Globalization and Its Impact Essay

Globalization has a major impact on the management of human resources in developing countries like India. The roles and responsibilities of Human Resource Departments are transforming as the modern business faces pressures of globalization. With accelerating globalization, organizations have had to change and new trends have set in even in the management of human resources. Globalization has forced organizations and their human resources to redefine their strategies. It is necessary for the management to invest considerable time and amount, to learn the changing scenario of the Human Resource Department in the 21st century. Now organizations need to place greater emphasis on attracting human capital rather than financial capital. In order to survive the competition and be in the race, HR Department should continuously update itself with the transformation in HR. Suitable HR Policies that would lead to the achievement of the organization as well as the individual’s goals should be formulated. The prime objective of the paper is to identify issues related with Globalization and its impact on Human Resource Development. The paper focuses on a number of outcomes of globalization, which promotes human resource development. It also states about several factors that inhibit the human resource development. Finally, the paper provides few strategy recommendations to develop human resources of developing countries in a changed situation of political economy of trade liberalization. Several articles of the renowned thinkers and practitioners are consulted to get a clear concept of the topic in respect to objectives mentioned above. Besides, different other publications were also consulted to make the paper informative and objective oriented. Keywords: Globalization, Human Resource Development, Management of Human Resources, HR Challenges, HR Policies ; Strategies. INTRODUCTION: Globalization is the closer integration of the countries and peoples of the world brought about by the enormous reduction of costs of transportation and communication, and the braking down of artificial barriers to the flows of goods, services, capital, knowledge, and human resource across borders. Globalization as an effective instrument of international exchange of goods and services has to have a human face, based on ethical consideration rather than on cut throat competition. It should play a positive role in reducing economic and social disparities within and among, the nations. It should be also effective tool for improving sustainable development. In the era of globalization, with the increasing competition, locally or globally, organizations must become more adaptable, resilient, agile, and customer-focused to succeed. And within this change in environment, the HR professional has to evolve to become a strategic partner, an employee sponsor or advocate, and a change mentor within the organization. In order to succeed, HR must be a business driven function with a thorough understanding of the organization dig picture and be able to influence key decision and policies. In general, the focus of today’s HR mangers is on strategic personnel retention and talents development. In today’s aggressive global market it has become necessary for organization to expand internationally to gain competitive advantage. Globalization has forced organization and their human resources functions to redefine their strategies. It is necessary for the management to invest considerable time and amount, to learn the changing scenario of the Human Resource Department in the 21st century. In order to survive the competition and be in the race, HR Department should continuously update itself with the transformation in HR. Suitable HR Policies that would lead to the achievement of the organization as well as the individual’s goals should be formulated. HR Practitioners of every organization and also for those who have significant interest in the area of Human Resource Management should realize the growing importance of human resource and understand the need to build up effective HR strategies. Peoples are important assets. Placing this value on employees, requires the organization to emphasize on human resource practice, including reward for superior performance, measures of employee atisfaction, careful selection of employees, promotion from within, and investment in employee development. Just taking care of employees would not be enough; new HR initiatives should also focus on the quality needs, customer-orientation, productivity and stress, team work and leadership building. The researcher has thrown light on the emerging HR trends and discusses HR issues in various industries like Financial Services, IT, Power, Healthcare etc. It is valuable for practicing HR managers of every organization and also for those who have a significant interest in the area of Human Resource Management, to realize the growing importance of human resource and understand the need to build up effective HR strategies to combat HR issues arising in the 21st century. INCREASING IMPORTANCE OF HRM The human resources management approach which has been gaining the attention of management professionals during the last decade has become the need of the hour due to various reasons. Widespread industrial unrest, growing trade union influence on work force, strained worker management relationship, increasing gulf between management and their people, emergence of militancy in trade unionism, and the growing conflict in the industrial relations scene have resulted in the workers getting out of gear of the management in many organizations in India. This has made the managements to think in terms of carrying their workers with them. Convincing the workers of the management’s concern for them may, perhaps, go a long way in getting along with them and ensuring their better performance. This has naturally resulted in the present human resources movement. Humanization of work environment in countries like Japan, quality of work life movement in countries like United States, and the quality circles approach in India itself have initiated action to attain better organizational commitment among the work force. The human resources approach is in consistency with these movements. Changes in business environment have substantially affected the approach to manpower. Technological changes are prominent among them, computer revo1ution, introduction of microprocessor, CNC machines in manufacturing operations, mechanization and automation of office operations, quick communication systems like satellite communication and facsimile introduction or robots, electronic revolution, and such other new developments have revolutionized the vital areas of business. Operational efficiency or manpower must cope with such a revolutionary change in the technology which necessitated a new approach to manpower. Globalization of business is another important aspect of change which takes place in the business environment of today necessitating a human resources approach to manpower. It is not only those Indian firms operate and compete abroad, but they have to compete with multinationals and foreign firms in India itself. Business philosophy, skills, expertise, efficiency and particularly global corporate citizenship philosophy fostered by internationally successful firms necessitate Indian firms to deliberately update their perspective to suit the internationally emerging trends. In conformity with the human resources approach emerging globally, Indian managers must also foster a human resources philosophy to guide their management practices. A widespread feeling now influences at least some management practitioners that the technological development has gone to the extent of machines taking over the human jobs. For example: highly skilled milling, grinding and lathe machines are replaced by CNC machine tools which can take over, not only manual functions but even the intelligent human functions and Robots can lake up human functions in place of real human beings. Increasing influence of illusions tend to reduce the importance of human role. In fact no machine can replace man. The more the technological development, the greater would be the dependence on man. One simple error a computer makes can lead to havoc, where skill and intelligence of man are indispensable. Greater the technological development, greater skill and technical capability are required of people who operate. Obviously greater human approach to people would be required. Moreover installation, monitoring of machines, production, operation, maintenance and controlling the operations need large number of trained and skillful people. Technicians, repairers and service people are also necessary. The more the technical development and automation, the more would be the dependence on human beings. There would, therefore, be greater need for humane approach to manpower. Similarly use of more capital intensive methods would result in greater productivity of men necessitating greater motivating and greater human resources approach of management. Large scale production, increasing effects of recession, technical and technological developments and so on have opened up new training needs for the people at work. Human resources development programmes have therefore; become the need of the hour. Government policy of importing technology has also necessitated introducing new facilities and avenues for training and development. Fresh initiatives and emphasis on research and development in the realm of industry also led to a new policy of human resources development to cope with the increasing demand for technically capable people. Resultantly a need arose for a new approach to human resources.

West Jet †Strengths & Weakness

WestJet Airlines is one of the low cost air carriers of Canada. In a very less span of time WestJet had gained the position of market leader in domestic airlines in Canada. The main reason behind this success could be the strategies being followed by the management while providing services to the customers. Providing excellent customer satisfaction seems to be the motto of the firm. Besides holding its position as the market leader Westjet proactively maintains its standard as a leader of environmental policy in the airline industry through corporate and individual responsibility. As well as adhering to all of the local, national and international standards, West Jet takes hands on accountability approach where no guidelines exist to ensure that the corporation remains responsive to current environmental issues and to prevent new environmental concerns from arising. WestJet strives to use and develop technologies that are environmentally sound. It also recycles and supports the use of recycled materials where possible. Employees are also advised and encourage to make health – conscious and environmentally sound decisions. This is ensured through proper training and the adequate funding needed to aintain a high standard of environmental responsibility. (West Jet Annual Report, 2003, p. 39). Strengths of WestJet Airlines: Concerning strengths and weaknesses of the firm, a SWOT analysis is require to assess the extent to which the strategies of the airlines have been successful. SWOT stands for strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats. Strengths and weakness are the internal factors while opportunities and threats are the external factor. Here we would be considering only the internal factors. The strengths of WestJet are obvious. The airline is a profitable organization. The success of WestJet could be credited to the different management strategies being implement in the firm. These strategies especially the customer retention strategy are formulated and well implement considering the competitive environment in today’s world. The strength of WestJet Airlines lies in the below mentioned factors: ? Emphasis on customer service and customer service relationships. ? WestJet’s no frills strategy does not only mean a cut in cabin crew, but also allows a faster pre-flight preparation, thereby reducing the time grounded as well maintaining low fare. Better passenger services compared to the competitions, especially Air Canada. ? High aircraft utilization. ? Minimization of operational costs on the board which is obtained by optimally utilizing the man power resources. ? Strong focus on cost leadership and benchmarking. It is highly environmental friendly which is reflected on the activities being carried on under recycling. WestJet fully supports recycling of waste de-icing fluid. West Jet contracts to use propylene glycol wherever possible instead of ethylene glycol for aircraft deicing in most of its routes and wherever it is logistically available Weaknesses of WestJet Airlines: Too much dependence on the business ravel market segment. ? Increased dependence on passenger revenues rather than having a diversified source. ? Domestic airline with no exposure in the regional – international segment. ? Limited viable expansion possible into newer destinations over and above currently served. ? Strict competition from Air Canada. The weaknesses are obstructing as barriers in the further growth of the firm. In order to overcomes these weaknesses and retain its position as market leader, it becomes highly essential fro WestJet to utilize the different opportunities and convert the different threa ts in to its strengths.

Things That Annoy Me

Topic: things that annoy me in everyday life Things that annoy me? That's a question which each person has his own personal opinion on this Matter my personal one being different to many of other people. I'll tell you what annoys me everyday, rude people you go up to some people asking for directions in the city and the completely ignore you like you're not even there. Manners should be a basic in people's lives but apparently as I can see and experience almost everyday that's not the case. People are being brought up without manners in these days and its annoying me quite a lot.Noisy neighbors In the morning are also a problem since I do not begin university until later on in the morning however my neighbors who wake up to go to work also have noisy kids who decide to yell on their way outside the house so as a result I end up waking up way before I have to and having difficulties going back to sleep making me have slight sleep withdrawal symptoms in class. Another thing that annoys me in everyday life is when I get back to my apartment and want to relax after a stressful day by playing some online video games or want to surf the Internet to watch movies or listen to music and I have Internet connection issues.This frustrates me mostly since I have to get up off the couch figure out what the problem is try and fix it and if y attempts are unsuccessful I have to call the provider and wait on hold to talk to them and having to wait for them to come over and fix it which takes a few days. However even though there are a million things that annoy me in everyday life these are my main reasons. I have a million reasons that annoy me but I Also have select few reasons that make me want to wake up in the morning and start my day despite all thee negativites. By Nicholas Kiprianou

The Appeal of Marilyn Monroe Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The Appeal of Marilyn Monroe - Research Paper Example Grady Johnson’s article for the Coronet magazine, written in 1952, captures the popularity and appeal of Marilyn Monroe when she was a rising star in Hollywood. He notes how the emerging star had seen 11 private foster homes in the first 16 years of her life. Coming out of this uncertain start is tough enough. But when we take into account how she’d always felt as an unwanted, underprivileged and low self-esteemed child, this maturation into a beautiful heartthrob is all the more astounding. Even as early as 1952, she was described with adoration by various journalists and film analysts. Here’s a sample: â€Å"She has been pegged the most promising star of 1952 by Movie Columnist Hedda Hopper, and described by Saloon-and-Sex authority Earl Wilson as having â€Å"the year’s most outstanding figure.† Producer Jerry Wald says, â€Å"She walks like a young antelope. When she stands, it's like a snake uncoiling. When she speaks, you don’t hear h er words – it’s as though she were whispering love to you.† She even is developing a singularly unnecessary skill as an actress.† (Johnson, 1952) If such is the adoration of seasoned critics and commentators, one can understand the kind of impact Monroe must have made on the general public. She was able to transcend class and gender barriers and garner the admiration of a whole generation. Even today her legacy is firmly established and her iconic status remains undiminished.  Ã‚   An aspect of Marilyn Monroe’s personal life which had added to her appeal is her numerous affairs. It is not surprising for actresses of her time to be involved with rich and powerful men. She had had relationships with sport stars, co-male-stars, and even with President John F. Kennedy. Instead of diminishing or sullying her image in the public eye, this tendency had only enhanced her romantic appeal. During her peak, she was every man’s dream girl. (Lockwood, 20 11) Contradictions in Personality Acting did not come easily to Marilyn Monroe. Her personal insecurities and vulnerabilities showed up as stage fright and shyness during her early years of

Human resource management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 3

Human resource management - Essay Example One such academician is Caroline Lloyd. In her article "Training and development deficiencies in high skill sectors" (2002), Lloyd raises concerns over the lack of training and development, and its impact on the UK’s competitiveness in the new knowledge economy. How grave the situation is, and what implications do Lloyds concerns have on the future of the UK labour market shall be analyzed in the following discussion. In Lloyds article, she presents the thesis that there is an acute need for emphasising on centrality of skills and training for the UK to compete in the new knowledge economy. Companies need to create learning environments so that employees will be able to adapt to the changing work requirements. This can be achieved through internal training and continuous vocational training. However, the current work environment does not meet these requirements. There are two explanations for the lack of training and development in organisations. Lloyd claims that one reason could be the market failure to provide individual training. This could be improved by providing a central incentive program for training employees, motivation for employers to develop their human capital and set up of best practice to influence employer behaviour. The second reason, as other academics provide, is because the UK is a relatively low skill economy. Employers are not competing in high end products in standardized markets. For this reason they are not motivated to develop their workers for higher progression. To alter this status quo of skill deficit, the government needs to implement policies to restructure the market and industries By using two companies from high value-added product markets, Lloyd establishes that despite the companies success in their product markets, they are constrained by their industrial environment. They are not motivated to invest in training and development, or set best practice standards in

Bancfirst Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Bancfirst - Research Paper Example First is the economic environment because it affects the value of the bank’s financial instruments, securities and loans portfolios and market and credit risk exposure. For example, a decline in economic conditions could lead to increased regulatory scrutiny, increase loan delinquencies, reduce customer borrowing power and eventually lower demand for the bank’s products and services (Bancfirst 14). The demand curve for houses shifted to the right because of the following factors. Firstly, they began with low interest rates that prevailed from 2001 to 2004. These low rates made borrowers increasingly opt for adjustable rate mortgages over fixed-rate mortgages. Then the subprime mortgage industry developed a number of innovative products, e.g. hybrids, to fuel their growth. Hybrids were loans that began with a low fixed rate for an initial period and were then reset to higher variable rates for the remainder of the term of the loan. With such products in the market, borrowers and lenders alike focused only on the borrower’s ability to carry the low initial payments. These factors heightened consumer optimism and confidence which encouraged more borrowing. The equilibrium price went up. The falling prices made homeowners begin to owe more than their home’s value. Borrowers with adjustable rate mortgages were unable to refinance before their rates reset. As borrowers were unable to pay, foreclosures rose sharply and financial institutions that had invested heavily in subprime-related securities went into decline and some collapsed. With some firms collapsed, the supply curve shifted inward. Thus, the equilibrium price for houses went up. The housing crisis began when the US economy was in recession. This is manifested by the fact that the low interest rates that prevailed from 2001 to the end of 2004 were measures implemented by the Federal Reserve to combat the 2001 recession and prevent deflation (Barth et al. 7). The Federal Reserve Chairman says the

MARKETING PLAN REPORT Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

MARKETING PLAN REPORT - Essay Example †¢ Accounts for a distributed market, for instance families, businesses etc. †¢ Center Parcs employs a wide range of promotions †¢ The organization treats its staff as the most important asset and recognizes them by promoting training and other initiatives that enhance their development (World Bank, 2006). Weaknesses †¢ The organization can only accommodate well-off customers †¢ There is a long lead time for future projects and/or developments †¢ The organization’s activities involve extensive use of natural landscape. †¢ Overreliance on weather despite the fact that the domes can provide heated water for swimming; but not for all the guests in the villages. Threats †¢ Complete focus on business customers may deter families †¢ Continued development is a threat to the environment †¢ Customers’ dependence on economic issues, for instance, the exchange rate etc †¢ Competitive prices from foreign holidays †¢ Existence of competitors such as Butlins. Opportunities †¢ Accommodating business customers †¢ Leasing out of all the facilities of the park †¢ Maximization of marketing opportunities via the use of the customers’ database (ITU 2007) †¢ Plenty of land for further development of more villages Being an organization in a market or rather field that has high demand, Center Parcs has found itself competing with other organizations that offer similar products and services. The main holiday service providers competing with Centre Parcs UK are Pontins, Butlins and Haven (Center Parcs 2012). ... customers Leasing out of all the facilities of the park Maximization of marketing opportunities via the use of the customers’ database (ITU 2007) Plenty of land for further development of more villages Threats Complete focus on business customers may deter families Continued development is a threat to the environment Customers’ dependence on economic issues, for instance, the exchange rate etc Competitive prices from foreign holidays Existence of competitors such as Butlins. Competitor Analysis Being an organization in a market or rather field that has high demand, Center Parcs has found itself competing with other organizations that offer similar products and services. The main holiday service providers competing with Centre Parcs UK are Pontins, Butlins and Haven (Center Parcs 2012). Based on the target market which primarily consists of families with young children as well as empty nesters (parents with grown children who have left home), these organizations pose a c ompetitive threat to Center Parcs. Most customers who visit live within a three-hour drive from the villages with a 60% repeat. A 60% chance of customers returning to the Center Parcs means that out of 10 at least 6 return (Center Parcs 2012). Butlins and Pontins offer stiff competition in this area since they offer similar services to those of Center Parcs’ but at a different level (World Information 2006). The Competitive Advantage The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) Matrix Product-market growth v. Market share High Low High Star – Center Parcs should maintain its marketing investments so as to keep realizing the prevailing profits. Problem child – this situation requires the organization to increase its marketing support in order to increase the market share. Low Cash cow – this situation

Triumph of The Will - film by Leni Riefenstahl Research Paper

Triumph of The Will - film by Leni Riefenstahl - Research Paper Example The film that was purportedly made under Hitler’s instructions (his name appears in the titles) contains extracts of speeches delivered by the  Nazi leaders  and includes speeches by  Hitler that are intermixed with footage of the gathered supporters. The main theme of this documentary was to instill a belief amongst the viewers that Germany  would return as  a super power under Hitler’s able leadership. Despite the director Riefenstahl’s claims that the film was a documentary, after its release in 1935, it was held as more of propaganda  film and was considered as one of the best propaganda films made in the history of cinematography.2 The techniques used in the movie like creating distorted images using a long focus lens, moving cameras, use of  aerial photography, and the innovative mix of cinematography with music (a new and revolutionary concept at that time) turned it into one of the  greatest films ever made.3 The film won many awards in Ge rmany and in other parts of the world, the US,  and it continues to influence documentaries and films even in the twenty-first century.4 This research paper explores the various facets of the movie, examines the concepts of art, documentary and propaganda, and analyses what transforms a documentary into a propaganda film. It will review various available literatures to derive that this film, despite claims by the director, is a documentary propaganda that attempted at portraying the Third Reich in a positive light. Discussion Films used as a popular medium for propaganda Propaganda manifests itself in various ways and during the years prior to WWII (1930s) its shape was framed by the place where it occurred, that is, Germany or the UK (the two main powers during the WW era). This is evident in the movies Night Mail by Harry Watt and Basil Wright, and Triumph of the Will by Leni Riefenstahl that revealed various ways in which propaganda can be used to influence viewers. Propaganda has a negative outlook from an overall perspective, given its adverse effect on mass viewers as well as individual audiences, which is evinced even in the 21st century. The term by itself tends to carry a disagreeable connotation; however, propaganda (under any conditions) can be classified as good or unpleasant depending on the benefits of the cause being portrayed through it and the degree of correctness of the information that is being relayed. In this context, it is interesting to note what Barnays wrote in his essay, â€Å"In itself, the word â€Å"propaganda† has certain technical meanings which, like most things in this world, are ‘neither good nor bad but custom makes them so.’†5 He defined the process as â€Å"a consistent, enduring effort to create or shape events to influence the relations of the public to an enterprise, idea or group†¦This practice of creating circumstances and of creating pictures in tem minds of people is very commonâ⠂¬ ¦Sometimes the effect on the public is created by a professional propagandist, sometimes by an amateur deputed for the job. The important thing is that it is universal and continuous; and in its sum total it is regimenting the public mind every bit as much as an army regiments the bodies of its soldiers.†6 Propaganda, which through the different eras were used to "to produce and spread fertile messages that, once sown, will germinate in large human cultures,†   took in a new form in 20th century, where propaganda were used mainly by the ruling political orders and desire to pass information that would â€Å"sway relevant groups of people in order to accommodate their agendas.†7After the Lumiere brothers (1896) successfully used a film for propaganda, it became a popular tool for the various state governments and other non-state actors

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

Technology and Business - Essay Example In a way, Blackberry is the next generation in portable access that began with the introduction of mini computers and then laptops and now to handheld devices. It is an improvement over the PDA (Personal Digital Assistant). The Blackberry has its own operating system that has been developed by RIM (Research in Motion), the company that has pioneered the device. There is provision for third party vendors to provide add-on software. Currently, Blackberry allows for integration with the Microsoft Exchange, Novell and Lotus software. Blackberry can be thought of as a mix of the WAP access in mobile phones and the portability of a PDA. The latest versions of Blackberry have the GPS (Geographical Position Service) enabled along with the radio feature. This is a marked improvement over the earlier versions and it shows the extent to which the device has evolved over the years. The Blackberry device is portable and allows for flexibility and â€Å"on the move† access of the applications for professionals in any field. It is the technology of choice for senior management and those who have multiple meetings in a day. As mentioned in the previous section, it is a boon for anyone who spends a lot of time away from his or her desk and yet needs to access the emails and know the schedule for the day. Many companies have taken to the Blackberry devices in a major way and it is not uncommon to see executives sporting these devices. The later versions of the device have text messaging and group chat enabled along with the internet fax and other features that enable the users to access the network simultaneously. More and more companies are going in for versions of the device with lots of gigabytes of memory and storage space so as to enable the users to have applications like Microsoft Word integrated and make the users access them â€Å"on demand†. This integration makes the transition from desktop applications to the handheld devices and

College Players Should Get Paid Essay Example for Free

College Players Should Get Paid Essay In the world, college athletics grows and continues to bring large financial benefits to colleges, universities and even sponsors. This leads to many debates concerning the payment of the athletes. Some people think that scholarship paid to colleges for these student athletes is enough while others claim that the payments might make them to leave the college early for participating in the athletics. Division 1 college athletes should be paid. College athletes put their bodies on the line just like the pros do. Wide receiver Martin Brown tears his ACL and his career in football is over. Defensive tackle Eric Legrand gets paralyzed from the neck down and his career in football is over. Wide receiver Dante Love gets a spinal injury and ends his career in football. Players do a lot for their communities. Like the Santa Ana college football team devoted a whole weekend volunteering in two charity events. Last year Ohio State did community service for a total of about 6,496 hours. Ole Miss has a program call The Ole Miss Rebel Reading Program where they read to local elementary schools. The college athletes bring in a lot of money to their institutions. The players should receive some of this money because without them the schools cannot be able to receive all the popularity and the money. College athletes make enough money for colleges that it would not hurt to give some back. They should take better care of their student-athletes by paying them for their services. Many College athletes live in poverty because the money they get is not sufficient enough to pay for all of the expenses and basic necessities. The athletes that graduate from colleges stay because their parents support them by giving or sending money to them. If college athletes are paid, there would be more athletes graduating from colleges. Paying athletes would be good for everyone and players would be forced to go for college education instead of only concentrating on the sports. The colleges athletes are not allowed to work hence do not get money to purchase the necessities. This leads to players accepting any illegal money, cars, clothes, etc. Most college athletes dont turn professional, so the athletes wont have any working experience when they get into the real world. This would give the non-athletes and advantage in the working world over the athletes. Most of the athletes that have the opportunity to leave school and turn professional do so, because college athletes live in near poverty. To avoid all the illegal gains, the athletes should be paid. Marylands Gary Williams says . some of these guys are pretty poor coming here, and a lot of college students have some money you feel out of place, you dont feel competitive academically sometimes, and I think it could do a lot of good If colleges dont pay the athletes the professional leagues should. Professional leagues such as the NBA, NHL, NFL, and MLB use colleges as minor leagues. Most of the players in these leagues come from universities across the U.S.A. Since the leagues get the athletes from the universities, they should pay them the same way they league players. College athletes should receive money for all of their needs, or if they cant do this the athletes should be given the opportunity to work, which will assist them, learn about working in real world.

Consequences Of Childbearing For Teenagers Social Work Essay

Consequences Of Childbearing For Teenagers Social Work Essay Introduction Public concern over adolescent sexual health and the resolutions to these concerns has over the past three decades generated political debate and academic inquiry the world over. At the core of adolescent sexual health is the issue of teenage pregnancy. South Africa has not been spared from the challenges teenage pregnancy presents. Inquiry into teenage pregnancy in South Africa began in the 1980s. In an effort to control the prevalence of teenage pregnancy, academics and policy makers alike have developed various strategies and policies targeting teenagers. Yet three decades later, teenage pregnancy still remains a topical issue in South Africa. About 16 million adolescent girls between 15 and 19 years give birth each year worldwide, and 80% of these girls are found in developing countries (World Health Organisation, 2010). In South Africa, 40% of all births involve girls under the age of 19 years, and 35% of these teenagers, give birth before reaching the age of 19 years (Medical Research Council, 2009).According to the Department of Basic Education (2009), in South Africa, a total of 45,000 teenagers were pregnant in 2008, while the number increased to 49,000 in 2009. This chapter examines literature on teenage pregnancy, and will assist in providing rationale and context for this study. This literature review will deviate from the traditional Knowledge, Attitude and Perception (KAP) literature studies that isolate individuals from social, cultural and economic contexts that influences and shape their lives. The weakness of KAP studies is that they do not acknowledge the effect of cultural, economic and societal factors on human behavior. Jewkes et al. (2001) add that KAP studies on teenage pregnancy in South Africa have mainly been descriptive and do not make an effort to account for the gap between knowledge, attitude and perception. In effort to account for these discrepancies, and come up with gaps in teenage pregnancy research, this literature review has been divided into the following two sections (i) the consequences of child bearing on teenagers, and (ii) factors contributing to teenage pregnancy. CONSEQUENCES OF CHILDBEARING FOR TEENAGERS The challenge of unplanned and unwanted pregnancy for a teenager has long-term consequences, not only for the mother, but for society as a whole, with far-reaching implications for economic and social development. Mpanza (2010:66) puts forward that teenagers who drop out of school due to pregnancy never do well after they return from childbirth, this can be attributed to divided loyalties between taking care of the child and continuation of school. Because of its usually unwanted and unplanned nature, teenage pregnancy always poses a health and social risk, a point further supported by Edgardh (2000), Genius and Genius (2004), Santelli (2000), and Petiffor et al. (2004). These studies confirm that early sexual initiation is a predictor of risky sexual behaviour and is more likely to be non-consensual, unprotected and to be subsequently regretted, resulting in unplanned and unwanted pregnancy. While the consequences of teenage pregnancy are varied, it is important to acknowledge that teenage pregnancy is a result of a complex set of varied, but interrelated factors. An understanding of these factors will enable a better understanding of the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of teenagers towards teenage pregnancy. Disruption of school Teenage pregnancy has the potential of limiting a learners future career prospects. For the pregnant learner, impending motherhood forces her to drop out of school as she is unable to continue studying (Macleod Tracey, 2009). Learners are forced to leave school when their pregnancy has progressed as schools are considerate of their state (Bhana Swartz, 2009). The Department of Educations (DoE) 2007 Measures for the Prevention and Management of Learner Pregnancy makes it possible for educators to request learners take a leave of absence for up to two years (Macleod Tracey, 2009:15). Even with legislation in place, pregnant teenagers are sent away from school earlier than they should (ibid). This is probably due to the perception that pregnant learners are a bad influence to other learners. Vagueness and ambiguity of the education guideline presents a challenge to the educators who are left to interpret it at their discretion. For instance, the document puts the responsibility of parenting firmly on the learner, and states that a period of two years may be necessary for this purpose. No learner shall be should be re-admitted in the same year that they left school due to pregnancy (DoE, 2007:5), educators are left to decide how long the learner stays away from school. This ruling may be in conflict with the desires of the young mother who may have sufficient support at home, which enables her to return to school earlier than expected (Bhana Swartz, 2009). Young fathers are also affected by pregnancy, albeit differently. It has been reported that impending fatherhood, cultural and societal expectations may force the young father to leave school and seek employment. This is conditional as it depends on whether the boy accepts responsibility or not (Shefer Morrell, 2012; Bhana Swartz, 2009). However, Macleod and Tracey (2009) argue that the level of disruption caused by pregnancy on learners is debatable as learners drop out of school for various reasons of which teenage pregnancy is one. Preston-Whyte  and Zondi (1992) concur with this assertion. Manzinis (2001) study of teenage pregnancy in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) indicates that more than 20.6% of pregnant teenagers had already dropped out of school before falling pregnant. Apart from falling pregnant, teenagers may leave school due to frustrations associated with the inexperience of teachers, who often are required to teach in areas that are not their expertise, and a lack of relevance of the curriculum and teaching materials (Human Science Research Council, 2007). Among factors within the home that led to drop-out, learners in this study cited the absence of parents at home, financial difficulties and the need to care for siblings or sick family member. Strassburg et al. (2010) and Fleisch et al. (2010) concur with the 2007 HRSC findings and assert that the reasons teenagers drop out of school are a combination of inter-related factors. As such, Fleisch et al. (2010) note that poverty alone cannot best explain why teenagers drop out of school, because there are other factors such as academic ability of the teenager, teacher-pupil relationship, support from home and school, alcohol and drug abuse and family structure that contribute to school dropout. Lloyd and Mensch (1995:85) summarise the various reasons why teenagers may drop out of school by stating that, Rather than pregnancy causing girls to drop out, the lack of social and economic opportunities for girls and women and the domestic demands placed on them, coupled with the gender inequities of the education system, may result in unsatisfactory school experiences, poor academic performance, and acquiescence in or endorsement of early motherhood. However, pregnancy ranks among the top contributors to school dropout for girls in South Africa (HRSC, 2009). While pregnancy may not be the reason for leaving school, child care is a reason for not returning to school. Manzini (2001) indicates that young mothers, who have to take care of their babies, and find it difficult to juggle student life and being a mother, ultimately drop out. Various reasons for not returning to school have been explored, among them being a lack of a support structure, financial challenges and access to a Child Support Grant (CSG). Research in South Africa indicates that teenagers who do not have support from their families and struggle financially once the baby is born, usually dropout of school so as to provide for the baby and themselves (Bhana Swartz, 2009). On the other hand, studies in Brazil and Guatemala indicate that girls are forced to look for jobs to supplement family income and take care of the new family member (Hallman et al., 2005). Young mothers who have support structures in the form of parents and grandparents have an opportunity of returning to school (Grant Hallman, 2006). Matthews et al. (2008) concur and maintain that the presence of an older female in the family enables learners to return to school, while the absence of the same forces them to look for alternative ways of making a living. This is the same with teenage fathers who have accepted responsibility and have family that is prepared to support the child (Bhana Swartz, 2009). The return to school in South Africa is motivated by a desire for a better life. Anecdotal evidence suggests that parents of African teenage mothers usually send the teenager back to school, since she has a higher chance of fetching high bride price in the event that she gets married. In the African belief system, an educated woman is bound to fetch a higher price than that of an uneducated one (Macleod, 2009; Mkwananzi, 2011; Bhana, Swartz Morrell, 2012). Kaufman, de Wet and Stadler (2000) concur, adding that the fact that the teenager has proven her fertility actually increases her chances of marriage in future. Interestingly, teenagers in Hlabanganas 2012 study in Soweto (South Africa) indicated that falling pregnant before marriage decreases the bride price, as prospective grooms consider the teenage mothers as used goods. Reasons for returning to school after pregnancy may vary for both sexes, but the important part is that the teenager is back in school. Clearly the effects of teenage pregnancy on the teenager vary for the young parents, the difference may lie in the financial circumstances of the teenagers family and on the part of the young father whether or not he accepts responsibility of the pregnancy. The consequences of dropping out of school for teenage girls due to pregnancy cannot be overestimated, especially in a continent where the adage when you educate a woman , you educate a nation holds true (Hubbard, 2009: 223). The main thrust of the study is to understand why teenagers continue falling pregnant in the face of efforts by the South African government in trying to manage teenage pregnancy. In an effort to control and manage teenage pregnancy, the government has provided youth-friendly clinics, life skills programmes in schools and is currently on a much opposed drive to supply condoms in schools. Opposition for distributing condoms in schools comes from parents who fear that by distributing condoms in schools, teenage rs are given indirect permission to indulge in sexual activities. In light of the efforts made by the South African government and a decade of spending on teenage pregnancy management, figures still indicate that teenage pregnancy rates are on the increase nationwide. Disruption of school, as a consequence of teenage pregnancy merits scrutiny in this study, as it will enable an understanding of their perceived effect of teenage pregnancy on young girls who are pregnant. health risks Research on health risks associated with early childbirth in teenagers is mainly divided into two main camps. One camp argues that teenagers are at risk of health problems due to their socio-economic status. The other camp, which is scientific, argues that age at first childbirth puts young women at risk of health problems as she is not mature enough to push the baby, and this proves fatal to both mother and child. Some young mothers who have assisted births end up having obstetric complications such as hemorrhaging and damage to the womb. Macleod (2009) identifies paucity of research in South Africa in terms of health risks associated with early childbirth. Age at first child birth contributes to a range of complications, including pregnancy-induced hypertension, anemia, obstructed and prolonged labour, low birth weight, preterm labour and delivery, perinatal and infant mortality, and maternal mortality (WHO, 2007). These complications are usually associated with the physical immaturity of teenagers, an assertion that Cameron (1996) supports and adds that limited access to health care services is another contributing factor to the range of complications. He suggests that complications become more pronounced when the teenager decides to terminate pregnancy (Cameroon, 1996:83). In South Africa, the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act (No. 92 of 1996) allows minors under the age of 18 years to terminate a pregnancy without the consent of either parents or guardians. Manzini (2001) suggests that due to health personnel attitudes, teenagers are forced to have unsafe abortions, which may lead to death. Lack of support structure before and after termination maybe the reason for teenagers resorting to self-administered terminations and this usually leads to irreversible damage to the womb or even death (Petiffor et al., 2005). Sexually active young fathers face different health challenges from those of the young mother and child. Bhana and Swartz (2009) indicate that young fathers in Cape Town (South Africa), often have multiple and concurrent partners (MCP), and this puts them at great risk of contracting and spreading HIV. However, they are quick to mention that impending fatherhood for those that have accepted responsibility is cause for behaviour change. MCPs are one of the main drivers of the spread of HIV (Halperin Epstein, 2007). Young men put themselves at risk by practicing unprotected sex with multiple partners who themselves may be part of a potentially sexual network. Geronimus and Sanders (1992) observe that young African American women who live in conditions of poverty are more prone to problems as they are unable to access pre- and post-natal care. They note that this is different for white teenage mothers who are the bulk of teenage mothers in America. Geronimus and Sanders (1992) suggest that this may be due to the differences in economic status of the teenagers. Macleod (1999) points out that despite their socio-economic status, teenage mothers hardly ever access pre- and post-natal services. This may be due to the stigma associated with teenage pregnancy, and may also be due to the attitudes of service providers. While studies may site negative attitudes of staff towards teenagers (Wood Jewkes, 2003), Ehlers (2003) paints a more positive picture, arguing that youth-friendly services initiated by South Africas Department of Health (DoH) have made great strides in addressing the stigma attached to adolescent sexuality. The Child Support Grant (CSG) Social grants or assistance can best be described as non-contributory cash transfer programmes set up by the government for the under privileged, aged or vulnerable (Grosh et al., 2008). Social grants are very important as they assist in alleviating poverty, reducing the level of vulnerability of vulnerable groups in society and providing social insurance to the vulnerable groups in society (Neves et al., 2009). The CSG was first introduced in South Africa in April 1998 as a poverty alleviation strategy for the poorest children (Parliamentary Liaison Office, 2007). Initially restricted to children under the age of seven years, it was later extended to include 14 year olds in 2003. According to Hall (2011), the CSG pay-out in 2011 was R275 per month per child. A lot of debate surrounds the CSG and teenage pregnancy in South Africa with the media fuelling the opinion that teenagers fall pregnant to access the CSG. Popular opinion states that the CSG has led to a perverse incentive for teenagers to conceive and go on to spend the money on personal goods (Macleod, 2006). In response to the media outcry, the Department of Social Development (DSD) commissioned research into the matter in 2006. The research concluded that there was no direct relationship between CSG and teenage pregnancy (Kesho Consulting, 2006). Other research by Makiwane and Udjo (2006) concluded that there is no evidence that the CSG leads to an increase in welfare dependency in South Africa. Furthermore, during the period in which the CSG has been offered, rates of termination of pregnancy have increased (Macleod, 2009). In 1998, when the CSG was introduced, abortion rates were at 4.1%, a decade later abortion rates were at their all-time high of 8.1 %, and in 2011 they were at 6.3%. Macleod (2009) suggests that the high rate of abortion amongst teenagers, in the face of the CSG, is evidence that there is no relationship between the CSG and teenage pregnancy. Matsidiso Nehemia Naong (2011) concurs with research that indicates that there is no link between the CSG and teenage pregnancy. In her study of three of South Africas provinces (Free State, Mpumalanga and Eastern Cape), Naongs sample of 302 school principals and 225 Grade 12 learners indicated that there was no relationship between the CSG and teenage pregnancy. Instead, the study concluded that poverty, peer pressure and substance abuse contributed to teenage pregnancy. Naong concludes that teenage pregnancy and CSG are divorced and any influence between the two is negligible. Interestingly enough, anecdotal evidence suggests that more and more teenage girls are falling pregnant in an effort to access the CSG so as to complement household earning or in some instances the CSG is the main source of income. In such cases teenage pregnancy ceases to be unplanned and becomes planned and unwanted. In a 2005 study of CSG use in KZN, Case, Hosegood and Lund (2005) showed that 12.1% of pregnant teenagers who had conceived cited the CSG as the reason. Tyali (2012) in his study of HIV and AIDS communication in Platfontein (South Africa) found that teenagers were deliberately falling pregnant so as to access the CSG, while others wanted to access the HIV and AIDS grant. Marsh and Kaus (2010) study of teenagers perceptions and understanding of teenage pregnancy, sexuality and abortion concurs with Tyalis (2012) conclusion that teenagers deliberately fall pregnant to access the CSG. Using a population sample of 35 teenagers (24 girls and 11 boys), Marsh and Kau (2010) discovered that the CSG was perceived as means of increasing household income, by having a baby, the teenager then contributes towards the household income through access of the CSG. Interestingly, Marsh and Kaus research population indicated that the influence or pressure to bear children in order to access the CSG came from family. On the other hand other teenagers viewed the CSG as a way of increasing the pocket money for clothes and cell phones. On the other hand, the CSG has been credited with enabling teenager mothers to return to school. The CSG is associated with an increase in school attendance and improved child health and nutrition. Thus, the grant can be associated with an improvement in the lives of children whose caregivers receive the CSG on their behalf (Macleod, 2009:24). It will be interesting to find out how teenagers perceive the relationship between the CSG and teenage pregnancy. Their attitudes regarding the grant will also be important in the formulation of a communication intervention, and eventually contribute towards efforts to manage teenage pregnancy rates. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS TO TEENAGE PREGNANCY The present study does not look at pregnant teenagers knowledge, attitudes and perceptions towards teenage pregnancy; instead it focuses on non-pregnant teenagers knowledge attitudes and perceptions towards teenage pregnancy. Having said that, contributing factors to teenage pregnancy merit exploration as these factors will shed light on knowledge, attitudes and perceptions towards teenage pregnancy. Understanding how teenagers make meaning of teenage pregnancy through their knowledge, attitudes and skills is important in particular if this understanding is viewed through the contributory factors to teenage pregnancy. Contributing factors to teenage pregnancy are important for this study as they will put the study in context and enable the researcher not to take the revisionist and reductionist approach towards teenage pregnancy. The reductionist and revisionist approaches to teenage pregnancy ignore other non-sexual factors that contribute to teenage pregnancy. The following contributing factors were apparent in this review of the literature and will be dealt with in the following sections: Family Relations Family is an important unit for socialisation as it enables the sharing of beliefs and ideals that lead to societal norms. Research indicates that family relations are an important aspect in teenage pregnancy rates. Eaton (2003) and Bhana (2004) found that teenagers with single parents were prone to risky sexual behaviour, and pregnancy compared to those with both parents. This may be attributed to issues to do with shared control and responsibility of both parents, whereas in single family parents control is vested in one parent. Family form becomes a protective condition to young people. Muchuruza (2000) concurs and puts forward that in Tanzania teenagers coming from single parent families have risky sexual behaviour and are more likely to become young parents. Where the single parent struggles to provide for the girl child, the girl is at greater risk of pregnancy as she has to look for means of survival and usually this is achieved through intergenerational relationships. The maj or reason why teenagers engage in intergenerational relationships with older men and women is that they see them as providers of social status symbols such as flashy cell phones and jewellery, while at the same time taking care of their basic needs. Such relationships jeopardize the health of the two people involved as the teenager is unable to negotiate for safe sex because of fear of losing their economic goals (Leclerc-Madlala, 2008). Most documented research on intergenerational relationships is between girls and sugar daddies. These sugar daddies feel that such relationships are transactional hence there is no need for them to use protection (ibid). Such relationships leave the teenager vulnerable to HIV and AIDS, pregnancy, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and to sexual manipulation. Bhanas (2004) Cape Town (South Africa) study found that 66% of the teenagers reported that family norms enabled them to have people to advise them on how to live a constructive life, while 55% said that availability of family members acted as source of control for their sexual behaviour. This is evidence that family relations play an important part in the behaviour of teenagers and most importantly their sexual behaviour. The presence of a responsible biological father encourages girls to delay their sexual debut and instils in boys a sense of sexual responsibility. Blum and Mmari (2005) point out that the presence of a male figure in a household and their attitude to sexual behaviour plays an important part in influencing teenagers sexual behaviour. They found that girls with father figures who were against premarital sex were less likely to engage in premarital sex and experience unplanned pregnancy, compared to those with father figures who had sexually permissive attitudes and those without fathers. In the same context, Lovings (1993) investigation into the connection between family relationships and teenage pregnancy in Durban (South Africa), established that warm relationships between fathers and their daughters played an important role in delaying young girls sexual initiation. Mfono (2008) holds the view that teenage girls whose mothers were teenage mothers themselves have a greater chance of being teenage mothers. Arai (2008) observed that in Britain and America, the daughter of a teenage mother is one and a half more likely to become a teenage mother herself than the daughter of an older mother. This, according to Hlabangana (2012) is due to the fact that these teenagers come from communities where it is normal to be a teenage mother, since almost everyone has been or is a teenage mother. The HRSCs 2008 study of perceptions towards teenage pregnancy in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban (South Africa) coincides with Hlabanganas assertion that teenage pregnancy has been normalised. According to the respondents of the HRSC study, non-pregnant teenagers are viewed as the other, and are asked when they too will be pregnant. Such attitudes make teenage pregnancy a way of life, and teenagers themselves view teenage pregnancy as a reality that forms a part of e veryday life rather than an alien occurrence (HRSC, 2008). This cycle self-perpetuates from one generation to another until it becomes acceptable and normal for teenagers to fall pregnant. The intergenerational cycle is a result of a lack of upward mobility; upward mobility is an individuals ability to rise above their current social or economic position (Hlabangana, 2012). Arai (2008) considers this low expectation on the part of teenagers, as one of the reasons that perpetuates the intergenerational cycle of teenage pregnancy. This she attributes to structural factors in deprived communities such as schools that fail to give teenagers a reason to feel entitled to anything. Knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of teenagers towards teenage pregnancy may be rooted in the lack of upward mobility that Arai refers to. Arai (2008) notes that in Britain, the low expectation argument for teenage pregnancy is a powerful one as evidenced by many British researchers (Garlick et al., 1993; Rosato, 1999; Selman, 1998; Smith, 1993; Wilson, 1991). She puts forward that in Britain, teenage pregnancy is very high amongst teenagers who do not have family support, come from broken homes, are raised by single parents, have difficulty with school and who come from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. According to Arai (2008), teenagers from such backgrounds have access to contraception and sexual health information, but display a deficiency in their knowledge of sexual health, proper contraceptive use, are shy to engage in sexual health communication and are wary to access services for sexual health. In a 1999 study in Northumberland, Britain, it was discovered that teenage parents had low educational achievement and low expectations of their future prior to their parenthood Arai (2009). She notes that these teenagers went on to have low paying jobs where they had to work long hours. In another Scottish study, (Smith,1993 in Arai, 2009) observed that teenagers from deprived backgrounds were six times likely to fall pregnant and then abort than their counter parts from well to do areas. These studies, validate Arai (2009) and Hlabanganas (2009) notion of upward mobility and entitlement for more on the part of the teenagers. Interestingly, Rutenberg et al. (2003:5) in their study of attitudes towards HIV and AIDS and teenage pregnancy in KZN (South Africa) discovered that for some adolescents, increasing opportunities and aspirations for education and employment, in addition to the perceived risk of HIV and pregnancy, results in many adolescents not wanting an early pregnancy. Rutenberg et al.s study, validates Arais (2008) and Hlabanganas (2009) assertion that teenagers with a low sense of upward mobility are most likely to find themselves as teenage parents while those with a high level of upward mobility are most likely to prevent themselves from early parenthood. This study will seek to unearth these varying dynamics in an effort to understand teenagers attitudes towards other teenagers who fall pregnant. economic status Pregnancies among teenagers are related to social problems, and this is predominant in developing countries and in particular poverty stricken communities. Risky sexual behaviours among teenagers are more likely to occur in poor families and those with single families. Lack of resources forces girls to become sexually involved in an effort to get material gains (Jewkes, Morrell Christofides, 2009). Hallman (2004) found that in South Africa low income families contributed to risky sexual behaviour among young people in both rural and urban areas. The study argues that low income accounts for girls decision to engage in risky sexual behaviour in trying to make ends meet. Macleod (2009) and Manzini (2009) concur with Hallman, and further add that young people from low economic statuses are most likely not to use condoms. This is attributed to lack of access to health services, reproductive health information and proper support structures from other social institutions. Teenagers who find themselves in intergenerational relationships find themselves unable to negotiate safe sex practices in fear of jeopardising their economic goals (Panday et al., 2009; Leclerc-Madlala, 2008). Many young women not only engage in risky sexual activities to meet their basic needs such as money, food and clothing, but also to satisfy wants such as expensive cell phones, high-class jewellery and rides in luxury cars (Hunter, 2002; Leclerc-Madlala, 2004). Chances of teenage pregnancy become high when the teenager comes from a home without adult supervision and most likely poor economic standing. Mfono (2003) confirms these arguments stating that teenagers are at high risk of pregnancy if they come from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, or if they succumb to peer pressure to engage in sexual activities for economic gain. On the other hand, teenage girls reject the transactional sex talk and state that they are able to make do with what is available without having to engage in intergenerational and transactional relationships with older partners. Sathiparsad and Taylors (2011) study of 335 girls and boys in eThekwini Secondary Schools in Durban (South Africa) revealed that girls view themselves as independent and rational thinkers. These girls suggested that they do not think that sex is synonymous with love, and assert their power as individuals by their ability to say no to unprotected sex. This is indicative of girls resisting manipulation and normative submission (ibid). For the purposes of this study, it will be interesting to find out how teenagers perceive economic status as a contributing factor to teenage pregnancy. Gender Dynamics The South African DoHs Policy Guidelines for Youth and Adolescent Health (2001) locates gender considerations as fundamental to the health of young people. The policy guidelines identify sexual health and sexual exploitation, sexual abuse, gender-based violence, coercive sex and gang rapes as areas of concern that put young women in particular at risk of HIV and AIDS and teenage pregnancy. Dunkle et al. (2004) in their study of young women attending ante-natal clinics in Soweto (South Africa) discovered that over half of the women aged between 15 and 30 years had been exposed to sexual violence. Another survey, conducted by the Planned Parenthood Association of South Africa (PPASA) in six of South Africas provinces, found that 20% of girls reported forced sexual encounters or were sexually assaulted (PPASA, 2003). Similarly, Vundule et al. (2001) found that 33% of girls in South Africa have their first intercourse as a result of force, including rape. Where there is unequal power distribution and lack of negotiation skills, pregnancy ceases to be a matter of choice. Sexual violence alters the power relations in any relationship, and in most cases women are vulnerable and unable to negotiate safe sex. Teenagers may avoid negotiating contraceptive usage, in particular condoms, for fear not only of violent reactions, but also of emotional rejection, of being labelled unfaithful or HIV positive (Wood, Maforah Jewkes, 1998). Furthermore, women attempting to use other invisible contraceptive methods, such as the injection, may be accused by their partners of causing infertility, disabled babies and vaginal

Quarter Reflection :: essays research papers

Reflective Paper Well, I would have to say things have changed for the better†¦.I think. This quarter I actually had some interest in what we were doing. I could do a lot of opinionated things like our reflection things. Normally your 3rd quarter is the worst but not this year in Mrs. Dickson’s College prep. English Class, I ended up doing all my work, well that I know of, and I participated in just about everything. So here we go, I am gonna sum it all up in these next few paragraphs. Our Miami portfolios were good and bad for me. I had my stuff where I could write what I wanted to write, and we had the crap that they wanted us to write about. We had the stuff where we could choose a poem or lyric and basically analyze it, and I loved it. I spoke my mind and had fun. Then again there was the other writing about a moment in time or a deep thought. Which I hated because I couldn’t BS my way through it. I personally don’t think this helped me at all, because I feel the same about writing as I did before and I don’t seem to write any better because of it. Well so far we are not too far into the whole college project. I have not learned much about colleges yet or I haven’t learned anything new from what I’ve already known. I planned on going to college at U.C. anyway and studying criminology and trying getting into the CIA or the FBI. And last we have â€Å"The Great Gatsby† personally can tell you I haven’t read much of it, and I’m not going to lie, I probably wont read it all. I will take my chances on the test and go from what I know and I think that I will do fine. It really doesn’t change me as a thinker, because the people back then are almost like

Pablo Ruiz Picassos Guernica :: Visual Arts Paintings Art

Pablo Ruiz Picasso's Guernica He was born in Malaga, Spain on October the twenty-fifth 1881 to Don Jose Ruiz Blascoand Dona Maria Picasso y Lopez. In 1897 Pablo was admitted to the Royal Academy of San Fernando, following in his father's foot steps tobecome an artist. During his life he painted many famous pieces however the 'Guernica' is arguably his best and most meaningful painting. After living a full life and having three children, he finally passed away on April the eighth at his villa in Mougins. In 1917, Picasso did the set and costume design for Serge Diaghilev's ballet "Parade." This contact with the theater world, as well as a trip to Italy, brought him back to figurative painting with a new interest in characters from the Italian comedy. He alternated this interest with his investigation into cubism. During the 1920s, Picasso continued to design theatre sets and painted in Cubist, Classical and Surreal modes. In late April of 1937, after hearing news of the saturation bombing of the civilian target of Guernica, Spain by the Nazi Luftwaffe, Picasso responded with his great anti-war painting, "Guernica." On April 26th 1937, a massive air raid by the German Luftwaffe on the Basque town of Guernica in Northern Spain shocked the world. Hundreds of civilians were killed in the raid which became a major incident of the Spanish Civil War. The bombing prompted Picasso to begin painting his greatest masterpiece... Guernica. The painting became a timely and prophetic vision of the Second World War and is now recognised as an international icon for peace. Despite the enormous interest the painting generated in his lifetime, Picasso obstinately refused to explain Guernica's imagery. Guernica has been the subject of more books than any other work in modern art and it is often described as..."the most important work of art of the twentieth century", yet its meanings have to this day eluded some of the most renowned scholars. The preoccupying theme of Guernica is of course death; reinforcing this, in the centre of the painting is a hidden skull which dominates the viewer's subliminal impressions. The skull is shown sideways and has been ingeniously overlaid onto the body of the horse, which is also a death symbol. The skull's mechanical appearance seems appropriate to the modern weaponry used in the 1937 bombing. Picasso often hid one or more related symbols within a particular image as Pablo Ruiz Picasso's Guernica :: Visual Arts Paintings Art Pablo Ruiz Picasso's Guernica He was born in Malaga, Spain on October the twenty-fifth 1881 to Don Jose Ruiz Blascoand Dona Maria Picasso y Lopez. In 1897 Pablo was admitted to the Royal Academy of San Fernando, following in his father's foot steps tobecome an artist. During his life he painted many famous pieces however the 'Guernica' is arguably his best and most meaningful painting. After living a full life and having three children, he finally passed away on April the eighth at his villa in Mougins. In 1917, Picasso did the set and costume design for Serge Diaghilev's ballet "Parade." This contact with the theater world, as well as a trip to Italy, brought him back to figurative painting with a new interest in characters from the Italian comedy. He alternated this interest with his investigation into cubism. During the 1920s, Picasso continued to design theatre sets and painted in Cubist, Classical and Surreal modes. In late April of 1937, after hearing news of the saturation bombing of the civilian target of Guernica, Spain by the Nazi Luftwaffe, Picasso responded with his great anti-war painting, "Guernica." On April 26th 1937, a massive air raid by the German Luftwaffe on the Basque town of Guernica in Northern Spain shocked the world. Hundreds of civilians were killed in the raid which became a major incident of the Spanish Civil War. The bombing prompted Picasso to begin painting his greatest masterpiece... Guernica. The painting became a timely and prophetic vision of the Second World War and is now recognised as an international icon for peace. Despite the enormous interest the painting generated in his lifetime, Picasso obstinately refused to explain Guernica's imagery. Guernica has been the subject of more books than any other work in modern art and it is often described as..."the most important work of art of the twentieth century", yet its meanings have to this day eluded some of the most renowned scholars. The preoccupying theme of Guernica is of course death; reinforcing this, in the centre of the painting is a hidden skull which dominates the viewer's subliminal impressions. The skull is shown sideways and has been ingeniously overlaid onto the body of the horse, which is also a death symbol. The skull's mechanical appearance seems appropriate to the modern weaponry used in the 1937 bombing. Picasso often hid one or more related symbols within a particular image as

Beach Burial Essay -- English Literature

Beach Burial Beach Burial says only that men die and are buried. Is this a fair evaluation of the poem? Beach Burial is a poem which deals with many issues, not only about men dying and being buried. This is by no means a fair evaluation of the poem. The poem in actual fact deals with the problems in war, and it encases a hidden meaning, which is equality. This poem dwells heavily on the problems in war. It describes how high the death toll is for both sides. Slessor uses â€Å"convoys of dead sailors† to show that all these dead body’s are very much alike, with their movements and feelings being the same. It also outlines a major problem in war, being able to identify and bury they dead properly. "And each cross, the driven stake of tide-wood, bears the last signature of m...

Learning for Life Essay

Introduction I work at Hindley HMP YOI, Europe’s largest juvenile estate, which caters for male 15 – 18 year olds. Its catchment area embraces prisoners from England and Wales, inclusive of the home counties. This results in a diverse population with a mixture of cultural and social backgrounds and range of life experiences. The course I teach is Social Life Skills to the academic standards of Adult entry level three and Adult level one. The education department within Hindley is committed to providing a learning environment where the physical, mental and emotional well-being of the learners is intrinsic to everything we do. The provision of the Social and Life Skills curriculum meets the outcomes in a number of ways through units such as Healthy Living, Healthy Eating/Food and Nutrition, Food Preparation/Hygiene and Introduction to Drug and Alcohol awareness. In particular, these units promote positive sexual health and relationship choices through education about STI’s, responsibilities in a relationship as well as challenging the increased risk of sexual activity under the influence of intoxicating substances. These units also highlight the physical and emotional risks of using both legal and illegal substances and encourage positive lifestyle choices. This paper intends to examine how the subject offers an experiential and learning forum designed to enhance academic learning, increase knowledge, build strategies and provide learning for life. However does the environment in which I teach can ultimately affect the end result? Experiential Learning Activities based around subjects such as ‘Healthy Lifestyles’ , ‘Drug and Alcohol Awareness’ and ‘Sexual Health awareness’ strengthen the practical  elements of the course and learners gain essential life skills that are an integral aspect of the overall aims. This encourages young people to think about the reasons for which they engage in risky behaviour and allows exploration of alternative ways of gaining, for example, confidence and excitement. Throughout the course I try to promote self-esteem of the learners and highlight that substance misuse is not the answer to their problems. The negative psychological effects on a person’s mental health are also discussed and learners are encouraged to think about this both short and long term. The course also addresses the physical effects that substance misuse can have on a person, encouraging awareness of the damage that can occur so that they can make positive choices to avoid drugs or alcohol in the future. This increases the young person’s awareness of consequences of risky behaviour and promotes positive choices in relation to avoiding harmful substances. â€Å"As many as 90% of prisoners have a diagnosable mental illness, substance abuse problem or, often both. Among young offenders and juveniles that figure is even higher, ninety five per cent† (Department of Health and Prison Service, 2001) The course also covers the importance of maintaining personal fitness in promoting good health and how this can be achieved. It also makes learners consider the basis of healthy eating and how to create healthy balanced meals. The skills and knowledge gained through the course should empower the learners with the ability to make positive lifestyle choices which they can then use in their everyday life upon release. An opportunity to have this learning experience is essential to them moving forward into further opportunities and avoiding distraction that could hinder their eventual progress. The design and development of the ‘Life Skills’ curriculum within Hindley HMP does not escape the influence of a social and political agenda. It is not education for purely academic motives or for expanding the educational perspectives of the learner. The course has a firm learning towards establishing society’s norms and expectations and avoiding anti-social and anti-establishment practices. The term ‘rehabilitation’ assumes that things have already gone wrong and requires intervention. The most dedicated teacher employing sound and universally recognised theoretical perspectives can become embroiled in the pursuit of good and productive citizenship. To assist and help our learner group requires the recognition that they are, in the main, troubled young people who are in danger. Amongst a range of issues, a lack of, or failure to engage in the educational process has been a contributing factor and in the main, they have missed out on inspirational teaching in their formative years. In addition, they may have not have experienced the influence of ‘significant other’ motivation and support within an education setting. â€Å"We all have a wealth of talent, skills, knowledge and unique personal qualities. In some of us, these gifts may be as yet untapped, unrecognised, hidden or ignored. † (Magrill, Sanderson and Short, 2005) A great deal of the information delivered on the courses within my subject are essential knowledge for all young people and can been seen as fundamental within the range of sub cultures in a juvenile prison setting. The course assessment criteria can evaluate that the student has studied to a specified degree through portfolio completion, an observable demonstration that learning has taken place. It is only through the delivery, encompassing an extensive range of discussion, sharing of experiences and remedial review that can provide insight into internalisation and understanding. The most difficult aspect to assess is the extent to which increased knowledge and awareness will lead to any significant changes in immediate or future behaviour. Experience indicates that to attempt to preach adherence to society’s norms or adoption of moralistic viewpoints may risk immediate rejection. Barriers Although many institutes of learning are subject to the influences from a range of issues including environmental, social, cultural and in some cases the extremes of deprivation, all these factors and more are compounded within the prison system. In addition, our service can be far greater influenced, restricted and inhibited by political conditions and learner inhibitions. The utilisation of an extensive range of planning, delivery and evaluation theory does not always ensure that learning takes place. In many cases, our service users are placing a much greater emphasis at the lower end of the Maslovian scale with physical and safety needs at a higher level of necessity than investing in the rehabilitation process of which education is a component. â€Å"What is necessary to change a person is to change his awareness of himself. † Abraham Maslow When a young person enters the prison system they enter an environment that imposes significant influences on their day to day lives. Aside from the regime that inflicts rigid routines and restriction, they are also subject to the overt and covert sub-cultural expectations and alliances required to conform within that distinctive community. Many of the young people have extensive experience of operation outside society’s norms in an environment where adherence to the group and its values is paramount. Therefore, the educational system tends not to be an ideal forum of a captive audience, keen to utilise their time to enhance knowledge they may view as irrelevant to their present of future lives. In order to be an effective teacher within such an environment requires a range of skills and abilities. The knowledge and understanding of teaching theory is a necessary component to enhance delivery and promote learning. It is vital also to fully embrace the principles of non-discriminatory and non-judgemental practice. In addition, the tutor needs to be aware of their own value system and ensure they do not taint their teaching. The individually developed process to connections and engagement can inhibit or enhance the bond of trust that increases the possibility of a credible acceptance of hypothesis and factual information yet with all components in place, there are no guarantees that learning will be viewed as necessary of valid. An example of this is a learner who achieved high standards in the ‘Healthy Lifestyles’ module. He fully understood the concepts of diet, exercise and safe sex practices. He put many of the theories he had learned into practice including an extensive exercise regime. However, when asked whether he would continue with his healthier approach he replied, â€Å"I doubt it. When I get out I will probably be back on the drugs and sleeping rough if I’m on the run! † He would return to the same environment as before prison with the same peer group. The influences would be far stronger and for him, the reality of his situation. Conclusion Many other issues that individually may not be unique can combine and contrive to create serious barriers to the learning process. In addition to the aforementioned factors, language barriers, cultural issues, regional and even postcode and gang affiliations all bring contrasting and sometimes conflicting agenda’s to the classroom. Due to operational issues, the instances of session or course interruptions can be greater than is the norm in most other forms of learning. The range of subject specific experience and knowledge can often match or even exceed the subject matter. In the case of drug awareness, a number of the learners have been heavily involved in the drug scene for a number of years. They have first -hand experience encompassing the range from heavy recreational use, through addiction and even sophisticated drug preparation and dealing. As a result of these and many other mitigating factors one could question the validity of presenting the course to the identified group within identified environment. On the contrary, I feel that these very barriers make it essential necessity to present the facts, issues, consequences and alternatives. This will enable the learners to make considered and educated choices in their present and future functioning. The teacher works within a prison environment needs to recognise the difficulties involved in attempting to provide a programme of life skills education without having the opportunity of observing of their topics of choice have or will have any long effect or trigger a real change in long term behaviour. It is vital that the educator remains confident that their contribution to the overall rehabilitation process is enhancing the prospects of the students to achieve their potential. In conclusion, Social Life Skills is not any exact science with predictable outcomes based on formulae or pre-determined rules of order. It’s effect and influence cannot be easily gauged nor can success be readily evaluated. Learning for life it certainly is with a hope that some if not all the students will utilise the learning to promote positive personal benefits. Bibliography * Inspiration: Your Ultimate Calling – Wayne W. Dyer p130 * Changing the Outlook – A Strategy for Developing and Modernising Mental Health Services in Prisons – p3 * Developing access to Skills for Life for offender learners with learning difficulties or disabilities – p27.

Crowd Management in Sport Facilities Essay

When conditions or circumstances warrant substantial levels of wariness, crowd management as a consequence becomes prudent. The key in getting a safe and comfortable environment for large packs of people is in planning for their management. There is considerable prominence on crowd management planning and implementation since it is important to provide a safe environment for everyone. Crowd management must take into account all the rudiments of an event especially the type of event, for example a circus, sporting, concert, or carnival event. It must also view characteristics of the facility, dimension and demeanor of the crowd, methods of entry, communications, crowd control, plus queuing (Herb, 1998). As in all management, it must also include planning, arranging, staffing, directing in addition to evaluating. Crowd management is best defined as every element of the game or event from the design of the stadium to the game itself as well as the protection of the customers from unforeseeable risk of danger from other persons or from the actual facility itself. The main criteria for gouging if crowd control procedures are sufficient and suitable depend on the kind of event, threats of aggression, existence and sufficiency of the emergency arrangement, expectation of crowd size in addition to seating arrangement, known rivalries among teams along with schools, and the use of security personnel (Herb, 1997). Crowd management is therefore paramount in sports facilities and venues because of the large masses that throng such places. Some facilities involve more sport management than others, thus would require more crowd management during functions. Venues should be primarily assessed for safety and its ability to hold large crowds. From the evaluation, the results should be processed, conclusions drawn, proposals made and a report written to all parties involved. The team that carries out such a task should be well trained in this area and used to dealing with all sorts of events, particularly sports. Reference Herb, A. (1998) Risk Management in Sport: Issues and Strategies. London, Carolina Academic Press Miller, L. (1997) Sport Business Management. New York, Jones & Barlett Publishers.

Db Forum

A. Springer Liberty University Organizational Design and Structure BUSBIES Dry. Johnny Maddox August 19, 2013 Q: Why is shared information so important in a learning organization in comparison to an efficient performance organization? A: Whenever you share information it promotes collaboration and communication between specific groups. It helps identify problems and solve particular issues within an organization. Sharing information, keeps the lines of communication open and the natural flow of ideas enhances learning, and keeps people connected.Sharing information ensures that all employees are aware of issues and serves the goal of open communication, equality, change, personal development, awareness and continuous improvement that will benefit the organization. A learning organization follows a horizontal structure and puts emphasis â€Å"self -directed teams,† which may include members from several functional areas. Frederick Taylor pioneered an efficient performance organ ization during the industrial revolution by retooling workers to improve efficiency and labor productivity (Daft, 2013, p. 5). These insights helped establish the role of management for maintaining stability and efficiency. Taylor created new standards for production through correct movements, tools, and proper sequencing, each laborer was able to pull the efficient load for the amount of time he was allowed (Daft, 2013, p. 26). In contrast, a learning organization would be viewed from a symbolic frame of reference. In this style of organization, the manager emphasizes â€Å"symbols, vision, culture and inspiration† (Daft, 2013, p. 26).In a learning organization the product is a trained or educated student, not a physical, manufactured product. Within a learning organization, shared information is as important as iron ore to an efficient performance organization. In the steel industry, iron ore makes steel. In a learning organization, shared information helps to manufacture a trained student. Not only is the organization providing information to the student, it is continuously trying to improve the learning process. Shared information is the key to the improvement process.An the efficient performance organization is based on a hierarchy of command in a more functional design. There is very little collaboration r overlapping responsibilities between people. Q: Discuss how an organization's approach to sharing information may be related to other elements of organization design such as: structure, tasks, strategy, and culture. A: Structure: Commonly work groups are structured to perform activities that work in the same group, from the bottom to the top of the organization. There is very little collaboration and control by upper level managers.This structure can have high efficiency in productions and in keep up with the problems and opportunities that face many companies in today's market. There has been a decrease in top senior positions to support financ e or human resources, teams are being organized as a work unit (Daft, 2013, p. 30). Tasks: Typically in organizations tasks are broken down into pieces of assigned work that are categorized into specialized and separate parts. With the control of tasks and the knowledge employees are expected to perform the tasks they are given.The efficient performance organization supports Job descriptions and Job functions that break down the task with clear expectations and performances, the learning objective initiates the creative and role concept. This role may constantly change and evolve as specific goals and objectives are being determined (Daft, 2013, p. 30). Strategy: The efficient performance organization defines the plan at the top of an organization that encompasses a vision and a mission statement. No input is usually added from the employees thus making upper management the only ones with influence or a voice in any matter.You have to see the future but create a plan in the present. Goals and strategies define the scope of the operation and the relationship among the employees, competitors and customers (Daft, 2013, p. 0). Culture: An efficient performance organization may use old school techniques and motivation to. The learning organization promotes improvement, change, openness, equality, and is sometimes described as a family environment where the employees are treated with respect and embraced for their leadership qualities (Daft, 2013, p. 20-21).Q: What are some differences that one might anticipate among the expectations of stakeholder for a nonprofit organization versus a for-profit business? A: The biggest difference between these two kinds of stakeholders is the expectation for financial reward. Non-profit organizations are not expected to make any profit through its operations so the stakeholders don't expect this but stakeholders in profit making organizations expect the company to make profits for their benefit. Both models have to generate a prof it in order to survive and grow.In addition, both have to generate money to pay their bills. If a corporation is to acquire new assets it will need profits to grow so they can invest. With a non profit, contributions from corporations and from other people can be used to invest (Daft, 2013, p. 13). Q: Do you believe nonprofit managers have to pay more attention to stakeholders than business managers? A: Managers for nonprofit companies need to pay attention to the business because when they do not get contributions they may not be able to meet operating cost for the business.Also, managers direct their activities towards earning money for the company and while managers direct their efforts toward generating some kind of social impact for stakeholders (Archie ; Shebang, 2009, p. 85). Q: How might a company's goals for employee development be related to its goals for innovation and hangs? How might a company's goals for employee development be related to its goals for productivity? Ex plain the ways that these types of goals may conflict in an organization? A: Employee development helps to maintain a trained, motivated and committed workforce so that they are able to respond to innovation and change.Employees are able to produce goods and services and some goals may initially cause a decrease in profit and because employee development can be costly. Goals goal and implement strategies for productivity that can be approached differently by employees. This can also cause conflict, but the best plan can be determined by trial and error. Symptoms of structural deficiency can appear as a result of too many problems and to many decisions related to those problems, if the hierarchy delegates responsibility to the lower levels it still may be insufficient.Different organizational structures need to use innovation to accompany all aspects of decision making, ranging from what the marketing department may need to what the research department may need. If the structure does not define clear goals, responsibilities ND mechanisms for coordination, a decline in employee performance can occur. If you have too much conflict you must combine all goals to encase the entire organization ( Daft, 2013, p. 108-109). Q: Suppose you have been asked to evaluate the effectiveness of the police department in a medium-sized community.Where would you begin? How would you proceed? What effectiveness approach would you prefer? A: This question can be answered by many different approaches, you can identify the goals, resources, and the internal process of the department since the apartment is a social organization as well as part of the government, and the community, the overall satisfaction of the employees also helps assess the department for its overall satisfaction. Q: What types of organizational activities do you believe are most likely to be outsourced?A: Organizations prefer to outsource their IT functions like website development, software upgrading, data feeding , and data warehousing. The human resources department and business processes function to perform like recruitment, secretarial service, payroll, accounting, keeping, maintaining invoice, management of taxes and auditing to in compliance with corporate governance. They may even outsource recruitment, hiring, and employee training (Daft, 2013, p, 101-102).Q: What types are least likely? A: The least likely portion of an organization to be outsourced would probably be sales and marketing, these things matter more to the core structure of the organization. Company employees have a better understanding of the industry and they invest their interest in the company with the decisions they make for the benefit f the company's overall goals (Daft, 2013, p. 102). Q: How can/should a biblical worldview be applied?A: â€Å"If among you, one of your brothers should become poor, in any of your towns within your land that the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart or shut y our hand against your poor brother, but you shall open your hand to him and lend him sufficient for his need, whatever it may be. Take care lest there be an unworthy thought in your heart and you say, ‘The seventh year, the year of release is near,' and your eye look grudgingly on your poor brother, and you give him nothing, ND he cry to the Lord against you, and you be guilty of sin.You shall give to him freely, and your heart shall not be grudging when you give to him, because for this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake. For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore I command you, You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your above passage, it advocates we give to those that are poor or more needy ourselves. It says we should give to charity freely which in turn helps non-profit organizations roved for those that need help, likewise we can give leadership by providing our time and experience in helping that agency.

Main Theme of Lord of the Flies Essay

I think William Golding purposely chose the same setting as The Coral Island, but with a different ending of course, showing readers that us humans beings, as hard it might be to admit, unfortunately we have a wicked side and without supervision castigation to keep it in check. This sophisticated society that we live in would’ve turned into a barbaric anarchy instantly and still today, we have people who choose to ignore the civilization, take the risk and act like savages despite the â€Å"sophisticated society† but those people end up in jail. One of the major themes, isolation. What better way can you put it? The boys are stranded on an island, not mentioning the fact that they are still kids, innocent kids without adult supervision. This was obviously slowly making them hopeless as they realize that there is no way they’ll be rescued. But if you give it some thought, the island is similar to our society in many ways. Firstly, Golding makes the conch delineate power and authority, like the government today, because whoever held the conch in the story had the authority to speak. That rule is official when Ralph says â€Å"And another thing. We can’t have everybody talking at once. We’ll have to have hands up like at school then I’ll give him the conch.† (Golding 31) This shows the effort Ralph was putting into bringing rules and order so it could bring all the other boys closer together as a society. The island is basically a microcosm, Golding uses it to imitate our world while giving comments and his own view of human nature and how it is. For that to happen, he uses objects that are symbolic referring to his ideas like the previous example I gave about the Government. Golding also uses the characters that duplicate historical and/or religious people and finally the setting where all the conflicts happen, having parallels in the real world and society. The boys show what happened in the story isn’t just a story. They help present Goldings belief that humankind is savage and evil under all that civilization. So, Lord of the flies is a microcosm, just in a smaller civilization. The physical location (the remote island) which Golding set to serve the theme of constructing civilisation. However, as the stranded boys progressed on this island together, savagery eventually invaded their instincts and this helped develop the theme of loss of innocence. Again, this story was set on an isolated island, it had all you needed, food, wood for shelter and fire and no dangerous animals, there werent any humans either, the boys were probably the first to set a foot on this island. As Ralph, Jack and Simon were climbing the hill for the first time together, they noticed the tracks and started wondering who them. They started following. â€Å"Animals† were Ralph’s answer. The setting here was kind of like paradise for the boys, it took all of society’s rules and orders on behavior and allowed the boys to do whatever they want, since they were in charge this time.