How Graduate School Is Different From College

How Graduate School Is Different From College The first days of graduate school go by in a blur for most new students. Even if you attend the same university as you did as an undergraduate, the graduate school experience is very different from being an undergrad. Is grad school harder than college? Definitely. Coursework Is Just the Beginning Classes are a big part of masters programs and the first couple of years of doctoral programs. But grad school entails more than completing a series of classes. You will take courses during the first couple of years of your Ph.D. program, but your later years will emphasize research (and you probably wont take any courses during those later years). The purpose of grad school is to develop a professional understanding of your discipline through independent reading and study. The Apprenticeship Model Most of what you learn in grad school will not come from classes, but from other activities such as  conducting research and attending conferences. Youll choose  and work closely with a faculty member on his or her research. As an apprentice of sorts, youll learn how to define research problems, design and carry out research projects to test your hypotheses and disseminate your results. The end goal is to become an independent scholar and devise your own research program.  Ã‚  Ã‚   Graduate School Is a Job Approach grad school as a full-time job; its not school in the undergraduate sense. If you soared through college with little studying, youre in for a big culture shock as a grad student  The reading lists will be longer and more extensive than youve encountered in college. More importantly, youll be expected to read and be prepared to critically evaluate and discuss it all. Most grad programs require that you take initiative for your learning and demonstrate a commitment to your career.   Graduate School Is a Socializing Agent Why is graduate school so different from undergrad? Graduate training teaches you the information and skills that you need to be a professional. However, being a professional requires more than coursework and experiences. In graduate school, you will be socialized into your profession. In other words, you will learn the norms and values of your field. Relationships with faculty members  and other students are important to your career, and youll make them in grad school. Most importantly, you will learn to think like a professional in your field. Graduate school shapes the mind and leads students to think in new ways. You will learn to think like a professional in your field, whether a scientist, historian, educator, philosopher or practitioner. It truly prepares you to immerse yourself in a specific field - especially if you choose to become an academic professional in the long run.

The Olympics - Ancient Greek Funeral Games

The Olympics - Ancient Greek Funeral Games Its a curious aspect of sports that even when they are part of a celebration of global peace, like the Olympics, they are nationalistic, competitive, violent, and potentially deadly. Substitute panhellenic (open to all Greeks) for global and the same could be said about the ancient Olympics. Sports, in general, could be described as ritualized warfare where one power competes with another, where each hero (star athlete) strives to defeat a worthy opponent within a setting where death is unlikely. Rituals of Compensation for the Catastrophe of Death Control and ritual seem to be the defining terms. In coming to grips with the eternally present fact of death (remember: antiquity was a time of high infant mortality, death by diseases we can now control, and almost incessant warfare), the ancients put on shows where death was under human control. Sometimes the outcome of these shows was purposeful submission to death (as in the gladiatorial games), at other times, it was ​a  victory. Origin of the Games in Funerals The[re] are a number of possible explanations of the custom of funeral games such as to honor a dead warrior by reenacting his military skills, or as a renewal and affirmation of life to compensate for the loss of a warrior or as an expression of the aggressive impulses that accompany rage over the death. Perhaps they are all true at the same time.- Roger Dunkles Recreation and Games * In honor of his friend Patroclus, Achilles held funeral games (as described in Iliad 23). In honor of their father, Marcus and Decimus Brutus held the first gladiatorial games in Rome in 264 BCE. The Pythian Games celebrated Apollos slaying of the Python. The Isthmian games were a funeral tribute to the hero Melicertes. The Nemean games celebrated either Hercules killing of the Nemean lion or the funeral of Opheltes. All of these games celebrated death. But what about the Olympics? The Olympic games also began as a celebration of death, but like the Nemean games, the mythological explanations for the Olympics are confused. Two central figures used to explain the origins are Pelops and Hercules who are genealogically linked insofar as Hercules mortal father was Pelops grandson. Pelops Pelops wished to marry Hippodamia, the daughter of King Oenomaus of Pisa who had promised his daughter to the man who could win a chariot race against him. If the suitor lost the race, he would also lose his head. Through treachery, Oenomaus had kept his daughter unmarried and through treachery, Pelops won the race, killed the king, and married Hippodamia. Pelops celebrated his victory or King Oenomaus funeral with Olympic games. The site of the ancient Olympics was in Elis, which is in Pisa, in the Peloponnese. Hercules After Hercules cleaned the Augean stables, the king of Elis (in Pisa) welshed on his deal, so, when Hercules had a chance after he finished his labors he returned to Elis to wage war. The conclusion was foregone. After Hercules sacked the city, he put on the Olympic games to honor his father Zeus. In another version, Hercules merely regularized the games Pelops had instituted.

History of Calculus Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

History of Calculus - Essay Example scovery of calculus is endowed to two amazing mathematicians who were Isaac Newton, a noteworthy British mathematician and scientist, and the self taught scholar of mathematics, the renowned German mathematician Gottfried Leibniz, in the latter half of the 17th century (Ferreiros & Gray 22). The issues as to which mathematician should be held responsible for the discovery of calculus, the scholars happen to be divided. It was both Newton and Leibniz who registered noteworthy discoveries in calculus to be known as being the originators of calculus. As far as Newton’s discovery of calculus is concerned, it was more of an outcome of the need for a practical use of calculus, as he needed a discipline like calculus to solve the pressing problems in geometry and physics (Ferreiros & Gray 72). It was Newton’s endeavor to use calculus as a mathematical discipline that facilitated the solution of the scientific problems he delved on that made calculus possible. In contrast when one considers Leibniz, it was his fascination pertaining to the tangent line problem that made calculus possible (Ferreiros & Gray 72). The notion as to the creation of calculus gave way to one of the most ardently contested rivalries in the world of mathematics that was between Newton and Leibniz. However, the thing that needs to be understood is that calculus as people know it today is the outcome of the work of a number of mathematicians. Although Newton published his Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematics on 5 July 1687, yet the later mathematicians did make many contributions to calculus. The later day addition to the principle of calculus like differential equations and calculus of variations were published a little time after Newton and Leibniz did register their contributions, by mathematicians like Euler, Jakob and Johann Bernoulli (Ferreiros & Gray 72). It was the manuscript published by Bishop Berkley that enunciated the limitations inherent in the works of Leibniz and Newton.

Developing Countries Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Developing Countries - Research Paper Example However, India is able to develop rapidly than Pakistan because of India’s ability to maintain a healthy secular democratic administration. On the other hand, Pakistan is struggling to develop properly because of the over influence of religion on politics. This paper compares the political, economic and educational developments in India and Pakistan in order to learn more about the factors which affects the developments in developing countries. Developing Countries The classification of countries under the label of developing, developed or underdeveloped is often raises controversies. It is not necessary that these classifications are always correct. The controversies often arise when deciding whether a country is developed or developing. America, Canada, Japan, Europe etc are generally accepted as the developed regions or countries even though recent recession destroyed the financial backbone of these countries or regions. At the same time the emerging economies or the most r apidly developing economies like India, China, Brazil etc are only developing countries even now. A country with low level of material wealth is often considered as a developing country. ... Even if enough resources are available, it is not necessary that a country may develop rapidly. The development of a country depends on how well the country is able to utilize its internal resources and the external opportunities. The growth and development of developing countries are heavily dependent on the nature of politics and growth of education and economy. Culture or ethnicity plays an important role in the development of politics, economy and education in developing countries. India and Pakistan are two neighboring Asian countries and both of them have similar internal resources and external opportunities for developments. However, India is currently developing much rapidly than Pakistan even though India is the second in the list of population size. India is a true secular democratic country whereas democracy and secularism in Pakistan remain on paper alone. In fact military controls the politics and administration in Pakistan. Democracy in Pakistan was not developed proper ly because of the influence of Muslim religion in all the aspects of administration in Pakistan. â€Å"77% of the Pak population is Sunni Muslims whereas 20% is Shia Muslims. Christians and Hindus constitute the remaining 3 %† (Religious Intolerance in Pakistan, n. d). Shias and Sunnis often engage in violent clashes even though both of them belong to the same Muslim community. â€Å"Random acts of violence have occurred in Pakistan for many years between Shiite and Sunni Muslims. These often take the form of unprovoked attacks on peaceful Muslims at prayer† (Religious Intolerance in Pakistan, n. d). Religious fundamentalism made the Pak soil fertile for the growth of terrorism. It should be noted that Bin Laden was staying in Pakistan for the last few years

Fiji Water Analysis Essay Example for Free

Fiji Water Analysis Essay Introduction Corporations like FIJI Water are forced into having Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Corporate Social Responsibility is the idea that businesses need to give back to society as much as they take away. Although companies like FIJI Water produce some type of product for consumers, in this circumstance water, they are compelled to give back as much as they take away. The issue companies have to deal with is whether they really have CSR, or if they are just green washing to make people believe they are socially responsible. â€Å"The 10th Edition of the Concise Oxford English Dictionary recognizes the word â€Å"greenwash,† defining it as, â€Å"’Disinformation disseminated by an organization so as to present an environmentally responsible public image.†Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ Environmentalist make it their job to eliminate any green washing by bringing to light companies negative impact on society and proving outrageous claims to be over exaggerated or completely false. Environmentalists compel companies to reduce, if not eliminate their carbon footprint on society through exposing how wasteful they are to society. Every company in order to be successful has to recognize this issue and do their best to resolve it, otherwise their company will tank. Companies like FIJI Water have to walk the fine line of CSR and green washing. FIJI Water LLC, has proved to be a tough competitor in the market of selling bottled water. They have overcome trials and set-backs and have kept their image of a premium quality brand of water. They have done their very best to become socially responsible over the years and had to use the idea of green washing to exploit their product. How FIJI Water Came to Be FIJI Water was started in 1996 by David Gilmour, one-time partner in Clairtone Sound Corporation Limited. FIJI Water is a U.S.-based business and brand of bottled water derived, bottled, and shipped from the Fiji Islands. It is available in 330ml, 500ml, 1 liter and 1.5 liter bottles.  According to marketing materials, the water comes from an artesian aquifer in the Yaqara Valley of Viti Levu. A good way to identify what FIJI Water is all about is in their mission statement which reads, â€Å"FIJI Water, the world’s finest water, is committed to quality and excellence in our product, people, profitability, and strategic partners. We are dedicated to communicating the passion and unique properties of our brand to consumers worldwide and continuing to invest in the future while preserving and cherishing the pristine source.† They have marketed their product towards wealthy people who could afford to pay more to drink water. Their main marketing drive was that the product was far from pollution, acid rain, and industrial waste in the island nation of Fiji. The way their product differed from other water bottling companies is that the FIJI Water was drawn from an artesian aquifer that lies hundreds of feet below a primitive rainforest. The idea being that distance and isolation is part of what makes FIJI Water so much purer and richer in taste than other bottled waters. Corporate Social Responsibility FIJI Water has a few marketing and CSR campaigns to help address the issue of social responsibility and to give their product more attention. FIJI water was seen as being extremely wasteful. To take a naturally occurring product like water and use the resources to ship it half way across the world was thought to be â€Å"water insanity†. â€Å"In response to this protest, the company launched a new promotion campaign under a slogan â€Å"every drop is green,† only to be immediately accused by environmentalist groups of engaging in green washing activities.† At the same time that this was happening, FIJI focused on its contributions to the local communities in Fiji. As environmentalists’ criticism increased over the years, FIJI Water LLC launched a â€Å"carbon negative campaign, claiming that it was the first bottle water company to release carbon footprint of its products.† This was part of their push towards the slogan â€Å"every drop is green†. The Company estimated its total annual carbon footprint at 85,396 metric tons of CO2eq.  They were also able to calculate their carbon emissions at each stage of the product from production to distribution. They started at the production of raw material to running the plant, to getting it to the markets, to even refrigerating the product. It did this to try and eliminate as much carbon footprints as possible. The VP of the company, Mooney, argued that, â€Å"the only way consumers can turn their environmental intentions into good decisions is to give them the information they need regarding the emissions with the products they buy.† This made customers aware that they were actively looking at their operations and doing something about it. To most people, it didn’t really matter what, as long as they were trying. Sustainability The results of their work were impressive. They were able to accomplish the following: reduction in packaging by 20 percent, supplying 50 percent of the energy used at its bottling plant with renewable energy, optimizing logistics to be more carbon-efficient in transportation, restoring grasslands in the Yaqara Valley by planting trees, and supporting recycling programs for plastic PET bottles. With their new image as a socially responsible company they were more sustainable in the fact that they were giving back. They summed up their operations in a PR pitch: a sale of every bottle of FIJI Water would result in a net reduction of carbon in the atmosphere! The question remains, are they giving back enough? To ship a naturally occurring product half way across the world seems pretty ridiculous to those who care about our earth’s resources being wasted. Green Washing Conservation group didn’t buy it. This absurd claim, along with â€Å"every drop is green† was green washing at its finest so they thought. In Section 53 of the Commonwealth Trade Practices Act 1974 it prohibits a corporation from representing that â€Å"goods or services have sponsorship, approval, performance characteristics, accessories, uses or benefits they do not have.† They were in direct violation of this. The Greenwash Brigade were some of the most professional environmentalist that were known for exposing this kind of  behavior. In June 2008, they published an article titled â€Å"Fiji Water by the numbers,† which summarized the terrible environmental impact of the company. Some facts that came out of that were that there were 5,500 miles per trip from Fiji to Los Angeles, 46 million gallons of fossil fuel, 1.3 billion gallons of water used, 216 million pounds of greenhouse gases emitted. These were staggering amounts of energy, water, and fuel being used, especially for something that is naturally occurring! The Impact of the Nay-Sayers These conservationists had a big impact on the company in forming who they are today. Without bringing this information to light, nothing would be changed. They would just fly under the radar without being criticized. We need the nay-sayers to motivate companies to change so they won’t use up our limited resources. The fact of the matter is that every drop of FIJI Water is not green, every drop is imported! These environmentalist help prevent green washing and provide important research behind their accusations of companies. In 2007, Pablo Paster, an engineer and MBA, undertook a thorough and exhaustive study of the cost of bringing a liter of FIJI Water to America. His study found that, â€Å"In summary, the transport of that one kilogram bottle of Fiji water consumed 26.88 kilograms of water (7.1 gallons), .849 kilograms of fossil fuel (one liter or .26 gallons) and emitted 562 grams of Greenhouse Gases (1.2 pounds).† One can only imagine the effect that has on our en vironment. Conclusion Overall, Fiji was able to show flexibility in changing for the times. They established credibility among the community through addressing concerns of others. At first they tried to hide from the answers needed by consumers and conservationists and even used some green washing to help get their product through the tough, trying times. They used the idea of green washing to their benefit by making outrageous claims that had to be proven false initially, but in time they held to it as best they could. They had to be vague at first, but later specified their goal in operations. Comparatively to most companies, FIJI Water has a great Corporate Social Responsibility in that they have done significant things to try and eliminate their carbon footprint through efficiency and planting more trees. Going forward, the company will have a hard time living up to becoming a carbon negative company. They need to keep on their path of fulfilling promises made to invest in renewable energy equipment and to off-set that with continuing to plant trees abroad. FIJI Water has especially helped the local community surrounding Fiji. They have established good CSR with the five neighboring villages. They have supported children’s educations in helping them get a good start. In pre-schools they have provided equipment, educational material, teacher training and other support. In March 2002, the company voluntarily established an independently administrated community development trust fund and allocated FJ$275,000 to it. That is a great use of their resources. They also support village projects to improve hygiene and sanitation as well as provide portable drinking water. FIJI Water is a benefit to society as a whole. They have used their resources to give back to our planet and help others in need. More [ 1 ]. James McMaster and Jan Nowak, â€Å"FIJI Water and Corporate Social Responsibility – Green Makeover or â€Å"Greenwashing†?, May 2009, Ivey Management Services. [ 2 ]. N.A., â€Å"FIJI Water,† http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiji_Water#History, 2012. [ 3 ]. N.A., â€Å"Mission Statement,† http://www.fijiwater.com/company/company-timeline/, N.D. [ 4 ]. Ibid. [ 5 ]. James McMaster and Jan Nowak, â€Å"FIJI Water and Corporate Social Responsibility – Green Makeover or â€Å"Greenwashing†?, May 2009, Ivey Management Services. [ 6 ]. â€Å"FIJI Water Becomes First Bottled Water Company to Release Carbon Footprint of Its Products,† April 9, 2008, www.bevnet.com [ 7 ]. Ibid. [ 8 ]. Ibid. [ 9 ]. â€Å"FIJI Water Becomes First Bottled Water Company to Release Carbon Footprint of Its Products,† FIJI Water Press Release, Los Angeles, April 9, 2008, www.bevnet.com. [ 10 ]. James McMaster and Jan Nowak, â€Å"FIJI Water and Corporate Social Responsibility – Green Makeover or â€Å"Greenwashing†?, May 2009, Ivey Management Services. [ 11 ]. Heidi Sigelbaum, â€Å"Fiji Water by the numbers,† June 6, 2008. [ 12 ]. www.treehugger.com/files/2007/02/pablo_calculate.php [ 13 ]. McMaster and Nowak, â€Å"Natural Waters of Viti Limited – Pioneering a New Industry in the Fiji Islands.†

Working Capital Analysis of Wal-Mart Essay -- Business Management Fina

Working Capital Analysis of Wal-Mart Every business decision is associated in one way or another with the financial condition of the organization. The results of a working capital analysis will assist in the determination of organization ¡Ã‚ ¦s ability to remain in a particular line of business. The primary focus of Team C ¡Ã‚ ¦s analysis of Wal-Mart, Inc is its current and future financial condition. The most imperative areas that are found in the Capital Structure Analysis Report fall into the following categories: Working Capital Management, Valuation and Investment, and Cost of Capital. The company ¡Ã‚ ¦s operational processes within each area can be examined and related financial data reviewed. Once the financial data is collected and calculated potential areas for improvements can be identified and corrective or innovative measures can be implemented. As in all businesses, which include Wal-Mart, it must be considered that there is always room for improvement. Working Capital Management In order to fully understand the company ¡Ã‚ ¦s financial position a financial manager must consider the amount of net working capital available. The net working capital is the difference between current assets and current liabilities. Companies normally have a positive net working capital. The components of working capital change continually within the cycle of operations. (Brealey, 2001) Therefore, an effective manager will monitor the cash conversion periods to determine the length of the production process. The longer the process, the longer the company ¡Ã‚ ¦s money will be tied up in the process. The two elements in the business cycle that normally absorb the most cash are inventory and receivables. The main sources of cash are payables and equity or loans. Speeding up the working capital cycle will generate more cash for the company. www.planware.org This management of working capital will allow the company to maximize its use of existing cash flows as well as leverage additional sources of working capital. Underperforming Company Ratios Although Wal-Mart is performing well overall and remains a leader within the retail industry, the company is not without opportunities for improvement. An analysis of the financial ratios for the company over the last three years as well as an industry comparison has identified areas in which the company could enhance its ... ... 3.03 3.26 3.59 Payout Ratio_______________________.19__________.17__________.23____ Table B Industry Averages_____________________________________________________ Fiscal Year 2001 2002 2003____ Leverage Debt Ratio 1.58 2.2 .53 Times Interest Earned Ratio .75 1.78 2.46 Liquidity Current Ratio 3.1 2.8 2.6 Quick Ratio .6 .5 .4 Net Working Capital .195 .07 .195 Efficiency Asset Turnover Ratio 2.23 2.27 2.2 Average Collection Period 12.6 10.4 8 Inventory Turnover 5.24 5.38 5.73 Profitability Net Profit Margin 3.7 2.8 3.97 Payout Ratio_______________________ 32.4__________34.3________34.6___ Tables are a combination of the following resources: www.walmart.com, www.reuter.com, www.biz.yahoo.com, UOP library resource Dun and Bradstreet industry ratios, and www.bloomberg.com.

Management of Learning Disabilities

This semester we have spent the majority of our time learning about and discussing how we can best assist exceptional students. Many of these students are individuals with learning dissabilities. Although it would be difficult for every teacher to understand the distinctions, symptoms, weaknesses and strengths of every disability, it can be very helpful to have a general knowledge of the disabilities that may hinder a student†s ability to learn. Unlike other disabilities like paralysis and blindness, a learning disability (LD) is a hidden handicap. A learning disability does not disfigure or leave visible signs that would invite others to be understanding or offer support (Council for Exceptional Children (CEC),1999). Therefore as teachers it will be our responsibility to provide that understanding and support for those children already diagnosed and also be alert to the warning signs that may be symptoms of a previously undetected disability. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (NIMH, 1999) describes learning disabilities as follows: LD is a disorder that effects people†s ability to either interpret what they see and hear or to link information from different parts of the brain. These limitations can show up in many ways. As specific difficulties with spoken and written language, coordination, self-control, or attention. Such difficulties extend to school work and can impede learning to read or write or to do math. Learning disability can be lifelong conditions that, in some cases, affect many parts of a person†s life: school or work, daily routines, family life, and sometimes even friendships. In some people, many overlapping learning disabilities may be apparent. Other people may have a single isolated learning problem that has little impact on other areas of their lives (National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD), 1999). It is important to remember that the term â€Å"learning disability† does not apply to students who have learning problems that are primarily the result of visual or hearing problems, mental retardation, emotional problems, or disadvantaged due to their environment, culture or economic background (US Department of Education (USDE), 1999). Knowing what constitutes a LD is only the beginning. Diagnosing and treating a learning disability is not a diagnosis in the same sense as diabetes or chicken pox. These have a known cause, distinct symptoms and treatments. LD, on the other hand, is a very broad term that covers an array of possible causes, symptoms, treatments, and outcomes. There is no medication to â€Å"cure† a learning disability (NCLD, 1999). If seen listed, the number of disabilities may be daunting. However, The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Ed. (DSM-IV) (DSM-IV, 1994) divides LD†s into three broad categories. The first category is Developmental Speech and Language Disorders. This includes disorders where children have trouble controlling their rate of speech and may be behind their peers in learning certain speech sounds. Difficulty being able to express oneself through speech as well as trouble understanding certain aspects of speech all fall within this category (Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDAA), 1999). The second category is Academic Skills Disorders. Under this category falls Developmental Reading Disorder, more commonly known as dyslexia. Reading disorders are believed to effect 2-8% of all elementary school children(The International Dyslexia Association (IDA), 1999). Developmental Writing Disorder, where a child has difficulty with vocabulary, grammar, hand movement or memory and Developmental Arithmetic Disorder where a child has difficulty recognizing numbers and symbols and understanding abstract concepts also fall under this category. The last category is known as â€Å"other† Learning Disabilities. The most commonly known are the attention disorders. Although Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are not actual learning disabilities they may have a major impact on the child†s ability to learn (CEC, 1999). Another aspect that separates a learning disability from other disabilities is that currently the cause is unclear. In the past it was believed that LD†s were the result of a single neurological problem. However recent research seems to indicate that most learning dissabilities do not stem from a specific area of the brain, but from difficulties in bringing together information from various regions of the brain (NIMH, 1999). There are several possible reasons how a child might develop these subtle disturbances in the brain. When the brain is developing as a fetus is highly vulnerable. If it†s development is disrupted early in the development that fetus may die or suffer from more severe dissabilities. If, however, the disturbance occurs later in development when the cells in the brain are becoming specialized (this is when areas associated with attention, thinking and emotion develop as well as processing sight, sound and other senses) then the result may show up as a LD as the child develops (NIMH, 1999). The use of tabacco, alcohol, or other drugs during pregnancy may also have damaging effects on the unborn child. Many drugs taken by the mother are passed directly onto the fetus. Babies born to mother who smoke for instance are more likely to have a low birth weight. Newborns born under weight tend to be at risk for a variety of problems one of which is a learning disability. Alcohol may distort the developing neutrons and if taken in large amounts may result in fetal alcohol syndrome, a condition that leads to intellectual impairment (NIMH,1999). Complications during pregnancy or delivery are another possible cause of a LD. In some instances the mother†s immune system will react to the fetus as a virus and fight it as if it were an infection. This may lead the forming brain cells to settle in the wrong places. Lack of oxygen during delivery can impair brain function and result in a LD as well (NIMH, 1999). It is also a fact the LD†s seem to run in families. This may indicate a genetic link of some kind. Although LD can run in the family, there is usually a slight difference in the disability. For example, a parent that may have a writing disorder may have a child that has difficulty expressing him/herself in speech (NCLD,1999). There could be another reason why LD†s run in the family. It is possible to attribute some learning difficulties to the family environment. For example, if a parent has a disability where s/he has difficulty expressing themselves through language then they are more likely not to talk as much to their children or the language they use may be distorted or they may use the wrong words often enough so that the child is unaware the s/he is using the wrong words also. The child lacking a good model to follow when acquiring language skills may then acquire a disability of his/her own (NCLD, 1999). Another possibility is that toxins in the child†s environment may effect the development of the child†s brain in early childhood. In a study conducted by the National Institute of Health, a connection was made between the amount of lead in the environment and learning disabilities (NIMH,1999). Though many of the possible reasons a child may have developed a learning disability can not be changed, environmental causes can. Many learning disabilities are not noticed until a child enters the formal learning environment (Council for Learning Disabilities (CFLD), 1999). Therefore, teachers are often the first to observe a child†s persistent difficulties in mathematics, reading or writing and must be knowledgeable about what to look for and how to identify a LD. A student with hyperactivity is relatively easy to identify due to there impulsive behavior and excessive movement, however, what about the child who is quiet and polite or the child with above average intelligence who has been able to maintain passing grades? These children are less likely do be identified and may go unnoticed and undiagnosed. Although some children reach developmental milestones (first step, first word, ability to write one†s own name†¦ etc. ) later than others, there are a few things to keep in mind when trying to informally identify a learning disability. If a milestone is already quite delayed, if there†s a history of LD in the family or if there are several delayed skills than a teacher should notify the students parents and relay his/her concerns (CEC,1999). At this time, parents have the opportunity to have their child tested free of charge through the local public school system or they may choose to have an outside evaluation. Documentation is then brought to the school and an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is created. It is a teacher†s responsibility to implement the goals and objectives of an IEP in the classroom. Due to the individuality of each student and his/her disability, accommodations may vary among students. There are several different strategies that may help children to succeed academically. For example, printing assignments on a certain color paper or encouraging a child to use a colored overlay may significantly help them to process written information. Older students with developmental writing disorders may benefit from bringing a lap top computer to class to take notes or use for any written assignments. It may also be necessary that a student has someone to take notes for them or have assignments read to them aloud. These are just a few of the possible accommodations that may help students learn more efficiently (LDAA,1998). Insuring each child receives the best education possible is a never ending task yet it is one each teacher takes on when s/he enters the classroom. By educating oneself about the different ways students learn, having the ability to notice when there appears to be a gap in a child†s intelligence and the skills s/he has achieved and being familiar and educated about what you can do to help each child fulfill his/her potential can only make for a better educator. Management of Learning Disabilities This semester we have spent the majority of our time learning about and discussing how we can best assist exceptional students. Many of these students are individuals with learning dissabilities. Although it would be difficult for every teacher to understand the distinctions, symptoms, weaknesses and strengths of every disability, it can be very helpful to have a general knowledge of the disabilities that may hinder a student†s ability to learn. Unlike other disabilities like paralysis and blindness, a learning disability (LD) is a hidden handicap. A learning disability does not disfigure or leave visible signs that would invite others to be understanding or offer support (Council for Exceptional Children (CEC),1999). Therefore as teachers it will be our responsibility to provide that understanding and support for those children already diagnosed and also be alert to the warning signs that may be symptoms of a previously undetected disability. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (NIMH, 1999) describes learning disabilities as follows: LD is a disorder that effects people†s ability to either interpret what they see and hear or to link information from different parts of the brain. These limitations can show up in many ways. As specific difficulties with spoken and written language, coordination, self-control, or attention. Such difficulties extend to school work and can impede learning to read or write or to do math. Learning disability can be lifelong conditions that, in some cases, affect many parts of a person†s life: school or work, daily routines, family life, and sometimes even friendships. In some people, many overlapping learning disabilities may be apparent. Other people may have a single isolated learning problem that has little impact on other areas of their lives (National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD), 1999). It is important to remember that the term â€Å"learning disability† does not apply to students who have learning problems that are primarily the result of visual or hearing problems, mental retardation, emotional problems, or disadvantaged due to their environment, culture or economic background (US Department of Education (USDE), 1999). Knowing what constitutes a LD is only the beginning. Diagnosing and treating a learning disability is not a diagnosis in the same sense as diabetes or chicken pox. These have a known cause, distinct symptoms and treatments. LD, on the other hand, is a very broad term that covers an array of possible causes, symptoms, treatments, and outcomes. There is no medication to â€Å"cure† a learning disability (NCLD, 1999). If seen listed, the number of disabilities may be daunting. However, The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Ed. (DSM-IV) (DSM-IV, 1994) divides LD†s into three broad categories. The first category is Developmental Speech and Language Disorders. This includes disorders where children have trouble controlling their rate of speech and may be behind their peers in learning certain speech sounds. Difficulty being able to express oneself through speech as well as trouble understanding certain aspects of speech all fall within this category (Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDAA), 1999). The second category is Academic Skills Disorders. Under this category falls Developmental Reading Disorder, more commonly known as dyslexia. Reading disorders are believed to effect 2-8% of all elementary school children(The International Dyslexia Association (IDA), 1999). Developmental Writing Disorder, where a child has difficulty with vocabulary, grammar, hand movement or memory and Developmental Arithmetic Disorder where a child has difficulty recognizing numbers and symbols and understanding abstract concepts also fall under this category. The last category is known as â€Å"other† Learning Disabilities. The most commonly known are the attention disorders. Although Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are not actual learning disabilities they may have a major impact on the child†s ability to learn (CEC, 1999). Another aspect that separates a learning disability from other disabilities is that currently the cause is unclear. In the past it was believed that LD†s were the result of a single neurological problem. However recent research seems to indicate that most learning dissabilities do not stem from a specific area of the brain, but from difficulties in bringing together information from various regions of the brain (NIMH, 1999). There are several possible reasons how a child might develop these subtle disturbances in the brain. When the brain is developing as a fetus is highly vulnerable. If it†s development is disrupted early in the development that fetus may die or suffer from more severe dissabilities. If, however, the disturbance occurs later in development when the cells in the brain are becoming specialized (this is when areas associated with attention, thinking and emotion develop as well as processing sight, sound and other senses) then the result may show up as a LD as the child develops (NIMH, 1999). The use of tabacco, alcohol, or other drugs during pregnancy may also have damaging effects on the unborn child. Many drugs taken by the mother are passed directly onto the fetus. Babies born to mother who smoke for instance are more likely to have a low birth weight. Newborns born under weight tend to be at risk for a variety of problems one of which is a learning disability. Alcohol may distort the developing neutrons and if taken in large amounts may result in fetal alcohol syndrome, a condition that leads to intellectual impairment (NIMH,1999). Complications during pregnancy or delivery are another possible cause of a LD. In some instances the mother†s immune system will react to the fetus as a virus and fight it as if it were an infection. This may lead the forming brain cells to settle in the wrong places. Lack of oxygen during delivery can impair brain function and result in a LD as well (NIMH, 1999). It is also a fact the LD†s seem to run in families. This may indicate a genetic link of some kind. Although LD can run in the family, there is usually a slight difference in the disability. For example, a parent that may have a writing disorder may have a child that has difficulty expressing him/herself in speech (NCLD,1999). There could be another reason why LD†s run in the family. It is possible to attribute some learning difficulties to the family environment. For example, if a parent has a disability where s/he has difficulty expressing themselves through language then they are more likely not to talk as much to their children or the language they use may be distorted or they may use the wrong words often enough so that the child is unaware the s/he is using the wrong words also. The child lacking a good model to follow when acquiring language skills may then acquire a disability of his/her own (NCLD, 1999). Another possibility is that toxins in the child†s environment may effect the development of the child†s brain in early childhood. In a study conducted by the National Institute of Health, a connection was made between the amount of lead in the environment and learning disabilities (NIMH,1999). Though many of the possible reasons a child may have developed a learning disability can not be changed, environmental causes can. Many learning disabilities are not noticed until a child enters the formal learning environment (Council for Learning Disabilities (CFLD), 1999). Therefore, teachers are often the first to observe a child†s persistent difficulties in mathematics, reading or writing and must be knowledgeable about what to look for and how to identify a LD. A student with hyperactivity is relatively easy to identify due to there impulsive behavior and excessive movement, however, what about the child who is quiet and polite or the child with above average intelligence who has been able to maintain passing grades? These children are less likely do be identified and may go unnoticed and undiagnosed. Although some children reach developmental milestones (first step, first word, ability to write one†s own name†¦ etc. ) later than others, there are a few things to keep in mind when trying to informally identify a learning disability. If a milestone is already quite delayed, if there†s a history of LD in the family or if there are several delayed skills than a teacher should notify the students parents and relay his/her concerns (CEC,1999). At this time, parents have the opportunity to have their child tested free of charge through the local public school system or they may choose to have an outside evaluation. Documentation is then brought to the school and an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is created. It is a teacher†s responsibility to implement the goals and objectives of an IEP in the classroom. Due to the individuality of each student and his/her disability, accommodations may vary among students. There are several different strategies that may help children to succeed academically. For example, printing assignments on a certain color paper or encouraging a child to use a colored overlay may significantly help them to process written information. Older students with developmental writing disorders may benefit from bringing a lap top computer to class to take notes or use for any written assignments. It may also be necessary that a student has someone to take notes for them or have assignments read to them aloud. These are just a few of the possible accommodations that may help students learn more efficiently (LDAA,1998). Insuring each child receives the best education possible is a never ending task yet it is one each teacher takes on when s/he enters the classroom. By educating oneself about the different ways students learn, having the ability to notice when there appears to be a gap in a child†s intelligence and the skills s/he has achieved and being familiar and educated about what you can do to help each child fulfill his/her potential can only make for a better educator.

Philiosophies in Early Childhood Teaching Essay

Formal Writing Assignment: Introduction to Early Childhood Education Instructor: Ecole Morris- University of Montana-Western Goal: to develop a personal teaching philosophy of early childhood education based on research and analysis. Purpose: If someone asked you to explain your philosophy of teaching young children, what would you say? How would you begin to formulate a statement that captures the essence of your belief about teaching and learning? Teacher candidates are increasingly being asked to articulate their philosophy of teaching. This request is often in conjunction with the submission of a teaching portfolio for seeking teaching positions or dossier for promotion and tenure. A teaching philosophy is a statement of reflection about what you will do as a teacher. Your beliefs influence your action. It has been recognized by many teachers that the process of identifying a personal teaching philosophy and continuously examining, testifying, and verifying this philosophy can lead to change of teaching behaviors and ultimately enhance professional and personal growth. Assignment: For this assignment articulate your teaching philosophy in two phases. (100 points) 1. Introduction: at the beginning of the semester, you are required to write a 4-5 page paper. In it, consider the following points: * Why do you want to become an early childhood education teacher? * What type of teaching position do you hope to obtain, and why? * What are your strongest characteristics or talents as a potential early childhood educator? * What are the factors that influence your decision to pursue this career? 2. Areas to emphasize: Use the following questions to help you think about your beliefs regarding teaching young children. It is not necessary to respond to each of these questions in your written philosophy. You may also decide to comment on additional issues as well. Take some time to think about each one in some depth. * How do you view young children? What is the child’s role in his/her education? What do you belief about how young children learn? * What role does family play in your teaching? How will you include them in your classroom? * What are your views on inclusion, how will you include all children in your classroom? * How do you view the role of the teacher? How will your views influence your teaching? * What kind of environment do you hope to create in your future classroom? How does this relate to your basic beliefs about young children and learning? * What do you hope young children will become? What do you want them to achieve, accomplish, learn, feel, etc.? * What kind of feedback will you offer your students as they work? What kind of assessment will you use to be sure that students have met objectives? * Looking back at the history of early childhood education, who or what approaches have the greatest impression on you, and why? General Paper Format Suggestions: * Use present tense, in most cases. Write the paper in first-person (which is the most common and easiest for your audience to read). * Write in language and concepts that can be broadly appreciated. A general rule is that the statement should be written with the audience in mind. It may help to consider a school administrator (e.g. , school principal) as your audience. * Write a paper that will let your audience know where you stand in regard to important educational theories and practices. By including specific examples of teaching theories and approaches, you are able to let your reader take a mental â€Å"peek† of your classroom. * Make the paper memorable and unique. Think of this teaching philosophy as part of a job application where your readers are seeing many of these statements. What is going to set you apart from others? What about you are they going to remember? Create a vivid portrait of yourself as someone who is intentional about teaching and committed to his/her career. * A working draft will be developed and reviewed by a peer during the class. This working draft will be submitted with the final draft. * The personal philosophy paper must be typed, double-spaced, following APA (6th ed. ) guidelines. It must be a minimum of 4 pages not including references or appendices. A minimum of 3 references must be used. No more than 1 of these can be electronic (internet) references. A textbook bibliography can be a goldmine of references to follow up on as well.

Tanza Oasis Essay Example

Tanza Oasis Essay Example Tanza Oasis Essay Tanza Oasis Essay Tanza Oasis Hotel and Resort  is Cavite’s only true resort destination, offering the perfect mix of exceptional resort accommodations, service, comfort and a classic Filipino hospitality. Just one hour away from busy life of Metro Manila, Discover a hotel that is modern as well as classically elegant. This Cavite resort offers the largest themed Swimming Pool in the area, that will cater adults and loved by the kids. Also, Tanza Oasis Hotel stands as the premier meeting center for international clientele and businessman alike with meeting, convention and outdoor function space. Youll experience superior luxury, subtle elegance and personalized services and much more. FACILITIES ; SERVICES Facilities * Swimming pool The swimming pool safari themed is equipped with 3 exciting giant pool slides for those who want some action and play house for the kids. It caters to all, both young and adult. * Ballroom With the elegant fully carpeted ballroom and chandeliers. Sahara Ballroom lends itself to buffets or sit down dinners, as well as conferences and seminars. Capacity for sit down dinners is 400. 500 for theatre style seating. For your convenience, it has a divider that can split the ballroom in half. This is truly Cavite’s most elegant location for all your special events. * Business Center The Center provides businesses of all sizes with the office facilities and services they need to be successful. From printers, Xerox machine, Wi-Fi internet. The Center offers the highest quality business services available. * Meeting Room Whether you are presenting to your largest client or holding off-site company meetings, our meeting rooms are the ideal professional working environment. * Basketball Nothing beats a favorite Filipino game which we enjoyed very much. A very athletic game to flex those muscles. * Billiards * Volleyball * Souvenir Shop Services * Room service * Body massage * Wi-Fi access * Standby generator

Restive and Restless - Commonly Confused Words - Restive versus Restless

Restive and Restless - Commonly Confused Words - Restive versus Restless Theres only a shade of difference between the words restive and restless, but its a shade worth paying attention to.The adjective restive means difficult to control or impatient in the face of restraint or authority. The adjective restless means unable to rest, relax, or remain still. Unlike restive, restless is not associated with external restraint. Also see the usage notes below. Examples: The only real answer to a  restive animal  is good schooling. Nothing upsets horses or ponies (or riders) more than a  restive animal  that will not stand quietly.(George Wheatley, The Young Riders Companion, 1981)If you have a burning, restless urge to write or paint, simply eat something sweet and the feeling will pass.(Fran Lebowitz, Metropolitan Life, 1978) Usage Notes: [T]he words [restive and restless] overlap considerably. The subtle distinction, says The American Heritage Guide to Contemporary Usage (2005), is between restive, impatient with restriction, and restless, fidgety. But restive is often merely a synonym for restless. Some critics lament this development, says Garner 2003, but it seems irreversible.(Jan Freeman, Ambrose Bierces Write It Right. Walker, 2009)Restless is used for a person or thing that has or gives little rest: She spent a restless night worrying about the bills, Never more, Sailor / Shalt thou be / Tossed on the wind-ridden / Restless sea (Walter de la Mare). Restive is used for a person or thing that is uneasy, or impatient of authority: Horses can be restive creatures, anxious to be moving when they should be standing still.(Adrian Room, Dictionary of Confusable Words. Routledge, 2000)[A] patient who is sleeping poorly may be restless, but the same patient is restive only if kept in bed against his or her will.(Webster s New Essential Writers Companion. Houghton Mifflin, 2007) Practice:(a) My _____, roaming spirit would not allow me to remain at home very long.(Buffalo Bill Cody)(b) Pete was a _____ prisoner, and on February 27, 1945, he and a fellow convict escaped from Retrieve Prison Farm and made their way to Detroit before being recaptured by the FBI.(Douglas V. Meed, Texas Ranger Johnny Klevenhagen. Republic of Texas Press, 2000) Answers to Practice Exercises Glossary of Usage: Index of Commonly Confused Words Answers to Practice Exercises: Restive and Restless (a) My restless, roaming spirit would not allow me to remain at home very long.(Buffalo Bill Cody)(b) Pete was a restive prisoner, and on February 27, 1945, he and a fellow convict escaped from Retrieve Prison Farm and made their way to Detroit before being recaptured by the FBI.(Douglas V. Meed, Texas Ranger Johnny Klevenhagen. Republic of Texas Press, 2000) Glossary of Usage: Index of Commonly Confused Words

HUM DQ 2 WK6 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

HUM DQ 2 WK6 - Essay Example These events led to Muslims getting education by interacting with other societies and as a result there are renowned Muslim scientists and doctors. Various Muslims have given significant share in developing major scientific plants in the United States as well as other countries around the world (Moore, 1995). Many Islamic individuals who settled in the US as civilians gained good contacts with the resident and managed to build good reputations with them, which made it easy for them to survive and flourish. Muslims have also managed to unite together religiously and politically under one banner making them very strong in the US as well as the world at large. The end of the Cold War also assisted in the development of Islam in the US as most of them moved in search for religion where they later settled in US to develop their different political ideologies and maintain their faith. Terrorism by some factions of the Muslim community has also increased development of Islam in US with various people trying to fight

Leaving Canada - What tax issues should a Canadian leaving Canada Article

Leaving Canada - What tax issues should a Canadian leaving Canada consider so that they become non-resident for Canadian tax pur - Article Example Therefore, once a person moves out of Canada, they would want to break all ties with the country, thus making them non-residents. Being a Canadian non-resident means that one is allowed to pay less (or no) taxes to Canadian Revenue Agency. In order to achieve this non-payment of taxes, one must ensure that he establishes new residence in the country he migrates to, and sever all residence ties with Canada. This is because, as â€Å"Tax for Canadian Expats† provides, the Canadian tax agency can only consider someone as a non-resident after they have been living out of Canada for 24 months. According to â€Å"Emigrants and Income Tax 2011†, one can sever residential ties with Canada by selling or leasing out his Canadian homes on a long-term basis and establishing permanent homes in his new country (4). Secondly, one can have his spouses and dependants, if any, leave Canada and join him in his destination countries. A Canadian expatriate can also dispose of any property h e has in Canada, surrender his driving license, credit cards, and health insurance (ibid). If one does not sever his residential ties with Canada, then he is liable for the taxation of his overseas income. Tax obligations to Canada After a person leaves Canada and severs all residential ties with the tax agency, there are a number of source incomes that are liable for taxation under the Canadian law. According to â€Å"Leaving Canada Checklist† the payers in Canada are allowed to a withholding tax rate of 25 per cent (5) on some income sources. Some of the income sources liable to this taxation include rental payments, annuity payments, retiring allowances, and dividends. An emigrant is obligated to pay tax on these types of income sources and can, therefore, not file any return claims. However, as â€Å"Tax for Canadian Expats† provides, an expatriate who receives income from such sources as real estate and timber operations may decide to pay taxes using a different t axing method then ask for a refund on some of the withheld tax. In addition, an emigrant has tax obligations to Canada if they owed the country any taxes prior to their departure. A person can also file for a refund if they paid excess taxes to the Canadian tax agency. According to the provisions of â€Å"Emigrants and Income Tax 2011† such returns should be filed on or before the 30th day of April, the year after the expatriate moved out of Canada (7). Tax obligations to the new country of residence Most countries have a system of taxing the incomes of their residents. This means that a person migrating from Canada to another country will most probably have to pay taxes on their income in the destination country. Accordingly, â€Å"Tax for Canadian Expats† advices that such a person should ensure that these taxes are paid for by their employer, by insisting on a written contract specifying that the company is responsible for the payment of such taxes. The employee sho uld keep records to show that they have paid those taxes, by obtaining copies of tax returns filed on their behalf by the recruiting company (ibid). Proof of payment of taxes in a foreign country enables an emigrant to request for the deduction of Canadian tax