Fitness assessment analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Fitness assessment analysis - Essay Example 32 sit ups in 60 seconds are above average high endurance and muscular strength. The individual’s flexibility is lower compared to standards from results given. The hand grip test is also above average. I was surprised by the sit ups scores that were very low. Doing 32 sit ups in 60 seconds means that 1 sit up takes more than 1 second which is bad. Secondly, the flexibility of this person is low as an average person should make at least 15. In this result, the highest flexibility value is 12. 7 meaning that is lower compared to set standards. Of all the results, flexibility and sit ups that are low. For flexibility this individual should ensure that all joints are exercised for the whole body to be flexible. For great improvement on flexibility, individuals should perform a wide rage of stretches. Muscular strength can be improved by making exercise the same and working against heavy loads. An individual’s hands should also be forward while doing sit ups. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute Obesity Education Initiative Guidelines on Overweight and Obesity Electronic Toolkit. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/guidelines/obesity/e_txtbk/txgd/4142.htm Accessed: November 30,

Barriers cross cultural communication Research Paper

Barriers cross cultural communication - Research Paper Example In the business world, increasing globalisation has been resulting in the formation of many multinational companies (MNCs). Initially, these were mostly dominated by the West, whereas Asian Multinational Companies (AMCs) have mostly been of Japanese or Korean origin. Lately, a new breed of AMCs are emerging that are mostly of Chinese and Indian origin. Their expansion however, as with the earlier MNCs before them, is posing challenges related to cross-cultural communication. This paper seeks to identify the typical barriers to effective cross-cultural communication in this new context and how they can be overcome. The greater focus is on examining Chinese culture and the experience of Chinese managers of AMCs working within the American socio-cultural environment. Such Chinese high-profile AMCs include Haier, Lenovo and Huawei, and Indian AMCs include Tata and Bharti Airtel. Both countries have some domestic economies. Apart from issues such as the need to improve governance, have greater transparency, and so on (Moller, 2008), they also recognise the need to adapt to different cultures. This entails stressing responsibility and accountability, and to be more responsive to local needs (Rajan et al., 2009). The Chinese realise that it is knowledge and skills for operating internationally that are needed more than owning shares due to the previously limited exposure and general seclusion. The Indians on the other hand have had a longer exposure to the market economy. Both acknowledge that knowledge acquisition is paramount for innovation (Teagarden et al., 2008), but new knowledge has to be communicated using language in order to be acquired (Welch & Welch, 2008). Tata’s acquisition of South Korea’s Daewoo vehicle company in 2004 was seen as a success but that is because their cultures shared many similarities to begin with (Rodrigues, 2006). The language barriers were overcome easily, which speeded the integration, and confidence developed

Evaluation Of Online Encyclopaedias English Language Essay

Evaluation Of Online Encyclopaedias English Language Essay This report evaluates the capabilities of three online Encyclopaedias: Wikipedia, Free Online Encyclopaedia Britannica and Encyclopaedia Americana. The evaluation is based on the APPARATUS assessment method that are given weights according to their relative importance to search capabilities, contents , used materials references credentials of author(s). The Encyclopaedias are rated based on these the APPARATUS assessment and the ratings tabulated at the end of the report to facilitate comparison. 2. Introduction In this report, we evaluated the APPARATUS assessment of three online Encyclopaedias : Wikipedia, Free Online Encyclopaedia Britannica and Encyclopaedia Americana. The evaluation focus on the following criteria: , Authority Objectivity 2) Purpose 3) Physical Production 4) Arrangement 5) Recency 6) Accuracy 7) Treatment 8) Users 9) Scope These criteria were weighed according to their relative importance to APPARATUS assessment . Ratings from 1 to 4 were assigned to respective features and tabulated. Wikipedia Wikipedia is an online free-content encyclopaedia that users can edit and contribute to.   Jimmy Wales, wikipedia co-founder, has pronounced Wikipedia as an effort to create and distribute a multilingual free encyclopaedia of the highest quality to every single person on the planet in his or her own language. Wikipedia is to bring knowledge to everyone who seeks it. Britannica Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica has been the worlds most valued reference source for over two centuries. Today Britannica provides a variety of products, intended to fit different users needs.If users want the full 32-volume Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica, an encyclopaedia for younger users, or educational teaching materials, Britannica provides an appropriate resource with features and enhancements. Encyclopaedia Americana Americana is one of the largest general encyclopaedias in the English language. Following the acquisition of Grolier in 2000, the encyclopaedia has been produced by Scholastic. It has articles on natural and exact sciences, on engineering and economics, in addition to on separate works of literature, music, and art. Many articles in the encyclopaedia are written from anti-Marxist and anti-communist viewpoints. As a rule it contains instructive articles, but there are also analysis articles most often about separate countries and centuries-for example, the articles The 18th Century and The 20th Century. Authority and Objectivity Wikipedia Wikipedia is an online free-content encyclopaedia that users can edit and contribute to. Jimmy Wales, wikipedia co-founder, has pronounced Wikipedia as an effort to create and distribute a multilingual free encyclopaedia of the highest quality to every single person on the planet in his or her own language. Wikipedia is to bring knowledge to everyone who seeks it. Wikipedia articles are all free content and their text is covered by the Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 3.0 Unported License (CC-BY-SA) and in most cases the GNU Free Documentation License (GFDL). The Wikimedia Foundation does not own copyright on Wikipedia article texts and illustrations. It is purposeless to email our contact addresses asking for approval to copy articles or images, even if rules at users company or school or organization order that user ask web site operators before copying their content. The only Wikipedia content users should contact the Wikimedia Foundation about is the trademarked Wikipedia/ Wikimedia logos, which will not be freely usable without permission. Wikipedia is available in languages other than English. Wikipedia has more than two hundred and eighty languages, including a Simple English version, and related projects include a dictionary, books, and scientific reference sources, quotations manuals and a news service (see sister projects). All of these are maintained, updated, and managed by separate communities, and often include information and articles that can be hard to find through other common sources. Britannica The editorial board is organized more than four thousand expert contributors, and the articles are written and continuously updated by a hundred full time editors. The authors, compilers, and editors are coming from different backgrounds like Nobel Laureates or Pulitzer Prize winners, expecting writers, artists, civil servants, scholars and activists. Some contributors in the record of the Britannica include Freud, Russell, Marie Curie, Einstein, Huxley and Shaw. Nowadays, the contributors are professors and domain experts in specific areas from Oxford, Harvard, Yale, University of Chicago and other reputable universities. Some contributors introduced their personal negative opinion on topics such as Hinduism so that the articles on Britannica have some cultural bias. A quote of the 11th edition will better help to understand these biases. The 9th edition onwards, the Britannica was widely considered to have the greatest authority of any general English language encyclopaedias especi ally because of its broad coverage and distinct or outstanding authors. Encyclopaedia Americana All articles are signed by the author, a leading authority in his/her field, chosen by a team of editors and advisors. Americana is one of the largest general encyclopaedias in the English language. This series has more than 45000 articles, most of them more than 500 words and many running to considerable length (the United States article is over 300,000 words). The works coverage of American and Canadian geography and history has been a traditional strength. The Encyclopaedia Americana is written by over 6000 contributors, and most articles are signed by their contributors. Controversial subjects are included with several references for abortion, homelessness, and homosexuality. The editors have striven for a balanced and objective viewpoint on all topics. Purpose Wikipedia Wikipedias purpose is to benefit readers by acting as an encyclopaedia, a comprehensive written compendium that includes information on all branches of knowledge. The goal of Wikipedia is to build a free encyclopaedia; indeed, the largest encyclopaedia in history, not only in terms of breadth but also in terms of depth and also want Wikipedia to be a reliable resource. The purpose of an encyclopaedia is to gather knowledge spread around the globe; to express its general system to the men with whom we live, and broadcast it to those who will come after us, so that the work of prior centuries will not become useless to the centuries to come; and so that our children, becoming better instructed, will at the same time become more worthy and happy, and that wiki cannot die without having provided a service to the human race. Many visitors come to Wikipedia to acquire knowledge, while others come to share knowledge. At this very moment, dozens of articles are being superior, and new articl es are also being created. Britannica The purpose of the online encyclopaedia Britannica is to be an excellent reference and to provide academic materials to students and researchers. For academic institutions, libraries, and corporations, Britannica provides Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica Online, a wealth of trusted, wide-ranging resources intended especially for serious researchers. This widely varied set of powerful resources makes Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica Online an essential addition to every academic, corporate, and research library. Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica Online School Edition presents Britannicas renowned educational resources in a student-friendly and engaging site designed especially for teachers and elementary, middle, and high school students. This unique resource brings together three encyclopaediasEncyclopà ¦dia Britannica, Britannica Student Encyclopaedia, and Britannica Elementary Encyclopaediato meet the needs of a variety of reading levels. In addition, a section specifically for teachers provides wor ksheets to support effective use of the Internet in the classroom. Encyclopaedia Americana The corporate purpose of Scholastic is to encourage the intellectual and personal growth of all children, beginning with literacy, the cornerstone of all learning. As well as more than 90 years of experience supporting the learning lives of children, today Scholastic remains committed to providing quality, engaging educational content in digital and print formats for the next generation of learners, and the families and educators who guide them. This encyclopaedia is intended for use as a general reference resource in schools, colleges, and public libraries. No American bias is detected. Physical production Wikipedia As for the largest Wikipedia, which is the English version, it includes around 3.8 million articles. All these documents are only in electronic format. Another feature of the toolbox is the Printable version. Use it whenever users want to print articles for a printer-friendly version of the article. Browsers (eg.Mozilla Firefox or Internet Explore) that will be familiar with the media print will automatically apply the printable version when printing with the default Mono book style sheet. There are more than 8000 active contributors working on more than 19 million articles which is a really large number of articles. It can compare to another project by the cofounder of Wikipedia called Citizendum. Its the short for of citizen compendium and is another online encyclopaedia project with tighter editing rules and higher reliability due to a close interaction between authors and editors. This means that Citizendum contains more reliable information but way less content (about 16 thousan d articles). Britannica Britannica usually prints a new set of the tomes every two years, but 2010s 32-volume set will be its last. Instead, the company will focus only on its digital encyclopaedia and education tools. The online version of the encyclopaedia, which was first published in 1994, represents only 15% of Britannicas revenue. The other 85% is sales of education products: online learning tools, curriculum products and more. Encyclopaedia Britannica brings to sudden stop of print publication after 244 years. The print version of the Britannica was considerably more expensive than its competitors. In general, the Internet tends to provide more current coverage than print media, due to the ease with which material on the Internet can be updated. Encyclopedia Americana Today, each year Americana released more than 600 titles for readers of all ages(0-18), in a variety of print and digital formats. Since 1926, when Scholastic published its first collection, Saplings, the Company has continued to release award-winning and best-selling books, ranging from beautifully-rendered titles for tots to holding reads that fascinate global audiences. Among those 600 are the amazingly successful publishing properties like Harry Potter, and Captain Underpants, Goosebumps, The 39 Clues, the beloved series Clifford the Big Red Dog, I Spy, Bone, Fly Guy, Dear America, Geronimo Stilton, The Magic School Bus, and The Hunger Games trilogy. The list of authors and illustrators consists of Tedd Arnold, Blue Balliett, Jim Benton, Meg Cabot, Patrick Carman, Suzanne Collins, Christopher Paul Curtis, Gordon Korman, Cynthia Lord, Ann M. Martin, Jon J Muth, Dav Pilkey, J.K. Rowling, Matthew Reinhart, Pam Muà ±oz Ryan, Allen Say, Brian Selznick, David Shannon, Jeff Smith, Magg ie Stiefvater, Mark Teague, and Walter Wick, among others a diverse list representing titles that span themes, ages, and geographies. Scholastic Trade division also publishes licensed properties such as Star Wars, Rainbow Magic, Its Happy Bunny, Lego, Chuggington, and Bob Books. Scholastic books have a reputation for gathering accolades and awards (including Caldecott Medals, National Book Awards, Newbery Medals, and Coretta Scott King Awards) and topping bestseller lists year upon year, and include memorable titles and series like The Adventures of Super Diaper Baby, The Invention of Hugo Cabret, No, David!, Allie Finkles Rules For Girls, How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night?, Amulet, Star Wars: A Pop-Up Guide to the Galaxy, Wonderstruck, Smile, The Underland Chronicles, The Baby-sitters Club, Owen Mzee, The Guardians of GaHoole series, Chasing Vermeer, Charlie Bone, Zen Shorts, and the Shiver trilogy. Nearly ten years later, on July 21, 2007, Scholastic published the much-anticipated seventh and final book in the series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, making publishing history with a record-breaking 8.3 million copies sold in the U.S. in the first 24 hours. More than 140 million copies of the Harry Potter books are in print in the United States; more than 400 million copies have sold worldwide. Arrangement Wikipedia Wikipedia has a good starting point at the summary of a topic, but its greatest value is its links to outside sources. As for Britannica, its a pathetic shadow of its old treeware self. Wikipedia also has many portals, which categorize content around topic areas; our best portals are collected as featured portals. Articles can be found using the search box on the top-right side of the screen. A representative article contains a main page, titled on the definite topic (I.e., UNESCO) and a second page is accessible to discuss the topic with other users. These pages can be read, edited or one can access the editing history. On the main article page, there is a short introduction on the topic, organized by a table of content that work as hyperlinks. To display articles, users can type a search in the search field or browse through the lists that include lists of countries and territories, of people, by nationality, by occupation. It also has alphabetical indexes sorted by the first two l etters of the title modified by subject or special categories. Each subpart includes an edit button so everything can be edited. Paragraphs contain several hyperlinked terms to further extend the information someone can get on the topic or related issues. The last part of the page is a list of reference, then external links and related articles. One of the lesser users known, especially useful, techniques for researching with Wikipedia is the effective use of the What links here link which is on the left side of the screen, as the first item in the box marked toolbox. This link will contribute users a complete list of other Wikipedia articles that link to the current article. Even if the article user are looking at is a stub or, more extraordinarily, if it is a blank article, several related articles may be easily accessible through this feature. Sometimes these backward links will show users ways in which the article users started from is incomplete in one area or another. An inter esting feature is a list of timelines (centuries, decades or the major events in a given year). It is remarkable to mention that there is no advanced search option but only a single option less normal search. Changes can be viewed at the recent changes page and a random page at random articles. Over 3,500 articles have been designated by the Wikipedia community as featured articles, exemplifying the best articles in the encyclopaedia. Another 15,000 articles are designated as good articles. Some information on Wikipedia is organized into lists; the best of these are designated as featured lists. Britannica The Britannica includes 33 volumes. It separated into three main sections; volumes from 1-12 (Micropedia) which covered the short articles set (less than 750 words) that focuses on ready reference questions. Volumes from13-29 (Macropedia) containing longer articles (2+ pages) with more in-depth information. Volume 30 (Propedia), a one volume covers 10parts of knowledge (Matter and energy, The Earth and life on it, Human life, Human society, Arts, Technology, Religion, History of mankind, and Branchesof Knowledge) , this volume summaries of contains all human knowledge.  The topic in each section in (Micropedia, Macropedia) arranged alphabetically letter by letter. This Britannica is connected with facebook, twitter, youtube, newsletters, RSS, Widgets. When I browsed through the articles, each EB article was overwhelmed by as many as 8 Airtel ads per page, depending on the length of the article/page. If users would like to avoid ads, sign up for a subscription form. There is a norma l search and an advanced search. If we want to narrow down or broaden the results, the advanced search option uses Boolean operator like AND, OR, NOT, using other options. In the field of research tools users can change different options such as:  compare countries, this day in history, timeline, world atlas, world data analyst. There is also a spotlight section, where we can see the special features of the encyclopaedia. Each list has its own features, so for the videos, images audio list, the requested result is displayed including naturally images, audio recordings and video files so that user can comprehend the topic more easily. Users can contribute to their browsing history, relating articles in terms of type, description, date, and contributor. Users can get information about the primary contributors and other contributors in the list of contributor. It is also possible to browse a dictionary or thesaurus to search the meaning of words. In the last part, widgets shows info rmation of history of event and people related to the requested article and various date. The results are also displayed like a table of contents, where users can conveniently select the sub-menu of their choice for a more efficient browsing. An interesting feature is that the author of the article can give his or her purpose to the readers. Indeed, the online encyclopaedia Britannica academic edition have got the teachers choice award, 2007 2008 SIIA CODiE winner because of its structured and organized contents, secure environment for internet research, and  «Ã‚  neutral perspectives  Ã‚ » (as we mentioned this neutral perspective is subject to discussion).   Encyclopaedia Americana Articles are composed of alphabetically, using the word-by-word system. If two or more articles have the same heading they are ordered by person, place, and thing. Each entry begins with a large bold-faced heading, and may be further sub-divided by smaller bold-faced sub-headings. Longer articles include a contents box for quicker searching, with an information highlights box. Cross-references may be provided in the text or at the end of  article. A bibliography is included at the end of an article when appropriate. Users can choose among five customized interfaces that meet specialized needs and the reading and interest levels of the user. The five interfaces are: 1) Elementary School interface 2) Middle School interface 3) High School interface 4) Adult Patron interface 5) Librarians/Educators interface. Each interface composes of features and returns search results based on reading levels tied to three core differentiated domains: Elementary School, Middle School, and High Schoo l/Adult Patron. A pronunciation key and a list of abbreviations used in the encyclopaedia are included at the beginning of each volume. Recency (Currentness) Wikipedia In October 2012, there are editions of Wikipedia in 285 languages. It has become the largest and most popular general reference work on the Internet, standing sixth globally among all websites on Alexa and having an estimated 365 million readers worldwide. In 2011, Wikipedia received an estimated 2.7 billion monthly page views from the United States alone. Wikipedia has taken a great deal of criticism in the press for problems relating to the trustworthiness of its authors and its general responsibility. Britannica Many people know Britannica as the publisher of those big multivolume encyclopaedias that have been a source of joy and learning since 1768. Today that encyclopaedia is chiefly to be found in a multitude of digital forms that are updated daily. The online encyclopaedia Britannicas home page is updated every day with the breaking news and revised articles from New York Times. Britannica also marks the contribution of users by presenting the comments they left on articles. The updating of the content is subject to the editorial boards policy. The updating are quite fast and the content is revised more regularly than the printed version. Now Britannia is also available as Online School Edition, so its not completely behind Wikipedia. Today this Britannica extremely expanded with schools, parents, and educators, designing products for the 21st-century classroom and todays home learning environments. Britannica is a creator in digital education, and their products are marked by engaging a nd reliable content. Encyclopedia Britannica Inc, have announced that it will stop publishing its 32-volume print edition (retail value $1400) after 244 years, and instead focus on its digital versions. The Encyclopaedia Britannica is a general knowledge book brought out first in three volumes in 1768 by three people. Encyclopaedia Americana Today, Scholastic is the largest publisher and distributor of childrens books in the world, with a collection of titles that entertain and support childrens wide-ranging interested and stages of reading development. Whether its a graphic novel or a board book, a future dystopian setting or a look back in history, our books help young readers explore their imaginations and become lifelong lovers of books. Information is up-to-date for the time of publication. Accuracy Wikipedia Wikipedia has taken a number of positive steps to help develop and maintain the accuracy and objectivity of Wikipedia entries. Its important to note that Wikipedia articles are in a state of constant flux and there is the potential for vandalization. Wikipedia with an open nature has directed to various concerns, such as the quality of writing, the amount of vandalism and the accuracy of information. Some articles have unconfirmed or unreliable information, although a 2005 investigation in Nature presented that the science articles they compared came close to the level of accuracy of Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica and had a similar rate of serious errors. Wikipedia had a rule against using original research that some claim discourages participation by scholars and experts. Nevertheless, those same scholars and experts are able to participate in the writing of articles and linking to supporting documents on the web. Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales has always maintained that the service and its community are set up a self-policing and self-cleaning nature that is supposed to ensure its articles are accurate. Britannica Since the articles are written by professors and experts from in their respective fields we can confidently conclude that the content is accurate. It also is satisfactorily up-to-date. The sentence structure is also organized very well. In a press release, Jorge Cauz, President Encyclopaedia Britannica says Britannica Online includes abundant information along with gorgeous multimedia, and that makes it an excellent match for Bharti Airtels broadband service. There are eight serious errors, such as general misunderstandings of vital concepts, in the articles but users can find a series of factual errors, omissions or misleading statements. Wikipedia had 162 such problems, while Britannica had 123. The averages are 2.92 mistakes per article for Britannica and 3.86 for Wikipedia. Britannica came out looking a little bit more accurate than Wikipedia. the error rate for each encyclopaedia was not insignificant, and added that he thinks such numbers demonstrate that broad review of encycl opaedia articles is needed. Britannica is more reliable than Wiki. However, the content is not necessarily in-depth. While searching for Singapore, the article does not mention the Marina Bay Sands or who the president is. In comparison, the recent marriage of Prince William is largely covered. Encyclopaedia Americana The 30 volume publication contains tens of thousands of articles written to serve the educational community as a bridge between the general reader and the specialist. Articles are accurately presented in easy to understand language, and are aimed at all learners and educators, from the young student to teachers and librarians. When an author is chosen to write an article, he/she is reminded that the objective of the publication is to present facts and interpretations to the non-specialist reader, as well as explain technical terms in an understandable manner. Before publication, each article is reviewed by the editors to ensure accuracy of information and vocabulary, spelling and sentence structures that it satisfies these objectives. In the new edition, the Editor has make an afforded to limit the work to its legal purpose the presentation of knowledge with faithfulness and with scholarly objectivity, avoiding the promotion of theories and such discussions and protections as are wh olly strange to the character and nature of an encyclopaedia. Every effort has been made to protect not only accuracy of statement but also fairness and correctness of view. Treatment Wikipedia The editing guidelines also mention a manual of style that provides detailed guidance to help editors to use a reliable, clear and exact language and layout. It is recommended to avoid jargon or vague or unnecessarily complex wording. Usually if any jargon or concept is used in an article, it will be hyperlinked to the matching Wikipedia page on this term. Regarding as the importance of the term, it finally attains a Wikipedia article of its own, which is nearly always linked to. It is usually clarified with more known terms. There is no range of English specification except for quotations, proper names, titles of works such as books, films, or songs where the original spelling must be kept. Articles on precise comparison of variety of English can feature different spellings. In addition, the guidelines mention that several citation styles are possible, namely the main recognized styles such as APA or MLA. The users can also give a rate the article according to its perceived trustwor thiness, objectivity, completeness and whether it was well-written, the user can also mention whether users are knowledgeable on the topic . Britannica As this encyclopedia have for many years, by cooperating with experts, scholars, educators, instructional designers, and user-experience specialists; by subjecting their work to hard editorial review; and by combining it all into learning products that are useful, reliable, and enjoyable. Each edition of the Britannica is written and updated by about 100 full-time editors and more than 4,400 contributors. It is regarded as one of the most scholarly of English language encyclopaedias and remained roughly the same size for the past 70 years, consisting of 40 million words on a half-million different topics. The current 15th edition, published in 2010, consists of 32 volumes a two-volume index, a 12 volume Micropaedia, and a 17 volume Propaedia. The online edition costs a lot less, with a basic subscription running at $17 per year or $1.99 per month, compared to $1,395 for the 32-volume print version. The company has been providing online editions of its encyclopaedia for 20 years, wit h more than 65% of its online sales coming from educational institutions; the online edition is updated continually. The goal is to expand its appeal to consumers. With that move, Britannica is taking on Wikipedia. Although publication has been based in the United States since 1901, the Britannica has maintained British spelling. Its three-volume first edition was published in 1768-71 in Edinburgh, Scot. In subsequent editions it grew in size and reputation. The most famous editions include the ninth (1875-89), known as the scholars encyclopaedia, and the 11th (1910-11), which, with contributions from more than 1,500 experts of world reputation, was also the first to divide the usually long treatises into more specified articles. The current edition, the 15th (1974, with a major revision in 1985), exemplified a new structure, dividing the major articles from the shorter ones. Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica now also appears in CD-ROM and on-line versions. A series of ownership changes le ad to its purchase by American publishers in 1901; since the 1940s it has been published in Chicago. Almost all articles are written in simple and widespread way, but particularly for the science and technology, users can see technological jargons, as this is addressed more to the educated users. It uses MLA and APA citation styles. Encyclopedia Americana The index also lists thousands of entries for which there are no separate articles, but does provide listings of articles that cover the subject. In all cases, volume and page numbers are provided for easy look-up. In 1902 a new version in 16 volumes that carried over some of the old material was published under the title Encyclopaedia Americana, under the editorial supervision of Scientific American magazine. The magazines editor, Frederick Converse Beach, was editor-in-chief, to be assisted by hundreds of famous scholars and authorities who served as consulting editors or authors. The first publisher was R.S. Peale Co; between 1903 and 1906 further editions were issued by the Americana Corp. and the Scientific American Compiling Department, with George Edwin Rines appointed managing editor in 1903. The relationship with Scientific American was terminated in 1911. From 1907 to 1912, the work was published as The Americana. A major new edition appeared in 1918-20 in 30 volumes, with George Edwin Rines as editor-in-chief. An Annual or Yearbook was also published each year beginning in 1923 and continuing until 2000.The sentence structure is very simple with easy understanding vocabulary. The meaning and simple sentence structure can clarify the complexity of expressed thoughts. It seldom use jargons words in the Americana. User Wikipedia Wikipedia aims to be user friendly and accessible to all. The main resource is in English but if the user doesnt speak English, he or she can access it in another language, though the content will be more limited. The English text of the CC-BY-SA and GFDL licenses is the only legally binding restriction between authors and users of Wikipedia content. What follows is our interpretation of CC-BY-SA and GFDL, as it pertains to the rights and obligations of users and contributors. Britannica The online encyclopaedia Britannica is a general encyclopaedia so that it is not only targeted to the intellectual levels such as students, teachers, librarians, and administrators but also targeted the kids. The Britannica websites are general audience sites, intended for Users (visitors and subscribers) of all ages. If a user is a California resident, he/she is entitled to prevent sharing of his/her personal information with third parties for his/her own marketing purposes through a cost-free means. If users send a request to Britannica Customer Service, Britannica will provide users with a California Customer Choice Notice that they may use to opt-out of such information sharing. Now all Airtel Broadband customers in India can take a 2 year free subscription to Encyclopaedia Britannica (worth Rs.6575). Specifically, there are three models for them: students encyclopaedia (age 11 and above), childrens encyclopaedia (age 8-11), and thesaurus and dictionary. In the latter, articles t o be browsed are subjects related to their curriculum. EB is absolutely the biggest authoritative resource of information with over 100 million users. Users are able to visit many of website pages without informing who they are or revealing any information about themselves. Users contin

Romeo and Juliet - Act III, Scene V :: Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

Romeo and Juliet - Act III, Scene V Act III, Scene V of Romeo and Juliet is significant for it is the most pivotal scene of this tragic play. Although prior scenes present extreme circumstances, this scene reveals the results of past activities and begins a series of tragic misunderstandings and fatal reactions. Transformations occuring amongst characters and their relationships with one another and the tone of the play are revealed in this scene. Through language, Shakespeare presents these changes as well as foreshadowing the eventual tragedy Romeo and Juliet's death. From this point on in the play there are no more comedic or romantic scenes. The following scenes are of extreme actions, mishap and tragedy. The "star-crossed lovers" cannot escape their fate. One of the many transformations presented in this scene is that of Romeo and Juliet's love for one another. Romeo and Juliet's love makes the transition from infatuation to a deep and sincere love. In earlier scenes they used overly romantic language and metaphor, whereas, now they speak to one another of their love in a mature and tender way. They will do anything to be with one another, for their love surpasses any emotion for their familial or community ties. They are willing to make any sacrifice in order to have their desire for one another fulfilled. Both Romeo and Juliet enjoy each other's company on their first morning together following their marriage and they do not want to part. Juliet's first visible transformation to adulthood is revealed here. In Romeo's desire to be with Juliet, he is willing to risk capture, and most probably death, in being found within the Capulet walls. Romeo, although maturing in his feelings of love and intimacy is still young and reckless in his behavior. In contrast, upon rationalizing the circumstance of daylight and their being found, Juliet eventually pleads for Romeo to leave "O, now be gone! More light and light it grows." (III, v, 35) To which Romeo responds, "More light and light- more dark and dark our woes." (III, v, 36) The metaphors associated with light (i.e. the sun, the moon, the day) which previously protected their affair is now their enemy. Nature itself has turned upon them

CheckPoint-Audience Analysis and Reception Essay

Communication is the most important key to any relationship, in the business world it is the way to keep the business running smoothly. This is why analyzing the audience is the most important task a writer can perform in order to effectively communicate or present any information to their audience. In this particular scenario, I have been assigned to write a report to the management team at my work place. Therefore it is important for me to analyze all of the characteristics of each of the member of my management team to ensure the effectiveness of my report. Since I will be writing a formal report, I would need to ensure that it is legible, use appropriate wording in order to create the proper business tone in my report. I need to ensure that all information written on my report is accurate. Check that all of my sources are credible and that there won’t be any misunderstanding in the report. The writer’s credibility is an extremely important thing to have; this is why I would have to make sure that all of the data posted on my report is accurate. By doing so it will show the management team that I am trustworthy, reliable and I get the job done correctly. I would also need to think about what would motivate them and interest them in my report. Therefore, I would make sure my report includes facts that would motivate them such as weekly and monthly sales reports, financial gains and productivity. These are all very important points for me to keep in mind when writing the report. If my report was poorly written and not in a business professional tone, would make me look bad in their eyes. Also failing to provide accurate information or present it in a professional way, will affect my credibility greatly. They will not see me as the honest hard worker that I am. They would instead see me as an uncaring person that did not bother to do the research and gather facts to present before them. Also if my report does not contain any information that does not pertain to the management team, I would lose their interest quickly.

Interview Essay Essay

I conducted my interview with Mrs. Michelle G. Escala; a woman with simple dreams and hopes in life. I approached her with all the kindness, respect, and humility. I started my interview by introducing myself and my purpose for conducting the interview. I was quite nervous during my interview, but I was still able to deliver my prepared questions. Mrs. Escala showed kindness to me during my interview. I could sense her sincerity and confidence while answering all my questions. She is a teacher at Tarong Elementary School, who is willing to inspire pupils and students to learn and to live the value of their existence. Mrs. Escala received her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Philippine Normal University, Cadiz City in 2003 and her Masteral in Elementary Education from University of Southern Philippines in 2011. She took the Licensure Examination for Teacher and she passed and now, she’s enjoying her profession. Mrs. Escala was never influenced by anyone to take up the course Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education; it’s her own choice and will. She stated that taking up BEED is the first step in preparing for this profession. She also believes that grades and extracurricular activities are important. She was a consistent honor student since her younger years, she actively participate in their school paper and other organization in their school. In addition, she said, in order for you to finish your studies and to achieve your goal, you must strive hard, manage your time wisely, love what you do, and have faith in God. After finishing her studies, before she becomes a full time teacher, she started as a substitute teacher for about half a year. She also stressed the importance of Practice teaching because it will give you experience and you can meet what is truly the work of a teacher. She also said that attending to seminars either near or far is important because through these a ctivities you can learn more and it will help you to be more professional. Mrs. Escala stressed that teaching is not that easy. You have to be as patient as you can towards your pupils. You must be patient in teaching them their lesson, especially when difficult time comes in. She stated that the most difficult part in teaching is when you know you gave your best but still pupils fail to show what is expected from them. She also said that we must also accept the fact that everybody is not equal in all aspect; we must acknowledge the weaknesses of the pupils and then teach without expecting too much. Teaching has deadlines that must be met, which creates pressure  and the feeling of constantly being rushed. She also said that you must not be absent in your class because it’s not you that will be affected, but the students. Even though there is a reason for you to be absent, she added, you must give them some assignments or activities before the day you’re not there so that their day won’t be wasted, or maybe you must make it up to them on the day that your back. But not all the times it seems to be difficult, there are times it’s easy to handle and fulfilling especially when you achieve your goals for the pupils. She said that what she is trying to achieve with her students is for them to learn, to digest what she taught in class, and hopefully they will be inspired to live with the values she is instilling in them. She also added that it is a great achievement for a teacher to see their pupils progressing physically, intellectually, socially, and financially, that’s why she is aiming to produce pupils to become functionally upright, and useful as well as productive citizen of the society. Mrs. Escala said that her work is satisfying, not in a way that she is satisfied with the food but she is satisfied with her pupils because they are pretty comical. She even added that she would choose teaching all over again, because she loves her job and this is where her heart really belongs. I feel my interview is really beneficial. I learned a lot about her, as well as some about what it is like to be a professional. It was encouraging for me to speak with someone who loves her job so much. My interview with Mrs. Escala provided me information about being a professional and how to be a responsible student and soon to be a professional like her. She also provided me with â€Å"real world† information; information about life and how to handle the difficulties and not letting those difficulties to be a hindrance in pursuing and achieving your goal. Conducting an interviews with her prove to be a great learning experience because it help me a lot and now, I have more knowledge about responsibilities, career opportunities, and what it’s like to be a professional. Even though my interview is not related to my course, it is still challenging and worth remembering. Now, I have more and better idea and understanding of how to achieve my goal, and my goal is to become a Certified Public Accountant.

Color Symbolism used in the Great Gatsby

Color Symbolism used in the Great Gatsby Free Online Research Papers In The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald emphasizes Jay Gatsby’s longing and desire to be with Daisy Buchanan. Gatsby and Daisy had met five years prior to when the book takes place, but Gatsby left for the war and Daisy hadn’t heard from him since. In this way the story should seem like a classic love story, where two lovers are happily reunited, but it is not. It is a story of unfulfilled longing, obsession, and an American dream that can never be satisfied. Throughout the book it seems that Fitzgerald vividly uses a variety of colors to represent important aspects of his book. In The Great Gatsby, Fitzgerald suggests through the symbolism of the colors green and white, that what Gatsby believes is love, is in fact only a dream. In The Great Gatsby, the color green symbolizes a sense of false hope for Gatsby. The main source of the color green in this book is the green light at the end of the dock between Daisy and Gatsby’s house. The light represents Gatsby’s many years of longing and wanting. His dream and everything that he has worked for in his life for the past five years has all been for her. His dream of being with Daisy is finally realized when Nick helps set him up on a date with her. However, after his dream of having her is realized, the sense of hope and longing that he has had for years is now gone. This is shown in the end of the book when Nick is quoted in saying, â€Å"I sat there brooding on the old, unkno wn world, I thought of Gatsby’s wonder when he first picked out the green light at the end of Daisy’s dock.†(180) â€Å"His dream must have seemed so close that he could hardly fail to grasp it. He did not know that it was already behind him.† (180) Along with these quotes, Daisy says, â€Å"Even alone I can’t say that I never loved Tom, it wouldn’t be true.†(133) This series of quotes suggests that Fitzgerald wants us to see that Gatsby struggles to live in the present time. Daisy has already moved on from the five years prior when the two were together. His dream will now never become a reality, making the green light a sense of false hope. While this might make sense if one believes that Gatsby truly loves Daisy, I believe that their love was completely false from the beginning. White is a color that is used commonly in The Great Gatsby. When you think of the color white, often you think of purity. However, in this book Fitzgerald suggests that the color white symbolizes a faà §ade. This can be seen in almost every character but I will focus on Gatsby and Daisy’s relationship. Daisy is described throughout the book as having white fingers, a white face, and is often seen wearing white dresses. Through Fitzgerald’s companionship of white with Daisy, I believe that she never truly loved Gatsby. After Nick sets Gatsby up with Daisy he starts daydreaming and says, â€Å"One autumn night five years ago they came to a place where there were no trees and the sidewalk was white with moonlight. They stopped here and turned toward each other. His heart beat faster and faster as Daisy’s white face came up to his own.† (110) This is the scene where the two first kiss and supposedly solidify their love for one another. Throughout this particular passage the color white is mentioned numerous times. I believe that Fitzgerald did this to show that Gatsby and Daisy’s â€Å"love† was a faà §ade or a mask that the two could hide behind. It allowed them to act as completely different people and have different feelings than what they truly have. The kiss wasn’t out of true love at all. Gatsby doesn’t actually love Daisy, he loves what she represents. While Daisy doesn’t truly love Gatsby, she loves all of the attention and materials that he has to offer to her. When Gatsby came back to Daisy, he had to completely change himself to be good enough for her. Daisy was satisfied with the security and safety that she had by being married to a wealthy man. Gatsby felt that if he would be able to get Daisy back he would have to devote his life to become perfect for her, making her the unattainable goal or the sense of longing that he loved more than Daisy herself. â€Å"True love† was never shown in this book between Daisy and Gatsby; both of their lives were all about materialism. Research Papers on Color Symbolism used in the Great GatsbyThe Masque of the Red Death Room meaningsBook Review on The Autobiography of Malcolm XWhere Wild and West MeetHonest Iagos Truth through DeceptionMind TravelHarry Potter and the Deathly Hallows EssayTrailblazing by Eric AndersonThe Hockey GameThe Spring and AutumnEffects of Television Violence on Children

American International Bank Case Study

American International Bank Case Study Executive Summary American International Bank has been a beacon of success in wholesale banking services across the world. The company has numerous branches overseas that operate in harmony with the bank’s headquarters in New York. However, the company has clear challenges that threaten its ability to maintain a pole leadership position in the banking sector.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on American International Bank specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More It lacks an integrated system, personalized manual services and an outstanding data management. As such, the bank ought to establish an integrated telecommunication network that will enhance its efficiency. From different alternatives available, it is important for the bank to adopt WAN and VPN owing to numerous benefits it stands to reap. Introduction American International Bank (AIB) uses a business model that reflects manual completion of tasks. While we c onsider that AIB is one of the most profitable banks in the US, the company could increase its profit margin by improving its business model to suit its needs. The current model has provided loopholes through which the company stands to lose in terms of cash owing to inefficiencies. The following is an analysis of problems that the company faces owing to poor business model. Summary of the Problem and Analysis Apparently, American International Bank seems to have numerous challenges that have hindered its efficiency. The bank lacks an integrated information system. This has in turn resulted to poor monitoring of overseas branches since the general manager (Tamara), has to take over a month to retrieve information regarding the bank’s operations. As such, information retrieval costs the company huge amounts of resources in terms of time as well as inaccurate data presentation. Considering that many bank’s operations are located overseas and its need for a positive globa l image, such objectives will remain elusive for the bank with fragmented information system that continue to typify its operations. The managers continue to visit the headquarters to discuss any emergent issue and present their reports. As Tamara agrees, it is hard to understand the current business standpoint since reports take at least three months to be processed. This is despite their proneness to inaccuracies and inability to predict the bank’s future performance. Second, the bank also suffers from increased personalized services delivery. Currently, the company faces a momentous challenge to establish a free flowing system in which its branch managers will be able to monitor customers’ accounts without necessarily having to embark on personalized inquiries. Indeed, this type of communication is vulnerable to emotions and may be detrimental if managers fail to live up to its principles.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see i f we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This might also imply that a simple business miscalculation by a branch manager may reduce clients’ trust substantially. As such, AIB should not allow personalized services to characterize its operations although the aspect has been one of the major strengths of the bank. It is important to notice that personalized services can also be achieved by implementing the right business and technology models. Third, the bank faces an upheaval task of reconciling transactions. Automated systems where customers may be able to handle all of their bank transactions is lacking in the company. The branch managers keep the manual statements. This raises the fear of data backup in case of an accident. Considering that the current data processing systems is dysfunctional, the company’s business model lacks elaborate data management. Finally, the emerging problems have reduced the effectiveness of the manage ment team. Tamara highlights that the bank made substantial errors in credit authorization. Lack of coordination amongst banks’ branches has made different managers to authorize different credit limits by almost 140%. Subsequently, the bank stands to lose immense amount of money due to ineffective management department. In fact, lack of coordination amongst various branches has led to crises in which the branch managers pin point the importance of an efficient system that is free of errors and enhances the bank’s ability to deliver quality services to customers and clients. As such, there is an apparent need for a new system. Discussion: Solution to the problem How can AIB improve its efficiency and remain profitable? The organization ought to integrate its information systems to avoid its current hiccups experienced in its operations. The bank can explore various alternatives. Chiefly, the organization may decide to utilize network connectivity that does not only enha nce communication amongst its branches but also enhance data management. With such a system, the bank will be able to monitor its managers and its clients. However, for the management to effectively handle its information system there is the need for the clients to adapt to a new way through which they will be able to access bank’s transactions in an automated way. Although the capital cost of such solution remains considerably high, AIB ought to understand that implementation of a new integrated system will not only ease the flow of data but also enhance improved services for the organization (Trotta 47). Strategy To overhaul the current system is a hard task although it is worth it in the end. It implies that the bank ought to assume a strategy given the fact that change is a gradual and a systematic process in all organizations. Strategic planning will entail the prioritization of areas that the bank feels are most inefficient.Advertising We will write a custom cas e study sample on American International Bank specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The replacement of the system should be a top down strategy where branch managers ought to be integrated into the system at the beginning (Trotta 12). Although the use of manual methods of transaction may continue for a while, the managers ought to have an efficient and a networked system ahead of all departments due to the sensitivity of their tasks. Subsequently, after a successful rolling out of the project, there is the need for the managers to enhance an efficient system by facilitating the clients to transact with an automated system. By so doing, the company will be able to have a full network and an integrated system in which data storage, retrieval and management will be much easier than earlier on. It is important for technological change agents (Tamara and Pamela) to be wary of resistance to change. While many organizations appreciate the role of change in their organizations, they comprehend that it is not an easy task and requires strong change management skills (Trotta 23). To that end, the change agents will have the responsibility of explaining the rationale to the branches located overseas. Besides, it is important for change agents to explain the benefits that the organization will stand to gain by integrating its system. For customers, implementing radical changes may present a huge challenge and the clients will need to comprehend the role of technology in the banking system. Trotta says that change initiators should be ready to quell any resistance by customers to embrace change by explaining how they will benefit (41). Recommendations AIB could explore various telecommunication networks and arrive at those that suit their business needs. Wide Area Network (WAN) represents a network that will enable the bank to have a broader coverage of business operations (Laudon and Laudon 45). The telecommunication network enhances o rganizations to relay data to different stakeholders of the bank including employees, stockholders, customers among many others who are located in varied geographical areas. It transfers data over increased distances and utilizes localized computer networks. In this case, AIB will be able to transmit data from and to different branches overseas and enhance it efficiency. Currently, each branches has at least one computer which could be used to enhance WAN’s efficiency.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Second, the bank may explore the properties of Virtual Private Network (VPN) to enhance its information systems. VPN refers to infrastructural network in which an individual may be able to enhance security of information flow (Groth and Skandler 10). It includes the internet. Trotta explicates that VPN allows users and organizations to have a private domain where there is limited access to specific sites (45). This way, the top management team will be able to enhance privacy of information that may relate to the organization. Alternatives Other alternatives that company will explore to enhance branch interconnectedness include core banking, Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), DSL and Frame Relay. Core banking refers to the ability of having a networked system amongst branches in which customers can access banking services and other transactions from different bank branches within the larger banking system. Currently, the apparent lack of an integrated system has made the customers not to access such services across all branches overseas. ATMs will also enhance the flow of data in all branches ensuring that customers will be able to access their monthly statements in ‘a click of a button’. ATMs also enhance the flow of data in the entire banking system without causing backlogs. Frame Relay refers to WAN technology that utilizes packet switching and may be preferable due its cheapness as well as its ease during configuration (Laudon and Laudon 63). Finally, AIB may use Digital Subscriber Line for its availability and fastness in connection. Conclusions and Benefits By installing an integrated system within its branches, AIB stands to gain immensely. At the outset, the bank will improve its management’s efficiency. Unlike before, the bank will have an efficient communication system in which a decision does not receive different interpretations from various branch managers. This will increase the accuracy of executing projects and initiatives wit hout having to rely on a meeting in New York for managers to compile their reports. Besides, the branch managers will be able to submit up to date reports without having to take three months to come up with a comprehensive report. Additionally, the bank stands to gain from an improved data processing and management system. Initially, the bank faced a momentous challenge in storing data and having a consequent backup system. In fact, if such risks as fire and demolition affected a branch, huge amounts of information would be lost. With an integrated system, all transactions are updated upon completion and as such, the customers can experience improved services particularly when they demand their statements. AIB will also save huge amounts of overhead expenses initially incurred. Groth and Skandler assert that organizations reduce labor costs since much of the manual work will now be done by machines (87). This implies that the company will ultimately have to down size. Besides, frequ ent meetings at the headquarters by branch managers will reduce considerably upon installation of such systems. Finally, the bank will reduce the seemingly bulky paperwork. Nonetheless, this is after deciding on the right network infrastructure to roll out. In this case, it is recommended that the bank utilize both the WAN and VPN while exploring other options such as Frame Relay, DSL, Core Banking and ATMs (Laudon and Laudon 87). Groth, David and Skandler, Toby. Network+ Study Guide, Boston, Massachusettes: Sybex Inc, 2009. Print. Laudon, James and Laudon, Peter. Essentials of Management Information Systems, New York: Prentice Hall, 2009. Print. Trotta, Gian. Information Systems Management, Irwin, New York: McGraw Hill Publishers, 2010. Print.

Kickstart Your Writing with Nanowrimo

Kickstart Your Writing with Nanowrimo Kickstart Your Writing with Nanowrimo Kickstart Your Writing with Nanowrimo By Brittiany Cahoon If you find your writing suffering latelyperhaps due to the shifting weather and gray skiesNanowrimo may be just what you need. Founded nine years ago, the yearly write a novel in a month event will have more than 100,000 participants from across the globe trying to write 50,000 words in the month of November. Thats over 1500 words a day, or just over four pages of typed text. It sounds crazy and probably is, but Nanowrimo teaches important writing habits that no fiction writer can afford to ignore: 1. Discipline: Assuming full-time novelists write one or two books a year, that writer probably writes somewhere between 500-1000 words a day. Forcing yourself to write more is like the old story of the marathon runner training with weighted shoes. Once the handicap comes off, youre even faster. 2. Ignoring the internal editor: With a quota of four pages a day, you cant afford to be a perfectionist. Your writing will be full of typos, spelling errors, and idiotic dialogue. Here is a sample from a participant of previous years: I think I am going to go to lunch now. Lunch? Now? Yes, I think this would be a good time. A good time? Why do you think it is a good time? Because I am hungry, and I am bored. But by allowing yourself to write crap you also allow yourself to write, which is more important. 3. Losing control: Many new authors try to control the plots of their stories and novels, resulting in deus ex machina situations, wooden characters, or unbelievable twists. Writing this fast forces you to give up control and simply write what comeswhich can later be edited into something readable without losing the spontaneity and realism in your rough draft. Nanowrimo novels often stink, but participating is a wonderful way to practice the writing habits you need every day of the year. To learn more or to sign up, visit http://nanowrimo.org. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Fiction Writing category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:"Because Of" and "Due To" The Possessive ApostropheEducational vs. Educative

The international finance structure and the IPE of international Debt Essay

The international finance structure and the IPE of international Debt - Essay Example Firstly, chapter 7 denotes the fact that international political economics and the agreements that are associated with it deal with political and economic agreements. As the name implies, development, debt, trade, and resource requisition and distribution are a core complement of the way in which international political economics is currently defined and practice. However, more than just monetary and financial decisions, power politics, namely forcing one state or entity to engage in international political economics to a different degree or extent that they might otherwise be willing, is a fundamental complement of the way in which international political economics is currently defined. Another salient factor that helps to constrain and define the way in which international political economics takes place within the current world is currency rate. Ultimately, even though economic decisions can be made with regard to X product being purchased at any price, the role and extent to whic h exchange rates impact the decisions that international political economics incurs are extraordinary. The impact that the dollar has on setting supply and demand ratios and equilibrium point is profound. However, even though this power is profound, the demand for the dollar is not something that is set in stone. Although the United States government necessarily has a great deal of latitude in respect of the amount of dollars that are in global circulation and â€Å"supply,† the demand for these dollars fluctuates based upon fear or confidence, restricting or expanding the global economy as a function of this faith or fear in the international currency of exchange. An approach that the chapter references with regard to the way in which international political economy is currently defined concerns global economic factors. What is meant by this is that even though the preceding analysis has been wholly concentric upon the way in which state actors can influence the global polit ical economy, the fact of the matter is that non-state actors, indeed individuals, can have a profound impact on the evolution and development of international political economics itself. For instance, currency speculation is one manner through which an individual, or a group of individuals, can have a deep impact on the currency exchange rate and/or an overall level of trust or belief in a given currency. History is replete with examples of individual investors, and groups of investors, that had been able to successfully shake competence or boost confidence in a given currency, and thereby fundamentally alter the way in which international political economics takes place. Although these situations are somewhat less important than the governmental/state decisions that have thus far been discussed and analyzed in terms of supply and demand of a given currency, they are nonetheless definitive and important in determining the future of the international political economic system. Where as chapter 7 is effective in helping to give an overview of the internatio

Write one page about the short story a rose for Emily by William Essay

Write one page about the short story a rose for Emily by William Faulkner - Essay Example Predictable stories are generally boring, and very common. Use of a non-chronological order makes the story more interesting and engaging for the readers. Another reason for the use of the non-chronological order in the story is to guide the readers’ emotions and feelings towards the central character of the play that is Emily. The story starts with the death of Emily that should principally be the end of story. Since the readers can only learn about the character of Emily through the eyes of Jefferson’s people, who discuss her in her absence, the readers tend to empathize with Emily. One example of this is people’s referral to her as â€Å"poor Emily†. In the first place, the title i.e. A Rose for Emily creates a perception in the minds of the readers upfront that Emily is to be empathized with. It creates a psychological effect on the readers so that they start feeling for

Livia 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Livia 2 - Essay Example Janaina Tschà ¤pe was born in Brazil where she lived for most of her life. She got her education in New York and Germany and currently resides in the United States. Paintings in watercolor and oil, photographic and video, and watercolor drawings constitute the survey Janaina Tschà ¤pe: Chimera as organized by curator Rachael Thomas. In most of her works, she employs themes such as danger of beauty, seductions of natures as well as the establishment of personal versions and themes in regard to mythical stories in the context of the themes. Examples include chimera, lemanja, the Brazilian water spirit, mermaids, and sirens. In most instances, most of her works are in regard to a relationship with her body as well as the body’s perception of the world thereby replacing her human body in and with sites of mythical exchange. It is complicated to denote the meanings of these representations and the questions of many are whether these images are results of imagination or mutants as a result of the polluted environment. It is up to the audience to decide on the most viable interpretation in regard to personal experiences and opinions (Janaina & Victoria

Crowdsourcing Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5250 words

Crowdsourcing - Research Paper Example This paper analyzes the term â€Å"crowdsourcing† and its various aspects. This paper will discuss the pros and cons of crowdsourcng, features of crowdsourcing, components of crowdsourcing, crowdsourcing process elements, economic benefits of crowdsourcing and the ways where crowdsourcing is being implemented within various disciplines. CrowdSourcing: An overview The word crowdsourcing is basically concerned with the performance of a business or organization completing a task which is formerly carried out by its own employees and subcontracting or outsourcing it to an indeterminate (as well as usually big) system of community as an open call. This is able to acquire the type of peer creation (as the task is carried out jointly), although is as well frequently assumed by exclusive persons. However, the decisive condition is the utilization of the open invitation system and the huge system of prospective employees. To some extent crowdsourcing is perceived as a word which is eas y to interpret, but identifying the significance of the 2 words those usually form the term i.e. crowd and sourcing and it does not actually clarify its implication. In simple words, ‘crowdsourcing refers to the sourcing or extracting somewhat from a crowd or community, or somewhat that it manages outsourcing, that is eventually a right meaning. Moreover, crowdsourcing is an attractive trend that most of the businesses can apply to increase the efficiency of their functions or operations those would usually be managed through internal sources. Some of these functions comprise design/devising, software programs and product solutions, to study the progress policies of the companies... This essay stresses that the word crowdsourcing is basically concerned with the performance of a business or organization completing a task which is formerly carried out by its own employees and subcontracting or outsourcing it to an indeterminate system of community as an open call. This is able to acquire the type of peer creation, although is as well frequently assumed by exclusive persons. However, the decisive condition is the utilization of the open invitation system and the huge system of prospective employees. As the report declaress to some extent crowdsourcing is perceived as a word which is easy to interpret, but identifying the significance of the 2 words those usually form the term i.e. crowd and sourcing and it does not actually clarify its implication. In simple words, ‘crowdsourcing refers to the sourcing or extracting somewhat from a crowd or community, or somewhat that it manages outsourcing, that is eventually a right meaning. Moreover, crowdsourcing is an attractive trend that most of the businesses can apply to increase the efficiency of their functions or operations those would usually be managed through internal sources. Some of these functions comprise design/devising, software programs and product solutions, to study the progress policies of the companies. Crowdsourcing formulates the easy listening of ideas or inspirations. Placing an idea is rapid and easy task to do. Excluding electing, we are able to as well add to a plan by stating it more precisely.

Write a 500 word Market Research Brief from behalf of a company of Essay

Write a 500 word Market Research Brief from behalf of a company of your choice. The brief can be developed on any kind of problem the company has or may have - Essay Example He is known to push people to accomplish goals and objectives more than they thought they could achieve. He also stretched the possibilities of hardware and software design that yielded revolutionary products of which we enjoy today that often drove his people nuts(time). He was known to become rude, [slave driver at times], unreasonable, fickle, arrogant and even took credit for other’s ideas. But despite these seeming weaknesses, Job’s leadership have undeniably drove the company from near bankruptcy to become one of the most envied companies in the world. This management style of Steve Jobs however is no longer emphasized in the present leadership of Apple. Being such, Apple is bound to have problems without a leadership that is driven to innovate because such leadership and organizational discipline that was instilled by Steve Jobs was the main factor that drove the company to excellence that produced radical innovation. Its new CEO Tim Cook did not have the same drive towards excellence nor have the genius of Jobs to think of revolutionary products that would shake the industry. And due to this shortcoming, he is more predisposed towards what he calls as â€Å"incrementalism† which is essentially just to make things better what Steve Jobs already did. And this new leadership is dangerous to the company because it is one of the management traps that lead a company into a downfall. This is the management leadership trap that Robert Schaeffer articulated in the article â€Å"Mistakes Leaders Keep Making† of failing to pu sh for significant improvement for fear that people are already overwhelmed (2010). As a result, Apple is no longer growing and its former competitive edge of being radically innovative is no longer there. In an industry where change happens at a dizzying pace and products become obsolete overnight, doing the same thing even better is problematic because it

E-Shopping Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

E-Shopping - Assignment Example These technical improvements in consumer electronics also found their way into the Internet. An example of this is on-line casino game sites where the player experiences the thrills of enjoying and playing in almost-realistic casino. This realism extends not only to the quality of the audio produced by the act of playing such as table card games but also in the way the cards slide on the table. The cards seem to glide on a real casino table that is equipped with padding and the cards being dealt do not slide awkwardly as in previous computer programs where they seem slippery like being on top of glass. I believe Internet shopping ten years from now will allow prospective customers to feel, smell and see the real product on-line. This may seem impossible or incredible but scientists have found out that smell is nothing but just a variant of electromagnetic waves. Smell is transmitted by infrared waves and scientists are near to finally finding the solution to the mystery of smell (Grigoryev, Myakishev & Yankovsky, 2001). Similar to what the early movies during the beginning of the previous century, the invention of the phonograph made movies more enjoyable due the added element of sound. Now that scientists have deciphered the mechanism of smell, it might be able to produce and send smell on the Internet. Consumers can see, touch and smell a product (such as perfume) before they will buy

Write a 500 word Market Research Brief from behalf of a company of Essay

Write a 500 word Market Research Brief from behalf of a company of your choice. The brief can be developed on any kind of problem the company has or may have - Essay Example He is known to push people to accomplish goals and objectives more than they thought they could achieve. He also stretched the possibilities of hardware and software design that yielded revolutionary products of which we enjoy today that often drove his people nuts(time). He was known to become rude, [slave driver at times], unreasonable, fickle, arrogant and even took credit for other’s ideas. But despite these seeming weaknesses, Job’s leadership have undeniably drove the company from near bankruptcy to become one of the most envied companies in the world. This management style of Steve Jobs however is no longer emphasized in the present leadership of Apple. Being such, Apple is bound to have problems without a leadership that is driven to innovate because such leadership and organizational discipline that was instilled by Steve Jobs was the main factor that drove the company to excellence that produced radical innovation. Its new CEO Tim Cook did not have the same drive towards excellence nor have the genius of Jobs to think of revolutionary products that would shake the industry. And due to this shortcoming, he is more predisposed towards what he calls as â€Å"incrementalism† which is essentially just to make things better what Steve Jobs already did. And this new leadership is dangerous to the company because it is one of the management traps that lead a company into a downfall. This is the management leadership trap that Robert Schaeffer articulated in the article â€Å"Mistakes Leaders Keep Making† of failing to pu sh for significant improvement for fear that people are already overwhelmed (2010). As a result, Apple is no longer growing and its former competitive edge of being radically innovative is no longer there. In an industry where change happens at a dizzying pace and products become obsolete overnight, doing the same thing even better is problematic because it

How to do qualitative research Essay Example for Free

How to do qualitative research Essay Introduction: Qualitative research is about asking questions and gathering information through words, to then later analyze. One way of doing this is through ethnography. But before any research can be done, there must be a research question. In this case, Do the Olympics cause their audience to act differently than when they are watching any other popular TV show? This question was chosen to clearly outline the process of ethnography, and how it is useful in finding out the information needed to answer this research question. Methodology: An ethnography is A Research approach to understanding the culture of a group (patterns of behaviour/attitudes, how they create meaning), by immersing oneself in the activities of the specific group over a period of time and then writing up a descriptive summary. (Savage 3). An ethnographic approach includes being engaged in and listening to conversations, taking regular notes and collecting artifacts of the group being studied (Savage 7). All of these things later help in writing up a summary of findings that where gathered from the ethnography. There are two main types of ethnography, first there is an overt ethnography where the participants are told they are being observed. This type of ethnography is most commonly used and is less risky because the participants are aware of the study that is taking place. The other type is covert. This is where the researcher is unknown by the participants (Savage 10). The ethnography done about whether the Olympics change the way an audience acts is a covert ethnography. The subjects were unaware of the researcher and the fact that they were being studied and just watched TV as they normally would. Although this study was in a closed setting, there is always a chance of a risk when doing a covert study, because one of the participants may not want to be studied (Savage 9-10). Another important aspect of doing an ethnography is gaining access. Gaining access all depends on whether it is a closed setting or an open setting. Open settings are public settings are are fairly easy to gain access to. They include places like a street corner, or a movie theatre lobby, or city council meetings (Savage 9). Closed settings are non-public settings that are harder to gain access to because they usually require a contact, or permission to get into. Closed settings include families, firms, doctors offices and political parties (Savage 9). These are places that access is only granted to people who have permission. Although, in most cases, a lot of groups that are in a closed setting, have both open and closed settings, so if permission was not granted, then there would still be an opportunity for an ethnography when the group is in an open setting. The ethnography that was done took place in a closed setting and access was granted due to it being at the researchers house. This made it easy to gain access without having to worry about any limits that can sometimes come with closed settings. Summary of Findings For this topic, one would find that using ethnography would be the best way to go about making a research project about the Olympics causing an audience to act differently then when they watch other popular TV shows. This is because the study was about to view two different settings, one of subjects watching a popular TV show (American Idol), and one of subjects watching the Olympic Games. This allowed for a very good comparison between the two, and made answering the research question fairly easy. While doing the ethnography in both settings, being a fly on the wall allowed the researcher to observe how the subjects acted in both situations without being noticed. The setting also helped in disguising the researcher, because the subjects were just told it was homework, or they were used to the researcher being on the computer anyways. If this study were to be conducted as an in-depth interview, the results would be quite different. The interviewee may not know how they react when theyre watching television, or may not notice that they act differently and vise versa, which would then make it difficult to get the desired information. This would put the study at a halt because no relevant information would have been gathered. Conducting an ethnography is the only real way to go about answering this research question. There is a certain level of control that comes with doing an ethnography for this question because the researcher is unknown, this also ensures that the subjects are acting the way the normally would and not acting the way the think they should act. Which is sometimes the case when people are told they are being studied. Also, (in this case) the subjects are somewhat being forced to watch the desired television show. This ensures that the subjects are being exposed to the same show and can allow for more specific research. Ethnography is also useful because it allows for change. If the ethnography were to go on, there would most likely be more television shows to compare the Olympics to, but in this case, the research question could be narrowed down to Do the Olympics cause their audience to act differently than when they are watching American Idol? . If the study were to continue, because it is an ethnography with multiple subjects for each show, there is room for change, and the data that was already collected would still be useful. Whereas if an in-depth interview was to done, and data was collected there is no guarantee that each subject watches the same television shows to be able to compare among the different subject that were interviewed. Key Learnings After choosing to use an ethnography to answer this research question, some things became quite clear. First, when conducting a covert ethnography, sometimes it is not so easy to remain unknown to every subject, and it is difficult to judge what they are thinking or what they will do if they were to find out. This raised the question of what should the researcher do if they are in a closed setting that they cannot leave and a subject did not want to be studied and was very angry? In most closed setting situations, the chances are that it will not be a covert ethnography, but after this covert closed setting ethnography, it was made clear that the position of research should not be made known for the safety of the researcher. This leads to another question about ethics and who should be harmed in that case. If the researcher is in danger of being harmed if they were to tell the subject that they were being studied, and if the researcher did not tell the subject, then it is considered unethical because the subject is being lied to. Does this issue then become an issue of choosing the greater good? In which case, who decides what the greater good is? Second, when doing an ethnography there is not always something useful to take note of. This causes ethnography to be very time consuming because the research must wait until they have all the information needed which may take a very long time if nothing is happening. This causes a problem because there is no guarantee that anything will happen at all that would help the researcher answer their research question. Conclusion: In discussing using ethnography to answer the question of Do the Olympics cause their audience to act differently than when they are watching any other popular TV show? and what was learned, it is safe to conclude that ethnography is the best way to approach a question like this. This is largely due to the method being more successful at gathering information than its alternative, and because there are a number of way that is can be performed to ensure that the researcher is able to get the information needed.

Individual Reflective Account Of Leadership Development

Individual Reflective Account Of Leadership Development Title: A personal reflective narrative on how engaging with the leadership literature has affected my own conceptualisations of leadership. Introduction The theories of transformational leadership (Bass, 1985; Bass and Avolio, 1994) and charismatic leadership (Conger and Kanungo, 1987) represent popular approaches to the conceptualisation of leadership and have arguably evolved to be central to the field. However, a number of scholars have raised several issues with these approaches (Pawar, 2003; Yukl, 1999). and it is the intention here to highlight a number of concerns that relate to the challenge of teaching leadership. This addresses an area of neglect in the literature as there has been limited consideration of the teaching of leadership (Doh, 2003). The Meaning of Leadership Researchers interested in leadership have approached the development of an understanding of leadership from a variety of perspectives. Much of the leadership research conducted during the first half of twentieth century was focused on the identification of personal traits (attributes) that characterised those individuals who emerged as leaders. A review of the leadership literature reveals that there are multiple definitions that have been given to the leadership construct. Bass (1990) focuses on the concept of leadership. He suggests that there are several different approaches to the definition. While each of these perspectives and uses of the term is a legitimate use of the construct of leadership, each reflects a different conceptualization than that which traditionally has been employed. Bass points out that definitions can be used to serve a variety of purposes. Bass (1960) noted that the definition used in a particular study of leadership depends on the purposes of the study. Consistent with this, Yukl (1994:5) concluded that leadership research should be designed to provide information relevant to the entire range of definitions, so that over time it will be possible to compare the utility of different conceptualizations and arrive at some consensus on the matter. Bass (1990:19) further notes that researchers have developed definitions to serve the following different purposes: (1) to identify the object to be observed, (2) to identify a form of practice, (3) to satisfy a particular value orientation, (4) to avoid a particular orientation or implication for a practice, and (5) to provide a basis for the development of theory. The definitions indicate a progression of thought, although historically, many trends overlapped. The earlier definitions identified leadership as a focus of group process and movement, personality in action. The next type considered it as the art of inducing compliance. The more recent definitions conceive of leadership in terms of influence relationships, power differentials, persuasion, influence on goal achievement, role differentiation, reinforcement, initiation of structure, and perceived attributions of behaviour that are consistent with what the what the perceivers believe leadership to be. The truth is that leade rship may in fact involve all these things. Rethinking leadership Barker (1997) argues that the ambiguity surrounding what we understand as leadership is central to the struggle of teaching leadership. Rost (1991) indeed notes that the leadership literature although vast, is often contradictory, confusing and lacks cohesion. BrymanHYPERLINK http://0-www.emeraldinsight.com.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/journals.htm?issn=0143-7739volume=27issue=2articleid=1545747show=html#idb11HYPERLINK http://0-www.emeraldinsight.com.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/journals.htm?issn=0143-7739volume=27issue=2articleid=1545747show=html#idb11s (1996) documentation of four chronological phases of leadership theory, is illustrative of changing conceptions of leadership: Trait theories (concerned with an identification of leaders traits). Behavioural theories (concerned with identification of behavioural styles of leaders). Contingency theories (concerned with a focus on fitting behavioural styles to situational factors). New theories of leadership (concerned with a focus on the articulation of a vision). Arguably, such new theories of leadership have over recent years evolved as central to our understanding of leadership with an emphasis on transformational leadership where a leader stimulates followers to change their motives, beliefs and values and capabilities so that the followers own interests and personal goals become congruent with the organisation (Bass, 1985). An important facet of this leadership is charisma, and indeed Conger and Kanungo (1987) have developed a leadership theory that specifically focuses on this dimension. Conger HYPERLINK http://0-www.emeraldinsight.com.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/journals.htm?issn=0143-7739volume=27issue=2articleid=1545747show=html#idb17et al.HYPERLINK http://0-www.emeraldinsight.com.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/journals.htm?issn=0143-7739volume=27issue=2articleid=1545747show=html#idb17 (2000, p. 748) suggest that charismatic leaders differ from other leaders by their ability to formulate and articulate an inspirational vision and by behaviours that they and their mission are extraordinary. In both models there is a common suggestion of a leader inspiring followers to a shared vision. This conceptualisation has arguably become widely accepted in the literature. However, some have questioned such mainstream thinking and invite a greater openness to the consideration of leadership than is presently found (Alvesson and Sveningsson, 2003). It is suggested here that a notion of a leader inspiring followers to a shared vision represents only one way to think about leadership and may not be of much assistance to those concerned with the teaching of leadership. It is in this respect that I intend to argue that this dominant conceptualisation represents a particular way of thinking about organisations and managerial work (of which leadership is one aspect), namely what may be described as systems-control thinking. Systems-control orthodoxy tends to promote a rather mechanistic view of organisations and managerial work seeing managing as an activity mainly concerned with designing and controlling work organisations as if they were big machine-like systems rationally devised to meet unambiguous organisational goals (Watson, 2005, p. 2). Such thinking derives from modernist and universalistic aspirations to maximise control over human circumstances with the manager being viewed as an expert who controls and motivates subordinates to behave in particular ways consistent with the organisations goals. Indeed, Barker (2001, p. 479) challenges the notion of new leadership theory, arguing that the work of Bass (1985, 1990) for example, clings to the idea that leadership is about leaders supervising subordinates, about subordinates working hard toward institutional objectives as the primary goal for leadership and about the leaders ability to persuade/inspire/motivate subordinates to release their own n eeds to work toward the interests of the leader or the institution that the leader represents. The extent then to which new theories provide an alternative perspective of leadership is thus questionable since along with previous conceptualisations, they continue to be framed by systems-control thinking. It is suggested that an alternative way to think about leadership is to adopt process-relational thinking. To adopt such thinking would be to recognise that: Managers like everyone else in organisational settings, are continually striving to make sense of numerous crosscutting and conflicting goals and purposes. Managers and non-managers alike constantly have to make and remake bargains, exert power, resist power, cope with conflicts of interest and negotiate understandings with others to make sure that the goods are produced or services provided to a level and quality that enables the organisation to remain in existence (Watson, 2005, pp. 2-3). The origins of such thinking may be seen to be associated with a dissatisfaction with mainstream systems-control thinking and in particular, the critique of Silverman (1970) which drew upon ideas from social action theory (Berger and Luckman, 1967), highlighting an understanding of organisations as social constructs produced and reproduced through their members activities and later being built upon to emphasise the notion of negotiated order (Day and Day, 1977). To view the organisation in process-relational terms thus involves a shift from seeing the organisation as a goal pursuing entity as suggested by a systems-control perspective to thinking about the organisation as ongoing patterns of meaning making and activity brought about as à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ people in relationships to others and to their cultures (Watson, 2005, p. 6). Viewing the organisation through a process-relational lens thus accepts that only partial managerial control can ever be achieved given the ongoing and emerge nt nature of organisational activity and the centrality of people in relationships to others with their inevitable complexities and differing interests. However, it is important to note that the adoption of a process-relational perspective (or indeed a systems-control one) goes beyond a way of seeing the organising and managing of work, it also represents a way of talking and acting towards organising and managing. Thus a manager who adopts a process-relational framework is more likely to take into account broader and more-subtle aspects of work behaviour. Arguably, the central notion of leaders inspiring followers to a shared vision seen in new leadership theories becomes more problematic when thinking in process-relational terms. It is thus suggested here that thinking about leadership in process-relational terms may be more helpful to management educators as it does greater justice to the complex, messy realities of organisational life and as such provides greater assistance in helping managers to make sense of their management practice, and in particular, the part of their practice that is leadership. Systems-control vs process-relational framing of leadership It is suggested that theories of transformational and charismatic leadership are tied to a systems-control perspective of organisations. Below we raise a number of issues that emerge from the adoption of such a perspective. The issues raised here are by no means exhaustive but rather serve to illustrate some of the difficulties in framing leadership in a systems-control way and in particular ensuing tensions for the teaching of leadership draws on the work of Watson (2005) and summarises the issues discussed below, highlighting the central features of a systems-control leadership perspective contrasted with a process-relational one. We problematise a number of features of systems-control thinking in relation to leadership, namely the assumption of a unitary organisation; the emphasis placed upon the individual leader often portrayed in terms of superhero status and the subsequent neglect of others involved in leadership processes, and relatedly the separation and elevation of leaders hip from other organisational activities. We suggest that adopting a process-relational leadership perspective offers a more grounded and realistic conceptualisation which accepts the plurality of organisational life, focuses on leadership as an emergent process which includes the contributions of others and sees leadership as integral to the organising and managing of work. The unitary and fixed organisation Central to systems-control thinking is a notion of the pursuit of clear organisational goals, designed by the manager or leader who then motivates others to act in ways which will achieve these goals. It is suggested that this is problematic for a number of reasons. Such a way of thinking about leadership is based upon a unitary view of organisations that proposes all organisational members share the goals of the organisation and are thus motivated to act in ways that will ensure the realisation of such goals. Both transformational and charismatic leadership theories can be seen to uphold unitarist assumptions. Central to Basss theory is a notion of subordinates transcending their self interests for the goals of the organisation, with Bass and Avolio (1994, p. 3) for example suggesting that the (transformational) leader creates clearly communicated expectations that followers want to meet, and similarly Conger and Kanungo (1987) hypothesise that charismatic leadership will result in high internal cohesion, low internal conflict, high value congruence and high consensus. It is suggested that such assumptions are problematic since they downplay the multitude of conflicting goals, purposes and beliefs that organisational members hold in reality that seriously questions ideals of consensus and cohesion. Although Bass and Avolio (1994) acknowledge that followers hold a diverse set of views, needs and aspirations, they suggest that through the use of inspirational motivation the leader is able to align diverse followers around a vision. Thus there remains a belief that high consensus can be achieved and thus conflict, negotiation and politics that are inevitable in organisations tend to be marginalised. Notably, Barker (1997) reminds us of BurnsHYPERLINK http://0-www.emeraldinsight.com.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/journals.htm?issn=0143-7739volume=27issue=2articleid=1545747show=html#idb12HYPERLINK http://0-www.emeraldinsight.com.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/journals.htm?issn=0143-7739 volume=27issue=2articleid=1545747show=html#idb12s (1978) definition of leadership which emphasises leadership as a process which occurs within a context of competition and conflict. Interestingly, Basss theory of transformational leadership has built upon Burnss work and yet downplays this important dimension. It may be argued that assumptions of a unitary organisation may oversimplify the reality that is found in organisations. Similarly, systems-control thinking implies that the goals of the organisation are somehow fixed and once achieved the work of the leader is done. Again, this is seen to oversimplify the case. Conger and Kanungo, 1987, p. 46) exemplify a focus on achievement of fixed goals suggesting that one cannot lead when there is no future goal to pursue. This is seen to ignore the essentially emergent nature of organisational life in that organising and managing is in a constant state of becoming (Watson, 2002). The fluid and dynamic nature of organisations makes it difficult to envisage when there would be no future goal to pursue. Generally, given that models of transformational and charismatic leadership are framed by systems-control thinking means that they may be seen as less helpful in assisting managers to understand leadership as they do not do justice to the complex reality found in organisations. Recent leadership research and findings from our own work further suggest a number of issues with such theories that relate to this tendency to present an oversimplified and sometimes romanticised view of organisational life. The promotion of the superhero Consistent with systems-control thinking, theories of transformational and charismatic leadership present an individualistic conception of leadership, since there is a focus on the leader as a special person. Indeed, there is a focus on a gifted individual seemingly in possession of almost superhuman, magical powers that may be seen to spellbind followers to act in ways desired by the leader. Words such as extraordinary, unconventional and heroic typify a description of leader behaviours. Bass (1985, pp. 47-48) for example, highlights the extraordinariness of the transformational, charismatic leader suggesting that the unusual vision of charismatic leaders that makes it possible for them to see around corners stems from their greater freedom from internal conflict whereas the ordinary manager is a continuing victim of their self doubts and personal traumas. However, it is unclear from the literature what exactly it means to be extraordinary or unconventional and therefore limited hel p is offered to our practical attempts to teach leadership. Moreover, Alimo-Metcalfe HYPERLINK http://0-www.emeraldinsight.com.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/journals.htm?issn=0143-7739volume=27issue=2articleid=1545747show=html#idb1et al.HYPERLINK http://0-www.emeraldinsight.com.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/journals.htm?issn=0143-7739volume=27issue=2articleid=1545747show=html#idb1 (2002) argue that new theories of leadership create dangerous myths because they create a notion of leadership that is inaccessible to most ordinary mortals. Further, the idea that a leader must in some way be gifted shows a regression to notions of leadership as an innate ability and as such suggests little can be done by way of teaching leadership. Indeed, in my own auditing work, I found several managers who perceived leadership as an inspirational gift and therefore attempts to teach leadership were seen as limited: I dont think good leaders are people that you can, I think the term is a good leader is born, you cant turn somebody from being a poor leader into a good leader by putting them on some courses à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ that sort of inspirational skill is something that that individual has and I dont think you can always train that into somebody (project manager). Whilst the notion of heroic leadership may hold weight for some there is a growing body of evidence that debunks this leadership myth. Numerous studies are now found which may be said to contribute to an emerging anti-heroic leadership perspective which suggests leaders are not larger than life individuals with special powers rather they are far more ordinary and reserved. The work of Alimo-Metcalfe and Alban-Metcalfe (2001) offers a very different conception of transformational leadership to that described earlier. Their work highlights the salience of what the leader does for the individual such as empowering, valuing, supporting and encouraging. This is contrasted with dominant ideas of the leader acting as a role model and inspiring the follower. Indeed, Alimo-Metcalfe and Alban-Metcalfe suggest that followership, so central to transformational and charismatic leadership theory is absent in their work. Comments made by managers during my own audit work were consistent with this view with managers talking of supporting and encouraging others rather than inspiring followers: Well those things leadership can be a reassurance, a firm decision, a supportive decision, giving people encouragement, being actually prepared to stick your head above the parapet where other people arent sometimes. Being decisive rather than indecisive. Not always leading from the front but just letting people know that you are supportive of what they are doing that they can rely on you if things go wrong (operations director). Taking away the notion of followership diminishes the importance of the heroic leader since there is a decreased need for an inspirational figure to model the way for followers. Instead Alimo-Metcalfe and Alban-Metcalfe (2001) argue that their work suggests a greater sense of proximity, openness, humility and vulnerability. Collins (2001) provides evidence that suggests that successful organisations do not have leaders who are charismatic, heroic figures but rather individuals who display personal humility and professional will. He found that successful leaders which he terms level five leaders, were shy unpretentious, awkward and modest but at the same time had an enormous amount of ambition not for themselves but the organisation. Similarly, Badaracco (2001) suggests the importance of quiet leadership. This is seen not to inspire or thrill, but to focus on small things, careful moves and measured efforts. He further suggests that quiet leaders have an understanding of the reality of their situations noting the limits of their powers and understanding that they are only one piece on the chessboard. This emerging work would seem to conceptualise leadership in perhaps more realistic ways focusing attention away from ideas of inspirational powers and instead a suggestion of an ordinary person working alon gside others. This is consistent with a process-relational framing of leadership since it is recognised that leaders are like everybody else and do not possess special powers thus moving attention away from ideas of special personality attributes. Thus there is hope for the majority of being able to contribute to leadership and a suggestion that there may be some role for the management teacher. The isolated leader and the neglect of group processes The focus on the heroic leader is problematic since it diverts attention from others involved in the leadership process and thus downplays the relational aspects of leadership. Whilst the contribution of followers is noted, there is a tendency to over emphasise the ability of the individual leader, this is perhaps exemplified when poor performance is automatically blamed on the actions of the leader (Khurana, 2002). Yukl (1999) proposes that instead of focusing on a single person who influences followers, many people can be viewed as contributors to the overall process of leadership in organisations. He suggests that this conception of leadership does not require an individual who is exceptional or who can perform all of the essential leadership functions, only a set of people who collectively perform them. Research undertaken by Heifetz and Laurie (2001) supports the notion of a more collaborative conception of leadership. They suggest that the leader is not somebody who has all the solutions at their disposal; rather they are somebody who asks questions. They suggest that one can lead with no more than a question in hand. Research carried out with directors of public health in the UK supports the notion of focusing on others in the leadership process (McAreavey HYPERLINK http://0-www.emeraldinsight.com.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/journals.htm?issn=0143-7739volume=27issue=2articleid=1545747show=html#idb28et al.HYPERLINK http://0-www.emeraldinsight.com.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/journals.htm?issn=0143-7739volume=27issue=2articleid=1545747show=html#idb28, 2001). The directors of public health interviewed in McAreavey HYPERLINK http://0-www.emeraldinsight.com.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/journals.htm?issn=0143-7739volume=27issue=2articleid=1545747show=html#idb28et al.HYPERLINK http://0-www.emeraldinsight.com.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/journals.htm?issn=0143-7739volume=27issue=2articleid=1545747show=html#idb28HYPERLINK http://0-www.emeraldinsight.com.emu.londonmet.ac.uk/journals.htm?issn=0143-7739volume=27issue=2articleid=1545747show=html#idb28s (2001) study suggested that effective leadership placed an emphasis on working with others a nd not guiding others. These shifts in focus are consistent with work by Barker (1997) and Rost (1991) who suggested that we should be focusing on group processes and think of collaborators and not followers and thus is in accordance with Alimo-Metcalfe and Alban-Metcalfes rejection of followership. Yukl (1999) has criticised transformational and charismatic leadership theories for a neglect of group processes and thus salient aspects of leadership are overlooked such as networking, building support for ideas and negotiation. Such arguments echo Hosking (1988) who proposed that it would be more helpful to focus on leadership as a process rather than leaders as persons which is clearly to frame leadership in process-relational terms. It is suggested here that viewing leadership as a collaborative process of interaction provides for a more grounded notion of leadership and thus potentially provides more helpful suggestions for teaching leadership. For example, a focus on helping leaders in their attempts to negotiate seems more achievable than helping leaders to inspire others. The separation of leadership and management Inherent to theories of transformational and charismatic leadership is a notion that leadership is a specialised and separate activity undertaken by heroic, isolated figures described above. This division of leadership is typical of orthodox management thinking which separates issues of managerial work tending to view these as identifiable and distinct (Watson, 2002). As Schruijer and Vansina (2002) argue such splitting obscures the complexity of life. Further, there is a tendency not only to see leadership as separate from management but also superior. In Basss theory for example, management is associated with transactional leadership which is seen to be a useful but inferior leadership approach, which is relatively simple and straightforward to achieve. Bass (1985, p. 26) argues that to be transactional is the easy way out; to be transformational is the more difficult path to pursue. Such a separation is upheld by numerous scholars such as Zaleznik (1992) who suggests that managers are concerned with humdrum activities and maintaining order whereas leaders are concerned with novel and exciting activities and stimulate change. Mangham and Pye (1991, p. 13) have criticised this separation arguing that: It results in nothing more than a vague feeling that managing is something rather mundane, looking after the nuts and bolts of the enterprise and leading is something special and precious undertaken by the really important people in the enterprise. They argue that leading is not a specialised and separate activity, but simply an aspect albeit a highly salient aspect, of managing. Others have similarly suggested that leadership and management may be more usefully seen as related roles rather than as separate activities undertaken by separate people (Nadler and Tushman, 1990; Yukl, 1999).