally strategies are formulated in different areas and levels to help in the achievement of company’s missions and visions. Conclusion From this study, it was established that McDonalds have succeeded due to its unique strategic formulation of success policies that have constantly ensured that the company remained focused to its core objectives. The company also has survived in the fast food industry, which is highly fragile due to its unique differentiation strategy. It is through these unique approaches that McDonalds has remained a focused firm to succeed. Reference List Brubaker, D., (2005). The charismatic leader: the presentation of self and the creation of educational settings. New York: Corwin Press. Conger, J., (2008). Charismatic leadershi p in organizations. New York: Sage. Dunis, D., (2003). Applied quantitative methods for trading and investment. New York: John Wiley and Sons, Hatton, A., (2007). The definitive business pitch: how to make the best pitches, proposals and presentations. New York: Prentice hall. Mourier, P. Smith, M. (2001). Conquering Organizational Change: How to Succeed Where Most Companies Fail. San Antonio: Project Management Institute. Porter, M.. (1980). Competitive Strategy. New York: Free Press. Purcell, J., (2008. People Management and Performance. New York: Taylor Francis. Saunders, M., Lewis, P., and Thornhill, A., 2006. Research Methods for Business Students. 4th ed. London: Prentice Hall. Stanton, E. (2007). Marketing Management. New York: McGraw-Hill. 2007. Swift, L. and Piff, S., (2005). Quantitative Methods for Business, Management Finance. 2nd ed. London: Palgrave MacMillan. Porter, M., (1984). Competitive Advantage. New York: The Free Press. Swift, L. and Piff, S., (2010). Quanti tative Methods: For Business, Management and Finance. London: Palgrave Macmillan. Treacy, W., (2005).The Discipline of Market Leaders. New Jersey: Addison Wesley. Wankel, C. and Malleck, S., (2008). Global sustainability initiatives: new models and new approaches. New York: IAP. Print. Waters, D., (1994). Quantitative methods for business. London: Addison-Wesley.

5 Points to Hit in Your Resignation Letter

5 Points to Hit in Your Resignation Letter Dear boss:I quit. Love, meWhile this note cuts to the chase, it’s not ideal. Your resignation letter should have a number of elements in it to ensure that your transition out is as smooth as possible, and that it sets you up for your next phase. Here are five elements your resignation letter should include.1. The factsStart with a statement of what role you’re leaving, and when. You might have had an unofficial discussion with your manager already, but it’s best to make things as clear and official as possible in your note. You don’t need to go into any detail about what you’re doing next (leaving for a new company, quitting to raise alpacas, etc.). You might end up telling people your next-step plans, but this is not relevant for your on-the-record resignation letter.2. A gracious toneNo matter why you’re leaving and no matter how angry or frustrated you might be, keep it on an even keel. This is not a time to burn any bridges. I promise you it is a very small world out there, and a goodbye missive full of personal insults, angry accusations, and general unpleasantness could definitely come back to haunt you.3. A thank youAgain, this resignation note is not the place for bitterness. I was once in the position of leaving a company when I felt like I’d been, well, shafted by someone in a position of authority. On my last day, as I was writing a goodbye note, I took the time to thank that person (albeit not as effusively as I might have otherwise), and I’m still glad I did. It might have felt therapeutic for a few minutes to have left a snotty and sarcastic parting word, but that wasn’t really me- and wasn’t what I wanted to be later on. No matter what specific grievances are going on, always take the time to thank someone for the opportunity you were given in this position. Be grateful for what you’ve learned, and shut the door gently behind you.4. A timelineYour company may have a mini mum notice requirement, which makes this part especially important. The timeline may end up being different in the end (maybe you won’t need to stay the full two weeks or however long), but it’s best to get the timing in writing in case there are any questions later from your manager, HR, etc.5. A planIf your resignation is a surprise to your manager and colleagues, an outline of the next few weeks shows you’ve put some thought into your exit plan. Also, it can help smooth any upset caused by your news. Offering a kind of succession plan (â€Å"I’m happy to spend time documenting my processes and training anyone on my day-to-day tasks over the next two weeks†) can help your boss manage the transition as well.Think of your resignation letter (or email) as your official transition to your next step- even more so than accepting a new job. Once it’s in writing, you’re already looking beyond your current role, so it’s time to let go of any drama. Similarly, it’s not a party time, either. The resignation letter is a way to remind yourself (and show your boss) that you will be handling the transition with professionalism and grace- and no swears.

Educational Excellence Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Educational Excellence - Essay Example The area of improvement encompasses mathematics. The data was compared between those who were born in 1983 and those born in 1997. When 20 students of the 4th grade born in 1983 were examined for proficiency in reading and writing, only 6 were found to be proficient while 20 students born in 1997, when examined for similar proficiency 7 students were found to be proficient in reading. The area showed less improvement (US Department of Education: A Nation Accountable). When 1983 born 4th class students were observed for proficiency in mathematics, only 4 were found to be proficient. Students born in 1997, when examined for proficiency in mathematics 8 out of 20 were found to be proficient in mathematics. Indicating that proficiency in mathematics increased two-fold. On close observation it is observed that 20 children born in 1983, entered school in 1988, of these 20, 14 graduates on time in 2001, of these 14, 10 started college but by 2007 only 5 could earn their degrees (US Department of Education: A Nation Accountable). California has shown very poor improvement when compared to other states of United States. According to 2005 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), California stands seventh lowest in 8th grade mathematics when compared with other states of USA. When their competitive spirit was calculated, California was at the bottom quarter. The students of 8th grade when compared for their reading skills they were the third lowest and just above the Hawaii and Columbia. The Californian students were poor in science they stand second lowest and just above the Mississippi. Indicating the education excellence could not meet the perfection in California (States vs. Countries in Math). According to the NY Times, Massachusetts shows maximum of 51% of mathematics proficiency, as compared to California which has 24 percent of proficiency in mathematics when students from eighth-grade were compared between various states and different

Critically examine the similarities and differences between public and Essay

Critically examine the similarities and differences between public and private nuisance. Support answer with relevant statute and case law - Essay Example Although such obstruction may cause inconvenience to many persons but none can be allowed to bring a civil action for that, otherwise there may be hundreds of actions for a. single act of public nuisance. To avoid multiplicity of suits the law makes public nuisance only an offence punishable under criminal law. In certain cases, when any person suffers some special or particular damage, different from what is inflicted upon public as a whole, a civil right of action is available to the person injured. What is otherwise a public nuisance, also becomes a private nuisance so far as the person suffering special damage as concerned. The expression special damage in this context means damage caused to a party in contradistinction to the public at largest For example, digging trench on a public highway may cause inconvenience to public at large. No member of the public, who is thus obstructed or has to take a diversion along with others, can sue under civil law. But if any one of them suffers more damage than suffered by the public at large, e.g., is severely injured by falling into the trench, he can sue in tort. In order to sustain a civil action in respect of a public nuisance proof of special and particular damage is essential. The proof of special damage entitles the plaintiff to bring a civil action for what may be otherwise a public nuisance. Thus, if the standing of horses and wagons for an unreasonably long time outside : mans house Creates darkness and bad smell for the occupants of the house and also obstructs the access of customers into it, the damage is ‘particular, direct and substantial’ and entitles the occupier to maintain an action.(Benjamin v. Storr,(1874) L.R.9C.P.400) In ‘Rose v. Milles’(1815; 4M.&S.101): the defendant wrongfully moored his barge across a public navigable crack. This blocked the way for plaintiffs barges and the plaintiff had to incur considerable