Quantitative Risk Assessment Essay

For the project of redesigning packing for the Canadian market, quantitative risk assessment plays an important role. Quantitative risk assessment is, â€Å"A process for assigning a numeric value to the probability of loss based on known risks and available, objective data†¦ used to determine potential direct and indirect costs to the company based on values assigned to company assets and their exposure to risk† (InvestorWords.com, 2014). For this particular project, quantitative risk assessment will be useful in determining not only which are areas of potential risk, but also to what degree these risks may affect the overall integrity of the project. Revised Project Background The project of the redesign of packaging for the Canadian market currently consists of four different product lines including Dial, Tone, Right Guard, and Dry Idea, and consists of over 50 variants spanning the four lines. Each new packaging design is independent of every other thus there exists no interdependency from design to the next. Each design observes a similar path consisting of initial review of changes, alterations, and additions by management, marketing, and the design team, initial layout of established changes by the design team followed by a first round review of changes by marketing, legal, management and compliance. If additional changes are required, a second round of design and review is implemented up to two additional rounds as needed. Upon successful acknowledgement of new designs, the artwork is then sent to our preproduction team for development to printer-ready artwork. Once completed, the artwork is sent to a third party production house for mockups to be created to be sent to the parent  company in Germany for final approval. If any designs are rejected (and they never are), commentary from Germany is implemented into further redesign and the process is restarted. Upon approval from Germany, artwork is submitted to the printer. Printer will then submit print-ready, color-calibrated proofs for final approval. Proofs are reviewed by management for final approval before actual printing. Once printed, packaging is sent to a fulfillment house to have labels applied to containers and filled with product or have wraps applied to soap bars. Upon completion of fulfillment, finished product is shipped to various holding facilities in Canada for final disposition. As previously stated, project will span eight months from inception to final delivery. Risk Identification Framework Management Delays: As the majority of the work for this project involves objective changes and adjustments to existing packaging, the first phase, initial review by management, involves nominal risk. Management will evaluate and select which products will receive updated treatment for inclusion into the Canadian market. Once the products are selected, management has no further involvement outside of potential cancellations of various packaging designs or their requested involvement during a particular phase of completion. Design Delays: As this project includes approximately 50 variants of packaging including labels and wraps, production must be coordinated to allow for enough time for completion of initial layouts and any necessary revisions, while taking into consideration the design needs and time constrains on the design team from other departments and for other projects running concurrently. While the project has a timeline of eight months, final design layouts must be approved and ready for preproduction within the first four months of the project. The in-house design team will complete the bulk of the design phase of the project, though external design agencies may be utilized if time constraints are threatened. It should be noted that the use of external design agencies would incur additional costs. Also, the design process will require an initial review before being released to the review team for official review, to ensure all parameters have been incorporated. Review Delays: This area constitutes the bulk of all potential delays. While each packaging component is independent of one  another, the review process for each component must be completed sequentially among the review team. There are five departments that will review each design layout and either approve or denote changes. Some of these potential changes are subject to additional changes or cancellations by other departments, meaning the first team may indicate several changes that the third team can then override if the indicated changes are deemed unnecessary. Also, the number of rounds of review may add potential delays to the overall project. Another potential area of delay exists with the timely completion of review by the required departments. Certain key staff may be unavailable to review a packaging design during a given time period. To circumvent potential risks, each member of the review staff will have two alternative staff members capable of reviewing each package design. Should no staff members be available to review, the particular review component is submitted to the manager of the appropriate department for their review. This becomes a last-resort scenario in that traditionally, managers indicate changes that exist outside the scope of the project. Review delays present unique difficulties in that not every team member provides feedback as to their daily availability. Pre-Production and Printing Delays: The preproduction team will transition the artwork from its final design to printer-ready artwork. There is typically no risk for delay in this area. The printer will then produce a final round of art proofs calibrated to their individual presses. One round of revisions is already assumed and build into this process. Additional revisions are not typical though can present a nominal risk. Corporate Delays: While exceeding unusual, corporate can play a small role in delaying a project by canceling one or more packaging designs, adding addition package designs above and beyond what management has previously approved, or by simply delaying the provision of final approval on all finished designed submitted. While these scenarios are unlikely, they do represent the extreme limit of delay-related risk in that they can affect the project for an indeterminate amount of time. Qualified and Quantified Risk Matrix Review Delays Reduce Risk Consistent communication with key reviewers. Engage alternate reviews if primary reviews are unavailable. Enlist managers is alternate reviewers are unavailable. Greater than two days review time by each responsible team member. Project Manager Pre-Production and Printing Delays Reduce Risk Constant communication with pre-production team and printer will reduce or eliminate risks. Buffers in timing are already built into production times. Delays indicated by pre-production team or printer. References Cooper, D. F., Grey, S., Raymond, G., & Walker, P. (2005). Project risk management guidelines: Managing risk in large projects and complex procurements. West Sussex, England: John Wiley & Sons. InvestorWords.com. (2014). quantitative risk assessment. Retrieved October 1, 2014, from http://www.investorwords.com/19179/quantitative_risk_assessment.html Loch, C. H., DeMeyer, A., & Pich, M. T. (2006). Managing the unknown: A new approach to managing high uncertainty and risk in projects. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons.

Believe: Positive Psychology and Positive Attitude

One of his most influential essays Self-Reliance. In lamens terms it means, believe in yourself you can accomplish everything. Almost everyone desires to be successful, everyone hopes to live a happy life, but how can we do that. I feel â€Å"believe in yourself† is the most important. â€Å"Believe in yourself† means a positive attitude. When you wake up in the morning, open your eyes, draw the curtain, enjoy the The great writer Emerson once said, â€Å"Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string† in first sunlight of the day. And tell yourself â€Å"Have a happy day'.Just as professor Galbraith ays, miou yourself decide whether you are happy today. Be sure you are happy today. â€Å"Then you go to work or study, do it with your full enthusiasm. You should overcome your shyness, your timidity and your tension. Be brave and get courage from your heart, face up to your challenges. Say to yourself, â€Å"I'll try it, and I will try my best. † Remember, no one can obstruct your progress. Believe in yourself, you can do it, you can manage it. Always share and show ideas with others, cooperate with others. I have a friend who is happy everyday. She loves talking and laughing.Her ace and heart are full of sunshine. Her happiness infects everyone around her. Every time I stay with her, I am very happy, Just when I see her bright smile. I admire her, for she loves life so much. Chat with a smile on your face, let people around you know that you are confident and enthusiastic. Yes, you should believe in yourself, you should be confident. I think that true confidence comes from your inner heart. It is stable and will not change with the circumstance. Do what you want to do. Never let your thoughts lay in your diary quietly. That's meaningless. You should put it into practice.Never hesitate, do it with all your passion. I read a story about a salesman, who practices laughing for five minutes in front of the mirror everyday before he goes out. He wants to meet everyone with a smile on his face. He becomes a successful salesman. I was inspired, everyone wants to make friends with those who are happy, optimistic and full of enthusiasm. Success needs your confidence, passion and positive attitude; living a happy life needs your confidence, passion and positive attitude. All this needs you to â€Å"believe in yourself†. So, believe in tomorrow, believe in dream, and believe in yourself!

Discuss The roles of power and social stratification Essay

Discuss The roles of power and social stratification - Essay Example These western influences impacted on Lia’s family in several ways; first of all, they became entangled in constant tugs of war with the American doctors who brushed of Hmong strong cultural beliefs as unreasonable and stupid. On the contrary, Lia’s family believed in the Hmong beliefs, and in it, was confused by the medicine administered by the doctors together with the Hmong rituals they were still holding onto. The other effect that Lia’s family encountered while on foreign soil was that by accepting the [new] western cultures. To them, the western cultures were overly rude and disrespectful as was seen in the medical settings. In the Hmong beliefs, a doctor could not undress a patient or use powerful drugs on them. These were, however allowed in America. Again, they did not understand the medical explanation for epilepsy as an effect to the brain; rather, they perceived of it as â€Å"exit† of one’s soul, which to them was caused by Lia’s sister banging the door to her little sister. These are some of the cultural challenges they encountered in America. On the other hand, the statuses of the Hmong were also affected by their arrival to America. At the outset, they comprehended that they had plunged themselves into an excessively stratifying culture, and in the segregation that followed, they felt less welcome and enslaved in the west. This is because the westerners perceived on the Hmong as inferior and â€Å"contaminators† of their culture. As such, they looked upon them as mere aliens invading their land and went on to be rather harsh on them. The effect of this was the Hmong is acquiring lower levels of esteem while on foreign soil. On the other hand, they also deteriorated materially in that they did not find any worthy jobs to act as sources of life for them and had to compete with unemployed Americans in seeking for demeaning jobs. Their unemployment statuses were

Malcom X Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Malcom X - Essay Example Malcolm X was an African-American who advocated for the rights of all the black people of American (Conyers & Smallwood 17). On the other hand, critics have also revealed plenty of negative things that he did in life, which I would like to find out the truth about from himself. I would like to meet Malcolm X in order to understand why he portrayed two contradicting characteristics, even if all his efforts were directed towards equal treatment of whites and blacks. I would like to meet Malcolm X because of his courage in fighting for the cause of humanity. Not many people could stand out so strongly and openly against a government and accuse it of crimes against humanity. His courage is even more pronounced when one considers that he had no parents to look up to, having been orphaned at a young age. So courageous was he that he was once quoted as saying he would advocate for violence if a state of non-violence meant postponing having a solution to the problems faced by black Americans. Being a person who knew what he wanted early in life, he dropped out of junior school after he was told by a white teacher that his ambition of practicing law in the future was not realistic for blacks (Conyers & Smallwood 33). His commitment to the right treatment of black people in America is worth admiring. After dropping out of school at a young age, Malcolm X engaged in various jobs between the age of 14 to 21 years. It is during this time that he also engaged in wrongdoings such as robbery, drug dealing, racketeering and gambling. He also broke into houses and targeted wealthy white households. He was even denied entry into the military after he said he would steal guns to kill white Americans. It has also been reported that he engaged in sexual activities with other men in exchange of money (Conyers & Smallwood 41). I would like to find out from him why a person with so much ambition and the interests of the minority in his

Marketing report with customer experience Essay

Marketing report with customer experience - Essay Example It is without exaggerations that I like the services of this bank and I am willing, at no cost, to advise anyone who needs banking services to use the bank of America, since other than your money is being safeguarded, the customer services are suburb. Moreover, it is true by their clarity statement that they are committed to providing information needed by the customer to help them managing their accounts. Notably, this bank is perfecting in building trust and loyalty to its customer; nonetheless, such friendly services are often expected from the banking institutions. My Experience with Hospitality Institution: Hilton Adventure is sometimes good for having a varied knowledge about the world around an individual. There are different types of hotels in the United States, those that are considered cheap and those that are known or regarded to be classy. Hilton offers national and international hotel services; thus, it is expected to be classy and vibrant in service delivery. Without in quiring about it, there is a day I decided to visit the Hilton hotel in Illinois. It is true that, that hostel is classy, but it should be noted that it is hotel for those who know how its services are being offered. Otherwise, any new explorer to that hotel will only feel comfortable if he or she is a dignitary. While I was in the hotel, it looked as if each man for himself and God for us all. Not even one waiter or waitress directed me where to go or inquired what I intended from there. I felt fully out of place and the best thing for that time was to redirect myself outside that premise. It was an experience, not good for a public place. I did not expect such treatment from a hotel with such an immense national and international reputation. Personal services: Serenity Day Spa Many people have written attractive reviews about the Serenity Day Spa as being one of the â€Å"you can afford not to go† massage place in New Jersey. Therefore, some weeks ago, I did set to that pla ce with some of my friends. I opted for the place since a family friend had given me some voucher for the same place. The place became worth visiting right from the entrance and the final word is that I had a marvelous experience. At the reception, we were greeted with a warm smiling and accommodating face that ushered us into the waiting room that was complete with snacks as well as a faux fireplace. After about five minutes, each of us was taken to the treatment or massage rooms that were nicely decorated with dim lights, gentle music, and heated beds. The lady who provided to massage me was well trained since I personally felt that she did her work perfectly. Just like my experience, my colleagues also appreciated the massage they were offered in their respective rooms; thus, it is worth concluding that the Serenity Day Spa is a place for real massage. Application of Customer Relationship Management Strategy in the above Scenarios Customer relationship management (CRM) is practic es that traditionally involve sales activities, customer care, marketing, and technical support. Some organizations especially that deal with different aspects of business often incorporate all the Customer relationship management (CRM) strategies in handling their customers in that they separate customers from the accounts receivable functions (Bligh and Turk, 2004). Additionally, the current approach of Customer relation

Business Communication and ICT Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words - 1

Business Communication and ICT - Essay Example Contrary to this widely held notion, most messages are communicated through nonverbal clues. Empirical research conducted on this topic suggests that almost 90% of meaning of a message is transmitted in nonverbal forms. Verbal as well as non verbal communications stimuli are critical when transacting business. The two may determine its success or failure in equal measure. Nonverbal communication forms an integral part of communication within businesses. Most businesses utilize the following elements of nonverbal communication: eye contact, gestures, facial expression, appearance and dressing, posture, and written communication. Nonverbal communication underlines the power relationships in the business setting. The key function of nonverbal communication is to facilitate relationships within the business. These relationships incorporate managers, authorities, staff, and customers. The triumph of a business is pegged on effective communication between within these relationships (Goby 2 007, p.432). Goby (2007, p.432) concludes that, in business interactions, appropriate eye contact is critical in businesses since it helps the audience to build trust in the sender. In a business setting, the receivers of a message rely on visual clues in deciding whether to attend to or dismiss the message. Communicators should establish a close eye contact with their audiences as it promoted openness. Good eye contact also enhances building of trust between sender and receiver. People will unlikely buy products or services from a sales person who declines to make constant eye contact. The buyer may deem the seller to be unconvinced about the product and hence treat him/her suspiciously. Facial expressions also form part of nonverbal... This essay focuses on discussing the issue of nonverbal communication that expresses thoughts without using spoken words. Good communication is the groundwork of successful relationships, whether personal, professional, or even in business Nonverbal communication is a powerful tool of communication. This type of communication also utilizes clues that make the message appealing to the recipient as it is stated in the essay. Effective nonverbal communication has an immense contribution to businesses since it provides the parties with a means of interpreting their thoughts and attitudes. Employees within a business engage in frequent communication with its clients, suppliers, personnel, government personnel, and the media. The researcher discusses that Information Communications and Technologies that are a main focus of the second part of the essay enhance the ability of businesses to reduce transaction costs while improving speed and dependability. It is also mentioned in the essay tha t such communication type also cuts down on inefficiencies arising from poor coordination between firms in the value chain hence extracting highest value from transactions. Information Communications and Technologies today also avail effective communication tools for communication between managers, employees, and clients. In conclusion, the researcher mentiones that when well integrated, ICTs has the potential of improving the firm’s performance in terms of amplified market share, extended product range, and tailored products for clients.

Strategic Proposals To Enhance The Future Of Asia-sports Essay

Strategic Proposals To Enhance The Future Of Asia-sports - Essay Example Ice Hockey had been in existence since the 18th century when it was first played on frozen lakes and ponds in Western Europe. During the 19th century, Hockey began to take shape and standardize rules in the 1870s and was first formally played in Kingston, Ontario, Canada in 1885 as the first ice hockey league. From Eastern Canada, Hockey spread to Western Canada, Northern USA and across to Scandinavian and Northern European countries. The growth of hockey was due to two factors. Firstly, hockey was viewed as a spectator and team participation sport. The fast pace and exciting sport faced competition from a variety of other popular spectator sports. Asia-sports is an established private company with the majority of shares and decision-making power held by Shane Weir and Bill Gribble, 30 percent each. A Hong Kong capital venture company holds 20 percent of shares whilst 10 percent of shares are awarded to the executive director, Tom Barnes. Thirty shareholders hold the remaining 20 percent of shares. However, the financial resources of the company are limited to the contributions of the two majority shareholders and executive director, Tom Barnes. Tom Barnes and his assistant, Keith Fong who contracts out secretarial support, handle day-to-day operations of the company. Volunteers of hockey league members and their families also support Asia-sports. Figure 1 shows the exponential growth of the annual event over the past six years as the tournament. Throughout the past three years of operations, Asia-sports has established a niche position as the only provider of organized ice hockey tournaments and development programs in Hong Kong. The most popular product of the company, World Ice Hockey 5’s has seen substantial growth since its introduction in 1990’s as Hockey 5’s. The tournament consisted of five players instead of six and a smaller rink.

Ethnographic Perspectives on the Everyday Assignment

Ethnographic Perspectives on the Everyday - Assignment Example Effective communication can be lost as the worker tries to explain the problem and the manager is only hearing excuses as to why expectations cannot be met. Failures in communications can result in strained relationships between managers and workers as information is not given or processed correctly. The way in which workers and managers communicate with one another is often defined by the management style that a manager will adopt. The type of leadership that is established will have an effect on how a worker responds and is able to communicate to the manager. As well, the way in which an individual has experienced speaking with leadership will also have an effect on how they can communicate to a manager. Communications styles develop long before an individual enters the workforce, but they can be trained in order to provide for more effective communications (Young, 2009). Often times it is a lack of communications training that will position a worker so that are unable to give information to an employer. There are four basic types of management that will affect the way in which communication develops between a manager and an employee. The four types are autocratic, paternalistic, democratic, and laissez-faire. In an autocratic type of management, information is proprietary and all decisions are made by the manager. A paternalistic manager will make decisions upon the basis of what is best for the employees. Through good relationships with employees, this type of manager acts as a guardian for their interests. In a democratic style of management the manager will allow employees a voice in the decision making process with discussions and a fairly free flow of information allowing for some equality within the groups and teams of the organization. In the laissez-faire form of management, the manager avoids his responsibilities and the employees end up picking up duties

Reflective portfolio Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Reflective portfolio - Essay Example Personally, I opted to volunteer with the National Society of clean Air (NSCA) organization. It is an organization that enhances the protection of environment, and advocates for clean air in the world. Its main objective is to see reduced pollution of land, air, water, noise and other harmful contaminants. In my entire time of volunteering, I was able to create a significant impact on various communities through the creation of awareness on the importance of keeping our environment healthy. Communities in which I served were able to understand the importance of vegetation cover and disposing of wastes in an environmentally friendly manner. The planet is contaminated and without any environmental efforts to return to its natural state then people will perish over time. Our environment is suffering from the impacts of global warming. There is a need to reduce the amount of green house gases emitted into the air through the adoption of cleaner production technologies and increasing on t he vegetation cover. Evaluating the contribution of volunteering in meeting the organization objective Support from volunteers and organization leadership are fundamental in the success of an organization (Warner et al 2011, p.391). Without the two, then successful movements in sentiment transformation in various levels such as political, personal or professional cannot thrive. In order for the continual culture of improvements environmentally, volunteers at the community level are an essential commodity. Volunteers are effective in providing adequate service and remarkably efficient in reducing the organization spending costs. They always offer their services free of charge (Levine & Agostino 2010, p.711). However, because of their increased numbers, organizations have not been able to accommodate them. Non-profit organizations such as National Society of clean Air have been able to utilize skilled volunteers in meeting the needs of the community and meet its goals and objectives. Volunteers in environmental organization have been at the forefront advocating for Natural resource management (Measham &Barnett 2008, p.538). They are tasked by the organization to pass information to the community on the importance of managing their resources effectively. This is through the development of brochures that have information on natural resource management and holding campaigns where communities are able to air their views. The interaction between the community and volunteers enable an organization to identify loopholes that exists and come up with strategies that can enable them fix the problem. Through volunteering, the volunteers have been able to acquire necessary skills that make them sell like hot cake in the job market. Some have become environmental activists. They advocate for policies that will enhance the improvement and point fingers at those organizations that are not operating in an environmental sound manner. The volunteers in the organization involve th emselves in activities such as botanical specimen collection to enhance their understanding of ecology. They also involve themselves in monitoring and evaluation programs. This develops their mind in criticizing where things are not right. Through the volunteers, the organization has been able to achieve its aim of protecting the environment and ensuring that the air individuals’ breath is clean. Through sensitization, the community and other stakeholders have

Operatiom Process of Kfc Essay Example for Free

Operatiom Process of Kfc Essay Throughout the industry of fast-food, there were so many organisations which gained power and title for them, such as McDonald, Pizza Hut, Burger King, Pizza Domino, etc. In the list of these successful fast-food organisations, KFC is also one of the best organisation which gained their title and power for more than 80 years. KFC is a chain of fast food restaurants and first established known as Yum! Brands. However, the organisation name has been change since 1952. Until now, KFC – Kentucky Fried Chicken is the third largest fast-food organisation in the world. KFC has more than 14,000 outlets and in more than 80 countries around the world, serving about 12 million customers each day. (KFC Franchise Opportunity, 2007) PART 1 II – BUILDING BLOCKS: First of all, we need to analyze the general process of KFC. For the customer’s order, customer can have many choices to order food and meal from KFC. They can choose to dine in KFC restaurant which the process was order food, pay for food, eating food and leave. Or customer may order for delivering with fast or normal service, for a family’s meal or a party. More convenient, if customer is driving car, they can choose whether to park the car then dine in the restaurant or buying food by the fast service of KFC. * KFC general restaurant layout: KFC’s restaurant layout also has helped the organisation. In order to have a good layout, KFC’s purpose was planning and arrangement of all machines, utilities, staff room, kitchen, customer service areas, material storage areas, aisles, restrooms, internal walls, offices, and children area, which aim for the good flow of materials and customer. Moreover, also need to consider about the time, for example, demand for food of customer may high during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Parents may choose the KFC restaurant for running a birthday parties for their children on Saturday or Sunday and some other different event. By understanding the important of time and location, management of KFC can determine what size or how big their outlets should be in order to appropriate on each different circumstance and environment condition. * Value Added: The capacity of KFC restaurant which means how big the restaurant should be and where it should be locate is also important and contribute greatly to their operating management. If their outlets locate in a good place and got many good conditions for them such as skill labor, good supplier, high business climate or populated areas, their operating process will get started easier and more effectively. 4/ WORKFORCE: KFC has a slogan for their employees were that â€Å"makes more friends, earn some cash†.

The Effects of International Business Strategy in emerging Markets

The Effects of International Business Strategy in emerging Markets The increase in the continuous growth of the emerging markets, in particular the four major countries Brazil, China, India, and Russia, are the largest emerging markets (LEMs) which face challenges and offers immense opportunities to the international business growth however in the recent times it has shown an increasingly fierce competitiveness internationally of these economies now pose a challenge for the economies of the world. The challenges are evident in the form of increase in the commodity prices, rising food cost, growing outward investment and acquisition the largest emerging markets firms, with its direct impact on insecurity in jobs and growing inequality of income in developed and developing nations hence creating a need for restructuring the international institutions to reflect the shifting balance of economic power in the world economy. The growing recession in the west and the reliance on selective protectionism on a rise are impacting the prospects of the emerging economies of the world. Theoretical aspect This is research aims at formulating the scope of the international strategy by analysing the current situation of the economys and the theories applied by different theorist on the emerging nation in the past taking into consideration the degree of their effectiveness into account and postulating new perspective and dimension to it. The analysis of the early phase of the market emergence, Institutional theory helps in comprehending the impact on the enterprise strategies this is due to the strong influence of the government in the emerging economys to that of developed economies . the role of institutional theory is reviewed in context to the other theories and their interactions in understanding the the emerged and the developed market economies. Institutional theory This theory emphasizes on the influence of surrounding system organisation that shapes the social and organisational behaviour(scott 1995). The important role of an institution in a economy is to reduce information and transaction cost by building a a stable structure to facilitate interaction bye reducing uncertainty .Suhomlinova (1999) found that government institutions influence had a negative impact on Russian enter-prise reform, Lau (1998) suggested that political and market pressures were the institutional constraints faced by chief execu-tives in Chinese enterprise hence this theory would help in assessing the social barrier and interference pattern in the emerging market economy. Transaction cost in emerging economies Transaction cost economics studies the firm-environment interface through a contractual or ex-change-based approach (Williamson, 1975). This aspect plays an integral part as the rational governance choice requires a trade-off, at the margin, between the transaction costs associated with the market mode, a firms need for control, and the governance costs of hierarchy which in most of the emerging economies is high hence Choi, Lee, and Kim (1999) hypothesized that measurement and enforcement are two critically important transaction costs in emerging economies. In a country where the price system does not accurately provide signals for efficient resource allocation, measurement costs should be high. Similarly, in a country where official discretion rather than the rule of law defines property rights, enforcement costs will be high (La Porta, Lopez-de-Silanes, Shlei-fer, Vishny, 1997). This aspect has a important role to play in the emerging economies for international business. Resource based perspective The resource based view has argued on a primary concern, why do firms differ and how they achieve and sustain competitive advantage. Penrose (1959) argued that heterogeneous capabilities give each firm its unique character and are the essence of competitive advantage. This is another dimension for the research as to how do we strategize and enter the makets of these emerging economies Empirical analysis Research on strategy in this field of emerging economies is difficult on several grounds as the theory postulated for the developed economies may not apply for the emerging economies, with the empirical hence researchers do find it difficulty in data collection sampling measuring the variable for example the firms performance with the variety of variable changing. The combination of quantitative and qualitative method is the most reliable and relevant method of data collection and analysis. Sampling and data collection Sampling approach has to be innovative pertaining to the changing economies for example the general data source like telephone directory could become outdated rapidly. The data which may be generally collected from a company may not necessarily be consistent witht he data possessed by the government authority hence there requires a collaboration of different studies to analyse and find the right method for data collection as questionnaire, surveys are dependent on the postal service. Collaborative projects with local researchers using face-to-face interviews may be a key means of gaining access to data sources (Lee Miller, 1999). Henderson and Cock-burn (1994) used quantitative questionnaires, qual-itative interviews, and multiple informants to increase the validity and reliability of their measures of organizational competence, variable measurement do pose a number of problems that present a difficulty in strategy research in emerging economies. Mixed methodology In assessing the empirical aspect relating to the research of the growth and the different attributes to international business in emerging countries, the approach to it has to be on broader perspective hence it requires a collaboration of quantitative which primarily deals with the numeric data collection converting it into statistical form and then evaluating it to derive result and the qualitative measure of analysis which aims at understanding the meaning exploring it further by means of case study , questionnaire surveys to and then analyse the response, both method in proper coordination would provide the insight in understanding the complexity of the emerging market and the factor effecting international business. Conclusion The areas of research is focussed to the (BRIC) nations Brazil Russia India China with downfall of the economy which is at the brinks of pulling itself out of recession the key to overcome lies with this countries hence the objective of the research is to evaluate the current aspects of International business strategy applied to these emerging economies.

Deviance In Society Essay -- essays research papers

What does it mean to say, â€Å"deviance is socially defined?†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Deviance is defined as, â€Å"The recognized violation of cultural norms.† Deviance is an act of rebellion against set of rules, and expected behavior established by a certain society. Deviance is defined in many different ways. It is depended on the norms of the society, and region. Individuals become deviant when people label their actions as deviance. It depends on how that certain society defines deviance on individuals. The establishment of rules, and breaking rules in society is determined by strong social powers. This event leads to social inequality in society. â€Å"The Saints and the roughnecks†, are an example to labeling individuals as deviants, and it shows how social power causes inequality. Deviance appears in all likes of society. Deviance has many meanings to unconformity on a cultural norm. It depends on that the state of society, and its region. Prostitution is a profession that has existed since the beginning of society. Prostitution is viewed as a sleazy way of making money. The United States outlaws this profession, because it degrades females. Yet it is legal, and accepted in the city of Las Vegas, Nevada. Residents in Nevada view prostitution, as any other job.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Individuals become deviants when society decides to call the acts deviance. It is a labeling process put on the person. An example of deviant behavior would be the teen youth wearing ba...

Primitive Mans Relationship with Fire and the Environment :: Environment Environmental Pollution Preservation

Primitive Man's Relationship with Fire and the Environment Common knowledge holds it that primitive man was a being barely more developed than the ape, existing without culture, innovation, or technological prowess. This belief focuses especially on homo erectus, an ancestor of man who lived from about 2 million to roughly 200,000 years ago. It is commonly believed that h. erectus was a creature existing in technological stasis, without the ability to advance his existence through innovation, and void of culture. This type of thinking could quickly be altered, though, if recent discoveries hold true. Recent evidence points to a distinct possibility that h. erectus may have been the first ancestor of man to harness the power of fire. Such a finding would greatly alter the current system of beliefs in regard to the evolution of man and the status of man's ancestors during the time of h. erectus. These findings would indicate that h. erectus did have some culture, and some innovative skill that allowed him to control his environment. The eviden ce supporting the taming of fire by h. erectus is not beyond reproach, though. In fact, it has come under heavy questioning. A desire for even stronger evidence could eventually dispel the notion that this primitive version of man could control fire, and allow for maintenance of the current belief that man did not truly evolve into a being with any type of culture until the existence of homo sapiens. Up until the year 2000, a great deal of evidence surrounding man's use and control of fire indicated that such technology probably did not appear until roughly 200,000 years ago. The implication that h. sapiens was the first in the line of mankind to control fire was supported by evidence found at a site in Zhoukoudian, China. While it had been believed for some time that Zhoukoudian was the first site of controlled fire, evidence found through more exhaustive research indicates otherwise. There are no hearths at the site in China. Nor are there any food remnants. Such evidence leads to the belief that the burnt bones found at the site are probably the result of a natural fire (Wuethrich). The lack of strong evidence supporting the site as one in which man's control of fire is displayed supported the belief that h. erectus lacked technological prowess and culture. The next best candidate for the site of man's first documented control of fire was a collapsed sea cave in Menez Dregan, France.

Richer Sounds - Competition Essay -- Business and Management Studies

Competition Competitive forces are the pressures put on a Business by other organizations which are competing to increase their share of the same market. The main competitors for Richer Sounds are broken into 4 main groups: 1. Large chain stores. E.g. Curry’s, Dixon’s and Comet 2. Small specialist shops 3. Large online electronic suppliers. E.g. QED-UK 4. Large online general supplier. E.g. Amazon and Tesco. These Businesses’ compete in many ways. The 3 main ways are Advertising, Lower Pricing/sales and through Market shares. With competition like that, Richer Sounds obviously has to work hard, and they seem to be doing well. Richer Sounds are constantly researching the sales prices of their competitors, so that they are able to reflect this knowledge on their sales prices, and come up with new strategies. I am now going to show you a SWOT Analysis I produced, for Richer Sounds. A SWOT Analysis is basically a diagram showing the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats of a Business. The strengths and weaknesses of a Business are internal; this means that Richer Sounds would have control of them. Opportunities and threats are external, this means that Richer Sounds can not control this, but must respond to it. Where there is a threat, there is a strength. Where there is a weakness, there is also an opportunity. Richer Sounds could respond to competitive forces in many ways. To respond to these competitive forces they wou...

Methyl acetate uses

In many applications, Eastman methyl acetate can be an effective replacement for acetone and other fast-evaporating solvents. Strength?assay Methanol Water Acidity as acetic acid color, PC's Some common cleaning applications include: universal cleaner LOW-VOCE and environmental cleaners Aerosol carburetor cleaners Paint gun cleaners Cleaners for printing inks Table 1 Sales specifications Property Eastman methyl acetate can be used alone or In easily blended formulations to optimize cleaning efficiency. Because methyl acetate is miscible with most organic aerospace, marine, and industrial.Eastman methyl acetate methyl acetate, high purity 96. 0% mint. 2. 5% Max. 1. 5% Max. 0. 15% Max. 5 Max. 99. 5% mint. 0. 10% Max. 0. 05% Max. Cleaners for industrial wipes Regulatory and VOCE-exempt status Concerns for work place safety and the environment have led to the deselecting of chlorinated solvents in many applications. In the United States, methyl acetate was added to the list of compounds excluded from the definition of volatile organic compound (VOCE) on the basis that these compounds have been determined to eve negligible photochemical reactivity.Methyl acetate is relatively nontoxic, nonrestrictive, and readily biodegradable, making it useful in environmentally friendly formulations. Fast evaporation rate Fast drying is often a key performance requirement in cleaning applications. A slow-drying solvent can impede the cleaning process, adding additional labor cost. In addition, slow-drying solvents can attract airborne contaminants and leave residues that negate the effectiveness of the cleaning processes. Using Eastman methyl acetate in cleaning applications (Continued)Table 2 shows physical properties of methyl acetate versus other fast-evaporating solvents. Methyl acetate evaporates faster than MEEK and ethyl acetate, allowing its use as a replacement for those solvents in applications where VOCE reduction is required. Methyl acetate is similar to acetone in eva poration rate, VOCE exemption, and non-HAP status but offers a higher flash point and hydrophobic property. The hydrophobic nature of methyl acetate can be a key performance criteria in cleaning applications where moisture-related problems can damage or corrode parts, eating to defects or rejects.

Principles of Personal Development Essay

Standards that influence the way adult social care job roles are carried out. Codes of Practice set out the criteria against which providers are assessed by. They also describe the standards of conduct and practice with which workers must carry out their activities and ensure that what they do is competent and consistent with the values of their employer. These standards are how registrants’ ‘ï ¬ tness to practice’ is determined. For a care worker to work in a certain profession, they have to register with their particular Professional Council and then work to the Codes of Practice which they deem ï ¬ t. Not following their Code of Practice could result in them being taken of the register and no longer allowed to work in that role. Reflecting on work activities is an important way to develop own knowledge and skills. Reflection on your own practice is important because it allows you to assess what you are doing well, identify areas where you might like or maybe need more training or guidance in to ensure you are performing to the best you can, and are meeting all standards and expectations within the elderly house policies and procedures. Reflecting on your practice can enhance and improve your confidence and self esteem because you can look at what you are doing well, the things you have learnt and achieved and feel good about yourself especially if you have done something with ease that you used to find difficult, if you have done something you never did well in or something that you have never tried before. This then gives you confidence to continue working well and to aim to try other new things or to use what new skills or knowledge you have gained in your practices. During the activity you improve you learning by asking you supervisor/senior. You learn from others people strategies. Find ways to reflect your self in your activity. Reflection, which is learning through experience, is not a new concept. As humans, we naturally reflect on our surroundings and experiences. It is a learning tool that will help us improve our skill and develop our knowledge and practice. Also it is important to find your strengths and weaknesses so that you can develop and improve on them, so you can make your weakness your strengths. Reflecting on your self is a complex activity that requires the individual to develop a set of skills. When you reflect you stand back and think of a situation or problem, gain a new perspective of something, make sense of our experiences and construct meaning and knowledge that directs actions in practice. Use evidence to help decide on decisions. Ways to ensure that personal attitudes or beliefs do not obstruct the quality of work. The best way to ensure that personal attitudes or beliefs don’t obstruct the quality of work is to be dedicated to excellence. Personal attitudes can be changed through education. That is an important way. It helps to develop a good work ethic. How learning activities can develop knowledge, skills and understanding. How a learning activity has improved own knowledge, skills and understanding. The more you think and plan, the better you can do. Think things all the way through to a successful conclusion. Improving improved own knowledge, skills and understanding by reflecting on a situation I don’t have a situation that I really want to share, but I spend a great deal of time reflecting on life from various perspectives from the logical/intellectual to the mystical/muse. The two quotes below are on a list that I keep in my desk. They remind me why I must make time, even if it appears I’m doing something else, to reflect. * â€Å"Think left and think right and think low and think high. Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try!† ― Dr. Seuss * â€Å"The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.† ― Albert Einstein Feedback from others has developed own knowledge, skills and understanding The example is comments, critics, suggestions. If someone know what to do to this feedback, that person already know what to do next. That was a development by feedback How a personal development plan can contribute to own learning and development Definition of personal development plan Personal development planning (PDP) is the process of creating an action plan based on awareness, values, reflection, goal-setting and planning for personal development within the context of a career, education, relationship or for self-improvement. Who can be involved in the PDP process Typically, each employee’s line manager should be responsible for the individual employee’s PDP. * Managers may need appropriate training to ensure they can manage PDPs effectively. Developing these skills can be built into the manager’s own PDP. * The most senior employees – and those whose performance has the most impact on the performance of the business – may benefit from an external mentor Sources of support for own learning and development There are many sources of support that you can access and many different ways that you can help yourself, when developing your practice. The appraisal or supervision system in your workplace can be a good starting point. This will help you to identify areas of your practice that need to be developed, and to plan to use opportunities for training and development. Some employers provide appraisal at six-monthly or 12-monthly intervals, but supervision should be at least once a month. This gives you a good opportunity to use the experience and knowledge of your supervisor to help you plan how to move forward in your practice. Benefits of using PDP to identify ongoing improvements in own knowledge and understanding Some advantages of taking a personal development approach to your work are: Gaining a clearer focus to your learning. Helping to keep yourself motivated. A better understanding of how you learn and how to improve your performance. More enjoyment and less stress from your learning as you become consciously skilled. More awareness of how to apply your learning to new problems and contexts.

Essay: “Man is a social animal” Essay

Society is a group of people living together for a longer time fulfilling various needs of the people. Society is the product of social relationship among individuals. They come in contact with each other through the process of give and take. A human relationship exists for the fulfillment of human needs. Within a society therefore patterns of groups on the basis of likeness and differences. Humans are social animals dependent on society for food, protection, education, comfort and various other services which the society provides. People satisfy themselves fulfilling their needs and satisfying themselves being a member of the society. The society fulfills the needs through relationship. So society has got human interactions. Interaction means the social relationship among members of the society and they are closely related and bounded together for the fulfillment of their needs. The society is organized by the process of interdependence among the groups and the institutions. Society is a permanent group and one can be a member throughout the life and society lives for an indefinite period for a never ending period. As an ongoing system, each society must fulfill certain common needs. These needs are independent of the particular kind of society and are therefore, primary needs. They define the necessary conditions for the existence of any society irrespective of its location and time space. Those having to do with the individuals in society viewed as physical organisms. The first kind of needs arises from the fact that a society is composed of separate organisms. Without these organisms that is, without a population it could not exist anymore than an organism could exist without cells. It must provide nourishment to its population and must also take provision for the protection of the members against natural dangers and enemies. The very introduction of group cooperation, however, creates new needs that refer not to the individual alone but to the maintenance of the society. These additional are peculiar to human society. The human groups meet their needs by cultural transmission. Human beings as social animals relying upon learning, produce an accumulation of culture, through the transmission of knowledge and attitudes and a system of arbitrary symbols. In a society, man is social animal who depends on other members of the society in every field of life. Humans are social animals cannot live alone in a society and also cannot fulfill his all needs without the help of others. It is natural that he has to contact with his other fellow beings to  fulfill his all needs. So it is obvious that a man is social animal.

Nebobites Ethical Dilemma Essay

This case involves a small public traded company named Nebobites, which manufactures dog treats. Jenny O. , CPA, is the new Assistant Controller for the Nebobites’ company, and her job is to review and audit the financial statements for the 2012 year. While reviewing the financial statements, Jenny noticed the company’s Allowance for Doubtful Accounts balance seemed significantly higher than in the past. This increase in the Allowance account was due to the Bad Debt Expense estimation being based off 3% of net credit sales instead of the prior years’ estimate of 1. %. The increase in Bad Debts expense as a result of the increase in estimate materially affected the 2012 earnings. However, 2012 had been a great year for earnings, so the additional expense did not disturb the earnings growth trend Nebobites’ had experienced in the past. However, upon further research, Jenny could find no justification for the increase in the Bad Debt Expense estimate from 1. 5% of net credit sales to 3%. Jenny decides to approach her boss, the Controller, Maxwell Devious. He tells Jenny he is aware of the practice known as â€Å"income smoothing. Maxwell Devious says showing a steady growth in earnings was essential to keep the Nebobite stock price high as possible as the Smith family planned to sell-off a significant number of shares in early 2014. Jenny feels extremely uncomfortable with this practice, and she knows that this year’s financial statements will retain an overstated Bad Debt Expense estimate and more than likely result in an understated Bad Debt Expense estimate in 2013. 2. An ethical decision must be made by Jenny, because she is going to have to decide what is morally right or wrong. This fake presentation of increase in earnings will potentially affect every stakeholder involved with the company including their shareholders, creditors, management, employees and the customers. This faulty practice will leave an overstated Bad Debt Expense estimate for the year and more than likely result in an understated Bad Debt Expense estimate in 2013. Jenny needs to decide whether she thinks it is more important to look profitable to investors and appear to have greater wealth or is it more important to show creditors that they do not have sufficient funds to cover their debts. She also knows that Maxwell Devious, the Controller, has an employee profit sharing plan, a management bonus plan based on earnings, significant bank loans outstanding and is planning on raising funds through a bond issue in 2014; all of these are affected by the earnings for the year. 3. By deciding not to change the estimate back to the appropriate percentage of 1. 5%, it does single out individuals and the upper management group. These individuals that are Jenny’s superiors simply do not want her to make the adjustment because it is in their best interest (looking profitable & performance bonuses) and not in the company and its stakeholders’ best interest as a whole. It is also a legal violation because the company’s CEO and other top-level personnel should swear that all financial data for the company is relevant and accurate, and they knowingly defy corporate policies and the GAAP. 4. In this particular situation, Jenny is faced with a couple options; some of which are favorable, others not so much. Jenny can choose to abide by her scandalous boss, and decide to go along with the inappropriate change in estimate. This choice may blow over for the time being, but in the long run, Jenny and the company may be audited in the future exploiting their mistakes made in the 2012 financial statements. This could cause Jenny to be immediately terminated when the mistakes were finally found, as well as the possibility of jail time after an investigation and trial. Another possible route Jenny could take would be to report the inappropriate practices to an outsider’s attention, such as an external auditing firm. By doing so, she could save her job possibly for the time the company is being investigated, but may later be fired. Although she will eventually have to find a new job, this choice may save her from being in trouble with the law and potentially boost her chances of finding a new job due to her discovery at Nebobites. Another final option that I would see plausible in this situation would be to simply quit, if the Controller did not want to change the estimation and swear on the financial statements. The legal risk is too high in the case, and you do not want the downfall of Nebobites to be on your shoulders. 5. By deciding to go along with the inappropriate change in estimate, Jenny’s job may be safe for the time being, but in the long run, Jenny and the company may be audited in the future exploiting their mistakes made in the 2012 financial statements. This could cause Jenny to be immediately terminated when the mistakes were finally found, as well as the possibility of jail time after an investigation and trial. This is morally and legally wrong because she knowingly goes against corporate policies and the generally accepted accounting principles in order to reap the benefits. By reporting the inappropriate practices to an outsider’s attention, such as an external auditing firm, she could save her job possibly for the time the company is being investigated, but may later be fired. Although she will eventually have to find a new job, this choice may save her from being in trouble with the law and potentially boost her chances of finding a new job due to her discovery at Nebobites. By choosing this option, Jenny acts in a dignified and legal manner. She knows that she is doing what is right and is protecting stakeholders of the company. The other option of simply just resigning or quitting her position would not have much effect on the company. She is acting morally because she is not going along with the inappropriate practices of Nebobites, but she is not doing what is in the best interest for all stakeholders. The company will most likely find a new Assistant Controller for the operation who will go along with the unlawful scheme. This ultimately resulting in the downfall of the company, when Jenny could have prevented this and saved thousands of jobs by alerting an outside auditor. 6. By alerting an outside auditor to investigate this situation, Jenny does what is in the best interest for all stakeholders. This will eventually reveal the truth and allow shareholders to see the negative affect on stock prices, creditors can be informed on the debt situation of our company and be aware of the risk of dealing with us. Management will be disappointed with the actions of Jenny, in which they sacrificed their performance bonuses and will most likely fire her. The company will still have a chance to flourish, however, when the economy turns back around. By keeping the inappropriate estimate, Jenny will most likely be in the praises of her superiors for the bonuses they received; but, in the longer run, the company’s financial statements will be inaccurate and liabilities to creditors will go unpaid. Shareholders will actual lose more money and the company has the potential to go bankrupt any day if the economy does not take a sudden turn around. The top executives, as well as Jenny, should live in fear of being exploited of their misinterpretations and eventually will get caught up in severe legal trouble. If Jenny simply quit without seeking outside assistance from auditors, she is still acting in a somewhat immoral and illegal manner. This is because the stakeholders of the company will inevitably still be in serious trouble due to the deception of Jenny and the upper management of the Nebobites’ company. . I believe that it is in the best interest for Jenny to consult an outside auditing firm. Although it could potentially make her lose her job when her superiors are notified, it enlightens all stakeholders involved with the Nebobites’ company. The risk is too great if Jenny decides to leave the inappropriate estimate as is; she risks not only losing her job, bu t also risks going to jail, as well as losing her CPA license entirely. It is worth far more in life to be an honest and truthful person who looks out for others than it is to be a deceitful and uncaring.

BS1106 Business Environment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

BS1106 Business Environment - Essay Example some of the recurring costs that an airlines industry requires to survive. The airlines industry is a complex one. It is a high risk industry as is known after the incidents of 9/11, yet it is a highly lucrative industry with potential of high profits. Huge investments, high risks, squeezing profit margins, growing competition are some of the major barriers to entry in this industry. The global economic downturn has also severely affected the expansion of the airlines industry worldwide. As a result of decreasing profit margins and to consolidate their position, a major trend within the global airlines industry has been for companies to seek strategic alliances with other airlines and benefit from synergies in operations. The success of low cost airlines and the increasing airline alliances has in general resulted in contributing towards improvement in the airline industry (Datamonitor, 2005). With the opening of economies and market driven forces taking over the business prospects, the customer has become the real king in the airline industry. Now companies do everything possible to invite the customer towards them by offering them good bargains, club memberships, loyalty programmes, sumptuous meal and goodies on board. The customer relationship management (CRM) has to play a key role in managing and retaining the customer as the customer has become very demanding, and resorts to bargain prices before purchasing the ticket. The top 10 leading names which have successfully made use of this trend are shown in the table below; With more low cost airlines dotting the airspace, the industry is further reaching towards saturation. Brand name and frequent flier point programmes also play a role in the Airline industry1. An airline with a strong brand name and incentives can usually be enough to lure a customer (even if their prices are higher). The figure below lists some of main customer satisfaction determinants (Ipsos

Critically discuss the importance of corporate sponsorship in the Essay - 1

Critically discuss the importance of corporate sponsorship in the events industry - Essay Example A general analysis of the importance of corporate sponsorship in events to the audience reveals that the audience is often in a position to gain, but these gains can be both positive and negative for the parties involved. On the positive perspective, there is issuance of presents and gifts that corporate sponsors often bring with them to woo and reward the audience into and for attending the sponsored event. This is a crucial aspect in that the audience gets to interact with what the corporates have to offer in terms of services and goods through their attendance and sponsorship. Moreover, it offers the corporate an opportunity to market and promote their products, services to the society thereby tapping into potential markets. However, some of these corporates take advantage of the audience to run entertainment events or, in some cases, competitions. These competitions, which are held as raffles only indulge members of the audience, and they serve to entertain the audience and provi de a sense of reality in their interactions. However, this is not fully beneficial for the audience in that some institutions bring out their goods or services in the form of prototypes that they would like to test for the first time. The application of this strategy is usually to the disadvantage of the audience in that any side effects that come to be, only affect the audience, who are usually not informed. However, in some noble cases, the audience is notified of new products by the institution in question, which serves to their benefit in that they engage in a rare feat. Engaging in an event or getting to be part of the unveiling of a new product or service, although as a test product, is a crucial aspect for an audience as it serves as first-hand experience to cherish. Moreover, the service or product is usually free of charge, which means it works for all parties involved in terms of creating an image, as shall be seen later. Altogether, there remains discord towards the benef its and damages of sponsorship towards audiences and their wellbeing. The importance of corporate sponsorship can also be analysed from the perspective of the

State Tax Reform Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 17

State Tax Reform - Essay Example Investments in education and infrastructure have escalated. In response to the continuously weak economic performance of North Carolina, a significant change to the tax system has been proposed. According to research conducted by Civitas Institute, chaired by Arthur Laffer, it is claimed that a reduction of tax rates for the wealthy and the elimination of corporate tax will revive North Carolina’s economic performance and induce the creation of numerous job opportunities (Johnson, 2013). The Civitas/Laffer proposal would profoundly change North Carolinas tax framework by abolishing the personal income tax, franchise tax and corporate tax, which in aggregate generate 65 percent of the states income, and to a great extent supplanting this income with a higher sales tax that would apply to more products and services. In particular, the proposal would: first, abolish the personal income tax. Second, abolish the tax on corporate income (Johnson, 2013). Third, abolish the tax imposed on franchise business. Franchise businesses are businesses that benefit from already established brands and models by another organization. In California, the franchise tax is proposed to apply only to those franchise businesses incorporated within the State. The franchise tax is significant to the government since it is a source of revenue. The tax generates $ 650 million, thus the source of its significance. However, it is not as important as a corporate tax since the latter generates more revenue to the State government – $ 1.1 billion. Personal tax is the most important since it generates the highest amount of revenue to the government - $ 10.3 billion based on the fiscal period 2011-2012 (Johnson, 2013). Â  

Scope Risk Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Scope Risk - Essay Example The move towards innovation is necessary as it can be stated that innovation is more important than acquiring the name of best company in the world. The other trend i.e. making shift in global market is necessary as it is regarded as one of the fundamental needs of the organizations in attracting huge customers along with increasing sales (Project Management Institute, 2012). The successful completion of a project requires the involvement of clients and their conduct of activities efficiently. In this case, if there lays the involvement of several members, it can create hindrance in the success of the project. In order to complete projects in a timely fashion by balancing the needs, initially a proper planning of the project would be made along with determining the actual number of members to be included in the project team. Then, proper allocation of tasks relating to the project must be provided to the actual number of members for the purpose of fulfilling the need to freeze project scope in a timely fashion (Global Knowledge Training LLC, 2013). In the context of slower economic growth, one of the viable and valid trends that would emerge is the changing economic conditions of the global market. The fact can be supported with the happening of global recessions in previous few years. Similarly, in the background of shifting global markets, a viable and a valid trend of improving the sales target for future rather than focusing upon developing the existing position in the business market would emerge (Project Management Institute, 2012). Based on the above discussion, it can be affirmed that a few of the factors such as innovation, shift in global market and economic growth are the elements that bring considerable changes in the operations of business organizations and identification of various opportunities. As per my understanding,

Statistics for Managers Individual Work wk3 Essay

Statistics for Managers Individual Work wk3 - Essay Example For instance, an automobile industry can analyze the likelihood of a parts failure in an automobile. Discrete random variable is delineated as a variable in which all the outcomes cannot be broken into smaller measurements and are also mutually exclusive. It exists on either infinitely or finitely countable continuum. Continuous random variable is delineated as infinitely unaccountable probability space. Despite the fact that each event is peculiar, it is not possible to measure the probability of a single event given that it can be further divided into smaller parts. (Lind, & Mason, 2000) This is a random variable because its value is determined by chance, and is unknown in future. An analysis of discrete random variables will be utilized in a supply industry company in which defects can be measured via 100 invoices. This sample size allows discrete random variables as. In addition, process mapping allows multiple phases of data analysis to have visual work force. The possible values this random variable can assume are the values of each card in the deck: two, three, four, and so on. Because these values are distinct, indivisible amounts, the random variable is discrete. This helps balance customer gaps and assure quality assurance to the highest degree. This information can be assessed to use as data to trigger sales in every department. An analysis of continuous random variables is measuring the time with customers coming and entering the retail at a specific time. Continuous random variables can be utilized in Wal-Mart in which customers are coming in 3 minutes 32 seconds of 5 minutes 17.6 seconds. This is crucial to quantify the data in essence to have a visual display of the work that is being conducted. For instance, suppliers and vendors can look at this data to analyze when customers are coming at the right time. Inputs can be utilized to include process activity in which customers

Personal art statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Art - Personal Statement Example As time passed by, I realized that my work is the only means for me to contribute to the society I live in and I came to wonder what my work could do for people and how it could make their lives better. Whereas helping people as an artist is a great thing, it was not enough to meet my purpose of life. I have often wondered about the gap between art and real life, and I wish to make the lives of the people better through art. Art and Interior design are closely related and the latter helps me in bridging the gap between art and real life. In other words, my artistic life as an interior designer can help me accomplish my dream to make the lives of the people better. Thus, I have chosen the study of Interior design, because I believe that I can help people as an interior designer. Interior design is closely connected with fine art and I am greatly excited to learn it. In fact, learning interior design gives me more pleasure and satisfaction than that of fine art. However, I greatly believe that my fine art background helps me to be more creative and successful in interior design. My great interest in drawing has helped me in developing a positive mental framework towards interior design. Like most other kids, I used to draw and paint during my childhood.

Women and Leadership Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Women and Leadership - Essay Example Women were first hindered by rules that made them under the shadows for years. Women were blocked by laws passed by the government that is why they cannot move smoothly in the society especially in the government posts (Eagly and Carli 3). However, this problem was given some actions through changing some laws but another problem evolved, the glass ceiling. This problem was long been a challenge to women in the workplace. Women were allowed to take posts however, they were not allowed to acquire higher posts (4). However, as the society moves toward modernity, the barriers against women also moved forward that concrete wall and glass ceiling were no longer the main problems but only parts of the bigger picture. Women now face the so-called â€Å"labyrinth† wherein the barriers are vague but there. These kinds of problems are collective and have higher effect on women’s improvement because the problems have chain reaction (Eagly and Carli 6). Women can now attain higher posts but the path to be taken is harder compared to men. Women are faced with more difficult standard than men because employers consider other factors compared to men who are applying for higher posts (8). These are the reasons why women take longer time to attain higher posts compared to men both in the workplace and in the government. The hindrances against women on acquiring leaderships still exist however, more research that disproves the high difference between men and women leadership characteristics are coming out. According to Eagly and Carli (47), the differences that people claim about the differences between men and women are just a show for hindering women in attaining higher positions. Eagly and Carli believe that women and men have only slight leadership skill differences and women are much capable of handling heavy positions in the society. On the other hand, Wilson (n.p.) strongly believes that women lead differently compared to men. Wilson’s book,

Teaching, planning and learning Essay Example for Free

Teaching, planning and learning Essay The school first opened its doors in 1958 with only 10 teachers who looked after a total of 222 pupils at that time. The new school was created from  several all-age schools from around the area of the small agricultural village. In 1976, the school was extended and now has over 800 mixed gender pupils age 11-16, mostly from working class backgrounds. Please refer to Appendix 1 on page 14, for a table that shows the attainment of pupils between 2011 and 2012. The Head Teacher states that the school will continually seek opportunities to develop personal, social, moral codes and independent thinking and learning skills that the pupils can apply to any given situation. The Ofsted Inspection Report (October 2012), regards this as a good school and that the recently appointed Head Teacher has given a vision for the future and has implemented considerable change in a short time. This has resulted in rapid, all round improvement within the school. The teaching group in which I will be discussing and evaluating in this paper is Year 8 Set 3 at KS3 level, in this class there are 30 pupils and two teaching assistants as well as the teacher. There is a strong gender balance and behaviour is okay overall. Pupils were previously ranging from level 5A to 5C and they were all expected to hit their target grades which tend to increase by 3 sublevels leaving them at a level 6A to 6C respectively by the end of the academic year. In this class, there is one SEN pupil with hearing difficulties and two vulnerable pupils who require extra support from the special support staff. Rationale Over a sequence of four lessons teaching fractions, percentages and decimals, a wide range of methods were used in relation to the particular group of pupils and the learning objectives. The structure of the lessons was taught generally in three parts, which consisted of a through the door starter, a main teaching and learning section and a plenary. At the beginning of each lesson, I settle the pupils down by telling them a mathematical joke related to the topic I am about to teach or by doing a  maths magic trick, which might include mental maths or using a calculator. Please refer to Appendix 2, for an example of a joke/magic trick and why this can be useful. I would then explain how to complete the starter if they had not already started to do so or if it was not self-explanatory. After the starter, I implement a literacy element into the lesson by selecting a few pupils to read the learning objectives out loud then they also have to write it into their books underlined with the date and level. I also display to them how I expect them to progress throughout the lesson using good, better and excellent as targets but I do not get them to copy this into their books as that has proven be time consuming. Bellamy (1999) supports the idea of learning objectives to be appropriately differentiated. Teacher praise is one tool that can be a powerful motivator for pupils. Surprisingly, research suggests that praise is underused in both general and special-education classrooms (Brophy, 1981; Hawkins Heflin, 2011; Kern, 2007), therefore I try to use praise as often as I can to reinforce good behaviour and build strong relationships with the pupils. I use an interesting method for questioning pupils whereby I have a jar of different coloured lollypop sticks with the pupils’ names on, so when I wish to ask a question it appears to be fair, random and it keeps the pupils engaged because I sometimes place the lollypop sticks back in the jar so the same person may get asked a question more than once. Sometimes, I might ask an open-ended question and aim it at the whole of the class, then ask the pupils to think about it independently or discuss it with the person sitting next to them, these questions usually involve problem solving. As well as questioning, there are several other methods, which can be incorporated into the planning of progress throughout a lesson for example, the use of mini white boards and traffic light cards, also getting the pupils to write a response in their books about how they feel about a certain topic. During this sequence of four lessons, there would usually be around 10-15  minutes of me teaching and the pupils listening, whereby the pupils may take notes and copy examples then the pupils would work quietly and independently to illustrate understanding. For those pupils who require a little more explaining, this would be a chance for them to receive some individual teaching from a member of staff in the class. I communicate to the teaching assistants when I would like them to walk around the class or hand out worksheets. Tracking pupils’ progress over time to inform the planning of teaching and planning teaching that is matched to pupils needs is key. Please refer to Appendix 3, for further guidance from LGfL – Learning Grid for Lancashire (2014) for Assessing Pupils Progress (APP) in Mathematics. Whilst the pupils are working independently, I would walk around the class systematically checking for progress making sure the pupils are setting their work out correctly and achieving the correct answers and also checking what speed they are working at, as some pupils work a lot quicker than others in this class. Therefore, I always have an extension worksheet or an additional task available of a slightly more challenging level. Rooney (2008) supports the need to provide extension work for the more able that will engage and challenge them, whereas Kompany (2005) believes pupils should be accelerated to the appropriate level earlier. I have used self-assessment and peer-assessment in these lessons whereby the pupils mark their own work or they swap books with the person sat next to them. I believe paired work for tasks and games is beneficial as the pupils can learn from each other. According to Ofsted, good assessment practice in mathematics includes: day-to-day assessment, marking and feedback, and the use of assessment to set targets. BECTA (2004) suggests that, using interactive whiteboards to enrich the teaching of mathematics and assist in managing the learning environment can be achieved by; the display and review of learning objectives and key vocabulary, save screens and move between them, remind pupils of materials covered in previous lessons, set up group work and discussion tasks, use the ‘hide and reveal’ features of the IWB software to work through the steps of a solution, provide a ‘count down’ for timed activities. I make use of ICT regularly in my lessons, whether it is a basic PowerPoint; one slide with the learning objectives on to save time; and interactive games on the white board. I always try to include a real life example into every topic I teach and this particular topic definitely has a functionality element to it as fractions, percentages and decimals are used in every day life even at the age of 12, the topic also links to other subjects such as science, food technology and business studies. As a plenary, I have used several methods, which I have found to be successful with this class for example exit cards or a GCSE exam question from previous papers. I believe that they get a real sense of achievement when they manage to complete a GCSE exam question because they are only in Year 8 and they are able to answer an exam question that they might get asked to complete in Year 11. I follow the schools marking policy using; WWW – what went well, EBI – even better if and MRI – my response is. This gives the pupils an opportunity to respond to feedback. Please refer to Appendix 4, to view an example of my marking and feedback. Pupils’ are expected to respond in the MRI section demonstrating communication between the teacher and the pupil. Evaluation Lessons in this school have sixty-minute duration; therefore I believe the three-part lesson structure to be substantial. Because of the age of the pupils, I found the mathematical jokes and maths magic tricks highly effective in the sense that it settled the pupils down at the beginning of the lesson, it helped to build a good relationship with the pupils also creating a little bit of fun and something to look forward to within the lesson, which in turn lead to better behavior and attitudes towards mathematics as a subject. It is also useful for practicing mental maths for improving skills like using a calculator. This approach may not be as  successful with a Year 11 class. In my experience, I have found it to be more effective to have the starter readily available for the pupils, either on their desks or on the board so that they are engaged as soon as they walk through the door and they are not waiting for pupils that are late. Please refer to Appendix 5, for an example of a st arter that is related to the topic in question and I usually display on the smart-board. Of course, starters do not have to be related to the topic all the time but in this case I used my starters to recap what we had covered in the previous lesson. Getting the pupils to read, listen and write the learning objectives is important for improving literacy which is important across the whole curriculum (old and new) and I do this at the beginning of every lesson for consistency, the pupils know what to expect and they enjoy being aware of what level or sublevel they are working at. I have developed my praising strategy by rationalising how and when I use praise because using praise excessively can lead to negative reactions from pupils not receiving praise even when they had ‘done their best’. Effective teacher praise consists of two elements: a description of noteworthy student academic performance or general behaviour and a signal of teacher approval (Brophy, 1981; Burnett, 2001). I have found the different coloured lollipop sticks method of questioning to be very successful as the pupils think it is a fair system but it isn’t entirely random, as I have actually coded the different sublevels of the pupils to th e different colours. For example, if I wanted to ask a hard question I would select a red stick which indicates the pupil is strong and confident but if I wanted to give a weaker pupil a confidence boost then I would select a green stick and ask a relatively easy question. This demonstrates an element of differentiation. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) believes effective questions are an integral part of a successful mathematics classroom. Some research suggests that as much as 50 percent of classroom time is spent asking questions and eliciting responses. Instruction that includes questions during lessons is more effective in producing achievement gains than instruction carried out without putting questions to students. Please refer to Appendix 6 on page 18, for some reasons as to why we ask questions particularly in mathematics. I have made use of mini white boards, traffic lights cards and pupil feedback within these lessons. I prefer the use of mini white boards  compared with the traffic light cards because the cards can be very vague and some pupils tend to follow the trend rather than being entirely truthful, whereas the mini white boards are excellent for AFL because the answers are independent and more detailed so its easier to identify errors and areas for improvement. The Guardian (2014) describes how teaching assistants are a vital source of support for teachers and knowing how to manage them can be tricky. I have found that giving the teaching assistants ownership within the classroom has made it easier to get them onboard with my ideas. It is important to communicate with them; show class interaction; share decision-making; building on the TAs strengths and share feedback with each other. I have found support staff to be very useful in lessons, as they can provide individual teaching for pupils’ that may be struggling, they support SEN and vulnerable pupils, they are also more than willing to assist in handing out worksheets or collecting homework. The Department for Education states that, all children and young people with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) should be able to reach their full potential in school. They should also be supported to make a successful transition into adulthood, whether into employment, further or higher education or training. Please refer to Appendix 7, for further information of how I have deployed support staff within lessons. According to Ofsted, good assessment practice in mathematics includes: day-to-day assessment, marking and feedback, and the use of assessment to set targets. Please refer to Appendix 8, for a summary of how Ofsted outline formative and summative assessment. I have adopted a number of effective methods outlined by Black and William (1998), that have developed approaches to self and peer-assessment with the aim of enabling pupils to: share the learning intentions so that they understand where they are heading; develop confidence and skills in judging their own performance and reflect on their work and that of others to learn how to improve it. I particularly like some of the additional uses of ICT that BECTA (2004) highlighted above and although I haven’t adopted some of the methods yet, I believe they would be very useful and I will be using them in future. But first, I will have to learn how to use these additional features of an interactive whiteboard and I will develop this during my next placement. Providing real life examples and relating functional skills to mathematics is important for supporting  the transfer of meaningful information at key transitional points and facilitating the setting of meaningful curricular targets that can be shared with pupils. The DfE state that functional skills aim to help people read, write, speak English and use mathematics at the level they need to function and progress both at school and elsewhere. Mathematics in everyday life refers to the way humans use math to complete certain tasks throughout the day, an example I used for this topic was: a person may use math when the y are out shopping and trying to calculate the total cost of the items they are buying after a 15% decrease in the January sale. I have found the use of exit cards or a GCSE exam question, as a plenary to be highly successful with this group due to their age. It appears to me that they actually enjoy writing on the little, colourful exit cards then handing them to me at the door as they leave. They are given a choice as to what they can write on the card, for example, they might write what they have learnt in the lesson or how they feel about the topic or they might write a question down for something they wish for me to address. This process allows me to assess for learning and plan how to progress in future lessons. As well as following the schools’ marking policy, I also provide additional oral feedback rather than relying almost exclusively on marking or written feedback in pupils’ books, and I help pupils develop skills in marking and reviewing their own work and that of their peers in order to involve pupils more in marking and feedback so that they can progress further. Overall, I have found most of my teaching methods to be effective and successful. The pupils’ have met their targets and achieved the learning objectives. I have adapted all the methods mentioned above and tried different approaches to establish this. In the future, I aim to satisfy the targets that I have set myself throughout the analysis to improve my teaching methods further. Review of Assessment Theory Ofsted (2013) outline, how effective assessment practice in mathematics is associated with systematic arrangements for actively promoting, monitoring  and recording pupils’ progress; also that it is used as a teaching tool for judging attainment. Teachers should review pupils’ progress closely as part of daily classroom practice, involving pupils in the assessment of their own strengths and weaknesses and provide feedback. According to Black and William (1998), effective formative assessment is a key factor in motivating learning and raising pupil standards of achievement. Formative assessment, is most effective when it: is embedded in the teaching and learning process; sharing learning objectives with pupils; it helps pupils to know and recognise the standards to aim for; it provides feedback for pupils to identify what they should do to improve; it involves teachers and pupils reviewing their performance and progress and it can involve pupils in self-assessment. For example, pupils’ marking and reviewing their own work. The provision of effective marking and feedback on work can raise pupil achievement; this use of assessment information is beginning to promote effective practice in mathematics. It is suggested that some teachers feel that they are spending a large amount of time marking but it seemed to have little impact on pupils’ subsequent work and that they would prefer to provide more oral feedback rather than relying on written feedback in pupils’ books. Teachers can overcome this challenge by helping pupils’ to develop skills in marking and reviewing their own work and that of their peers in order to involve pupils more in marking and feedback. (Ofsted reports, 2013) For pupils to learn effectively, they need to identify any gaps between their actual and optimal performance. Many approaches to self and peer-assessment have the aim of enabling pupils to: share the learning intentions so that they understand where they are heading; to develop confidence and skills in judging their own performance; and reflect on their work and that of others to learn how they can improve. (Hawkins Heflin, 2011) Kern, L. Clemens, N. H. (2007), highlight that due to recent changes to strategies, many good mathematics teachers make effective use of assessment data to set targets for individual pupils. This process is particularly effective when two targets are set with the higher one being more ambitious  than the prediction based on the data. The aim is for pupils to have an idea as to where they are in the process and where they are heading and what is possible if they are ambitious. In mathematics, Bellamy (1999) states that the most effective targets set for pupils are often curriculum-specific. These are: associated with a significant but manageable learning objective (e.g. simplify fractions by cancelling all common factors); discussed with pupils and expressed in a form that they can understand; relatively short-term and subject to regular revision and retained where they are accessible to pupils. To summarise, formative assessment is that undertaking the assessment constitutes a learning experience in its own right, for example; writing an essay or undertaking a class presentation, can be valuable formative activities as a means of enhancing knowledge as well as for developing research into mathematics, communication, intellectual and organisational skills. Formative assessment is not often included in the formal grading of work, and indeed many believe that it should not be. In contrast, summative assessment is not traditionally regarded as having any intrinsic learning value. It is usually undertaken at the end of a period of learning in order to generate a grade that reflects the student’s performance. The traditional unseen end of module examination is often presented as a typical form of summative assessment. But Black and William (1998) recommend: Frequent short tests are better than infrequent long ones. We have highlighted two important points from this differe ntiation. Firstly, there is no reason why only summative assessment should be included in any formal grading of pupil progress and performance, it is perfectly appropriate to have elements of formative assessment as part of the final grade as well. The second point is that the distinction between formative and summative assessment may be a false one. Whilst some elements of assessment may generate a greater formative learning experience than others, it can be argued that all forms of assessment have some formative element. For example, students undertaking a degree course where assessment consists of written assignments and end of module examinations will over the period of the course improve their examination technique, this is a formative learning experience. Perhaps  instead of becoming overly concerned with whether an assessment is formative or summative in nature it may be better to see various types of assessment as a continuum of the formative learning experience. In conclusion, research indicates that improving learning through assessment depends on five simple factors: the provision of effective feedback to students; the active involvement of students in their own learning; adjusting teaching to take into account res ults of assessment; a recognition of the profound influence assessment has on the motivation and self esteem of students; and lastly the need for students to be able to self assess themselves and understand how to improve. But at the same time, there are several other inhibiting factors, these include: the tendency for teachers to assess quantity of work and presentation rather than quality of learning; giving greater attention to marking and grading (much of it tending to lower the self esteem of students rather than provide advice for improvement); some teachers feedback to students often serves social and managerial purposes rather than to help them learn more effectively; and teachers not knowing enough about their students’ learning needs. The characteristics of assessment that promote learning, are highlighted by Ofsted as follows: it is imbedded in a view of teaching and learning of which it is an essential part; it involves sharing learning goals with students; it helps students know and recognise the standards they are aiming for; it involves students in self-assessment; it provides feedback which helps students recognise their next steps and how to take them; it is underpinned by confidence that every student can improve; and it involves both the teachers and students reviewing and reflecting on assessment data. If a teacher can adopt all or most of these characteristics into their assessment techniques then they are sure to be outstanding. The ways in which a teacher can achieve this in the classroom, when assessment is being used to help learning is through observation – this includes listening to how students describe their work and their reasoning. Questioning – using open-ended questions, phrased to invite students to  explore their ideas and their reasoning. Setting tasks in a way that requires students to use certain skills and apply ideas. Asking students to communicate their learning through drawings, actions, role-play, brainstorming key concepts, as well as writing. Discussing words and how they are used. Please refer to Appendix 3, for guidance from LGfL – Learning Grid for Lancashire (2014) for Assessing Pupils Progress (APP) in Mathematics. Analysis of Summative Assessment Task According to Glickman et al (2009), summative assessment refers to the assessment of the learning and summarises the development of learners at a particular time. After a period of work, e.g. a unit for two weeks, the learner sits for a test and then the teacher marks the test and assigns a score. The test aims to summarise learning up to that point. The test may also be used for diagnostic assessment to identify any weaknesses and then build on that using formative assessment. Black and William (1998) agree that, frequent short tests are better than infrequent long ones. This is the approach I have adopted for this summative assessment task. The summative assessment task that I have designed is aimed to check for knowledge, understanding and learning of the topic mentioned in the rationale. The medium term plan I set myself for this topic was to teach fractions, percentages and decimals, over a sequence of four lessons. Year 8 – Set 3 have mathematics on their timetable twice per week, therefore I was able to cover the content in two weeks. I informed them at the end of the fourth lesson that was on a Thursday, that they would be getting tested on Tuesday so they were aware that they were having a test to cover the content from the last four lessons. Hence, giving them a chance to revise over the weekend rather than overwhelming them on Tuesday. The areas covered in the four lessons and also included in the test are: simple percentages that can be calculated mentally, using a calculator to  work out percentages (including percentage increase and decrease), and to be able to convert between fractions and decimals. Please refer to Appendix 9, for a copy of the Summative Assessment and Answers. The instructions given on the day of the task were: use a calculator where appropriate for example, to calculate fractions/percentages of quantities/measurements, calculate percentages and find the outcome of a given percentage increase or decrease and please work silently and independently. There are 30 pupils in this class including one SEN pupil with hearing difficulties and two pupils’ that have recently been moved up from Set 4. Pupils were previously ranging from level 5A to 5C and they were all expected to hit their target grades which tend to increase by 3 sublevels leaving them at a level 6A to 6C respectively by the end of the academic year. At the end of the task, I was able to mark the test and give them a grade at the end. Please refer to Appendix 10, for a copy of my anonymous class list with the grades awarded included. In these anonymous pupil records, we can see that the SEN pupil is highlighted in yellow because they were absent on the day of the test and the target level is below average; the gifted and talented pupils’ are highlighted in green and by analysing the target grades we can establish that they may not necessarily be gifted and talented in mathematics, but rather in other subjects like Art, Dance and Physical Education. Althoug h, a few of them have met their targets grades which are above average. The majority of the class met their target grades and a lot of them improved upon their target grade as I expected. All the questions in the test relate to real life and the only question that they all made errors on was finding 17.5% and then adding it back on because it was VAT, even though I’d given them a little clue by typing cost in capital letters. As well as marking and awarding a grade, I also make use of target stickers at the end of any assessment so that pupils’ know and recognise the standards they are aiming for and it provides feedback which helps students recognise their next steps and how to take them. Please refer to Appendix 11, for an example of a target sticker that I might use at KS3 level. I tend to provide oral feedback as well rather than relying exclusively on marking  and written feedback. I found it difficult to decide on the assessment criteria for the marking and feedback on this given piece of work (for example, whether or not presentation is to be judged). So I decided to use the target grades as a guide to developing a mark scheme, which related to the test and the results as a percentage e.g. if they achieved 70% in the test then they would be awarded a grade 6A. It was difficult to determine these boundaries because the test was quite short and partly biased because it was only testing one topic in mathematics and they had all weekend to revise. There was potential for them to score over 90% and this wouldn’t be the case in an end of term test where many topics are combined into a longer test. This is one point that could be amended to improve the quality of this assessment in the future. Ofsted outline the characteristics of assessment that promote learning, to be imbedded in a view of teaching and learning of which it is an essential part and involves sharing learning objectives and goals with pupils. I have found the task to be successful in helping me determine the level of the pupils’ attainment and progress in mathematics. I believe that frequent short tests will over a period of time improve their examination technique, which is a formative learning experience. Black and William (1998) agree that, constantly assessing demonstrates confidence that every pupil can improve; and it involves both the teachers and pupils’ reviewing and reflecting on the assessment data. Assessing Pupils Progress at Key Stage 3 is vital to tracking pupils progress over time to inform the planning of teaching matched to pupils needs and gathering diagnostic information about the strengths and areas of development of individual pupils’ and groups of pupils. Appendices APPENDIX 1 The school are determined to close the achievement gap by ensuring that any pupils at risk of underachieving are identified early and support and intervention is provided for these pupils. In particular those pupils that are on FSM or classified as LAC. The following table shows the attainment of all pupils in Year 11 including those who were ‘looked after’ or on free school meals. The brackets show the number or percentage of students on free school meals and or who are looked after. (FSM and or LAC)/ All Pupils 2011 2012 No. of pupils in Year 11 (GCSE) (7)/126 (4)/140 % gaining 5+ A*-C in both English and Maths (57)/67 (25)/68.5 % gaining 5+ A*-C English (57)/69 (50)/75 % gaining 5+ A*-C Maths (100)/83 (50)/76 APPENDIX 2 Mathematical jokes relating to the topic: Who invented fractions? Henry the 1/8th! I believe five out of four people have trouble with fractions. There are three kinds of mathematicians those who can count and those who cant. Math Magic / Number fun / Maths Tricks: Trick 1: 2s trick Step1: Think of a number. Step2: Multiply it by 3. Step3: Add 6 with the getting result. Step4: divide it by 3. Step5: Subtract it from the first number used. Answer: 2 Trick 2: Any Number Step1: Think of any number. Step2: Double the number. Step3: Add 9 with result. Step4: sub 3 with the result. Step5: Divide the result by 2. Step6: Subtract the number with the number with first number started with. Answer: 3 Trick 3: Any three digit Number Step1: Add 7 to it. Step2: Multiply the number with 2. Step3: Subtract 4 with the result. Step4: Divide the result by 2. Step5: Subtract it from the number started with. Answer: 5 I found the mathematical jokes and maths magic tricks highly effective in the sense that it settled the pupils down at the beginning of the lesson, it helped to build a good relationship with the pupils, it created a little bit of fun and something to look forward to within the lesson, which in turn lead to better behaviour and attitudes towards maths as a subject. It is also useful for practising mental maths or for improving skills like using a calculator. APPENDIX 3 Assessing Pupils Progress (APP) in Mathematics Assessing Pupils Progress is a structured approach to pupil assessment in Key Stage 3 to support teachers with: making judgements about their pupils attainment, keyed into national standards developing and refining their understanding of progression in science gathering diagnostic information about the strengths and areas of development of individual pupils and groups of pupils tracking pupils progress over time to inform the planning of teaching planning teaching that is matched to pupils needs supporting the transfer of meaningful information at key transitional points facilitating the setting of meaningful curricular targets that can be shared with pupils and parents APPENDIX 4 Marking example WWW:You understand and can write a percentage/fraction/decimal in either form in order to compare values. You can also calculate a percentage of a quantity and use this to increase or decrease a value. EBI:When calculating a percentage increase/decrease of a quantity you use the multiplier method. Your work is excellent/good/satisfactory. MRI: (response to feedback from the pupil) APPENDIX 5 Starter related to percentages Find 10% of the following: a)  £300b) $200 c) 50gd) 30p e) 45pf)  £64 g) $32h) 12g APPENDIX 6 Why Ask Questions? The following is a partial list of the questions that teacher Peggy Lynn asked during her two lessons on direct and inverse variation. As you read each question below, think about Peggys purpose in asking it. Ask yourself, Why did she ask that question? How did you come up with your estimation? When you say pattern, what kind of pattern are you referring to? And what does that + 1 on the end mean? Any questions so far? Why did you do 100 ï ¿ ½ 100? You seem pretty certain of that. Why do you think its not [a direct proportion]? So how many gallons would there be in 920,000 barrels? Could a direct variation have a negative slope? If you have zero drops, how much area should you have? What just happened there, when you doubled your volume? What about if you made the area of the base get smaller and smaller, your diameter got smaller and smaller. Whats going to happen to the height of your water? Questions in the math classroom serve a variety of purposes, from increasing student comprehension and clarifying student thinking, to aiding in social development. The following list gives many of the reasons teachers ask questions. To involve students in the lesson by letting them share ideas that provide clarification and a deeper analysis of problems Example: You seem pretty certain of that. Why do you think its not [a direct proportion]? To provide assessment of what students know to help guide  instruction Example: Why did you do 100   100? To enhance retention of important information and to provide increased understanding of the major mathematical skills and concepts. †¨Example: If you have zero drops, how much area should you have? To aid in classroom management by redirecting discussions, making sure that students comprehend directions, and checking for understanding. (Many questions in this category are not prepared in advance teachers ask them as the need arises .) †¨Example: Any questions so far? APPENDIX 7 Deploying support staff Communication Be clear and specific: dont assume that your TA knows what you want them to do. Think about how you would feel walking into a lesson and trying to decipher what to support the pupils with while listening to the teaching segment. Its hard to manage all of this at once, especially because you were on break duty and missed the first seven minutes. Not all teachers have dedicated time to share and discuss lessons with their TA. But its essential to discuss your lessons plans, expectations, focus children and so on; this will help you build a relationship with your TA and enable them to anticipate what you and the pupils will need throughout the year. Class interaction Empowering your TA to be active in lessons not only enables them to raise their profile in the classroom, but also allows you to develop an engaging environment. Involve them in lessons and build a rapport where you can bounce off each other during sessions. The teachers and teaching assistants roles are different but both are important and your TA might have more experience in the school or with children. Be sure to acknowledge this, always speak in a professional way and when there is conflict, clear the air  and address the issue. Decision-making Allowing your TA to make independent decisions that are in line with your classroom rules and behavioural strategies is very empowering. Facilitating this will help keep the class running smoothly and promotes a team approach to teaching. As well as the benefit of building a good working environment, in the event that you are out of class for NQT time, off sick or on a course, you know that your classroom systems are being sustained, giving your pupils consistency, which is particularly vital in a primary classroom. Build on your TAs strengths Ask your TA about their hobbies, experiences and what they would like to do in the classroom. This will give you a great insight into their strengths, skills and interests. Over time you will find that building on your TAs skills and strengths will enable you to get the best out of them, to the benefit of you and your pupils. Also be aware that an increasing number of TAs are graduates and have very valuable transferable skills. Feedback Everyone benefits from feedback and your TA is no different. Give them details about what works well, remain positive and give clear requests. Make sure the feedback is constructive and help your TA to see the bigger picture of what you are trying to achieve in your setting. If you would like to find out more, Maximising the impact of teaching assistants by Anthony Russell, Rob Webster and Peter Blatchford is well worth a read. Fundamentally, be conscious of planning for your support staff, it will empower them and allow you to have a greater impact on your pupils. APPENDIX 8 According to Ofsted, good assessment practice in mathematics includes: day-to-day assessment, marking and feedback, and the use of assessment to set targets. Formative assessment, or ‘assessment for learning’ is most effective when it: is embedded in the teaching and learning process   shares learning goals with pupils helps pupils to know and to recognise the standards to aim for provides feedback for pupils to identify what they should do to improve has a commitment that every pupil can improve  involves teachers and pupils reviewing pupils’ performance and progress involves pupils in self-assessment. Five key changes to marking and feedback:  decrease the use of extrinsic rewards (house credits) as a number of pupils reported negative reactions to not receiving rewards even when they had ‘done their best’ provide more oral feedback rather than relying almost exclusively on marking and/or written feedback in pupils’ books help pupils develop skills in marking and reviewing their own work and that of their peers in order to involve pupils more in marking and feedback decide on the assessment criteria for the marking and feedback on a given piece of work (for example, whether or not presentation is to be judged) be clear about whether to get pupils to correct their own work based on what purpose it will serve for a given piece of work. The most effective targets set by or for pupils are often curriculum-specific. These are: associated with a significant but manageable learning objective (e.g. simplify fractions by cancelling all common factors) discussed with p upils and expressed in a form that they can understand relatively short-term and subject to regular revision Bibliography Akin-Little, K. A., Eckert, T. L., Lovett, B. J., Little, S. G. (2004). Extrinsic reinforcement in the classroom: Bribery or best practice. School Psychology Review, 33, 344-362. Sources: Black, P., Wiliam, D. Inside the black box: Raising standards through classroom assessment, www.kcl.zc.uk/depsta/education/publications/blackbox.html Black, P., William, D. (1998). Assessment and classroom learning. Assessment in Education, 5 (1), 7–74. Brophy, J. (1981). Teacher praise: A functional analysis. Review of Educational Research, 51, 5-32. Burnett, P. C. (2001). Elementary students preferences for teacher praise. Journal of Classroom Interaction, 36(1), 16-23. Daly, E. J., Martens, B. K., Barnett, D., Witt, J. C., Olson, S. C. (2007). Varying intervention delivery in response to intervention: Confronting and resolving challenges with measurement, instruction, and intensity. School Psychology Review, 36, 562-581. Glickman, C.D., Gordon, S.P., Ross-Gordon, J.M. (2009).Supervisi on and instructional leadership: a developmental approach Allyn and Bacon, Boston, MA. Haring, N.G., Lovitt, T.C., Eaton, M.D., Hansen, C.L. (1978). The fourth R: Research in the classroom. Columbus, OH: Charles E. Merrill Publishing Co. Hawkins, S. M., Heflin, L. J. (2011). Increasing secondary teachers’ behavior-specific praise using a video self-modeling and visual performance feedback intervention. Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions,13(2) 97–108. Kern, L. Clemens, N. H. (2007). Antecedent strategies to promote appropriate classroom behavior. Psychology in the Schools, 44, 65-75. http://www.learner.org/workshops/algebra/workshop7/teaching.html#4