Electronic Privacy in the Workplace

Introduction Introduction of the internet has brought a host of changes especially in the manner in which information flows from one point to another. At a click of the mouse, one is able to connect with the world and share any kind of information. Coupled with social networks, these connections further expose personal information that could be accessed by unauthorized people.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Electronic Privacy in the Workplace specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Besides promoting business management, the current technology allows employers to monitor their employees and even access their private data, raising concerns over information security of such people. Is it lawful for employers to monitor employees? Is there law that governs employee privacy? This research paper explores the issue of employee privacy, detailing among others, workplace surveillance, reasons for surveillance, findings against surveillance, related cases, dilemma and the way forward. Workplace surveillance Surveillance is defined as the ability of the management to track, monitor and record personal characteristics, performance and overall behavior of all or some employees at a specific time or as a continuous management process. According to Ball 2010, workplace surveillance mainly occurs as a way of limiting the accessibility of different hierarchies within an organization and to the business or organization itself (p. 88). Notably, this topic has remained debatable within the public domain since 1980s. Throughout this time, there are several researches that have been carried out to ascertain the impact of monitoring employees with regard to their behavior and personal information accessibility (Ball, 2010). Although surveillance and monitoring have been used interchangeably to mean the same thing by the public, organizational sociologists believe that surveillance is intertwined with politics, power and resistance while monitoring is associated with only direct supervision by the employer. However, the main concern has been the manner in which monitoring is applied in organizational management as it may have detrimental impact on the business (Ball, 2010). As insinuated above, surveillance at workplace may seek to discover personal information or particular behavior among employees.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More As a result, information collected through different surveillance methods is usually used in different ways. For instance, an employer may make conclusions about the performance of an employer, which may have impact both at workplace and outside (Luragesi, 2010). In order to carry out effective workplace surveillance, there are several techniques which have been found to be effective in allowing managers to access employees’ private info rmation and monitor their behavior while they are working. These include but not limited to mystery shopping, mobility tracking, CCTV, computer and telephone logging, and electronic recruitment (Ball, 2010). These techniques are commonly applied in service industries although other industries like manufacturing do monitor employees at workplaces. With no doubt, massive use of these surveillance techniques has been augmented by rise in internet usage around the globe with an approximated 27 million employees being monitored in the world. Low resistance to these practices is common in gabling, logistics and contact-center industries where there are no unions to sensitize and advocate for employee privacy (Luragesi, 2010). In general workplace surveillance can be viewed from two perspectives. It is believed to be a normal practice as employees expect a review of their performance, whereabouts and set objectives. On the other hand, extreme usage raises controversies. From the employeeâ €™s perspective While there is support for surveillance in some places of work, the magnitude and overall impact of such approaches on organizational management remains a major point of concern (Ball, 2010). It is true that workplace surveillance is important in productivity and asset management, keeping business secrets and guarding against legal liabilities. However, excessive and unnecessary surveillance has a wide range of effects on employees. The first concern is that surveillance heightens the risk of privacy compromise when a third party is allowed to handle employees’ private information. In some cases, employees may feel threatened especially when information about their physical whereabouts is exposed to their employers (Ball, 2010). Another argument against workplace surveillance is that it may lead to â€Å"functional creep†. (Ball, 2010).The reason behind this postulate is the fact that some surveillance technologies may reveal too much information th at could be unnecessary. In other words, it is possible to employ certain methods of employee monitoring and collect unintended information.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Electronic Privacy in the Workplace specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In this regard, it is important for employers to avoid extending surveillance practices to such levels without seeking approval and consent of respective employees. This is quite essential especially in cases where the information being sought is to form a decision making basis like promotion and pay-rise (Ball, 2010). Additionally, the use of surveillance may lead to â€Å"faking† of behavior and character among employees. When a person discovers that he or she is being monitored, there is usually a higher tendency of behavior camouflage so as not to reveal what the â€Å"monitor† could be looking for. Depending on the nature of the surveillance techn ique, quantity versus quality of work done may be a point of concern among employees and the benefits of working as a team compared to individual efforts (Ball, 2010). This may breed â€Å"anticipatory conformity† as employees may become docile and less commitment to their tasks. Apart from these reasons, surveillance usually puts employer’s trust at risk especially when the process is not carried out in a participatory manner. Lastly, excessive surveillance may contribute to the emergence of behaviors and practices that were to be controlled. This is because employees tend to subvert these efforts through manipulation of the time and way of measuring surveillance boundaries. Some of these manipulative ways may include brief answers to customers, pretence and misleading customers by giving irrelevant and incorrect information. Furthermore, monitored call-center workers may conspire with other workers to generate required information (Ball, 2010). From the employer†™s perspective A common form of surveillance mentioned above is e-mail monitoring, which seems tiresome but effective to several employers. First, employers believe that monitoring of employees has full capacity to reduce legal liabilities in an organization. As a known effective and cheap way of communicating through the internet, e-mails offer an opportunity for employees to share messages which may be deemed as damaging to the employer or another third party (Snyder, 2010). In such cases, employers are held legally responsible for any form of damage that may arise from these e-mails.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This risk can be avoided by monitoring various messages sent by employees to other people. An employer who fails to prevent such misconduct out of ignorance or lack of information is always liable for the incurred damages (Smith Tabak, 2009). Another view for workplace surveillance is that it allows a company to protect its assets. The first concern over company property is that some e-mails may undermine the intellectual property of a company and other assets that are not tangible. For instance, e-mail messaging may allow a customer to attach sensitive information about the firm, say, patenting information, pricing decisions, customer records, trading secretes and other sensitive information. It therefore suffices to mention that efforts by any firm to prevent the spread of such information are vital in safeguarding the interests of the company (Smith Tabak, 2009). Additionally, tracking of e-mails allows employers to manage effective use and application of several network resour ces. Due to bulky e-mails, certain network systems may be unable to handle the existing traffic. This monitoring therefore prevents overstressing of the company’s network by people who are unauthorized and add no value to the success of a firm. Moreover, virulent messages are common when e-mails are used to perform other duties apart from the known work. Apart from damaging computers, virulent messages and links also compromise the security of the firm. Since the available equipment was acquired to perform certain duties, it is important for employers to guard against any form of careless communication (Smith Tabak, 2009). Lastly, employers affirm that monitoring of employee emails promotes high productivity for any firm. It is believed that most employers take this step towards the prevention of loss of productivity perpetuated by excessive sending of e-mails (Smith Tabak, 2009). Even though email monitoring has the potential of adding value to ones business, analysts argu e that excessive motoring can promote the reverse process towards productivity. With the use of e-mails having become highly prolific, some employers limit e-mail accessibility among employees until their addresses are vetted and approved by the person in charge (Snyder, 2010). Potential solutions to the dilemma In finding a solution towards the dilemma which exists between employers and employees over workplace surveillance, it is important to double emphasize the fact that most of the negative effects enumerated by psychologists and other theorists focus on the manner in which the process is carried out. A balance between work and managers’ involvement in surveillance affects productivity in different ways. Additionally, organizational characteristics can determine the ultimate impact of implementing workplace surveillance strategies. Aspects of design generally tell the availability of choices to employees with regard to time and pace of assigned duties and responsibilitie s (Ball, 2010). Constant surveillance is considered more harmful to employees than intermittent approach. Furthermore, there has to be a correlation between the task and the surveillance technique being employed. As such, easy tasks require easy monitoring practices and vice versa. Group surveillance is also less stressful compared to cases where employees are monitored singly. Nevertheless, this has to be done by sensitive individuals who have a psychological concern over the impact of surveillance. Another important solution towards the dilemma is adopting a supervisory style and observing performance fluctuations. It has been found out that rating of employees based on monitored figures dictates the mind and future decisions made by employers. In other words, monitored results implant a negative attitude that later affects employers’ management skills (Ball, 2010). As a response towards negative employer attitude, most workers resort to resistance as the only option of ret aliating. It is therefore important for employers to be considerate and appreciate the fact that employees may want to mingle with those under constant surveillance. In making surveillance more acceptable and relevant, it has to be balanced with several factors that promote feedback like coaching and appraisal. Heavy workload done under surveillance generates low output as it results into stress and inability to achieve expected results (Ball, 2010). Additionally, punishment for those who perform below required standards may not always work in promoting performance potential of employees. Correction to committed mistakes is essential in ensuring that employees understand relevant steps other than daily monitoring. The monitoring criteria should also be well communicated to employees through training to allow them meet their set goals with a lot of ease. Employees should also be involved in the designing of monitoring systems. This makes them acceptable with the organization and prom tes the understanding of the need for monitored information together with how it is stored (Ball, 2010). Keeping the trust between employer and employee Trust is a very important ingredient in effective management at any given level of hierarchy. It therefore follows that lack of trust can be detrimental in an organization. In understanding the concept of trust, it is important to underscore the significance of establishing job-related relationships (Ball, 2010). In other words, trust stems from well nurtured relationships between employers and employees of a particular organization. Attaining set goals and objectives could be an uphill task if employers do not focus on establishing solid relationships that are well rooted on trust. Trust paves way for other progressive developments to take place in an organizational setup. There are factors which can affect employer-employee trust. For instance, most employees become suspicious in the wake of downsizing of an organization’s workforce. Since none of the employees could be sure of retaining their posts, many become suspicious about the management, resulting into loss of trust. Threats also contribute to this situation as employees end up feeling insecure working in a particular organization due to strained relationships. In the context of employee privacy, trust is a major point of concern. This is because surveillance has the capability of limiting the existence of trust between employees and employers in a given organization (Ball, 2010). How would an employee feel if he or she learned one morning that the boss was tracking his/her behavior and character? This would definitely result into mistrust and demoralization. As mentioned above, surveillance may send varying messages to different people including lack of trust. Based on the significance of trust in business management, no manager would be willing to nurture strained relationships with employees. Clarity of thought and communication have to domi nate in integrating employee privacy and trust. Monitoring has to be part of the process of strengthening good management relationships rocked on trust (Ball, 2010). By communicating the need of particular information, employees are able to relate with managers freely without the fear of being tracked. Through trust, employers can talk and learn common things about their employees without necessarily employing surveillance techniques. When employers are employed in the designing of a monitoring system, they become more confident to not only interact with colleagues but also with senior management. In general workplace monitoring can either maintain of â€Å"kill† the trust between employers and employees in an organization. Cases and rulings Ontario v. Quon This refers to a United States Supreme Court case revolving around the issue of right of privacy and its application to a government workplace that utilizes electronic communication gadgets (Harding, 2010). The appeal was filed by the city of Ontario which came from a Ninth Circuit verdict arguing that it had breached the provisions of the Fourth Amendment Act of the U.S constitution. It was noted that two police officers had been denied these rights when the city punished them after pager text messages were audited, revealing personal and sexually offensive information. However, the court ruled that the audit in question had been carried out within the context of work and therefore did not infringe the provisions of the 4th amendment that outlaws unreasonable searches and seizures by government officials or law enforcing agents (Harding, 2010). Jeff Quon, a police sergeant officer in Ontario, colleagues and the other people with whom they were found exchanging the messages with had gone ahead and sued the city and pager service providers arguing that the accused had violated both their rights embedded in the supreme law of the land together with an infringement on federal telecommunications laws tha t govern privacy. According to the defense team of the complainant, there had been an agreement between senior officers who had assured them that the text pager would not be put under scrutiny as long as the police officers paid back the fees for extra characters in every month (Harding, 2010). The case was decided based on the reasonableness of the audit, with Justice Anthony Kennedy noting that modern technology was under evolution and therefore he did not consider the implication of underlying issues in the case (Harding, 2010). This decision was however criticized by other justices who argued that the court had not honored the provisions of the 4th Amendment in its ruling. Quon’s decision was expected based on implications of issues that involve employee privacy. This left room for employers and employees to reevaluate parameters needed in workplace surveillance. It gave managers an opportunity to train employees regarding electronic sources and equipment in the context o f privacy rights (Harding, 2010). Employee privacy rights in social networks Social networks have become common in communication across the world. With the emergence of sites like Twitter, MySpace and Facebook among others, many people are at risk of exposing their information to unauthorized individuals. Besides this, there are privacy implications especially when online social networks are discussed in the context of workplace surveillance (Genova, 2009). Many employers have genuine business interests which make them monitor the use of the internet at work place. Among these reasons are: minimization of potential legal exposure, prevent loss of proprietary information and increase business productivity. However, there are numerous employers supporting termination, discipline and failure to hire as a result of employers being present on social networks. With regard to hiring, there are cases where employers have rejected certain candidates for hire based on online information. No f ederal law restricts employers from viewing employees’ private information online (Genova, 2009). Moreover, employers have no right to hack employees’ account to access protected information. Search of online private information is also unwise during hiring unless it is legitimate for the interests of the organization. The California law protects its citizens against privacy infringement of any nature. As a result, employers digging into employees’ privacy after working hours violate these rights and might be accused in a court of law for privacy infringement (Genova, 2009). Conclusion Employee privacy presents a wide range of fascinating issues which revolve around massive advancement in technology. With internet connection, access to private information of employees has become a major point of concern that has to be addressed. Nevertheless, in dealing with issues of surveillance and monitoring of employees, managers ought to be aware of its implications and de trimental effects it may have on the prosperity of a business. Although there could be legitimate reasons to monitor employees, this has to be done in the most acceptable and trusted way. Employees have to be involved in the designing of the monitoring system to enhance inclusivity and trust between employers and employers. References Ball, K. (2010). Workplace Surveillance: an overview. Labor History, 51(1), 87-106. Genova, G. (2009). No Place to play: Current employee privacy Rights in Social Networking Sites. Business Communication Quarterly, 97-103. Harding, J. (2010). City of ontario v. Quon: Electronic privacy in the Workplace. Newsletters, 112-117. Luragesi, N. (2010). Electronic Privacy in the workplace: Transparency and responsibility. International Review of Law, Computes Technology, 24(2), 163-173. Smith, W., Tabak, F. (2009). Monitoring Employee E-mails: Is there Any Room for Privacy? Academy of Management, 33-48. Snyder, J. (2010). E-mail Privacy in workplace. A bound ary Regulation Perspective. Journal of Business Communication, 47(3), 266-294. This research paper on Electronic Privacy in the Workplace was written and submitted by user Trey Love to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

The Definition of Quest in Literature

The Definition of Quest in Literature A quest is an adventurous journey undergone by the main character or protagonist of a story. The protagonist usually meets with and overcomes a series of obstacles, returning in the end with the benefits of knowledge and experience from his quest. There are several elements to a quest in storytelling. Typically, there must be a protagonist, i.e. the quester; a stated reason to go on the quest; a place to go for the quest; challenges along the journey; and sometimes, the  real  reason for the quest - which is disclosed later on during the journey. Examples in Literature Can you think of a favorite novel, movie or play with a strong protagonist ready to go on a quest? Here are a few examples to get you started.  In J.R.R. Tolkiens The Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins is persuaded by the wizard, Gandalf, to set out on a great quest with thirteen dwarves desirous of reclaiming their ancestral home from Smaug, a marauding dragon. L. Frank Baums  The Wonderful Wizard of Oz  features protagonist Dorothy, who is on a quest to find her way back home. In the meantime, shes joined on her journey by the Scarecrow, Tin Woodman and the Cowardly Lion who work together to find their way back to Kansas. Dorothy develops new understanding and self-knowledge during her sojourn of Oz, symbolized through her friends: brains, heart, and courage. In literature that spans more than one volume, such as  J. K. Rowlings  Harry Potter  series, J.R.R. Tolkiens  The Lord of the Rings, or Pierce Browns  Red Rising, there will often be a quest for the protagonist(s) in each volume which are part of the overall quest of the entire series.

International Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 11

International Business - Essay Example Globalization enabled investors to enter new potential regions with innovative business ideas. Today companies, governments, and non-governmental organizations have access to equity fund providers. Numerous equity companies are willing to invest in global market providing international business organizations with human capital and equity capital support. For instance, companies like Hamilton Bradshaw assist international companies by supporting expansion, development, and recapitalization. Changing global economy will certainly demand more equity support and outsourcing help in future. It will promote more entrepreneurs entering the global capital market because the aftermath of the recent recession would persist throughout the next decade. Governmental policies across the world on privatization also have contributed to the emergence of capital market. 2. In order to be competitive in a free global market with no trade barriers and restrictions, a company has to expand its business to international level. In the current business environment of cutthroat competition, a company is forced to seek new potential areas and alternatives for business consistency. To illustrate, the absence of constraints has enabled international business entrepreneurs to enter and dominate domestic markets of any area. If critiques are to b believed, many of the indigenous businesses and small scale or cottage industries are at the verge of extinction. It happens as the international giants come up with machine-made quality products at cheaper cost to acquire the local market. They have advanced technological backup and cost effective mode of business operation that enable them to manufacture products in bulk. In contrast, local business groups rely on conventional strategies and out-dated organizational structures which presumably add to their failure. However, business expansion is not a difficult task for modern organizations as they

Critical Review on experiment by S.Robinson, S. M. Sandstrom Essay

Critical Review on experiment by S.Robinson, S. M. Sandstrom - Essay Example L-dihydroxyphenylalanine that was restored under the influence of endogenous dopamine in DD mice changed mice behavior. They became hypoactive and hypophagic and could carry out complicated tasks that are impossible to implement without both activation and plasticity. "Additional goal of this study was to separate performance factors from cognitive processes as described by Denenberg, Kim and Palmiter (2004)2 It was rather difficult to design the experiments in a proper way because of some things. First, learning, liking and wanting are not alternative behaviors. Second, animals tend to be hypoactive and hyperphagic under the influence of dopamine. Some hypotheses were posited. The one concerning hedonia assumes that "dopamine mediates the sensory pleasure of rewards, such as food"3 (Wise, 2004). The evidence was caused by the observation that dopamine leads to the growing reward consumption. The hypothesis about learning presumes that if we want to make animals associate rewards with special clues we must intake them dopamine. The last hypothesis in respect to wanting supposes that dopamine does not influence the interconnection liking-reward and learning- reward. But it's responsible for "recognition of motivational conditions" (Salamone, 1996) "converting a neutral stimulus into an attractive wanted stimulus. Two experiments were conducted. The object of the experiments is genetically engineered dopamine-deficient (DD) mice. Authors tested influence of endogenous dopamine signaling on mice ability for acquisition of an appetitive T-maze. On the basis of two experiments authors came to the conclusion that dopamine had only an impact on the fact whether the mice want reward in the process of goal-directed behavior. However, mice are absolutely indifferent to dopamine influence in regard to liking and learning about rewards. For the experimental design the doze of endogenous dopamine was very important. Too little as well as too much dopamine interferes with reversal learning. Methods: first experiment had lasted for twenty-three days, the second one - for twenty days with two groups of mice: controlled and under the LD-treated mice. They had to perform their learning, liking and wanting skills by finding rewards in a T-maze, reaching the intersection, making right arm entries, latency to begin consumption and the number of rewards consumed. All these data were thoroughly recorded. At the experiment one which consisted of two phases at first controlled and DD mice under the LD-influence had to find rewards and remember the way to rewards, then rewards were changed and mice had to find a new way to rewards, studying in such a way their learning ability. The number of pieces consumed in the second phase after switching rewards evidence the degree of liking and the speed with which they began consumption showed the degree of wanting. Experiment two was conducted on two mice groups that tested saline-LD or caffeine-LD (caffeine was used as a stimulant) and LD-LD 10 times per day for 20 days. In the first part of the experiment mice received one of substances SAL (saline), CAF (caffeine) or LD. During the second half all mice were injected with LD. Some alternatives were for the assumption that if dopamine did not influence learning ability the mice must behave as LD-treated mice in Phase 1. However, if impact exists

Business to Business Marketing & Supply Chain Management Essay

Business to Business Marketing & Supply Chain Management - Essay Example Significantly, the success of an organisation must be pegged on the supply chain as pasrt of the vital elements in the system structure. Observably, supply chain is often regarded as the process of integrating companies and their operations together with regard to the flow of products, services along with other aspects of modern businesses (Ellis, 2010). Basically, the supply chain process entails the contribution of a supplier, distributer along with an instantaneous customer, and this further incorporates the flow of gods and the services of an organisation. In modern business practices, the supply chain retains its critical importance as it is directly associated with the operational wellbeing of the business (Warkentin, 2003). Correspondingly, this particular discussion will primarily deal with analysing the importance as well as the role of supply chain management in the domain of business-to-business marketing. The paper will also conclude some of the major prevailing issues as sociated with the supply chain management with considerations of two different industries, which will include the Textile Manufacturing Industry of China and Chemical Industry in Singapore in a macro prospective. Supply Chain Management (SCM) is one of the most integral processes in the contemporary business environment. It will not be vague to depict that it is one of major elements, which can directly decide upon the success potentials or failure risks of a company, irrespective of its industrial positioning. SCM is often defined as the management of the flow of goods within any particular business context. It primarily involves the movement of materials or finished goods from one domain of the business to the other in a systematic manner, ensuring time effectiveness in each of the stages involved in the supply chain process. The process of supply chain in the modern day business context also involves the

Importance of Monitoring Assessment Record keeping and Reporting

Importance of Monitoring Assessment Record keeping and Reporting Over the course of the previous 30 years assessment has been a major focus of educational discussion and research. It is generally accepted that assessment is a vital part of a teachers role which needs to be carefully considered. According to Kellough and Kellough (1999, p. 417), Teaching and learning are reciprocal processes that depend on and affect one another. Thus, the assessment component deals with how well the students are learning and how well the teacher is teaching. Haydn (2009 cited in Capel et al 2009 page 329) defines assessment as all those activities which are undertaken by teachers, and others, to measure the effectiveness of teaching and learning. Although this is a fairly broad definition, it does allude to the wider importance of assessment. Assessment is used to measure teaching and learning and to inform future practice by individuals on various levels related to education: Pupils to identify current achievement, attainment and areas for progression. Parents / carers can identify and aid student progression; additionally understanding individual and school performance compared to national standards. Teachers to identify areas of strength and weakness in their pupils skills and knowledge, thus informing planning, providing work of an appropriate challenge, covering the national curriculum and ensuring progression. Senior Leaders / Governors to identify schools areas of strength and areas of development with regard to national standards and additionally to local issues and demographics thus informing the school development plan. Government can use a variety assessment data and statistical testing to measure school performance, identifying good / best practice or areas which may need closer monitoring and support. The assessment process clearly provides an extensive range of uses for many people associated with education and schools. It is important to break the assessment process down into two widely accepted strands, assessment of learning (AOL) and assessment for learning (AFL). AOL is characterised by the use of tests, targets and exams whereby pupils receive a fixed mark, grade or exam result (e.g. the end result of a GCSE exam) (ONeill Ockmore, 2006). In comparison, AFL is concerned more with the process of collecting information from pupils so that both they and the teacher can identify the current stage of learning taking place and therefore highlight what needs to be done next for learning to continue (Assessment Reform Group, 1999; 2002). The purpose of AOL is to report on the achievement and attainment of pupils at a given time or stage within their learning (Harlen 2007), the term summative assessment is commonly used. Summative assessment refers to measuring the total sum of learning at a given point in time. It uses end of topic, end of key stage or end of qualification assessments to provide data which can be used to assess learning or to compare performance to national standards. These comparisons can be in different areas such as comparison to peers (normative assessment), pupils past achievements (ipsative) or set criteria (criterion referenced e.g. National Curriculum level descriptors) (Riding and Butterfield 1990). Clearly, assessing achievement encompasses ipsative assessment, assessing pupils progression form previous grades and assessments to their most recent activity. This can be done at the student, school and LA level. Students can record end of unit grades to understand and identify their own progression made (this can be linked to AFL); the school and Local Authority (LA) can use the assessment as performance indicators i.e. has the child made appropriate 3 levels of progress, is the school adding value to the child. Adding value can be an important factor; even though a child may not compare well to national averages, the child may have made significant progress in particular areas showing great ipsative improvements. For a school in a deprived area with fourth generation unemployment (such as my second school) this can show teachers, students and LA that progression and improvements are being made, even if these improvements are not reflected in the schools exam results or league tab les. Normative assessment is the assessment of a student compared to their peers (Browning 1997). Normative assessment is used frequently by many in education: by schools to place students in pathways / sets, by teachers to differentiate work and provide challenge and by LA / Government to compare schools and groups of students. Normative assessment does require students to be taking the same assessment. Potential problems arise via alternative / vocational qualifications or teacher judgement and discretion of which tests students in their class may sit if the assessment is not a school-wide focus or policy. Criterion referenced assessment is a common feature of most summative / AOL tasks now employed. Students are marked and ranked against a given criteria, a set benchmark; this may be a mark scheme for a GCSE or National Curriculum level descriptors correlated to specific year group for key stage 3 (National Curriculum testing). Criterion referenced assessments are believed to be much fairer and more objective than normative assessment (Dunn et al 2002) as all students are measured against the criterion given. This however provides some positive and negative features for those involved; teachers will become familiar with content to cover allowing adaption of teaching and experimentation to find best practice and hopefully improve learning. Students should be aware of standards and expectations that they must meet (linking with AFL) allowing for focus and attention to be paid to particular areas. Both teachers and students can familiarise with grade boundaries and nature of questions as ked. Finally at a LA or Government level an objective comparison can be made from school to school, town to town or demographic to demographic. Unfortunately the positives can have a negative aspect. Teachers and students may teach and learn to the test resulting in a poor understanding of the subject but excellent grades being attained by coached pupils. This can lead to inaccurate or insignificant comparisons being made by LA or Government and incorrect inferences being made. Coaching or teaching to the test is somewhat of a topical issue within keys stage 2 and 3 education; with many schools choosing not to entre students into Standard Assessment Tests (SATS) at the end of key stage 2 and 3 because of aforementioned issues. As mentioned coaching for a test can provide weakness in subject knowledge resulting in overinflated expectations of a pupils ability causing problems for teachers and senior leaders. Firstly teachers will have to retest or find true baseline information allowing for effective provision and challenge of work; later difficulties can be created due to students having over estimated predicted grades or potential. This is an obvious concern for senior leadership as school results may be affected by a child not achieving potential, a potential which may be unrealistic before intervention and provision. For senior leaders at key stage 2 and 4 the figures could produce a rather insignificant league table of results affecting reputation and i ntake. Such problems are trying to be resolved with alternative forms of testing. The Middle Years Information System (MidYis) test is now commonly used. Midyis tests are sat with no prior preparation and are designed to test ability and aptitude for learning rather than achievement (http://www.cemcentre.org/midyis). The tests are available for students at the end of key stage 2 and 3 and have good correlations with attainment. The test measures a whole host of skills including reading, writing, maths, perception and skills such as visualisation, block counting and spatial awareness. As no prior preparation is involved, teaching to the test is removed. Many schools now deploy assessment points throughout the year to monitor progression of pupils. There are many ways of collecting this data to monitor progression. Some schools may use the discretion of the teacher to produce a level based on their professional judgement; this can be done for academic ability / achievements and also personal qualities such as effort level. Additionally data can be produced from blanket assessments across faculties for particular year groups; or again with discretion of teachers to provide an assessment for their particular classes. Both rationales have merits and drawbacks to be considered before advancing with a particular methodology. Indeed at key stage 4, summative assessments are mainly produced by or with reference to qualifications being studied by pupils. Qualification boards provide the criteria to judge students objectively within cohorts studying the same qualification; however differences in qualification expectations are vast. There is great provision set aside for young people in an attempt to ensure every child can achieve, make a positive contribution and ultimately develop and become employed. Depending on demographics and catchment the provision made by the school will vary greatly. A more affluent catchment area consisting of employed families with a higher regard for education is more likely to encourage academic achievement and qualifications, such as triple award science and GCSE qualifications; providing a more academic qualification base instead of a more skills, practical base. From limited experience these differences have been apparent; with a more affluent lead school offering a wider ran ge of academic qualifications and GCSEs compared to a more deprived second school which provided a whole host of alternative qualifications such as BTEC, OCR National or applied GCSEs. Indeed this reflects engagement and choice from students but also shows the judgments which must be made by schools to match students to appropriate qualifications and assessments. Due to the nature of KS4 assessment teaching to the test is not an option. Skills based, practical qualifications often involve students producing evidence of meeting benchmark standards or gaining experience. The more academic qualifications ask questions in a variety of ways, including open questions, forcing students to understand their subjects. There is some discrepancy and controversy in data being produced at the end of key stage 4 due to GCSE equivalent qualifications. Schools currently use equivalents as a part of the data produced for Key stage 4 A-C grades; with many arguing that equivalents do not have the same rigour as GCSEs, an issue currently being reviewed at Government level by Professor Alison Wolf on behalf of the Department of Education. The data being produced at the end of key stage 4 via summative assessment plays a vital role in school performance. RAISEonline provides analysis of school and pupil performance data with aims of allowing school to better self evaluate, provide common data analysis for schools, LA, inspectors and school improvement partners and better support teaching and learning; it will enable schools to examine context, attainment and value added data explore hypotheses about pupil performance and moderate pupil targets (https://www.raiseonline.org/About.asp). The subjects mainly covered by RAISEonline are English, Maths and Science with some information on all GCSE subjects at the end of Key Stage 4. The document can provide a comparative of the school relative to national standards not only on attainment but also context and demographics. It is possible to see percentage of pupils on free school meals indicating deprivation, looked after children, percentage of pupils from ethnic backgrounds or that has Special Educational Needs status; all of which bring about varied challenges for schools. This allows schools to be put into to context in terms of pupils, catchment and demographics. Additionally prior attainment can be considered. Those schools with a higher than average number of pupils achieving a level 4 (on average) and a lower than average achieving a level 5 at the end of Key Stage 3 will find it more difficult to achieve a higher percentage of A-C grades (as with second school experience). This may result in more intervention being made for a larger number of students on C/D borderline to help increase attainment levels. RAISEonline uses an average point score (each level given an equivalent number to allow for statistical testing) to provide a picture of the attainment of pupils of all abilities. This can be used as mentioned above or it can be used to identify groups which may need more assistance e.g. a high score for GCSE points but low A-C points would suggest many students received qualifications for GCSE or equivalents but only managed 4 or less and not 5. This may suggest that middle ability students need to be extended further to achieve a C or that equal opportunities could be better promoted as other schools on average attain more C grades. At the lead school, average point score for English, Maths and Science is consistent with the national average however A*-C score is higher, this may suggest that middle ability students are focused on more for the core subjects with optional subjects being better resourced and focused to achieving higher grades. The final piece of RAISEonline data I will consider is the Contextual Vale Added (CVA) score. CVA is a prediction of attainment that accounts for pupil background, prior attainment, demographical or situational difficulties (as mentioned). If a school has a high CVA score (as with second school) it would suggest that the school is making very good progress with students, this may not be reflected in the average point score for A-C grades; but catchment area of pupils will limit that potential. If a school is very high in CVA it would suggest that the pupils are making more progress than predicted compared to national average. If this is not the case, further investigation can be complete to determine areas which need more attention and support to raise attainment, thus affecting the school development plan; an area which should continually evolve with the use of RAISEonline data. Over the next few months and years RAISEonline itself is likely to be adapted and evolved as current gove rnment reviews will change how schools and education is measured. The aforementioned Wolf Review will focus on vocational qualifications to determine which are sufficiently rigorous and useful to students and economic society. The recently released White Paper The Importance of Teaching is set to change how schools are measured; with an inclusion of Science to English and Maths as a floor target. The paper also outlines the importance of GCSEs and the movement away from vocational qualifications; rendering such vocational or alternative qualifications as obsolete and ineffectual. Within the exploration of summative assessment, there have been improvements in my knowledge of the range of assessments (Q12 appendix 2), which have incorporated the assessment requirements for those who I need to teach and their qualifications (Q11 appendix 1). The range is vast and importance must be placed on suiting the student to the qualification, considering rigour of qualification, strengths of the student and their aspirations. This is particularly important for student attainment and achievement and also school performance. Due too much of the data generated in summative assessment being used to provide data for statistical analysis (Q13 appendix 3); its importance must not be undervalued. Having accurate information on student ability, school context and issues can only serve as a benefit for teachers, a benefit which should be maximised. The information can be used coherently as part of the teaching and learning process, raising standards and levels of attainment. The second strand of assessment, Assessment For Learning (AFL), is very different to AOL. AFL is more concerned with the process of collecting information from pupils so that both they and the teacher can identify the current stage of learning taking place and therefore highlight what needs to be done next for learning to continue, rather than assess the learning taken place Assessment Reform Group, 1999; 2002). The term formative assessment is commonly used in place of AFL being described by Bell and Cowie (2001) as assessment which is intended to enhance teaching and learning. An analogy of making soup describes the difference most clearly; when a soup is being prepared, the cook tastes the soup, adjusting amounts of ingredients and determining what needs to be added, this is formative assessment. When the soup is served and tasted by customer that is summative assessment (Guskey 2000, cited in Lund and Tannehill 2010 p86). AFL is usually an informal process, entrenched in all facets of teaching and learning (Black et al 2003). As figure 1 illustrates, formative assessment can be best described as an ongoing process that interlinks with other elements such as planning, teaching and learning (Casbon and Spackman, 2005) Figure 1. The plan-teach-learn-assess cycle (cited Bailey, 2001 p141) The cycle illustrated reflects the relentless approach needed by teachers to meet best practice. Assessment must be used in order for the teacher to glean understanding of ability and set appropriately challenging work. This clearly links to planning to organise such work, allowing effective teaching and progressive learning. As teachers glean this knowledge of the group, they often require baseline data to assist their own judgments. Diagnostic Assessment (DA) is often used; it involves teachers assessing pupils progress against a given criteria (a potentially summative task), allowing them to become informed about their next steps in planning for effective learning (a largely formative task). There is debate over DA forming a part of formative assessment, summative assessment or being an individual, separate entity. In my opinion, due to its very nature of ascertaining previous knowledge, strengths, weaknesses and skills to inform planning, it is a part of the assessment for learni ng process. Indeed the DA may be an overlapping area of the 2 strands of assessment; completed in a more summative or formative way, largely depending on teaching style and preference. Upon completion of DA, the continual cycle mentioned above will become an inherent focus for the teacher. As emphasised by ONeill Ockmore (2006), assessment should not be viewed as a separate entity, but rather an imbedded principle as the other elements are dependent on this to develop and progress effectively. Using the levels ascertained in summative or diagnostic assessment, the teacher can then enhance learning and future attainment. An influential paper by Black and Wiliam (1998) Inside The Black Box; raising standards through classroom assessment showed formative assessment to have a pivotal role in raising standards, particularly when students are actively involved in the assessment process; and the results of assessments are used to inform planning. This information is invaluable to teachers. As mentioned via the learning cycle assessment is vital to inform planning and thus facilitating effective teaching and learning. By incorporating students into the process, focusing o n quality of learning and feedback, educational and learning standards can be raised. Additionally, Black and Wiliam (1998) explored developmental areas for improvement; providing some indication of evidence to support particular improvements of formative assessment methodology; indicating that the process requires further developments. The Assessment Reform Group (ARG) attempted to provide such developments; as a follow up to Inside The Black Box, the ARG produced Assessment For Learning: Beyond The Black Box (1999) identifying five key factors in effective AFL: providing effective feedback to pupils; actively involving pupils in their own learning; adjusting teaching to take account of assessment results; recognise the influence of assessment on pupil motivation and self-esteem, both vital to learning considering the need for pupils to be able to assess themselves and to understand how to improve. In practice, for educators, the factors clearly allude to facilitating understanding of what good learning or work is to students; they can therefore identify their stage of learning, areas to develop and how to improve. The ARG (1999) also provided risk factors with regard to assessment, factors which undermine the AFL process and should be avoided, these include; having an emphasis on quantity and presentation rather than valuing quality of learning; lowering confidence / self-esteem by concentrating on judgements and thus not providing advice for improvement; providing feedback to serve managerial / social purposes rather than helping pupils learn more effectively; working without a sufficient understanding of pupil learning needs. Building on the ARGs work and their own work in developing formative assessment Black and Wiliam et al (2002) produced Working Inside The Black Box; Assessment For Learning In The Classroom; hoping to pick up where they had left off and further develop AFL pedagogy under four main headings: Questioning To develop educators questioning skills, asking pertinent questions, allowing thought and response time for students, having follow up activities that are meaningful, and finally, only asking questions for which the teacher requires information or that the students need to think about. These are fairly simple points and a concept which can be considered and introduced to teaching practice quickly and efficiently; improving teaching and learning with a fairly immediate effect. Peer and Self Assessment Criteria for evaluating learning must be shared with and be clear to pupils; thus facilitating a clear overview of the aims of the work and what it means to be completed successfully. Pupils should be taught the habits and skills of self and peer assessment so that students can keep in mind the aims of the work and assess progress as they proceed. This will hopefully allow pupils to develop learning in a unique way which cannot be achieved in any other way. Practically this means sharing learning objectives and outcomes of lessons and activities and making self and peer assessment a common process. Revisiting aims of learning and assessing success can then be used to guide learning both for the teacher and by the student, promoting independence. Feedback Through Marking Written tasks should encourage pupils to develop and show understanding of key features of the subject studied. Written feedback should identify areas of strength, improvement and how to make that improvement; additionally providing opportunity for the improvements to be made. And finally to be effective, feedback should stimulate thinking to take place. In an area often rushed, it is clearly invaluable for teachers to consider their comments. Providing effective feedback empowers the student and allows for independent improvement; indeed, opportunities for learners to make the improvements are vital. The effective feedback concept is one which can be closely linked to peer and self evaluation. Having a consistent approach with clear criteria, making assessment and feedback a habitual process, will assist all feedback to be thought about and considered by the learner. Formative Use Of Summative Tests Summative tests should be seen to be a positive part of the learning process. Pupils should be engaged in a reflective way of the work they have done to revise effectively. This may and should involve students setting and marking questions within given criteria, to help them understand how the assessment process works and ways to improve. This can be linked closely to peer and self assessment and effective feedback once again promoting self ownership to students. It is imperative that teachers consider the formative assessment process and apply principles effectively and frequently. Teaching and learning goes hand in hand emphatically underlying the need for an open, clear process, which involves the student to think and consider at every possible opportunity. At the lead school many different activities have been engaged as part of the formative assessment process; many of which reflect the aforementioned principles and features of AFL. There is however a clear scope for improvement; especially in providing a transparent criteria for students to understand in completing their work. This does not reflect coaching to the test as mentioned in summative assessment, more of an understanding of what is expected to classify excellent work and how expectations can be met. To improve practice it is important to habitually employ the features of good AFL technique; this will assist students in becoming very aware of the learning process and their own learning needs whilst allowing teachers to facilitate the learning to maximal effect and efficiency. Within my exploration of AFL there have been vast improvements to my pedagogy and practice of assessment. The formative assessment process has immense importance to ensure effective teaching and learning (Q12 appendix 2). The AFL process can encapsulate all other forms of assessment to make the purpose more beneficial to the student; enhancing the learning cycle and thus teaching and learning. Statistical data and national information (Q13 appendix 3) can be used to inform the AFL process; likewise AFL can be used to enhance the summative process. In my opinion, AFL is one the most important aspect of classroom practice. It will allow further knowledge of students and ability, both by the student themselves and the teacher; leading to better planning, teaching and learning. This can only better serve the student and facilitate improvements in attainment. An area for development at the lead and second school was the recording of AFL. Formative assessment can provide a far more holistic picture of a child, the learning journey and performance comparatively to summative assessment. It removes individualised responses to the test condition and pressure felt at the time. Additionally, recording the formative assessment process enables teacher reflections of the learning taken place; ensuring all range and content is covered whilst facilitating better planning and enhancing the active learning cycle. This is an area which has little focus but could play a vital part in best practice for teaching and learning. A particularly important area for me is to ensure improved links between the formative and summative process. The summative process must be used in a more engaged, learning centred way stimulating thought and encompassing more AFL ideology. Thus making the learning journey more meaningful and enjoyable for students; hopefully promoting confident, motivated, independent, life long learners; of which all reach their full potential. In conclusion, all forms of assessment have merits and advantages. It is however the skill and knowledge of the teacher, in selecting the best suited assessment for the task, student ability and aims of learning which is most vital. The assessment process for the student must be transparent and informed allowing for though and reflection thus facilitating higher standards and superior learning. Appendices Appendix 1 Q11 Know the assessment requirements and arrangements for the subjects/curriculum areas in the age ranges they are trained to teach, including those relating to public examinations and qualifications. Appendix 2 Q12 Know a range of approaches to assessment, including the importance of formative assessment. Appendix 3 Q13 Know how to use local and national statistical information to evaluate the effectiveness of their teaching, to monitor the progress of those they teach and to raise levels of attainment.

Caught in the Net (the Internet, that is) :: Personal Narrative, essay about myself

"Hello. My name is Kim. I'm an online-aholic." There. I've said it. I guess I've been addicted for quite some time now, but I have just begun to realize it. My first interaction with the "Net" began when I was only 15 years old. My dad was the computer coordinator at our school, so he wanted to try Internet access at home before installing it at school. We became America Online members in 1993. None of my friends had e-mail back then. My relationship with e-mail started like a Romeo/Juliet conspiracy. I experimented with the Net on the sly at night when the rest of my family was sleeping. That's when I first created my own screen name. Although I was too young to drive, the locked doors of adolescence were suddenly flung open before me. I could be social in the evening rather than hang out with my family-the typical family that every adolescent wants to escape from. Hanging out in chat rooms became a nightly ritual. I quickly found friends who would meet me there, give advice for my adolescent problems, and discuss things such as dating, theater, religion, morals, and entertainment. I began to form emotional attachments with these new friends. In fact, I maintained two online relationships for over two years. Raul is a Hispanic teenager living in one of the roughest cities in our nation, Compton, California-the filming location of the 1991 movie Boyz 'N the Hood. I met Raul in a chat room one night. He sent me an instant message in the middle of a discussion about religion and asked what I believed. My subsequent chats with Raul seemed to have an impact on him and helped me to grow in my own faith. I occasionally took Raul's questions to my preacher or Bible teacher when I needed further explanation. For Raul's 18th birthday, I sent him a Bible that I bought with my paper-route earnings. Raul and I wrote each other for two years, and then Raul had to sell his computer. I haven't heard from him since. Brian is a middle-aged high-school theater teacher in Bowie, Maryland. He answered one of my message board posts about an upcoming audition for our school's performance of The Sound of Music. I was 17 years old at the time and greatly desired a part in the musical. Brian had expert advice for how to nail the audition, and as a result I was cast in the role of Maria. Caught in the Net (the Internet, that is) :: Personal Narrative, essay about myself "Hello. My name is Kim. I'm an online-aholic." There. I've said it. I guess I've been addicted for quite some time now, but I have just begun to realize it. My first interaction with the "Net" began when I was only 15 years old. My dad was the computer coordinator at our school, so he wanted to try Internet access at home before installing it at school. We became America Online members in 1993. None of my friends had e-mail back then. My relationship with e-mail started like a Romeo/Juliet conspiracy. I experimented with the Net on the sly at night when the rest of my family was sleeping. That's when I first created my own screen name. Although I was too young to drive, the locked doors of adolescence were suddenly flung open before me. I could be social in the evening rather than hang out with my family-the typical family that every adolescent wants to escape from. Hanging out in chat rooms became a nightly ritual. I quickly found friends who would meet me there, give advice for my adolescent problems, and discuss things such as dating, theater, religion, morals, and entertainment. I began to form emotional attachments with these new friends. In fact, I maintained two online relationships for over two years. Raul is a Hispanic teenager living in one of the roughest cities in our nation, Compton, California-the filming location of the 1991 movie Boyz 'N the Hood. I met Raul in a chat room one night. He sent me an instant message in the middle of a discussion about religion and asked what I believed. My subsequent chats with Raul seemed to have an impact on him and helped me to grow in my own faith. I occasionally took Raul's questions to my preacher or Bible teacher when I needed further explanation. For Raul's 18th birthday, I sent him a Bible that I bought with my paper-route earnings. Raul and I wrote each other for two years, and then Raul had to sell his computer. I haven't heard from him since. Brian is a middle-aged high-school theater teacher in Bowie, Maryland. He answered one of my message board posts about an upcoming audition for our school's performance of The Sound of Music. I was 17 years old at the time and greatly desired a part in the musical. Brian had expert advice for how to nail the audition, and as a result I was cast in the role of Maria.

Overview of Martin Luther’s Christian Liberty Essay

Martin Luther’s pamphlet, Christian Liberty, describes his feelings towards the Church. He did not agree with what the Church did. For example, the church had too many restrictions. Meaning that you could not practice another religion. Also, the Church had indulgences, which are supposed to be where if someone sinned, they would go to the church and pray, and have the church forgive you. But the idea of indulgences to the Catholic Church was if you sinned, then you were to pay a certain amount of money and then your sin would have been forgotten. Luther thought the Church should be about faith, not all about power and money. In the pamphlet, Luther believes that faith nurtures the body and soul. He believed that the Church did not believe in that. Luther eventually broke away from the Church for several reasons. Some reasons were how the Church made people pay for their indulgences, how that they had too many restrictions, and how the Church had so much power and how they abused it. Luther stated in his pamphlet, â€Å"From this anyone can clearly see how a Christian is free from all things and over all things so that he needs no works to make him righteous and save him, since faith alone abundantly confers all these things.† Luther in this sentence is saying how things such as indulgences are not needed to make him a better Christian, but if a man has enough faith, it alone will do the job. Luther also states that for preachers not to preach only about repentance, but also about the faith of the religion. The criticism that Luther has towards the preachers was that they abused authority that they don’t preach commandments and promises, and they don’t work solely out of serving one’s neighbor; they do it seeking their own profit. Luther was also angry with priests who use the word of Christ to make people dislike Jews. He believes that they should pray for the people and teach the people by example. Martin Luther’s solutions took the middle course and faced up too how, â€Å"They want to show that they are free men and Christians only by despising and finding fault with ceremonies†. What Luther meant by this was that the religious ceremonies done was not how they used to be; now they entail only the power that the Church has among the people. Luther believed that you should join a church and do as they say not to gain righteousness, but out  of respect for them. He said this by, â€Å"I will fast, pray, do this and that as men command, not because it is necessary to my righteousness or salvation; but that I may show due respect to the pope, the bishop, the community, a magistrate, or my neighbor.† Martin Luther believed of three powers or benefits of faith. One was that Christians are free from the land. If we honor God, he will honor us. He will see us as righteous and truthful people. Faith writes the soul with Christ. Christian soul therefore has all the good characteristics of Christ. Also Luther believes that faith gives us freedom. He states this by writing, â€Å"It is clear, then, that a Christian has all he needs in faith and needs no works to justify him; and if he needs no need of works, he has no need of the law; and if he has no need of the law, surely he is free from the law.† Since we are not perfect on earth, works help keep us moving towards our goal of perfection. Do works freely, only to please God. This is said by, â€Å"however, we are not wholly recreated, and our faith and love are not yet perfect, these are to be increased, not by external works, however but of themselves†. Through work, think only to benefit others. Faith is active through love. Luther stated this by, â€Å"we should devote all our works to the welfare of others.† â€Å"But works, being inanimate things, cannot glorify God, although they can, if faith is present, be done to the glory of God.† What Luther is stating here is if you have enough faith, then you can make the presence of God true. Because works don’t lead to righteousness, but with faith works can be done to the glory of God.

The mass media Essay Example

The mass media Essay Example The mass media Essay The mass media Essay In my presentation I want to deal with these questions. One fact is that the sphere of influence of media is spreading out. But does the increasing offer of information really gives us a more varied spectrum of opinions or has the flooding of news rather a degenerated and stun effect on our opinion. Is independent and critical journalism always possible at all?  The mass media is often called the mouthpiece of public opinion. This is again essential for social-political communication. Consequently the media can be seen as a producer of the general public. The quality of a democracy depends basically on the way how the society communicates, which means how the process of forming an opinion is carried out. The mass media are playing an essential role when forming an opinion in a democracy.  The word mass media includes all technical methods if multiplication and dissemination which produce the process of mass communication. This means in detail institutions like the press, radio and television.  And for most people these are the main sources of social information.  Therefore the media shall inform and create an quite exact image/copy of reality. But when we observe todays media, especially the yellow press we might come to the view that they carry some events to far and not very realistic. The notion of press freedom developed as a principle during the wave of democracy of the late seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Some fundamental points are regulated through the basic constitutional law, that everyone has the right to express his opinion in public as long as it doesnt offend against the regulations for protection of the youth and the personal honour. Moreover has everyone the right to make a correction if something wrong was told. The philosophy behind that is that information about different opinions will or want to help us to find the truth. It guaranties control and correction because there is a mutual process of arguments and counterarguments. So we could ask if the mass media is the forth authority or do they only have the task to control? Maybe they are only a catalyst of interests.  We could describe the public forming of an opinion as a theatre in which the media is writing or maybe directing the play. But on the other hand we could say that they only perform the role as an stage owner who rents his stage for big money to interesting actors. A good example for this point of view is the BILD-Zeitung. Who dont know the famous and at the same time notorious Bildzeitung. It doesnt matter who you ask everyone knows this newspaper. They are working with big letters and much pictures. The publishing in such a way is founded in America. They are the pioneer of screaming and scare bannerlines. The headlines are designed with strong statements in an emotional background. Everything is personalized. In a more and more technical world they search for something personal and on the other hand they dont have to read so much because the information is already filtered in short articles. They want to attract the reader with emotional, scaring or shocking headlines or pictures. The more effect it has on the reader, the better it is. The actors in that play are public figures, athletes and politicians. The one who brings the highest circulation gets the biggest part of the side and it doesnt matter if they destroy/ruin a life as long as they sell their newspaper. And one important factor is almost not decisive: the truth. The behaviour of the media during the war in Iraq is frightened. They swamped us with information which were faked. They showed us scenes in which they bombed a city, but it was only an unoccupied house somewhere in the desert. Therefore the question comes up, when do we know that its the truth, that its real. Can we discover it at all And who are the persons which remove the stitches I dont know and I fear we will never know  When looking back in the history the main goal of communication is the understanding of every single individual. Through the development into the days of the internet , it is getting more and more difficult to reach a consensus within the society. The globalization of the communication increases the alienation of everyones as well as the communication determines everyones life. As a single person it is quite impossible to influence the global stream of communication or to keep them under control.  Especially when we hear what occurs in Italy, it might bring us to the opinion that even though we would like to change something we havent the power to do so. Because while some European lawmakers fret about Silvio Berlusconis conflict of interests, his government is pushing through legislation which will allow his business empire to take an even bigger chunk of Italys media. Berlusconi effectively controls 90 % of the Italian TV market via his family interests in private broadcaster Mediaset and his influence over state-broadcaster RAI in his capacity as Premier. His family holding company Fininvest controls the nations largest publishing company Mondadori and its biggest film distributor, Medusa, while his brother Paolo runs one of the countrys most widely sold newspaper, Il Giornale. Other family interests include an indirect stake in Telecom Italia and a host of other interests.  The size of Mr Berlusconis grip on business and political power prompted protests from left-wing members of the European Parliament last week when the Premier outlined Italys plans for its presidency of the European Union.  For the Berlusconis, expansion into other media areas is banned at present, but if the media bill becomes law, there will be no limit to the number of media any firm can own.  So who can defend against such a development? Its an objective fact that for example parties try to have an influence on the media.  Some people say that the institutions of the mass media are important to contemporary politics. But do they keep this opinion if this is all handled through one person?  In the West elections increasingly focus around television, with the emphasis on spin and marketing. Democratic politics places emphasis on the mass media as a site for democratic demand and the formation of public opinion. The media are seen to empower citizens, and subject government to restraint and redress. Yet the media are not just neutral observers but are political actors themselves.  Contrasting with this is a liberal tradition which sees the mass media as essential to the development of democracy. The mass media is seen, in this view, as helping to secure rights of citizenship by disseminating information and a pluralism of views.  By this process public opinion forms and influences government. The media are seen as essential to the operation of a public sphere of open debate. The press constituted a public sphere in which an open political debate could take place. But this is a fallacy if politicians control/manage the media.

Business environment The WritePass Journal

Business environment Introduction Business environment IntroductionInternal Environment:Macro EnvironmentPolitical EnvironmentThe Socio-Cultural EnvironmentThe Technological EnvironmentMicro EnvironmentCustomersEmployeesSuppliersShareholdersMediaCompetitorsExternal EnvironmentMain FactorsChanging External EnvironmentBusiness and CompetitionSocial Environment and ResponsibilityConclusionBibliography Related Introduction generally th it is to be   understood by saying business environment is that circumstanse where business runs   or do its operations generally business environment can be divided in tow sectors one of them is external environmentswhich is known as PESTEL to academics another is internal environment which is more familiar as SWOT. Business environment show two kind of environment of business. Richman Copensaysthat the most important two part of business environment is External environment and internal environment. Lanworthington and chrisbritton say two kind of environment are Macro and micro environment of business environment. Internal Environment: Business has got an internal environment that was first identified by French physiologist Claude Bernard (1813–78), Adrian palmer Bob Hartley rightly said Micro environment and Macro environment is the part of internal environment. Richman and Copen, mention that Primary Activities and Support Activities are the part of internal environment. Macro Environment It is to be understood by macro environment is the outer elements of the business such as political, economical, social and so on, for most of the cases business has no control on macro environment. Political Environment Political environment has an important impact on the business. Political environment is not stable and can change quickly. The political environment in which the firm operates (or plan to operate) will have a significant impact on a companys international marketing activities. The greater the level of involvement in a foreign markets, the greater the need to monitor the political climate of the countries business is conducted. Changes in government often result in changes in policy and attitudes towards foreign business. Adrian palmer Bob Hartley explain Political environment include PEST Political System: The basic role of a political system is to integrate the parts of a society into a viable functioning unit, bringing together people of different ethnic or other backgrounds and allow them to work together to govern themselves. Political systems are founded upon political policies, which are established by combining different points of view that are articulated by key constituencies, such as politicians, businesses, or other special-interest groups.1.Totalitarian state, 2.Democratic State Economic forecast: Business is a micro economic unit. The only function of economic forecasting is to make astrology look respectable. John Kenneth Galbraith US (Canadian-born) administrator economist (1908 2006) Social forecast: The term Social Forecasting is not a recent addition to business vocabulary. The use of social forecasting stems from recognition that social pressures are becoming an increasing determinant for the success of any organization. The various indicators indicate that the society will be experiencing a total change in next few years. Some of these changes have to be anticipated and must be incorporated in any long-range plans of an organization. Economic forecasting is essentially concerned with modelling how people behave using financial criteria as a means for maximising welfare. It is dependent on certain assumption of people behaviour. Elements for social forecast is1.Identification of important phenomenon, 2.Selection of phenomena for deeper study, 3.A system of measurement, 4.A time-scale Technology: Information technology refers to the management and use of information using computer-based tools. It includes acquiring, processing, storing, and distributing information. Most commonly it is a term used to refer to business applications of computer technology, rather than scientific applications. The term is used broadly in business to refer to anything that ties into the use of computers. The Socio-Cultural Environment This is perhaps the most difficult element of the macro-environment to evaluate, manifesting itself in changing tastes, purchasing behavior and changing priorities. The type of goods and services demanded by consumers is a function of their social conditioning and their consequent attitudes and beliefs. Core cultural values are those firmly established within a society and are therefore difficult to change. They are perpetuated through family, the church, education and the institutions of society and act as relatively fixed parameters within which marketing firms are forced to operate. Secondary cultural values, however, tend to be less strong and therefore more likely to undergo change. Generally, social change is preceded by changes over time in a society’s secondary cultural values, for example the change in social attitude towards credit. As recently as the 1960s, personal credit, or hire purchase as is sometimes known, was generally frowned upon and people having such arrangements tended not to discuss it in public. Today, offering instant credit has become an integral part of marketing, with many of us regularly using credit cards and store accounts. Indeed, for many people it is often the availability and terms of credit offered that are major factors in deciding to pu rchase a particular product. The Technological Environment One example of how technological change has affected marketing activities is in the development of electronic point of sale (EPOS) data capture at the retail level. The ‘laser checkout’ reads a bar code on the product being purchased and stores information that is used to analyze sales and re-order stock, as well as giving customers a printed readout of what they have purchased and the price charged. Manufacturers of fast-moving consumer goods, particularly packaged grocery products, have been forced to respond to these technological innovations by incorporating bar codes on their product labels or packaging. In this way, a change in the technological environment has affected the products and services that firms produce and the way in which firms carry out their business operations. So technology, has an great impact   business its potential for the business to updated with the technology all the tme Micro Environment Customers Organizations survive on the basis of meeting the needs, wants and providing benefits for their customers. Failure to do so will result in a failed business strategy. Employees The main element of micro environment is employees because it the force which move other resources of the organization, they have the controlling power of mobility. Suppliers su Figure 1Micro Environmental Factor/Stakeholder Analysis Supplier got the bargain power , that is why they are potential to the business. The have the power of controlling demands.   Good relationship with supplier may facilitate business development. Shareholders Share holders for the public limited company and private limited company`s are important, because by law they are the partial owner of the organization, as result the got the voting power to select the governing comity those who run the business on their behalf. Media Positive or adverse media attention on an organizations product or service can in some cases make or break an organization. Consumer programmers with a wider and more direct audience can also have a very powerful and positive impact, forcing organizations to change their tactics. Competitors Business rivals are need to be consider in business environment, because their strategic plan promotion and policy affects the organization. External Environment A business does not function in a vacuum. It has to act and react to what happens outside the factory and office walls. These factors that happen outside the business are known as external factors or influences. These will affect the main internal functions of the business and possibly the objectives of the business and its strategies. Main Factors The main factor that affects most business is the degree of competition – how fiercely other businesses compete with the products that another business makes. The other factors that can affect the business are: Social – ultimate’s buyer, households and communities behave and their beliefs. For instance, changes in attitude towards health, or a greater number of pensioners in a population. Legal –new legislation in society affects the business. E.g. changes in employment laws on working hours. Economic –economy affects a business in terms of taxation, government spending, general demand, interest rates, exchange rates and European and global economic factors. Political – changes in government policy might affect the business e.g. a decision to subsidies building new houses in an area could be good for a local brick works. Technological – rapid pace of change in production processes and product innovation affect a business. Ethical – what is regarded as morally right or wrong for a business to do? For instance should it trade with countries which have a poor record on human rights? Changing External Environment Markets are changing all the time. It does depend on the type of product the business produces, however a business needs to react or lose customers. Some of the main reasons why markets change rapidly: Customers develop new needs and wants. New competitors enter a market. New technologies mean that new products can be made. A world or countrywide event happen e.g. Gulf War or foot and mouth disease. Government introduces new legislation e.g. increases minimum wage. Business and Competition Though a business does not want competition from other businesses, inevitably most will face a degree of competition. The amount and type of competition depends on the market the business operates in: Many small rival businesses – e.g. a shopping mall or city centre arcade – close rivalry. A few large rival firms – e.g. washing powder or Coke and Pepsi. A rapidly changing market – e.g. where the technology is being developed very quickly the mobile phone market. A business could react to an increase in competition (e.g. a launch of rival product) in the following ways: Cut prices (but can reduce profits) Improve quality (but increases costs) Spend more on promotion (e.g. do more advertising, increase brand loyalty; but costs money) Cut costs, e.g. use cheaper materials, make some workers redundan Social Environment and Responsibility Social change is when the people in the community adjust their attitudes to way they live. Businesses will need to adjust their products to meet these changes, e.g. taking sugar out of children’s drinks, because parents feel their children are having too much sugar in their diets. The business also needs to be aware of their social responsibilities. These are the way they act towards the different parts of society that they come into contact with. Legislation covers a number of the areas of responsibility that a business has with its customers, employees and other businesses. It is also important to consider the effects a business can have on the local community. These are known as the social benefits and social costs. Conclusion The topic was about Business Environment. Topic gives a brief of Internal and external environment and some critical analysis of them. Different  Ã‚   issue stand base of topics. How business environment run? what r the process?   What   based on business environment? These were the assignment was about.    Bibliography Drucker, Peter. Managing the nonprofit organization, New York: Harper Collins, 1990. Frumkin, Peter. Philanthropic leverage. Society, Volume 37, p40, Transaction Publishers, September 2000. The business and marketing environment / Adrian Palmer and Bob Hartley London; New York: McGraw-Hill, c1996.   Xiii, 340 p.: ill. ; 25 cm. Bib ID- 2721834. articlesnatch.com Boone, L., Kurtz, D. 1992. Contemporary Marketing. Fort Worth, TX: Dryden Press. Developing Your Strategic SWOT Analysis. Austrainer. 1999. austrainer.com/archives/1397.htm. (5 Dec. 1999). Ferrell, O., Hartline, M., Lucas, G., Luck, D. 1998. Marketing Strategy. Orlando, FL: Dryden Press. SWOT Analysis- Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats. PMI- Plus, Minus, Interesting. 1999. mindtools.com/swot.html. (5 Dec. 1999). Swoting† Your Way to Success. BHC. 1999. bradhuckelco.com.au/swot.htm. (5 Dec. 1999).

Paraphrasing my BSAD Capstone assignment (Strategy Implementation) Essay

Paraphrasing my BSAD Capstone assignment (Strategy Implementation) - Essay Example Changing the mission statement is very essential as it plays a very critical role in the creation of a business image. Another thing that it needs to do is working on its statement of values and maintaining it. In addition, it is essential for the corporation to prepare a list of strategies that would enhance its success. For it to be in a position of identifying the dangers that it could encounter, there needs to be an organizational structure together with a backup plan to save the situation in case the structure fails. The company should utilize a system of behavioral control and the employees should be given incentives and rewards to motivate them. Lastly, the company should address the ethical issues about it by planning for the existing legal issues. The name Stilsim means the enthusiasm that is felt in the industry. We have an extensive knowledge concerning the people and this shows how our company is recognized within the marked as well as the community. Our name, just like us, is very different. However, we have three offices located in central Ohio and our workforce there consists of several registered associates who offer flexible staffing yearly to our clientele’s accounts. We have vast experience in this field that goes for about 25 years, which gives use awareness regarding the present challenges, hence we supply you with staffing and service that can be able to sufficiently meet those challenges. Factors that the company values mostly include quality customer service, Integrity, honesty, personal excellence, mutual respect, openness and continual self improvement. We focus on our customer and cliental and our top priority ensuring that they are provided with the best of the services. We can boast of respecting our clients, employees and shareholders and love offering the best results. We also provide our employees and clients with out handbook and brochures which contains all the fundamental information about us so as to make them

Hispanic Gangs Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Hispanic Gangs - Essay Example During a time of recession, this information sheds more light on the impact crime has on our society. Combined with the very real struggle law enforcement agencies face to retain employees and maintain budgets, the report signals a very serious factor degrading our communities." (US Crime Affects Economy, 13 March 2009). "There are about 500 Sureo Hispanic gangs in Los Angeles County representing over 50% of the gang memberbership. They are more geographically distributed throughout the region and are found in significant numbers in the San Fernando Valley, San Gabriel Valley, the Beach communities, Long Beach, Compton and South Los Angeles." (Hispanic Gangs in Los Angeles, 13 March 2009). The 18th street gang is very popular when it comes to Hispanic gangs in LA. The number of members of this gang range between 8000-15000 gang members. It is believed that this gang originated from the Clanton 14 street gang, the gang is further subdivided into 5 parts in order to ensure a better functioning of the gang. Most of the members belonging to this gang are of the Mexican origin and it was initially decided that only Mexican citizens would be allowed to join this gang, this was however altered later on. The gang does not have a central leader and it is fair to say that it is loosely structured. There is no leader to lead the gang and to take care of the smooth functioning of this gang. The members of this gang function individually; they however join hands when a rival gang attacks their gang. The members of this gang are easily identified by the tattoos on their body. Every gang member has the tattoo of no 18 on their body in order to make the identification process easier. "Some estimates of the 18th are as low as 8,000 members. The notoriety of the gang is based on four distinct barrios, three near downtown Los Angeles west of the Staple's Center and the 110 Freeway, and one in the West Adams area." (18th Street Gang in Los Angeles County, 13 March 2009). The no 18 is displayed with the help of a tattoo and it is usually in roman numbers. There is another tattoo that is mutually exclusive to this gang. Most of the members have the tattoo of BEST on some part of their body or the other. The word indicates that their gang is the best in the vicinity or may be the best in the world. The gang members have to follow strict rules in order to be gang members, they are restricted from making use of any hard drug like crack cocaine. If the gang members violate the rules of the gang, they are usually beaten up for 18 seconds for minor offences and executed for serious breach of the rules. The 18th street gang recruits young children and this practice is really bad in short term as well as long term. Thus this gang is often called Children's Army because of their practice of recruiting young children. The gang members expertise in drug trafficking, making illegal documents, exchange of arms and other serious criminal activities. US lead in terms of the financial loss incurred by a country because of criminal activities. There are so many gangs in the US which operate depending on the area