Need for Topic on Climate Change in Geography Courses

Geography instructors from various departments have to ensure that their course materials are relevant to geography topics and concepts, which deal with sustainable development. Their principal goal is educating students about the relevant topics, which requires appropriate geography methods and concepts.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Need for Topic on Climate Change in Geography Courses specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More After comprehensive consultations from stakeholders, it was agreed that there is a need to include a topic on climate change in future geography courses. The topic will be focussed on sustainable development. This report aims at presenting the most significant learning objectives for climate change, how climate change is related to sustainable development, the value of contemporary geography and climate change to student learning, and how contemporary geography contributes to climate change. Le arning Objectives Comprehend how the natural environment is impacted on by climate change. Comprehend how habitat destruction results from climate change, and how habitat destruction interrelates with other climate change features to endanger animal species. Comprehend how air pollution results from climate change, which results to life threatening impacts. Comprehend how climate change worsens soil erosion, which could result to more climate change (Smit Pilifosova, 2003). Identify the manner in which systems work, which will entail understanding the connection between environmental change forms and climate change. Relevance of climate change to sustainable development Human activity has a direct impact on global climate change. Globally, many people associate these changes with negative outcomes. Scientists associate human industrial activities with the mounting global temperatures. The worsening environment and climate change are the principal handicaps to stability, food sust ainability, and bio- diversity. The future lives of people are threatened by the deteriorating air and soil quality, pollution, and desertification. Therefore, there is a need for stakeholders to advocate for programmes that curb these environmental risks. Solving the environmental threats is a key ingredient for ensuring sustainable development and progress. Value of contemporary geography to student learning Contemporary geography is exceptionally vital for students. Through its study, students get the chance to grow their overall intellectual capacity, which is useful for progressive learning. Moreover, students acquire the necessary skills for decision making, critical thinking, and problem solving. Through the study of contemporary geography, students acquire skills on values judgement and clarification. These skills are extremely important since they enhance an individual’s whole development. The study of contemporary geography enables students to view their world spati ally. They acquire a systematic enquiry framework, which makes them inquisitive about their world. Geography acts a vital bridge between the physical and social sciences. Therefore, students possess more information about economies, societies, and culture dynamics (Smit Pilifosova, 2003). Value of climate change to student learning Student engagement and education are extremely vital in creating awareness about the consequences of climate change. Through learning about climate change, students understand comprehensively what global climate change is, how it influences their lifestyles and health, and the activities they can engage in to minimise it. Through learning about climate change, students get a passion to participate in programs that protect the environment and health.Advertising Looking for report on geography? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More How contemporary Geography contributes to climate change Geography involves the study of subjects such as demographics, climate change, urbanization, civics, and welfare state. This enables students to acquire knowledge and skills to research and seek for more information about climate change. In addition, students are informed about how climate change influences their health and environment. Reference Smit, B., Pilifosova, O. (2003). Adaptation to climate change in the context of sustainable development and equity. Sustainable Development, 8(9), 9- 129. This report on Need for Topic on Climate Change in Geography Courses was written and submitted by user Izaiah R. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Introduction to Evergreen Bagworm Moths

Introduction to Evergreen Bagworm Moths If you are unfamiliar with bagworm, you might never notice it on the evergreens in your yard. Cleverly disguised in their bags made from the foliage of the host tree, Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis larvae feed on cedars, arborvitae, junipers, and other favorite landscape trees. Description Despite its nickname, Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis is not a worm, but a moth. The bagworm lives its entire life cycle inside the safety of its bag, which it constructs with silk and interwoven bits of foliage. The larval form appears worm-like, hence the name bagworm. Identifying bagworm in the landscape requires a good eye capable of recognizing their excellent camouflage. Because bagworm usually infests evergreen trees, the brown bags may be overlooked at first, appearing like seed cones. Look for suspicious cone-shaped bundles of dried brown foliage, up to 2 inches long, that match the trees needles or leaves. Only the adult male moth leaves the protection of its bag when ready to mate. The moth is black, with clear wings that span roughly an inch across. Classification Kingdom - Animalia Phylum - Arthropoda Class – Insecta Order – Lepidoptera Family - Psychidae Genus - Thyridopteryx Species - ephemeraeformis Bagworm Diet Bagworm larvae feed on the foliage of both evergreen and deciduous trees, especially these favorite host plants: cedar, arborvitae, juniper, and false cypress. In the absence of these preferred hosts, bagworm will eat the foliage of just about any tree: fir, spruce, pine, hemlock, sweetgum, sycamore, honey locust, and black locust. Adult moths do not feed, living just long enough to mate. Life Cycle Bagworm, like all moths, undergoes complete metamorphosis with four stages. Egg:Â  In late summer and fall, the female lays up to 1,000 eggs in her case. She then leaves her bag and drops to the ground; the eggs overwinter.Larva:Â  In late spring, larvae hatch and disperse on silken threads. They immediately begin feeding and constructing their own bags. As they grow, the larvae enlarge their bags by adding more foliage. They stay within the safety of their bags, sticking their heads out to feed and carrying the bags from branch to branch. Frass falls out of the bottom end of the cone-shaped bag through an opening. Pupa:Â  When the larvae reach maturity in late summer and prepare to pupate, they attach their bags to the underside of a branch. The bag is sealed shut, and the larvae turn to head down inside the bag. The pupal stage lasts four weeks.Adult:Â  In September, adults emerge from their pupal cases. Males leave their bags to fly in search of mates. Females have no wings, legs, or mouthparts, and remain within their bags. Special Adaptations and Defenses The bagworms best defense is its camouflage bag, worn throughout its life cycle. The bag allows otherwise vulnerable larvae to move freely from place to place. Female moths, though confined to their bags, attract mates by releasing strong sex pheromones. Males leave their bags to find partners when they sense the chemical alert from females. Habitat Bagworms live anywhere suitable host plants are available, especially forests or landscapes with cedar, juniper, or arborvitae. In the U.S., bagworms range from Massachusetts south to Florida, and west to Texas and Nebraska. This pest is native to North America.

Argument about physically disabled people. We choose a Essay

Argument about physically disabled people. We choose a subject(physically disabled people) on which to alter people's thinking - Essay Example This greatly affects the quality of life people with disability can lead. The negative attitude stemming from the society leads to denial of opportunities for the physically disabled. Physical disability is not distant from everyone of us. Personally, I underwent a major surgery at 16 on my legs which forever changed my understanding of physical disability. The surgery culminated into a rare condition called Miserable Malalignment. Eventually, matters became so complicated for me that the doctors tried to perform a correction by aligning my legs through sawing both of my legs' bones in half, twisting them to the right place and eventually using screws to keep them in place. This condition prevented me from going on with normal life and every aspect of my life was interrupted including my studies. I had become a physically disabled person. Coping with the situation was hard because I had always believed that physical disability was a condition one was born with. Therefore for me becoming physically disabled at age 16 was something I least expected. Of all facets in life, it is my schooling and social life that was worst affected. In terms of schooling I had to change from school based learning to home based schooling just because the school I had been attending had not put in place facilities for the physically disabled. This negatively affected my performance in school. During this time I came to understand how the society had been unfair to the physically disabled. The fact that my school lacked or did not have elevators or ramps dawned on me. It led me to look around and I found that very few schools had in place facilities for the physically disabled. Although the government has come up with reforms specifically those aimed at integrating special education to regular schools this has not been widespread as many schools, churches, hospitals, cinema theatres, shopping malls as well as other public places lack facilities for the physically disabled. My social life was equally affected considering the fact that prior to my surgery I had made friends. This enabled me to understand how society views people with social disability specifically how the society lacks important information on physical disability. The fact that friends deserted me was a clear indication that the society has formed very baseless attitudes towards people with disability. The mere sight of a physically disabled person in a wheelchair is enough to cause people to run away from those they are supposed to offer care to. I realized that there are very many stereotypes which have been formed by the society about physical disability. The society does not understand th at disability is not inability. Therefore it is not rare to hear cases of physically disabled people who are qualified being denied opportunities because the stereotype that; disabled people cannot perform like non-disabled people, is very rife in the community. There is even belief in some communities that physical disability is communicable or contagious and therefore if one is physically disabled, friends and foes alike tend to keep a 'safe' distance. The stereotypes formed around physical disability go in as far as making some parents or caregivers to fail to take physically disabled children to school because they hold the belief that physical

Reflections in the Facebook Mirror (Ball), In Defense of Masks Essay

Reflections in the Facebook Mirror (Ball), In Defense of Masks (Gergen) - Essay Example ple to reveal their personalities through their decryptions regarding their political and religious views for example (Lee, New York Times 26 June 2010). Gergen asserts that although Polonius has good intentions, and that his advice falls under society’s accepted religious and moral code of behavior, his intentions are based on bad psychology (Gergen p.172). Kenneth Gergen disputes classical psychology that human beings are capable of relying on one basic form of self to which they can remain truthful to. He alludes to Shakespeare’s Hamlet play. In the play, Polonius advises his son Laertes, to remain true to himself and as a result, his son would not be in crisis with other people There have been a wide range of opinions on the use of masks in the social context, with others impressed while others are irritated by the notion. Erik Erikson, a prominent father of thinking in psychology, was of the opinion that human beings are imposed on masks by the society, which results in them feeling alienated and depressed. Erik Erikson suggests that as grownups, people are phased with challenges throughout the 8 stages of life-trust mistrust, autonomy v shame and doubt, initiative v guilt, industry v inferiority, role confusion v ego/identity, intimacy v isolation, self-absorption v generativity, integrity v despair. For example, during the intimacy v isolation stage, parents begin to put pressure on their children to get married and some people enter marriages out of obligation or to confer to the social norms of society (mask) and they experience feelings of depression and alienation as a result. He is critical of the above criteria citing the fact that human beings are usually unable to develop a coherent sense of identity and those that try to do so, invariably develop in most instances, adverse emotional effects. Gergen together with the help of his colleagues, attempted to challenge this belief by conducting a series of studies with the purpose of discovering

Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words - 17

Marketing - Essay Example The main types of media that the marketer needs to utilize are television, newspaper and print media, public relation activities and direct selling. Television: Television advertising assists business to cover wide geographical locations (Shimp and Andrews, 2013). The marketer needs to invest near about 30% of the budget for celebrity endorsement through these advertisements. Public relation: Sponsoring different tournament and live events will help the brand to attract the attention of different consumers. They need to allocate almost 20% of the budget for this promotional strategy. The new recipe for breakfast cereal is intended to the health conscious consumers. The organisation is mainly targeting the slimmer consumers. They have assigned major budget for the promotional procedure. The management has utilized differentiated strategy where they have only targeted a particular section of the society (Weinstein, 2013). The important media for the promotion are sponsorship, television and print media. Television: Displaying advertisements of the product during different morning healthcare, exercise and yoga shows will prove to be beneficial for the organisation. Another 25% need to be allocated for this media. The promotional activity of the new energy drink mainly focuses on the players and sports personalities. The organisation has decided to spent minor budget for the product as they are focusing on concentrated targeting strategy (Debruyne, et al., 2002). They can utilize internet advertising, posters/ hoardings and sponsorship to promote their product. The word of mouth promotional procedure plays a major role for this kind of products rather than the traditional electronic advertisement procedure (Buttle, 1998). Internet: The organisation needs to design an interactive website to promote the benefits of their product towards the sports

Teachers and modern classroom

Teachers and modern classroom There have been profound changes in the education policies with the change in times requiring skills from modern teachers that were not even imagined possible in an earlier era. Generally teaching in classrooms were sessions that used the board, lecture, and oral and written tests of the subject and direct interaction between the teacher and students. This required skills for the teacher like a willingness to explain in depth, lecturing and presentation skills, motivation and in some cases the excise of authority and leadership. This role is slowly changing and so is the method of the delivery of instruction. Today information is not in the lecture or library but on the internet and sometimes lectures are replaces by multimedia presentations. The teacher today is called upon to be techno smart and highly creative. This has posed problems for teachers who are not trained in these technologies. Tied with modern concepts like involvement, and many other new concepts like global learning communities the teacher is always expected to upgrade their skills, and standards not only in the respective subjects but also teaching skills and methods used. This causes a dual draw. As it is there is a lack of information in the teaching departments about performance. Secondly teachers are yet to be trained properly in the use of information for the identification of weaker students and also to understand their own deficiencies. Thus teachers are not privy to data and where data is available either on the education prospects, or on the subjects or even on the students progress teachers are unable to use the information meaningfully due to lack of competency in the use of technology or the necessary medium is not available to them perhaps even on cost considerations. Unfortunately such shifts have caused teaching merely to be academic based on formulas, and painting by numbers. Technology has made the primary-school teachers into technicians. There are more and more of the administrative demands on teachers, and with a larger population of students and changes in policy that make social practices become optional. As education gets modernized it is pointed out that there is a need to develop the data processing methods. Instructional designs properly done will reduce the difficulty of understanding and the modern requirements that is necessary for task automation, time components, and technology. There is a great care required for the educational processes from textbook selection, instruction and the often marginalized social position in womens work. Creativity has become the good example in education with the teachers required to improvise the teaching methods irrespective of the use of modern technologies. As a result modern teachers use props and craft to get the message passed on to the students rather than the rote and learn technology of previews years. More students are taken to field trips and teachers are called upon to show their creative skills in creating absorbing activities. These manipulations need the teacher to plan a sequence of projects where the student is made to learn by doing, something unheard of in the past. The earlier discussions revealed that for a long time the teaching community has been using props and small technology that was creative and crafted to the requirements of the class room. That was an aide and a supplement to the class teaching and did not distance the teacher from the learning stream. Their work was participatory. However with the modern gadgets the things get confusing. The teacher showing a multimedia presentation does not participate with it and there is no doing and learning. Instructions are on the screen and are impersonal. Does this impair the learning process? There is no direct research on this though arguments have been advanced on either site. There are many types of technology that is in use today and it is argued that it can be used to teach. Thus the modern information and electronic technology can be used to convey information like a word processor. This helps those with writing problems as in dyslexia. Teachers can use such technologies to advantage. Other available tools like desktop publishing tools, music software, are all used in modern classrooms. Computer Programs like Excel that can plot graphs and pie charts can be used to save time in the teaching of data analysis. Likewise the physics class can be with practical multimedia. These facilities often handicap the teacher who is not trained to only in the use of the media but also in the method of using them as the supplement to his or her lecture skills and direct rapport with the student. In order to prevent the teacher from becoming a switch presser who takes no active part in the session other that show slides or let the software do the talking teachers have to be educated on the methods of using technology without compromising their ability to build a relationship. This calls for reorienting the teacher. Teachers have a great difficulty in the use of technology. The teacher today is faced with the changes in the classroom and technology. Novick says that students today are into the use of technology but are emotionally and physically drained. They are according to Bernard Novick the products of a new era. Therefore there is a need to train and encourage the teaching communities to be equipped themselves and handle the changes and adapt to the standard of the new student generation and their requirements. Lankshear devolve into the problems of teachers who are subject to a world that is changing not only in the area of literacy and education but also in the changing face of technology which is complicating the way education is being modernized. Thus today there is a link between literacy, technology and learning. The authors comment that there is a lot of enthusiasm and initiative with teachers and students in integrating new technologies into the activities of classroom-based literacy education. The author has researched the aspect o changes in technology that could do both, bridge the inabilities and cover for the shortcomings of the students and also become a possible creator of disabilities. On the other hand, Mac Arthur et al argue that the changes in the technology have changed the nature of the technology practices and also have caused impairment to cognitive facilities. Computer technologies may have a very far reaching influence on skills especially to writing skill and vocabulary. The ability of writing well phased matter with reflection is a skill that is cultivated by the written language; unfortunately these skills could be jeopardized. On the other hand technology could bring in aid to the really disadvantaged by providing required support. In extreme cases this could afford a method of imparting knowledge where formerly there were none. Thus it is evident that the modern teacher cannot be away from the influence of technology and it is time that teachers are technically trained, and they are also made aware of the use of modern data processing methods which will enable them in assessing students and understanding their own potential and role. As with all industries these problems are also the foundations for unions to call in the status quo. Because the modern technologies. The unions for the teachers have unfortunately blocked their own progress. Unions though a great means of collective bargaining interfere in the progressive measures which include programs to enhance the teachers proficiency and effectiveness. Thus there is a problem of the parent collective and the teachers unions and the educational institutions. Though there is autonomy of institutions larger decisions often involve the negotiation with the unions. The recent move in Columbia to make the teaching effective with the voucher plan for example gives greater say to parents. This will ensure that the teacher is dedicated to the job. Thus the initial voucher plans for the children in the District of Columbia which were funded by the government have for example given teeth to parents in education. The unions mostly are raking up issues for political mileage and this seriously impairs the quality of not only education but also of teachers. That unions were involving teachers in their political agenda was evident when the IRS charged that the NEA is illegally making use of funds which are tax-exempt for the purpose of political activity. This is in the wake of the Democratic Party documents showing that NEA is a campaign which was coordinated by the party in the year 1996. The unionism has not affected all teachers. The NEAs agenda is making teachers turn away from it because it involves opinions on international issues not involved with teaching. The AAE and its coalition have 250,000 members, and are not into collective bargaining, on the other hand offer liability-insurance policies and scholarships for teachers. There is also the suggestion of a voucher system where the teacher will be assessed by the parents. This may benefit the good teachers. That these problems do not escape the notice of teachers is evident from the protests of the teachers who wish to be devoid of union compulsions. Teachers are critical of the unions. For example public-school teachers are opposing the unions that claim to represent them on issues ranging from alleged misuse of member dues for political activity to union insistence on politically correct curricula. Thus with parental rights teachers are calling for teachers right to be devoid of union harassment. Thus there is a division on the issue and while unions provide for insurance, and other group benefits, they must not enter into the very root of the education system. Freedom of expression without compulsions must be guaranteed to the teachers. There are lots of women teachers in all communities. In fact women tend to take to teaching as a vocation more than men. However the issues that confront male teachers in the school are also present for the female teachers in the same ratio. Thus they also have to be technically skilled, and oriented to the modern teaching methods. Earlier women were relegated to the kindergarten and the primary schools. Now they are in high positions in academic institutions including research institutions and have a role in the formulation of education policies. The distinction between the male teacher and the female teacher lies in the reach women have on the marginalized children and therefore the teaching of these groups who cannot attend school is a speciality that has to be developed in willing women teachers. Thus the technology of today enables women at home take a shot at home schooling to have virtual but still intimate emotional connections. There is evidence of social disintegration, with the loss of the common school and the teacher education programs and there is a move aimed at retraditionalization with individualism being more asserted. Home schooling has come to stay especially in cases where the child is disadvantaged. It is there that Michael W. Apple lays stress on the role of women educators. It is his opinion that teacher education must be available for women, not only the professional teacher at school, but also those who care for the disadvantaged and are engaged in schooling either at home or in the community. It is urged that this ought to be considered seriously.

Practical Brief Essay

My practical will be a title sequence for a fly-on-the-wall documentary based on the lives of Londoners. The title sequence will last approximately 40-50 seconds and will include typical conventions for a documentary. I will be working in a group of three and am going to be responsible for the camera work and filming. There are several codes and conventions I need to include in my title sequence to fulfil the audience’s expectations. Shots of London signposts and famous landmarks will be shown to set location and give a clear indication of where the documentary is set. Several shots of people looking very glamorous will be shown to represent the luxurious lives these Londoners are supposedly living. This relates to the ‘Empirical Method’ that suggests that the audience are active participants in transaction with the media. They watch such shows for diversion, personal relationships, personal identity and surveillance. Audiences have a great enjoyment in watching the lives of others and a desire to be something there not (want of a better life) and the curiosity of watching how other people live their lives as a way of comparing your life and relationships to theirs. This documentary would be targeted at mainly females, as I believe they are seen to have more of a desire for a glamorous and luxurious lifestyle. A wide range of social grades would find a documentary of this kind appealing, as those who live lives nothing like this would find this interesting because of curiosity and a wish to live a dream life. Whilst those who live similar lifestyles would be interested to see how they are portrayed and seen be others. This would especially appeal to that of a lower social grade (c1, c2), as this is a very idealistic way of living that they would all aspire to live. Shots of very classy shops (such as Harrods), places to eat and hotels will be presented to give the audience a taste of what they are going to see and also what to expect from these London lives. A couple of the shots will include the typical documentary technique ‘wobbly camera’, i.e. walking through a busy street. This will represent the following of the lives of ‘normal’ people in London. This will not only give the audience a taste of what is to come but also assure the audience that what they are seeing is real and gives a sense of actuality. The only written code that will be used in my title sequence is the title of the documentary, which will also be portrayed as a logo and something to recognise and link the documentary with in the future. Extreme close ups will be used on a couple of shots to focus the audiences attention on a certain things i.e. diamond necklace or fancy cars. Wallpaper shots will be used to show the busy streets of London and capture stereotypical associations with London i.e. red buses and black taxis as well as capturing people of London walking through the streets. This will show to the audience that the documentary really is taking place in London and therefore the rest of the documentary will seem more believable. Also some of the shots of the Londoners will be taken at a low angle to represent status and make these people appear important, raising an enigma and making the audience want to carry on watching to find out what is so good about their lives. The duration of most shots will last 2 or 3 seconds and will be fairly fast moving to match the audio and feeling of the title sequence. The sequence will begin with a London signpost to set location and then cut to the famous landmarks i.e. London Eye, Canary Wharf, then there will be various shots of the people and places in London. The audio that will be used over the title sequence will be high-tempo to match with the busy atmosphere and lives of the city. To capture these shots I intend to include in this documentary, I will go into London and film the people, famous landmarks and way of the city. I hope to capture the idealistic way of living through typical shots that represent a rich and glamorous lifestyle and use typical documentary techniques i.e. wobbly camera to present these shots as reality.

Buddhist Zen

Buddhism is one of the major religions of the ancient civilization which had been retained and even strengthened through the course of the human development. It has different schools of thought. Included in these subdivisions is the Zen Buddhism which can be directly described as the school of thought that deals mainly with the different principles of the inner self related to meditation. Along with the Zen Buddhism, which is also referred to as Ch’an or Son, are the other schools such as the Mahayana, Theravada, and Vajrayana (Yool, 1992). Zen can be defined through different aspects and meanings.One of the main definitions of Zen is related to meditation. On the other hand, certain groups perceive Zen as independent from Zen Buddhism. The main objective of the study that was conducted is to be able to present a view on the main principles of Zen Buddhism and related practices. Also, due to the development of these principles, there are different approaches to the practice of Zen Buddhism. The varying approaches and kinds of Zen Buddhism on the basis of location and principles are included in the main issue discussed and studied in research that was conducted.Specifically the objectives of the research revolve around the view on Zen Buddhism. One is to be able to discuss the origin and the history of Zen Buddhism to be able to determine the possible basis of the principles and beliefs of the religion. Another objective is to be able to present the different principles and beliefs of Zen Buddhism. Based on the beliefs and practices, there are different forms of Zen Buddhism. Included in the types are the schools of thought that fall under Zen.In addition, the development of Zen in the different countries is also included in the topics that will be discussed. Another objective is to be able to present a comparative analysis of the Zen and the Pureland Buddhism. Upon the determination of the development of Zen Buddhism through the course of history and the different localities, it is important to determine the importance of the school of thought in the modern era, a view against the concepts of the modern world. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEMBeing one of the major religions in the ancient and modern society, the study focused on the related issue can be considered as essential especially to the determination of the culture and development of the society wherein the religion and the belief originated and flourished. This is due to the fact that Zen Buddhism, being one of the schools of thought of Buddhism, can be considered to have a significant influence to the views and beliefs of the present society. The study can contribute in the increase of consciousness of the public on the belief of one of the most important schools of thought.The aim of the study is to present a particular view on Zen Buddhism and its present role in the modern society. REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE The study that was conducted is mainly based on the research that w as undertaken prior to the study. These include the documents that express the written account of the Zen Buddhism, with its principles, teachings and roles in the culture. One extensive account and study was conducted by D. T. Suzuki which includes a compilation of the practices incorporated in Zen Buddhism.The author presented an in depth organization of knowledge on Zen Buddhism that can be considered as one of the contributing factors in the increase of interest in the subject. Being one of the forerunners in the study of Zen Buddhism, the works of Suzuki can be considered as an importance reference in the study related to Zen. Based on the study, Zen can be defined as a way of life that focuses on the being itself. The factors that revolve around the person and his environment are the main concern of the principles of Zen.It describes the different process mainly targeting the spirit to be able to achieve freedom specifically on the spiritual aspect, the beliefs equating to a p ositive outlook in life (Suzuki, 1960). The main concentration is the body where in development of the view and outlook of the person can be improved. Once the freedom of the spirit is achieved, the state of happiness can ultimately be viewed and experienced on the basis of the freedom of the spirit. On the basis of different writings, the principles of Zen can be interpreted on different approaches and forms.The Doctrine of Enlightenment can be considered as one of the basic teachings related to Zen in China. On the study that was conducted, the analysis was based on the concept of happiness as presented by Zen Buddhism. One of the issues that were discussed is in relation to the position of Zen Buddhism in the principles of Buddhism as a school of thought. This can be attributed to the fact that there are questions on the relationship of Zen Buddhism in the main teachings of Buddhism. These queries are related to the differences on the principles of Zen with the main body of Buddh ism.Certain groups even consider Zen Buddhism as an aversion from the teachings of Buddhism. But it is important to consider two scenarios in the judgment of whether the teachings divert from the true sense of Buddhism or not. One focus can be of the methods or techniques to be able to achieve the ends of the beliefs. For example, to be able to achieve happiness or the state of enlightenment there are certain differences for Zen Buddhism and the original Buddhism in India (Suzuki, 1961). Another view in terms of the historical focus on the definition and application of Zen Buddhism, H., Dumoulin is one of the most important authors. The focus of the works presented is Zen enlightenment and the historical origins of Zen Buddhism specifically in the most important places, India and China where Zen Buddhism flourished (Dumoulin, 1979; Dumoulin, 2005). Zen Buddhism, even against the beliefs of other groups is one of the major divisions of Buddhism that originated in India but developed in the China. Presented in the said work are queries that can be related to the diverting values and even origins of Zen and Buddhism (Dumoulin, 2005). These cases can be viewed as the different sides of a complex concept.But it is important to consider, though, that the application of principles of religion and even traditions adapt to the needs of the particular locality and group of people. Thus, such queries can be considered significant only on the perspective that it can lead to more exploration of the issue. The superficial judgment and analysis of the religion and culture can be considered futile specifically when the standards are set by the factions that are not intrinsic of the group. Another important query to consider is the areas to consider in the study of Zen Buddhism. There are different outlooks and views regarding Zen Buddhism.These views include the psychological, the ontological and the epistemological views. It is important to consider that the role and the pri nciples of Zen Buddhism transcend the different inclusions that are tend to be set by the different fields of disciplines (Suzuki, 1961; Suzuki, 1962). It is then important to consider the fact that in issues such as conceptual definitions, the limitations to the definitions that are often set hinders the probability of understanding. Although this is the case, it is important to set standards and classification yardstick to be able to capture the essence of the term.In a study of concepts and views of any area, it is important to consider that the presentation of data is needed to focus on a district aspect. This is due to the fact that these concepts, e. g. religion cannot be delineated by standards because the effects extend through different aspects and facets. Understanding then requires presentation of a certain aspect and the background of the concept. Zen Buddhism can be considered as an important area of Buddhism, an important area of study due to the effects on the culture of the particular areas that practice the belief.One of the ways to be able to present and achieve an understanding is to target a particular area. In the study conducted, the different approaches and types of Zen Buddhism developed in different locality is the main concentration. Although this is the case, to be able to present a view means to create the environment and the factors and relationships related to the issue. In the study of Zen Buddhism, the determination of the relationship of the principles of Zen to the issues of the modern society is another important focus.One example that can be given is the relationship of Zen Buddhism on psychology and psychotherapy. The relationship can be attributed to the fact that the principles of the religion target the achievement of a state of being which usually affects both the psychological state. It can clearly be related to the goal to achieve a certain level of consciousness. One scenario that was studies was related to the inter action of the eastern and the western methods, namely psychotherapy and Buddhism. These methods are both aimed to be able to improve the behavioral state of an individual.The eastern method as the traditional method is represented by Buddhism and the western method is represented by psychotherapy as the modern method. But this is only one of the situations that describe the extent of coverage of Zen and Zen Buddhism on the society (Muramoto & Young-Eisendrath, 2002). METHODOLOGY To be able to determine and present an overview on the philosophies and beliefs of Zen Buddhism mainly the different approaches and types, the use of a descriptive type of research was conducted.The objective in this type of research is mainly to present a particular perspective on the topic of interest. It also presents the possible factors and issues that can be related to the subject that is under study. It was undertaken through the study of the information that is made available through prior work of co ntemporary authors. The research was conducted through the integration of the different published references and other available sources. The issue that deals with the view of the population can be presented through the gathering of information related to the issue.The method that was utilized in the process is qualitative research. The said method can be utilized for historical and conceptual issues that are given an in depth view. In relation to the results of the study that was conducted, an investigation on the documents and published works that were conducted prior to the research is one of the primary phases undertaken to be able to achieve the set goals. The areas that can be considered of priority include the subjects and issues related to Zen Buddhism such as its origin and history.The principles and beliefs related to Zen Buddhism are the basic knowledge also included in the research. From these principles variations and forms are then studied on the basis of the locality and place of origin. Also included in the search for references are the sources that can be utilized for the discussion and comparative analysis of Zen and the Pureland Buddhism. Mainly, the achievement of the needed data was undertaken through data gathering on the printed and published works on the topic.Description, data gathering of pertinent information and analysis are included in the process undertaken to be able to achieve the goals of the research. The analysis of the data gathered that are essential to the topic is done mainly through the process of induction (Baum, 1984; Hoepfl, 1997). In the research undertaken, the presentation of the overview and the different approaches to Zen Buddhism along with the present role of the school of thought in the present generation is the mainly based on the accumulated facts and organized data from reputable and historical published records and studies.The concepts that were gathered were recorded, measured, organized and analyzed to b e able to come up with the output from published references. The works done by different authors are the main basis of the generalization and conclusion that are established. This phase is important primarily on the basis that the conclusion can be considered as the main end of the process of research. In any sociological process that is under study, there are always varying sides and approaches, which are included in the important part of the research conducted. RESULTSThe issues related to Zen Buddhism revolve on different concepts which mainly include Zen, Buddhism and the different forms of Zen Buddhism. These terms are the primary phase to be able to achieve an understanding of Zen Buddhism, the different forms and the present role in the modern society. I. An Introduction to Zen Buddhism Zen Buddhism Defined There are different attributes within which Zen can be defined and described. This can be attributed to the fact that the concept can affect different facets and aspects n amely including religion, arts, culture and even the different facets of an individual.Zen can be considered as the art improving oneself on the basis of freeing the spiritual well being. The state of freedom and the achievement of enlightenment can be considered as the major goal. From the point of view of the Zen Buddhism, improving the inner person can strengthen other aspects of a person. The body is considered as the most important instrument in the principles of the group (Suzuki, 1961). The main teachings revolve around the fact that the enlightenment and freedom should be achieved by the soul and the spiritual segment of an individual.Etymological Perspective Based on etymological meaning Zen can be attributed as a short term for zenna, which can be traced as related to the Mandarin term channa. Literally, the term is related to the Sanskrit term (dhyana) or meditation. In Chinese writing it is chan, Seon in Korea and Thi? n in Vietnam. Due to the differences in equivalent t erms in different locality, it can be considered important to present the principles on the basis of the development in different localities (Dumoulin, 2005). Zen is one of the sects of Buddhism.It is one of the important schools of thought that mainly focus on meditation, also referred to as zazen. The main focus is the stage of enlightenment through wisdom of the spirit. The main proponent and founder of Buddhism is Buddha Siddhartha Gautama. Being one of the important subdivisions of Buddhism, it is considered to have an important religious and experiential effect on the believers and practitioners. Due to the fact that the teachings are based on theoretical established thought, Zen Buddhism is considered to be a school of religious thought.This can be translated as a basis for decision making for different cultures in Asia, e. g. India and China (Dumoulin, 2005; Suzuki, 1960). Variety of Meanings of Zen Zen can be of different meanings on different people on the basis of their o rientation and affective factors. Although the principles of Zen are meant to be basic, the interpretation often varies, creating different perspective and subjective meaning to the term. The term Zen has different related meanings. One is meditation which can be related to its etymological interpretation and basic meaning in Buddhism (Dumoulin, 2005; Suzuki, 1960).Aside form the said interpretation the other possible meanings of Zen are cosmic reality and the meaning in Zen Buddhism (Kit, 2002). It is important though to consider the fact that to be able to achieve a clear grasp of the meaning of Zen Buddhism, the primary issue to consider is the understanding of Buddhism as a religion. This is due to the fact that Zen Buddhism and its techniques are rooted to the religion that originated in India although many people may contradict due to differences of superficial representations of the two subject matters (Dumoulin, 2005).The discussion on the true meaning of Zen, even at the si mplest perspective can be considered as a complex process. One view is Zen Buddhism being a religion. This is the basis perspective since Buddhism is one of the most important and most established religions. It is important to consider the fact that Zen cannot be captured in just a single definition due to the complexity of its role. In that case, Zen can be considered as a synergy of different definitions and roles which vary on the basis of the perspective needed.Zen Buddhism can be a way of life, a culture and a religious principle. Subjectivity can also play an influential role in the definition of Zen Buddhism. Thus, it is important to consider the different approaches to the study of Zen. One important perspective is the historical basis of classification, mainly based on the development over a timeline. Origin and History of Zen Buddhism In the study of the history of Buddhism, it is important to consider the development and the spread of Buddhism in different countries in As ia.This can be considered important to be able to determine the development of the varying approaches in the practice of Zen Buddhism. The Buddhism Timeline To be able to determine the root of the principles of Zen Buddhism, it is important to study the timeline in the development of the said school of thought. Due to the fact t hat Buddhism can be considered as one of the oldest and most established religions in Asia, the origins of Buddhism can be traced back to the 500 BC. This is the time wherein Buddhism was established (Dumoulin, 2005; McCowan, n. d. ; Suzuki, 1960).Although this is the case, the influences in the practices incorporated in Buddhism can be traced back even through the prehistoric period, wherein the Indus Valley civilization can already be observed to practice meditation. This practice can be considered as one of the most important activity and the basis for the activity of the Zen Buddhism. On the other hand, the said practice was brought to India due to movem ents of different groups of people. Included in the cultures and traditions that was given to India is the Vedas, Brahma, priesthood, the caste and rituals.Also the strengthening of the Dharmic religions which occurred through the 1800 to 470 BCE is followed by the birth of the founder of Buddhism between 624 to 560 BCE (Watterson, 2004). The period of enlightenment of the great teacher of Buddhism in 589 to 525 BCE, can be considered as the revelation of the basic teachings and principles of Buddhism. The commencement of the Four Noble Truths occurred in the Dhamma-vinaya, the religion he established. But after his death between 544-480 BCE, the Buddhists Council became active in the establishment of the religion.The 1st – 3rd Buddhist Councils expanded the coverage of the religion and even included leaders of the country such as King Asoka who converted in 297 BCE. In the said councils the different issues related to Buddhism are discussed and resolved (Watterson, 2004). Du ring this period, the influence of Buddhism reached other parts of Asia, causing the rise of the different forms of Buddhism in different countries which can be attributed to the local and domestic cultures and traditions of the particular area. Buddhism can be considered to adapt and blend to the culture of the people.

kansas essays

kansas essays No states creation was more dramatic, more at the center of national attention, more involved in fundamental moral conflict, than that of Kansas. In a sense, the state's history began with the Indians of the area and the Spanish explorers. A moral conflict of pro-slavery forces in the Civil War that led to Bleeding Kansas, and the moral contradiction between a declaration that claimed, all people are created equally. A constitution pragmatically permitting slavery had led to the repeated compromise in American history until the issue found resolution in war. Kansas as a body politic was born of that process and much of its permanent character or personality was determined by it, {K.Davis}. The state character has changed drastically over time. The first recorded history of this area was made by the Spanish chroniclers of the Francisco Vinquez de Coronado expedition. They set out from the Rio Grande to visit region in the present central part of the state they identified as Quivira. On this trip in the summer of 1541 they found the soil to their liking and capable of growing all products of Spain. The Indians were described as being physically attractive, but they lived in grass houses and possessed no gold, the primary object of the Coronado party. Friar Juan de Padilla returned to Quivira the following year as a missionary to the Indians, he was martyred by those he sought to convert. The Kansa Indians, native to the northeastern part of the Kansas region, lived earthen lodges and depended on their gardens and hunting for food. They and the neighboring Osage Indians to the south lived a semi-nomadic life, whereas Indians making use of the western Plains region were nomadic, depending on the buffalo for food, shelter, and clothing. The Indians first seen by the Spanish in the Kansas area were too few in number to easily exploited under the colonial system of relying on masses of servil...

Rethinking the role of academic institutions in moral education

Rethinking the role of academic institutions in moral education Hashtag: #ReasonsToRespectJB Who and What Deserve Respect? Moral Education and Disrespect Respect is a universal virtue. However, conceptions of what deserves respect and who should be respected differ in culture, established local practices, and individual moral education. The characteristic of a respectable person in a particular community, for instance, is dependent on the manner by which a particular cultural group conceives and recognized the value of respect in peaceful coexistence. Ordinary people possessing culturally compliant social and emotional skills (i.e. honesty, courteousness, humility, etc.) are more likely to earn respect than a young celebrity who enjoys urinating on flag and mop bucket, resist arrest for driving under the influence, sued by neighbor for causing emotional distress, and trying to earn it back here #ReasonsToRespectJB. There are several sources of moral education but good moral training is often acquired through institutions cultivating â€Å"sense of reverence†, an attitude believed vital to morality. Academic institutions are morally educative community influencing students’ moral principle, values, and compliance with social standards. In fact, transfer of academic knowledge and development of social and culturally appropriate values and attitude in school occurs simultaneously as a formative process of linking moral values and intellectual capacity, reinforcing values learned at home and community, and developing a  strong commitment to moral behavior. The above commitment is the reason why most educated individuals are ethics-conscious, perpetually respectful of life and authority, respectful of other people’s feelings, belief, property, and rights, and easily earn the respect of others. They normally offer the apology for their mistake or negligence as truth and authenticity in moral principle deserve or earns respect. Get more information here: Practice What You Preach Human Dignity: How Is It Valued What Are the Best Ways to Conduct Research A Better Way to Understand Teams and Roles Managing Conflicts in Group Apology Alone Earns No Respect Some of the #ReasonsToRespectJB according to social media users (most probably avid fans of JB) despite nasty behavior is the courage to admit his mistake and make a public apology. Another is his well-publicized  kindness and good deeds, which is in quite interesting. Considering the fundamental moral principle associated with the apology, admission of mistakes, charity, and good deeds, these acts should be supported by important virtues to earn respect. For instance, a respect-earning apology is one that is sincere, do not make excuses for such behavior, and offered in a timely manner. Unfortunately, JB’s public apology contained praises like â€Å"I am a human being I think people forget that†, â€Å"I’m growing up, figuring some stuff out†, and others. JB even used bad publicities (ex. â€Å"labeling him gay at age 16 and a father at 17) as an excuse for his behavior. The untimely public apology blaming inherent human weakness such as young peoples’ natural curiosity, stress from bad publicity, lack of knowledge, and public misjudgment was actually considered by some social media users as the â€Å"strongest† reason to respect JB. It is really sad but insincerity deserves no respect. It is important to consider that although the courage to admit a mistake and offer an apology for them are excellent moral values, JB is a young celebrity that thrives on reputation and fans, rapidly losing disenchanted fans and product endorsement. He made so many excuses for his mistakes and therefore not guilty, insincere, and misleading the public about his true intention. Moreover, in terms of moral education, JB entered show business at a very young age and graduated from high school in 2012 with the following comments. â€Å"Im free! It was hard doing school and work every day†¦. at school, usually you have to do a lot of writing and reading. Im really not into that stuff. I like to be out there! Now, was his lack of concern over intellectual development in high school affected his moral education? Probably Yes.

Financial Performance Measurement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Financial Performance Measurement - Essay Example The cost of capital aspect is usually a main area of focus. The reason for cost of capital to be taken care of seriously is to ensure that the capital used does not exceed the expected returns from activities of the organization. There is also need to ensure that the cheapest type of capital is used to finance the company. The company therefore considers the cost of each type of capital to compute a general cost of capital referred to as weighted average cost of capital. This incorporates costs such as cost of equity and also cost of debt. The weighted average cost of capital method allocates weights to each component cost of capital. This weighted average cost of capital is usually the rate of return that the company should not operate under in order to be operating at a safe point. Weighted average cost of capital is the best measure of a company's cost of capital. Its measure gives weights to the components of a company's capital structure. Usually shareholder's equity and debt create a company's capital (Brealey, & Richard 2000p.66-67). The company's share price as in the financial times is recorded as 876.50 being the last price. This represents an increase in the company's share price as compared to last one week by 2.2%. 876.50 being the last share price also represent a decrease in share price as compared to 3 months earlier. ... EQ = This represents the shareholder's equity and equity equivalents TC = This represents the total capital RRR = This is the required rate of return, usually cost of equity capital D = This represents debt capital K = This represents the cost of debt capital TR = This represents the tax rate Using the figures of the group company the British Associates Foods plc the shareholder's equity for the year 2005 = 3,696,000 This is at required rate of return of 12% The group's debt as at 17/09/05 was at the tune of 150,000,000. This debt was at a cost of 10% Therefore the weighted cost of capital can be computed as follows: - Total capital = Equity capital + debt Therefore Equity capital = 3,696,000,000 Debt = 150,000,000 Total capital = 3,746,000,000 Therefore WACC = 3,696,000,000 x 12% + 150,000,000 10% (1.28%) 3,746,000,000 3,746,000,000 Note: the tax rate = 28% WACC 0.118 + 0.02 WACC 0.138 = 13.8% Therefore the WACC = 13.8% The company's share price as in the financial times is recorded as 876.50 being the last price. This represents an increase in the company's share price as compared to last one week by 2.2%. 876.50 being the last share price also represent a decrease in share price as compared to 3 months earlier. At the earlier three months the share price was 5.4% higher than the current share price of 876.50. Six months ago, the company's share prices are recorded to have been 16.4% higher than 876.50. This represents a large fall in the company's share price. Upto these six months ago, the trend seems to be moving in the same direction as that of the sector. A difference in the trend of the company's share prices emerges when the comparison of the

Management Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Management - Research Paper Example Racists feel that their race is superior to the other and therefore they bear qualities that people from the other race do not have. The act of racism in workplaces is a form of discrimination that is persisting in the society and should be dealt with. The most reported cases of racism is between the whites and the blacks whereby the whites feel that they are more superior to the blacks and so they discriminate them at work places. Racism in the workplace breeds hatred, discrimination, friction, distrust and violence among employees. In this paper, I will discuss the forms of racism and how they can be prevented. Racism in workplaces takes many forms which are: Recruitment During the recruitment process, the recruitment staff may exclude ethnic minority candidates from the process. They even decline their applications because they are from the minority group or are people with color yet the organization is owned by whites. They even discriminate them because of their gender insisting that they only hire men. This should be stopped. Working environment Many employees are discriminated in their working place with allegations that they do not have certain skills to take some jobs. The employees from the ethnic minority are harassed and their work loads increased while they work under poor working conditions. Promotion When a chance for a promotion arises in an organization, some employees are exempted due to their race and the chance given to the whites who are from the ethnic majority who believe they are more superior to the blacks. Employees deserve equal opportunities despite their race, it is one’s knowledge, skills and competence that can earn them a promotion (Silva, 2007). Harassment Racism in the workplace may come in form of harassment whereby the ethnic minorities are harassed by those in higher positions. The people of color are harassed by their superiors and their work loads increased as they are threatened with dismissal. The employees from t he superior race make fun of employees from the minority group yet no action is taken. Redundancy During a redundancy exercise, only employees from the minority groups are selected for redundancy leaving behind those from the superior race Dismissal When there is misconduct in a working place, the people from the ethnic minority are singled out and dismissed. On the other hand, the superior races who are the white workers are retained and only given warning letter and that is racial discrimination. Furthermore, according to a research done by Osajima (2007), ethnic minorities are always dismissed for minor mistakes yet that can be solved and they continue working. The superior groups are always on the run to kick out the people of color from their workplaces. Preventing racism in workplaces The first step to take in order to prevent racism in workplaces is by advocating for the creation of anti-discrimination policies which addresses racism and the consequences of racism acts. The n ext step is to make sure that organizations hire employees from different ethnic groups and races so as to create a diverse working force. Next is promoting employees basing on their merits and achievements and not basing on their race and other discriminatory factors. When this is done, employees will feel valued and they will work harder for the benefit of the organization. Employees should be trained equally and at the same time so as to decrease discriminatory rates and racism. Employee trainings should be held so as to give them guidance on how to conduct themselves at their place of work and how to treat each other. Moreover, the organization should organize team buildings for