New York Life – Marketing Management Case Analysis

BAB25 – Case analysis 2: New York Life and Immediate Annuities Unlike the old days where a retiree could rest assured that they could live out the rest of their life on their pension and social security checks, the retirees of today receive their pensions paid out in a lump sum that takes the place of the pension check, but encompasses the total amount a retiree has to live on until they pass away. This creates uncertainty in the amount a retiree can spend per month, and if the total amount is sufficient to last them until they pass away. Immediate annuities help to create certainty in the financial situation of retirees. While retirees can be certain that they will receive a social security check each month, the amount of income they are able to receive from their pensions can vary depending on their contribution plan. Immediate annuities are a one-time purchase that guarantees a monthly payment for the remainder of the purchaser’s life. They solve the problem well as they take away the uncertainty of where a retiree can receive their income from, they are the â€Å"ideal vehicle to guarantee retirees a lifetime income† (Rotemberg & Gourville, 2010, p. ). Generally speaking, neither the buyers (the retirees) nor the sellers (agents/advisors) of immediate annuities are very enthusiastic about them. Consumers have several interrelated reasons for not buying immediate annuities. Firstly people are often not familiar with immediate annuities, which evidently causes fewer buyers. Then, buying immediate annui ties means spending a large sum of money as usually immediate annuities cost at least $100. 000 or more. This large sum of money has to be paid at once, while the purchase is irrevocable which causes doubts, most importantly because the retiree does not know if they will live long enough to make the purchase profitable. If not, more money will be put in the purchase than they will get out of it, meaning it is quite a gamble to buy immediate annuities (Rotemberg & Gourville, 2010). The agents and advisors that are supposed to sell immediate annuities, on the other hand, also have their doubts. Investment advisors actively manage their clients’ money. Immediate annuities do not allow for this as it is a one-time investment. This also means that the advisor/agent gets a one-time commission, which is less profitable compared to collecting multiple fees from one client over time for revocable investments (Rotemberg & Gourville, 2010). Additionally, advisors/agents often also do not have enough knowledge of the product, making it very hard to sell. Agents/advisors that do have knowledge of the product often state that immediate annuities are a bad retirement product. Only 9% of financial advisors (strongly) prefer the product, against 64% having a (very) weak preference for it (Morgan Stanley Research, 2007, as used in Rotemberg & Gourville, 2010). New York Life (NYL) has set its mind on growing the Guaranteed Lifetime Income (GLI) business in the future, but faces several possible paths in order to reach this goal. To be as cost-efficient as possible, we think that the company should select its pool of end-customers wisely. The focus on retirees should be maintained and even enforced, as many still do not know the products proposed by NYL. Furthermore, the focus should be broadened to a larger target group, to include the â€Å"typical† customers of the companies, families with children. As noted by Rotemberg and Gourville (2010), NYL tends to build long term relations with its clients, as agents follow them over time and sell multiple contracts to them. We can think that an ageing family would present a â€Å"risk management mindset†, as their children's future is not secured yet. We can hence position the product by presenting it as a safe solution adapted to one's own needs. Differentiating the product from those of NYL's competitors is important; potential clients of GLI annuities should understand the superior benefits of the product. Building on the company's reputation, GLI annuities should be promoted as a long term investment from a responsible company, concerned with its customers and providing long term relations between agents and customers. In order to reach a greater public and change customers' mindsets, we need to strengthen the core components of the company. For this, we believe that the focus should be put on NYL's agents rather than collaboration with investors that would force NYL to compromise on its values and products. While the pool of agents is already significant, only 4000 of them sold GLI annuities, as only 40% of the 11,500 agents had received the training specific to the product (Rotemberg & Gourville, 2010, p. 12). Therefore we believe that the GLI business would grow if all agents are trained to improve their knowledge of the products and hence their services to customers. We believe that the pool of agents should be increased gradually as number of customers grows in order to sustain the aforementioned values of NYL while the price of GLI annuities should not be changed, considering the customized services NYL provides. Instead, they need to focus on convincing customers that they're worth their price as their product is unique. i. e. NYL needs to emphasize the novel aspects of its product to differentiate from competitors', while promotion should be built on NYL's values.

Political Science link with English Essay

Abstract The main purpose of this paper is to provide the reader a clear understanding on the political views on estrangement. This will further be discussed by comparing and also contrasting the different views of Aristotle and Hobbe. And how might each of these philosophers have analyzed the problems on Pitcairn Island. Political Science link with English It is very common to all of us that when we decide on something, we sometimes immediately knew what we would prefer or choice and then we decide from it. This is common in the sense that every one of us has our own personal judgment, even sometimes we have the same decision with others, but the reason why we have decided it is different from that person. But, there are still other people that just tend to follow decisions and would not anymore would want to expand his mind in thinking why he needs to decide ion such things, but in fact we all been given that luxury of making up our mind on the decisions we want to have. This is also part of the key areas that will be focus on in this paper the political vision of estrangement. This will be further be discussed and explained in this paper through the different views of two famous philosophers: Aristotle and Hobbe. These two well respected philosophers will provide their own views which will eventually the basis of what was used at in the present. Lastly, these two philosophers will also be presented in this paper on how they have analyzed the problem in the Pitcairn Island. Estrangement just like a choice or decision refers to disunity due to following of different ideology. In true human reflection, this usually happens in politics, where there is always disunity that is happening. One for the administration and the other is for the opposition, or it can also be divided into majority group and the minority group. Estrangement is very evident and was said to be beneficial in an organization because this is the only way that it strikes the balance. Balance that would help like for example the government through disagreements made by the different sector of government. Or public upheaval that was initiated due to certain idea and belief that no balance of attention is given to staffs or employees in a company instead what happened was favoritism and lack of respect to others. Estrangement actually may not be present to humans, only if we have leaders who will stand for peace and equal rights across all groups, but this remains to be an ideal vision only and still people tends to work his own liberated way of thinking and pursue on what he or she desires. Take for instance people that are successful, even though they succeeded in life they lack relationship and that starts for finding somebody to compensate the sadness. Then this results to separation from the main ideology of the family. For the English philosopher, Hobbe, estrangement has a lot to do with human life, in the sense that every man is against other man, there are no central government that overrules this ideology and man should not find luxury instead grief in keeping company. Life is such a state which was considered a famous political theory that man should know his state and act on it. For Hobbe, there are two main levels of estrangement: the first level and that refers to the surface is psychological, which means that humans are estranged because they have egos to feed in and this is because they always think that they have to preserved their lives more and always the most important one. The second one is prestige and wealth and this may not be possible to achieve without practicing power. This is the most common standard of human life that every one of us will do anything just to succeed in what we do. But this also creates a person to be more selfish and self-centered. (Adler, Ronald and Russell, Proctor II, 2006, pp. 23-27). For Aristotle, it was an opposing view of Hobbe, and he said that human beings are essentially united. As the founder of political science, he made this belief more popular these days than that of Hobee. That there are more progress and developments that can happen if people work together as one. He even considered during the emergence of the city-state in the Greece, he finds views that for humans not considering in the involvement of exchanging ideas and beliefs are only those who can classifies themselves either Gods or beast. He even strongly stated that regardless of your status in the society, like slave, laborers or artisans, you can still allow to unite with different groups since you also bear the same ideology and principle. This principle or belief was then been carried on for years and it was very beneficial in war as people can easily know the greater importance of unity instead of working individually. (Adler, Ronald and Russell, Proctor II, 2006, pp. 28-29). But the main focal point is that does human beings are estranged in essence. Based on the two philosophers, it is hard to mention what is more effective; instead it is more on the faith of the individual that counts the most. That is contrasting the two different ideology has its own personal purpose, humans should strike the balance. In other words both have its own main advantage provided it will be used appropriately. In the Pitcairn Island novel, it was obviously a cast of different personality at the beginning, most specially for Christian, who always finds it interesting working alone but still effectively contributing to the team. Unlike McCoy, Smith, John and Martin, preferred more to work as a team and having to work in a more focus but more collaborative way is essential. In this novel, following Aristotle’s ideology would be easier, it was shown here that even after a little uprising happens that divides the followers, still there are loyal followers that remains and still succeeded in reaching its goal in arriving to Pitcairn Island. Unlike for Hobbe’s ideology it can still be helpful but instead of addressing the team as one, what he will do is to work each and every member and that will take much of his time and the time for his team to coordinate at one another, even though a higher efficiency for each individual will be achieved but the team work will suffer and in that time that is more important as there was already an uprising that happens. This is truly a call for leadership and unity for the team in the ship. The only used for Hobbe’s principle is for its leader of the ship, which he needs to look more on how he can find and implement rules more effectively and from there is that to establish the principle of Aristotle’s unity in achieving the over-all vision of the team. (Nordhoff, Charles and Hall, James Norman. (Nordhoff, Charles and Hall, James Norman, 1962, pp. 3-71). Work Cited Page Adler, Ronald and Russell, Proctor II. Looking Out, Looking In., US: Wadsworth Publishing, 2006. Nordhoff, Charles and Hall, James Norman. Pitcairn Island., Boston, USA: Little, Brown, and Company, 1962. Work Cited Bassman, E. (1992). Abuse in the Workplace: Management Remedies and Bottom Line Impact. Westport, CT: Stourum Press, 1992.

Sling Blade

Growing up as a child for Karl was hard. His parents were abusive, being so young and naive he did not know any better. Karl parents also made him do horrific things, such as giving him his baby brother and telling him to get rid of it. After Karl spending several years in a hospital institution because he killed his mother and her boyfriend. Karl is let loose. Despite all of the events that happen in his childhood and life, he turned out to be a humble, kind and gentle person. Karl will now begin his new life in the world. While out in the new world Karl meets a little boy name Frank. Karl helps him with his laundry bags carrying them for him home. Karl is placed in a world where he is confused and has no sense of direction where to go. He has no family besides his dad, but does not seem to want to visit him. Karl owns nothing but three books, the clothing on his back and has nowhere to stay. Gerry Karl’s doctor finds Karl a job fixing mechanic equipment, which allowed him to live there also. Karl goes back to visit Frank and meet his mom Linda and her boyfriend Doyle. Later on Karl moves in with them. Doyle Hargrave is a disrespectable person, who lacks the ability to be a father figure to Frank. He puts his friends down, curses and fights with Linda all the time. He has no remorse for nothing he does. Karl tries to keep Frank in line when he often says â€Å"I wish Doyle was dead† or curses and encourages him. Karl becomes Frank’s role model. Learning about Frank’s hatred towards Doyle, Karl is willing to sacrifice his freedom to save Frank. Doyle permanently moves in with Linda and will now pay the bills. In other words he is in charge and so he asks Karl to leave. Karl has been a role model for Frank and considers Frank special to him. Karl is also brave enough to stand up to Doyle when he attempts to lay his hands on Frank. Now that Karl is leaving Frank will forever be unhappy. It seems as if Doyle will never change his ways and Frank might end up getting hurt. Karl fixes the laundry machine so that Frank’s burden is lightened instead of him struggling with laundry bag

Speech errors Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Speech errors - Essay Example Phonetic errors include pronunciation mistakes in speech. Phonemes also refer to the sounds that people make during speech. Such errors are equally common and often affect the effectiveness of the communication process. While such are common errors, people are not always likely to make specific mistakes during speech. Among such are the verb tense agreements. Psycholinguists explain that the types of common errors portray unique features of the brain. The brain of a speaker at any given time coordinates a series of activities all of which ensures the manifestation of an error during the tie of speech. A speech process is an extensive process that requires the effective coordination of the facts a speaker presents besides the need to coordinate sentence structures in order to enhance the effectiveness of a speech. Balances and checks depending on the tasks of the speaker often characterize the mental state of a speaker. Public speaking among others for example always entails a series of activities all of which require the effective coordination of the body. Sentence construction and speech production are key features of a speech. Other additional activities include body movements and nonverbal communication among others. Such are basic features of speech that enhance the effectiveness of the communication process. The brain that acts as the central processing unit of the body systematically coordinates he activities of the body during a speech thus enhancing the speech depending on the stability and composure of the speaker.

Stone Mountain Ga. and surrounding area Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Stone Mountain Ga. and surrounding area - Essay Example It has the world’s largest exposed mass granite and the third largest monolith in the world. The Stone Mountain in Northern Georgia boosts a mysterious history with a lot of unanswered questions. Despite that, Stone Mountain is known today for its beauty and exquisite bas relief. Three figures from the Confederate States of America have been carved here; Stonewall Jackson, Robert E. Lee and Jefferson Davis. Stone Mountain is host to the Stone Mountain Park which is the major tourist attraction there at the site. In addition to that-it plays a major role in Georgia’s eco-system as well as its economy. Thesis Statement: A detailed research into the geological formation, History and economic value of Stone Mountain. 1. Formation of Stone Mountain 2. Most prevalent rock types 2.1 Granite Rock 2.2 Gneiss Rock 3. How old is Stone Mountain? 4. Birth of Stone Mountain 5. Plate tectonics relative to the creation of Stone Mountain 6. Weathering in Stone Mountain 6.1 Physical Weat hering 6.2 Chemical Weathering 6.3 Biological Weathering 6.4 Analysis of Weathering in Stone Mountain 7. Types of Rocks in Stone Mountain 8. The Georgia Piedmont 9. Resources in Stone Mountain 1.0 Formation of Stone Mountain Georgia’s geologic formation is extremely fascinating and is suspected to have covered a billion year period. Influenced by different formations and erosions from mountain ranges and geologic events such as severe climatic changes, and volcanic eruptions and flooding -Georgia’s geology still sparks mysterious questions. The compilation of these geologic events has led to the formation of a historical landmark known today as Stone Mountains. With reference to Larry Worthy’s article ‘Stone Mountain Natural History’ (exclusively for About North Georgia, 1994-2011) Stone Mountain at its highest point stands a mighty 1683 feet above sea level and sits on the western edge of a large belt of Lithonia Gneiss granite although the younger intrusive granite that comprises the mountain is entirely different from Lithonia granite. Commonly referred to as a granite dome manadnock, Stone Mountain’s development disseminated through several counties and provides a significant amount of bas relief. The formation of the Stone Mountain is still pondered by many geologists with a lot of unanswered questions. However, based on reviewed literature it is safe to say; water, desert like conditions and glacial features played a vital role in its formation. First up, the Stone Mountain in Georgia was formed during the last stages of the Alleghenian Orogeny which also created the Appalachian Mountains. Technically speaking, the ‘stress’ and ‘pressure’ from the Alleghenian Orogeny caused huge uplifts of land in the Northern Georgia region to form mountains. As far as water impacting Stone Mountain’s formation goes; many geologists believe that the Piedmont was higher than the mountain at one poi nt and as millions of years passed the water slowly eroded leaving so much of the Stone Mountain granite exposed. On the other hand, in the Researcher’s opinion, its formative exposure could be due to heat and pressure inside the earth alongside the divergent occurrences of plate tectonic processes. In addition to that, the desert like conditions in the area help to define the mineral composition of the different rock types found in the region. 2.0 Most Prevalent Rock Types on Stone Mountain Rocks from the Stone Mountains belong to the three major classifications

E-Commerce Critique Business Structure and Model Essay

E-Commerce Critique Business Structure and Model - Essay Example In this essay, the author will look into the benefits and risk of e-commerce, the types of legislation that have been introduced to protect the consumer and business alike. E-commerce is the easiest, most convenient way of conducting business over the internet for business professionals and individuals. Conducting business over the internet is simply visiting specific websites, also referred to as surfing the web, for online shopping or business related matters. E-commerce is defined as any kind of transaction performed over the internet where there is an exchange of money for goods or services. A transaction like that is paid for through the use of a credit card. E-commerce occurs when individuals use the internet by visiting websites for online shopping of goods or services. It also occurs when business professionals surf the web to conduct business with other business professionals. There is a close analogy between a website that sells woman’s clothing and a store at the ma ll that also sells woman’s clothing, here referred to as an online store. One of the differences between a retail store and an online store is that while the store has limited hours of operation, an online store is open twenty-four hours a day and seven days a week. Finally, one other difference between a retail store and an online store is that a retail store offers a shopper more options of payment while an online store requires a payment by a credit card only. Download this essay and you will get your A+.

Utilitarianism and morality Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Utilitarianism and morality - Essay Example This theoretical standpoint was reiterated by Jeremy Bentham who made the proposition that an action is right in proportion as it tends to promote pleasure or happiness, and (an action is also) wrong as it tends to produce the reverse of the happiness. Taking a Position on whether Utilitarianism Is Correct to Condone These Actions, Given the Circumstances It is not agreeable that utilitarianism is right to condone these actions, depending on circumstances. One of the reasons why one may disagree with utilitarian’s act of condoning some actions is because, fundamentally, utilitarianism is a form of consequentialism. This is seen in the utilitarians’ postulation which states that pleasure and freedom from pain are the only things that are desirable as ends. In this light, an action is regarded as morally wrong or right, depending entirely on its consequences. In this light, an action is considered morally right if it produces the best outcome of choices that have been ava iled. The flipside of this is that if an action does not produce the best outcome, then it is not right. According to Sedaris, the import of the foregoing is that actions are regarded as morally right if the greatest number benefit from it, yet there are instances where morally right standards or values may not be popular among the masses but among a few. An apt example which repudiates utilitarians’ consequentialist approach is democracy.... This is because the ethics and morality have fundamentals that surpass the concept of gain. An action is right not because it benefits the greatest number but because it is, in its essence, legitimate. It is not, for instance, ethically or morally right for an organization to whimsically decide to punctiliously trim employees’ emoluments on the mere account that such a move will increase the organization’s profit margin and shareholders’ dividend. Even if the employees being shortchanged may be few and too weak to defend themselves or resist the move and the organization have accrued increased profits, the move remains intrinsically immoral since it amounts to the betrayal of an already operational agreement or contract between the employee and the employer. Similarly, the move remains immoral simply because it amounts to the exploitation of the weak and not because it merely does not benefit the greatest number. Again, utilitarians’ act of condoning an ac tion based on the fact that it benefits the greatest number is unacceptable,simply because it reduces human beings and the concept of morality to a matter of statistics. As long as the beneficiaries outweigh the number of the shortchanged, then that action is regarded as legitimate, and the shortchanged minority is bypassed as collateral damage. Again, by saying that an act is ethically legitimate depending on its ability to benefit the greatest number of people is to reduce moral duties to a matter of popularity. This means that (the observation of) moral duty such as telling the truth and doing honest business is no longer an absolute or really necessary. Even though Emanuel Kant advances that people

Case#6 Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

#6 - Case Study Example With regard to its definition, a visionary leader is a leader who is able to articulate their dream for an organization and inspire followers, allowing them to move together towards a shared dream of the future. The basis of my definition is that the ultimate role of visionary leadership is facilitative and an ideal principal is often to merely facilitate the vision rather than single handedly transforming an organization (school) within a given period of time (Mendels, 2012, P.55, Column 2, L. 2). As seen in the case study, Susan is seen alluding to a community culture means she is indirectly calling to attention the important of the beliefs, values as well as the collective thoughts of those who belonged to the broader community of the school. This is likely to be based on her strong personal belief that developing a school vision is a collective responsibility that should be carried out by all members and stakeholders of the broader school community. Generally, the potential conflict between professionalism and democracy often take a number of forms. Democracies often require taking into account the opinions of other members of an organization before making decisions. However, this may result in a time consuming bureaucratic process that may negatively affect efficiency and professionalism in the school or organization as more time may be required and compromise may have to be reached. For Example, during administrative decision making, responsiveness may require adherence to professionalism while the principle of democratic accountability demands adherence to the popular will or democracy (West-Burnham, 2003, P. 10, L.7). Based on my knowledge of school administration, the role that the principal plays in the building of the school vision is simply be participate and facilitate reaching a consensus on a vision that reflect the collective thoughts of the broader school community as opposed to single handedly

Research Proposal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 4

Research Proposal - Essay Example For instance, IBM is availing opportunities to enable managers to obtain necessary skills as well as an orientation for coping with the different culture (Okoro, 2013). According to Kawar (2012), cross-cultural communication can be defined as the study of how people of different cultural background can communicate with each in relation to same or different topics. Kawar (2012) also, addresses that today cross-cultural communication is essential for international business due to the development of global business, internet and technology (Kawar, 2012). Okoro (2013), also addresses that cross cultural communication is essential in international business for conducting the different needs of IBM effectively with the use of advanced technologies and internet. Through the cross-cultural communication, managers at IBM Limited can communicate with the people belonging from different cultures. In addition, it can effectively gain insight into the different operations that needs to be undertaken for conducting successful international business (Okoro, 2013). According to Guang & Trotter (2012), for the enhancement of successful international business, there should be collaboration between various departments at Coal India Limited and the cross-cultural communication. However, Guang & Trotter (2012), in his article does not cover what types of problem a manager can face in the process of communicating with people of foreign countries while travelling abroad for the first time. Therefore, there should be further research related to the sele cted topic to mitigate the number of gaps. These gaps should be identified to develop potential solutions through which the problem can be solved (Guang & Trotter, 2012). On the other hand, Matthews & Thakkar (2012) comments, there should be effective communication among the managers and juniors employees to reduce the organizational problem and chances of grapevine in communication could be reduced largely.

Case Study 4 Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Case Study 4 - Research Paper Example There is need to embrace analytics in the health care sectors with the intention of shunning medical experts’ diagnosis opinion without statistical learning approach. The predictive analytics is accurate, and has an arithmetical learning approach because one only needs to acquire knowledge on how to use the analytics (5th European & Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership Forum, 2010). Question 2 The predictive analytics plays a significant role in the provision of intelligent decision support that helps in lowering the healthcare treatment costs. Combination of effective DSS and smart analytics can help in preventing costly diagnostic errors because many sources of data can be processed and changed into meaningful information with time (Chih-Lin, Nick & David, 2000). This is especially vital in the current world where the demand for health care is higher than the supply. This means that the DSS helps improving the efficiency of health process. For examples, it helps in reducing test duplication and unfavorable events. ... Question 3 The DSS has played a vital part in the EuResit projects in various ways. First, the project deals with huge patient and therapist data. Besides, the DSS combined with predictive analytics has been helpful in the projects because they help in the faster data processing. This has helped is saving time consequently shortening the projects duration. Through this system, the medical experts could easily compare subjects’ data in the project. Additionally, DSS has been helpful in the projects since it has helped in reducing the project costs. Reduction of costs occurs due to the shortening of the data processing time. DSS is also used in the ViroLab in the projects to prevent the researchers from conducting the same tests twice (Michael, Kai, & Rema, 2007). The DSS has been valuable in determining the right combination of drugs in the projects. This is vital since it prevented the overdose of patients that could lead to drug resistance. The system did this by creating sta ndard datum. The use of the DSS has also been helpful in providing immediate feedback, and conducting diagnosis in the project. This has been supportive in preventing the medical errors that result from poor diagnosis that eventually leads to drug related toxicity. However, the DSS has enabled the researchers to create precise patient model that has been helpful in reducing the occurrence of the toxicity. Additionally, the prevention of toxicity has also been achievable in the projects because of the DSS’ ability to predict the response of patients to the treatments used in the project (Peter, Mark, Brent, Swarna, et al, 2001). Question 4 The EuResists might face resistance from both medical expert and patients. Many

Effect of Unethical Behavior Article Analysis (ACCOUNTING COURSEWORK) Assignment

Effect of Unethical Behavior Article Analysis (ACCOUNTING COURSEWORK) - Assignment Example Hence, enabling wise investments; this will not only benefit the individual firms but also augment the state’s economic stability. Accounting malpractices presently assume numerous forms that are evident both in the regime’s institutions and in individual corporations. For illustration, inaccurate financial records that result from an intentional manipulation by the responsible individuals (Bisoux, 2005). Since, they do have hidden intentions meant to benefit themselves via presenting false figures that would derail the key organizations’ auditing process. Primarily, these staffs encompass the accountants who are responsible in the daily handling of accounting books. The individuals usually manipulate figures to equal a false amount after colluding with fellow workers and have chopped some amount, hence trying to make a cover up. In some incidents, these malpractices may entail the top officials, but mostly evident amid the middle staffs (Bisoux, 2005). Additionally, the malpractices may entail misusing funds via channeling them in diverse directions to cater for expenses not intended for or inappropriate. For illustration, overspending especially in a venture where the undertakers or those pioneering team would benefit in some way. This deprives the firm the necessary financial resources meant for boosting its sustainability or expansion and instead starts encountering difficulties in its management (Bisoux, 2005). Consequently, this financial misappropriation will indirectly will feature in its accounting standings. This would be via meticulous study by potential investors who will notice the evident misappropriation and decline in investing in it. Since the inception of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, numerous organizations and even regimes have recorded an growth of their economic stability (Bisoux, 2005). This emanates from the accountability, which the act has instilled

My Psychosocial Stage of Development Essay Example for Free

My Psychosocial Stage of Development Essay My Psychosocial Stage of Development S. Pulliam April, 2011 First I would like to define psychosocial development; this is the development of the personality or the acquisition of social attitude and skill from infancy through maturity. Based on the charting from Erickson’s Psychosocial Stages of Development, I fall into two separate categories based on my age. From the beliefs of Erickson, he believed that the achievements and failures of earlier stages influence later stages, whereas later stages modify and transform earlier ones (Erickson, 1980). The first is Young Adulthood and the second is Middle Adulthood. In the two stages from the chart the information is based on (Young adulthood) Intimacy v/s Isolation and the second one (Middle Adulthood) is based on Generativity v/s Stagnation Work and Parenthood Adults. Although there are two separate stages in the psychosocial stages that I fall under, I feel that I am at the midpoint for each and I have decided to consider both aspects in doing my psychosocial stages of development. To explain how the two stages correlate to my life, I decided in the last year to settle down and get married this is based on my young adulthood information from Erickson’s chart. The reason there is a correlation to my life based on Erickson’s chart under middle adulthood id because my life had children prior to the marriage but I am taking a more active role in being involved with activities and school when it comes to my children. In looking at my current psychosocial stage of development influence on my behavior and relationship, I find that I am a calm, and not hard to get along with even under pressure situations that has occurred with us based on my jealous tendencies and insecure ways because of previous relationship and not being with the father of my children. The influence that I see in young adulthood over my relationship is that there is a need for intimacy but not a major desire to have it on a regular basis. The isolation comes from not being so open and friendly to other males in my life or surrounding because of my relationship with my husband. I have male friends that I am social with but I do not allow the intimacy line to be crossed because of my relationship with my husband. The influence that I see in middle adulthood is the need to have a nurturing relationship with my children and creating a positive change to benefit my children lives. In looking at this I made changes in the way I approached my children and how I would not shelter them from the truth when they would ask me questions but give them true answer to their question. As small children I did not feel the need to give much explanation to my children’s questions but now I try to explain everything to them without being untruthful to them or give them false ideas about what is going on around them. To explain the positive and negative outcomes to psychosocial stages of development, I would have to say that there are many positive and negative but the few that stand out to me the most are. First negative outcome, getting over insecurities I had about the intimacy relationship that I chose to take on after breaking off a 10 year relationship with my children’s father. The second negative outcome was getting over the trust issues I had before going into the current marriage that I am in right now. The third negative outcome was getting pass the change of personality and ways I had to endure going into the marriage and getting use to a new personality and making the changes on both parts to make our marriage work to the best of our ability. Based on this information I feel that the positive outcomes to the psychosocial stages of Erickson were in a good way and I can see the difference in my life and marriage. First positive outcome was that I am able to trust again within my relationship with my husband. The second positive outcome was that I made a strong bond with my children and I have not only been a mother to my children but I am the friend that my children confide in when they have feeling they want to express. The third positive outcome I see is that I am calm and stress free with the way I deal with problem within my relationship and I am able to compromise with my spouse when we do not agree on things. In evaluating how other developmental issues have influenced my personality, I would have to say that during my early childhood life I dealt with a few attachment issues with my mother. I feel that during this stage I did not bond with my mother like most children tend to do when the mother is present because she was pre-occupied with her career as a teacher and coaching. So during this age I was in close relationship with my father and I never felt the true connection with myself and my mother like so many girls or women tend to have with a mother. Most of my time I spent with my father and aunts when I was in my early childhood age so I did not really know that much about my mother other than she coached and taught physical education. I admired what she did so I took on the quest of becoming a physical education teacher as well. In School age time I had to bare a lot of pressure in participating in sports and in my school work because the expectation was so high on me to achieve my education and athletic abilities because of what my mother represented in our community. At the same time I was pressured by other students because they felt that the only reason I made the team was because of my mother not because of my own ability. Once I graduated my goals with education were so different. I felt more of the need to help others in crisis situation so I went back to school to get my degree in mental health and social work and that is still my drive today. So from this experience I feel that I have a very strong personality in spite of the way so many tried to bring me down and I am a true fighter for what I believe in deep within my heart. My personality from what I can see is a driving force of who I am and I refuse to be compared to my mother in my quest to achieve greater feats in my life and the way I live my life. It is okay to be compared to her but I know that I could never be my mother or even like her because my drive and ambition is so different from the way she handles things. References http://www. support4change. com/stages/cycles/Erikson. html Erikson E. , 1980. Identity and the Life Cycle. Norton, New York http://currentnursing. com/nursing_theory/theory_of_psychosocial_development. html

Violent Crime Victims: Social Work Practices

Violent Crime Victims: Social Work Practices Chanchez M. Smith Abstract In this paper, I will discuss generalist social work practice with victims of a violent crime. The following elements will be included: a clearly defined victim population of my choice; the nature of the crime; ethical issues that may affect social work practice or that could impact practice with the population that I chose, or value conflicts that a social worker may experience (such as conflicts between professional and personal values, personal and client values, or professional values and client values). Policy issues that may influence social work practice will also be included. Violent crime is defined as an action or deed that results to causation of bodily harm and physical injury to another person. Violence has been a part of human history (Garland, 2012). Since the onslaught of evolution when early men settled their scores by means of brawl to the present day when the vice has taken up a widespread and more encompassing concept, it seems that violence will remain a part of human history for the foreseeable future. Previously, violence was used as means of indicating displeasure at a second party’s sayings or deeds. It was also used as a way of marking territory and making conquests. In some communities and groups, violence was used in induction and initiation into certain levels of the society. Today, apart from the factors mentioned above, violence has taken up a different form and is a target of both the defenceless and otherwise. There are different types of violent crime. These include assault, armed robbery, kidnapping, homicide (for instanc e murder) and sexual assault crimes among a host of others. People from virtually all walks of life can fall victim to these types of crimes. In particular, violence against women and children has become common in today’s society. Women have been on the receiving end of violent crimes of various types, most commonly rape and sexual assault (Stith, McCollum, Amanorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Boadu, Smith, 2012). Children on the other hand are more commonly the victims of kidnap and assault. The role of the society with regard to occurrence of violent crimes is of immense importance when trying to establish the causative factors and means and measures of countering the vice. As social beings, our interactions, thoughts, actions and sayings are largely determined by our environment and upbringing. Thus, the society is largely involved in the making of violent people. Research reveals that most people who exhibit elements of violent behaviour have an underlying problem attributable to the society. This could be due to a troubled childhood in which the parents divorced when the offender was young, or lack of parental care (due to other causes such as being raised up in a children’s home), drug and substance abuse, mental problems or even poverty. Poverty is strongly linked to a number of violent crimes, most commonly robbery, kidnappings and gun violence. The society is also involved in the punishment accorded to such people and the way forward in terms of correction and rehabilitation. Through legislation of laws and making of rules that govern a people, the repercussions of violent crimes are and should be spelt out. In that way, those tempted to engage in such crimes are deterred. This aspect should be two sided such that the correctional aspect should also be factored in. The role of the society in rehabilitation of offenders with regard to violent crimes is immensely important. A system that allows the offender to realize the mistakes he/she made and work towards amending them will serve a greater purpose than that which only highlights the faults made without a clear means of overcoming and changing the violent nature. Victim Population This paper highlights women and children as the victim population that bears the brunt of the most commonly committed and the most heinous violent crimes. In the case of children, those aged between five and twelve years have a higher predisposition while in the case of women, all age groups are generally susceptible (Barner Carney, 2011). Notwithstanding the country or region, violence against women and children is becoming increasingly common. Further, the rate at which such offences are being carried out is alarming with research revealing that in spite of this, most cases go unreported altogether. Take an example of Australia, a country largely considered to be peaceful and exemplary with regard to crime management. A research conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics with regard to Personal Safety revealed what was becoming a disturbing trend. The research was carried out in 2005 to measure domestic violence and sexual assault directed towards women. According to the fin dings, about 5 percent (363,000) of the women in the country experienced some form of violence, either by people known to them or unknown offenders in that year alone. Among the people known to the victims, most cases involved husbands, particularly with regard to domestic violence. Findings from the study also revealed that 1.6 per cent (126,100) of the female population had experienced sexual violence. Further, 33 per cent (2.56 million) of women in the country have experienced physical violence since they were fifteen years old. 19 per cent (1.47 million) have experienced sexual violence since they were 15. From the results, one can draw that one out of every five women has experienced sexual assault since they were fifteen while one out of three has experienced some form of violence (Daly, 2012). As regards children, kidnapping is arguably the most common type of violence faced by most countries around the world although there are a significant number of cases involving child battery and assault too. A country synonymous with child kidnappings is Mexico. In Mexico, drug cartels have formed a formidable force and combining this with connections in the justice system and money to burn, are causing all sorts of trouble to authorities. However, the people with the greatest headache are parents, particularly rich folks. In Mexico, child abduction is often carried out with the intention of demanding ransom. The money is then used to service and propagate other criminal activities. On the other hand, killing of children is carried out for a more disturbing purpose; to prove to the world their ruthlessness and to exert their authority! Human rights groups in Mexico estimate that between 2006 and 2010, 994 youngsters (below 18 years) had been killed in drug related violence. Adding th e number of those abducted and exposed to other forms of violent crime results to the figures multiplying more than 100 fold. Interestingly, when it comes to international abductions, Mexico and the United States have a lot in common. This is highlighted by the fact that most children abducted in the US find their way to Mexico where they can be used as bait to demand ransom or sold to childless couples. In the same way, a good number of kidnapped children in Mexico are moved to the US where they find new families. Nature of Sexual Assault and Child Abduction Sexual assault and domestic violence against women is not only demeaning and degrading but also comes with a great deal of emotional turmoil to the victims. There have been cases of women committing suicide after falling victim to sexual assault. In other cases reported, the victims become withdrawn and may develop a negative attitude towards men. It is also common to find women suffering from mental problems such as stress and depression after incidents of sexual assault and violence. In some communities and regions, the blame is usually placed on the woman’s head (Daly, 2012). This makes the recovery process even more difficult as the victim is made to feel like she brought the misfortune upon herself. Child abduction usually culminates to a whole lot of problems, not only to the victim but also to the society. Many abducted children are used as a bargaining chip for demanding ransom. However, in other cases, child abduction is carried out with a different intention, one of which is child pornography. This has been an emerging issue in which children are kidnapped and forced into engaging into sexual acts. These are then taped, recorded and sold. The business of sexual exploitation of children is becoming common. This is attributable to the high levels of profits made by the people engaging in such outlawed activities. For instance, in Atlanta, children as young as eleven years of age have fallen victim to the activities of unscrupulous people in the name of pimps. To the child victim, the introduction to a corrupted world at such a tender age may change the outlook of their lives and the nature of their future. Such children usually end up becoming drug addicts posing a new challe nge to governments and the society. They may become social misfits, who end up engaging in outlawed activities as a way of ‘paying back’ for what they went through. The victims may also become withdrawn and develop psychological problems as a result. Ethical Issues involved Most studies reveal that a significant number of cases of violence go unreported. In particular, cases of domestic violence against women are usually hushed up within the confines of the house. Domestic violence and even sexual assault are usually regarded as private incidences that need not be shared with the rest of the world. In some communities and regions in the world, a woman suffering physical violence in the hands of their husbands is quite normal. In others women who fall victim to sexual assault are largely viewed as the orchestrators of their own downfall; they are often believed to be the reason for the assault in the first place. This could be through their way of dressing, mannerisms or other factors. As a result, women in such communities suffer in silence knowing that the community would judge them harshly if they reveal the goings-on. What victims who fail to report cases of violence do not realize is that keeping quiet instead of reporting or talking about it does m ore harm than good (Garland, 2012). Failure to report the crimes may pose a challenge with regard to development of strategies and solutions for overcoming the vices. To begin with, it is difficult to point out victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. Even if they could be pointed out, without their willingness and cooperation it would be difficult to come up with a solution. Failure to report the ordeal in the first place amounts to lack of cooperation. In addition, by failing to report the crime, the victims directly and indirectly contribute to the continuation of the crime. For example, in the case of sexual assault, failure to report rules out the chance of tracking and nabbing the offender. This means that any other woman out there is a potential victim. In the case of domestic violence, failure to report denies other victims the courage to speak out and potential victims are also denied justice as they come into a society where the status quo is already predetermined. A social worker is also likely to come against values that challenge his/her own beliefs. For instance, coming from a more free and liberal society to interact with a community in which violence against women is considered part and parcel of life, the social worker may find it hard to adjust to the new set up. What he/she consistently views as wrong and unacceptable is, on the contrary tolerated. In Mexico, reporting of crimes is almost certain not to occur. The ruthlessness with which the drug cartels handle their victims is beyond imagination. Reporting such crimes only earn the persons involved a ticket for graver repercussions. Research reveals that even the media, including newspapers are forbidden by the cartels not to report incidences of crime; they have no choice but to abide. More specifically, child abduction is a common occurrence but which occurs right under the noses of the authorities and the society but the cases are hardly reported. In the same way, the activities that the children are made to undertake (such as child pornography) are difficult to report even by those who are not directly involved in the crimes due to ethical concerns. For example, it may appear ethically inappropriate to report cases of sexual molestation and exploitation of children in light of the unspoken taboos that revolve around sex. Even to a social worker, sometimes it may come with a level of discomfort when talking about sexual issues with children as the centre stage. This may directly contradict the values of a social worker who does not believe in premarital sex or any other kind of sex apart from that between married people. Policy Issues that may Influence practice Violence directed towards children and women can only be successfully managed with input from all stakeholders. This includes the victims, the society and governments. In particular, governments have a major role to play as they determine much to do with policies and legislations (Garland, 2012). If the government supports and encourages a free and liberal society, it will advocate for measures that provide a platform for reporting and subsequently dealing with offenders. This will serve to give the victims a voice and an assurance that their plight is taken into account. Provision of such an avenue should also be accompanied with measures that help the victims recover from the ordeal. This may include providing counselling programs and keeping the victims under watch to observe their progress and recovery In addition, policies that promote the role of the society and social workers in aiding victims of violence go a long way in aiding the management of the vice. Social Work Practice with Victims of Violent Crime The role of social work with regard to helping victims of violent crime cope is vital for their recovery and healing. In most cases, social workers engage victims in talks that though may seem and sound simple yet actually achieve a lot. The experience of sharing alone is enough to take a whole load of burden off the victim’s shoulder (Gitterman, 2013). In the process of sharing, the social worker gets the chance to interact with the victim at a personal level and to empathize. This is very important for the recovery of the victim. He/she needs to feel that someone understands the ordeal they went through, the predicament they are in and that the person is willing to listen and even offer pieces of advice. Social work may also act as an eye-opener to the goings-on in the society. Through knowledge, skills and experience, the social worker may be able to unearth facts about the community that were previously unknown. Facts to do with their beliefs, values and culture may offer insight into their way of life (Gitterman, 2013). Conclusion Violence against women and children is not a problem restricted to particular countries or regions. Rather it is a global menace (Barner Carney, 2011). According a 2013 global review of data, 35 per cent of women all around the world have experienced some form of violence. In some countries, the findings are even more alarming with reports of up to 70 percent of women having fallen victim to violence. Research also reveals that of all women who were killed in 2012, about half died in the hands family members or better halves. With this information in mind, it is important that communities and countries around the world demand for more from their governments and from themselves in the fight against violence directed towards women and children. The causes and the outcomes of violence against women and children stem from and affect the society at the end of the day. Therefore, the solution should come from the society in the first place. References Barner, J. R., Carney, M. M. (2011). Interventions for Intimate Partner Violence:  A Historical Review. Journal of Family Violence, 26(3), 235-244. Daly, K. (2012). Conferences and Gendered Violence: Practices, Politics, and Evidence.  Conferencing and restorative justice: International Practices and Perspectives, 117-135. Garland, D. (2012). The Culture of Control: Crime and Social Order in Contemporary  Society. University of Chicago Press. Gitterman, A. (Ed.). (2013). Handbook of Social Work Practice with Vulnerable and  Resilient Populations. Columbia University Press. Stith, S. M., McCollum, E. E., Amanorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Boadu, Y., Smith, D. (2012). Systemic  Perspectives on Intimate Partner Violence Treatment. Journal of Marital and Family  Therapy, 38(1), 220-240.

The Environment Of Perhentian Island, Malaysia

The Environment Of Perhentian Island, Malaysia For many small islands tourism is economically significant as a source of income and employment. Islands, especially small islands, continue to fascinate and attract tourists, and for tropical Less Developed Countries (LDCs) such as Malaysia with many offshore islands, developers and government planners see the potential to develop resorts. However, what if small islands that already host international tourism, even small-scale such as backpackers? What issues and tensions might emerge as these small island destinations face significant change? Peninsular Malaysia has many small islands off the east coast, they all have become increasingly popular among foreign and local tourist alike. Islands like Perhentian is drawing more and more people to visit and this popularity although good for the economics has brought about a mass tourism phenomenon whereby large amounts of people visit the island at one given time thus crowding the island. This drives the tourism authorities, hotels and t our operators to supply to the demand, focusing more on the mass tourism and the revenue it generates, thus neglecting the environmental degradation that brings about many negative impacts to the island. Many conservation programmes have been since embarked by the tourism authorities after realising the need for protection for the environment but most are just ad hoc and has not been sustained. The Perhentian islands off the east coast of peninsula Malaysia have been a tourism destination since the late 1980s when backpackers à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã… ¾discoveredà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã… ¸ these islands. The two main islands of perhentian have experienced differing forms of development since then, and this island has since attracted more and more visitors to its majestic islands. And this paper examines how mass tourism can affect a particular destination as a result of its popularity. 1.2 Research question What are the effects of mass tourism to the environment of Pulau Perhentian that will be my research question My problem comes with mass and advancing tourism industry and its effect to the natural setting that we have in Perhentian Island. Urbanization is not indeed a problem to anyone, judging by the way everyone is living compared to 20 years back. The convenience to carry out a task is made so simple by so many gadgets, storing, managing and sharing data and information has never been easier after the invention of the internet and so on. Its a virtual world now that we are living in. Tourism is the no 1 hospitality industry in the world, with the advancement of technology in transportation and information transfer. Booking, choosing, travelling and experiencing has never been more easy. But have we ever stop to think what is required for us to experience these holidays? Hotel? Land? Natural resource? , and have we ever taken a step back to think what and how our activities have done to our environment? I am not arguing saying that tourism industry is the main cause of all the pollution and devastation caused. But in this paper I am going to show what some irresponsible stakeholders have done to Perhentian and how our mother nature suffers while watching us frolicking. 1.3 Research objectives Malaysia is a country which embraces its modernity while its tradition and world old charm, together with this is its thriving beauty of the natural setting, the tropical jungles and its diverse ecosystem. Therefore this destination is fuelled by an increasing number of local and international tourists, and with advancement of global communication, the numbers are rocketing up. But with the increasing number of tourist host and suppliers in Malaysia need to cater to the demand thus causing development and urbanization, and thus causing Malaysia to lose much of its land, rain forest, sacrificing endangered species of animals along the way This research has three specific objectives in order to understand the impact of mass tourism to the environment. The first objective is to examine perhentian island which have been affected, the result of these pollutions and to prove that these pollutions are caused by mass tourism activities. The second objective is to understand how government, NGOs and the public are doing to preserve the environment. The third objective is to provide solutions and ideas that can be used for the future of tourism and also preserve the environment at the same time so that tourism and sustainability can coexist without destroying each other. 1.4 Significant of studies This research provides several benefits to the tourism industry , the local community and Perhentian island. This research will help to show how mass tourism has been affecting the natural setting of perhentian island, and the danger that it poses to the endangered species of animals that share the islands warm water and jungles with us. Second, by identifying the cause and effect of the damage to perhentian island, measures can be than taken by local authorities and other government bodies to preserve the remaining of the island and set boundaries and rules which may in return bring back the balance in the ecosystem and the natural setting of perhentian island. Third, by implementing ;travel laws in perhentian , this would help to reduce on the damage that has hit perhentian. And help to preserve the environment and its ecosystem for the younger generation to experience. Lastly, this research also contributes knowledge to sustain the natural setting not only in perhentian but also other destinations in Malaysia that could face the same problem as Perhentian. 1.5 Limitations of studies This research is done to identify the relationships between Mass tourism activity and its direct impact to Perhentian island. Besides that, this research examines the results of such activity and the solutions that can be resorted to in order to maintain a balance. This research is conducted in Perhentian Island, Malaysia. Interviews will be carried out to both local and international tourists who are visiting Perhentian. . The sample size is limited to 100 respondents. As perhentian is a small island 2.0 Literature review 2.1 Mass tourism What is tourism? There is no single definition of tourism which everyone uses. Many definitions have been used over the years, some of which are universal and can be applied to any situation, and others terms for a more specific purpose. Different tourism organisation, for example, often devises definitions that satisfy their own specific requirements. The more universal definition builds on Goeldner and Ritchie (2006) Tourism may be defined as the sum of the processes, activities and outcomes arising from the relationship and the interaction among tourist, tourism suppliers, host governments, host communities and surrounding environments that are involved in the attracting, transporting, hosting and management of tourist and other visitors. Tourism according to the Cambridge online dictionary states that its the business of providing services such as transport, places to stay or entertainment for people who are on holiday. Meanwhile the oxford online dictionary says that its the commercial organization and operation of holidays and visits to places of interest. What is mass tourism Mass tourism is the act of visiting a leisure destination with large amounts of people at one time. The development of mass tourism is parallel to the development and improvements of technology. Transportation and internet has evolved so much in time , making communication fast and easy, this allows tourist to research, find out and book and even pay for their holidays online, this thus contributing to the rise of mass tourism, besides that the improvement in technology in the transportation industry also helps in the transport of large numbers of people in a short space of time to places of leisure interest, so that greater numbers of people could begin to enjoy the benefits of leisure time. Mass tourism has always been the subject of criticism for its negative impacts around the world. Many books point out mass tourisms potentially destructive impacts on societies, culture and environment. Many authors condemned and still condemn this mass consumption and those who enjoy it. Actually the debate over the advantages and the disadvantages of tourism has raged incessantly and will continue. Tourism development in many places, and especially mass tourism, has led to deterioration in environment quality. In the 1960s, the effects of mass tourism and the increasing awareness of the human impacts on the environment led to a general state that nature is not an inexhaustible resource. Relation between environment and tourism Today, one can assist to a high degree of sensibility for the natural environment. The reason is that tourism is the only economical sector that offers natural environment as a very important part of its product. In other words, the natural environment is a key element of the tourism activity. Krippendorf (1982) the landscape is the real raw material of tourism; it is the reason for the existence of tourism as well as its economic driving force. It highlights the fact that tourist product quality is linked with environment quality. This highly dependence between tourism and environment is often used as basic argument to make the tourism industry aware about the negative impacts of mass tourism on the environment. MA European Tourism Management Environment The environment constitutes a tourism resource and has to be considered as a part of the tourism product because no other economic sector is so vitally and directly affected by environmental quality (Mieczkowski, J. 1995). This close relationship or interdependence between tourism and environment, Mieczkowski (1995 ) defines it as the environmental part of tourism Multiple surveys confirm the hypothesis that the quality of natural environment constitutes the primary factors that attracted the present-day tourist (WTO, 1983: 28). So, if tourism wants to survive, it seems imperative to reach this harmony between people and nature. It is the only way to minimize the costs of tourism on the environment and permit the tourist to enjoy undisturbed nature. (Mieczkowski, J. 1995) This symbiotic relation, term used by Budowski (1976) has a name, it is sustainable tourism. Mass tourism creates intense environmental pressures due to the fact that such activity involves a large number of tourists in small areas. Moreover, those pressures are accentuated by the temporal polarization of mass tourism (Shaw, G. and Williams, A. 2002). Hudman and Jackson (2003) acknowledge that coastal resorts are a good example of changing pre-existing forms associated with both the human and physical environment. In Spain, for example, several coastal villages have been changed rather dramatically in the past few years. Travel posters of the area usually highlight the area as it was before tourism. Yet, with the growth of mass tourism, the scattered villages of Torremolinos, Benidorm or Lloret del Mar, and other small villages are no longer recognizable. Lloret de Mar, was among the first in Europe to be developed for mass tourism (Telegraf.co.uk, 2001). More recently, the development of transport facilities such as airlines have permitted to those places to attract still m ore tourists. For example, since the arrival of Ryanair, the low cost airline company, at Gerona airport, the town of Lloret de Mar has become far more accessible, especially to those who maintain a strict travel budget. Mass tourism has a range of impacts of all types on natural environment (e.g. coastal, mountains or inland) but also on built environments (e.g. historic sites or cities). Mass tourism leads to the direct degradation, pollution, even destruction of elements (air, soils, geology, vegetation, water and wildlife) and ecosystems (coastal, mountains, inland and polar) (Mieczkowski, Z. 1995). The main causes are the construction of tourist facilities such as hotel complexes, theme parks and marinas and the concentration of tourists in the same place. The simplest way to view such environmental impacts is to consider mass tourism within specific environments. Coastal areas are especially vulnerable to mass tourism because they represent the most desirable places to spend vacation. In some places such as the Mediterranean, there has been widespread destruction of the ecosystems. It is the marine ecosystem which supports and is affected by mass beach tourism, especially concentrated during the high season (from June to August). The summer months have most sun and they include the longest school holiday period when families take their main vacation. The marine e cosystems suffer from garbage disposal by hotels and littering by tourists, oil spills from cruise ships and other motorized boat traffic, etc. (Mieczkowski, Z. 1995). All the construction of tourism facilities required for mass tourism in coastal areas affects the beach in any ways. Infrastructures are required to cope with the large volume of consumers in a short period of time (Shaw, G. and Williams, A. 2002) Why did mass tourism happen Mass tourism appears after the World War II, it was initiated in the back streets of the industrial towns and cities in the north of England. The development of mass tourism in the western world was linked to the economic development of society and as a matter of fact to the incorporation of a more powerful middle and lower class inside the tourist market. This expansion has been based on external factors such as generalisation of paid holidays, rising standards of living and a rapid improvement in the means of transportation such as the increase in air travel. The growth of such tourism represents a democratisation of travel and this democratisation means that status distinctions will be drawn between the different classes of traveller, but less between those that can travel or not. Increase in car ownership Increase in leisure time: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ holiday entitlement à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ shorter working week à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ early retirement with pensions à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ ageing population Greater wealth: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ larger incomes à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ less children à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Two wage-earner families Motorways Jet aircraft Computer reservation systems Internet on-line booking The package tour The package tour, also called package holiday, package travel or all-inclusive package are often standardised and with limited flexibility. The package refers to the purchase of a package of travel services including transport and accommodation. All other types of trips are non-package tours. When buying a package, the tourist feels sure to receive the service promised. Today, the industry tourism has adapted its offer to the customer needs and expectations and proposes tailor-made packages where the customer can combine all the components of his trip. The idea of the package tour is the same but more flexibility is granted Weekend breaks Ecotourism Technology Popularity of the certain place Trend What are the effects? The impact of the mass tourism is quite popular, especially upon the environment. Besides, very limited share of money spent on holidays actually get to the local people, which regional and native cultural attractions we all enjoy. These are the people who actually save the traditions and habits of their local areas. The people, who allow us to catch a glimpse of their cultural heritage, they are who have preserving and taking care of the un-spoiled nature for all of us. Maybe many of the people are used to think that big tour operators and large travel consortiums have a responsibility to preserve that local cultural heritage and environment. But they are only concerned about their profit and nothing else. But if one do not look a bit further in future and see that this way, one day there would not be many remaining tourist resources and gains will start descending fast. Unfortunately, this will affect no one so greatly, but the locals. After all, alternative tourism forms include s mall groups of people, who surely do not harm the environment that much. Besides, if not familiar, as I am sure most of them are, one of the aims of the alternative tourism forms is to acknowledge how to preserve the environment and local traditions and culture. Actually, some alternative forms are meant to enable man to appreciate the greatness of nature, a great such example is the eco-tourism. However, it is totally different situation in some big resorts with thousands of people running around and a lot of hotels keeping the beautiful nature views away from your sight. Of course, there are many ways of entertainment in view of the tourists animation, nightlife, and other. But is it not exactly that what we are running from? Could great nightlife and various animations with the difference they are at different place, compare with the variety of all alternative forms; to compare with the naked nature and cultural heritage? Advantage 1) Jobs are generated by tourism in many areas in the initial construction of the resorts, in travel, in food provision and in other service related industries. 2) Local people benefit directly from employment 4) Transport facilities are developed 5) The local tax base increases so the local government/council can invest in schools, healthcare and social services. DISADANTAGES 1) TNCs (Trans National Corporations) from rich countries are often involved this can result in a lot of profits leaving the country. 2 Jobs can be seasonal especially in beach and skiing based resorts. people can therefore find themselves out of work in the close season. 3) Tourists consume huge amounts of resources including food and water this type of tourism is particularly UNSUSTAINABLE in this manner. 4) Tourists introduce new values and cultures this causes cultural pollution. 5) Land is lost from farming to tourist developments. Example of a place affected by mass tourism For years Bali, the pearl among the Sunda Islands, has been touted as an earthly paradise, thanks to the its tropical landscapes, its white sandy beaches, the tormented beauty of its Hindu temples and its inhabitants reputation for kindness and tolerance. But this idyllic spot may soon be a thing of the past, with the threat of Bali becoming a prey to the accumulated effects of mass tourism, unbridled consumption of resources and environmental collapse. From the 1970s onwards Bali really became a tourist destination. Hundreds of hotels use up a large share of freshwater reserves,with each four-star room consuming 300 litres a day. By 2015 Bali could be facing a drinking water crisis. More than a million visitors came to Bali in 2001. The figures for 2011 suggest that numbers have more than doubled since, ultimately unaffected by the 2002 terror attack, which left 202 dead, including many Australians. Every year 700 hectares of land is lost to hotels, luxury housing for rich foreigners or just roads to improve connections on the island. Every day some 13,000 cubic metres of waste is dumped on public tips and only half is recycled. With 13% more cars on the roads every year, the steadily increasing traffic causes massive jams. In an attempt to mitigate the ill effects of mass tourism on the local Hindu culture , an exception in largely Muslim Indonesia , the authorities have introduced environmental legislation. One of its provisions makes it compulsory for resorts to be set back at least 150 metres from beaches, with no hotels within 5km of Hindu temples. In January 2011, the governor of Bali, Made Mangku Pastika, issued a ban on new buildings in heavily developed areas, warning that Bali was in danger of becoming a sterile land bristling with concrete. The ban is far from popular with investors. Tourism is partly due to the attraction of our culture: if mass tourism develops in a way that threatens the culture, and this will result in the locals losing their specific attraction. Compared with other holiday venues in south-east Asia, Bali has retained much of its magic, at least in the areas so far spared by mass tourism. But if nothing is done to halt current trends, it may suffer the same fate as other dream destinations. 2.2 Perhentian Island Asia-Pacific is one of the worlds fastest growing tourism areas in terms of international arrivals, especially in the South-East Asian sub-region with booming tourism in established destinations such Thailand (14.1 million international arrivals in 2009) and newer, emerging destinations such as Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos (UN WTO, 2010). The focus of this paper, Malaysia, also has a growing international tourism sector with 24.6 million international arrivals in 2010 generating over US $18.2 billion in receipts, and contributing at least seven per cent of GDP (MOTOUR, 2011). 4International arrivals data to Malaysia is disaggregated according to country of origin and not by market segment so it is unknown how many backpackers visit, but one estimate suggests at least 300,000 per year (Ian and Musa, 2005). Within the emerging South-East Asia backpacker trail, the Perhentian islands are one of the hotspot sites in northern peninsula Malaysia. Typically, backpackers enter Malaysia from so uthern Thailand (or travel north from Singapore) and then journey in a circuit between Penang via the Cameron Highlands and then to the east coast specifically to visit the Perhentians. Backpackers often stay on islands or at other beach resorts as mini break from harder travelling within their larger trips around the region. The Island of Perhentian Not less than an hour on a boat from the east coast of Malaysia, Northeast of Peninsular Malaysia, nearby the city of Kota Bharu, there are two small islands that form the Perhentian Islands. The names are Perhentian Besar, the larger of the two and popular among couples and families with children, and Perhentian Kecil, the smaller island and very popular among budget travelers. Both the islands have plenty of accommodation available to stay overnight. This ranges from luxurious resorts that offer cabanas complete with air-conditioning, to simple lodges where you will have to do with cold water and a fan. There are no (internationally renowned) hotels. Perhentian is most popular because the great places for diving and snorkeling; in most cases you can enjoy the underwater world right in front of the resort. It is also very popular because the island is easy to reach; though during the monsoon season (October to March) practically the whole island is closed to tourists. As Perhentian Island is part of a marine park visitors have to pay a conservation fee of RM5. The island is situated about 20 kilometers off the northeastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia. http://divezone.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/perhentian-islands-map.gif http://go2travelmalaysia.com/tour_malaysia/images/perhentian_map.gif The Perhentian Islands are two islands named Pulau Perhentian Kecil (Small Perhentian Island) and Pulau Perhentian Besar (Large Perhentian Island). The Malay name Perhentian is translated as place to stop and this is exactly what these two islands were for traders travelling between Malaysia and Bangkok in years gone by. These islands are still a gorgeous place to stop and rest today. The laid-back atmosphere and the natural beauty of the Perhentian islands immediately transport you to a different world. The white sand is dotted with sun-worshipping holiday makers, some retreating to the shade for a glass of freshly squeezed juice. A group of scuba divers are boarding a boat to venture out into the turquoise waters and submerge themselves in the underwater wonderland. Later, as the sun sets, a quiet buzz of music and chatter fills the air, together with the thin wisp of smoke from the barbeque fire. The islands remain relatively untouched and the only permanent inhabitants live in a small fishing village on Perhentian Kecil. Apart from footpaths that cut through the jungle, there are no roads on the islands. The only way to get around is by walking through the jungle or taking a sea taxi. If you tread carefully, you may even encounter some of the islands shy wildlife on the way, such as monitor lizards, fruit bats, squirrels or even the elusive mouse deer. Simple chalets and some moderately luxurious resorts line the picturesque beaches along with restaurants, dive centers and boat operators advertising their services with hand-painted signs. Perhaps it is the stretches of white beach or the crystal clear water and the superior scuba diving. Perhaps it is the untouched forests or the relaxed atmosphere and unspoiled charm. We like to think that the lush greens and the wildlifes habiting the island makes Perhentian Islands the perfect place to relate ecotourism adventure tourism. Activities In the island Attractions in Perhentian island are all nature based, ranging from snorkeling to scuba diving and jungle treeking. All eager to teach tourist about the ecosystem that surrounds the island. These islands have been gazette as a marine park and as such littering, fishing and collecting of any marine life (whether dead or alive) is strictly prohibited. As it is a marine park, this also means that the rich diversity of aquatic life has been preserved and it is beautiful to experience. Snorkelling Perhentian is famous for its great snorkeling possibilities. A lot of resorts on the island have their own house reef. This means that you can snorkel directly in front or within walking distance of your resort. On the Perhentians there are dozens of diving schools. There, you can rent diving goggles, an air tube and flippers for a small fee (usually around RM15 per day). With this equipment you can snorkel in front of your bungalow. Sadly the fish in front of the resorts often are very spoiled. This means that, as soon as you are in the water you will be surrounded by small (and sometimes also large) fish that expect you to feed them. Also, the coral reefs near the resorts usually are less beautiful, because boats regularly pass by to drop people off at the resort. Some of the popular spots for snorkeling are Shark Point, Teluk Pauh and Tanjung Basi. If you are lucky, a combination of these stops may mean that you see a turtle, some black tip reef sharks and an abundance of colourfu l coral all in one. But the sheer amounts of visitors and careless practices have resulted in damage to the coral and consequently the marine life around the islands rip. Scuba Diving Many tourists visit Perhentian Island to enjoy a couple of great dives. As there is fierce competition between operators diving at the island is relatively cheap, usually ranging between RM60 and RM80 per dive. Diving at Perhentian is especially for beginners as there are almost no currents and visibility is almost always fine. There are better places to dive in Malaysia, but almost none of them are so affordable and easy to reach as on Perhentian. Marine life is in abundance here and apart from the many species of hard and soft coral that form the backbone of these ecosystems you can also expect to encounter turtles, several species of sharks, mackerel, jacks, moray eels, nudibranchs and various other reef fish. This gives a chance for ecotourist to learn about marine life in their natural habitat and to learn how not to spoil their habitat. Jungle Trekking On both the islands there are a number of hiking trails, there are no roads however. The trails are light and usually dont take more than 30 minutes to complete. Perhentian is too small to spot real wildlife, but there are monitor lizards, monkeys, fruit bats and some species of birds on the island. Because walking in the heat is not very pleasant for many, you can take water taxis to return to your resort after the hike. When going to secluded locations, come to an agreement on the pickup for the return trip. Tropical forest covers the greater part of the Perhentian Islands and a few trails that twist through the greenery allow you to explore the diversity of plant life. Tread quietly and you may just meet a few of the islands animals along the way. Monitor lizards are in abundance, as are numerous species of insects and birds. If you are lucky, you may even spot a group of long-tailed macaques (a type of monkey). The elusive mouse deer is also said to inhabit the island, but these tiny animals are rarely seen. Perhentian a conservation island ? In line with the conservation effort Perhentian Island has Marine Parks as Marine Park are ideal places for viewing the rich aquatic life that abound in Malaysias water. There are 5 marine parks and tourist wishing to visit these parks must take note of regulations. A Marine park is an area of the sea zoned as a sanctuary for the coral reef community which is considered as possibly the most productive ecosystem in the world, with its diversity of flora and fauna. Coral reefs are also important breeding and nursery grounds for many commercially important species of marine organisms and fish. Among the objectives of the Marine Park and Marine reserves are: Preservation and protection of coral reef areas from the impact of development. Upgrade and preserve the natural habitat of endangered species of aquatic life. Establishment of zones for preservation of the aquatic flora and fauna and also for the purpose of research and educational activities. Establishment of zones for recreational uses consistent with the carrying capacity of the area. With the establishment of the Marine Park, the benefits are as follows, the ecosystem and habitat of marine life will be protected and maintained, besides that it will also help in rejuvenation of over exploited zones and their maintenance for the protection of endangered species of marine organisms, and establishment of zones for research and educational purposes. Perhentian and mass tourism The growth of tourism changes and modifies the environment. Environment is land, water, air, flora and fauna, but also people and culture and the impacts of tourism are reflected on elements of the natural environment as well as on the man-made environment or built environment (development of environments for tourism as for example holiday resorts). The development of tourism requires the existence of an infrastructure, as well as hotel accommodation and another facilities specific to tourism. In some areas highways and airfields have been constructed to make stimulate tourism but not always has the local population benefited from these developments. Infrastructure and facilities require land and the consequence is that land prices rise in the areas were tourism is developing What are the effects so far? The Perhentian Islands are fast taking the middle ground of the tourism industry. Not big enough for runways and golf courses like its neighbour Redang Island, tourism comes in two main forms backpackers on Pulau Kecil and weekenders on Pulau Besar. There are only a couple of high-priced resorts, while the bulk of the accommodations cater to the mid-range crowd. Only two decades ago, Perhentian was considered a well-kept secret; now the beaches are chock-a-block full of resorts, chalets, dive shops and cafes. Back in 1985 less than ten chalets occupied the coastline of both islands, but a buildin

Interpersonal Relationships In Swamp Angel and Fifth Business Essay

Interpersonal Relationships In Swamp Angel and Fifth Business In the novel Swamp Angel the main character, Maggie, asserts that "swimming is like living , it is done alone". This is, in fact, a very telling statement with respect to the life of both Maggie and the life of Dunstan, the main character in the novel The Fifth Business. Maggie's comparison of life to swimming raises interesting points about the way in which each of the two characters proceed along the road of life. Maggie's statement is actually a simile which compares swimming alone to living life. In most cases a simile is used to take certain characteristics of one entity and to bestow them upon another entity in which they are not usually found. Maggie's comparison of swimming alone to life is no different. It is generally held, in modern society, that life is a journey that is made with the help of others. Intimate interpersonal relationships are viewed as support systems in life. Many people view these relationships as that which makes life worth living. Maggie's statement directly refutes these claims. When one is swimming alone there is no one to rely on for safety and guidance. The owness of survival, in essence not drowning, falls squarely upon the shoulders of the swimmer alone. Maggie's comparison leads one to believe that the same is true for life. In life , as in swimming alone, one should rely only on oneself for survival. Maggie's comparison of life and swimming alone, and all that it implies, can easily be viewed as the personal motto that both Maggie and Dunstan live by. Each character is very strong willed and independent as one would expect. Anyone who lives life alone would have to be both of these. the characters also sha... ...stan to be less of a man and in turn himself to be the greater man. Through analyzing the personal relationships of both Maggie and Dunstan many similarities can be found. Both characters display a pattern of maintaining relationships which lack depth. that is to say that the relationships never reach an emotional level where intimacy is evident. I also becomes evident that both characters pride themselves on independence. Neither character is willing to lean on another person , as this is viewed as weakness. If these characters can be viewed as spokespeople for Ethel Wilson and Robertson Davies it would seem as though both authors would agree with Maggies statement that "swimming is like living, it is done alone". This statement is defiantly applicable to both characters but it seems dangerous to assume that the characters are representative of the authors.

Liberal Education: Why is it important in todays workforce? Essay

Why do college students need courses in the liberal arts? Is it beneficial or just a waste of time? Will it make them or influence them to become better workers once they graduate or will it just go down the drain and be useless? Student loans are increasing every year, and each student just wants to finish their degrees at a lesser price and a quicker pace, so they can start working and pay for those debts. In today’s society where some to most students are very much career – driven, they decide to specialize early on their degrees which means taking all the classes that are required in their respective majors. Students are only required to take minimal courses or subjects in the liberal arts such as humanities, philosophy, communication, etc. Also, students are more keen to focus on what they think or believe can offer high salary base pays professions especially in this current state of our economy. Even though students specialize early in the degree that they have chosen has its advantages, college students would benefit more if they are required to take core classes in the liberal arts to develop not only a well – rounded education but also prepare them for the real world. By taking subjects in the liberal arts along with their field of specialty, students will develop strong critical thinking skills that will be beneficial in problem solving once they have a job. They will also have competent oral and written communication skills that are necessary in any organization, and their creativity and innovation will be enhanced. Now, let us define liberal arts or liberal education. According to Michael Lind, liberal arts should be understood in its original sense as â€Å"elite skills† (54). We all know that liberal arts include cour... ...ergraduates Specialize?† The Chronicle of Higher Education. 2006. Rpt. in Current Issues and Enduring Questions. Sylvan Barnet and Hugo Bedau. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2011. 555-557. Print. Jones, Roberts T. "Liberal Education For The Twenty-First Century." Liberal Education 91.2 (2005): 32. MasterFILE Complete. Web. 24 May 2012. Lemann, Nicholas. "Liberal Education & Professionals." Liberal Education 90.2 (2004): 12. MasterFILE Complete. Web. 24 May 2012. Lind, Michael. "The Global Race for Knowledge: Why the Liberal Arts Still Matter." Wilson Quarterly Vol. XXX, No. 4. Autumn 2006: 52-58. SIRS Issues Researcher. Web. 24 May 2012. Menand, Louis. â€Å"Re-imagining Liberal Education.† Education and Democracy. 1997. Rpt. in Current Issues and Enduring Questions. Sylvan Barnet and Hugo Bedau. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s , 2011. 571-574. Print.

Randy Pausch’s Last lecture presentation

1. Randy Pausch’s Last lecture presentation is about achieving your childhood dreams, enabling the dreams of others, and how you can achieve your dreams or enable the dreams of others. Mr. Pausch had several childhood dreams these included: being in zero gravity, playing in the NFL, Authoring an article in the World Book Encyclopedia, being Captain Kirk, winning stuffed animals, and being a Disney Imagineer. He achieved his first dream of being in zero gravity when he was a professor and his students were taking part of a space ship demonstration.He did not achieve his dream of being a NFL player; however as a kid he was enrolled in football. He states that football taught him so many things, such as hard work, the fundamentals, and experience. He learned that when you’re screwing up and no one bothers to say anything to you that means that they stopped caring. He received an opportunity to write an article for the encyclopedia on virtual reality. He also won lots of bi g stuff animals for his family. Randy Pausch had done so well for himself in the virtual reality world that Captain Kirk came to meet him, and lastly he was able to work as a Disney Imagineer.Lastly, he ends his lecture with some important advice. He states to be good at something; it makes you valuable. He states to work hard, find the best in everybody; no matter how you have to wait for them to show it, and be prepared† â€Å"luck† is where preparation meets opportunity. I agree with his advice, one should not stop dreaming and striving for excellence. One should have fun, take chances and never give up. I feel that Mr. Pausch wanted to leave his family with one last positive legacy. 2. My childhood dreams were to be in NASA and go to space, have a family, to be wealthy and have my own island.I believe it is important to achieve your dreams; it keeps one striving for a goal and distracts one from seeing the negatives in his or her life. A dream defines you. 3. What I ’ve learned from my experiences with failure is that when one has a will there is a way. It gave me the opportunity to learn that I have people that will be there for me and help me understand that I’m not alone and that they will be with me through every step of the learning experience.4. The important life lessons I have learned so far are: that this is my ife and it’s up to me how I choose to live it, I have the right to choose my own destiny, I have also learned that family is more important than money, I have learned that nothing can buy you more happiness than a child and marrying the perfect woman, and always look on the bright side. 5. My last lecture would be about how to live life to the fullest. The five points I would communicate to others are: 1. Love and accept everyone including yourself 2. Laugh and be happy 3. Make a bucket list 4. Don’t hang onto the past 5. Don’t give up

Gender Differences in the Use of Technology Essay

At the center of twenty-first century socialization is figurer engineering apprehension which presence and practise just decades ago, were control for the government and some institutions. Today, electronic calculator engineering steps out from such isolation pervading all institutions, industries, commerce and other aras of feel at what appears to be logarithmic speed, making its mastery or at least(prenominal) working knowledge an essential requisite if one is to keep pace with time.The omnipresentness of technology, continuous rise in the demands for technologically-advanced workforce combined with the application of basic economical principles make one think whether the practise up on sexual practice contrarietys as it relates to technology is really a matter honorable of anyones at xtion. Statistics say it is. Generally, in a technological workplace, women be still underrepresented solely five percent sequence of estimator programmers, ten percent of system analysts and ten percent of electronic technicians argon fe anthropoids (Statistics Women in engineering science, 2008).In major companies in Silicon Valley, hardly 5-6% is led by females (Statistics Women in technology, 2008). there has been a decline in the physique of females pursuing flights related to science and technology. harmonize to the National Center for Education Statistics, the publication of women who earned a bachelors degree in computer science has decreased from 37% to 28. 4% from 1984 to 1995 (Statistics Women in engine room, 2008). Female students who took the advanced placement computer interrogatoryination comprised and when 17% (Statistics Women in Technology, 2008).From these statistics, one may speculate that females forthcoming career choices still fall along traditional paths. This was confirmed by a get done by Lupart and hit (2002) on students acquaintances on desirable career characteristics and career choices. With the rising de mand for sophisticated jobs (Statistics Women and Technology, 2008), knowledge and routine of technology give out an essential condition to improve womens participation in the workforce and to modify them to pursue higher status and better-paying jobs in the future.However, the general belief is that not only are women underrepresented in the technology-related industry they are to a fault considered to be little(prenominal) interested, less confident and less learninged in this area. These three factors tint their exercise of technology. Still, underneath these factors, womens computer usage stop be traced on socialization and upbringing. Boys and girls do not break away the same games during childhood. period boys are usually made to play video games or games that promote problem-solving, hands-on skills and spatial-relationship skills, girls play with dolls, which tend to expatiate their lever of relationships (Milgram, 2007).Problem-solving, hands-on and spatial-rel ationship skills are critical to the study of computer and technology-related subjects. As a forget of this discrepancy in development, males arrest more(prenominal) than than interested in technology and become better-equipped with the needful skills as they reach maturity (Milgram, 2007). The males generally higher interest in technology, however, does not affect the possibility of change females perception and stead towards technology. The imprint of ubiquitous computing on gender differences was examined in a study done in 2006.Here, the participants were given access 24-hour access to a laptop computer. sexual practice differences were detect in behavioural attitude towards future habituate of computers foregoing the laptop program. Prior to the laptop program, males were more inclined to phthisis computers. This changed by and by the laptop program. No portentous difference was observed in the attitude towards the use of computers by and by the program ( Kay, 2006). Before the program, males were observed to be more skillful in computer abilities compared to females.No signifi reart difference was observed in computer abilities between males and females afterwards the program, except for the skill in schedule (Kay, 2006). In central Georgia oculus school, the study on 8th category students showed a statistically significant difference between achievements of males and females. In this experiment, the participants were instructed and given an exam both written and applied on twain facultys, information and broadcasting. A great amelioration was seen in females for the information module while the males showed greater amelioration in the broadcasting module.This study partially debunks earlier findings that males generally show higher achievements compared to males, in the study of computer technology (Hale, 2005). These studies apprize that females do not reserve an inherently unfavorable computer skill, interest, and attit ude which affect computer use. Provided with the rectify tools and knowledge, females may do as swell or change surface better than males (Milgram, 2007). The comparatively lower use of technology by females can be attributed to the differences in perceptions on technology between genders.While the females see technology finished its social function, the males perspective is more cogitate on the hardware itself (Brunner, 1997). Males, therefore, are more believably to study more on the intricacies and technicalities of the use of technology compared to females which in effect allows them to maximize its use. Meanwhile, the females perspective of technology limits their use to only a number of functions.. harmonize to Milgram (2007), females are much less likely to retain interest if they feel they are incapable of mastering the material. Also, males tend to inflate their accomplishments while females tend to feel less comfortable even when they do well in tests (Milgram, 2007 ). The females initial lack of skill in technology affects their effrontery and perception towards its use. However, like interest and attitude, these may be changed upon exposure. Nicolino, et. al. (2006) measured the effrontery gain of male and female respondents in the frequency of use of computers at home and at work. No significant difference in computer use was observed between males and females. hearty differences were observed in the only in the applications used by the two genders. The possible change in perceptions and self-assurance which may affect usage is evidenced by the study by Wong and Hanafi in 2007. In this study, the attitudes of male and female student teachers in Malaysia towards exposure and use of Information Technology were measured in terms of usefulness, confidence and aversion. No significant differences were seen between the two genders were observed during the pre- and post IT course. Both genders showed improvement in their appreciation of IT usag e after the IT course.Females exhibited greater confidence in IT usage after the course compared to their male counterparts (Wong and Hanafi, 2007). given the males higher degree of confidence towards technology, the misgiving now is whether such confidence really translates to increased use of technology. In a study on some 6,800 quarter and eighth grade students, it was reported that males importantly increase their use of technology with age while no such significant increase was seen in females (Barker and Aspray, 2006). It has been established that the males have a more positive attitude and higher degree of confidence towards technology.These, however, are not solely gender-based but more importantly, based on their differences in upbringing, with males having more background in problem-solving and spatial-relationship. Based on the general principles derived from studies on gender-gap in technology, strategies can be employed to address such gap, improve computer attitude, increase computer use and create a culture where everyone can participate and take wages of the benefits of technology, regardless of gender. Milgram (2007) lists some of such strategies targeting the gist school where attitudes in computer use start to emerge.These strategies include the domain of same-sex groups in classrooms, the integrated and meaningful use of technology, the improvement of teachers computer skills, the use of gender soggy softwares, simulation games for all genders, and the discouragement of use technology and computers as a reward. special K among these strategies is their focus on building the confidence of females who often have less set out than males. Simulation games, for example, ensure that not only males are given the opportunity to develop problem-solving and spatial relationship skills.Simulation games also promote hands-on proficiency which is necessary in developing technological skills and use. The creation of same-sex groups in classroom s and the discouragement of using technology and computers as reward minimize the males aggressive, emphatic and self-assured behavior which stem from their confidence in their skills. In sum, it is by simulating the environment that contributed to the development of males skills that the gender gap in the use of technology can be significantly reduced.The fact that females respond to technology more positively if given the right building blocks, as shown by former studies support this.Works Cited Barker LJ and Aspray W. (2006). The reconcile of research on girls and IT. In J. M. Cohoon and W Aspray (eds. ), Women and information technology (pp. 3-54). Cambridge, MA MIT Press. Brunner C. (1997). Technology and gender Differences in masculine and maidenlike views. NASSP Bulletin, 81(592), 46-51. Hale, KV. (2005). Gender differences in computer technology achievement. Meridian, 8(1). Kay R. (2006).Addressing gender differences in computer ability, attitudes and use The laptop eff ect. Journal of Educational figuring Research, 34(2), 187-211. Lupart J and Cannon E. Computers and career choices gender differences in grades 7 and 10 students. Gender, Technology and Development, 6(2), 233-248. Milgram D. (2007). Gender differences in learning sort specific to science, technology, engineering and math. SelfGrowth. com. Retrieved 27 April 2008 from http//www. selfgrowth. com/articles/Gender_Differences_in_Learning_Style_Specific_to_Science_Technology_Engineering_and_Math_STEM.html. Nicolino, P. , Fitzgerald, B. , Maser, K. & Morote, E. (2006). Gender Differences in Confidence about using Technology An Introductory Course. In C. Crawford et al. (Eds. ), legal proceeding of Society for Information Technology and instructor Education International Conference 2006 (pp. 3544-3549). Chesapeake, VA AACE. Statistics Women in Technology. (2008). DeVry University Website. Retrieved 27 April 2008 from http//www. phx. devry. edu/outreach/her_world_stats. asp. Wong, S. L. , & Hanafi, A. (2007). Gender Differences in Attitudes towards