Discussion Communications in emergency management Coursework

Discussion Communications in emergency management - Coursework Example Thirdly, the chances of miscommunication due to absence of written communication are also high. For example, inaccuracy and misreporting characterized the Chi-chi earthquake and hurricane Katrina in the US. The two instances showed the current telephone, radio and television are not reliable for communication when managing disasters (Cheng-Ming, Chan and Adnan, 2009). The use of Internet Social Networking (ISN) platforms should also be implemented. â€Å"Internet social networking (ISN) or online social networking is the use of web based technologies to provide a virtual forum for internet users however diverse and afar to communicate and share ideas and information† (Cheng-Ming, Chan and Adnan, 2009 p. 2). ISN methods such as microblogging, search engines and social networking websites are instrumental during such emergencies. For example, a new platform is being designed to make it easier for communication during times when cell phones cease to work in emergencies (Tendo, 2014).The idea known as First responder Network (First Net) is to use a seamless network to allow the accessibility of first responders in emergencies (Tendo, 2014). The use of wireless network and applications in disaster management is highly encouraged in the modern age due to the proven failure of current disaster management emergency communication (Tendo, 2014). The failure in these network failures could be brought about by demolition of electrical and network infrastructures by walls, debris or even water. In case all technological means of communication fail, it will be necessary to use alternate means to convey messages long distances, for example, by use of responders or messengers. Information will be delivered first-hand by responders to such sites. The disaster team will take action during and after the occurrence. It is also crucial to create an

Exxon Mobil Resources and Capabilities Essay Example for Free

Exxon Mobil Resources and Capabilities Essay Mobile is one of the most successful companies in the oil and energy industries today. But what makes them so successful? In an effort to answer this question, a thorough internal investigation can be helpful in determining what aspects of this company are making it an industry leader. Two aspects of this internal analysis of Exxon Mobile are the company’s resources and capabilities. Resources One of the most reputable resources that Exxon Mobil has today is a strong brand name. Exxon Mobil operates all over the world and is recognized in every part of the world (Datamonitor, 2008). When people all over the world know who a company is, what they do, and where they are located, the company gains a unique competitive advantage over the rest of the industry. A good way to analyze this resource is to use the VRINE Model (Strategic Management, 2007). This breaks down in order to analyze its value, rarity, inimitability, and exploitability. For this resource I’ll start by assessing its value. The question that must be answered is, â€Å"does this resource allow the firm to meet market demand or protect the firm from market uncertainties? † (Strategic Management, 2007). In the case of the brand name resource, I believe that it gives them ample protection against uncertainty and enables them to compete, if not lead, in the industry. Exxon operates in over 200 countries around the world (Datamonitor, 2008) The fact that this company is present all over the world, and not many other industry competitors operate in so many different regions, proves that this particular resource is very valuable to the company. If a company can possess something that another company cannot, value is inevitably created for that resource. This resource also protects them from uncertainty because this brand is already established itself within the market and can thrive in it without too much concern about the well being of the company, thus limiting some uncertainty. Next in the VRINE model is assessment of its rarity. Do any other companies possess such worldwide recognition as Exxon Mobil’s brand name can bring? There are some companies that have come close in competing with Exxon Mobil, such as ConnocoPhillips and Chevron, but none can compare with the unique profitability and opportunities that the name Exxon can bring to a region. The name is undoubtedly trusted throughout the world and rarely rivaled. Those aspects of the brand name recognition make this brand name a rarity. The next step in the VRINE model is to assess the inimitability. To assess this, the question of can competitors â€Å"acquire the valuable and rare resource quickly, or will they face a cost disadvantage in doing so? † (Strategic Management, 2007). The simple fact that the Exxon Mobil name is trademarked and registered makes it impossible for any other company to replicate its name. Also it would cost a substantial amount to buy out the company and gain its name. This alone makes the brand name inimitable. Now assessment of the nonsubstitutability is needed. The question arises, â€Å"is there protection against ready substitutes? † (Strategic Management, 2007). For Exxon, their name reputation is one that substitutes have a very difficult time matching. Exxon is leading the industry and continues to be a leader of almost every aspect of the industry today. Though substitutes are present in the industry, none can surpass the reputation of Exxon Mobil. The final step in the VRINE Model is to assess the resource’s exploitability. The question to answer is, can the firm â€Å" nurture and take advantage of the resources and capabilities that it possesses? † (Strategic Management, 2007). For Exxon, they can bring the company anywhere in the world and use the recognizable name to establish credibility and power in that region. This gives the company a considerable advantage when it comes to exploiting its brand name to establish the company around the world. After analyzing the resource using the VRINE Model, all aspects of the model have been met, so it is safe to say that this resource can give them a competitive advantage among its competitors. Another important resource that Exxon possesses is the presence of human expertise capital throughout the company (Datamoitor, 2008). Exxon employs many scientists and engineers that are researching and finding new ways to gain access to more energy resources and make the new innovations less harmful to the environment (Annual Report, 2007). This human capital has proven to be a very important resource for the company as shown by their development of new ways to increase liquid natural gas supplies and â€Å"enhancing heavy oil recovery† (Annual Report, 2007). Using the VRINE model again, I will assess this resource. In analyzing the value of the human expertise capital, again we must consider whether this resource helps the company meet market demand and can eliminate some uncertainty. In this case, I believe that the unique research department that houses these scientists and engineers is one that gives the company a great capability to compete in the market, and even excel within the industry. I believe it also eliminates some uncertainty because while the company is researching and developing cutting edge technology, it keeps them knowledgeable about all the new innovations and ideas that are throughout the industry. This makes the resource very valuable. Next, the rarity of the resource must be analyzed. I believe that this resource is rare because of the entire department (the Upstream Research Center) within the company devoted to letting these scientists and engineers use their knowledge to propel the company into the future (Annual Report, 2007). Some companies have R D departments, but they don’t posses the funding for such expertise and capabilities within these departments like Exxon has in its Upstream Research Center (Annual Report, 2007). This makes the breadth of their scientists and engineers and rare resource among it competitors. Following the VRINE Model, inimitability is the next aspect to analyze. I believe that it would be very difficult for any company to gain the human expertise capital that Exxon has. Exxon pays particular attention to its scientists and engineers by providing opportunities to use their knowledge to help solve every day problems that the company is facing. Many of these scientists and engineers had PhDs in their respective fields, thus making their ideas more credible and valuable to the company (Annual Report, 2007). This make the human expertise capital an inimitable resource because it makes it hard for other companies to replicate the magnitude of the distinguished human capital that Exxon possesses. The next step in the VRINE Model is nonsubstitutability. It would be nearly impossible for a competing company to substitute an equally effective team of engineers and scientists. The cost would be too great for the company. Exxon is leading the way in Research and Development trends, and substitutes for the quality of employees that Exxon has would be very difficult for other companies, making the nonsubstitutability of Exxon’s human capital very high. The final step is to analyze the exploitability of the human expertise capital. Exxon has proven that the expertise that is present can be exploited to develop new and innovative ideas that help Exxon maintain as an industry leader. One example of the result of this exploitation is the development of Metallyte UBW-ES, which is a new polypropylene film for packaging that has unprecedented sealing power (Datamonitor, 2008). This example proves that the exploitability of this human expertise capital makes this resource a valuable asset to the company. After analysis of the human expertise capital resource using the VRINE Model, it can be said that this resource gives Exxon Mobil a competitive advantage in the industry. Capabilities After assessing the resources that Exxon has available to them, it is now easier to illustrate what Exxon’s capabilities are because of the acquisition and ownership of these resources. One of Exxon’s important capabilities is their extensive research and development capabilities. Exxon’s research and development capabilities are very dynamic in the sense that as new energy conservation and developments arise, they can adapt their research and development departments to meet the new technologies and innovations. Their research and development capabilities go insofar as to â€Å"improve existing products, and enhance service† (Datamonitor, 2008). Using the VRINE Model again, it can be easy to see if this capability really gives Exxon a considerable competitive advantage. First we have to look at the value of this capability. Exxon has utilized the company’s valuable resource of human expertise capital do help head the research for new improvements and innovations that help lead the way for Exxon to grow (Annual Report, 2007). One such innovation is the development of Enable mPE, which has â€Å"substantially reduced waste and energy consumption across a wide variety of film applications† (Datamonitor, 2008). This capability allows them compete within the market and gain headway in developing potentially high profit innovations, thus giving value to their research and development capability. Next the rarity needs to be assessed. Though almost all of Exxon’s competitors have research and development departments, none have invested the amount that Exxon has. Also there are only a handful of top competitors within the energy industry so that alone makes Exxon’s R D department rare. In fiscal year 2007, Exxon invested $814 million in R D. Though the idea of an R D department is not a rarity in its own right, the amount invested and products produced because of their extensive R D work makes this a rare capability among its competitors. The next assessment in the VRINE Model is the inimitability of this capability. As mentioned before many other companies have a R D department, but not to the extent that Exxon’s is being funded and operated. In the past 5 years, Exxon has invested upwards of $3. 5 billion in research and development alone (Annual Report, 2007). Very few of Exxon’s competitors can match that without having an almost impossible financial obligation afterward. That is one feat that few companies can imitate. The next step is to analyze its nonsubstitutability.

Burnout in Nursing Profession

Burnout in Nursing Profession The aim of this literature review is to identify the significant factors related to burnout in the nursing profession. Nurses are most susceptible and vulnerable to the development of burnout, mainly because of the nature and emotional demands of their job. Burnout in the nursing profession is a significant concern in nursing, because it has detrimental effects both on individuals and organisations. For the individual nurse, the neuroendocrine response yields physiologic reactions that may ultimately contribute to illness. In the health care organisation, work burnout may contribute to absenteeism and turnover, both of which detract from the quality of care. Burnout is reported to originate from work itself as well as from characteristics of the individual nurse. There are also buffers to mitigate the development of burnout. Background Freudenberger (1974) first coined the term burnout to describe the build-up of feelings that professionals experience when their emotional resources are depleted (Janssen, Schaufeli Houkes 1999). Maslach and Jackson (1981) further refined this term as a syndrome of emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation and reduced personal accomplishment. Their study is a piece of seminal work and their concept on burnout has been widely accepted since. Emotional exhaustion manifests in nurses as a general loss of feeling and concern, trust, interest, and spirit. It also involves feelings of fatigue, being used up, irritability, frustration and wearing out (Maslach et al 1981). Depersonalisation refers to showing a detachment of the nurse from the patient by actively ignoring the qualities that make them unique and engaging people (Maslach et al 1981). The third dimension of the burnout syndrome is the tendency of nurses in evaluating their work negatively. Nurses feel unhappy about themselves and dissatisfied with their accomplishments on the job (Maslach et al 1981). Burnout is measured by the Maslach Burnout Inventory (Maslach et al 1981). The internal consistency of this tool has been widely tested using Cronbachs coefficient alpha (Maslach, Jackson Leiter 1996) and hence could be considered to be a standard measure for burnout (Hannigan, Edwards, Burnard, Coyle Fothergill 2000). This survey tool is a 22 item questionnaire consisting of the three subscales mentioned above of the burnout syndrome. The items are scored in a 7-point Likert scale ranging from 0 (never) to 6 (daily). A high degree of burnout is reflected in high scores on the emotional exhaustion (EE) and depersonalisation (DP) subscales and a low score on the personal accomplishment (PA) which is rated inversely. An average degree of burnout is reflected in average scores on the three subscales and a low degree of burnout is reflected in low scores on the EE and DP subscales and a high score on the PA subscales (Maslach et al 1981). Rationale Burnout is often been reported as a causing factor for attrition of nurses from the nursing profession (Armstrong-Stassen, Al-Maaitah, Cameron Horsburgh 1994). In addition burnout in nursing has been associated with poor patient satisfaction and poor patient outcome (Vahey, Aiken, Sloane, Clarke Vargas 2004, Nayeri, Negarandeh, Vaismoradi, Ahmadi Faghihzadeh 2009). These adverse outcomes of burnout could have significant indelible impact on the Singapore governments aim to establish Singapore as a reputable medical hub in the ASEAN region. Studies and statistics have shown that nurses in Singapore are at risk of developing burnout (Boey, Chan, Ko, Goh Lim 1997, Lim Yuen 1998, EnterpriseOne 2006), however, surprisingly, no research have been done in Singapore to assess the level of burnout and the related factors of burnout in their nurses. Therefore, this literature review is initiated to generate a comprehensive understanding of what is known about burnout in the nursing profes sion. This could have implications for understanding the overall well-being of the nurses in Singapore. Aims and Objectives Aim and objective: To identify the significant factors related to burnout in the nursing profession. Method A literature search was conducted using the keywords nurses and burnout on CINAHL and MEDLINE. The search is supplemented with a manual search in journals published in Singapore for further information regarding related research conducted in the local context and a supplementary follow-up of other cited materials in Google Scholar, where appropriate. Findings Collating the evidence from the literature led to the identification of three main themes for the related factors of burnout for nurses. The themes are stress of the health care professionals, individual variables and leadership as the buffering factor. The proposition that high stress clinical care settings as organisational stressors have been extensively examined. Therefore not surprisingly, studies on burnout done in medical, surgical and high dependency units were most prominent (Nayeri et al 2009, Adali Pirami 2002). Gillespie and Melby (2003) purported that the reason is because the nursing staffs working at these demanding areas are likely to spend considerable time during their working day in intense interactions with people. While Maslach-Pines (2000) suggested that it is because the nature of the work of these departments is often described as physically demanding and nurses are also continually faced with heavy demands for pity, sympathy and compassion. However, while many studies demonstrate a strong correlation between high levels of stress in high stress work environments and increased incidence and degree of burnout among nurses (Schmitz, Neumann Oppermann 2000), others produce evidence showing there is no correlat ion (Buunk, Ybema, Zee, Schaufeli Gibbons 2001). In the study conducted by Buunk et al (2001), it is being demonstrated that nurses working in high stress, specialised environments are less burned out than their counterparts working in those perceived as low stress environments. However, it should be noted that the participants for their research are nurses who have at least 10 years of working experience. They would have been able to handle their stress more efficiently and would have been less prone to burnout. Therefore, it can be argued that this research lost its reliability because the sample represents a group of generally healthy workers (Demerouti, Geurts, Bakker Euwema 2004:997). Moreover, the researchers also conducted a face-to-face interview with the participants. By the interview questions, the participants could infer that the researchers are interested to determine their stress related behaviour. Therefore, the sensitive nature of these questions would have inflict ed a response bias as participants do not want to be stigmatised as not being able to cope (Maslach, Jackson Leiter 1996). In more recent years, among the organisational stressors, workload as a contributing factor to burnout is more commonly reported and associated with the emotional aspect of the burnout syndrome (Greenglass, Burke Moore 2003, Lin, St John McVeigh 2009). Taris, Le Blanc, Schaufeli and Schreurs (2005) suggested that a high score on this single aspect of the burnout syndrome will be sufficient enough to predict burnout. Authors proposed that the 21st century health care reform has further intensified nurses workload. The work intensification studies in and around health care are providing convincing evidence on the extent to which efficiencies achieved by health care organisations are largely due to the increased workloads of nurses as a result of both staff reductions and increasing activity and patient complexity (Green 2004, Aiken, Clarke, Sloane Sochalski 2001). It is argued that increased workload will lead to increased stress and in turn leads to higher chances of burnout (Masla ch Leiter 2008). Therefore, it can be speculated that there should be widespread concomitant increase in reported severity of burnout due to the increased pressure on nurses. Nonetheless, the question remains as to why in the same situational conditions, some nurses burn out, whereas others show no syndrome. The most likely explanation is that causes of burnout are found in both the environment and the individual. Significant relationships between burnout and certain demographic characteristics have been reported but the results are still far from conclusive. The few socio-demographic variables most commonly being investigated are age, gender and marital status. In their study, Maslach, Schaufeli and Leiter (2001) reported that age has most consistently been related to burnout. Burnout has been observed more often among young workers than among those aged over 30 or 40 years and it seems to occur rather early in ones work career. Schaufeli and Greenglass (2001) accounted that regarding gender differences in burnout, results are mixed and may reflect difference in roles or occupations. Maslach et al (2001) found that emotional exhaustion has usually been reported to be more common among women, whereas depersonalisation has been more common among men. Bakker, Demerouti and Schaufeli (2002) conducted a study in which a wide range of different occupations and organisations were recruited and answered through the internet, women reported higher levels of burnout than men did, particularly when they were relatively young or had relatively little work experience. However, the respondents were mostly men and rather young (Bakker et al 2002). Schaufeli and Enzmann (1998) with regard to marital status, those who are unmarried, especially men, appear to be more prone to burnout compared with those who are married. Singles seem to experience even higher burnout levels than those who are divorced. Personality characteristics as the psychological aspects of individual variables were explored as an important variable in the burnout process in a number of investigations (Simoni Paterson 1997, Allen Mellor 2002, Bà ¼hler Land 2003). However, the specific features of personality that affect the perception of burnout remain unclear. Garrosa, Moreno-Jimà ©nez, Liang and Gonzà ¡lez (2008) proposed a model of prediction of burnout in nursing and they reported that their findings give support that personality factors are significant predictors of the three aspects of burnout. But the authors were not clear on which personality characteristics were investigated. Allen et al (2002) and Zellars, Perrewà © and Hochwarter (2000) reported that neuroticism is associated with the emotional exhaustion aspect of burnout and external locus of control also demonstrated positive relationship with burnout. However, Bà ¼hler et al (2003) and Toscano and Ponterdolph (1998) reported that finding s are mixed for hardiness. Interestingly, more recent studies indentified leadership as a factor related to burnout (Kanste, Kyngà ¤s Nikkilà ¤ 2007, Corrigan, Diwan, Campion Rashid 2002). Leadership issues did not appear as a noteworthy factor related to burnout in earlier studies, even though it had been discussed some twenty years ago by Bass (1985). Nonetheless, leadership issues cannot be considered as new, but rather they appear to have increased in relative significance. Weber (2007) articulated that the increasing calls over the last decade for considering leadership as a related factor of burnout is particularly because of the chronic recruitment and retention issues confronting the nursing profession. There is also a rich source of comment on the impact of health care reform on nurses and nursing in the health care sector research literature (Aiken et al 2001). In a study conducted by Laschinger and Leiter (2006), their findings also support the key role of strong nursing leadership in creating c onditions for work engagement and ultimately, safe, high-quality patient care. Demerouti, Bakker, Nachreiner and Schaufeli (2000), in their proposed model of burnout and life satisfaction amongst nurses, identified that an individuals engagement with their work will predict a degree of low burnout. However, Stordeur, Dhoore and Vandenberghe (2001) warned that if leaders are too tyrannical and control-oriented, their leadership could exacerbate the burnout process. Among the different types of leadership, transformational leadership has been most commonly proposed and viewed as a buffer which moderates the impact of burnout (Stordeur et al 2001). Transformational leaders are visionary, balanced, self-aware and confident of breaking existing professional boundaries (Stordeur et al 2001). Nonetheless, findings from the study by Stordeur et al (2001) have to be viewed with cautious. This is because they only attempted to measure the relationship between leadership and the emotional aspects of the burnout syndrome. The other two dimensions, depersonalisation and lack of personal accomplishment were not measured. Further studies would have to be taken to establish implicit links between leadership and burnout. Ulrich, Buerhaus, Donelan, Norman Dittus (2005) found that effective control over practice resulted in increased status, respect and recognition. Hochwà ¤lder (2008) further emphasised that through a chain reaction, transformational leadersh ip style engenders group cohesion and empowerment in nurses and hence it has been found that transformational leadership is inversely correlated with burnout in nurses. Discussions Past research on burnout in Singapore is generally anecdotal in nature (Tung 2000). Others attempt to investigate the nurses stress level and their association with the psychological well-being and several work-related outcomes such as job satisfaction, organisational commitment, intention to quit and job-induced tension (Boey et al 1997, Lim et al 1998). In a study on stress among nurses in the emergency department in Singapore, Lateef, Ng and Anatharaman (2001) reported that the nurses who are older, have more working experiences and hold higher positional post had lower stress scores as compared to those who are younger, have less working experience and have lower positional post. However, the authors did not proffer insights to explain these observable facts. While such research gives indication that there is a high level of stress in the nurses in Singapore, it cannot be implied that there would be a high degree of burnout in these nurses. While it is clear that stress results i n burnout among some individuals, also apparent, yet not explained by the empirical evidence is the fact that others faced with high levels of stress do not experience burnout. Therefore an implicit relationship of high level of stress and high degree of burnout cannot be deduced because there is evidence of high stress being associated with low burnout (Bunnk et al 2001). Therefore, studies on burnout have to be conducted to investigate the burnout phenomenon among the nurses in Singapore. For the time being, it could only be speculated that nurses in Singapore are at risk of developing burnout. From the findings, it is shown that nursing burnout appears to be the result of not only contextual factors but also individual factors. Results from the studies on the socio-demographic variables and personality characteristics are weak and ambiguous. Only age has been identified as a relatively good correlate to burnout, with younger nurses being more susceptible. It would be reasonable to believe that younger nurses are more at risk to burnout because they have to move from a familiar educational environment into the workforce where there are high expectations of them to rapidly function as a competent nurse (Schaufeli et al 1998). As a result, they experience challenges transitioning from student to practicing professional nurse (Godinez, Schweiger, Gruver Ryan 1999). Transformational leadership could result in low burnout. It is important to note that low degree of burnout represents a positive psychological state and an effective state of well-being (de Rijk, Le Blanc, Schaufeli de Jonge 1998). In the emerging literature, there is a shift from the traditional focus on weaknesses and malfunctioning toward understanding human strength and optimum functioning at work (Gustafsson Strandberg 2009). Conceiving of low burnout as wellness makes a contribution to the literature because it focuses on the positive aspects of work. Positive research has the potential to improve the image of nursing and attract a new generation to the profession. It also have implications for identifying and modifying possible areas of frustration that would result in burnout and thus help relieve the high costs of turnover by improving nurse retention (Teng, Shyu Chang 2007). The major contribution of such an approach is that it enhances the understanding of how the mana gement of the health care organisational can affect nurses well-being. This knowledge is essential for the future development and well-being of all nurses and the profession of nursing. Research implications Current research focuses on examining the burnout phenomenon in acute settings and their findings have presented evidence that the level of burnout might not be influenced by different clinical settings. Therefore, future studies should move beyond the acute care settings to better understand the burnout phenomenon. Except for one, all authors of the research used for this literature review utilised cross-sectional methodology, therefore, casual relationships cannot be made from their results. Their findings also cannot be generalised in another milieu. Longitudinal research is required in order to enhance the understanding of the burnout process. Maslach et al (1981) had pointed out that longitudinal research although presents a large challenge, it is of critical importance for the comprehension of burnout. Future longitudinal examinations should establish a profile of the nurses at the beginning of their employment then follow up over a longer period of time in correlation with burnout status and the related factors influencing the development of the burnout process (Ekstedt Fagerberg 2005). For all of the studies used for this literature review, the data are collected using self-reports from the participants. Many authors warned that self-reported data might be contaminated by common method variance, because both the independent and dependent variables are based upon one source of information which is the participants (Demerouti et al 2000). Therefore, future research should also utilised objective means for collecting the result findings. Conclusion The concept of burnout has sustained the interest of nurses and researchers for several decades. Despite the large amount of studies done in attempt to investigate and predict the related factors of burnout, no conclusive data could be drawn. This is because the health care system is in constant change. The factors that relate to burnout will present different relative significance with the changes. Notwithstanding this, the related factors to burnout could generally be classified as both organisational and personal related. Therefore, to base practice, burnout intervention programmes should be multidimensional consisting of work-related as well as personal directed approaches.

HIV / AIDS among Kenyan Youth :: HIV in Africa

In 2001, Sub-Saharan Africa recorded the highest number of deaths from HIV/AIDS, with 29.4 million people living with AIDS; 10 million young people and 3 million children. Among these, 12.2 million were women and 10.1 million men. In 2002, 3.5 million new infections were reported. From this backdrop, Kenyans were interviewed on their perceptions of sex and condom use within heterosexual relationships revealing that denial and silence played a major role in the escalation of the pandemic while gender differences, culture and power were perceived as negatively impacting negotiation of sex and condom use within Kenyan communities. Kagutui ka mucie gatihakagwo ageni. (The secrets of one’s home are not to be revealed to strangers) - Gikuyu proverb AIDS was a disease that shines in hush and thrives on secrecy. It was prospering because people were choosing not to talk about it. It was this realization that provoked me to go wider, beyond my personal circle, beyond the people I worked with. The quieter we keep it the more people it will affect and stigmatize, especially while people believe that AIDS affects some people and not others (Kaleeba 29). This article is based on semi structured interviews with four Kenyan men and women on how they perceive, and negotiate sex and condom use within heterosexual relationships. It focuses on gender, culture and power, and how these dynamics are projected, if at all, in participants’ negotiation of sexual relationships within the Kenyan community. The purpose of the study is to understand the relationship between gender, power and HIV/AIDS prevention. Sub-Saharan Africa has recently recorded the highest incidences of death from HIV/AIDS with a total of 29.4 million people living with the disease. Among these, ten million are young people aged fifteen to twenty four while three million are children under the age of fifteen. In the year 2002, 3.5 million new infections were reported (UNAIDS 2). One reason for this seemingly recent rise in the number of infections is the result of years of denial and silence about the existence of HIV/AIDS. Recent statistics indicate that Botswana’s adult prevalence Sex, HIV/AIDS and Silence 45 rate for example, has peaked to 38.8 %, Lesotho 31%, Swaziland 33.4% and Zimbabwe 33.7%. In total, Africa experiences 6,000 AIDS related deaths per day and Kenya, 18 deaths per hour (UNAIDS 3). Researchers, educators and governments now suggest the need [for] culturally sensitive knowledge of sexual beliefs and practices as a way forward to understanding and evaluating patterns of HIV/AIDS transmission in different communities, in view of designing effective intervention programs (Lansky 3). This paper focuses on a study of culture and HIV/AIDS, and what effects gender differences and power might be having on HIV/AIDS

Acg 4401

Review Questions ACG 4401 U01B Summer 2010NameMULTIPLE CHOICEChoose the one alternative that best completes the statement or answers the question.1) Which of the factors listed below is not a common factor for fraud? 1) _______A) rationalization for the crimeB) desire to get even with the employerC) opportunity to commit fraudD) pressure to commit fraud2) Misappropriation of assets can also be called 2) _______A) Fraudulent financial reportingB) Management fraudC) Employee fraudD) Computer fraud3)Which type of antivirus program is most effective in spotting an infection soon after it starts? 3) _______A) a virus detection programB) a virus protection programC) a virus identification programD) none of the above4) How can an organization reduce fraud losses? 4) _______A) require vacations and rotate dutiesB) maintain adequate insuranceC) encrypt data and programsD) use forensic accountants5) A ________ is similar to a ________, except that it is a program rather than a code segment hid den in a host program. 5) _______A) worm; virusB) worm; Trojan horseC) Trojan horse; wormD) virus; worm6) Which method of fraud is physical in its nature rather than electronic? 6) _______A) eavesdroppingB) crackingC) scavengingD) hacking7) The deceptive method by which a perpetrator gains access to the system by pretending to be an authorized user is called 7) _______A) masquerading.B) superzapping.C) hacking.D) cracking.8) Intentional or reckless conduct that results in materially misleading financial statements is called 8) _______A) financial fraud.B) misstatement fraud.C) audit failure fraud.D) fraudulent financial reporting.9) The potential dollar loss that could result if an unwanted event occurs is called a(n) 9) _______A) exposure.B) extraordinary loss.C) threat.D) risk.10) The likelihood that an adverse or unwanted event could occur is referred to as a(n) 10) ______A) threat.B) loss.C) risk.D) exposure.11) Which of the following federal laws incorporated the language of th e AICPA about controls into a law applying to all registered companies? 11) ______A) Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977B) The Securities Act of 1933C) Federal Corruption Prevention Act of 1987D) The Securities Exchange Act of 193412) Personnel policies such as background checks, mandatory vacations, and rotation of duties tend to deter 12) ______A) fraud by outsidersB) unintentional errorsC) employee fraud or embezzlementD) payroll irregularities13) Chuck Hewitt was relaxing after work with a colleague at a local watering hole. Well into his second martini, he began expressing his opinion about government regulation. It seems that, as a result of â€Å"government interference† the company's longstanding policy of making low-interest loans to top management was being terminated. The regulation that Chuck is referring to is the 13) ______A) Truth in Lending ActB) McCain-Feingold ActC) Sarbanes-Oxley ActD) Foreign Corrupt Practices Act14) River Rafting Adventures of Iowa prov ides rafts and tour guides to tourists eager to ride the wild rivers of Iowa. Management has determined that there is one chance in a thousand of a client being injured or killed. Settlement of resulting lawsuits has an average cost of $650,000. Insurance with a $50,000 deductible is available. It covers the costs of lawsuits unless there is evidence of criminal negligence. What is the expected loss without insurance? 14) ______A) $650B) $650,000C) $50,000D) $5015) The risk that remains after management implements internal controls is 15) ______A) Risk appetiteB) Residual riskC) Risk assessmentD) Inherent risk16) River Rafting Adventures of Iowa provides rafts and tour guides to tourists eager to ride the wild rivers of Iowa. Management has determined that there is one chance in a thousand of a client being injured or killed. Settlement of resulting lawsuits has an average cost of $650,000. Insurance with a $50,000 deductible is available. It covers the costs of lawsuits unless ther e is evidence of criminal negligence. What is the expected loss with insurance? 16) ______A) $650B) $50,000C) $650,000D) $5017) There are different types of internal controls available to an organization. The type of controls that deters problems before they arise are called 17) ______A) preventive controls.B) corrective controls.C) exposure controls.D) detective controls.18) According to SysTrust, the reliability principle of integrity is achieved when 18) ______A) the system is available for operation and use at times set forth by agreement.B) system processing is complete, accurate, timely, and authorized.C) the system can be maintained as required without affecting system availability, security, and integrity.D) the system is protected against unauthorized physical and logical access.19) An electronic document that certifies the identity of the owner of a particular public key. 19) ______A) Public keyB) Asymmetric encryptionC) Digital signatureD) Digital certificate20) In develo ping policies related to personal information about customers, Folding Squid Technologies adhered to the Trust Services framework. The standard applicable to these policies is 20) ______A) privacy.B) security.C) confidentiality.D) availability.21) In a private key system the sender and the receiver have ________, and in the public key system they have ________. 21) ______A) the same key; two separate keysB) an encrypting algorithm; a decrypting algorithmC) different keys; the same keyD) a decrypting algorithm; an encrypting algorithm22) Which of the following is an example of a corrective control? 22) ______A) Physical access controlsB) Intrusion detectionC) Emergency response teamsD) Encryption23) A more rigorous test of the effectiveness of an organization's computer security. 23) ______A) Vulnerability scanB) Penetration testC) Log analysisD) Intrusion detection system24) Which of the following is not a requirement of effective passwords? 24) ______A) Passwords should be no more than 8 characters in length.B) Passwords should contain a mixture of upper and lowercase letters, numbers and characters.C) Passwords should be changed at regular intervals.D) Passwords should not be words found in dictionaries.25) An auditor examining a firm's accounting information system creates a fictitious customer in the system and then creates several fictitious sales to the customer. The records are then tracked as they are processed by the system. This is an example collecting audit evidence using 25) ______A) a system control audit review file.B) an integrated test facility.C) audit hooks.D) the snapshot technique.E) continuous and intermittent simulation.26) The ________ part of the auditing process involves (among other things) the auditors observing the operating activities and having discussion with employees. 6) ______A) communication of audit resultsB) evaluation of audit evidenceC) audit planningD) collection of audit evidence27) The evidence collection method that considers the relationship and trends among information to detect items that should be investigated further is called 27) ______A) physical examination.B) vouching.C) analytical review.D) review of the documentation.28) One way an auditor gauges how much audit work and testing needs to be performed is through evaluating materiality and seeking reasonable assurance about the nature of the information or process. What is key to determining materiality during an audit? 28) ______A) the testing of records, account balances, and procedures on a sample basisB) determining if material errors exist in the information or processes undergoing auditC) determining what is and is not important given a set of circumstances is primarily a matter of judgmentD) none of the above29) The ________ to auditing provides auditors with a clear understanding of possible errors and irregularities and the related risks and exposures. 29) ______A) financial audit approachB) risk-adjusted approachC) risk-based approachD) information systems approach30) The ________ audit is concerned with the economical and efficient use of resources and the accomplishment of established goals and objectives. 30) ______A) financialB) informationalC) operationalD) information systemsAnswersBCDBACADACACCABDABDAACBABDCCCC

Nurses Knowledge and Attitude Regarding Essay

A significant number of patients continue to experience unrelieved pain during hospitalization despite decades of research, improved therapeutic measures and advancement in technology. Delays in recovery, decreased patient satisfaction, decreased quality of life and increased healthcare costs are some consequences related to poor pain management. Limitation in nurses’ knowledge about pain assessment and management contributes to poor pain management in hospitalized patients. Literature suggests concerns about addiction and respiratory depression as a likely cause of under treatment of pain (Lewthwaite et.al, 2011). A study conducted to explore nursing opinions about pain revealed a tendency for personal opinion to influence the choice of opioid dose (Lewthwaite et.al, 2011). The purpose of this study was to better understand the registered nurses’ level of knowledge of and attitudes toward pain management. Where do nurses receive and update their knowledge about pain management? A 2007 survey of Canadian university undergraduate programs showed pain education virtually nonexistent in the curricula of health care professional faculties (Watt-Watson, McGillion, & Hunter, 2007). Providing adequate pain management depends on the level of knowledge of, skills, and attitudes of nurses. To address learning needs effectively, and prior to planning educational opportunities, it is essential to identify these knowledge gaps. Education alone may be insufficient to change practice, given limited improvement in pain management over the last three decades. Some suggest changing the entire culture within any given organization to one that designates and empowers nurses in areas of assessment and management of patients’ pain experiences , thereby giving the nurse greater influence over these areas (Lewthwaite et al., 2011). Strong nursing leadership and support from clinical nurse specialists, educators, and administrators is needed to introduce and sustain practice changes. Methods Design and Sample This descriptive quantitative study was conducted in an urban tertiary care hospital in Midwestern Canada. A convenience sample included 761 full and part-time registered nurses who administer analgesia as part of their practice. Clinical units included surgery, woman and child, cardiac sciences, medicine, family medicine, geriatric-rehabilitation, emergency, mental health, and the hospital float pool (Lewthwaite et al., 2011). A self-administered one-page data survey was created for the study, which collected demographical information as well as years of experience and pain knowledge. The survey included the Ferrell and McCaffery (2008) Knowledge and Attitudes Survey Regarding Pain (KASRP) tool. The original KASRP tool would be thought of as too long to complete during working hours, so a revised survey using only the 22 true and false question on the KASRP tool was used (Lewthwaite et al., 2011). The KASRP tool, developed in 1987 and revised in 2008, is used extensively as a pre and posttest evaluation measure for educational programs to assess nurses and other healthcare professionals. The content was reviewed and validated by pain experts, and content information was established through current pain management standards derived from organizations including the World Health Organization, American Pain Society, and the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research. Construct validity was established by comparing scores of nurses at various levels of expertise from students, to senior pain experts (Ferrell & McCaffery, 2008). Procedures An alpha level of 0.05 would determine statistical significance. Construct validity was evaluated by comparing nurses scores with varying levels of expertise, from students to senior nurses and pain experts. Test-retest reliability was established (r > 0.80) and internal consistency was shown, with a coefficient alpha of 0.85 (Lewthwaite et al., 2011). Results Out of 761 nurses, 324 participated and returned the surveys, for a response rate of 43%. Years of experience ranged from 24% with more than 25 years of professional experience to 22% with five years or less of professional experience. The majority of nurses’ reported working in surgery, woman and child, and cardiac sciences. Almost half of the participants (48.8%) scored 80% or higher and 66% of the nurses rated their knowledge of pain management as good. Questions relating to pharmacology, in particular those involving knowledge of opioids, scored the lowest. As with similar studies on this subject, this study found knowledge gaps among acute care nurses. The findings of this study can be used to design continuing educational opportunities in the work place that include pharmacology information to meet specific needs in the workplace. The results also provide a benchmark to evaluate the effectiveness of enhancing pain education in the classroom setting. Ethical Considerations Ethics approval was obtained from the study hospital research review committee, and a university research ethics board. The list of potential participants was obtained from the human resources department. Hospital volunteers delivered the study packets to unit-based staff mailboxes. The package included a letter of invite to participate, the survey questionnaire, and a self-addressed return envelope. Participation was voluntary, and completion and return of the questionnaire indicated such. In this self-reporting study, participants may have taken the opportunity to discuss questions or seek answers from other sources, as well as answer questions in a professionally or socially desirable fashion. Conclusion The battle to achieve effective pain management despite years of research and efforts by all involved continues to be a challenge. Previous nursing studies, along with this study, cite a knowledge gap amongst nurses as one reason for poor pain management and identify areas such as pharmacology, where nurses in particular lack knowledge. Continuing education opportunities are essential to achieve improved pain management skills. Education alone will not improve pain management; optimal quality care is dependent not only on a culture of learning but also on a cohesive professional team with inter-professional collaboration to ensure effective, individualized pain management. References Ferrell, B., & McCaffery, M. (2008). Knowledge and attitude survey regarding pain. Retrieved December 12, 2012 from http://prc.coh.org/Knowldege%20%20Attitude%20Survey%20-%20updated%205-08.pdf Lewthwaite,B.J., Jabusch, K.M., Wheeler, B.J., Schnell-Hoehn, K.N., Mills, J., Estrella-Holder, E., & Fedorowicz, A.(2011). Nurses’ knowledge and attitudes regarding pain management in hospitalized adults. Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing, 42(6), 251-7. Retrieved December 12, 2012 from http://ehis.ebscohost.com.library.gcu.edu Watt-Watson, J., McGillion, M., & Hunter, J. (2007). A survey of pain curricula in pre-licensure health sciences facilities in Canadian Universities. Retrieved December 12, 2012 from http://www.pulsus.com/journals/pdf_frameset.jsp?jnlKy=7&atlKy=9192&isArt=t&jnlAdvert=Pain&adverifHCTp=&sTitle=A%20survey%20of%20prelicensure%20pain%20curricula%20in%20health%20science%20faculties%20in%20Canadian%20universities,%20Pulsus%20Group%20Inc&HCtype=Physician.

Moral Ambiguity in Kate Chopins The Awakening essays

Moral Ambiguity in Kate Chopin's The Awakening essays Morality lies in the eyes of the beholder. The concept of good and evil can vary with one person to the next. Certainly, a married woman loving a man other than her husband could be viewed as a sinner evil. Yet, someone may ask if her husband treated her poorly, or if she was seduced and it might be acceptable. Edna Pontellier was that woman, though neither excuse applies, so is she evil? This moral ambiguity shrouds Ednas character throughout Kate Chopins novel, The Awakening, emphasizing the theme of being true to ones self above all else, even societys views of morality. The imagery accompanying Edna, specifically her physical features, and the color yellow confuse the reader further of Ednas moral stance. Ednas physical appearance was always quite unconventional, not the typical society pleasing woman. She was not the embodiment of every womanly grace and charm as was Adele Ratignolle, but rather handsome than beautiful. A man is usually described as handsome; this depicts Edna as being somewhat androgynous, a mixture of man and woman, of good and evil. Once Edna was awakened to her self and accepted this unique characteristic she had all the men in New Orleans at her feet. Edna never completely devoted her self to any of these men either, underlining the point that she did not need anyone elses approval; she did not need a man to complete her, and she was never going to sacrifice her self for anyone. This could all be viewed as selfish in ones eyes or progressive in anothers, thus keeping Ednas character in the gray. Or yellow...Yellow was a major color surrounding Ednas appearance at her grand affair celebrating her independence. The tablecloth, a cover of pale yellow satin under strips of lacework, the candles burning softly under yellow silk shades, the yellow roses that ...

Kurt Cobain essays

Kurt Cobain essays On April 9th the world woke up to the news of Kurt Cobain's suicide. Those who followed the grundge music of Cobain's band, Nirvana, were angry, but not surprised. With songs such as "I Hate Myself and Want to Die" and constant references to suicide and drugs, suicide was the obvious explanation for his death. Kurt put it best when he said, "I'm thought of as this pissy, complaining, freaked-out schizophrenic who wants to kill himself all the time." (Bozza) To many people, Cobain just joined the club of rock stars who self-destructed. Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, and Brian Jones set the precedent. The Seattle Police Department confirmed the conclusion everyone had already made; Kurt Cobain committed suicide. Sympathy was hard to find. After his death, Kurt was called a "worthless shred of human debris" by Rush Limbaugh. (Amirault). Even Cobain's fans were not sympathetic to the pain Kurt suffered at all. They were mad. At his vigil, the crowd chanted "a**hole" because they thought of Kurt as a coward. (Jones) Cobain already had undergone a near-death experience in Rome earlier in the year that may or may not have been a suicide attempt in which Cobain digested nearly fifty pills called Rohypnol. He also locked himself in a room with a .38 caliber pistol and said he was going to kill himself after a dispute. Kurt Cobain was also notorious for hating his fame. He was once quoted as saying, "I'd rather be dead than cool." (Jones) Kurt Cobain also had stomach pains that sometimes caused him to vomit air because he could not even hold down water. Cobain's marriage and band were both on the brink of breaking up. The pieces of the puzzle seem to fit together perfectly. The suicide note, the pain, the history of Kurt Cobain, and the attitude everyone perceived Kurt possessed pointed to suicide. Neither Kurt Cobain's character nor what he did previous to this incident is in question. It is true...

In the United States, we do not need to plan for retirement. Social Essay - 1

In the United States, we do not need to plan for retirement. Social Security will cover our needs when we are retired - Essay Example Thus, there is an overall increase in the global population, which is going to have repercussions not only on the United States, but also on the global community. One of the areas in which our future society is going to be most effected is in the field of social security because the growth of our population and the rise of an older generation of people is going to cause economic havoc not only on benefits such as tax cuts and social security, but also on the entire economic system. Social security was created as a social welfare program that was designed to take care of people as they aged and became less productive members of society. It was first proposed by Roosevelt as part of the New Deal in order to move America out of the Great Depression. Since then, the original concept and act has been rewritten and developed so that it can stay current with the times and adapt to meet the demands/changes of the population. It was designed so that at a certain point, people would retire, ho wever they would still be receiving a check from the government every month that would help pay for their living expenses. In this way, equilibrium would be kept between those that were younger and more productive in the working environment by freeing up the jobs held by older people. It is through taxation that the government is able to fund the checks to take care of the elderly, however there are problems that will be facing a new generation of people, as there is an increase in the number of elderly (Livingston 1-31). As stated previously, the lives of humanity are being expanded due to advances in medical science and people are now having more children. There is an accelerated growth in the human population on the planet that is going to have problems keeping up with this growing population. In the United States, this is going to be seen with the â€Å"Baby Boomers.† These were individuals that were born between the years of 1946 and 1964. This explosive growth in the po st-world war II population was good in that it stimulated the economy by providing a workforce to both work and consume in the economy. With an increasing number of these Baby Boomers retiring, more and more money is being used from social security, which is putting a strain on this economic system. Along with the already increasing budget cuts and problems with taxation, there is not enough funds coming into the system in order to provide financial benefits after retirement. In essence, the current workforce is going to be paying for these people’s social security, but will have no form of social security of their own. By the time it reaches the next generation of children to retire, there will be very few benefits of social security remaining (Andersen, and Taylor 370-75). Social security is also having an effect on the medical care system and vice versa. One of the benefit adjuncts of social security is the medical insurance that is supplied to all senior citizens. Again, this is supplied through the taxation of the population. As more elderly citizens begin to tap into this resource, the less that will be left for the rest of the population once they hit retirement age. Even though medical technology has become more advanced and is saving lives, there is a costly rise in the costs of healthcare associated not only with the implementation of treatments and procedures, but also with the research and development that goes into the creation of these. More and more

CSR and Corporations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

CSR and Corporations - Essay Example â€Å"Even though companies publish huge volumes of literature with respect to their works for the well-being of the society, in practice, many companies define their obligations in a much more limited† (Geoffrey, 2008). This paper analyses the sincerity of corporations in showing their social responsibility for the development of society. Does the evidence to date suggest that CSR is a useful way to enable corporations to make meaningful contributions to social development? Plenty of companies have shown sincerity in demonstrating social responsibility in recent times. For example, Acer is a socially committed organization which has engaged in a conscious effort to make environmentally-friendly products. â€Å"Acer focuses on developing an effective corporate governance mechanism of CSR and sustainability issues, improving efficiency among working groups, initiating stakeholder engagement, and building for better internal and external communications†(CSR within Acer, n . d). It should be noted that the disposal of computers and peripherals is a big problem nowadays. Injudicious disposal of computers and peripherals may cause immense damage to the environment. Acer has strong waste management and recycling mechanisms which help them to collect the e-waste generated by them and recycle it properly. Moreover, CFC cleaners have been completely eliminated from the Acer circuit board production. In short, Acer is not only interested in accumulating profits, but also in protecting the environment. British Petroleum or BP is another company which showed good examples of social responsibility in recent times. They faced stiff challenges because of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill recently. More than 4.9  million barrels ^ of crude oil spilled over the water as a result of Mexico oil spill. It caused huge damages to the marine and wild life near the Gulf of Mexico. BP never tried to wash their hands and stay away from the responsibilities of this

Financial Checkup Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Financial Checkup - Assignment Example The figures clearly indicate that I am credit worth as my assets are capable of covering my credit. In addition, it shows that I understand how to manage my debts as I keep the levels of debts below what I really own (Assets).The figures can be helpful when seeking short term credit to handle my short term needs (Eisenberg 69). According to my income and expense statements, the total expense is $2750 while my income is $900.The total loss is $1840.From this figures, my total expense exceed the total income resulting in a loss. This may be attributed to the fact that being a student, there is little time to engage in income generating activities but there is extensive spending due to a number of requirements in the learning institution and my personal needs. However, my income of 900 dollars show that I am capable of managing my time and engage in part time income generating activities , which clearly indicate that I can utilize time as a major resource in making substantive income(Eisenberg 62). My liquidity ratio is 2.92,which is below the recommended ratio of 3.The ratio shows that my liquid assets cannot meet my current expenses by a difference of 0.8.This can be attributed to the fact that as a student, I am bound to spent more than what I hold as liquid assets. However, the figure is comparatively positive compared to other students as it shows that I can meet most of my current expenses using my own cash and cash equivalents. Further, the figure is not alarming as I can still manage to get external source of cash such as pocket money from parents to cover the current expenses that I may be unable to meet on my own (Eisenberg 33).The debt asset ratio is 0.72.This figure is below 1, which clearly indicates that my assets exceed my debts and so I can pay my debts. Further, the figure shows that I am credit worth when borrowing or applying for a loan. My monthly average amount for revolving savings is$417.This average budgeted amount for every moth show

Art Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 41

Art - Essay Example This blackboard is painted in black with some writings inside, and this creates attention to the viewer. On the left side below the blackboard is a chair, which seems to have been used in the ancient times. The chair is well decorated and design in a manner that creates attention to the viewer. On the right side is a cupboard and near to it is woman standing near to the cupboard. Additionally, on the forefront of the cupboard is a woman wearing a blue dress, which is not actually a dress but a painting decorated on the body; thus making it appear like a blue dress. The blue color offers the impression of hope, honesty and loyalty to the viewer. It also exhibit inner sanctuary and confidence; thus communicates or creates to the viewer the sense of calmness and peace. Down to the legs of the woman is a black painting, which appears like black shoes that she is wearing. The black color of these shoes communicates to the viewer about the power and authority. The black color can also imply submission because some experts argue that when a woman is wearing a black garment or shoes, the black to them implies submission to a man. The second art work which is written Sara Lighting is another artistic feature, which offers varied impressions to the viewer. First, the wall where the words are written has a smooth surface which glitters. In the middle of the wall is word written in block letters ‘Sara Lightening’ and immediately other words follows, which is ‘Courtney, Waiting Room, 2012, oil on canvas. This style of writing letters in block letters in the typography way is the core component of the design. Thus, it offers the reader or the viewer an insight or understanding the heritage behind the art work. It is one way through which the artists pass information to the viewers; thus making them to have a feeling of knowing more about what is inside the room. Axel and Nina (230) argue that one way of describing the technique of the

History and Development of W Retreat & Spa Case Study

History and Development of W Retreat & Spa - Case Study Example He was responsible for looking after the music affairs of the resort. In 2011, the resort appointed Marcus Reinders as the Managing Director of the resort, Mauro Gomez as the Chef Executive, Jennà © Lombardo as the Fashion Director of the resort and Joseph Boroski as the Director of Cocktail Culture. The resort was voted as the best by Lonely Planet Magazine in 2012. Nikolaj Retpen replaced Mauro Gomez as the Chef Executive and DJ Truck was appointed as the resident DJ of the resort (Etihad Holidays, 2012).   W Retreat & Spa – the Maldives, cast away in the blue waters of the Indian Ocean, lies dexterously in the immaculate beauty of Fesdu Island. With a perfect weather, as well as a never-ending sunshine, the spa is an ideal water sports playground and retreat (Flyer Talk, 2009). Below the surface of the hotel lie clear waters where residents can observe sea turtles as well as the starfish poses, whereby they can take pictures. From Malà ©, the capital city of the Maldives, people must fly in a seaplane in order to reach the small Fesdu Island. The luxurious resort is a small but jawdroppingly picturesque 25-minute seaplane journey from the town of Malà ©. Unlike many island spas, the travelers are lucky there are no such things as bridges because, apart from the guests and staff of the spa, this part of Indian Ocean is uninhabited. However, people should make no mistake as taking a trip to this tropical heaven is far from roughing it. The hotel’s bi-level beachfront rooms roost on soft sand. The rooms also have a constant supply of warm water taken straight from the Indian Ocean. It also includes smart amenities such as sundecks, private plunge pools along with outdoor rainforest showers. All these were made possible by the fact that the hotel is surrounded by an ocean (Asia Web Direct, 2013).

Harrods Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Harrods - Essay Example There is no denying the fact that every person is supposed to visit Harrods when in London. Harrods is an integral part of the essentially British culture and taste and has an image for luxury, which would take nothing less than an act passed by parliament or a civil war to change or alter. However, aligning Harrods with tradition and heritage does not mean that the brand is old fashioned in its approach towards business. For Harrods it is all about retaining its traditional associations with luxury, while continually redefining the image in consonance with the latest, the best and the most coveted in fashion and design. It would not be wrong to say that Harrods do qualifies to be labelled as one of the world’s most prestigious luxury store and the store is well aware of the fact that it takes a continual dedication to and cognizance of the needs and aspirations of its high end customers to retain this status. Harrods offers a massive range of brands and designers to its fashi on savvy customers. Thus Harrods is the right place for anyone who is passionate about fashion, who wants everything under one roof and who is not willing to compromise when it comes to comfort and luxury. Harrods places emphasis on the ability of its personnel to get to know the choices and aspirations of its customers. .

Art Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 41

Art - Essay Example This blackboard is painted in black with some writings inside, and this creates attention to the viewer. On the left side below the blackboard is a chair, which seems to have been used in the ancient times. The chair is well decorated and design in a manner that creates attention to the viewer. On the right side is a cupboard and near to it is woman standing near to the cupboard. Additionally, on the forefront of the cupboard is a woman wearing a blue dress, which is not actually a dress but a painting decorated on the body; thus making it appear like a blue dress. The blue color offers the impression of hope, honesty and loyalty to the viewer. It also exhibit inner sanctuary and confidence; thus communicates or creates to the viewer the sense of calmness and peace. Down to the legs of the woman is a black painting, which appears like black shoes that she is wearing. The black color of these shoes communicates to the viewer about the power and authority. The black color can also imply submission because some experts argue that when a woman is wearing a black garment or shoes, the black to them implies submission to a man. The second art work which is written Sara Lighting is another artistic feature, which offers varied impressions to the viewer. First, the wall where the words are written has a smooth surface which glitters. In the middle of the wall is word written in block letters ‘Sara Lightening’ and immediately other words follows, which is ‘Courtney, Waiting Room, 2012, oil on canvas. This style of writing letters in block letters in the typography way is the core component of the design. Thus, it offers the reader or the viewer an insight or understanding the heritage behind the art work. It is one way through which the artists pass information to the viewers; thus making them to have a feeling of knowing more about what is inside the room. Axel and Nina (230) argue that one way of describing the technique of the

Harrods Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Harrods - Essay Example There is no denying the fact that every person is supposed to visit Harrods when in London. Harrods is an integral part of the essentially British culture and taste and has an image for luxury, which would take nothing less than an act passed by parliament or a civil war to change or alter. However, aligning Harrods with tradition and heritage does not mean that the brand is old fashioned in its approach towards business. For Harrods it is all about retaining its traditional associations with luxury, while continually redefining the image in consonance with the latest, the best and the most coveted in fashion and design. It would not be wrong to say that Harrods do qualifies to be labelled as one of the world’s most prestigious luxury store and the store is well aware of the fact that it takes a continual dedication to and cognizance of the needs and aspirations of its high end customers to retain this status. Harrods offers a massive range of brands and designers to its fashi on savvy customers. Thus Harrods is the right place for anyone who is passionate about fashion, who wants everything under one roof and who is not willing to compromise when it comes to comfort and luxury. Harrods places emphasis on the ability of its personnel to get to know the choices and aspirations of its customers. .

Enviromental Factors Essay Example for Free

Enviromental Factors Essay The four external factors that help organizations achieve optimal function are funding sources, non cash revenues, clients or consumers, and competitors. These four external factors are important to every organization as this is what keeps the organization going. If an organization was to lose any of these factors listed above the organization may not stay at optimal function. â€Å"The six internal factors that help organizations achieve optimal function are organizational purpose, mission, philosophy, organizational planning, organizational operations, human resources, technological resources, and financial resources. †(The six internal factors listed above are what keeps and organization strong and running. These factors cover all aspects of the organization and make sure the organization is on track with the rest of the team members of that same organization. This also helps the organization achieve their goals and be able to meet their needs more efficiently. The factors I felt were most important were clients or consumers, competitors, funding sources, and organizational planning. Every organization needs clients or consumers or their organization would fail, as well every organization needs competition to be far. Funding sources are always important as they help fund and bring money in. Organizational planning can go a long way, if the right person is doing the planning. With careful organizational planning and organization can still be run and be successful. Reference Kettner, P. M. (1993). Acheiving Excellence in the Mangement of Human Services Organizations. Hauppauge, NY: AllynBacon.

Health and illness: Social and biological constructs

Health and illness: Social and biological constructs Define both health and illness as social and biological constructs. Examine the ways in which both constructs differ in your answer make reference to health patterns in two contrasting cultures The everyday absence of disease or illness is known as our health (Bilton et al 2002). Health is simply a biological description of our bodies, and if something is not right, then we deem ourselves ill (Bilton et al 2002). There is understood to be two views on health and illness, one being the biological and the other sociological. Biological views of our health looks at our bodies through the biomedical model of health, this is used by health professionals in the diagnoses and treatment of a disease (Bilton et al 2002). If a person is diagnosed with an illness, it can be treated by forms or medicines, therapies, such as physiotherapy, or by surgery (Bilton et al 2002). The biomedical model looks at our body in different ways and it is understood that the mind and the body can be treated differently; this is referred to as mind/body dualism. Plus the body is liked to a machine, meaning it can be repaired, the doctor being the engineer that repairs it (Nettleton 2006). Because of the ability to diagnose illnesses and recommend treatment, the health profession hold a high power status, along with the dominance of the health industry (Bilton et al 2002). Society has been entrenched with this power held by a health professional, we have become dependent on going to seek medical advice because of their experience on the understanding of being ill and letting them decide whether treatment is needed (Bilton et al 2002). Doctors comprehend that health and illness is not a shared by their patients, so education and expensive advertisements attempt to promote awareness and symptoms. The Biomedical model is criticised by socialist McKeown (1976) were he argued that improved hygiene, sanitation and nutrition have been important social improvements of health (McKeown 1976 in Parry 2010). Furthermore Illich (1975) argues that modern medicine is iatrogenic, meaning it creates rather than cures disease (Illich 1975 in Parry 2010). Marxist (1972) theories also argue that the p rominence of the medical model removes the attention away from social causes of disease (Marxist 1972 in Parry 2010, Adams et al 2002). In contrast to the biomedical model we also have the sociological model of health, it is understood that this considers the social origins and influences on disease (Bilton et al 2002). The social model of health considers the environment, social and behavioural factors into consideration. The social model has a long history, from influences such as urbanisation and industrialisation (Wainwright 2007). Likewise material deprivation plays a fundamental role in the cause of disease (Wainwright 2007). This is because the poor may be refused or not have the knowledge to access to goods and services for health. Providing clean water, good housing and an adequate food supply can contribute to a person being healthier (Wainwright 2007). It is claimed that if a person is working in a job that is strenuous then they are more likely to catch disease and become ill (Wainwright 2007). It is also understood that working class people have a higher mortality rate than those in the other classes (Wa inwright 2007, Parry 2010). This could be due to the working class living in industrialised areas or highly populated areas as the spread of disease is more common (Bilton et al 2002). Likewise work related accidents are more prone to people working in industrialised areas (Bilton et al 2002, Wainwright 2007). Health education can play a role in improving the health of people, if people can understand how leading unhealthy lifestyles can contribute to illness and disease then maybe this will turn them away from the unhealthy lifestyle (Bilton et al 2002, Parry 2010). Some forms of an unhealthy lifestyle could be smoking, eating fatty foods or lacking physical activity (Sanna 2006). The social model of health also suggests that disability is driven upon an impaired person as a result of the way society is organised (Oliver and Sapey 1999). Suggesting a person with an impairment has become unable to remain in the community due to the social and physical environment stopping them conti nuing to lead an independent life (Oliver and Sapey 1999). In comparison the culture in China have a different view on the health of the body. This is understood to be the body is in good health when it is in total harmony, this referring to the Yin and Yang (Wong 2008), factors such as the environment influence this imbalance (Wong 2008). To restore the balance, traditional remedial practises are used; an example of this is herbal tea (Wong 2008, Holtz 2008). The Chinese government have a laissez-flair policy for health care in rural areas, they also utilise a pay as you go type scheme for when a person visits a hospital or clinic (Holtz 2008, Wong 2008). People in urban areas can also have government health insurance which aims to provide more access to health care and better technologies (Holtz 2008). Currently the Chinese government have invested heavily on improving public health by modifying and enlarging disease prevention units, supply control centres and disaster relief in some of the countryà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s major cities (Holtz 2 008). Mental health is one of Chinaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s major concerns; this is due to the rapid social and economic changes, financial losses, gambling, extramarital affairs, family violence, divorce and raises in substance abuse (Holtz 2008). Furthermore unemployment and the widening gap between the wealthy and the poor are having an effect on the Chinese populationà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s mental health (Holtz 2008). Mexico has a range of packages available for its residents to enable them to access health care (Holtz 2008); this includes the social security institution which provides coverage for all medical care and prescriptions (Holtz 2008). Also the social security system, which covers workers, is made up of several agencies and is funded by employers, employees and the government (Holtz 2008). Relationship failures, imbalances with food, water, air and temperature add to the causes of illness in Mexico (Holtz 2008). Clean water has been a challenge for Mexico as this is needed to prevent illness and maintaining health (Holtz 2008). It is understood by some that illness is caused as a failure to relate to god (Holtz 2008) and due to the high costs in health care in Mexico; there are spiritual and physical healers that use traditional technics (Holtz 2008). The Curanderos, are believed to be chosen by god to heal people (Holtz 2008). Yerberos specialize in using herbs and spices for treatment (Holtz 2008). Sobadors use massage therapy to try and correct muscle imbalance (Holtz 2008). Parteras are midwife like, women only, who have been trained as a birth attendant by other family members or friends this is cheaper to pay for than a physician (Holtz 2008).

Elian Gonzalez Should Stay In The U.s. :: essays research papers

Dear Rosa Delauro,After reading many articles in the newspapers and magazines that all state, 6 year old Elian Gonzalez has been in the middle of an international tug-of-war since he was found on Thanksgiving Day. Clinging to an inner tube at sea for two days drifting after his family and him were trying to escape from Cuba for freedom. I have decided that it is the right thing for little Elian to stay in the United States. The phone rings: "Your 6-year old son has just been found in the ocean, shipwrecked, clinging to an inner tube. His mother drowned. He is now in Miami hospital." Do you respond? "I’ll be there as soon as I possibly can." or "Send him back to me. I demand it." Elian’s biological father Juan Gonzalez was asked again and again. Why he didn’t go to Miami to see his son. He didn’t answer the question all he demanded was that his son be returned to him, finally threatening the Miami relatives with whom Elian is staying with. Juan says his son is the subject of not only kidnapping but also child abuse. If your son was kidnapped and abused, and the U.S. attorney general publicly said you were able to come see him. Would you stay home? Well Juan Gonzalez is staying home. Why does he lack true affection for the his son? Is he one of those political simpletons so colored with Fidelism that he would rather let his abused son fail than give the slightest political advance to the U.S. to see him. Should Elian be trusted to such a man like his father? Juan lacks the abilities to provide even the basics for Elian. That is, food, security, justice, freedom and the right to be happy. I think that Elian’s father should not be trusted with his son because he can’t even come to the U.S. to see how his son is. If any man in there right mind were able to leave Cuba to come see their child they would drop ever thing for them. Elian shouldn’t be trusted with a man who demands his son be brought back to Cuba and can’t give him food, security, justice, freedom and the right to be happy. When Elian was asked if he wanted to be with his father he said "He cares for his father but he would like his father to be here with him.

Macbeth : The Tragedy :: essays research papers

Many people believe that Shakespeare's plays all have a tragedy to them. There are very good arguments that support this theory. Macbeth is one of the many tragic plays that Shakespeare has written. There are many incidents that take place in the play of Macbeth, which prove that this is a tragic play. There are the murders of many innocent people. There is the murder of King Duncan, who is killed by Macbeth. There is the murder of Banquo, which is set up by Macbeth. There is the murder of Macduff's wife and son, which is also set up by Macbeth. These meaningless killings are what make Macbeth a tragic story. The first tragic murder in the play was that of King Duncan. Duncan was a respected man by all in Scotland. Duncan had no enemies within his kingdom. He was a good leader and good father to his sons and to Macbeth as well. People were shocked to discover the murder of Duncan had taken place. Duncan was liked by everyone in Scotland, which made it hard for the people of Scotland to come up with a conclusion as to why Duncan was murdered. This is best summarized by Banquo's reaction towards Duncan's death,"†¦ Fears and scruples shake us. In the great hand of God I stand, and thence against the undivulged pretense I fight†¦" here Banquo is saying that no one person can be suspected for committing this crime and that this murder has a hidden purpose (II, iii, l. 131-133). Duncan was killed for a very terrible reason. Macbeth killed Duncan because Macbeth was greedy and was desperate to be become king. Macbeth wanted to be in control and knew that if he killed Duncan h e would be able to receive it. An innocent man is killed because of the greed of another man. Such a tragedy is inhuman. Others have also been killed because of Macbeth. The second tragic murder in the play was the brutal killing of Banquo. Banquo was an innocent man that had no flaws whatsoever. Banquo was always kind to everyone and respectful to Macbeth, even though he knew Macbeth killed Duncan. Banquo was also a loving father. Banquo had a son named Fleance whom he loved very much. When Macbeth sent the murderers out to kill Banquo and Fleance, Banquo sacrificed his own life so that Fleance could get away.

Annotated Bibliography Example

Annotated Bibliography Reina Garza Diana Hollinger, Russ Sperling, JoAnn Ford (2009, november 5). the state of music education in schools. (M. Cavanaugh, Interviewer) * When test scores go down in math and reading, the emphasis is put on those basic subjects to the detriment of other so-called elective courses.And now the combination of standardized testing and budget cuts have put art and music classes in the highest of high-risk categories,† (par 1) * â€Å"when you speak with great educators, and look behind the test scores, the lessons learned in studying music, learning to play an instrument, playing in a band, learning to read music, all provide a richness to a child's education that will last a lifetime,† (par 1). * Because of the declining math and reading scores, it is causing the students to double up on classes. This then does not give them time to take any form of music education. par 12). * â€Å"You cannot cut something for one or two years and say, oh, we ’ll bring it back next year because the cuts are long term,† (par 16). * We still have about half the number of music students in music education in K-through-12. And we’ve never fully recovered and partly that’s because we start cutting the things that are the least visible first, which would be elementary music and then junior high music because the things that are most visible are the marching band at the football game†¦and the choir at, you know, at graduation and those sorts of things in high school.But it’s like cutting off the roots; the flower only lasts just so long,† (par 16 ;amp; 18). * Some schools outsource their music programs. This then makes the teacher work with the students after school. Diana says, â€Å"we can’t just do a little music. Let’s outsource this and sing some songs after school. That’s not how you teach. You don’t teach algebra that way, you don’t teach somebody to read th at way, you don’t teach science that way. You cannot teach anything that way.So it’s very important that you have a structured, you know, step-by-step education so that students have access. Understanding how to read music and to sing music and to play music is access. It’s social justice,† (par 30). Harken, J. V. (2003, august 20). budgets cut student expeirence . Retrieved may 24, 2012, from CNN: http://articles. cnn. com/2003-08-13/politics/sprj. sch. cuts_1_budget-cuts-music-or-science-math? _s=PM:EDUCATION * â€Å"If a student's talents lie in art, or music or science, they lose out,† (par 8). Schools believe that math and reading are the most important subjects, so if the students have declining test scores, then all the other programs are cut while math and reading/English are funded even more. (par 7 & 8) *â€Å"For many kids, that's why they come to school, for the band or chorus or sports. † (par 18). * Students interested in de veloping business or music skills would have to look outside the school for programs or private tutors they go to on their own time, Johnson said. People have to compensate. If the student can't afford it, well, that's the downside to this situation. â€Å"† (par 25). Houck, Olivia. (2009). 2009-10: Against Cutting Art and Music Programs in Schools. Retrieved may 24, 2012, from morrison institute: http://morrisoninstitute. asu. edu/young-stewards-of-public-policy/essays/2009-10-the-voting-problem * â€Å"Overall, reports have shown that the percentage of kids with access to music has declined 50% in the past five years,† (par 1). â€Å"The study of music, theatre, and other forms of art have been shown to stimulate other parts of student’s minds and even keep them out of gangs and other harmful situations,† (par 1). *â€Å"â€Å"95% percent of Americans believe that music is a key-component in a child’s well-rounded education, 80% percent of resp ondents agreed that music makes the participants smarter; 78% believe that learning a musical instrument helps students perform better in other subject areas; and 88% believe participation in music helps teach children discipline† (Hurley 3),† (par 1). â€Å"â€Å"Within two to three years, every school that cuts arts showed a decrease in morale and attendance and an increase in vandalism and disruptions, and within three years most of them had to add extensive disciplinary staff to account for the problems that were created by not providing the full range of experiences that human beings need† (Hurley 2).† (par 3). Nelson, TJ. (2005, march 5). dumbing down, the dwindling funding of the arts. Retrieved may 24, 2012, from worldmusiccentral. org: http://worldmusiccentral. org/article. php/2005030922083613 â€Å"One Ipswich high school senior, Reeve Pierson, calculated the participation in his school and found that out of 629 students 445 participated in the music and art programs,† (par 6). * â€Å"†Students with coursework/experience in music performance and music appreciation scored higher on the SAT: students in music performance scored 57 points higher on the verbal and 41 points higher on the math, and students in music appreciation scored 63 points higher on verbal and 44 points higher on the math, than did students with no arts participation†. — College-Bound Seniors National Report: Profile of SAT Program Test Takers.Princeton, NJ: The College Entrance Examination Board, 2001† (par 8). * â€Å"â€Å"Secondary students who participated in band or orchestra reported the lowest lifetime and current use of all substances (alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs). † — Texas Commission on Drug and Alcohol Abuse Report. Reported in Houston Chronicle, January 1998† (par 9) * â€Å"*Thirty-six out of 57 states and territories in the US plan to slash funding for culture. Estimates suggest tha t funds will be reduced from $355 million to $274 million in the 2004 fiscal year according to Americans for the Arts. Florida governor, Jeb Bush, reduced his state’s arts funding from $28 million to $5. 9 million. Colorado’s arts budget shriveled to a mere $200,000. † (par 13). * â€Å"There’s something utterly captivating in listening to the musical rendition of â€Å"She’ll Be Coming Round the Mountain† by a bunch of first-graders on kazoos and percussion instruments. What kind of society will we be without the squawky notes of â€Å"Greensleeves† emanating from an open window as a fourth-grader practices on a black, plastic recorder?What kind of cultural identity do we preserve and pass on without a music education? What happens to us if we become a country without a culture, without a voice, without a song? † (par 16). * â€Å"I guess Air Force One should invest in a good sound system and a CD of Sousa marches, because a f uture president might be stepping of the plane into the adulation of crowds, not to the strains of â€Å"Hail to the Chief† played by a school orchestra but to a bunch of kids holding up multiplication table flashcards,† (par 17). music Statistics/music advocacy quotations. n. d. ). Retrieved may 24, 2012, from heritageweb. org: http://www. heritageweb. org/~sanderson/MusicAdvocacyStatsandQuotes. pdf | | * Students with good rhythmic ability can more easily detect and differentiate between patterns in math, music, science, and the visual arts.-â€Å"Rhythm seen as key to man's evolutionary development,† TCAMS Professional resource Center, 2000. * A 1997 study of elementary students in arts-based programs concluded that students' math test scores rose as their time in arts education classes increased. â€Å"Arts Exposure and Class Performance,† Phi Delta Kappan, October, 1998. * The arts are recognized as a core subject in the Goals 2000: Educate America Ac t approved by both houses of Congress in 1994. -National Education Goals Panel * â€Å"In every successful business. there is one budget line that never gets cut. It's called â€Å"Product Development† – and it's the key to any company's future growth. Music education is critical to the product development of this nation's most important resource – our children. -John Sykes – President, VH1 * â€Å"Music is about communication, creativity, and cooperation, and by studying music in school, students have the opportunity to build on these skills, enrich their lives, and experience the world from a new perspective. † -Bill Clinton, Former President of the United States of America * â€Å"The arts are an essential element of education, just like reading, writing, and arithmetic. music, dance, painting, and theater are all keys that unlock profound human understanding and accomplishment. † -William Bennett, Former US Secretary of Education |

Poverty in Canada Essay

Despite having one of the highest  standards of living among all the developed nations, and despite being voted numerous times in recent years by the United Nations as the best country in the world in which to live, experts agree that poverty is prevalent in Canada today. Unfortunately, that is more or less where the agreement ends. Exactly how prevalent and how serious a problem poverty is in Canada is an open question that has been hotly debated for the last 10 years. There have been two times in the past 300 years when economic structural changes have occurred in the world that have been so massive and so far-reaching, that the impact on societies has been nothing short of monumental. The first time was in the Industrial Revolution which began in the early 1700s and caused massive societal transformations, especially in the western world, changing life from agrarian-based societies to industrial-based societies. The second time was in the early 1980s with the beginning of the â€Å"Information Revolution.† Today, a rapid, world-wide, economic transformation is taking place that is changing our societies from industrial-based societies to information-based societies, the 3rd wave. These changes are part of a greater phenomenon called â€Å"globalization† . The improvement in technology lead to a desire to make trades with other countries, and therefore allowing foreign companies to sell in Canada and thereby compete with Canadian companies, and vice versa (â€Å"Laisser faire, laisser passer† – Adam Smith).This increased competition lead to ever greater pressures on Canadian companies to reduce their costs of producing goods. Companies closed down and went looking in third world countries because labour is cheaper. At the same time, technology was replacing human labour; employees lost their jobs, being replaced by machines that could do the job faster and more efficiently. This eliminated the manufacturing, low-to-medium skills, well-paying jobs, which didn’t require a very high level of education. While now, our labour markets into high-skills, high-paying jobs on one end of the spectrum, and low-skills, low-paying jobs  on the other end. Therefore, one way would be for people have to get a better education to get a better job, get better money, and get themselves out of poverty, which runs along the views of Plato. But who are the poor in Canada? Are there any identifiable persons or groups who are more likely to be poor than others? Is age a factor? What about gender, race? What about geographical factors? Does living in certain parts of the country make you more likely to be poor than living in other parts? According to Smith, there is in every society an absolute minimum standard of living which consists of survival necessities (shelter, food and clothes), plus additional non-survival necessities as determined by each society’s customs (such as owning a linen shirt and a pair leather shoes in his day). Together these necessities meet not only a person’s basic survival needs, but also allow that person to participate in society with dignity and without the shame and stigma often attached to being poor. To allow any person to live below this minimum standard would, to use Smith’s term, render that society â€Å"indecent.† The following studies have been made by Kevin Lee from the Canadian Council on Social Development: â€Å"1. From 1990 to 1995 the total number of poor people in Canada increased dramatically. During this period, Canada’s total population increased by 6.1 percent, whereas the population of those considered poor increased by 28.6 percent, far outstripping the overall growth. 2. Poverty is largely an urban phenomenon. In 1990, 66.6 percent of the poor population in Canada lived in metropolitan centers. 70 percent of all poor people live in Montreal, Vancouver or Toronto. Between 1990 and 1995, poverty rates rose in every city examined. 3. Poverty rates varied substantial between cities. Cities in Quebec had the highest poverty rates while cities in southern Ontario had the lowest. For example, Montreal had the highest rate in Canada, 2.5 times higher than Oakville, which had the lowest rate. 4. Certain population groups were more likely to be poor than others. These included: * Single-parent families, whose poverty rate was 2.45 times higher than the average. * Aboriginal persons, whose poverty rate was 2.26 times higher than the average. * Recent immigrants, whose poverty rate was 2.17 times higher than the average. * Visible minorities, whose poverty rate was 1.53 times higher than the average. * Persons with disabilities, whose poverty rate was 1.47 times higher than the average. 5. Poverty rates varied considerably according to age and gender. The young and the elderly are more likely to experience poverty. The incidence of poverty declines with age until age 45 to 54, after which it rises again. Women in every age groups are more likely to live in poverty, and women seniors above age 75 are the most like of any group. Among males, boys up to age 14 had the highest poverty rate. Children and youth made up one third of the total poor population. 6. Poverty rates varied based on education levels. As expected, in every city examined persons with less than high school education were more likely to be poor than those with a post-secondary level education. However, at least 6 percent of post-secondary graduates in every city lived in poverty, and in six cities that rate was over 20 percent. 7. Poverty rates varied based on occupational skills levels. As expected, persons with lower skills levels had a higher incidence of poverty, however  high-skills workers still had high poverty rates in some cities. For example, in Montreal almost 20 percent of high-skills workers were living in poverty as compared to 4.5 percent in Gloucester or Burlington. 8. The average income for working-age families in Canada was $60,400. 9. The average income for working-age â€Å"poor† families in Canada was $14,500.† Taken from http://www.ccsd.ca/pubs/2000/up/ But another question prevails here: How should we help them? Canada has been using a lot of different methods to try and help them. We can find numerous shelters for the homeless, which also provides them with food and water. All this is free for them, but it’s not helping them get out of poverty, it is like a breathing device for them. Without it, they would die. There are other people who do have a home, as humble as it might be, but they are having troubles paying for it, since they cannot find a job. The government supplies those people with an amount of money weekly. This is called the Welfare system, but it is not working as well as in Sweden. This may be because the people are taking this money, and instead of spending it on food and vital needs, some of them go and buy cigarettes, alcohol, and drugs. On the other hand, some people are wisely investing it in education, and vital needs. This makes us wonder if our tax money is being spent wisely. Should the government tax the working people to give and income to the non-working people? There are many points of view about this subject. We may think that it is unfair that you are working to help them, without getting anything in return. We may feel like we are being obliged to care for the less well off. But in fact, by giving them little boost, they are helping us back. If they get a chance at a better education, they could get a job, or even open their own company, which would create employment, and in its turn would increase consumption, and make the economy go round. We would all benefit from this. If this starts off, there would be enough jobs for everyone, thus getting the present poor people out of poverty and help the next generation be poverty free. Of course I am exaggerating, there would  never be 0% poverty, but there might be a possibility of a 100% educated population. Once this has been reached, more innovations will be accessible, and the updated Adam Smith wo uld come in play: â€Å"Laisser innover†, also known as R&D. This could help in many ways, a good example would be space technology. The exploration of space has, ever since it began in 1962 with the launch of Yuri Gagarin, been a controversial subject among the peoples of this planet. The controversy surrounds the spending of billions and billions of dollars on the pursuits of space exploration. The thread of the most common argument against space is that there are more pressing problems here on our planet such as pollution, overcrowding, disease, poverty etc. that this money could be spent on. Will taking moneys from space exploration and investing more money in these immediate problems help them? There is no doubt that by investing more in these problems that there will be measurable improvements in all problems. In fact given a conscious effort to spend wisely any problem could be helped. So the question becomes does space exploration help this planet? Can exploring space on its own justify the investment? The most obvious area where space exploration has benefited our immediate lives is right in every ones own living room. The television newscasts which you watch have been more than likely been transmitted via satellite. The satellite has also allowed trans-continental telephone calls, emergency tracking and a host of other uses. These are measurable benefits in the present, but the question begs as to why we spend money on theoretical research on quasars, missions to the moon, and experimental technologies which seem like science fiction to most people. The answer to this question lies in the benefit of space exploration that we see today, that is, in satellite communications. More than thirty years ago when Sputnik was first launched that was deemed a marvel of science and technology, almost science fiction. No one person could foresee the benefits that could be gleaned from the launch of this simple spherical metal ball which bounced radio signals back to earth. The point here is that the investment in this project paid off, in what we see today in the form of TV  news, phone calls and direct broadcasting television. It is important to point out that the Sputnik launch and all other attempts including the American Echo project were good investments but there are space projects which failed miserably such as the Russian attempt at building a Super Booster, now called Energia. Millions of dollars were wasted in this failed project. What I am trying to illustrate is that there are good and bad ideas, good and bad investments not only in space exploration but in any field of science. This is what drives the advancement of knowledge. Space exploration in the broadest sense gives us the future. It is an investment not for the short term but for the long term. It allows us to study different environments, allows technology to develop and allows ideas to be tested. No one can argue that Sputnik was not a wise investment so how can we possibly know that sending missions to the moon is not. The responsibility lies with us to determine what is important and worth pursuing.