Nursing Education and Competency Essay

Nursing Education and Competency The purpose of this paper is to explore the different paths of education to become a registered nurse. Specially, to examine the educational tracks of the Associate Degree nurse and the Baccalaureate Degree nurse. The question at hand is how do these educational paths differ in the level of competency? First, I will show the difference in educational structure and then examine how these relate to the competency of the nurse following completion of each program. The Associate Degree in nursing came about during the 1950s in an effort to combat a nursing shortage in the Unites States following World War II. An Associate Degree nursing program is a two-year program that is typically affordable and offered at a junior or community college. The focus of this program is â€Å"on the basic sciences and theoretical and clinical courses related to the practice of nursing† (Potter & Perry, 2005, p. 16). It prepares the student for â€Å"competent technical bedside† nursing in â⠂¬Å"secondary care settings† (Cresia & Friberg, 2011, p. 33). Following completion of the two-year program, the student is eligible to take the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination) and can achieve a license as a registered nurse. The first Baccalaureate Degree in nursing was â€Å"established in the United States at the University of Minnesota in 1909† (Cresia & Friberg, 2011, p. 25). It consists of a four-year program on a university or college campus with a larger financial attachment. There are typically two years of general education requirements followed by two years of upper-level nursing education courses. In addition to the basic science, theory and clinical education the program â€Å"include courses in community and public health, beginning research, management and leadership (Cherry & Jacob, 2005, p. 81). It prepares the student to become a â€Å"professional nurse generalists for acute care settings, community-based practice, and beginning leadership/management positions† (Cresia & Friberg, 2011, p. 33). Following the completion of the program, the student is also eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to receive licensure. Do these two years of additional education make a more competent nur se? â€Å"Over the past several years, policy makers, researchers, and practice leaders have identified that education does make a difference in how nurses practice† (Johnston, 2009). The University of Pennsylvania in an issue of Medical Care released one such  study that supports this in October, 2012 (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2012). It states that: surgical patients in Magnet hospitals had 14% lower odds of inpatient death within 30 days and 12% lower odds of failure-to-rescue compared with patients cared for in non-Magnet hospitals. The study authors conclude that these better outcomes were attributed in large part to investments in highly qualified and educated nurses, including a higher proportion of baccalaureate prepared nurses. (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2012) The current healthcare environment is changing through federal policy, technological advancements, and a growing global multicultural population. These additional years of education are believed to â€Å"enhance the students professional development, prepares the new nurse for a broader scope of practice, and provides the nurse with a better understanding of the cultural, political, economic, and social issues that affect patients and influence† (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2012). The four-year baccalaureate program offers more education to develop these skills giving the nurse the ability to adapt and contribute to these continual changes. Let us now use the following patient care situation of a newly diagnosed patient with Diabetes Mellitus Type II to explore the differences of an Associate Degree nurse (ADN) and Baccalaureate Degree nurse (BNS). A newly diagnosed diabetic needs teaching, the focus of this example will be on how the AND verses a BSN would approach teaching. As stated previously the ADN is prepared at a more technical level, although they share the same basic science and theory as a BSN. After explaining the basics of disease process to the patient, the ADN primary focus may be on the methods of testing blood glucose levels, the correct techniques for drawing up insulin and administration. This is due to the fact that the bulk of their educational training encompassed technical nursing. They would consider proper aseptic techniques for finger stick testing while teaching. Interrupting the results and applying it to a sliding scale of insulin related to food intake and activity. Then teaching the method of drawing up insulin, administration, and sharps disposal. A BSN nurse would teach the basics of the disease process taking the patient’s learning modality into consideration before starting. What is the patient’s ability to learn? Is the patient ready to learn? What is the best method for teaching (audio, visual, written material, or discussion)? What is the  family dynamic and should the family be involved in the teaching? Are there any cultural considerations? The BSN nurse might be inclined to research the topic of teaching new diabetics and find some current evidence based literature to assist in providing the best possible care for this patient. All of these items would have to be taken into consideration before moving onto the task of blood glucose testing, interpreting results and administering insulin. The example above is just a brief look into the thought process that comes with the different tracks of nursing education. A BNS nurse has a larger knowledge base to work from applying critical thinking, evidence based research and cultural consideration into their daily practice. They also possess some of the qualifications to move toward nursing positions in leadership and management. Research is leaning toward the idea that a nurse that has received a Baccalaureate Degree makes for a more competent nurse. National nursing associations support this thought. Policy makers are privy to this information as well. What seems to be a topic of debate now could soon become a reality and change how we educate future nurses. References American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2012, October 24). The impact of education on nursing practice. Retrieved from http://www.aacn.nche.edu/media-relations/fact-sheets/impact-of-education. Cherry, B., & Jacob, S. R. (2005). Contemporary Nursing: Issues, Trends, and Management (3 rd ed.). St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier, Inc. Cresia, J. L., & Friberg, E. (2011). Conceptual Foundations: The Bridge to Professional Nursing Practice, (5 th ed.). http://dx.doi.org/. Johnston, K. A. (2009). The Importance of Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing Education. Retrieved October 2, 2013, from http://www.peoriamagazines.com/ibi/2009/apr/importance-baccalaureate-degree-nursing-education Potter, P. A., & Perry, A. G. (2005). Fundementals of Nursing (6 th ed.). St. Louis, Missouri: Mosby, Inc.

Vsm Group: Examination of Strategic Position and Development of a Competitive Strategy

1. INTRODUCTION Johnson, Scholes and Whittington (2005, p. 9) define strategy as the direction and scope of an organisation over the long term, which achieves advantage in a changing environment through its configuration of resources and competencies with the aim of fulfilling stakeholder expectations. Strategy is therefore the long term direction of an organisation. Strategic Management can be defined as the art and science of formulating, implementing, and evaluating cross-functional decisions that enable an organisation to achieve its objectives (David 1999, p. ). Strategic management therefore focuses on the activities of the organisation that contribute to the achievement of organisational success. These activities include management, marketing, financial management, operations management, research and development, and information systems. The strategic position of the VSM will be analysed by applying the analytical models of strategic management to the current situation in the company. The following models will be used to analyse both the internal and external environment of the company, namely, PESTEL, Five Forces Model, and the SWOT analysis The examination of the strategic position of VSM will involve analysing the strategy of the company with emphasis on the environment it operates in, its strategic capabilities, and how expectations affect organisational purposes and strategies. The analysis will conclude with a clear statement of the Key Issues and Critical Success factors. The strategic position of VSM will then be used as a base to develop an appropriate competitive strategy for the company. The development of the strategy will also take into account the organisational cultural issues prevailing in the company. 2. COMPANY OVERVIEW The VSM (Viking Sewing Machines) Group AB engages in the development, production, marketing, and sale of household sewing machines and related accessories, and software (BusinessWeek, 2008. VSM Group AB: Private Company Information, [internet]). The VSM Group currently has two brands, namely, Husqvarna Viking and Pfaff. The company produces several lines of sewing machines, the top being the Designer series and the lowest being the mechanical (non-computerised) Huskystars (Wikipedia 2007 [internet]). The company has manufacturing facilities in Sweden and the Czech Republic and produces top-of-the-line household sewing machines with related accessories and software. Each brand has its own unique and separate product line. According to BusinessWeek (VSM Group AB: Private Company Information, [internet]) the company was founded in 1689 and is headquartered in Huskvarna, Sweden. It has offices in many countries including Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Finland, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Japan, Norway, Russia, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Holland, and the United States of America. As of February 2006 the company was acquired by Singer Sewing Company (BusinessWeek, 2008. VSM Group AB: Private Company Information, [internet]). 3. STRATEGIC POSITION OF THE VSM GROUP The strategic position is concerned with the impact on strategy of the external environment, an organisation’s strategic capability (resources and competences) and the expectations and influence of stakeholders (Johnson et al 2005, p. 17). The strategic position of VSM Group will be examined by utilising the following factors, namely, the influence/impact of macro-environmental issues to the strategy, understanding the company’s strategic capability and how this strengthens the company’s competitive advantage, and thirdly how expectations shape organisational purposes and strategies. The impact of the macro-environment will be analysed using the PESTEL framework, Porter’s Five Forces Model, SWOT analysis and the competitive nature of VSM Group’s home base of Sweden. PESTEL identifies six main types of environmental influences, namely, political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal. Each influence will be discussed hereunder. 3. 1. PESTEL Political variables †¢ Political stability in Sweden and the United States. †¢ The prevalence of foreign trade regulations in the USA. Economic variables †¢ Decline in demand for sewing machines in past two decades. †¢ Decline in industry profitability. †¢ Low sales in respect of Pfaff within three years of acquisition. †¢ High production costs in the German Pfaff plant. †¢ Investment by Juki and other industry players into the US market. Socio-cultural factors †¢ Not using a consultant for the strategic planning weekend meeting made the strategy process unstructured and was a shift from the company’s way of doing things. †¢ Encouraging participation in the strategy process by middle management through a series of seminars. †¢ The adoption of the strategy document changed workers’ attitudes. The strategy document served as a guide on operational matters. The mission statement was frequently promoted in the company’s public relations. †¢ Focus shift from technical features to customer satisfaction. Technological variables Extended support for business development to encourage retailers to carry the Husqvarna Viking product line exclusively. †¢ Cooperation with Jo-Ann Fabrics & Crafts, a large retailer of fabrics with over a thousand stores throughout the USA, setting up small sewing machine outlets inside their fabric stores. This lead to the introduction of ‘after-ma rket’ services such as training in sewing techniques, software for embroidery construction and ready-made embroidery patterns, spare parts and auxiliary sewing equipment. These after-market services are run by retailers. Customers were willing to pay as much as five to six thousand dollars on a three day course with a sewing expert. †¢ A new accounting system was installed in May 1999. †¢ The marketing and the technical development department also moved into the same office building in January 2000. This ensures that the two departments operate in sync from conception of product ideas to production and ultimately, the marketing of the product. †¢ Introduction of the Designer I model of sewing machine in 1999. The model made use of software to control the machine and contained no less than eight motors to cater for all functions. Customers could download upgrades from the internet site, save it onto the floppy disk that comes with the Designer I package and slide it into the built-in disk drive. This method of upgrading performance was new for sewing machines. †¢ The acquisition of Embroidery Networks Ltd (Emnet) in March 1999. Emnet produced software for PC-controlled professional sewing. With the advent of the internet people could exchange embroidery patterns through the internet or download them at the VSM website. VSM also expanded the number of software engineers from 3 to 17. Environmental variables Manufacture of environmentally friendly sewing machines. †¢ Manufacture of machines which do not consume much electricity. Legal variables †¢ Quality machines which are safe to use. †¢ Flexible labour legislation in Sweden and the USA. †¢ The mission statement pronouncement on the provision of growth opportunities for employees. 3. 2. Five Forces Model Porter identifies five basic f orces that can act on the organisation, namely, (1) the bargaining power of suppliers, (2) the bargaining power of buyers, (3) the threat of potential new entrants, (4) the threat of substitutes, and (5) the extent of competitive rivalry. The objective of the analysis is to investigate how VSM Group needs to form its strategy in order to develop opportunities in its environment and protect itself against competition and other threats. The bargaining power of suppliers The VSM Group restructured its operations when Pfaff in Germany and the Zetina plant in Czech Republic were taken over. Parts were now obtained from local suppliers and those from the Far East. This resulted in the reduction of costs by 50 per cent on key machine components concurrent with large improvements in quality and rejection rates. In this respect the suppliers’ bargaining power can be said to low. The bargaining power of buyers Buyers of VSM Group sewing machines have low bargaining power because the buyers are not concentrated in one geographical area. VSM is an international company and has a wide customer base. The products from VSM are greatly differentiated and therefore cannot be regarded as the same as those from other industry players. The threat of VSM Group buyers switching to other manufacturers is low. The threat of potential new entrants The ease with which new companies can enter the sewing and embroidery industries will increase the intensity of competitiveness among industry companies. High unit costs of production may present barriers to entry because they mean that any new entrant has to come in on a large scale in order to achieve the low cost levels of those already present in the industry. The current high technological advancements and innovation levels in VSM Group, strong customer loyalty to VSM Group, strong brand name, large initial capital requirements, government regulatory frameworks in Sweden and the USA, and superior products create barriers to entry for potential new entrants. The threat of substitutes The threat posed by substitute products by other manufacturers can be countered by continuous investment in technology and ‘after-market’ services by the VSM Group. The extent of competitive rivalry The sewing machine and embroidery industries are more competitive than other industries. The intensity of rivalry in the industry has increased with the coming into the industry of major manufacturing companies from the Far East. The decline in the demand for sewing machines and price cutting by VSM Group also increased rivalry among industry players. The differences in company strategies, origins (Europe and Far East) and culture (European and Japanese) increases rivalry as well. As rivalry among competing firms intensifies, industry profits decline, in some cases to the point where an industry becomes inherently unattractive (David 1999, p. 128). This statement manifests itself in the number of major manufacturers (Singer and Pfaff) who are going bankrupt. 3. 3. Identification of Key Issues: SWOT ANALYSIS A SWOT analysis summarises the key issues from the business environment and the strategic capability of an organisation that are most likely to impact on strategy development (Johnson et al 2005). It analyses the internal strengths and weaknesses, and external opportunities and threats. The following is a SWOT analysis of the VSM Group AB. SWOT analysis of VSM Group AB |Internal Strengths |Internal Weaknesses | |Market dominance in Europe. |Dependence on few product ranges. | |Leadership and management skills. |High production costs. | |Financial and cash resources. |Reliance on retailers for distribution. | |Manufacturing ability. |Lack of industry information. |Innovation processes and results. |Possession of two brands that compete in the same market. | |Reputation. | | |Product and service quality. | | |Differentiated brands. | | |One European currency – Euro. | | |External Opportunities |External Threats | |New markets and segments. |New market entrants. | |Free market economies arising in Asia. |Increased competition. | |Diversification opportunities. |Increased pressure from customers and suppliers. | |New takeover opportunities. |Substitutes. | |International growth. |Low market growth. | |Increased demand for sewing machines. |Economic cycle downturn. | |Competitor weakness. |Technological threat. | |Demographic and social change. |Change in political or economic environment. | |New international barriers to trade. | 3. 4The competitive nature of VSM’s home country What has become known as Porter’s Diamond suggests that there are inherent reasons why some nations are more competitive than others, and why some industries within nations are more competitive than others (Johnson 2005, p. 71). The model will be used to examine how the home base of VSM i. e. Sweden plays an important role in creating competitive advantage on a global scale for VSM. The following four decisive elements are identified: †¢ Availability of strengths in certain fields especially the automation and technological fields. The technological advancements made by the VSM Group in its Swedish operation since the beginning of the millennium gives it a competitive advantage over its rivals and enable it to compete internationally. †¢ High demand in the Sweden for VSM Group sewing machines provides the basis upon which the characteristics of the advantage of the company are shaped and leads to global dominance of the industry by VSM. †¢ Related and supporting industries in the Swedish economy, . e. , the presence of Bernina Fritz Gegauf AG means that the two companies benefit from each other. Bernina enjoyed a solid reputation and their product range resembled that of VSM with their top model accepting embroidery files developed for other brands including VSM. All these factors made Bernina an important quality benchmark for VSM. †¢ Domest ic rivalry with Bernina and the need by both companies to search for competitive advantage helped to provide the two companies with bases for achieving such advantage on a global scale. 3. 5. Foundations of strategic capability According to Johnson et al (2005, p. 17) strategic capability can be defined as the adequacy and suitability of the resources and competences of an organisation for it to survive and prosper. The strategic capability of a company refers to the resources that the organisation has and the way in which these resources are used. Resources and competences VSM’s resources can be considered under the following four broad categories: †¢ Physical resources – manufacturing plants in Sweden, USA and the Czech Republic. †¢ Financial resources – operating cash, budgets. †¢ Human resources – average number of employees (1,689). The intangible resources will refer to the skills and knowledge that the employees possess. †¢ Intellectual capital – the brand name VSM Group AB, business systems and customer databases. Threshold capabilities Threshold capabilities are those essential for the organisation to be able to compete in a given market (Johnson et al 2005). VSM’s threshold resources refer to: internet based developments, the acquired software company Emnet, increased number of engineers, and Pfaff. Unique resources and core competences The design of the VSM sewing machines make them unique resources in hat they give the company competitive advantage and other manufacturers find it difficult to imitate or copy the designs. VSM’s core competences refer to: the ‘Dealer-Partners’ programme, the cooperation with Jo-Ann Fabrics & Crafts, and the accompanying introduction of the ‘after-market’ services. All these strategies give VSM a competitive advantage. 3. 6 . Organisational culture analysis Johnson et al (2005, p. 47) define culture as the basic assumptions and beliefs that are shared by members of an organisation, that operate unconsciously and define in a basic taken-for-granted fashion an organisation’s view of itself and its environment. Every organisation has a culture and it includes values, beliefs, rites, language, metaphors, symbols and rituals. Culture derives from VSM’s past, present, current people, technology and physical resources, aims, objectives and values of those who work in the organisation. These cultural products can be used by strategists at VSM to influence and direct strategy formulation, implementation, and evaluation activities. The following cultural factors specific to VSM have been identified: †¢ The strategy process was changed to include, for the first time, both top and middle management. The involvement of middle managers had a positive effect on operations in that the strategy document was referred to as a guide on operational matters and the mission statement was frequently promoted in VSM’s public relations exercises. The strategy document was also regarded as an ongoing process which could be changed in response to changing situations in the company. †¢ Retailers were transformed into ‘Dealer-Partners’ which included extended business support to retailers to encourage them to deal only with the Husqvarna Viking product line. In the USA, VSM entered into a cooperation agreement with Jo-Ann Fabrics & Crafts to set up small sewing machine outlets inside their fabric stores. This lead to the introduction of ‘after-market’ services such as training in sewing techniques, software for embroidery construction and ready-made embroidery patterns, spare parts and auxiliary sewing equipment. These after-market services are run by retaile rs. Customers were willing to pay as much as five to six thousand dollars on a three day course with a sewing expert. In support of the company’s strategy the top management of the company was changed to accommodate the managers of the national sales companies as well as the marketing vice president. †¢ The operating systems also underwent major changes. A new accounting system was installed in May 1999 to assess accounting information in new ways to keep track of the various activities in the value chain. †¢ The acquisition of Pfaff upset some employees and pleased others. The company now had two brands which were competing for the same market. Former competitors were now brought to the same stable and the company faced a challenge of how to keep them apart on other dimensions than price and quality. †¢ The relocation of the German Karlsruhe operation to the Swedish Huskvarna plant resulted in only a handful of research and development engineers staying on. The company had to re-orientate the German engineers into the Swedish way of doing things since the engineering principles of the two countries were fundamentally different. 4. FORMULATION OF COMPETITIVE STRATEGY Long-term objectives represent the results expected from pursuing certain strategies (David 1999, p. 76). Strategies represent the actions to be taken to accomplish long-term objectives (David 1999, p. 176). Objectives take the generalities of the mission statement and turn them into more specific commitments: usually this will cover what is to be done and when the objective is to be completed (Lynch 2003, p. 440). Objectives will therefore possess the foll owing characteristics, namely, they should be measurable, realistic, understandable to all, hierarchical, achievable, and should contain time frames. Clearly communicated objectives, according to David (1999, p. 77), are vital to the success of the company as they provide a basis for consistent decision making by company managers and help stakeholders understand their role in the company. Formulating the competitive strategy for the VSM Group will consist of aligning the internal resources and skills and the external opportunities and risks. The alignment will make use of the Threats-Opportunities-Weaknesses-Strengths (TOWS) Matrix. The TOWS matrix will be developed based on the information obtained in the SWOT analysis of the VSM Group and will identify options that address different combination of the internal factors (strengths and weaknesses) and the external factors (opportunities and threats). 4. 1. Critical Success Factors: TOWS MATRIX Johnson et al (2005, p. 96) define criti cal success factors (CSFs) as the product features that are particularly valued by a group of customers and, therefore, where the organisation must excel to outperform competition. Critical success factors relate to the aspects of the competitive strategy in which a company must excel. The TOWS Matrix identifies four types of strategies, namely, SO Strategies, WO Strategies, ST Strategies, and WT Strategies. SO Strategies make use of the company’s internal strengths to take advantage of the external opportunities. WO Strategies take advantage of external opportunities to improve internal weaknesses. ST Strategies make use of the company’s strengths to avoid or reduce the impact of external threats. WT Strategies are defensive tactics directed at reducing internal weaknesses and avoiding environmental threats (David 1999, p. 81). The VSM Group TOWS Matrix | |Strengths (S) |Weaknesses (W) | |INTERNAL |Market dominance in Europe. |Dependence on few product ranges. | |FACTORS |Leadership and management skills. |High production costs. | |(IFAS) |Financial and cash resources. |Reliance on retailers. |EXTERNAL FACTORS |Manufacturing ability. |Lack of industry information. | |(EFAS) |Innovation processes and results. | | |Opportunities (O) |SO Strategies |WO Strategies | |New markets and segments. |Continued investment in Europe and the USA. |Explore new products and ranges. | |Free market economies arising in Asia. Penetrate high-end embroidery segment further. |Exploit mergers and takeovers. | |Diversification opportunities. | |Abandon high cost operations. | |New takeover opportunities. | |Diversify into new markets in Europe and Asia. | |International growth. | |Enhance retailer network which focuses on hobby | |One European currency – Euro | |segment. |Threats (T) |ST Strategies |WT Strategies | |New market entrants. |Emphasise after-market sales of accessories and |Withdraw from declining markets, etc. Germany. | |Increased competition. |software. |Increase brand awareness in current markets. | |Increased pressure from customers and suppliers. |Continued investment in Europe and the USA. |Reduce reliance on retailers. | |Substitutes. |Build on current management capacity. Where possible, develop barriers for new | |Low mar ket growth. | |entrants. | 2. Strategic options at VSM Group AB Development directions are the strategic options available to an organisation, in terms of products and market coverage, taking into account the strategic capability of the organisation and the expectations of stakeholders (Johnson et al 2005, p. 340). The following strategic options are proposed for the VSM Group: 1. Protect and build on current position Consolidation Consolidation is where organisations protect and strengthen their position in their current markets with current products (Johnson et al 2005, p. 342). The sewing market situation is forever changing and requires industry players to continuously innovate to improve the value of the products. The threat of new competitors or new entrants into the sewing industry means that VSM has to pay particular attention to how the company’s resources and skills should be adapted and developed to maintain its competitive advantage. Withdrawal by VSM from the German market should be regarded as consolidation. Market penetration A market penetration strategy seeks to increase market share for present products or services in present markets through greater marketing efforts (David 1999, p. 50). VSM should therefore strive to penetrate the high-end embroidery market further by utilising aggressive marketing efforts. These efforts should be focused on existing markets in the countries mentioned in the company overview. 2. Product development Product development refers to significant new product developments and not minor variations on an existing product. According to David (1999, p. 51) product development is a strategy that seeks to increase sales by improving or modifying present products or services. Continued development and innovation on the Designer series will counter new entrants into the market, will maintain the company’s reputation as an innovator, and will protect the company’s overall market share. 3. Market development Market development is where existing products are offered in new markets (Johnson et al 2005, p. 46). This may involve seeking new market segments, new geographical areas, or new uses for its products that will bring in new customers. Expansion to bring in new customers to the company for its existing company could involve some slight repackaging and then promotion to a new market segment. It will often involve selling the same product in new international markets, especially i n China and Asia. 4. Diversification: related markets Diversification is defined as a strategy that takes an organisation away from both its current markets and products (Johnson et al 2005, p. 46). When an organisation diversifies, it moves out of its current markets and products into new areas. Diversification carries with it an element of risk as it involves a step into the unknown. Moving into related markets however minimises the risk. VSM can diversify into related markets by becoming involved in the activities of its outputs such as distribution, transport, and logistics. 3. Methods of strategy development at VSM Group AB (Action Plan) A development method is the means by which any strategic direction will be pursued (Johnson et al 2005, p. 348). For an international company, VSM can use the following means of pursuing its strategic direction: acquisition and mergers, joint ventures and alliances, franchising, licensing, overseas offices, and overseas manufacture. 1. Acquisition and mergers Acquisition is where strategies are developed by taking over ownership of another organisation (Johnson et al 2005, p. 349). According to David (1999, p. 59), an acquisition occurs when a large organisation purchases a smaller one and vice versa. Mergers occur when two organisations of similar size unite to form one enterprise. The acquisition of Pfaff by the VSM Group represented a coup for VSM. The VSM Group had in its stable two strong brands that competed for the same market space. Acquisitions of manufacturing companies in the Far East would also assist VSM to break into new markets (market development), new technologies, and low cost raw materials. 2. Joint ventures and alliances A strategic alliance is where two or more organisations share resources and activities to pursue a strategy (Johnson et al 2005, p. 353). It is a form of weaker contractual agreement between two parent companies. A joint venture is the formation of a company whose shares are owned jointly by two parent companies (Lynch 2003, p. 483). In order to diversify into related markets and to access new markets like those in the Far East it will be crucial for VSM to form joint ventures and strategic alliances with current manufacturers namely, Brother, Janome or Juki. These types of agreements lock out other competitors, utilises joint expertise and commitment, and allows potential partners to learn about each other. 3. Franchise A franchise is a form of licensing agreement in the contractor provides the licensee with a pre-formed package of activity (Lynch 2003, p. 484). The package may include offers of the VSM Group brand name to retailers, technical service expertise and advertising assistance. This can be an attractive proposition to retailers willing to take up a franchise licence as it possesses lower risk and provides exclusive territory to the franchisee. This will also enhance dealer network which focuses on the hobby segment of the market 4. Licensing According to David (2003, p. 84) licensing refers to a situation where technology or other assets are provided under licence from the home country. Payment for such services is usually in the form of royalty or some form of arrangement. 5. Overseas offices The VSM Group has sales companies and representative offices in Europe, Russia, North America and Australia. The VSM Group could gain competitive advantage by expanding their operations into the Far East and Africa. These additional offices would provide a permanent presence for the VSM Group in those new markets. 6. Overseas manufacture The VSM Group currently has two manufacturing plants in Sweden and the Czech Republic. The establishment of new manufacturing plants in overseas countries like the USA carries risks for the company. However the risks may be offset through the savings that could be derived from no longer having to export to those overseas countries. 4. CONCLUSION Strategy was defined as the direction and scope of an organisation over the long term, which achieves advantage in a changing environment through its configuration of resources and competencies with the aim of fulfilling stakeholder expectations. Strategic Management was also defined as the art and science of formulating, implementing, and evaluating cross-functional decisions that enable an organisation to achieve its objectives. The strategic position of the VSM Group AB was analysed by applying the analytical models of strategic management to the current situation in the company. The following models were utilised to analyse both the internal and external environment of the company, namely, PESTEL, Five Forces Model, and the SWOT analysis. The examination of the strategic position of VSM Group involved analysing the strategy of the company with emphasis on the environment it operates in, its strategic capabilities, and how expectations affect organisational purposes and strategies. The analysis of the environment concluded with a clear statement of the Key Issues (SWOT Analysis) and Critical Success factors (TOWS Matrix). The strategic position of VSM Group was used as a base in the development of an appropriate competitive strategy for the company. The development of the strategy took into account the organisational cultural issues prevailing in the company. 5. BIBLIOGRAPHY 1. David, F. R. , 1999. Strategic Management. 7th ed. New Jersey: Prentice Hall. 2. http://investing. businessweek. com [accessed 08 May 2008] 3. http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/VSM_Group_AB [accessed 08 May 2008] 4. Johnson, G. Scholes, K. & Whittington, R. , 2005. Exploring Corporate Strategy. 7th ed. Financial Times Prentice Hall. 5. Lynch, R. , 2003. Corporate Strategy. 3rd ed. Financial Times Prentice Hall.

Applied Research Technologies Incorporation Analysis

Applied Research Technologies Incorporation Analysis Introduction of Case study:- The case study is about the Applied Research Technologies Incorporation, which is an emerging corporation in the field of technology. Company has built up its strength from mergers and acquisitions in the year of 1980 and 1990. As a result, in the year of 2006, the ART portfolio consist of 60 business units having major divisions of Industrial automation, Health care, HVAC (Heating ventilation and air conditioning) and Water management Division. Backbone of the business:- Innovative Culture:- The company success is based on the innovative environment and friendly culture for the entrepreneur mind people. The encouragement for innovative ideas can be idealized from the fact that company spends double money on supporting innovative ideas from the other industrial companies. This innovative culture comes from the top, because the CEO (David Hall) encourage employees to spend half day in a week in brainstorming, problem solving and experimenting which is ref erred as â€Å"tinker time†. According to the CEO, he likes to have meetings of managers and innovators so that new ideas emerged. According to him, it is the fact that you will not succeed every time but we should celebrate worthy attempts even they are unsuccessful. Knowledge Sharing:- Knowledge dissemination and sharing is also a promising picture that reflects the cooperative culture of the company. Experts of different department help each other in the successful completion of the project as well as problem solving. Funding to entrepreneurial ideas:- As discussed earlier, company serve significant amount of resources on innovative ideas. Whenever an idea comes which successfully complete the beta batch production and market potential analysis process also called â€Å"proof of concept†, quickly the resources are put behind the idea. CEO of the company wanted to minimize the period from the emergence of idea and the successful launching of commercial product. To co nvert this idea into reality company introduce a program which is referred as† fast track pipeline†, the main purpose behind this activity is to provide additional resources for the high priority projects. Competitive targets and executive compensation:- As the structure of the company belief on decentralized decision making, so to coordinate the activities toward the completion of business as well as corporate goal highly performance targets are set followed by executive compensation. In 2006, the company gives the target referred to as 10(sale growth 10%)/ 15(pretax margin 15%)/ 20(return on investment). Work force Diversity:- CEO of the company wanted to have a global presence. For this, he not only want to expand his business in different geographical areas but also to open its branches in different areas to grasp the talent and utilize for the further development of the company. In response to this idea, R&D group of ART has opened Indian Technical Center (ITC) in 2 000. Filtration Unit:- Our main area of discussion is regarding Filtration unit that struggled hard to reach at a success level. This business has been acquired in 1996 from oil and gas Service Company. Its core products are relating to the Government requirement of recycling of water at drilling sites and well heads.

September 11th, 2001 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

September 11th, 2001 - Essay Example The events of September11th were a series of suicide arracks committed by Muslim fundamentalists. The attackers hijacked four airplanes and directed two of them into the Twins Tours in New York. The third plan was directed into the Pentagon and the forth one was crashed in Pennsylvania. In spite of different conspiracy theories, the undeniable fact is that Al-Qaida and bin Laden officially confirmed their involvement in these attacks (Chomsky 54). Bin Laden states: "we calculated in advance the number of casualties who would be killed" (The Top September 11 Conspiracy Theories 2006). On September 11, TV viewers watched the United Airlines Boeing 767 approach the South Tower of the World Trade Center and ram into it at 9:03 am. Cameras had been set up around the site following the crash of an American Airlines plane into the North Tower some 15 minutes earlier. The main claims promulgated by al-Qaeda against the USA also included: unauthorized use of the Arabian national resources; un lawful intrusion into political affairs of those countries, support of the abusive regimes; military bases in Arabian countries, etc. Before the attacks, the USA stood in opposition to Arabic countries providing aggressive international politics, and these attacks became a response to its international politics and aggressive actions towards global terrorism. In these attacked, 2,974 people were killed. "The completely unexpected action of an airliner being deliberately flown into one of the world's tallest and most symbolic buildings, followed by the massive loss of life, shook journalists' and viewers' cognitive foundations of reality" ("One Nation: America Remembers September 11" 2001). September 11 has decisively transformed the everyday contexts within which many journalists routinely operate. From the perspective of today, of course, it is easier to discern the emergence and embodiment of the responses they crafted and the interests they sought to advance. Far less clear, howe ver, is what their lasting impact will be for journalism in a post-September 11 world. "On September 11 2001, at around eight o'clock in the morning eastern daylight time, four passenger planes took off from various East Coast cities in the United States bound for destinations on the West Coast" (Crockatt.1). The Northern mass media have the tendency to declare manifestations of Muslim belief such as wearing the hijab and performing the communal Muslim prayer as certain signs of "Islamic fundamentalism, " whereas the wearing of Christian religious apparel or attending church in their own countries are not usually considered signs of fanaticism. The generalization and polarization of all Muslims as "fundamentalists" and "moderates, " "traditionalists" and "modernists, " "fanatics" and "secularists" serve to distort communication. They tend to make the Muslims who are interested in constructive dialogue with non-Muslims apologetic about their beliefs or, contrarily, disdainful about any interaction (Chomsky 76). Investigations of trauma typically connect its emergence to large-scale cataclysmic events that shatter a prior sense of what it means, in moral terms, to remain part of a collective All routines-the stability of life-stopped. Sirens were there instead. The sheer genius of the terrorist strike as strike, its

The Three Ideological Elements on Totalitarianism Essay

The Three Ideological Elements on Totalitarianism - Essay Example American Revolution focused more on the political freedom instead of the basic economic needs. She also determines an important link between the constitution and revolution; totalitarianism and modernism and post modernism and ideology and terror. Introduction: Totalitarianism has been the driving force for the political and philosophical debates for centuries, resulting in direct questioning of the ideological thinking of the time which induces a person or society to act in accordance with the existing system. Hannah Arendt can be considered a feminist authority on the political debates which as emerged in the context of Totalitarianism. Her political philosophy is diverse and challenging; has been nurtured for the sole purpose of evoking strong desire for freedom and emancipation which has been the core force leading to revolutions around the world. This element is very significant in the forces which lead to American and French revolution. The issue of totalitarianism is as present today as it was centuries ago, it is the push for domination leading towards evil and terror experienced by the dominant society, in which the strings of control lies in the hands of selected few autocratic and power hungry people like Hitler an d Stalin. Her phenomenal attention to the understanding of the ideology behind totalitarianism is rooted in the concept of 'total domination' (Bernestein, 2002). According to Arendt total domination, "strives to organize the infinite plurality and differentiation of human beings as if all of humanity were just one individual .... The problem is to fabricate something that does not exist, namely, a kind of human species resembling other animal species whose only 'freedom' would consist in 'preserving the species'. Totalitarian domination attempts to achieve this goal through ideological indoctrination of the elite formations and through absolute terror in the camps. . ."(Arendt, 1968,pg.438). The concentration and extermination camps symbolize this "logic of total domination"(Bernstein,2002); they are the laboratories in which the ideological conviction that "everything is possible"(Bernstein,2002) is tested. Her insightful analysis of the political thought draws its force from the general political concepts which are seated in the core drivers of the political vehicle like authority, power, state and sovereignty. She evaluates the ideologies in the light of the totalitarian movement for "total domination" and its terror filled impact on the human race leading to revolutions and global political changes. She aims to integrate the phenomenological prioritization which is based on experiential characteristic of the human race and attempts to uncover the fundamental structures of the political experience through the ages of turmoil, revolution and political changes. Arendt's phenomenological approach aims to investigate the availability of the structures and the characteristics of the political being as distinct from the moral, practical, artistic, productive and other forms of life. Her work focuses on the human action oriented with labour, action and work which are the characteristics use d to uncover the phenomenologi

Toyota - Market Trends Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Toyota - Market Trends - Essay Example As a case in point, Toyota is suffering a bit as a result of its success with the baby-boomer generation in North America. It has come to be seen as Moms and Dads car. As a result, younger car buyers are seeking a more modern alternative; some are turning to Honda, others to Volkswagen. Toyotas challenge is to retain its positioning as dependable but as relevant to the lives of younger buyers. If Toyota fails to achieve this balance, it may suffer the same fate as Buick (Eugel 2008). There is a demand for new clean cars and hybrids manufactured by Toyota. Each year, Toyota sold 1.5 million hybrid vehicles. Reduce customer overall costs and efforts in terms of time involved in searching, acquiring, and using the new product. Simplify the purchasing process, make it convenient and a pleasant or entertaining experience overall. When several competitors use this same approach the linkage between brand and message is weakened. Along these lines, VW, Toyota, and Subaru all target young drivers. demand is heated by unique brand image of Toyota. Market saturation may have set in and investment spending may not be warranted. However, it is possible that a brand with a high BDI can make inroads in a high CDI area if the brands market share is relatively low. Once current user opportunities are exhausted, focus centers on nonusers. This shift typically does not mean that marketing support for current users is abandoned. Often, a segmentation strategy is implemented whereby support is given to current users as well as to nonusers (Kageyama and 2008). Recent years, a great impact on Toyota and its product range have climate-related regulations and â€Å"voluntary† measures demanded improved efficiency of new vehicles. The state are already thinking about complementarities between market-based measures and traditional regulation. Regulations for automakers are especially vital in Europe, where efforts to implement the Kyoto Protocol have revealed that some

International Marketing Environment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 3

International Marketing Environment - Essay Example Surplus balance of payments can be maintained only when the total exports of goods and services exceed the total imports of goods and services. Exports bring foreign currency to a country and this in turn can be used for making payments to importers. Government in each and every nation support exporters by arranging extensive loans and subsidies whereas impose restrictions on importing such as tariffs, quotas and embargoes. Economic integration between nations encompasses certain measures that are designed to abolish discriminations between economic units belonging to different nations. There are mainly five levels of economic integration, Free trade area, Customs union, Common market, Economic union and politic union. In free trade area, countries belonging to a specific trade bloc have an arrangement of free trade or less-restricted trade between them. Custom union is more advanced arrangement than free trade since it not only eliminated restrictions but also adopts uniform commercial policy between its nations. In a common market, there is free flow of labor and capital. Economic union is more advanced to these as it achieves some degree of economic harmonization of national economic policies (Bento and Bento, 2009). Economic integration between countries defines the nature and degree of economic as well as social links between nations. For instance, free trade provides more flexible marketing opportunities for both the countries whereas custom union facilitates uniform economic policies between nations. When firms go global and market internationally, there are major concerns of economic and cultural aspects. Each different nation has its own culture, social setting, languages and therefore marketers need to consider the language, culture and social system that they wish to market their goods and services in. The marketer requires extensive marketing research about customers’ general and specific

Business project Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Business project - Coursework Example Diversification of Toyota’s employment approach brings future concepts and new ideas that maintain emerging on the automotive industry frontier, hence maintaining Global and Canada leadership. One amongst the many business strategies of Toyota is recruiting the brightest and the best, thereby creating chances for partnership (Shang, pp. 72) The key strategies give employee’s and consumer’s perception that Toyota sticks on excellence reputation on all stage of operation. The company has a belief of having business ethics as well as social ethics. Ethics starts at the company’s core and work out their way. The top managers believe in divergence and via that it represents various Toyota faces. At Toyota no stereotypical prejudices or assumptions are ostensible, just the choosing of individuals with talents and are innovate and can lead. Socially, Toyota is portrayed to have a positive image. The company also believes that it should extend a helping hand to the communities to improve their living standards. Toyota works with university, schools and other organizations in supporting programs that aids the world to improve. The ideals are propagated worldwide. Clients were astonished in the year 2009 by the initial series of publicized recalls of vehicles in America. They cited a problem in which incorrect floor and poorly placed mats under the seat of the driver could cause uncontrollable acceleration in various models, Toyota said that it had o recall 3.8 million America vehicle. The recall was due to a fatal crash that took place in California where a Lexus’ accelerator got stuck and resulted to the driver’s death. In addition, reports of accidental acceleration because of stick pedals made the traffic administration to ask Toyota to recall their models and vehicles. To manufacturing students and car buyers’ excellence, the company was not

The little bee Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

The little bee - Essay Example Another way that language is a theme in Cleave’s book is that Sarah and Andrew are journalists who both use words in their occupations. When Andrew meets Little Bee and her sister, he realizes that his words do not really make a huge difference in the world. Little Bee eventually realizes that she has a renewed faith how powerful words can be because it can help a person to heal. Identity and language is crucial and the story is told from the narration of both Little Bee and Sarah. Sarah has everything she wants except happiness and Little Bee has nothing but a good sense of humor. They both have something in common. With their cross-cultural differences, they begin to understand a little more about each other and like each other. Little Bee is struggling to find out who she is. She left the British detention center not knowing how to live life other than the ways she had lived in Nigeria. Now in a new culture, she struggles to figure out who she is but with the help of Sarah, they are able to help each other. Little Bee does not think she has actually left her country but a part of it travelled with

New York Times Article Review in environment Essay

New York Times Article Review in environment - Essay Example New technologies, such as high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment in office buildings, pumps and motors in industrial settings, compact fluorescent bulbs and low-emitting diodes, etc., provide an opportunity to slash energy use, reducing emissions from electricity generation. However, high prices do not allow any considerable re-equipment of the US population. The new initiative offers a wonderful solution of the problem. The auction is to bring hundreds of millions of dollars annually. This money can be used to assist residential and business customers to upgrade their equipment. The author of the article fairly suggests that the initiative should become the foundation of federal-state partnership. Conducted by the federal government, the auction is likely to raise much more money, leading to a significant reduction of energy use and gas emissions. Set under a national cap and run by the federal government, the auction could bring tens of billions annually. The states could get funds for implementation of their decisions and regulation on utilities, the location of power plants, building codes and land use. Many states take steps in the direction of energy efficiency. So Massachusetts has cut the annual growth in electricity demand by nearly one-third. Rebates, low-interest loans and incentives allowed residential and business customers reequip their settings reducing the use of energy and saving their money. California promotes solar power installations and energy efficient building designs. Connecticut has issued a law making utilities to re-equip and inve st into energy efficiency projects. The International Energy Conservation Code and its equivalents for residential and commercial buildings have become the guidelines for action in many states. According to the Clean Air Act states should get federal funds to carry out their local strategies on pollution prevention. The federal-state

Statement of Purpose Essay Example for Free

Statement of Purpose Essay I am determined to become a top engineer and researcher in radiology, advancing the development and application of this important technology. This is an era when information technologies, such as electronics and computer science, are mushrooming throughout the world. But how about radiological science? Is it a diminishing subject without a future? Of course not! It is a research area that has a unique and indispensable position in many fields such as industry and medical science. In my point of view, radiological science can be classified as a branch of information technology. Why? Combined with computer science and electronics, radiology provides us with information that was originally thought to be invisible such as the interior structure of metal, the image of the inside of the human body and even the existence of a celestial body far away from us. With the capacity of acquiring many kinds of important information, radiology is undoubtedly a promising research field. My initial interest in radiological science was sparked by a visit to the laboratory of the Large Container Inspection System (LCIS) when I was a freshman of Tsinghua University. LCIS, specially designed for Customs, was one of the key national projects taken charge by the Department of Engineering Physics. As a fruit of radiological science, it can present the image of the interior of a large container without even opening it. The seemingly magical power was really attractive to me, a young man with a keen curiosity and the ambition to fulfill accomplishments in engineering and applied technology. In the spring of 1999, I entered the (name) Laboratory and began to assist the professor in research. The assistants job offered me a great opportunity to work with and learn from the professors and graduates in the lab, who had not only taught me a lot of knowledge in radiology, but also impressed me with their enthusiasm and devotion to this field. To be competent in the job, often went to the library to read books and science journals on radiology, such as the Nuclear Instruments and Methods and IEEE Nuclear Science ; Medical Imaging. This reading, though a little bit difficult, brought to me valuable information of the state-of-the-art technology. With my broadening mind and growing interest, I am determined to become a top engineer and researcher in radiology, advancing the development and application of this important technology. While reading the journals, I discovered that the US is the best place to pursue my further study and research because of its favorable atmosphere of research in radiology. And the University of (name), one leader in nuclear engineering, has the graduate program that I most want to be associated with. From web sites and publications introducing the (university name), I learned that you are conducting a wide range of research in radiology, much of which I am interested in, such as radiation instrument design and radiation imaging. With the world-class faculty, advanced facility, nurturing and challenging environment, your graduate school is the best place where I can extend myself with the most advanced technologies. I know that the admission to your school is very competitive and challenging. But I am confident that I am qualified and well prepared for it. The undergraduate study in Tsinghua has built for me a solid academic foundation in mathematics and physics as well as in my major. Intelligent and diligent, I received outstanding records in the courses Ive taken and my overall GPA is in the top 5% of our department, for which I have been granted scholarships for 4 consecutive years. My research ability is also outstanding. In my college years, I took advantage of every opportunity to enhance my research ability and enrich my research experience in my major. I carefully and creatively planned and conducted the experiments in all the lab courses, such as Lab of Physics and Lab of Modern Physics. In the course of Modern Physical Electronics, I, with one of my classmates, designed an experiment to test the transmission feature of electrical cable used in the oil well nuclear logging system, and proposed some advice to make improvements. I also took part in the SRT (student research training) program, doing lab work on the application of virtual instrument in radiation detection and nuclear instrumentation. In the lab, I am appreciated by my advisor, Professor (name) for I am not only able to conduct research independently, but also understand how to cooperate with others. As a college student, I am well developed in many aspects. As the monitor of the class, I showed responsibility and leadership in my work. For my excellence in English ability (please refer to the Resume), I was selected as the editor of the University English TV Station and the broadcaster of the University English Radio Station. I love sports and take part in many fields of it: I am the captain of the basketball team of the class, the fourth place winner in the University Badminton Tournament and a good I-go player. In the annual Comprehensive Quality Assessment taken by the university to scale the students all around ability, I am always the top student of my class. I can not forget the days when I was in primary school, short and weak, always failing in the sports matches. With my enthusiasm in sports and the determination to become strong, I started to exercise. Each time when I was exhausted from running, out of breath and my legs aching, it was my perseverance that had kept me on the track. With my efforts paying off, my conviction became firmer: determination and perseverance is crucial in peoples success. With my perseverance and strong interest, as well as the academic background and the research ability, I am confident that I am a suitable candidate for your graduate program. My intended field of study is radiation measurement and imaging, medical physics and other related areas in radiology science. If I could be admitted and financially aided, I would like to pursue my PhD degree there. And after that, I will come back to China, to enter industry or research institutes to promote the research and application of radiological science

Influence of Tv Violence to the Behavior Essay Example for Free

Influence of Tv Violence to the Behavior Essay Thus, the influence of TV violence to the children particularly in the Cebu can cause negative changes in their behavior. An experiment shows that children when exposed to televised violence, exhibited the aggressive behavior they have observed – hitting, kicking and using hostile language. Prior to that time, the prevailing theory was that televised violence drained aggressive impulses. This is also the reason why television has become a growing source of parental anxiety where parents worry about the amount and kinds of program their children watch. This study aims to talk about TV violence and its effects on the behavior of the children and the ways to handle it. In order to achieve this goal, this paper is organized into three sections. The first section helps us know about the children’s understanding of television. The second section discusses the influence and effects of TV violence to the behavior of Filipino children which is the main concern of this study. And the third section offers suggestions in handling and regulating TV violence. Chapter II Presentation of Data Children’s Understanding of TV According to research, before age seven, children have difficulty integrating separate scenes into a continuous story line. Instead, they treat each scene as an isolated incident and are unable to relate a TV characters behavior to its prior motives and eventual consequences. Thus, young children cannot see the connection between violence and its consequences if the perpetrator of violence gets to be punished only at the end of the program. Studies show that young children recall little information that is central to the plot of a story. Their difficulty ranges from their inability to differentiate what is essential to the plot and what is nonessential. Character actions, especially those showing physical actions and confrontations, are remembered better than scenes offering explanations for their actions. Children find it hard to recall scenes recounting inner feelings that explain previous events. Young children also have a hard time distinguishing make-believe from reality. A five-year-old child wondered why an actor who died in one TV program came back to life in another show; and if Superman can fly, why cant he (the child) even if he wears a Superman cape. Children observe that cartoon characters manage to recover from severe violent acts almost immediately. This kind of exposure could lead them to interpret that in real life, people who are victims of violent acts do not really get hurt at all. A conversation between an author and a six-year-old clearly illustrates the kind of message a child gets from a cartoon program: Why is GI Joe your favorite show? Because it has a lot of fighting. Who would you like to be like when you grow up? I want to be like Rambo because he has a big gun. What happens to the bad guys you shoot? They die. And what happens to you? Nothing. Young children who watch a lot of television tend to believe that it is all right to hit someone if one is angry and have a good reason. (Source: http://www. childprotection. org. ph) Influence and Effects of TV Violence Upon meeting Snow White at Disneyland, a preschooler said to her, Youre not Snow White, you know. Why do you say that? asked Snow White. Well, th e child replied, if you were real, youd be a cartoon. And this is how powerful the media is in shaping childrens images of reality. (http://www. stanford. edu/dept/bingschool/research_dsl_1999bandura. html) The Influence of TV Violence to Children’s Behavior; 4 Child psychologists point out that it is a misconception to consider cartoons as harmless just because they are funny. The theme of cartoons such as Popeye is that any problem can be solved by brute force which one acquires by eating spinach. In being funny and fast paced, cartoons may tend to reduce a childs perception of danger, pain, and suffering. TV violence can produce at least four effects. First, it teaches aggressive styles of conduct. Second, it weakens restraints against aggression by glamorizing violence. When good triumphs over evil violently, viewers are even more strongly influenced. Third, it habituates and desensitizes reactions to cruelty. And finally, it shapes our images of reality; for example, only 10% of major crimes in society are violent, but on TV, 77% of major crimes are violent, which has the effect of making people more fearful of becoming crime victims. Psychologist have speculated that watching televised violence might be emotionally arousing, making it more likely that viewers will react violently to frustrations in the environment. Televised violence might also provide models that viewers imitate, particularly if the violence is carried out by attractive, powerful models (Bernstein, et al, 284). The Social Learning Theory considers that people learn from one another, including such concepts as observational learning, imitation, and modeling. The ten-year old boy, Sergio Pelico who died after watching Saddam’s execution in TV must have imitated it. (Lucas, et al, 103) This theory together with other theories was used to explain a great many social problems such as crime, suicide, divorce and alcoholism. Furthermore, there are some people who could easily be influenced by propaganda and they would through themselves into new mass organizations in an effort to find some sense of belongingness. Stark, 21) The mass media especially the television, also contributes heavily to adolescent nonconformity in three ways. First, they stereotype all adolescents whose grooming and clothing do not reflect approved adult standards as nonconformists and attribute the behavior characteristic of nonconformity to them. If society labels its adolescents as â€Å"teen-agers† and expe cts them to be rebellious, unpredictable, sloppy, and wild in their behavior, and if the picture is repeatedly reinforced by the mass media such cultural expectations may very well force adolescents into the role of rebel. The mass media contribute to adolescent nonconformity by making real life appear unsatisfying and dull. (Hurlock, 124) A survey was conducted concerning the influence and effects of TV violence to the behavior of the children in Cebu City. The survey aims to know how children are linked to television and how it affects them and their parents. The results of the survey are shown on the next pages. . Survey results The percentage of the parents’ answers based on the following questions: Question # 1: Does your child love to watch suspense movies that involve killing? Question # 2: Does your child watch television for more than 8 hours? The Influence of TV Violence to Children’s Behavior; 7 Question # 3: Are you worried about the kinds of television program that they watch? Question #4: Have you noticed any negative changes in your child’s behavior after watching television? The Influence of TV Violence to Children’s Behavior; 8 Question #5: Does your child spend more time watching television than other necessary things like studying? Question # 6: Do they pay more attention to the television than to you? The Influence of TV Violence to Children’s Behavior; 9 The survey shows that most children pay more attention to the television than to their parents. A mother even commented, â€Å"Maayo pa sauna nga wala pay TV kay ang mga bata buotan† (It was better before the television came because children are still kind and obedient). Most children that are 8-12 years old spend more time in front the TV than doing other necessary things like studying. And what’s the bad thing is that if children are used to watching television, they will be exposed to violence that might influence their behavior. Although not all children are watching television for more than 8 hours, the effects of television are still prone to children. Some parents even admitted that they have observed some negative changes in their child’s behavior after watching a television show that has some bad scenes in it since children tend to imitate the things they have seen from the show without knowing that it might be wrong. Several scholars have pointed out that as media content has increased in violence in the past few decades, violent crimes among youth have declined rapidly. Although most scholars caution that this decline cannot be attributed to a causal effect, they conclude that this observation argues against causal harmful effects for media violence. Regulating TV Violence Parents worry about the kinds of television programs that their children watch. The urgency and seriousness of this issue on media violence has reached global proportions. A worldwide concern has prompted parents, educators, advocacy groups, and mental health professionals to launch protest activities and public discussions on how children can be protected against harmful media influences. Influence of TV Violence to Children’s Behavior; 10 A number of bills were filed to mitigate the negative effects of televised violence. House Bill 19183 proposes a ratings system for TV programs. House Bill 10183 provides that cartoons featuring violence and unethical conduct should be aired only during times when young children are not usually watching. The Kapisanan ng Mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas has its code and internal guidelines. Relevant sections pertaining to responsibility towards children are: Childrens programs shall not present violence, whether physical or psychological, as a means to resolve conflicts and problems. Childrens programs shall not emphasize perverted sex and undue violence. Penalties have been stipulated for violations of these rules. These include fines ranging from P5, 000 to P15, 000, suspension of KBP privileges, expulsion from KBP membership, to recommendation to the National Telecommunications Commission for suspension of station lease for the fourth offense. Consequently, The Department of Education are monitoring television channels through a project aimed at reducing violent content that might be watched by children. The campaign involves TV shows between 6 a. m. and 10 a. m. , which the DepEd claims to be the period where more children watch TV. Their goal is to have stations comply by reducing violent or vulgar shows by as much as 20 percent. The campaign also encourages parents and concerned citizens to send reports or file complaints to NCCT regarding TV shows that may be harmful for children. Influence of TV Violence to Children’s Behavior; 11 Television is not merely bad since it is used as a means of communication and as a means of educating but what makes it wrong is the way people abuse its use and the way some of them used television to expose violent actions without even thinking how it could affect the viewers. The effects of TV violence are no doubt harmful especially to children. These may cause negative changes in their behavior one of which is being aggressive. That is why children should be guided by their parents or guardians so that will not be influenced by the words they hear and the things they see. When viewing together, they can discuss how the conflict could have been solved without the violence. They should explain to the child how violence in entertainment is faked and not real. Such interventions, whether at the personal or family level can moderate the impact of violent scenes on children. Adult explanation improves childrens understanding of plots, characters, and events. Co-viewing with children can provide occasions for parents to discuss values, beliefs, and moral issues. Parents should also set clear guidelines on the time and length of television viewing. Perhaps the most effective approach in dealing with this problem of television violence should be systemic and multilevelchanges must take place at the home, school, and industry levels. Though researches have all pointed to the association between televised violence and aggression in children, what a child learns from television may be a product of the broader relationship among medium, child, and parent Thus, active, responsible parental involvement in the childs television viewing does make a great difference. Influence of TV Violence to Children’s Behavior; 12 Chapter III Conclusion Television has become a potent agency of socialization because like the family, school, and peers, it directly provides the child with experiences which shape their attitudes and influence their behaviors. Children that are exposed to TV violence can experience negative changes in their behavior. First, it can teach aggressive styles of conduct. Second, it weakens restraints against aggression by glamorizing violence. Third, it habituates and desensitizes reactions to cruelty. And finally, it shapes our images of reality. In order to handle this, a number of bills were filed to mitigate the negative effects of televised violence. Parents can also encourage their children to find pleasure in other mass media, such as books and newspapers. Perhaps the most appropriate solution in dealing with this must take place at home, school and industry. Thus, active, responsible parental guidance is very necessary. The power to initiate change for the prevention of the harmful effects of TV violence should come from the market not a market that passively laps up unhealthy and disturbing programs that assault young, sensitive minds, but a market that is critical, enlightened, and imbued with a strong resolve to protect childrens well-being and right to wholesome entertainment. Influence of TV Violence to Children’s Behavior; 13 Chapter 1V Bibliography Books Lucas, Maria Rita and Corpuz, Brenda. Facilitating Learning: A Metacognitive Process. Quezon City: Lorimar Publishing, Inc. , 2007. Stark, Rodney.

The Internet And Effects On Higher Education

The Internet And Effects On Higher Education The effects of internet and information technology on higher education have produced significant of reaching change in the way how university deliver education. It has become a very indispensable part of our education. We can also get any kind of information related to subject as well as learning new words and meanings. Today our education is incomplete without internet and information technology. Technology plays a very vital role in all levels of education today. Technology has made education more colourful and entertaining. In today`s world everyone needs to be able to understand and use a computer. Almost every job requires the use of some form of technology. Therefore a teacher should be using and teaching technology in every class and every subject. Many years education has been provided in classroom or on campers worldwide but there has been a change to the conventional method of classroom learning with the advancements in technology. Technology is a huge step for the education of today`s student. We can take admission in all professional courses by the internet. Internet is an immense source of information of every kind and it can be useful for us in all different studies. It has become a very useful tool in assisting many students in their education. It is a great impact on the teaching method of today and a teacher can also get a lot of information about their subjec t as well as various techniques in the teaching via the internet. It is faster and helps us in our work without any error. Over the past few years, computers have become a vastly popular house hold item. It used only for emailing, news and check for weather by via internet. In todays age internet is used in every aspect of life. Distant education is possible by the technology. Lectures and trainings can be now given through by video lectures and even technology has resulted in information of sophisticated labs through which practical education is now made possible. For example video conferencing technology is helping to make quality education accessible to rural communities and provide alternative learning environment to those who have not found success in traditional schooling. It is not important to get any study visa because by internet we can complete our study and get a foreign degree. The internet provides the opportunity for people who live anywhere in the world to get access to quality educational services from the comfort of their home. Distance learning education takes place when the teacher and students are separated from one another due to their physical location and technology is used to communicate between teachers and students. They can submit any assignment and also communicate with other cou ntries students. There are other advantages too for students to complete home studies for example fulltime working parents who need to work for a living and still can further their education from home via the internet. Also some students take a break from studying and later on in life can also complete their higher education via internet education. The internet allows you to have got to educational opportunity on your schedule and time. Online courses usually do not require particular text books because it can provide many sort of visual materials via internet. In fact text books are very expensive for students and by taking online courses it might be more cost efficient than taking conventional courses. Furthermore online education gives great opportunity those who cannot attend ordinary classes because of physical problems. Moreover online study is better when class is large. In large class interaction between the students and teacher is really rare, where teacher cannot give proper one to one attention on the students. Today many school and universities have internet on their computers to support their activities and some of them have their own websites to make the communication between students with their schools to become easier. School, collages and university can how share information which can lead to higher standards i n education and resources. Now online education is fairly new and research on it is up to date. The internet is a wonderful new tool for current generation of students. We can gain wealth of information in one place rather than the need to visit various libraries. It has become a very useful tool in assisting many students in their education. We can find lots of information related our study subjects from different websites like google, yahoo. We can use new vocalbary words in our studies. For example there is a unique chance to establish efficient and up to date system of education and training relying on the new achievement of information technology. Moreover the emerging of the global market of education is giving to materials and delivery systems. The Internet is an accessible and convenient source of information, which can be used for all types of education. Almost everywhere where a computer and a communication line we can have an Internet connection and be in touch with different source of information. In addition, the distance from the college or university cannot be an obstacle. Moreover, by Internet we would be able to learn at any time we want. In a lecture if we miss a part we can go back and review the missing part of any lecture. The Internet provides up-to-date information on a variety of classroom-related topics unavailable from other sources. The content of textbook, library, and teacher knowledge is enhanced by this new medium. We can do every research related to our study to help of the internet. We can gather all required like data. For example any student of history they do not need to go different places for his or her research while help of internet they can easily complete their research just sit one place. Use of different virtual graphics or animations in Internet can provide us an easier way to understand some complicated processes, example for what is happening in the centre of the earth, earthquake or how a protein can be synthesized inside of earth. The Down side of technology is that it can be very distracting even though students say they can multi task, which very few people can actually do their brain is not working on its full potential on the work or task at hand. Sometimes information that is provided on the internet can be false or bias and often students believe the information. The effects of internet on three major fields in life are, it has an effect on health especially psychological. It can also affect our work and education because we cannot concentrate on equally either our work or study. It can separate an individual from his real life. There are lots of features in Internet that can help us an effective and better way of learning. There is a gap for certain people and the reason for this is not everyone has easy access to the internet compared to others who live in the other parts of the world. There is a situation in certain developing countries as not all people are able to use internet or afford to use the internet due to the lack of their income level and lack of technological infrastructure. The other downside to internet study is that we cannot discuss any points face to face as interactions with other peers and the teacher are only based in classes. Sometimes students desire the immediate feedback from the teacher which they will not be able to get online whereas in class a simple homework and test problems can be resolved one by one easily with the teacher however online that option is not available. If students wish to complete online education then they dont get the opportunity enjoy the student life. A disadvantage for educators may consider this to be an information overload on the internet, With a ll of the information available to students, they may find it difficult to choose which information is most important to a topic and also when to stop looking. In addition, the validity of Internet sources varies considerably from website to website, which means students can very easily acquire inaccurate or out-dated information online. So the conclusion all this is that the internet is very accessible and convenient than our traditional style of education, as there are allot more possibilities to learn anywhere at any time and any place. Moreover, there are lots of features in Internet that can help us to develop a better understanding of different materials in which we can study. In addition, by minimising the physical distance the Internet can help other people to have opportunity for a better education and higher quality of life, no matter where. The use of internet education can ensure that anyone can at any age complete their studies or continue with the higher education without there being a barrier in life to stop them. Which would then not only better a students life moving forward but also securing their future and their familys future to?

Ambiguity in Coovers Quenby and Ola, Swede and Carl :: Quenby and Ola, Swede and Carl Essays

Ambiguity in Coover's Quenby and Ola, Swede and Carl    Ambiguity occurs often in writing, and readers often choose to fill in the blanks with facts, which are not from the text. By filling in spaces in the story, the reader creates a plot, which fits into their understanding. In Coover's "Quenby and Ola, Swede and Carl," the plot is ambiguous. Many of these ambiguities are subtle and are easily overlooked, leading the reader to make assumptions about the text. Simple words, phrases, or the language leads the reader to a plot, which almost fits the text. As a reader, I was not satisfied that there was no definitive plot in which I could understand the story. I read the story several times and came up with three different realities; none of them agreed completely with the text. My first conclusion of the story was that the story took place over the course of a week, and that all pieces of the story occurred. My second understanding was that the two sex scenes were both fantasies and that the other pieces took place over the cou rse of the week. Finally, the last conclusion I drew was that everything had happened, but during different years. Each of these plots, which I created out of the story's ambiguity, is invalid if you include all of the text and don't disregard some textual evidence and language. Thus the ambiguity causes the reader to fill in blanks and disregard textual discrepancies. By filling in the blanks and creating an understanding for themselves, the reader is destroying the text.    My understanding of the story after the initial reading was that all of the parts took place while Ola was fourteen. I fit the pieces in order of dinner (which leads to the living room), the story, the sex with Quenby, the sex with Ola, and Swede and Carl on a stagnant boat. In this plot, the story opens with all four people eating a bass dinner and then moving into the living room to sit in front of the empty fireplace. Ola then proceeds to tell the story while Carl describes "... her flowering breasts under the orange shirt, her young hips packed snugly in last year's bright white shorts, her soft girlish thighs, slender calves: these were not Swede's" (152).

How to Successfully Skip a Day of School :: essays research papers

Every kid in high school is always trying to think of new ways to skip class. This is where I come into play. I missed forty-two days of high school my senior year and didn't get caught once. If executed correctly, almost anyone can pull this off. I've been told many times that Ferris Bueller didn't have anything on me. Maybe one day I'll get my own movie. I was not a fan of class in high school, and it was well known. I was what most would call the class clown and tended to stay in trouble. If I wasn?t skipping school I was usually suspended. So when I was there, I had to be prepared for anything and everything thrown my way. Missing so many days I had to be an expert at forging doctor?s notes. But for one day you will only need one forged note from your parents. All materials needed to pull this off can be found around the house. The most important thing needed to pull this off is a functioning brain. Some other materials you may need are soup, Kleenex, and ibuprofen. All these materials will be vital to your success. To successfully skip a day of school requires two very important things, practice and execution. To begin, this cannot be a spur of the moment thing, it must be thought out and practiced. Don?t come out right away and say you do not feel well. Act so sick your parents have to ask if you are feeling well. The best thing to tell them is that you have a terrible headache and can?t see straight. This cannot be proven wrong. The next morning, stay in bed until they come tell you that you are going to be late. This is when you tell them you are so sick you can?t make it to class. When they finally depart for work stay put for at least an hour. People have been known to get caught because they are too anxious. Patience is a virtue. When you go to shower, take a minute to look around and memorize where everything is, then when you are finished put everything back the way it was before you got in. Now leaving the house is the tough part. Be very cautious of noisy neighbors.

Teens and Premarital Sex :: Sexual Education Pregnancy Marriage

The Impure Waterwheel Have you ever seen a watermill? Turning continuously, they are bound in an eternal cycle. Continually spinning,, the lack of purity in the United States can be compared to that watermill, a never-ending cycle that threatens to spin out of control. We must intercede. Sex out of wedlock creates dysfunctional families, and teens searching for â€Å"more† in life, who often turn to the reason they're feeling so glum, sex. Having sex out of wedlock is a big problem in the United States that needs to stop. Strained by relationships on the verge of collapse and peer pressure, many teens turn to sex as an escape. Hardly sixteen, Jamie Lynn Spears is an excellent example of how family problems can pressure someone to do things they know they shouldn’t. Jamie Lynn’s sister, Brittany Spears, is undergoing extensive criticism from the media about her recent mental breakdown, this pressure from the paparazzi has taken its toll on Jamie Lynn’s life and she made a bad choice, as so many young people today do. With the baby, that so often follows sex out of wedlock many times a â€Å"family† is quickly formed out of girlfriends and boyfriends who think they’re â€Å"in love†. In many cases, one of the parents will leave, forming yet another dysfunctional family. Dysfunctional families are often unloving and make childhood difficult. Wrestling with their own problems many single parents will simply hang their children out to dry. Basically neglected, children deem themselves extremely reviled and not good enough. Off this assumption of worthlessness, many young people will label or allow themselves to be labeled as â€Å"unloved†. Hated by their parents, or at least feeling they’re hated, teens will go to extensive lengths to find self-worth. While they realize they will never be able to replace their parent’s love, adolescents will always try to find meaning. Teens will search for something â€Å"more† in life, which they never got in their childhood always. If they feel they can’t earn their parent's love young people will turn to other things to satisfy their need to be accepted. Grossly, many teens turn to drugs or alcohol to try to forget their life. Tortured by life, some people turn to popularity to appease their soul, but none of these alternatives can. Craving love, many teens turn to sex as an alternative to facing reality, or simply as a place to find the love they’ve never felt.

Conflict and resolving issues sources of conflict and conflict resolution Essay

Hello everyone. My name is Isaac and welcome to my presentation. First of all I would like to give thanks to our honorable course instructor for organizing such a pretty session. Well, today the topic of my presentation is about conflict and resolving issues. So here I will discuss about conflict and resolving issues, sources of conflict and conflict resolution. Many people lead busy and challenging lives, so they encounter conflict on a daily basis and sometimes hourly basis at home or at work. As for the people who become engaged in conflict, they rarely have any or little understanding about the roots of conflicts or how to manage it when it happens. The entire other level that many people fail to understand is how regularly they encounter conflict and how difficult it can be to find a solution. As human we are regularly being placed in situations where conflict can occur and how we respond to it is grounded on different personalities. Conflict is an inevitable factor in our daily personal and professional lives. We are surrounded by conflict even if we may not recognize it. Usually we don’t like to experience conflict, although we enjoy watching others deal with it. For example, television shows highlight the fact that arguments, disputes, and disagreements are normal and a relevant part of life. Conflicts can result for various reasons, including miscommunication, differing values, relationship breakdowns and lack of information. In the workplace conflicts, divergent needs are usually at the heart of bitter disputes. A conflict can occur at any time when two or more people have a difference of opinion. Whether or not the conflict expands rely on the resolving skills of each person involved in the conflict and analyze the elements of conflict and resolving issues involved in the situation. While knowledge in resolving issues skills and negotiation tactics can result to successful conflict resolution, the outcome lies strictly in the hands and mental abilities of the conflict initiator. When you acknowledge the legitimacy of conflicting needs and become willing to analyze them in a surrounding of compassionate understanding, it open pathways to team building, creative problem solving and improved relationship. When you resolve conflict and disputes quickly and painlessly, mutual trust flourish. Basically, the capability to successfully manage and resolve conflicting issues rely on the four conflict resolution skills; swiftly relieve stress, recognizing and managing your emotions, improving your non verbal communication skills, and using humor and play to deal with problems. In conclusion,conflict is a normal and even healthy part of life. Furthermore, two people cannot be expected to agree on everything at all times. Resolving issues is an approach that we require all throughout our lives. Conflict is obviously unavoidable no matter what precautions are taken, but resolving issue is always possible if done correctly. Feelings of frustration may happen, but resolving conflict can make such a difference in our interpersonal relationships rather than just avoiding it. It may appear hard at times to resolve the conflict and reach a median, but in the end, regardless of the difficulty, it will be well worth it and will improve our performance. References Akgun, Serap, and Arzu Araz. â€Å"The Effects of Conflict Resolution Education on Conflict Resolution Skills, Social Competence, and Aggression in Turkish Elementary School Students.† Journal of Peace Education (2014): 30-45. Print. Nan, Susan Allen. â€Å"Consciousness in Culture-based Conflict and Conflict Resolution.† Conflict Resolution Quarterly (2012): 239-62. Print. Source document

Critical Thinking and Reasons Essay

Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Secon d, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons. Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Secon d, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons. Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Secon d, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons. Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Secon d, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.Notice what the details in this paragraph have done. They have provided you, the reader, with a basis for understanding what the writer made the decision she did. Through specific evidence, the writer has explained and communicated her point successfully. The evidence that supports the point in a paragraph often consists of a series of reasons introduced by signal words (First of all, Second, and the like) and followed by examples and details that support the reasons. That is true of the sample paragraph above: three reasons are provided, followed by examples and details that back up those reasons.