Social Loafing free essay sample

Working in groups is essential in the business world and in general many of the tasks that humans face cannot be accomplished alone. Although group projects are essential, they can harbor difficulties in communication, time management, coordination and other aspects. One phenomenon that can occur while working in groups is called social loafing. It is the conscious or unconscious decrease in exerted effort in group settings due to the decrease in social awareness. These individuals may exert much more effort when working by themselves but when in a group setting they feel less of a need to do so. Social loafing is a complex physiological subject that is very prevalent in group settings. Social loafing is caused by task interdependence, task visibility, and group size. Although it can be detrimental to the group, there are different tactics to help prevent and cure social loafing. Social loafing is the tendency to reduce individual effort when working in groups compared to the individual effort used when working alone. We will write a custom essay sample on Social Loafing or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page It is similar to ‘free riding’, a concept in which an individual does not bear a proportional amounts of work but shares all of the benefits of the group. Many studies conclude that individuals frequently exert less effort on collective tasks. An early example done in 1913 by a German researcher tested the size of a team verses the effort expended. He had teams do a rope pulling experiment and noted that was the number of group members increased, there was a decrease in overall performance. Social loafing is caused by a few different psychological tendencies. The first is called task interdependence. This is the degree of task-driven interaction among group members. If individuals perceive their tasks as more interdependent, they may find it difficult to feel a sense of personal achievement in their work. They may withhold their effort when conditions do now allow them to exhibit their accomplishments. With high task interdependence, individuals may feel that their efforts are indistinguishable from their coworkers. The second tendency is called task visibility. It is an individual belief that a supervisor is aware of their efforts. When tacks are not highly visible by others, they may not want to exert a high level of effort because there is no punishment from exerting low effort. Lastly, the size of the group can have an effect on social loafing. As a group size increases in size, individuals feel more anonymous and therefore contribute less consciously or unconsciously. It may also be more difficult to assess each group member’s contribution to projects when there are lots of members. The issue of social loafing is easily remedied if a few precautions are taken for group projects. It is important to articulate a role to each individual in the group and how that role plays a part in the completion of the group goal. Within each of the roles given to members, they should have specific, short-term, deliverable and measurable goals that can be tied directly to that individual. Evaluate each person based on these individual goals and reward those that meet and surpass their goals. Lastly, keeping the groups at a reasonable size for the task can prevent social loafing. If everyone in the group has a task, they will be less likely to cause social loafing. In conclusion, Bibliography http://www. radford. edu/~jaspelme/_private/gradsoc_articles/social%20loafing/Individual%20differences2. pdf http://comm. colorado. edu/~kuhnt/1600/liden. pdf http://www. joshuakennon. com/mental-model-social-loafing/

Platos Allegory of the Cave in Pleasantville Essay Example

Platos Allegory of the Cave in Pleasantville Essay Example Platos Allegory of the Cave in Pleasantville Paper Platos Allegory of the Cave in Pleasantville Paper Writer and director Gary Ross captured the essence of Plato’s philosophical views in his movie, Pleasantville. The movie is about two siblings, David and Jennifer, who live in completely different high school social scenes. Jennifer is the wild, extroverted teen who is obsessed with partying and boy drama. David, on the other hand, is a social outcast and spends most of his time watching TV, specifically, his favorite show, Pleasantville. David idolizes the show because of the perfect town in which everyone is accepted and there is never anything that goes wrong. When the siblings’ mother goes away, the two are left arguing over what TV channel to watch. As their fighting develops, they eventually break the remote, which leads to the plot twist when the two are transported into the town of Pleasantville. This movie directly relates to Plato’s philosophical beliefs, specifically his conclusions about the Allegory of the Cave. However, the movie can also be loosely related to Plato’s noumenal and phenomenal realms in the sense that it is hard to tell the difference between the intelligible and sensible realms. Plato’s beliefs are interpreted and modernized in the movie, which demonstrate the four truths that Plato realizes in his Allegory of the Cave conclusions. Pleasantville helps the audience understand the conclusions Plato draws from the Allegory of the Cave. Plato’s first conclusion explains why gathering knowledge and education can be difficult. The movie is a parallel because David and Jennifer’s cave is the life they lead as high school students. They are brought to the light when they are transported to Pleasantville. There, they must adapt to a different lifestyle and confront the truths about themselves that they ignored in the superficial world they once inhabited. When they are brought to Pleasantville, they also act as a philosopher who is bringing knowledge to the small town. For the people that live in Pleasantville, they are stuck in a cave and David and Jennifer are their keys to the light. The movie contrasts parallel universe’s, showing that perspective is what makes someone stuck in a cave. Because the people of Pleasantville and David and Jen learn new things about themselves, they all escaped the cave and gathered knowledge. The road to enlightenment was not an easy road, however. David and Jennifer had a difficult time maturing and leaving behind their old masks; the town of Pleasantville had a very difficult time gaining a new perspective- the town leaders tried everything they could to forbid people from leaving their perfect little world. This parallel of the cave explains Plato’s first conclusion of how education can often be difficult because it means turning your back on everything familiar. The movie also very clearly identifies with Plato’s second conclusion that explains why philosophers are often ridiculed. When Jennifer and David were transported to Pleasantville, they were immediately hated for disrupting the order in the town. They had to learn how to cope with a completely different world, while also instilling in others their new perspective and experience. While Pleasantville is black and white, the town represents the ignorance that people in the cave feel. However, when the town begins to turn to color, the people are finally seeing the light and escaping from the cave. This I somewhat ironic because, for both the people of Pleasantville and David and Jen, they all begin their journey in black and white. This is interesting because, from Jen and David’s perspective, the two had already experienced the world and were sent to Pleasantville to not disrupt anything. They, however, were very mistaken. They were just as ignorant as the people of Pleasantville, just in a different way. Jen’s radical actions of having sex when she goes on a date in Pleasantville do not make her turn to color because her actions are what would be expected from her back in her own cave. She only turns to color when she gets in touch with her emotions and relieves some insecurities that had hindered her from being her full self. The people that first turn to color are ridiculed by town leaders and people that had not yet left the cave. This explains why philosophers are often ridiculed; the people that were in color, representing philosophers, had divorced mundane concerns and found their true inner spirit. Plato’s final two conclusions describe the nature of education and the role of the philosopher, which are also dramatized in the movie. Plato tells that the role of an educator is to point their students in the right direction. In Pleasantville, the people are both students and teachers. They are teachers to Jen and David; the townspeople teach Jen and David the importance of tradition and good values. The townspeople are also students: they learn from Jen and David how to ignite their inner flame and break from the cave that Pleasantville once was. Similarily, Jen and David are also both students and teachers. They are students in that they take the lessons from the people of Pleasantville in order to help them reach the sun and gather knowledge about a world they were unfamiliar with. They are teachers in that they help orient the people of Pleasantville to get in touch with their daring and adventurous side. In this way, being a teacher is the role of the philosopher- the teacher must help others escape from the cave to experience life. Everyone that turned to color towards the beginning of the movie were the â€Å"philosophers† or â€Å"teachers† that helped instigate everyone else to turn to color. They helped share their knowledge and encouraged people to reach the sun and gather all new kinds of knowledge. Plato’s final two conclusions explain the nature of the philosopher in educating others and how the student has all the information inside them, they just need to tap into their inner mind to retrieve it. Plato’s Allegory of the Cave and Gary Ross’s Pleasantville each were very insightful in helping understand the other. By studying the allegory, it was very easy to understand the themes and symbols present in Pleasantville. Conversely, by watching Pleasantville, it was very easy to understand and modernize the conclusions Plato draws in his allegory. Through comprehending both, it is easier to understand Plato’s four truths: why knowledge can be difficult; why philosophers are ridiculed; the nature of education; and the role of the philosopher.

Analysis of Consumer Decision Making Process

Consumer decision making process is a list of steps that are carried out by consumers concerning to a potential market transaction, before, during and after the purchase of a product or service. The process includes identifying the problem, collecting information, evaluating the alternatives, making the purchase decision and evaluating post purchase. Generally, decision making is the cognitive process of selecting a course of action from among multiple options. As a consumer, I find that the consumer decision making process is a great help in choosing for the right roduct which gives a consumer the greatest satisfaction. One of the latest scenarios where I applied this process into my product purchases was buying a beautiful, yet not too costly wedding gown, as I am getting married in the coming month. I went through five stages of the consumer decision making process in buying the perfect wedding gown as follows:- Problem recognition Information search Evaluation of alternatives Purchase / Decision making Post-purchase evaluation Problem recognition is the stage where the consumer is aware of a need or want. It occurs when the consumer realize a significant difference between his or her ctual state and desire state. My problem in this situation at this stage, is having to own a new wedding gown, because I am walking down the isle with my fianc © next month. This desire of something new leads to the triggering of the decision process. In addition to my problem, I do not have a very well-funded family, so I cannot afford expensive, luxurious designers wedding gown. Information search When a consumer discovers a problem or a need, he or she is likely to search for more information on how to solve it. The information search stage involves gathering nformation from various sources in order to make a better-informed decision, it helps clarifies the options open to the consumer which may involve internal search and external search. Internal search is not required in my situation, because I do not have any past experiences or feelings with wedding gown to recall to, as it is going to be my first time buying it. Since I have no prior experience with this high-involvement product, Ill have to use external search, that is, to engage in extensive search of the outside environment for helpful information on which to support a choice. IVe obtained information from various sources. First of all, I became more attentive towards commercial sources, such as, bridal gowns advertisements on the Moreover, I went to different bridal retailers to get help from the sales consultants and also to browse through the gowns myself. I even sought some information through internet source to see what the basic idea is I need to know about wedding gowns. Last but not least, I gained more information and opinions from my friends and family that are married, through word of mouth. Through gathering information, I learnt more about the brands that compete in the market and their features and characteristics. Evaluation of alternatives With the information search from the previous stage, it helps clarifies the problem for the consumer by suggesting criteria to use for the purchase, yielding brand names that might meet those criteria and developing the consumer value perception At this stage, I have narrowed down the options available to me and I have to compare the ones that caught my attention based on the criteria that matters most. After browsing through so many types of brands of wedding gowns, there are two main ones that really meet up to my requirements or expectations, that is Vera Wangs wedding dresses collection and Mori Lees. However, I cannot possibly purchase both of the gowns, because I only need one. Therefore, I have listed down and established the criteria of these wedding gowns for evaluation, so that I can make the right choice. The table below shows the designs of both wedding gowns:- Brands I Vera Wang I Mori Lee I Color Since I have a fair skin tone, a lighter delicate hue of dress should suit me very well. I Ivory I White pastel I Fabric- I prefer much lighter and softer fabrics, as Im getting married during a hot season. I SilkThis light and floaty material is nown for its lustrous shine, which gives a lightweight look and feel. I Chiffon and Cr ©pe These two materials were used to produce the tulle gown in delicate sheets. It gives a soft flowing with a crinkled floral texture. I Length-full-length gowns are more suitable for my formal wedding. I Full-length I Full-length I Silhouette- This refers to the shape of the gown and how it hugs your body. I Mermaid shapelt is form fitting and slim, but the skirt flares out below the knee to show the perfect hourglass shape. I Full ball gownThis is the most traditional wedding dress silhouette. The bodice is fitted through the waist with full puffy skirt. I Train- The gown comes with a long train for people to carry when I walk. I It is detachable, so that it will not be stepped on or torn during the reception. I It is detachable, so that it will not be stepped on or torn during the reception. I Mood- Dresses are also categorized by moods. I RomanticThe dress is strapless and is usually complemented with a long train. I Traditional and romanticlt is described as a full gown with fluffy bottom and bares a heart-shaped neckline. I Pricing- The price of the dress. I Approximately RM13, 000 | Approximately RM9,OOO I Purchase / Decision Making After giving the criteria of both wedding gowns a thorough evaluation, I have come to a decision on which dress to purchase. I chose the second option, which is the Mori Lees full wedding ball gown, because the design, texture and color really meet up to my requirements. As I have mentioned before, I am not very well-funded, thus I cannot afford to pay requires me to pay only 20% of the original price. Vera Wangs do not provide rental services, thus this adds extra points up on why I prefer Mori Lees gown. To implement my purchasing decision, I have decided to rent the gown from Milan ridal studio, Penang. There are many sizes available there, where I can try them and loan from there easily. Furthermore, I do not need to own the wedding gown myself, because I wont be wearing it again after my wedding day, so renting the gown is the best option. I have paid for the loan fee using credit card two weeks before my wedding day, so I can get myself prepared with the wedding themes and set ups beforehand. Post-purchase evaluation Last but not least, we have come to the final stage, which is the post-purchase evaluation of the decision. It is very common for consumers to experience concerns fter making a product purchase. After buying a product, the consumer compares it with expectations and is either satisfied or dissatisfied. What I experienced after using the product was the performance of this product exceeds my expectations, causing what is known as positive disconfirmation. After wearing Mori Lees wedding ball gown on my special day, I felt completely satisfied and contented with the gown I chose. That wedding gown suited me perfectly well on that day; the floral texture on the skirt matches the wedding theme flawlessly and I felt really comfortable wearing it. The fabric of the gown did not cause me to feel hot or itchy at all, unlike some other gowns I have tried. Furthermore, I was really happy with the decision I made, that is to only rent the dress. It helped me saved a lot from my budget and I still get to flaunt that piece of beautiful gown during my wedding day at the same time. Conclusion In short, I find that the consumer decision making process is really helpful when it comes to choosing the right product to purchase. I think this process is more suitable to be used in high-involvement purchases, which include those involving high xpenditure or personal risk for example buying a house, a car or making investments, because the stages of the process really guides you to choose the best option, without having to feel guilty or regret after buying it. I will strongly recommend people whom I know to use this process when they are purchasing something important, because it lessens the risk of buying and increases post-purchase satisfaction to a consumer after going through the stages and choosing the right alternative.

Streetcar marketing communication and Marketing mix Case Study

Streetcar marketing communication and Marketing mix - Case Study Example The strategy used by the streetcar company is very exceptional as it also works in a way to preserve the environment. The advocates for a greener environment have affirmed that indeed there is no need to have many cars on the road and having a business that offers car sharing and car rental services is very effective way of ensuring that the emissions are reduced. The elements that are involved in the marketing of any company are not conclusive since there are a variety of them. Insight to the buyer behaviour and their decision making process is entrenched in the core marketing concepts. Currently, marketers have been able to develop theories and prove them scientifically to explain the stable rules that apply to the marketing sectors and business communication. The major concern is addressing the observable features that are similar among all or most consumers and try to understand them vividly. It is very difficult for one to ascertain that marketing has a theory and that it is justifiable on the basis that it is logic and consistent. In the modern market regimen, the core concepts include the market strategy, eCommunication and eCommerce. Different methods of communication are involved by different companies to market themselves as this is the first process that will initiate the eagerness in customers to buy. When customers become aware of a certain product, it evokes a curiosity. Streetcar has established good strategy that incorporates eCommerce and eCommunication. These concepts are important in marketing because the strategy for marketing will enable a company to come up with a better marketing plan which is cost effective and successful. The understanding of human behaviour can enable streetcar to meet their marketing objectives which can be evaluated by certain aspects that are practical and measurable for instance the amount of sales, the profits, the market share and the ROI- return of investment. Objectives and Strategies The main objective of implementing communication strategies in a business is to increase the sales of the business and as a result increase its profits. The success of the marketing strategy will depend on the appropriate coordination and implementation of all the elements of a marketing mix which include pricing, promotions, place and the product. Business success is achieved by the realization of the business objective. The communication style in marketing is to give answers to the following questions about customers; who How When Where And why do they buy The streetcar company has integrated all the answers to the above questions and has established a strong customer base in the UK (Pelsmacker et al 2007). Evaluation of the market, control systems and use of direct communication allows interactive exchange of information and effective marketing of the products offered (Fill 2006). Streetcar is one of the biggest car sharing and car rental clubs in the United Kingdom and it was est ablished in 2004. The customers are mainly the people who do not have personal cars and those who don't use their cars regularly. Currently, the clubs has over 40,000 members all over the country and it is operating in seven cities with seven

Benefits of Biomedical Research Using Animals Essay

Benefits of Biomedical Research Using Animals - Essay Example Breast cancer is the most common in American women (American Cancer Society). On the other hand, I went through the signs and symptoms to understand what my aunt was experiencing. The website listed symptoms like swelling in parts of the breast, irritation of the skin, pain in the breast or nipple, and sometimes discharge from the nipple (American Cancer Society). Moreover, I also learned of how cells of cancer grow in an uncontrollable manner and pose the risk of spreading to other parts of the body in what is known as metastasis. After a visit to the oncologist, my aunt level of cancer was said to be a stage that could not be controlled through surgical means. Therefore, the only option viable at the time was the use of chemotherapy. Chemotherapy helps in reducing the growth of cancer cells in the body (American Cancer Society). My aunt was placed on a combination of chemotherapy tamoxifen and Herceptin. However, chemotherapy has been associated with the side effects in human thanks to the recent development that has enabled development of drugs that mitigates side effects. One of such drugs that my aunt had to rely on was Herceptin. The drug acts by focusing on specific genetic alteration and hence has enabled in the reduction of side effects such as hair loss and nausea that is typical in another form of therapies (UCLA). The efficacies of these drugs that have been helpful to my aunt have been proved through animal research. The development of these drugs has been possible through intensive research that has been done on animals (rats) (Animal Research Info). It is the identification of estrogen receptor (ER) in the laboratory that has made it possible to describe the target site specificity of estrogen action in breast cancer (Jensen and Jordan 1). In the 1970s, there was consideration of the use of ER as a target for therapeutics.

Classical vs. Keynsian Economics Essay Example for Free

Classical vs. Keynsian Economics Essay There are several significant factors that differentiate Classical from Keynesian economics. Classical economics stays true to the laissez-faire concept of no government mediation in businesses with the assumption that the economy will work itself out. Keynesian economics, on the other hand, revolves around deficit spending and the belief that essentially â€Å"in the long run, we’re all going to die†. Both schools of economics take a different stance on the behavior of consumers, fiscal policy, and government spending. Classical economists, in essence, monitor what is currently transpiring in the economy. They believe that the economy is stable and self-sustaining because in the long run, the market supposedly automatically adjusts to â€Å"booms† and â€Å"busts†. This principle is heavily influenced by the epoch of industrialization – during and after. In a Classical economic model, economists consent individuals’ actions and desires, thus allowing prices to fluctuate based on that individuals’ needs. Say’s Law explicates this phenomenon by saying that supply creates its own demand and in result, the economy is stimulated when more goods are produced. Furthermore, Classicalists do not act with fiscal policies and strongly believe the notion that government spending impedes a nation’s economic growth Keynesian economists believe that the government is imperfect and is not able to sustain itself so government intervention is not only beneficial, but also crucial to mediate the economy. Their stance on fiscal policy is to either contract or expand the economy with specific tools depending on the gap in the economy. In a Keynesian economic model, economists rely on government spending to jumpstart an economy if it was dragged down into a depression. When there is a lack of growth, the government should stimulate demand. Personally, I would agree with Classical economics, but with all the assumptions present it is nearly impossible to side with them. Most of the assumptions are not true and are essential to accurately find a solution to economic problems. For instance, President Ronald Reagan was big on the  theory of hands-off business, yet he plundered the nation into the most drastic deficit; more than all of his predecessors combined. Not having government intervention is nearly impossible since there is always a need to mediate the economy. I would side more with Keynesian economics since there is almost always a practical solution to a problem. In other words, it is like an algorithm: you need so much to get the desired output. For instance, in the Great Depression of 2008, the government efficiently used expansionary fiscal policy to boost the economy. Government spending was vastly increased, as well as taxes. Our economy was gradually remedied by the policies that were enacted upon, thus my reason for siding with Keynesian economics.

Macroeconomic Case Studies :: essays papers

Macroeconomic Case Studies The article titled ‘Fed Unlikely to Alter Course’ by John M. Berry of the Washington Post takes an interesting look at actions that Alan Greenspan his colleges of the Federal Reserve have been taking over the last 9 months to slow the economic growth of United States. The astonishing growth rate of 7.3% is fueled by an economy that is in the midst of a â€Å"high tech revolution†. The article also explores the contrasting view of other economists that say that the Fed has increased interest rates too much in its attempts to slow the economy. The means by which Alan Greenspan and the Federal Reserve have chose to slow the economy is through a monetary policy, or more specifically, an increase in the national interest rate. The article states that the Fed officials have come to a â€Å"broad agreement that they will keep raising the rates until growth slows to a more sustainable pace to make sure inflation stays under control.† Because of the booming economy and the investment in the stock market the exchange of money has increased for goods and services, which in turn increases the price level or the quantity of money demanded. By increasing the interest rates the Fed commits itself to adjusting the supply of money in the United States to meet that rate at a point of equilibrium. If the interest rate is increased, less goods and services are demanded, and therefore will slow down the economy and reduce the rate of inflation. The article points out that as â€Å"stock prices have risen over the last couple of ye ars, so have American household wealth and consumer spending.† This is precisely the cycle that Fed officials want to interrupt to slow growth before it fuels more inflation. At the time this article was written the stock market prices had fallen sharply especially in the technology sector. But the Fed continued on the path to raise interest rates further noting that the index that they closely follow and contains a broader rage of public traded US stocks, the Wilshire 5000, is up for the year. Even though they began raising rates gradually 9 months ago, it takes almost a year for the economy to feel the full effects. In this case the results of the interest rates increased could be felt as last as the second half of 2000.

Case Study Report: Odi

Case Study Report: Optical Distortion, Inc. (A) For the three types of chicken farms, the appealing and unappealing characteristics of using ODI contact lens are presented as below. When it comes to appealing characteristics, the three types of chicken farms are the same: less cannibalism, less feed cost, and less the temporary weight loss and the retardation of egg production. From the perspective of cannibalism, which is originally 25% showed in experience, flock mortality is reduced to an average of 4. 5% when ODI lens are used .On the contrary, the debeaking makes the mortality for cannibalism from 25% to only 9% , which is higher than contact lenses used. In other words, farmers can save more 4. 5% (9% minus 4. 5%) chickens in their farm. On the other words, farmers can save $2. 40(price of per hen)*4. 5%*the number of chickens in the farm. From the perspective of less feed cost, the debeaking chicken only can eat the feed in the trough at least 3/8† deep, while the ODI le ns used chicken only can eat the feed in the trough below 3/8†deep.At $158 per ton for chicken feed, this would represent considerable annual savings, especially for large farms. From the perspective of less the temporary weight loss and the retardation of egg production, because the fewer cannibalism and the trauma resulting, farmer can get more eggs. When it comes to unappealing characteristics, the details are as below. Farm Types| Unappealing Characteristics|Small Farms| Labor cost| Lens cost| The number of birds are too small to use the new technology| Medium Farms| Yearly cash flow is only $375,000| The melting point of the hydrophilic polymer is very close to the sterilization temperature| Not reused and the lens cost| Large Farms| Not reused| Lens cost| The melting point of the hydrophilic polymer is very close to the sterilization temperature| As regards geographic areas, ODI should focus its efforts on California. Given the density of large farms n California (flock size of 50,000 or greater), it seems prudent not only to perform the initial product introduction there but to focus the entire first year of business in this single West Coast state. The first year’s planned production volume is approximately 20 million, essentially the same as California’s chicken population. Success in this region could later force farms in other states to implement the lens simply as a means of staying competitive. As regards target segment, it would seem that the focus should be initially on farms with a flock size of 50,000 and over, which means the large farms.Since this would limit the overhead (fixed costs) needed to service these accounts (fewer sales and technical experts required). Also, by focusing on large farms, the sales team could interface with the farms directly, and there would be no need for a â€Å"middle man† to be involved in product distribution. Avoiding this intermediary would help keep costs down. For ODI, pricing con siderations for a pair of lenses are as below. Item| Fixed Cost| Advertising in Trade Publications| $100,000| Headquarters Expenses| $184,000(for volume of 20 million pair)| Regional Office and Warehouse| $196,000|Costs of Molds| $12,000 x 3 = $36,000 (3 molds are needed to produce 21,600,000 pair annually)| Licensing Agreement with New World Plastics| $25,000 (per year, must be paid for first and second year of production)| Item| Variable Cost| per pair of lenses| $0. 032| ODI Cost(per year): TC=FC+MC TOTAL COST=[($100,000 + $184,000 + $196,000 + $36,000 + $25,000)/(50% of 475600000)]+0. 032=$0. 055 (5. 5 cent) per pair Farmers Saving when using ODI lens(per year): Item| Saving| Less Mortality| $2. 40*(9%-4. 5%)=0. 108| Less retardation of egg production| 0. 3/12=0. 044| Less feed cost| (0. 2446-0. 2368)*3/8*($158/2000)*365=0. 084| TOTAL SAVING=$0. 108+$0. 044+$0. 084=$0. 236(23. 6cent) The minimum price that ODI considered is 8 cent per pair, so the price stage is from 8 cent to 2 3. 6 cent, and the ODI should adopt the price policy on entry which is set the price near 23. 6 cent per pair. For the realistic goal for ODI by 1978 is the 50 percent penetration of such farms, when means ODI wants to reach the 50 percent of 470. 8 million pairs, that is, 235. 4 million pairs of lens be sold and used in the farms. Case Study Report: Odi Case Study Report: Optical Distortion, Inc. (A) For the three types of chicken farms, the appealing and unappealing characteristics of using ODI contact lens are presented as below. When it comes to appealing characteristics, the three types of chicken farms are the same: less cannibalism, less feed cost, and less the temporary weight loss and the retardation of egg production. From the perspective of cannibalism, which is originally 25% showed in experience, flock mortality is reduced to an average of 4. 5% when ODI lens are used .On the contrary, the debeaking makes the mortality for cannibalism from 25% to only 9% , which is higher than contact lenses used. In other words, farmers can save more 4. 5% (9% minus 4. 5%) chickens in their farm. On the other words, farmers can save $2. 40(price of per hen)*4. 5%*the number of chickens in the farm. From the perspective of less feed cost, the debeaking chicken only can eat the feed in the trough at least 3/8† deep, while the ODI le ns used chicken only can eat the feed in the trough below 3/8†deep.At $158 per ton for chicken feed, this would represent considerable annual savings, especially for large farms. From the perspective of less the temporary weight loss and the retardation of egg production, because the fewer cannibalism and the trauma resulting, farmer can get more eggs. When it comes to unappealing characteristics, the details are as below. Farm Types| Unappealing Characteristics|Small Farms| Labor cost| Lens cost| The number of birds are too small to use the new technology| Medium Farms| Yearly cash flow is only $375,000| The melting point of the hydrophilic polymer is very close to the sterilization temperature| Not reused and the lens cost| Large Farms| Not reused| Lens cost| The melting point of the hydrophilic polymer is very close to the sterilization temperature| As regards geographic areas, ODI should focus its efforts on California. Given the density of large farms n California (flock size of 50,000 or greater), it seems prudent not only to perform the initial product introduction there but to focus the entire first year of business in this single West Coast state. The first year’s planned production volume is approximately 20 million, essentially the same as California’s chicken population. Success in this region could later force farms in other states to implement the lens simply as a means of staying competitive. As regards target segment, it would seem that the focus should be initially on farms with a flock size of 50,000 and over, which means the large farms.Since this would limit the overhead (fixed costs) needed to service these accounts (fewer sales and technical experts required). Also, by focusing on large farms, the sales team could interface with the farms directly, and there would be no need for a â€Å"middle man† to be involved in product distribution. Avoiding this intermediary would help keep costs down. For ODI, pricing con siderations for a pair of lenses are as below. Item| Fixed Cost| Advertising in Trade Publications| $100,000| Headquarters Expenses| $184,000(for volume of 20 million pair)| Regional Office and Warehouse| $196,000|Costs of Molds| $12,000 x 3 = $36,000 (3 molds are needed to produce 21,600,000 pair annually)| Licensing Agreement with New World Plastics| $25,000 (per year, must be paid for first and second year of production)| Item| Variable Cost| per pair of lenses| $0. 032| ODI Cost(per year): TC=FC+MC TOTAL COST=[($100,000 + $184,000 + $196,000 + $36,000 + $25,000)/(50% of 475600000)]+0. 032=$0. 055 (5. 5 cent) per pair Farmers Saving when using ODI lens(per year): Item| Saving| Less Mortality| $2. 40*(9%-4. 5%)=0. 108| Less retardation of egg production| 0. 3/12=0. 044| Less feed cost| (0. 2446-0. 2368)*3/8*($158/2000)*365=0. 084| TOTAL SAVING=$0. 108+$0. 044+$0. 084=$0. 236(23. 6cent) The minimum price that ODI considered is 8 cent per pair, so the price stage is from 8 cent to 2 3. 6 cent, and the ODI should adopt the price policy on entry which is set the price near 23. 6 cent per pair. For the realistic goal for ODI by 1978 is the 50 percent penetration of such farms, when means ODI wants to reach the 50 percent of 470. 8 million pairs, that is, 235. 4 million pairs of lens be sold and used in the farms.

PM Profitel Inc. Case

As a formerly government-owned telephone monopoly, Profitel enjoyed many decades of minimal competition. Even today as a publicly traded enterprise, the company’s almost exclusive control over telephone copper wiring across the country keeps its profit mar- gins above 40 percent. Competitors in telephone and DSL broadband continue to rely on Profitel’s wholesale business, which generates substantially more profit than similar wholesale services in many other countries.However, Profitel has stiff competition in the cellular (mobile) telephone business, and other emerging technologies (voice- over-Internet) threaten Profitel’s dominance. Based on these threats, Profitel’s board of directors decided to hire an outsider as the new chief executive. Although several qualified candidates expressed an interest in Profitel’s top job, the board selected Lars Peeters, who had been CEO for six years of a publicly traded Euro- pean telephone company, followed by a brief stint as CEO of a cellular telephone company in the United States until it was acquired by a larger firm.Profitel’s board couldn’t believe its good fortune; Peeters brought extensive industry knowledge and global experience, a high-octane energy level, self-confidence, decisiveness, and congenial yet strongly persuasive interpersonal style. He also had a unique â€Å"presence,† which caused people to pay attention and respect his leadership. The board was also impressed with Peeters strategy to bolster Profitel’s profit margins.This included heavy investment in the latest wireless broadband technology (for both cellular telephone and computer Internet) before competitors could gain a foothold, cutting costs through layoffs and reduction of peripheral services, and putting pressure on government to deregulate its traditional and emerging businesses. When Peeters described his strategy to the board, one board member commented that this was the same strategy Peeters used in his previous two CEO postings. Peeters dismissed the comment, saying that each situation is unique. Peeters lived up to his reputation as a decisive executive.Almost immediately after taking the CEO job at Profitel, he hired two executives from the European company where he previously worked. Together over the next two years they cut the workforce by 5 percent and rolled out the new wireless broadband technology for cellphones and Internet. Costs increased somewhat due to downsizing expenses and the wireless technology rollout. Profitel’s wireless broadband subscriber list grew quickly because, in spite of its very high prices, the technology faced limited competition and Profitel was pushing customers off the older technology to the new network.Profitel’s customer sat- isfaction ratings fell, however. A national consumer research group reported that Profitel’s broadband offered the country’s worst value. Employee morale also dec lined due to layoffs and the company’s public image problems. Some industry experts also noted that Profitel selected its wireless technology without evaluating the alternative emerging wireless technology, which had been gaining ground in other countries. Peeters’ aggressive campaign against government regulation also had unintended consequences.Rather than achieving less regulation, criticizing government and its telecommunications regulator made Profitel look even more arrogant in the eyes of both customers and government leaders. Profitel’s board was troubled by the company’s lacklustre share price, which had declined 20 percent since Peeters was hired. Some board members also worried that the company had bet on the wrong wireless technology and that subscription levels would stall far below the number necessary to achieve the profits stated in Peeters’ strategic plan.This concern came closer to reality when a foreign-owned competitor won a $1 billion government contract to improve broadband services in regional areas of the country. Profitel’s proposal for that regional broadband upgrade specified high prices and limited corporate investment, but Peeters was confident Profitel would be awarded the contract because of its market dominance and existing infrastructure with the new wireless network.When the government decided otherwise, Profitel’s board fired Peeters along with two executives he had hired from the European company where he previously worked. Now, the board had to figure out what went wrong and how to avoid this problem in the future. Questions: 1. Which perspective of leadership best explains the problems experienced in this case? Analyze the case using concepts discussed in that leadership perspective. 2. What can organizations do to minimize the leadership problems discussed above?

Complementary and Alternative Medicines Essays

Complementary and Alternative Medicines Essays Complementary and Alternative Medicines Paper Complementary and Alternative Medicines Paper most notably in the cities of Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland, and Seattle. It is important for providers to understand that features of the historic Japanese culture remain within the mindset of Japanese Americans, and that these cultural characteristics influence the values, the communication practices, and the health care perspectives of Japanese Americans. In order to deliver culturally congruent care, providers should be aware that certain cultures possess differing values systems, and these values can have an effect on how a particular client within the culture communicates with health care providers. For example, if a person highly values respect, it would be wise for a provider to show the utmost respect for his or her client, perhaps by simply calling the client â€Å"Mr. or â€Å"Mrs. ,† lest the therapeutic relationship suffer. Providers should also be aware that culture has an effect on how a client perceives his or her own health, how a client views the causes of illness and disease, and how a client responds to particular health interventions (Potter Perry, 2009). Some Japanese Americans possess deep-rooted patterns of communicating that they use when interacting with other people. Providers should be familiar with these communication patterns, as well as the attitudes that some Japanese Americans may have toward alternative and complimentary therapies and death and dying issues. Only when providers understand these particular issues pertaining to Japanese Americans can they be able to deliver the culturally competent care needed to ensure desirable outcomes for their clients. Japanese Values Many health care providers are familiar with the core values associated with Japanese culture such as politeness, harmony, group orientation, and the desire for success. The Japanese also have three distinct words to  characterize three traditional values that, although dismissed by some as archaic remnants of the past, still permeate the culture (Wood, 2006). The first value, on, illustrates indebtedness. When Japanese Americans perceive that they are receiving high quality care, they may show their indebtedness by profusely thanking the caregiver. The concept of giri translates into an obligation to the community. Providers caring for a Japanese American may perceive that the client is very demanding when it comes to the care they receive, as he or she may believe that it is the obligation of the caregiver to operate in a precise and professional manner. The last traditional Japanese value is ninjo. Ninjo refers to the desire to follow a path that one thinks feels the most natural, despite social obligations (Wood, 2006). A provider who does not deliver excellent care to a Japanese American may find that the client wishes to be cared for by another healthcare professional. Communication All cultures can be categorized into two broad communication paradigms: low context and high context. People who operate in a low context culture tend to communicate in a direct manner, and they rely on the dissemination of explicit thoughts and ideas in order to give and obtain information. Conversely, people who function in a high context culture, like many people of Japanese decent, tend to be less likely to explicitly express their views, preferring instead to communicate in a less direct manner (Thill Bovee, 2008). The fact that many Japanese Americans operate in a high context cultural environment has tremendous healthcare implications. If a provider is attempting to assess the pain level of a Japanese American, the provider should take into account not only what the client actually says about his or her pain level, but also what the client may be saying with his or her eyes or through the use of body language. People of Japanese ancestry are likely to participate in a subtle exchange of messages with those in which they interact in order to attain a shared understanding. It often becomes important for a provider to look beyond what the client is actually saying, as it is not uncommon for Japanese Americans to suppress their emotions. According to Thill Bovee (2008), the high context Japanese culture does not automatically change simply because someone from a low context culture is communicating with them. Providers should be aware of the unique Japanese cultural communication and behavioral concept called amae. Although there is no English equivalent for this word, amae generally translates into a desire to be taken care of, along with the desire to depend upon another person’s benevolence. Providers should also be aware that amae often carries over into adult life in people of Japanese ancestry (Lebra Lebra, 1986). A provider caring for a Japanese American client may notice that some clients may not wish to feed or bathe themselves, or walk to the bathroom, even though he or she is able to do so. Understanding the concept of amae can help providers develop a treatment plan for increased motility by encouraging a Japanese American client to do certain tasks on their own in order to become more independent and self-confident. Alternative and Complimentary Therapies Many Japanese Americans rely upon alternative therapies that compliment traditional western medicine. These therapies include Kampo, Shiatsu massage, Japanese acupuncture, Japanese herbal medicine, and the popular therapy known as Reiki. A Japanese Buddhist Monk developed Reiki, the spiritual practice of palm healing, in the early 20th Century. The Japanese word Reiki means â€Å"universal life energy,† and this practice is used to reduce anxiety, stress, and pain; it is also used as a means to support overall well being (Mills, 2008). Providers should be aware that Japanese American clients are very open to this form of alternative and complimentary therapy. Understanding that some Japanese American clients may want a Reiki practitioner present in their room after a surgery procedure can help a provider better create a culturally sensitive health care plan for the client. Death and Dying  People of Japanese ancestry may look at the issue of euthanasia differently than those of other Americans. Whereas for the most part the Christian religious viewpoint on death and dying decries acts of euthanasia, many Japanese Americans, with their spiritual beliefs rooted in non-theistic or polytheistic religions such as Shintoism and Buddhism, may not see these issues in such unconditional terms. The country of Japan has practiced euthanasia for much of its history, and some Japanese view the prolongation of life by the use of artificial methods as an abhorrent action against life itself. A person’s right-to-die is engrained into the Japanese culture (Tanida, 2010). Providers should be culturally sensitive to the family of a Japanese American client who, for example, may be in a persistent vegetative state. Although a provider may adamantly disagree with the decision, if a Japanese American family chooses to not keep their loved one connected to artificial feeding tubes, a provider should not attempt to persuade or admonish the family simply because the family’s views on death and dying differ from his or her own views on the subject. The Japanese culture also has a history of glorifying suicide. The belief that suicide is a respectable escape from this world can be traced back to the times of medieval samurai, and this belief is still embedded in the Japanese psyche (Fackler, 2009). A provider should take into consideration the possible propensity for Japanese Americans to romanticize suicide when he or she interacts with clients. This is especially important when providing grief counseling to a client who has recently lost a loved one, or when caring for a client attempting to recover from a debilitating disease. A Japanese American may not give outward verbal signs that he or she is severely depressed or is contemplating suicide. He or she may not express their belief that life is not worth living or that people would be better off without them, due to the high context nature of the culture. Providers should pay particular attention to other common risk indicators, such as changes in physical activity, weight or sleeping patterns, as well less explicit cues, such as instances of a client giving away personal belongings or obtaining a weapon. Suicide is the third leading cause of death in people aged 15-24, men are four times as likely to kill themselves as are women, and the highest suicide rates occur among those who are over 65 years of age (Hoffman, 2009). In light of these facts, providers should pay particular attention to Japanese American clients in these demographics. Conclusion In order to properly adapt care for Japanese American clients, it is important for providers to understand how people raised in the Japanese culture communicate and perceive health issues. By recognizing differences  in communication style, providers can better interact with clients and in turn be in a better position to understand client needs. Understanding differences in views on alternative therapies and death can help a provider to better create care plans and to initiate appropriate interventions. This recognition and understanding helps providers provide culturally competent care to ensure the best possible health outcomes. References Easton, S. E. Ellington, L. (2010). Countries and their culture: Japanese Americans. Retrieved March 29, 2010 from everyculture. com/multi/Ha-La/Japanese-Americans. html Fackler, M. (2009, December 17). At Japanese cliffs, a campaign to combat suicide. New York Times. Retrieved March 29, 2010 from nytimes. com/2009/12/18/world/asia/18japan. html? _r=1 Hoffman, M. (2009). Recognizing the warning signs of suicide. Retrieved March 29, 2010 from webmd. com/depression/guide/depression-recognizing-signs-of-suicide Lebra, T. S. , Lebra, W. P. (1986). Japanese culture and behavior. Honolulu, HI: University of Hawaii Press. Mills, P. (2008). Reiki: a comprehensive guide. New York, NY: Penguin Group. Potter, P. A. , Perry, A. G. (2009). Fundamentals of nursing. St. Louis, MO: Mosby Elsevier Tanida, N. (2010). Implications of Japanese religious views toward life and death in medicine. Retrieved April 1, 2010 from eubios. info/ABC4/abc4288. htm Thill, J. V. Bovee, C. L. (2008). Excellence in business communication. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall. Wood, M. (2006). A brief introduction to Japanese society. Retrieved April 1, 2010 from http://crab. rutgers. edu/~deppen/Japan. htm

Availability Of Information Online Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Availability Of Information Online - Essay Example E-learning is electronic based training which involves the transfer of instructions and educational material through the internet or intranet and/or CD-ROM (Mason, 2006). It may include use of videos, audio, or written materials. Reflective learning Reflective learning can be classified as one of the earliest learning method. This method of learning can be explained as consciously thinking about a situation and analyzing what one has done or is doing. The thinking can involve looking for commonalities, differences, and interrelations beyond their superficial elements. It can be also seen as learning from present or past experience (Moon, 2004). Finally, reflective learning is the process by which one makes meaning from experiences that involve more than simply attending to events but also, the interaction other individuals, the environment and the world. Reflective learning encourages participation, ensures concentration of the students and offers relevant framework for development o f professionals in their respective fields. Reflective learning also enables instructors to learn from their experiences of teaching and facilitate students learning (Brookfield, 2000). By use of the Kolb cycle (a set of four different stages) instructors can acquire useful model by which to develop their practice. The assumption of the Kolb cycle is that it is insufficient to encompass an experience so as to learn and that the cycle can be entered at any stage. The four stages of the Kolb cycle are concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization and active experimentation. Concrete experience involves actual doing of an act so as to have the first hand experience. Reflective observation may involve reviewing and reflecting on the experience acquired (Scho?n, 1987). Abstraction conceptualization involves the thinking process and concluding of the learning experience. Active experimentation is the planning and the trying out of the information and experiences acquired. It is evident that through reflective learning, the lecturer acquires the necessary skills which can enable him or her effectively teaches and counsels the students (Scho?n, 1987). E-learning and Reflective learning The introduction and continued spread of e-learning may lead to the division of academics from the scholars and tends to lead to the anticipation that classes can be triumphant without the face to face contact of the student with the instructor. E-learning may be most appropriate if three factors are thoroughly addressed, which are technology, instructional needs, and education (Lynch, 2002). However, most modern theories of learning (including E-learning) promote the concept of reflective learning as essential for deep and significant learning. The advancement in technology has enabled e-learning to overcome the traditional disadvantages of using technology to gain experience and knowledge. (Stephenson, 2001) In the past, online learning was passive, using the usual teaching centered approach. However, the e-learning approach used this days incorporates the reflective theory of learning enabling learners to observe, reflect, strategize, and even to plan their own learning. The online learning activity, featuring reflections and collaboration, attempts to assist students in self-directed learning and in improving their skills and knowledge through designing tailor made learning programmes that are well suited to each student (Clarke,

Egyptian Mythology, Egyptians and Tanakh Creations Story Essay - 6

Egyptian Mythology, Egyptians and Tanakh Creations Story - Essay Example The creation stories in the Tanakh and Egyptians epic are similar in that all things were created by the deity conceiving something and pronouncing it by his tongue. The creation stories are also different. The creation stories in the Tanakh have only one Supreme Being, who creates everything. But in the Egyptian and Mesopotamia creation epics, there are many gods, and they are struggling against each other. In the Mesopotamians epic, the opposing force (Tiamat) is destroyed through war but in the Tanakh, the opposing force is not destroyed but cursed. In the Egyptians epic story, the deity is represented by nature like the cloud, sun, earth, sky, etc. But in the Tanakh, God is beyond nature and creation, and He is not part of creation. Biblically, a covenant refers to an agreement between God and His people. God makes promises which He faithfully fulfills if the people abide by the conditions set in the covenant. In the creation, God created Adam and gave him dominion over the earth on the condition that He will not eat the tree of Knowledge of good and evil(Gen 2:17). But Adam disobeyed and ate the fruit and hence broke the covenant and, as a result, was cursed and cast out of Eden. Later on, the world became very corrupt, and God decided to destroy the whole earth by water but saved Noah and his household (Gen 6:7-8). After the Flood had receded, God made a covenant with Noah that God will never again destroy the world by water. After the flood, the people came together and decided to build the tower of Babel that was to reach the sky (Gen 11:3-4). God come and confused the people with different languages, and they were scattered (Gen 11:8). God desired to save man, and He called Abraham so that through Him, the man could come into a relationship with God (Gen 17:1-8). Abraham was to live faithfully and blameless before God. Israelites were not only a people of the covenant but also a political  community. The captives of Judah were allowed to return to Jerusalem by Cyrus, King of Persia in his first year of rule. Ezra and Nehemiah record the reconstitution of the nation of Judah through the rebuilding of the temple.