Peter principle Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Peter principle - Research Paper Example o the skills required for a specific position of employment, and this idea was not taken into account in the supposedly common sense beliefs of traditional promotions.While the idea was first proposed with a humorous edge, the true implications of the theory were not that funny. The Peter Principle may expose an inherent flaw in the hierarchical promotion system that is used by many companies. Promotions may come from within a company that operates in an employment hierarchy. When this is the case, we may be tempted to believe that a person has been promoted because they are the best fitting candidate for the tasks associated with the position. However, it is just as likely that the promoted employee was selected for overall competence, rather than for any position-specific qualities. The lack of the required skill-set, as related to a position recently obtained through promotion, to perform a job effectively will consistently produce results that highlight the promoted candidate’s newfound incompetence. However, according to Dr. Peter, these employees would not face a risk of job termination unless they were so incompetent that it basically defines their being. Any level of incompetence below this line would simply fit in with other instances of promotions that are not based on specific skill sets, leaving us with a business that is defined by mediocrity. The Peter Principle has brought concern to many organizations that operate in a hierarchical manner, and as a result there have been studies developed with the goal of counteracting this effect. A 2010 study (Pluchino, Rapisarda, and Garofalo 467) discusses the principle and how its accuracy would indicate a high level of company-wide inefficiency taking place in many organizations. The researchers used a complicated computational model to test the efficiency of several promotional strategies that could be employed within a company’s hierarchy by their resistance to the Peter Principle. The results showed

Instructural planning and design Essay Example for Free

Instructural planning and design Essay It is highly recognized by people that strong educational background and good educational status juxtaposed with a strong conviction to reach a goal could alleviate a person’s status in life. I believe that teachers share the burden of the parents for encouraging children to learn. It is highly regarded that teachers are the next person who has the power to sway children to a path towards the future. It is natural then that selecting programs and lessons for the students are vital in honing the abilities of the children and to help them learn more. Apt learning tools then are essentially the number one concern of the teachers. If teachers have the power to influence children then it would be necessary that they take the load seriously. A failure on the part of the teacher might become a loss for the child’s chances in the near future. Teachers in this case then would have to create plans that could holistically hone the capabilities and abilities of the children as well as encouraging them towards the path of a future determined to attain better education. The best way to do this then is that the teacher should be able to create plans that are recreational in nature as well as informative. I believe that the best way for creating this atmosphere is for teachers to be able to share the enthusiasm that he/she may have for the particular subject that he/she is teaching. Over enthusiasm might be too much optimism but enough impression could leave a definite mark on the children. I find it helpful to create an atmosphere that knowledge could give us the power. Along with this ambiance are the suitable programs and lessons that would be discussed in class. The first thing to consider then is the instructional levels. This level is where a teacher would gauge his/her lessons to a right medium of instruction that he/she would adopt. Dealing with pre-school students would require patience and a level of instruction fit for the students. Take for example in teaching children to read. It should be noted by the teacher that the best way to do this is for him/her to be able to recognize the reading capabilities of each and every student that he/she is handling. The first thing to notice here then is to see if whether or not the capacities of the students are somewhat in tuned with each other. It seems that there would be instances where reading lessons would elicit different responses form the students. The most important thing that the teacher should be able to grasp here is that in the formative years of the children, there could be instances that learning disabilities might occur. Necessarily, the teacher should be able to identify these problems so that he/she could be able to address these problems. A good start would be for the teachers to encourage children to read aloud in the classroom and establish ways that could gain the participation of the children. There would be instances that a child might be reluctant to read in front of the class since he/she would fear to commit mistakes. That is why encouragement is a best solution. The development levels of each if these students may vary then. The background of the students would have to be taken into consideration. There are natural instances that a student may develop faster than others. So in this case the teacher should be able to devise a plan that would encourage the fast learners without disregarding those who are slow to catch up. It is appropriate this way since this would not promote discrimination. Discrimination might only lead to a child to be discouraged about his/her skills. Aside from the proper instructional level, the teacher should be able to grasp the development levels of each student that she has. A best way to do this is through the non verbal communication between you and the students. A simple frown might be seen in different ways but inside a classroom it could be seen as not being able to understand what was said. As what was implied above, it would then be healthy for teachers to be able to adjust along the way for the benefit of the entirety of the class (Siobhan Leahy, 2005). A good example to address developmental level is for the teacher to realize which level he/she is teaching. A math subject during the formative years would be essential for the secondary level of the students. It would then be advisable that the teacher focus on creating an atmosphere where children would not have to resort memorization but also have the full understanding of what they are memorizing. The next thing to be considered is the learning disabilities of the students. Younger children could have the ability to learn to hide these disabilities that is why teachers are suggested to have constant vigilance. It is not an easy task to know which student have learning disabilities and people could not automatically tell (Learning Disabilities, 2007). An example for this instance is a student who is dyslexic. Having a hard time to decipher words and letters is problem for the students and teachers as well since this could hinder the progress that is needed for the student. What the teacher could do if he/she would encounter this problem is to approach the student in a way that would not embarrass him/her. After such deed would be done, the best way for children to catch up with this disability is for the teacher to suggest tutors for the child. This tutor may be the teacher or a special teacher or the parents of the child who has full knowledge in addressing this problem. Alerting the parents could very well help in this instance. In a classroom setting the teacher could devise a lesson plan that could help by using the other senses of the children. It was said that multi-sensory teaching in the classroom could help improve a child’s learning disability. Perusing of the sense of touch could be helpful by asking the students to have a creative output of the letters or numbers. Creative in a sense that the teacher could make the letters or numbers be available for the sense of touch especially when it could help the children cling to have a tangible image of what they are reading (Bradford, 2000). Going back to the reading levels, a teacher then should be able to use appropriate reading materials that his/her students would need. As I have repeatedly said earlier, students’ reaction to a reading material may vary and their abilities may also vary. In this aspect, the teacher could be able to help the child’s development through the parents or the family. It was said that the family, especially the parents, have a great influence on the child. A home conducive for learning is the best recourse for this problem. Of course this may be a problem since not all households are the same for the children. It would then be the responsibility of the teacher to double her efforts in teaching the children. As was also suggested above, teachers should be flexible enough for the betterment of his/her teaching strategies. It would then be necessary that the teacher could be able to devise a concrete curriculum. This curriculum then could serve as a rough draft of what the teacher ought to achieve by the end of every semester. Naturally, these curriculums are usually rigid. Creating a flexible curriculum then could be the best recourse especially when taking into consideration what was said above. The importance of this alignment of curricular goals is that would generate a standard that the teacher ought to be teaching the child at the same time it could give him/her a better idea of what should be learned in the level of what he/she is teaching. The standard then could be checked through the standards of the school. Making the curriculum flexible then would mean that the standards are there but the activities that would be done would vary from time to time especially when other teachers have a tendency to just create a repetitive scene or method of what they were doing for the past years that they were teaching. Take for example, if a teacher is teaching the basics of math and number then arranging the lesson plan according to the standards set would help and then activities would become flexible according to the necessity that these activities would have for a certain aspect of the subject. Some students seldom aim in ‘getting by’ the subject without full understanding that upon reaching the secondary level of math, they have a hard time grasping the complexities that are presented to them. It is essential then that the teacher choose curriculums and activities fit for the goal of understanding math rather than just letting the students memorize the numbers. Leaving a certain shadow of the numbers in the back of a child’s mind would be helpful. In doing what was suggested as a solution for the learning disability, the teacher could then leave the impression of a memory that the child could easily access in his/her mind. Let’s say the number ‘5’, a string glued to the shape of a ‘5’ could help a child in remembering that a five usually feels like making an‘s’ but with a much rigid first curve above and a horizontal line for the top. The plans and how the teachers execute these plans would have to be taken into consideration. Becoming a teacher is no mean feat especially when you have the power to influence the students and it is up to the teacher therefore on how a student might perceive the educational perspective in life. References Bradford, J. (2000). Using Multisensory Teaching Method.Retrieved September 5, 2007, from http://www. dyslexia-parent. com/mag30. html Learning Disabilities. (2007). Retrieved August 21, 2007, from http://www. kidshealth. org/PageManager. jsp? dn=KidsHealthlic=1article_set=32422cat_id=20167 Siobhan Leahy, C. L. , Marnie Thompson, Dylan Wiliam. (2005). Classroom Assessment: Minute by Minute, Day by Day [Electronic Version]. Assessment to Promote Learning, 63, 19-24. Retrieved August 21, 2007 from http://www. ascd. org/portal/site/ascd/template. MAXIMIZE/menuitem. 459dee008f99653fb85516f762108a0c/? javax. portlet. tpst=d5b9c0fa1a493266805516f762108a0c_ws_MXjavax.portlet. Prp_d5b9c0fa1a493266805516f762108a0c_journaltypeheaderimage=%2FASCD%2Fimages%2Fmultifiles%2Fpublications%2Felmast. gifjavax. portlet. prp_d5b9c0fa1a493266805516f762108a0c_viewID=article_viewjavax. portlet. prp_d5b9c0fa1a493266805516f762108a0c_journalmoid=e9e66a50a9337010VgnVCM1000003d01a8c0RCRDjavax. portlet. Prp_d5b9c0fa1a493266805516f762108a0c_articlemoid=72276a50a9337010VgnVCM1000003d01a8c0RCRDjavax. portlet. prp_d5b9c0fa1a493266805516f762108a0c_journalTypePersonalization=ASCD_ELjavax. portlet. begCacheTok=tokenjavax. portlet. endCacheTok=token.

Criticism of Pascals Wager Essays -- Religion, Does God Exist?

The proof for the existence of God is an issue that may never be resolved. It has caused division among families and friends, nations and society. The answer to the question â€Å"does God exist?† is almost an impossible one to give with certainty seeing that there is a variety of people, ideas, cultures and beliefs. So how does one know if one’s actions here on earth could have eternal consequences? What is, if any, a â€Å"safe bet† to make? Blaise Pascal was a 15th century philosopher and a mathematician who proposed the idea that although one cannot know for certain that God exists, one can make a â€Å"safe bet† that it is far better to believe in God than not to believe in God. This is not a proof for the existence of God but rather an idea that suggest that if there is a God, it is in the person’s benefit to believe rather to disbelieve because the odds are in favor of the believer. This gambler-like idea is better known as â€Å"Pascal†™s Wager† or â€Å"The Gambler’s Argument.† Nevertheless, this sort of play-the-ponies idea is not quite precise. Although Pascal’s Wager serves as a stepping-stone for non-believers, it is a rather vague, faithless and inaccurate argument. Pascal’s wager takes the position of a gambler. It says that it is far more logical to believe in God because the odds are in one’s favor. Pascal lays it down on a diagram like so: if one believes in God and lives a good, moral, and Christian life and in the end finds that God exists, that person has hit the jack-pot, if I may, gaining eternal life in the presence of God. At the same time, if the aforementioned person comes to the end of life and finds out that God does not exist, then that person really did not loose all that much. Sure probably missed a few parties, didn’t dr... ...ople to come back to Church and to believe in God but not out of self-interest. In order for the argument to accomplish this it must first be rewritten. It needs to define its terms (i.e. the use of the word God), it should not be based on chance or self-interest but rather to make known to the person that it is quite possible that God exists, and finally, it should include a fifth outcome where a person believes in God out of self-interest and is eternally damned anyway for lack of faith, love and for selfishness. Pascal’s Wager calls to mind a famous quote by Albert Camus: â€Å"I would rather live my life as if there is a God and die to find out there isn't, than live my life as if there isn't and die to find out there is.† Until Pascal’s argument is solid and fully developed, one should not adopt the argument as a mean for conversion, evangelization or lifestyle.

Direct and Indirect Cash Flow Essay

(According to â€Å"According to â€Å"What Is The Difference Between The Direct Method And The Indirect Method For The Statement Of Cash Flows?† (2004-2014),) â€Å"The main difference between the direct method and the indirect method involves the cash flows from operating activities, the first section of the statement of cash flows. (There is no difference in the cash flows reported in the investing and financing activities sections.) Under the direct method, the cash flows from operating activities will include the amounts for lines such as cash from customers and cash paid to suppliers. In contrast, the indirect method will show net income followed by the adjustments needed to convert the total net income to the cash amount from operating activities. The direct method must also provide a reconciliation of net income to the cash provided by operating activities. This is done automatically under the indirect method. Nearly all corporations prepare the statement of cash flows using the indirect method.† The reason for financial accounting standards board allows both methods are simple. Both statements of cash flow preparation methods are allowable under basic accounting standards. â€Å"The Financial Accounting Standards Board, however, prefers the direct method for the statement of cash flows. FASB prefers the method because business stakeholders find the statement easier to read than the indirect statement of cash flows. Companies prefer the indirect method as it is easier to prepare since the financial information is already at hand. Companies can include disclosures with either the direct or indirect statement of cash flows. These disclosures can detail any non-cash financing and investing activities. FASB often requires disclosures with the statement of cash flows. Companies can prepare a secondary statement noting any significant non-cash activities for stakeholders† (â€Å"Direct Vs. Indirect Cash Flow Method†, 1999-2014). References What is the difference between the direct method and the indirect method for the statement of cash flows? (2004-2014). Retrieved from http://www.accountingcoach.com Direct vs. Indirect Cash Flow Method. (1999-2014). Retrieved from http://www.ehow.com

Spanish & Russian Empires

The age of exploration, a period of expansion for many Eurasian empires occured between 1450 and 1800. During this period both the Spanish and thep Russian empires were able to advance economically from their connections with societies westward. Both empires used some form of a labor system in order to support their social structures, despite the fact that where the laborers originated was different within the two empires. From a political standpoint, both empires were run under an autocratic government. This period was extremely crtical to the development of both the Spanish and Russian empires. Both the Spanish and Russian empires were goeverned by an autocratic body of government. The Russian empire was ruled by a czar, while the title of the head of Spain is a king. The set up of the government of the Spanish empire was probably was developed by the catholic church, while the Russians probably modeled their government after ideas borrowed from the west. From a pollitical standpoint the major difference between the empires was that the Spanish was a maritime empire while the Russian were a landbased empire. While the Spanish focused primarily on expanding overseas, the Russians felt it was better to expandm without traveling overseas. Since the Spanish also controlled land overseas they developed a system known as viceroyalty, where a govenor was put in place to oversee the control of the Spanish colonies in the new world. The Spanish and Russian empires both developed a similar social structure. At the bottom of social structure within both empires were the labor workers. Since both economies flourished based on agricultural successes, both societies required a group of people to work the lands. The Spanish relied primarily on forced laborers from outside of their colonies, typically consisting of slaves from Africa and the native Americans. Unlike the Spanish, the Russians looked towards locals to take part in a form of serfdom. Both the Spanish and Russian empires looked westward for ways to move foreward. The Spanish focused on economical advancements while the Russian empire focused mainly on social aspects. The Russians focused on social aspects because they felt that thier submission to the mongols had put them at a severe disadvantage to the europeans. The Russians borrowed estern ideas such as those used in art, architecture, and justice. The Spanish and Russian empires were both agricullturally based. The Spanish was an empire that not only developed domestic trade but also traded overseas. The Spanish basically single-handedly brought the new world into the worldwide economy. The Spanish were at the forefront of the triangle trade which pumped alot of money into th e European economy. The Columbian Exchange brought a lot of new cash and staple crops into Europe such as potatoes and tobacco. The Russian empire however focused on developing a local economy. The local peasentry was forced into serfdom. The strict enforcement of serfdom was put in place to work the land that supports Russian economy. The age of exploration, from 1450 to 1800 was a critical point in the development of many of the Eurasian empires. Despite being seperated by vast expanses of geographical features, ideas were able to blend profusely within seperate cultures. Clearly no amount of division can stop the bridge between the building of two different empires. ———————————————————————————–

A Synopsis of the Movie Billy Elliot Essay Example

A Synopsis of the Movie Billy Elliot Essay Example A Synopsis of the Movie Billy Elliot Paper A Synopsis of the Movie Billy Elliot Paper This theory Is based on the Idea that In relationships benefits must outweigh cost to have a compatible relationship. In the movie of Billy Elliot, this is extremely obvious in the relationship of Billy and Mrs.. Wilkinson. These two put in time and effort so that they can reap the benefits later in the movie, Mrs.. Wilkinson teaches Billy how to dance for free during her free time. She wishes nothing more then for him to succeed and In turn he lives out the dream she never could. In the opposite, Billy works hard because he sees that Mrs.. Wilkinson dream was never achieved and he wishes to do well not only for himself but for her as well. He also sees that If he does well, he will later be able to use his talents to make a living while doing what he enjoys. In both situations the work put into the relationship between the two is outweighed by the benefits which come from the effort put in. This is also very obvious in the the strike itself, the union feels as if the costs of working are not worth what they get In return so they decided It was time to do something about it. On the there hand, the government feels the opposite, In that the work the minors put In Is either equal to the benefits or more then what they deserve to have. The government also feels that even without the striking men they still receive what they need for the remaining workers, so their needs are being met by the workers costs while those remaining minors have the same feeling towards the government. Conflict Theory: The conflict theory is the idea that, there are levels in society and there will always been conflict between those. Such groups as the bourgeoisie who are the rich and rueful control the proletariat who are the working people. These two groups are always fighting to better themselves which creates conflict between the them. In the example of Billy Elliot, Bubbly brother Tony and father Jackie work as minors who represent the proletariat. They are also part of the the minors union who are on strike and fighting the government, who are the bourgeoisie for their rights. The workers want better conditions and more money while the government wants to keep down costs. The government works hard to oppress the minors with violence and force. In turn this creates more conflict then the strike which is going on already. This conflict Is prevalent throughout the entire film as the government and union fight until the bitter end where the government wins the battle. In the situation of Billy himself this theory is seen. Billy who would be considered the proletariat is being controlled by his family and friends and how they think of him and his choices. His friends and family are the bourgeoisie and they wish for him to be a certain masculine way and do now believe that ballet is something that he would do. They believe that If he does ballet he Is gay and because this is not what they believe In they oppress Bubbly dreams and aspirations. At one point, Bubbly father even takes away ten money en need Ecological Theory: s Tort Nils Dealer lessons so en cannot go anymore. This is the theory that explains there are four levels to life, these level all affect the smallest level of micro indirectly. The next level is the mess, then ex. and finally the macro level. The micro level for example is a child and family, in this level everybodys actions affect each other directly. As you move outward into the other levels the people in those levels actions indirectly have an affect on the micro level such as teachers providing the students with knowledge, on the ex. level the parents life and city affect the child or family in either adverse or positive manners. Finally comes the macro level which is something such as national issues or government which can affect peoples lifestyles and actions. Now in Billy Elliot you see this as Billy, the father, brother and grandmother represent micro. Also Mrs.. Wilkinson, Debbie Wilkinson, ND Michael Jeffrey are the mess level then comes the ex. level which is reflected by the union and their fight against the government who is the macro level. All these people and organizations have a direct or indirect affect on Billy. His family forces him to be a certain way and the way they act influences Billy to go into boxing and not ballet. Then comes Mrs.. Wilkinson, her daughter, his friend Michael, his boxing coach and the pianist who try to influence Billy to go in one direction or another. As you move up through the levels it is possible to see how the father and brothers work fife conflicts and influences what Billy can and cannot do. Because the strike money around the house is very tight and the money provided to Billy for his boxing lessons was worked hard for he must do as the father says. When Jackie finds out that Billy has been spending the money on ballet he is very angry and assaults Billy. This is an indirect affect of the strike which is occurring at the time. This is also the representation of how a national issue affects the micro level as the governments decisions to not conform to the unions demands keeps the family form making the money they need.

The Disadvantages of Socialized Medicine essays

The Disadvantages of Socialized Medicine essays The topic of this paper is how socialized healthcare has disadvantages. Socialized healthcare is in the news today and is proposed by some leaders in both parties of Congress as the answer to insurance and health crises that are becoming apparent in the democratic system in the United States. Unemployment and inflation have made it impossible for many to afford private insurance and it is increasingly becoming the norm for businesses from large corporations to small businesses to not offer their employees health insurance. Today a bill to fund health insurance for underprivileged children is being debated in both houses and the President of the United States has threatened to veto it if it passes. Many people are for some sort of socialized healthcare today, but though the trend appears to be going that direction, there are factors that might be detrimental which must be considered before socialized healthcare becomes the norm. One must conclude that should socialized healthcare beco me part of the governmental system, there would be a few disadvantages that might outweigh its benefits. Great Britain is one nation which has had a National Health Service (NHS) since 1948. This initial experiment was more costly that predicted, the system was overloaded so that one in eight patients waited for over a year for treatment (Carvel, 2007, 2), the drugs administered were limited or unavailable for those who needed them, and the facilities were not up to par (Kelland, 2006, 1). Problems continue to plague the British health system, with government officials skimming funds and research lagging. One of the United States nearest neighbors, Canada, has enjoyed the Canada Health Act since 1984, when it established a publicly-financed, single-payer system and outlawed private health insurance. Although most Canadians approve of their public health system, there are problems such as long waits for specialized surgeries (Duff-Brown 1). Another...

Battle of Biography of Charles Martel, Frankish Ruler

Battle of Biography of Charles Martel, Frankish Ruler Charles Martel (August 23, 686 CE–October 22, 741 CE) was the leader of the Frankish army and, effectively, the ruler of the Frankish kingdom, or Francia (present-day Germany and France). He is known for winning the Battle of Tours in 732 CE and turning back the Muslim invasions of Europe. He is the grandfather of Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor. Fast Facts: Charles Martel Known For:  Ruler of the Frankish kingdom, known for winning the Battle of Tours and turning back the Muslim invasions of EuropeAlso Known As: Carolus Martellus, Karl Martell,  Martel (or the Hammer)Born:  August 23, 686 CEParents: Pippin the Middle and AlpaidaDied:  October 22, 741 CESpouse(s): Rotrude of Treves, Swanhild; mistress, RuodhaidChildren: Hiltrud, Carloman, Landrade, Auda, Pippin the Younger, Grifo, Bernard, Hieronymus, Remigius, and Ian Early Life Charles Martel (August 23, 686–October 22, 741) was the son of Pippin the Middle and his second wife, Alpaida. Pippin was the mayor of the palace to the King of the Franks and essentially ruled Francia (France and Germany today) in his place. Shortly before Pippins death in 714, his first wife, Plectrude, convinced him to disinherit his other children in favor of his 8-year-old grandson Theudoald. This move angered the Frankish nobility and, following Pippins death, Plectrude tried to prevent Charles from becoming a rallying point for their discontent and imprisoned the 28-year-old in Cologne. Rise to Power and Reign By the end of 715, Charles had escaped from captivity and found support among the Austrasians who comprised one of the Frankish kingdoms. Over the next three years, Charles conducted a civil war against King Chilperic and the Mayor of the Palace of Neustria, Ragenfrid. Charles suffered a setback at Cologne (716) before winning key victories at Ambleve (716) and Vincy (717).   After taking time to secure his borders, Charles won a decisive victory at Soissons over Chilperic and the Duke of Aquitaine, Odo the Great, in 718. Triumphant, Charles was able to gain recognition for his titles as mayor of the palace and duke and prince of the Franks. Over the next five years, he consolidated power as well as conquered Bavaria and Alemmania before defeating the Saxons. With the Frankish lands secured, Charles next began to prepare for an anticipated attack from the Muslim Umayyads to the south. Family Charles married Rotrude of Treves with whom he had five children before her death in 724. These were Hiltrud, Carloman, Landrade, Auda, and Pippin the Younger. Following Rotrudes death, Charles married Swanhild, with whom he had a son Grifo. In addition to his two wives, Charles had an ongoing affair with his mistress Ruodhaid. Their relationship produced four children, Bernard, Hieronymus, Remigius, and Ian. Facing the Umayyads In 721, the Muslim Umayyads first came north and were defeated by Odo at the Battle of Toulouse. Having assessed the situation in Iberia and the Umayyad attack on Aquitaine, Charles came to believe that a professional army, rather than raw conscripts, was needed to defend the realm from invasion. To raise the money necessary to build and train an army that could withstand the Muslim horsemen, Charles began seizing Church lands, earning the ire of the religious community. In 732, the Umayyads moved north again, led by Emir Abdul Rahman Al Ghafiqi. Commanding approximately 80,000 men, he plundered Aquitaine. As Abdul Rahman sacked Aquitaine, Odo fled north to seek aid from Charles. This was granted in exchange for Odo recognizing Charles as his overlord. Mobilizing his army, Charles moved to intercept the Umayyads. Battle of Tours In order to avoid detection and allow Charles to select the battlefield, the approximately 30,000 Frankish troops moved over secondary roads toward the town of Tours. For the battle, Charles selected a high, wooded plain which would force the Umayyad cavalry to charge uphill. Forming a large square, his men surprised Abdul Rahman, forcing the Umayyad emir to pause for a week to consider his options. On the seventh day, after gathering all of his forces, Abdul Rahman attacked with his Berber and Arab cavalry. In one of the few instances where medieval infantry stood up to cavalry, Charles troops defeated repeated Umayyad attacks. As the battle raged, the Umayyads finally broke through the Frankish lines and attempted to kill Charles. He was promptly surrounded by his personal guard, who repulsed the attack. As this was occurring, scouts that Charles had sent out earlier were infiltrating the Umayyad camp and freeing prisoners. Victory Believing that the plunder of the campaign was being stolen, a large part of the Umayyad army broke off the battle and raced to protect their camp. While attempting to stop the apparent retreat, Abdul Rahman was surrounded and killed by Frankish troops. Briefly pursued by the Franks, the Umayyad withdrawal turned into a full retreat. Charles reformed his troops expecting another attack, but to his surprise, it never came as the Umayyads continued their retreat all the way to Iberia. Charles victory at the Battle of Tours was later credited for saving Western Europe from the Muslim invasions and was a turning point in European history. Expanding the Empire After spending the next three years securing his eastern borders in Bavaria and Alemannia, Charles moved south to fend off an Umayyad naval invasion in Provence. In 736, he led his forces in reclaiming Montfrin, Avignon, Arles, and Aix-en-Provence.  These campaigns marked the first time he integrated heavy cavalry with stirrups into his formations.   Though he won a string of victories, Charles elected not to attack Narbonne due to the strength of its defenses and the casualties that would be incurred during any assault.  As the campaigning concluded, King  Theuderic IV died. Though he had the power to appoint a new King of the Franks, Charles did not do so and left the throne vacant rather than claim it for himself. From 737 until his death in 741, Charles focused on the administration of his realm and expanding his influence. This included subduing Burgundy in 739. These years also saw Charles lay the groundwork for his heirs succession following his death. Death Charles Martel died on October 22, 741. His lands were divided between his sons Carloman and Pippin III. The latter would father the next great Carolingian leader, Charlemagne. Charles remains were interred at the Basilica of St. Denis near Paris. Legacy Charles Martel reunited and ruled the entire Frankish realm. His victory at Tours is credited with turning back the Muslim invasion of Europe, a major turning point in European history. Martel was the grandfather of Charlemagne, who became the first Roman Emperor since the fall of the Roman Empire. Sources Fouracre,  Paul. The Age of Charles Martel. Routledge, 2000.Johnson, Diana M. Pepins Bastard: The Story of Charles Martel. Superior Book Publishing Co., 1999Mckitterick, Rosamond. Charlemagne: The Formation of a European Identity. Cambridge University Press, 2008.

Organisation culture and change management Assignment

Organisation culture and change management - Assignment Example In the previous decade, the field of knowledge management was new and had generated anxiety and excitement and also achieved increased recognition for the potential that it had to influence the freshly recognised asset called knowledge and in the process bootstrapped the effectiveness of organisations. During the same decade, the conception emerged that it was possible for organisations to learn and create competencies from that learning that would eventually lead to agility and competitive advantage (Bennet & Bennet, 2004). The fact is that knowledge management is quite a new field, so still a significant amount of learning in the way of trial and error is happening. Nevertheless, knowledge management has been victorious in developing quite an important number of processes that are successful and established its value to quite a number of firms as they still keep putting efforts to respond and understand the prospects and threats that arise from a tumultuous environment. A few insta nces of successful knowledge management processes are knowledge sharing, knowledge acquisition and knowledge audit. While organisational and individual learning have been given recognition as an essential factor for substantial period of time in an environment that is always changing, the idea of organisational learning in comparison to knowledge management is relatively new. This study would mainly focus on their relationship. After providing useful definitions for few of the concepts such as knowledge, organisational learning and knowledge management, the discussion will also involve the importance of organisational learning & knowledge management for being the key factors for achieving organisational competitive advantage and superior performance (Bennet & Bennet, 2004). Data, Information & Knowledge To gain a proper understanding about the relationship of knowledge management and organisational learning, at the outset, an explanation of knowledge can be provided. Knowledge can b e best explained as the ability to take necessary and effective action, with the identification that ability includes both actual and potential capability. Knowledge can be in the mind of a person and/or implementing it in the correct way that is taken in a desired situation. It signifies that an action is of use when it provides the desired and anticipated results. Most of the thoughts that are considered normally to form knowledge (Information, Predictability, Facts, Experience, Concepts, Truths, Theories, Intuition, Judgement and Insight) help in adding to form the ability and understanding that are essential to take necessary action, they all can possess knowledge. Organisations and teams might possess knowledge in collective form (both actual and potential) and thus, be able to take actions that any individual cannot take. While knowledge lays emphasis on making sense and understanding (the â€Å"how and why†), information is about being aware of something (the â€Å"wh at and who†

The State of Sovereign Wealth Funds Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The State of Sovereign Wealth Funds - Essay Example The commonly utilised value for price volatility is the percentage, which serves to eliminate the problems presented by changing currency values, when presenting volatility of commodities available globally. In most circumstances of international commodity price volatility, economists normally utilise a common currency, like the dollar to represent volatility. International businesses, however, present the calculation of volatility in terms of percentage of a specified figure. Volatility normally revolves around measurement of dispersion observed in numerous securities or market index. The calculation of volatility enables economists to predict the amount of uncertainty existing for given commodities. The uncertainties are normally presented by notable changes observed in the commodity prices. These changes are utilised in making predictions concerning stability of stocks and expected changes, based on previous observations. Volatility represents commodity risk and high volatility in dicates high investment risk in such stocks. The risk is normally presented by anticipated change, with stocks having high volatility being marked as expected to have dramatic price adjustments over a short duration. Price fluctuations remain a fundamental constituent of calculated volatility values established by economist. Stable commodities customarily experience minimal fluctuations; hence lower volatility for such commodities. Stability in commodity prices does not occur often within the free market economies as demand and supply change continuously. Expanding boundaries of national economies dissolving into the global economy have contributed to increased difficulty in management of commodity price volatility. Technological advancements have contributed significantly towards a global shift in the living standards, consequently resulting in increased price volatility. Within the global economy, price control continues to become increasingly difficult because of the existing pol icy discrepancies among different countries. The concept of free market has continued to create an unprecedented, uncontrolled flux in pricing within the global market. Increases in commodity demand against the available supply continue to have a negative impact on the prices, causing increased price volatility. Investors, within the business world, commonly rely on volatility when making numerous investment decisions. Through volatility the individuals can make estimations of expected returns on investments, based on security volatility. Management of volatility remains a fundamental element for investors seeking success in the constantly changing commodity prices in the free market. Though volatility could be utilised in making future predictions, numerous changes could be initiated in the management process of volatility, consequently avoiding the adverse effects created by high volatility. The business decisions made following estimations from volatility consist of numerous assu mptions. One major assumption in estimating volatility remains the unchanging business environment, enabling constant business conditions. Though calculations remain accurate, as they are based on current market prices, the prevailing business conditions resulting to the result cannot remain fixed. Governments, for example, might introduce regulations and policies seeking to protect investors from adverse effects of volatility. Changes in the business

Christianity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Christianity - Essay Example Little is known about the origin of the historical Jesus. According to the Biblical accounts, Jesus is born by Mary in a stable during the Jew’s celebration of the Feast of the Light. The accounts also show that he is born during the time of a social and political turmoil in the Jewish nation because of the Roman invasion. The people are expecting a Messiah which will overthrow the abusive leader and who will save them from their destitute condition. However, Jesus Christ, the Messiah of the Christians is born in a manger which has also been predicted in the Bible’s Old Testament. Jesus is the single most important figure in Christianity. However, the deity of Christ is always often debated in the Christian world. While some sects believe that Jesus is the Son in the godhead, others believe that He is an incarnation of the Father himself, while still others believe that he is just human but not god. In Islam, Jesus is believed to be the greatest prophet of Mohammad. During Jesus’ time, He is opposed by the Jews because of their claim that He is destroying the law given to Moses by God himself. However, Jesus explained to them that he is not sent in the world to destroy the law but to fulfill it. It should be noted that through enough Jesus preaches the same law in the Ten Commandments. The first four laws, He summarized as loving God with all thy heart, soul, and mind while the last six He summarized as loving other people as one’s self. This is at the heart of Jesus message—for a man to have a personal relationship with his God and a harm onious relationship with his fellowmen.

Is graffiti a valid art form Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Is graffiti a valid art form - Essay Example Scholars in this field argue that graffiti could be accepted as an art if it is put in the following forms. These forms include subway art, spray-can art and graffiti art. The aspect of unconventional presentation contributes to the idea of graffiti being recognised as an art because the above forms constitute properties that bring out the visual content of the imagination. For an individual to prove this, he or she has to consider a historical graffiti material to illustrate to his or her audience that graffiti is truly an art. As an art, graffiti as seen from the ancient were uncovered monuments from Egypt. In addition, it is an italic word that means drawing, scribbling and markings, thus an indication that it existed in the ancient times where people practiced wall writing. The ancient graffiti was transferred to the current graffiti making it to be referred to as â€Å"New York Style† due to its invention in New York (Chalfant and Prigoff 38). There are a number of reasons why graffiti’s art value is different from oil on canvas painting. The first reason is the fame that a graffitist gets from his or her artistic talent. It is easy for a graffitist to get be recognized because of his or her artistic talent more than an artist who considers oil on canvas painting (Spitz 27). Secondly, graffiti provides room for a person to express him or herself to the world more than the oil on canvas painting. Writing as an art enables a graffitist to communicate his or her identity and ideas to the general public. It is, therefore, important for graffitist to note that judgments for their imagination can only be made by the public basing on their artistic skills which must be translated creatively. Lastly, graffiti allows artists to work together unlike the oil on canvas painting that requires one artist to complete the assigned task. Team building for graffitist

Corporations are a threat to environment Research Paper

Corporations are a threat to environment - Research Paper Example This research defines environmental pollution as an unfavorable variation of our surrounding through direct or indirect influence, causing changes in radiation levels, energy patterns, physical and chemical composition of our environment. Environmental pollution can occur naturally or in can be artificial (Antonescu & Mateescu, 2001). Due to this fact it can be said that the environmental pollution caused by corporations in U.S is artificial. Air, water and soil pollution caused by coporations can have health implications to the population living around the industries. Deaths and billions of dollars are lost in medical expenses caused by air pollution (Milton & Rahman, 1999). Industries are known to emit gases such as CFCs and metal ions such as Lead, nickel, copper and iron. These substances can find their way to livestock and contaminate the meat that humans are going to consume (Sabir et al, 2003). The goal of this research is to determine the implication of the pollutants that ar e emitted by corporations. It will also try to aim at investigating whether there are enough measure set in a corporation to recycle their waste as a ration to control pollution. This research aims to answers the following research question: If the hypothesis will be accepted, it will be prudent for the policy makers to formulate policies that will control environmental pollutions caused by these corporations. These will make the morbidity or mortality rates caused by pollution caused by corporation to decrease adversely.

Assignment 6 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

Assignment 6 - Essay Example The all serve purpose of advertising with difference in approaches and content of the messages. This is the initial stage where consumer is made aware of the product and forms a vague idea of the product/service. The marketer needs to ascertain the level of awareness the customer has and act fit towards clearer understanding of the product/service (P.J., 2010). Explanation and use of sample displays at this point will drive the point home increasing the chances of making a sell. At this point, the consumer is well aware of the product or service but probably misses the actual benefits or offers the product or service will accord him. By learning what the target market have an understanding and the depth of the knowledge, the best foot forward here is increasing the spread of the detailed knowledge of the product/ service. A stage is reached when the customer has started relating with the product and develops special connections to it. This is the liking stage and the marketer is to understand the feeling of the consumer about his product /services. When the marketers get a hint of the feeling, they take an appropriate action towards putting campaigns or communication into design. In cases where the market has different other products, the market will seek to unearth the preference of the customer. Getting a glimpse of the priority listing the customer has, the marketer tries a concerted effort to improve preference and bringing it up the priority list. At this stage, the marketer has come along way to give up. The consumer should be given the strongest reason possible to strengthen his belief in the product/ service being offered. The marketer at this point needs to choose the right words that will strongly recommend the product to the consumer to drive conviction of the good or service. The above stages make no sense if it does not culminate at the purchase level. This stage succeeds the conviction stage where

Corporations are a threat to environment Research Paper

Corporations are a threat to environment - Research Paper Example This research defines environmental pollution as an unfavorable variation of our surrounding through direct or indirect influence, causing changes in radiation levels, energy patterns, physical and chemical composition of our environment. Environmental pollution can occur naturally or in can be artificial (Antonescu & Mateescu, 2001). Due to this fact it can be said that the environmental pollution caused by corporations in U.S is artificial. Air, water and soil pollution caused by coporations can have health implications to the population living around the industries. Deaths and billions of dollars are lost in medical expenses caused by air pollution (Milton & Rahman, 1999). Industries are known to emit gases such as CFCs and metal ions such as Lead, nickel, copper and iron. These substances can find their way to livestock and contaminate the meat that humans are going to consume (Sabir et al, 2003). The goal of this research is to determine the implication of the pollutants that ar e emitted by corporations. It will also try to aim at investigating whether there are enough measure set in a corporation to recycle their waste as a ration to control pollution. This research aims to answers the following research question: If the hypothesis will be accepted, it will be prudent for the policy makers to formulate policies that will control environmental pollutions caused by these corporations. These will make the morbidity or mortality rates caused by pollution caused by corporation to decrease adversely.

The role of using first language (L1) and translation in young Essay - 2

The role of using first language (L1) and translation in young learners’ classes - Essay Example ys: firstly, by means of a small-scale survey of EFL teachers, using a questionnaire; secondly, through on-line interviews with three former teachers; and, finally, by means of classroom observations in three classes. The data was analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. The teachers expressed a range of views, reflecting the diverse views in the research literature. However, most of the participants responding to the questionnaire indicated that they felt that English should be the main language of the classroom. At the same time, these participants and all others (the former teachers and the teachers in the classes observed) acknowledged that occasional use of Arabic (or, where relevant, other first languages), for particular purposes was appropriate. The purposes they cited were: explaining particular vocabulary items or phrases; clarifying classroom procedures (e.g. for particular tasks or activities); giving instructions and making sure that the instructions wer e understood; and, maintaining classroom discipline. These views appear to be guiding classroom practice in the three classes that I observed. The teachers were using the students’ first languages for these purposes. In my concluding chapter, I recommend that, in initial teacher education in Oman, more attention should be given to these communicative functions of translation and first language use, while emphasising the importance of using as much English as possible in EFL teaching in the early years. The most appropriate way to teach English as a Second Language (ESL) or English as a Foreign Language (EFL) is a source of primary scholarly debate. Recently, more attention has been given to the use of translation and the native language (L1) in communicative English Language Teaching (ELT). Most of the theories inform us that young childrens language development is influenced by many factors, including using their first language to explain concepts and express abstract reasoning.

Ethical Pursuations Essay Example for Free

Ethical Pursuations Essay Each of the three different theoretical approaches proposed for public relation ethics has admirers and detractors as well. All the three theories require practical ways of incorporating them into public relation campaign, using the suggested pyramids (Barney Black 1994:233-244). Virtue ethics involves fostering a strong internal moral compass to guide anyone in choosing the right action. It requires one to first develop ethical judgment by stimulating the moral imagination in order to recognize ethical issues. This can only be achieved in a campaign through ethics brainstorming sessions or ethical reflection time, and this is where individuals considered ethical implications and report back to the team or through discussion with an independent ethics consultant, who could then highlight potential ethical issues in the upcoming campaign and stimulate debate on appropriate approaches. This approach allows other virtue tests that accord with their values and enables them to set relevant virtue objectives to be revisited and tested at the end of the campaign. Virtue ethics becomes a formative step in public relations process, rather than a reactive process once a problem arise. However, it is flexible, by the fact that in the middle segment pyramid, each of the facts used can be assessed in the campaign using a virtue approach tactics. Virtue ethics clearly has benefits for practitioners who are seeking ethical guidance but many times it is be inadequate alone. For example tests using external virtue referents like a ‘significant other’, are ‘at odds with the idea of developing virtues by purchasing the internal goals of a practice’ (Baker Martinson 2001: 148-275) Deontology involves following a prescribed set of duties or obligations for example, religious rules such as ‘Thou shall not lie’, and one of its common deontological positions in public relations is advocacy, and this is the belief that provides practitioners specific behaviors that are ethical against an agreed standard like a professional ethics code at the same time, they can easily promote clients self-interests above all other interests when compared to virtue ethics and consequatialisim; in addition deontological approaches are also useful in the campaigns communication phase and this enables them to assess ethics of messages and communication outputs when compared to virtue ethics, as well as consequantialism. Their approaches are useful because they clarify the limits of reasonable behavior by providing absolute prohibitions, and directives for specific acts, however at times, although occasional their inflexibility can be problematic (Baker 1997: pp. 197-210). Lastly but not least, consequantialism uses the approach of judging actions by their customers. One of the well-known techniques of consequentialism is ulitarianism; where an assessment is made of who has been affected, and determines in what ways, and consequently the right action that is supposed to be taken which creates maximum total benefit. Their main method of determining the outcome involves drawing a flow chart or a mind map which is cumbersome. Their only closest related test is the benefit or harm assessment, in which calculation is made about whether the benefits to stakeholders outweigh the harm (Baker 2002: 191-205). The approach is clearly a very crucial component of public relations, but on its own at many times it obscures the means used to obtain a desired outcome, for instance, a pure consequantialist can endorse a lie if it ultimately resulted in more happiness or a more wide-spread benefit than truth-telling (Barney Black 1994:244-248). Conclusion The two approaches; virtues ethics and consequentialism to public relations have benefits but they have serious limitations. One can only manage these limitations by using deontological approaches, because it has a high persuasive power with respect to public relation practitioners.

The Raising Of Children :: essays research papers

The raising of the children in Wuthering Heights seemed to be mostly done by the nannies. In fact, the story is mainly told from the perspective of Nelly Dean, the housekeeper of Thrushcross Grange and Wuthering Heights. Upper-class parents delegated the entire care of their children to a nurse or a "nanny". The nanny and the children occupied a separate wing or floor of the house. Ideally, the wing or floor had a day nursery, one or more night nurseries for children of different ages, bedrooms for older children and their governess, and a schoolroom or older children's sitting room. The fully staffed nursery had additional nurserymaids, a schoolroom maid, a laundress, and sometimes a cook. The reason children were separated from adults was that they were to be sheltered from adult life and given a structured routine and also to hvae their characters trained. The adults were freed for their own pleasures and responsibilities, and for the London season and foreign travel which were expected parts of aristocratic life. The full-fledged nanny was a professional and she had full charge of the children and their upbringing. Mothers recognized their own deficiencies and deferred to the nanny's training and experience. Children spent mostly all of their time with the nanny. Her bed was in the night nursery where they slept. The parents paid little attention to the everyday happenings as in seen in Wuthering Heights. Catherine and Francis depended on Nelly's care of the children all throughout Wuthering Heights. When the kids were about eight, their lessons began to occupy most of their time. Boys went to boarding school and girls became primarily responsible to the governess. Despite a nanny's absolute authority, children were still called "miss" or "master" when

One Deadly Psychotic Break Essay -- Literary Analysis

An online dictionary defines mental illness as â€Å"any of various disorders in which a person's thoughts, emotions, or behavior are so abnormal as to cause suffering to himself†¦or other people;† a second definition is â€Å"any of various psychiatric disorders or diseases, usually characterized by impairment of thought, mood, or behavior† (Thefreedictionary.com). In Edgar Allan Poe’s short story â€Å"Ligeia,† the narrator perfectly satisfies both of the above definitions. In Poe’s story, the nameless narrator’s beautiful wife Ligeia lives with him a short time before she dies. After her death, the narrator re-marries to Rowena, who eventually dies as well. At the conclusion of the story, his first, beloved wife returns to him through the body of Rowena. In reality, however, Poe’s story is far different from what it at first seems. The narrator, under the influence of opium, creates Ligeia in his mind and, when she  "dies,† he kills Rowena himself to bring his first wife back. In the article â€Å"Poe’s Ethereal Ligeia,† Jack and June Davis describe â€Å"Ligeia† as the faulty account of an insane narrator who â€Å"knows Ligeia only through his opium hallucinations but who wants to present her as a real and credible person† (171). The narrator uses Ligeia to chase the elusive secret to eternal life. When she dies, instead of forgoing his search, the narrator procures Rowena in order to present Ligeia with a dead body to return through; thus, he commits murder to carry out his insane plot. Because the narrator of Poe’s story fabricates the existence of his first wife, uses her to pursue eternal life, and kills his second bride to bring Ligeia back, he can be classified as mentally deranged. Ligeia’s unreality is strong evidence for the instability... ...im. What the deranged narrator once perceived as a victory over death is, in reality, nothing more than a drug-induced psychotic break. Works Cited Basler, Roy. "The Interpretation of "Ligeia"." College English. 5.7 (1944): 363-372. Web. 7 Apr. 2012. Basler, Roy, and James Schroeter. "Poe's "Ligeia"." PMLA. 77.5 (1962): 675. Web. 9 Apr. 2012. Davis, Jack L., and June H. Davis. "Poe's Ethereal Ligeia." Bulletin of the Rocky Mountain Modern Language Association. 24.4 (1970): 170-176. Web. 9 Apr. 2012. Espejo, Roman. Mental Illness. Farmington Hills, MI: Greenhaven Press, 2012. Print. "Mental Illness - Definition." The free dictionary by farlex. Farlex, Inc., 2011. Web. 13 Apr 2012. . Rabkin, Leslie Y. Psychopathology and Literature. San Francisco, CA: Chandler Publishing Company, 1966. Print.

Prestige Telephone Company Essay

1.Identify the costs that are relevant to the analysis to discontinue Prestige Data Services: Relevant costs in the analysis by Prestige Telephone Company decision to discontinue Prestige Data Services include: fixed costs which must be absorbed by the parent company (Prestige Telephone) upon shutdown; outstanding Prestige Data Services debts; costs of retraining retained employees; costs associated with outsourcing data services previously provided by Prestige Data Services; opportunity cost of using space rented to Prestige Data Services; marketing costs attributed to acquiring additional Prestige Data Services customers; costs of increasing promotional activities of Prestige Data Services. In addition, Prestige Telephone Company should consider the qualitative cost of reduced employee morale which may result upon shutdown of Prestige Data Services. Maintenance costs 2.Justify why each of the costs in item 1 is relevant: The costs listed above are all relevant because they each vary with the shutdown decision. ââ€"  Fixed costs which must be absorbed by the parent company (Prestige Telephone) upon shutdown: Payroll, billing, collections, and other corporate services were provided by Prestige Telephone in return for an amount from Data Services based on wages and salaries. These fixed costs allocated to Prestige Data Services must now be accounted for by the parent company. ââ€"  Costs of retraining employees: If employees are retained by Prestige Telephone, wages and salaries that were previously incurred by the Data Services line will hit Prestige Telephone’s budget. Also, new skills will be required of employees retained by the company as well as accompanying training expenses. ââ€"  Costs associated with outsourcing data services previously provided by Prestige Data Services: Prestige Telephone will still require the services Prestige Data Services supply and thus will need to outsource them. Since Prestige Telephone was using a price cap based on estimated data usage in 1999, they were effectively getting discounted data service rates from the subsidiary. If Data Services is shut down, the company might incur much higher service expenses. ââ€"  The maintenance cost is relevant because if Data Services is  shut down the company will no longer incur this costs, thus it needs to be considered as a cost the parent company can eliminate. ââ€"  Opportunity cost of using space rented to Prestige Data Services: If Prestige Telephone decides to shut down the Data Services Company, the parent company will lose the $8000 monthly rental fee paid by the current subsidiary. Additionally, Prestige Telephone must consider the opportunity cost of renting the space to another company or service that may provide them with more income. ââ€"  If Prestige Data Services is shut down, marketing costs attributed to acquiring additional Prestige Data Services customers and promotional activities will no longer be necessary. ââ€"  Termination of Prestige Data Services employees as a result of shut down may reduce the morale of any retained employees or employees of the parents company. Prestige might experience decreased productivity or increased turnover as a result. 3.Identify the costs that are NOT relevant to the analysis to discontinue Prestige Data Services: Costs not relevant to the decision are sunk costs such as the costs of training Prestige Data Service employees, investments in the IT infrastructure, and any owned Prestige Data Services Equipment. In addition, the fixed portion of the electricity costs is not relevant. Depreciation costs are also not relevant. The leases for computer equipment are non-cancelable and therefore may be considered sunk costs because Data Services is expected to cover the costs associated with the leases prior to being shutdown. However if Prestige Data Services is unable to pay off the leases, these costs will become relevant because the parent company, Prestige Telephone would be responsible for debts owed. 4.Justify why each of the costs in item 3 is NOT relevant Fixed cost: Costs of equipment and fixtures are incurred whether or not Prestige Data Service continues to operate. Even if the subsidiary company is shut down, these fixed costs must still be taken into consideration. Some costs, such as electricity, whether used or not, will be charged for a certain basic amount every month and therefore should not be considered relevant. Depreciation is not relevant because cost of equipment is a sunk cost. There is no significant salvage value for the equipment. 5.Identify the revenues that are relevant to the analysis to discontinue Prestige Data Services: Revenues relevant to the analysis to discontinue the operation are commercial sales revenue which includes computer use and other. 6.Justify why the revenues in item 5 are relevant: The revenues in item 5 differ across alternatives. In other words, these revenues are directly tied to Prestige Data Services. If the production capacity of Prestige Data Services decreases to zero, all the revenue resulting from these operations will also decrease to $0, which decreases the subsidiary’s contribution to its parent company. 7.Identify the revenues that are NOT relevant to the analysis to discontinue Prestige Data Services. The revenue of Prestige Telephone and the revenue from intercompany Sales are not relevant to the decision. 8.Justify why the revenues in item 7 are NOT relevant. As we explained in item 6, all revenues from Prestige Data Services will change depending on the decision. As the production capacity is varied, all the revenues will vary. These changes show the expected overall effect on net income. Revenue at Prestige Telephone will not vary based on the decision to shut down Prestige Data Services because Prestige Telephone’s revenue is not tied to the operations of the subsidiary. From the perspective of the Parent Company, Intercompany Sales are a revenue stream for the subsidiary, but an equal cost to the Parent, thus it doesn’t affect the balance sheet of the parent company. 9.Is Prestige Data Services really a problem to the parent company. Justify your answer. Prestige Data Service is not a problem to the parent company. This is primarily because: —Prestige Telephone will need to absorb Prestige Data’s relevant fixed costs. —Prestige Telephone will have to pay higher rates for services previously provided by Prestige Data Services. Regardless of possible sunk costs such as equipment leases ($95,000), Prestige Data Service positively contributes to the parent company. Additionally, if Prestige Data Services were to charge Prestige Telephone the same rates ($800 per service hour) it charges for commercial services, the company would not be operating  at a loss. If these commercial rates are considered competitive then the subsidiary is saving its parent money. Furthermore, there are several strategies that can be implemented to increase the business value of Prestige Data Services, such as reducing computer usage. 10.Prepare monthly income statements for January, February, and March which support your answer to item 9.

Intercommunication

If was to buy the list I would sale contact method that I would use would be contacting them in person, although it would be time consuming and expensive, I would want them to see me and know that I am serious about business. I would be able to directly answer any questions that they might have and it is always good to put a face to someone wanting to do business. Cold calling assumes sales people will be successful If they can reach the right person In an organization. I do not think that cold calling should be used but It Is the only way that some can get through.Cold calling focuses on getting past the middle people. A person who calls Like this tries to let the buyer know why they should make a purchase decision right now. They can create a negative experience. I know that I do not Like when people call me and push me to buy something. Many people are so often hit with advertising messages from TV, newspapers, magazines and it is hard to get their attention. Direct mall can help build relationships between you and whomever you are trying to reach.It is more personal because you can say what you want and have time to put your thoughts together and express whatever it is you need to and is also cost efficient. Most consumers are receptive to direct mail. Yes, I consider sending these contacts unsolicited emails spam. Most of us get spam every day, ranging from a little to a lot, but if you have an e-mail account it is always there. It is frustrating when you open your business email and before you can respond to your customers or email your suppliers, you have spam. I feel that it is just a way for people to try to get you to buy into something, Spam is of no importance to me.

Home Appliance Case Study

Q1. What are the Industry’s Dominant Economic Traits? Industry’s Dominant Economic Traits| Features| Questions to answer | Market Size & Growth Rate| U. S is the largest producer of Home appliances in the world. U. S Home appliances industry is in the phase of Maturity. There are four major firms in Home appliances industry in United States. in 2002 there are 74. 5 million units. Dollar volume had been growing at an annual average rate of 1. 9 percent since. Scope of Competitive Rivalry| As major  home appliance  industry became increasingly global it became difficult for global and domestic major  home appliance  companies to survive independently in the competitive environment. | Number Of Rivals| Major rivals who shared 99% of the  market  share were Whirlpool,  General Electric, and Maytag, AB Electrolux. Others who shared 1% of the  market  share were Bosch-Siemens, Haier, Emerson Electric, Sub-zero, Viking and Wolf. Buyer Needs & Requirements| Ma ny consumers were demanding appliances that are attractive, convenient and easy to clean for that consumers are willing to pay top prices for top of the fine appliances that enhances their decor's and save precious time. The manufactures have responded to the consumer demands, by manufacture smart appliances with sophisticated electronic controls and self diagnostic features. | Pace of Technological Change| New technologies and designed were being introduced into major home appliances.Due to governmental pressure, appliance manufactures were introducing energy efficient versions of Home appliances| Degree of Product Differentiation| In US major  home appliances  industry firms differentiated themselves on the basis of quality and cost. | Product Innovation| As a result of high competition and rivalry companies were always in search of innovation. Huge amounts were being spent on R;D in order to replace current technologies with more efficient one. For example use of microwave en ergy in  clothes dryers  so that clothes could be dried faster, at low temperature.This technology was not marketed as it needed further improvement. Another example of innovation is that silent, vibration-free refrigerator instead of the noisy, energy-consuming compressors. The cooling apparatus consisted of wheel containing gadolinium powder moving through a high powdered, rare earth magnet. | Economies of Scale| All the major  home appliance  manufacturers were trying to gain economies of scale by renovating and building production facilities in order to  improve quality  and reduce material costs. | Q2. What kinds of competitive Force are industry members facing? Please make sure you follow my slides for Porter’s analysis. You have to explain the reasons for your evaluation. Threat of New Entrants/ Entry Barriers| Factors|   | HUFA| MUFA| Neutral| MFA| HFA|   | Comment| Economies of scale| Small| | | | 4| | Large| 99% of market shares capture by big four f irms. | Capital require red| Low| | | | | 5| High| The high amount of capital required for the new entrance in this industry | Access to distribution channels| Ample| | 2| | | | Restricted| There are three mass distribution channel. Which distribute appliances to mass. Differentiation| Low |   | 2|   |   |   | High| There is no such differentiation in products features. Focusing on price reduction that drove the surviving firms to increased efficiency and a strong concern for customer satisfaction | Brand Loyalty| Low |   |   |   |   | 5| High| A significant fraction of the consumers of high-end appliances were very knowledgeable about the brands and were also particular about the brands they used. | Experience Curve| Insignificant|   |   |   | 4|   | Significant| They have more than 50 years of experience in appliance industry that was the main source of their success. Govt. Action| | | | | 4| | | Govt has put strong regulations on Industry to produce energy saving products. | Exit Barriers| Factors|   | HUA| MUA| Neutral| MA| HA|   | Comments| Specialized Assets| High| 1  | |   |   | | Low| They have captured a huge market through product development, learning experience and R;D. | Fixed Cost of Exit| High|   | 2|   |   |   | Low| They have spent a huge amount on machinery,labour trainings,R;D| Strategic interrelationship| High|   | 2|   |   |   | Low| Collaboration and commitment with their suppliers and dealers. | Competitive Rivalry|Factors|   | HUFA| MUFA| Neutral| MFA| HFA|   | Comment| Composition of Competitors| Equal Size |   |   |   |   | 5| Unequal Size| All have same resources and same product line so they can compete easily with each other. | Mkt. Growth rate| Slow|   | |   |   |    5| High| Because they have maximum market share and have grap the customers loyalty. | Scope of competition| Global|    1| |   |   | | Domestic| Because of competition with International marke ts. | Capacity Increase| Large|    1|   |   |   | | Small| When they will produce same products as like their competitors so it will exceed the requirements and have to sellin lesser price. Degree of differentiation| Commodity|   |    3| |   |   | High| No such product differentiation among rivals| Threat Of Substitute Product | Factors|   | HUFA| MUFA| N| MFA| HFA|   | Comment| Threat of Obsolescence of Industry’s product| Hi|   |   |   | |    5| Low| Product durability and reliability and no such substitute. | Aggressiveness of substitute products in promotion| Hi|    |   |   | |    5| Low| There is no threat facing from substitute product| Switching Cost| Low | |   |   |   |   5| High| No substitute| | Power Of Buyer|Factors|   | HUFA| MUFA| N| MFA| HFA|   | Comment| Number of Important buyers| Few|   | |   |   4|   | Many| Brand loyalty and innovative products preference. | Product supplied| Commodity|   |   2| à ‚  | |   | Specialty| Similarities in products so they can easily switch to other if they increase the cost | Switching cost| Low| 1|   |   |   |   | High| Buyers can easily switch to other products if low cost. | Profit earned by buyer| Low|   |   2|   | |   | High| Company is getting less profit and providing more discount to customers| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |Overall Industry attractiveness| | | | | Factors| Unfav| Neutral| Fav| | | | | Entry Barriers|   |   | *| | | | | | Exit Barriers| *|   |   | | | | | | Rivalry among existing firms| *  | |   | | | | | | Power of buyer| | *  |   | | | | | | Threat of substitutes|   |   | *| | | | | | Q3. Identify forces likely to exert greatest influence over next 1-3 Years? (Please note the Drivers of change are few usually not more than 4 factors). Your Drivers of change must point out. i. Are driving forces acting to cause demand for product to increase or decrease?The driving forces increase th e market demand for product because of emerging technologies, increase in globalization, product innovation and customers’ demand. ii. Are driving forces acting to make competition more or less intense? Competition increases because the existing firm more involved in product innovation, price reduction and globalization. iii. Will driving forces lead to higher or lower industry profitability? Their profitability will increase because of mass production, change in cost, efficiency, change in people’s life style. Q4. Develop Strategic group map for the industry.Justify your reasons? Price| Highlow| Maytag | | AB Electrolux | | | General Electric | Whirlpool | | | | | | | | | Few models Many models| Model Variety| Q5. What are the key Factors for competitive success? Develop competitive profile matrix. Common Types of Industry Key Success Factors (KSF)| Features| Questions to answer| Technology | Introduce energy saving products, customers oriented features and efficient products that have save their cost and time. Manufacturing Related KSF| Economies of scaleIt plays very vital role as the entire major home appliance manufacturers were heavily engaged in renovating and building production facilities to gain economies of scale. E. g. , reducing labor cost and manufacturing cost. QualityProduct Quality is also a key success factor it includes eight dimensions of quality which consumers want i. e. , performance, features, reliability, conformance, durability, serviceability, aesthetics and perceived quality. | Distribution related KSF| There is a strong network of wholesale distributors.Strong direct sales capabilities via the internet. | Marketing Related KSF | They have well known brand name. They have a narrow product line. They are giving guarantees and warranties to their customer. | Strategic Factors| WhirlpoolWeight Rating Weighted Score| MaytagWeight Rating Weighted Score| Market Share| 0. 25| 4 1| 0. 15 3 0. 3| Global expansion| 0. 25| 4 1| 0 . 5 3 0. 3| Learning experience| 0. 20| 4 0. 8| 0. 20 3 0. 6| Product Quality | 0. 15| 3 0. 45| 0. 25 3 0. 75| Production Capacity| 0. 15| 3 0. 45| 0. 25 2 0. 75| Total| 1| 3. 7| 2. 7| Competitive Profile Matrix (CPM)

What are the pros and cons of Genetically Modified Organisms Research Paper

What are the pros and cons of Genetically Modified Organisms - Research Paper Example Genetically modified organism has many advantages and disadvantages those scientists and nations are contemplating on the use on human food. Genetically modified organism has been greatly tested by a scientist who has found their effects to be safe to humans. The studies indicate the organisms are safe for consumption. Many countries that are experiencing food shortage have been encouraged to grow and develop genetically modified foods which mature faster to meet their needs (Sonal 76). Genetically modified organism help increase food supply. These organisms grow very fast than the normal organisms hence is a solution to the increasing population and demand for more food. The fast growing will also increase the income for the farmers since they will get their produce within a short period. Genetically modified organisms create plants that are better resistant to pests, weeds, and other diseases. This will help to reduce the budget used in farming (Braman 42). The farmers will also not be exposed to harmful pesticides and soil will remain natural and fertile for longer. Genetically modified organism also creates efficient use of land and fewer uses of herbicides and pesticides. Genetically modified crops grow very big and occupy its space in the farm. Fewer pesticides and herbicides are used because all the crops get just what it requires. It eventually helps the soil retain its fertility unlike the soils exposed to pollution of the herbicides. Genetically modified organisms create food with better texture, flavor, and nutritional value. The food will help adding the nutritional value since most genetically modified foods have a high value of protein in them (Duvauchalle 213). The consumers will not need to add a supplement of proteins in their meals. Genetically modified organisms create food with longer shelf life. This means the foods will stay fresh for longer before they can expire. The food can be transported to further destinations and are able to

Economics 319-1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Economics 319-1 - Essay Example The financial crisis put to waste years of growth and resulted to unfathomable harm the fundamental productivity of the economy. One of a direct result of financial crisis is the loss of paper wealth (that can be measured monetarily). Loss of paper wealth has an indirect effect on the real economy in that it effects are felt incase depression or recession follows. The 2007-2009 financial crisis originated from within the United State market. it coincided with what many saw as a shift from the geopolitical dominance of the United States to a multi-polar international framework. It was not accident but rather a mistake driven by deregulatory mentality that took half a decade of post-New Deal financial stability for granted. The crisis was a failure of free market capitalism and over regulation which helped sow the seed of the crisis. The world experienced the most severe financial crisis in most recent times since Second World War. It was precipitated by sub-prime mortgages crisis which became apparent to the wider public in the year 2007. In 2008, it became a global financial crisis, and consequently into a global economic down turn that forced many countries to into recession. Stock market fell, large financial institutions collapsed and government had to come up with rescue packages to bail out the financial systems (Manuel, 2009). For a clear understanding of the crisis there is need to look at the economic happenings of Post -world war II. This period shows a significant decline in the rate of profit in the economy of the United States. From 1950 to mid 1970s, profit rates declined almost by 50%. As in past depression times, this decline triggered reduction in business investment, and consequently slower growth and higher unemployment rate. As a result many governments adopted expansionary monetary and fiscal policies. However the policies resulted to higher inflation rates

Audience essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Audience - Essay Example The total number of the audience is more than 600 which means that there is high level of diversity in the Bundestag. It contains men, women, people from different socioeconomic backgrounds as well as individuals who have varied religious or moralistic leanings. However, it is clear that their objective of being in the Bundestag is to bring improvements to society which means that whatever suggestion is given to them with regard to improving the situation of society is likely to be given a sympathetic ear. Aside from this similarity, they are also professionals who work as career politicians and are likely to have families, children, mobile phones as well as involvements in social organizations in their localities. Furthermore, it can be expected that they are well aware of international laws and even the laws of other countries in the EU concerning cell phone use while driving and the penalties associated with the crime. In fact, it becomes rather easy to see that the audience could be well aware of the issues surrounding the debate and might even be willing to follow the laws which have been enacted by nations in the region in similar situations. This makes the task of convincing them much easier since they can be shown data concerning how other countries have enacted the laws and what positive affects these laws have had on their motor safety. Further, they can be shown data from countries where mobile penetration is high yet there are no laws concerning the use of mobile phones while driving and how this affects the number of accidents on the roads. Moreover, they would also be pushed towards the point if they are told how a person’s situational awareness and ability to drive is affected while using a mobile phone. Most importantly, the argument presented to the audience has to be given a moral and ethical dimension since that can go a long way towards showing them that what they are doing will be good for society and it will have a

Any article for fitness such as tips for work out o

Any for fitness such as tips for work out o - Article Example Doing exercise in gym on a regular basis is a time consuming task. Nonetheless, it can not be missed. In order to accommodate their exercise needs in a tight schedule, many people tend to do workout at home. Not only does this practice save time, but also becomes quite convenient for people to exercise on a regular basis. In order to workout at home, one would need such exercise equipment that would not only be cheap, but would also accommodate in the space available in home. Different people have different exercise needs. One should buy the machine that would address one’s area of concern. Step bench, balance balls, exercise cycle, dumbbells and weights are common exercise equipments that can be easily accommodated in homes (Jerkins). In case someone is not able to purchase the products of health fitness, then he/she should acquire second hand equipment. With time, more equipment can be gathered. It is not essential to purchase everything at the same time. As one’s nee ds grow, so should the collection of exercise equipment. Works Cited: Jerkins, Hanna. â€Å"Tips To Choose Best Bodybuilding Equipments for Workout.† 25 Mar. 2011. Web. 20 Apr. 2011. .

Assessing Foreign Markets Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Assessing Foreign Markets - Term Paper Example However, entry into a new market requires comprehensive study and exploration of different factors in order to make more informed decision before entering the market. As such the development of a framework for entering into new foreign market can provide critical insight to a firm to make better decision to enter the market. A comprehensive framework therefore may include the exploration of factors such as decision of identifying foreign market, overall timing of entry into that market, deciding on the scale and commitment and entry mode are some of the factors which should be covered to make a better decision. This paper will develop and construct a comprehensive framework for making entry in the Mobile Phones Market in India. Based on the different factors identified in the framework, paper will than present an analysis of these factors in order to make more informed decision to enter into this market Strategic Reasons As a prelude to the use of any strategic framework to enter int o a market, it is always important for the global firms to identify the strategic reasons for which entry into a foreign market is made. Firms adapting a transnational strategy often remain in search for simultaneously achieving low cost advantage through the location and experience economies while at the same time enjoying economies of scale and taking advantage of learning curve. Firms adapting such strategy therefore often enter into different geographical markets in order to take advantage of cost reduction and achieve diversification. (Hill) India being one of the growing economies of the world therefore can provide firm some clearly identified competitive advantage. Considering the transnational strategy of the firm, entering into India market will not only allow to achieve economies of scale but also enjoy the benefit of location and experience economies. Since developed markets are leading towards maturity stage in mobile phone industry therefore it is critical for global fi rms to continue to look for growing markets such as India in order to take advantage of the economic growth made by such countries. It is also significant to note that firms working at the global level could only compete if they enjoy low cost manufacturing or services set up. Consistent focus on reducing the costs could only allow the firm to remain profitable in global market therefore markets like India can offer this opportunity. This is based upon the fact that India has well established technological base as well as qualified human resource. These resources therefore can encourage any international firm to look for entering the market and enjoy low cost operations while at the same time penetrate into a new and growing market with potential to earn higher returns. Comprehensive Framework Following elements will be included in the comprehensive framework in order to analyze the decision of making an entry into Mobile Phones market in India: Identification of foreign market This parameter will be used

Historical Perspective of Management Essay Example for Free

Historical Perspective of Management Essay Max Weber was a German sociologist that pioneered the term bureaucracy. Weber founded six major principles of bureaucracy Formal hierarchical structure, Management by rules, Organization by functional specialty, An up-focused or in-focused mission, Purposely impersonal and Employment based on technical qualifications. (Busting Bureaucracy. com) A formal hierarchical structure is the management pyramid that is designed to control the level below with organized planning and decision making. For example (chain of command). Then he developed management by rules such as policies and handbooks that are used by lower levels. Next is organization by functionality specialty this means that each individual will be placed in a position according to their specialty. These three steps of bureaucracy are still used today in every business known. Max Weber designed this pyramid because in the 1930’s the industrialism of our country was expanding and it was no order of command business was ran without consistency. And a change was needed to make things run smoothly. My advice to managing people today is to organize your business according to functional specialization. Your employees and managers according to their skills and expertise so that each job will be done to the best of that person or persons knowledge and capabilities. Use clear lines of hierarchical authority in doing so you will need to put together a clear set of policy and rules that underline the chain of demand in detail. Your managers will need to be trained accordingly with consist seminars and meeting so that they can be well trained and fully informed about their duties and the duties of their staff. Decision making should be based on the rules and guidelines developed to guarantee consistent and effective reflection of organization goals.

Accounts of Evacuees in WW2

Accounts of Evacuees in WW2 When and how did evacuation happen? Introduction Evacuation was a key wartime strategy to protect the civilian population and minimise panic in areas that would likely be enemy targets, but the plans for evacuation were started well in advance of World War II. Hitler’s appointment as Chancellor, and the devastation of aerial bombing campaigns during the Spanish Civil War, served to alert the British government to the threat on war and particularly the need to be prepared for air strikes on major cities (Ross, 2001). The Anderson Committee served to divide Britain up into areas based on risk of air strike, designating areas as being for evacuation, neutral, or reception areas. In September 1938, the British government announced its plans to evacuate 2 million people in the event of war and had found accommodation for up to 4 million people. The official evacuations started in earnest in September 1939, with ‘Operation Pied Piper’. The objective was to evacuate priority groups (children, mothers and children, the pregnant, the disabled, and teachers – as outlined in source 2) from the major cities. During this phase, 3.5 million people were relocated to reception areas, mainly by train, and often on a first come first served basis. The haphazard nature of the evacuation meant that groups were sometimes split, reception areas over-subscribed, and evacuees placed with families who were expecting to receive a different priority group or evacuees of the same social class. After the fall of France, and the onset of the Blitz, further waves of evacuations continued until September 1944. The priority groups now included the elderly and people were also relocated from coastal towns and ports. In this phase of the evacuations, approximately 200,000 children were relocated including children who had been earlier evacuated to these areas from the major cities. The government also provided free domestic travel to those who wished to make their own arrangements (Brown, 2005). Experiences of the evacuees From our knowledge of the evacuation process, particularly with regard to the haphazard nature of the allocations to reception areas and host families, we might infer that the experiences of evacuees could be quite traumatic. This is the case for Mrs Preedy, who recounted her experiences of being an evacuee over 45 years later in her book based on her wartime diary (source 7). She was evacuated with her close friends but was separated from them on arrival at the designated reception area. She was billeted with another girl who was not a friend and â€Å"foisted† upon an older and childless couple, which tallies with our understanding that evacuees were often placed with hosts who were expecting a different priority group – in this case, possibly an adult. The household that Mrs Preedy describes is working-class, with the woman having previously been in service, and the house lacking in heat (as well as emotional warmth), and dimly lit. We can infer that Mrs Preedy is most likely from a middle class background, unused to assisting regularly in household chores, and used to a warmer and brighter environment. This experience again tallies with our understanding that many evacuees were mismatched with host families on the basis of social class. Mrs Preedy’s account of her wartime experiences is useful as she has based her account on her own contemporaneous diaries. The diaries will, however, likely be dominated by the discomforts she experienced (being separated from her friends, with ‘cold’ hosts, in their cold home). We are not told how old Mrs Preedy was at the time of her evacuation or how long she was evacuated for but her unhappiness with the experience is palpable. For one 10 year old (source 11), the contemporaneous account we are given is very basic. After enquiring as to her mother’s health, she says that she doesn’t like her hosts’ faces but refers to not having seen the lady in daylight. We might infer from this that the letter was written soon after a night-time arrival and these first impressions are from a child searching for signs of friendliness in her hosts, and only finding it in their dog. While the letter is not detailed, there is significant value in this child’s immediate response to her new environment. Mr Kops’ autobiography, written almost twenty years after the end of the war, recounts his awe at the cleanliness and lavishness of his new surroundings (source 10). Mr Kops was evacuated from a poor district of London to a Buckinghamshire village, making the transition from a poor working class household to a middle class home. Mr Kops does not describe his hosts, or the other evacuees he was billeted with; his recollections are solely on the material benefits of his new environment (such as hot tap water and an indoor loo!). While Mr Kops’ autobiography is not based on notes he made during the war, his account reads as though the unadulterated joy of discovering this new lifestyle is still very much fresh in his mind. Further, his transition from a working class to a middle class home appears to have been as wondrous as Mrs Preedy’s transition from a middle class to working class environment was traumatic. Experience of the host families Having seen two very different reactions from evacuees to their experiences, we shall now turn our attention to the experiences of the host families who, as with the evacuees, could be expected to find the haphazard allocations system to have been traumatic. For many, there was a feeling of horror about the condition and behaviour of the children who had been placed with them. One extract from a contemporaneous report published in 1940 (source 14), describes in detail the concerns about the children’s lack of hygiene, poor health, poor clothing, and also describes both mothers and children being in the habit of soiling their beds. While this extract undoubtedly describes the views of some, it has been taken from a wider report and it is unclear if the rest of the report is in the same light. Some of the comments made appear almost hysterical, such as the assertion that â€Å"one child was suffering from scabies and the majority had it in their hair† [this could have simply been itchiness due to nits] and that the â€Å"school had to be fumigated after the reception†. While the veracity of some of the comments may be disputed, the excerpt is useful as social commentary as it gives a good insight into the reactions and possibly prejudices of people towards the influx of children and some of their mothers from the inner cities. For one boy (source 16), having two evacuee children sharing his home didn’t appear to be such a traumatic experience. In an interview in September 1939, the boy describes being disappointed that the evacuees were girls, as he’d expected boys, but sounds relaxed and cheerful about â€Å"showing them around†. The billeting of girls rather than boys to this home may have been a mismatch in the allocation or the child (and his family) may simply have assumed that other boys would be placed in the household. The interview with the boy was made by the BBC in the first month of Operation Pied Piper and was presumably intended to reassure the families of the evacuated, the prospective evacuees, as well as possibly encouraging further host families to come forward. The radio interview is also accompanied by a photograph of the boy, leading a small child on a donkey; as it is unlikely that all radio interviewees were routinely photographed, we might infer that the there w as a propaganda aspect to this interview and that the photograph was reproduced to promote both the interview and the evacuation programme. In considering the impact of evacuees on host families, some historians writing almost fifty years after the end of the war noted the disparity in the living conditions between the urban poor and the rural middle-classes (source 18). There is a sense in this account that there was a strong class divide in Britain during the war and that the rural middle class had been oblivious to the living conditions of those in industrial areas. The exposure to the evacuees was considered to be a shocking experience, but one that had united people into a commitment to improving living conditions after the war. Conclusion In our consideration of this topic, we have accessed only a few accounts, representing the experiences of child evacuees and their hosts. That said, we are still able to conclude that evacuation had a profound effect on both evacuees and their host families. For the evacuees, there was undoubted upheaval as they were wrenched from their families and placed in unfamiliar surroundings. Being placed with host families who may not have been expecting a child (but rather an adult), or were from a different social class may have been added to the stress of the evacuation. For the host families, evacuation brought an insight into urban and industrial life that was unexpected and in some cases unwelcome. The condition of the children was for many quite shocking, with wide-ranging concerns about the children’s health, attire and conduct. Historians have access to a wide range of evidence in order to find out about the effects of the evacuation. There is contemporaneous evidence, reflective accounts, and also the works of other historians. Assessing the value of these sources is a matter of judgment as most material is produced with a purpose in mind: determining whether that purpose enhances or undermines the credibility of the source is one of the tasks of the historian. Bibliography Assignment sources 1-18 (as provided by client) Mike Brown (2005) Evacuees: Evacuation in Wartime Britain 1939-1945. Sutton Publishing Stewart Ross (2001) Evacuation (At Home in World War II). Evans Brothers Limited.