Wednesday, October 30, 2019
Labour education and extensive employee development Essay
Labour education and extensive employee development - Essay Example Employee learning explains the process of acquiring knowledge through curiosity to learn. It is a mind-set that has anxiety to get information. Employee learning and labor education will definitely increase the abilities and competency of the employee (Dixon, 1999). Employee development and labor education have become the burning questions for todayââ¬â¢s human resource management. Increased downsizing brought by organizational change has amplified the needs of employee development because the labor is needed to be more flexible and responsive at all levels. In the recent years, employee development schemes have seen exponential growth because the learning atmosphere in organizations is boosting. Donaldson (1993) asserts that the organizations have realized the importance of workforce and the need for their education and development in work place (as cited in Lee, 2012). Developing employee abilities can make them more adaptable to internal and external working requirements and definitely add to their learning and confidence which bring in higher productivity to the organization. A research by Lound, Rowe and Parson (2001) confirms that EDS (Employee Development Schemes) have been employed at extensive levels both in public and private organizations. These schemes add loyalty, confidence, and commitment which boost learning in the work place. IRS (1993) puts it as: ââ¬Å"Employee development schemes are proving to be one of the successes of human resource management. They can have real business advantages, creating some of the right conditions for organizations to transform themselves into what has been called the ââ¬Ëlearning organizationââ¬â¢, but what might as appropriately be termed the ââ¬Ëcontinuously changing organizationââ¬â¢, given economic imperatives and a positive impact on individualsââ¬â¢ self-esteem and confidence (as cited in Maguire, 1997). Chris Argyris referred to this commitment as a ââ¬Å"psychological contractââ¬
Monday, October 28, 2019
The Role of the Teacher Essay Example for Free
The Role of the Teacher Essay Perhaps the most important factor in the learning environment is the teacher. This is because the most successful and accessible form of input for the learners in the learning environment is introduced by that of the teacher. The reason for this is somewhat obvious as the teacher is the primary focus and authority in the direction of any given topic. After all, they are there to teach. Essentially, when teachers talk in class they provide the learners with opportunities to develop and expand their comprehension in relation to the given subject. That is to say, that the teachers have the knowledge and it is their ultimate role to distribute this knowledge to the learners. However, this also extends to the significance of the zone of proximal development and the role of keeping the class focused. In relation to teaching English, the teacher can optimise this opportunity in choosing the relevant levels of vocabulary, structure, speed of delivery, degree of clarity, and range of register and style required in relation to the given topic. However, as we have concerned ourselves here, the delivery of teaching has come under scrutiny due to the aforementioned criticisms regarding testing in a formalised manner. This is particularly significant when the role of knowledge acquisition and group dynamics mentioned in the last section are taken into account. We will now return to some of the literature, theory and practise associated with the role of the teacher in the learning environment. The teacher is often perceived by children and learners as the leader of the learning environment. Essentially, they are perceived as the role model in relation to the learning process and therefore the group dynamic (Dornyei, 2003). There has been a great deal of research related to the nature of group dynamics in teaching that have indicated that without the understanding and/or application of the group dynamic, the teacher can unintentionally manipulate an environment that is not conducive to development and in many cases destructive with regards to learning outcomes. This is clearly a problem in relation to the criticisms associated with tests in the contemporary domain. The reason for this becomes apparent and can be seen in the theory and research related to group dynamics and the role of the teacher in the learning environment. For example, Hadfield indicates that the perception of the teacher as a leader and/or role model is in some way detached from the learning environment and the group dynamic. Further, to act upon this perception is given as a hugely significant disruptive factor in learning as it compromises the learnerââ¬â¢s identity and inclination to disclose information by way of input. This is given by Hadfield explaining that: ââ¬ËFrom the point of view of emotional orientation, many teachers are not unlike the other members in their class groups. Great deals of the psychological processes that underlie group formation apply to teachers as well. For this reason, it may be particularly important for you at this stage to take part in the class room events as ordinary group members by joining as much as is feasible some of the ice breaking activities and, in a reciprocal fashion, sharing some personal information about yourself with the students. ââ¬â¢ (Hadfield, 1992, p. 17) In this key extract, a need for the teacher to acknowledge their position within, rather than above, the group dynamic is clearly outlined. Further, their role in providing group cohesion and productivity from within the group dynamic is given as essential to a cohesive group. From this perspective, we can assume that without knowledge of group dynamics and their own role within the group, the teacher would not realise their significance in the cohesion of the group and the need for extending and coordinating the focus of the class. This clearly has disruptive implications. Essentially, if the teacher were to perceive themselves as a leader and distributor of knowledge they may drag the group along leaving many of the group behind. The contrary positive effects of negating this form of teacher role are given by the findings of Broadfoot, who suggests that: Many pupils have found the opportunity of talking with their teachers on a one-to-one basis about achievements, experiences, needs and appropriate future targets a rewarding and helpful experience that has a positive effect on their motivation (Broadfoot et al, 1988). This shows that the role of teaching is significant in the nature of learning English. It indicates that the teacher is more than a distributor of predefined tests. It shows that although they are the leader of the learning environment, they should be immersed in it and be responsive to the inputs, goals and directions put forward by the children. This means that rather than maintaining a focus on testing the children, they should attempt to derive a focus and aim through following the feedback from the group. This means that continuous re-assessment rather than pre-defined testing is the primary tool to be used by the teacher. However, while we can perhaps reject the notion of a teacher role based upon top down input at this stage, we must still take into account the direction of learning. That is to say, that it would be unwise to allow the children and learners to simply guide the class outright and have the teacher allow the group to govern the class. For example, as well as losing focus and a sense of established knowledge, the children may form their own groups based upon friendships and other bonds that may disrupt the focus of learning and the acquiring new knowledge. We can perhaps view the teacherââ¬â¢s role as one looking to authentically allow for personal expression and social bonding. However, it must also be focused upon the input deriving from the class. If this is not observed then it is the suggestion at this point that it would be highly likely that there would be lower success in terms of acquired knowledge and a disruption to the process of input. It is with that we turn to the alternative forms of leading and assessing the focus of the group in the learning environment.
Saturday, October 26, 2019
On the Function and Evolution of Sleep Essay -- Biology Essays Researc
On the Function and Evolution of Sleep If physiologists devoted the most research time to behaviors humans engaged in the most, we would probably have a full understanding of the biological purpose of sleep. After all, humans, with the exception of most college students, spend one third of their lives in a somnolent state. Despite its fundamental role in human and animal life, sleep is, even in an age when neuroscience has reduced many behaviors to neurological mechanisms, still quite mysterious. What processes are taking place during sleep that benefit the organism? Why spend so much time in an unresponsive and vulnerable state? That these questions haven't been definitively answered is really not a function of a lack of effort on the part of scientists, but rather of the difficulties inherent in studying sleep. It is easy to observe the harm that is done to a human or animal deprived of sleep. A rat prevented from sleeping will lose the ability to maintain body temperature and die in about three weeks, showing no eviden ce of physiological damage (1). In humans, sleep deprivation impairs thinking and suppresses the immune system. But why this deterioration take place is less clear, and the object of disagreeing theories. This essay will try to explain the function of sleep based on what is now known, and attempt to shed light on the reasons and mechanisms for its evolution. An investigation of the control, and perhaps the origin, of sleep might best begin with the hypothalamus, a flat, horizontal structure in the brain that is known to play an important role. Damage to the back portion of the hypothalamus causes somnolence, indicating that when intact, it sustains alertness (1). In contrast, damage to the front part indu... ...t suggests that some of the circuits employed in sensory reception and processing also function to establish and maintain memory, and that both functions cannot be achieved simultaneously. Sleep circumvents this limitation, and is thus a well adapted behavior. WWW Sources 1)Scientific American "In Focus" http://www.sciam.com/missing.cfm 2)Sleep and Memory: Evolutionary Perspectives http://bisleep.medsch.ucla.edu/SRS/publications.htm 3)REM Sleep = Dreaming: Only a Dream http://bisleep.medsch.ucla.edu/SRS/rosenlicht-feinberg.htm 4)Birds May Refine Their Songs While Sleeping" ,Science Magazine article http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/282/5397/2163 Additional Resources Discussion on Sleep Evolution ,Scientific American article http://www.sciam.com/missing.cfm The Journal "Sleep" http://www.stanford.edu/dept/sleep/journal/
Thursday, October 24, 2019
B&Q Case Study
Contents Executive Summary3 1. TASK ONE4 1. 1 Introduction4 1. 2 Possession and practice4 3. 3 B&Q case5 3. TASK TWO8 3. 1 Introduction8 3. 2 Time distance9 3. 3 Technological distance10 3. 4 Social distance10 3. 5 Cultural distance11 4. Bibliography13 Executive Summary In a modernized and globalized world, knowledge creation and synergization of knowledge in an organization is truly crucial.As data and information are readily available, and information communication technology (ICT) has highly advanced, organizations such as B&Q need to understand how knowledge creation can assist to improve internal and external processes and also encourage innovation. In task one, the aim is to differentiate between possession of knowledge and practice of knowledge and examine which epistemology B&Q uses throughout their supply chain. B&Q uses possession knowledge whereby it provides all their vendors with a code of conduct guidelines which they need to follow through.However, in the face of risk and uncertainty in an economic crisis, B&Q should adopt practice of knowledge and enabling people to do differently and better. In task two, the statement by Stoneman (2010) means that trust and power are the main factors that drive product, process and organizational innovation. For B&Q, due to their power as the distributor, they are able to develop and lay down the process and procedures that all their vendors need to adhere to. However, in an economic crisis, its regimental practice may ot work as uncertainty disrupts the flow of the procedures. 1. TASK ONE 1. 1 Introduction The studies on knowledge and its characteristics have long been explored and discussed in the business and supply chain world. With the emergent of technology and innovation, the possession and practice of knowledge has become more essential in this ââ¬Å"knowledge societyâ⬠(Nonaka, 1994; Bell, 1973; Drucker, 1968; Toffler, 1990). But what is knowledge and how does an organization activate and generat e knowledge?Knowledge is defined as ââ¬Å"awareness, consciousness, or familiarity gained by experience or learningâ⬠(knowledge, n. d) which are the ways people in a social situations would understand and make sense of where they are and what they are doing. When knowledge is conducted and embraced in an organization, it will result to a group of people who develop shared beliefs, behaviours and routines that shape organization capabilities. Experts such as Polanyi (1966), Nonaka (1994) and Cook and Brown (1999) divide knowledge into two categories called tacit knowledge and explicit knowledge.Tacit knowledge is associated with the skills or know-how that people developed through their own experience in specific contexts. Whereas explicit knowledge is something that has been codified, written down or spelled out and is communicable across context. 1. 2 Possession and practice From the word possession itself, one can understand that it is about the knowledge that people have i n their mind (Cook and Brown, 1999). Blackler (1995), and Cook and Brown (1999) refer possesion of knowledge as ââ¬Å"knowledgeâ⬠and practice of knowledge as ââ¬Å"knowingâ⬠.Knowledge is a mental or cognitive capacity which is hierarchical in nature and comprises of data, information etc. moreover, possession of knowledge is a personal property where people render meaning from subjective experiences, perceptions and previous understanding. As human minds are individually unique, hence different people may perceive and intepret the same information or data differently. Meanwhile, practice of knowledge sees knowledge as something that it developed through social interaction such as project work, group assignment or group discussion.When people practice knowledge, they convert tacit knowledge into explicit knowledge, thus transferring knowledge from one person to another. This is done through sharing stories, experiences or creating norms to a group of people hence enablin g the experience of an individual to be related to a wider community. 3. 3 B&Q case B&Q plc works with many vendors such as Kingfisher Asia (KAL) who supply products to B&Q. Hence to manage their vendors and ensure processes and procedures are followed, B&Q come up with code of conduct (B&Q Operational Standards for Supply Chains) for all their vendors.The code of conduct is based on the international labour and envirnmental standards set by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions which factories and worksites of all vendors throughout the world need to comply to. In summary, vendors need to let B&Q have full visibility of the enitre supply chain and fulfill and obey the code of conduct criteria at all facilities. Any failure to meet the nine Critical Failure Points (CFPs) will result in B&Q not buying or purchasing their products.Through this code of conduct, we can deduce that B&Q adopts a possession of knowledge rather than practice of knowledge. B&Q receives know ledge about labour and environmental guidelines from ILO conventions and uses the basic context to write down or capture in an information technology (IT) system which is then made available as an organizational resource ââ¬â B&Q Operational Standards for Supply Chains. This is in contrast of having a group discussion with the vendors and seeking their opinions and views on how to create a better working environment for the workers (practice of knowledge).For example, Baer (1987) and Abbott (1988) explained that in order to defend their position, occupational groups such as doctors would write down or ââ¬Ëblack boxââ¬â¢ their skills and knowledge which is then used by others as guidelines or instructions to follow. B&Q is following the same concept as they wish to guard their position as a responsible organization or employer where the rights of all workers throughout the world are respected and protected. Thus, this results to an encoded knowledge (Blackler, 1995) for the vendors as information is transmited through the code of conduct.Unlike an individual or specialist ââ¬Ëblack boxââ¬â¢, the construction of the code of conduct requires the involvement of a group of people. This method of knowledge creation follows Nonakaââ¬â¢s SECI framework where it is a spiralling process of interaction between tacit and explicit knowledge (Nonaka,1994; Nonaka & Toyama, 2003). The SECI framework consists of four knowledge conversion processes; Socialization, Externalization, Combination and Internalization; which can be seen in Figure 1. The breakdown for B&Q case is as follow: 1.Socialization ââ¬â The ILO standards which was made known to the B&Q management assist them to create their own knowledge or set of standards which vendors are to adhere. 2. Externalization ââ¬â B&Q management then decides to have their on set of guidelines in accordance to ILO standards and form a group to write down the code of conduct. 3. Combination ââ¬â We beli eved that during the process of writing down the code of conduct, B&Q managerial level will each provide inputs and opinions based on the organizationââ¬â¢s mission and values on what and how to write down.Once drafted, the Head of Human Resource Department will read it through and request for any necessary adjustments. Once finalized, the Chairman or Head of B&Q will give the approval to codified and disseminate the code of conduct to all the vendors. 4. Internalization ââ¬â Vendors will then read the instructions and ensure all CFPs are met. For any areas which fail to comply, site management of the vendors will then follow the guidelines to make changes and improvements. Figure 1: SECI model of knowledge creation Source: Nonaka & Toyama (2003)However, Nonaka SECI framework downplays the difference of interest, power and political dynamics which people and organizations face everyday. Thus, during an economic crisis, B&Q may approach innovation differently due to the uncert ainty and adversity faced in a crisis. According to Tsoukas (1996) and Schauer (1991), even though organizations can make assumptions and obtain knowledge from previous economic crisis where similar conditions are seen, the formulate strategy may not work perfectly according to what the organizations believed as there are still uncertainty.Meaning to say, a strategy used in a crisis five years ago may not generate the same result due to the difference in technology, peopleââ¬â¢s mindset and other relating conditions. B&Q need to adopt practice of knowledge during a crisis as information may not be readily available since people and other organizations are wary and may not disclose essential information in order to survive the crisis. With competition between rival organizations getting tougher, B&Q needs to learn, practice and embodied skills and knowledge which increases their chance of survival (Barnett & Burgelman, 1996).As mentioned by Hitt et al (2007), a multilevel research approach to encourage employees to have better understanding of the strategy implemented by B&Q management. Hence, B&Q through providing an enabling context, B&Q allow its employees to do things differently and better. For example, when selecting their vendors, B&Q can not just rely on which vendor is able to adhere to its code of conduct. B&Q also need to look into the pricing, capability and other characteristic of the particular vendor.B&Q vendor management team need to have further dicussion with sales, procurement and operations team to gain their opinions and views on which vendors to select. With the current vendors, B&Q need to adopt open communication and discuss with them on how the crisis is affecting their perfomance and compliance towards the code of conduct. Another example is due to the crisis, a vendor had to lay off several staff and workers due reducing their headcount. Hence in order to meet B&Q rders, the vendorââ¬â¢s workers may need to work extra hours whic h is over the local law. Through discussion, B&Q may allow the vendor to carry out the new process until the economy stablize and the vendor is able to employ more workers. 3. TASK TWO 3. 1 Introduction Stoneman (2010) mentioned that ââ¬Å"product, process and organizational innovation are socially and politically mediated processesâ⬠. This means that through social relationship and even political standing in an organization; product, process and organizational innovation are being conceptualized.Jackson (2001) noted that the real-world issues and situations do not match up to traditional disciplinary boundaries due to the inequality in the capitalist world. Therefore, trust and power play an essential role in the development of knowledge and innovation. Internally at B&Q, their managers may see themselves as the authority towards process and organizational innovation. For example, a manager has the power to decide on how his department should be run in order to meet the depar tment and organization goals.And through his relationship and interaction with the staffs, he may perceive a staff as capable if able to follow the process and excel in it. Hence, to gain trust and acknowledgement, employees compete and motivate each other to do better at what they do and also provide suggestions to the manager on improving certain situations or issues. As highlighted by Hardy and Dougherty (1997), depending on the organizationââ¬â¢s culture and its board of management, resource power and process power can either work against or aligned with innovation.However, without meaning and a direction to support the need for innovation, people will notbe motivated to innovate. For example, the warehousing staffs at B&Q may face difficulties in picking the correct product. Thus, with its power, the warehouse manager can arrange a group discussion with the warehousing team leaders and their IT department to create a new process whereby the product are bar-coded and connecte d to a system which will provide the product information when it is scanned.Externally, when working with their supply chain members such as customers and suppliers, B&Q managers can use either its power or trust to ensure compliance are met by the suppliers and customers continue to purchase from B&Q. For example, the board of management has the authority to continue or discontinue the services of a vendor depending on its compliance and performance. However, during an economic crisis where risk and uncertainty are faced, B&Q managers may react to similar situation or innovation differently.B&Q decisions on innovation, processes and products are affected by four types of distance ââ¬â time, technological, social and cultural. 3. 2 Time distance Due to the changes in time, environment and conditions, certain processes or procedures that B&Q managers created may not be applicable in an economic crisis. Moreover, the decisions B&Q managers made in a previous crisis are also not ap plicable even though the conditions are similar because there is still uncertainty whether the outcome would be the same.The finance department will be more guarded on the expenses and budget thus setting a more thorough process of other departments to ensure waste are minimized and costs are low. In a study done by Hardy and Dougherty (1997), innovators or managers in an anti-innovation environment would solve their problems through methods and ways which hamper innovation whereas in a pro-innovation environment, innovators are able to incorporate the organizationââ¬â¢s resources, processes and meaning to develop an more suitable and effective product.Thus, in relation to the crisis, B&Q managers may tackle a deparment issue by pushing away the problematic function and work its way around it. 3. 3 Technological distance As ICT becomes highly advanced, B&Q need to be selective of the information and tacit knowledge that is available widely. This is because not all tacit knowledge is applicable to B&Qââ¬â¢s strategy and that an overflow of information will result to overloading and poor decision making. Through market and technology knowledge, innovators are able to examine problems, communicate and collaboratively develop new products for the organization (Dougherty et al, 2000).However, in an economic crisis, technology knowledge that is necessary for innovation may not be readily available or cost effective to the organization. Faced with uncertainty, B&Q board of management may decide to take on a survival mode concept and develop process such as budget control to restrict unnecessary cost and waste. Thus, if an innovator in B&Q requires a certain technology to assist in its development of new product, he need to go through many levels of strict procedures in order to attain approval. 3. 4 Social distanceDuring an economic crisis, organizations face many problems and situations as they try their hardest to survive and go through the crisis without a m ajor disruption or impact. Due to the uncertainty and risk, managers need to respond quickly and effectively. Even in a crisis, Jackson (2006) noted that managers need to ensure their processes are efficient and effective, staffs are motivated and knowledge is created and enhanced. This is to ensure that the organization is constantly better than their rivals thus surviving the crisis.While ICT and innovation should still move on in a crisis; being a regimental organization; B&Q managers follow routine and have the power to make innovation unlawful through rewarding short-term results, punishing mistakes and even not rendering the support needed for innovation (Hardy & Dougherty, 1997). Not only does this kills innovation in B&Q, the staff would also be less motivate to innovate as they unable to relate a specific project with B&Qââ¬â¢s strategy (Van de Ven and Polley, 1992; Hardy and Dougherty, 1997; Dougherty & Heller, 1994).Hence, B&Q board of management need to re-evaluate it s organization strategy and procedures if it wishes to maintain in the industry. Jackson (2006) suggest organizations to adopt creative holism which is a set of guidelines that are multi-paradigm, multi-methodology and multi-method in nature. Through holism, organizatons look at the situation at a macro and organizational level, thus assuring that the departments are connected and performing together as a whole.Dougherty et al (2000) explained that since organizational knowledge and learning involves many different processes, a focal point or objevtive is essential to ensure one is taking the right path. Pelz and Andrews (1966) recognized that the efforts to combine and link market and technology knowledge across and throughout the organization is often met and filled with tensions. Thus, B&Q need to incorporate these two factor and be less rigid if it wishes to produce and gain new ideas, products and processes (Weick and Westley, 1996). 3. 5 Cultural distanceKingfisher plc, the pa rent company of B&Q, is a United Kingdom (UK) based retailer that offers do-it-yourself (DIY), home decorations and home improvement products to their 6 million customers (Kingfisher, 2012). To meet their international market and demand, Kingfisher plc has overseas sourcing offices in India and Poland that act as a supplier to B&Q. To ensure these strategies and structure is maintain in other country, Kingfisher plc has to train its overseas employees, make them understand and cultivate the Kingfisher plc working culture.However, this will be a tough challenge for example, in India due to the poor education and different socio-culture. Thus, Kingfisher plc needs to accommodate its Western working culture with India working culture, but without losing its main mission and strategy. To ensure this is executed properly, Kingfisher plc needs to obtain a specialist in the Indian market and culture. An economic crisis affects countries differently, depending on where the crisis originates .However, due to globalization, a crisis in the European Union (EU) nations will have a ripple effect, thus affecting neighbouring countries and countries that depend on the EU economy and market. Likewise, if an economic crisis hits India where one of B&Q suppliers is located at, B&Q need to gather information and data from news reports and the India supplierââ¬â¢s representative, and analyse the data before making a decision on how to overcome the crisis and what B&Q should do to ensure that the crisis in India do not disrupt the entire supply chain.To ensure accurate and timely information and knowledge is recevied, Swan and Scarbrough (2005) suggest organizations to adopt a networked innovation process where the innovation procedures is collaborated in the network arrangements within and between organizations (Alter & Hage, 1993; Owen-Smith & Powell, 2004; Powell et al, 1996). B&Q needs to view networks as a means of communication where knowledge and information are dissemina ted (Swan & Scarbrough, 2005) and thus, adopting a open sharing concept where individuals and groups are allow to interact and exchange knowledge and information. 4. Bibliography Abbott, A. 1988). The system of professions: An essay on the division of expert labour. Chicago: University of Chicago Press. Alter, C. , & Hage, J. (1993). Organizations working together. Newbury Park, CA: Sage. Baer, W. (1987). Expertise and professional standards. Work and Occupations, 13, 532-522. Barnett, W. P. , & Burgelman, R. A. (1996). Evolutionary Perspectives on Strategy. Strategic management journal, 17, 5-19. Bell, D. (1973). The Coming of Post-industrial Society: A Venture Social Forecasting. New York: Basic Books. Blackler, F. (1995). Knowledge, knowledge work and organizations: An overview and interpretation.Organization studies, 16(6), 1021-1046. Cook, S. D. , & Brown, J. S. (1999). Bridging Epistemologies: The Generative Dance Between Organizational Knowledge and Organizational Knowing. Or ganization Science, 10(4), 381-400. Dougherty, D. , & Heller, T. (1994). The illegitimacy of successful new products in large firms. Organization Science, 5, 200-218. Dougherty, D. , Borrelli, L. , Munir, K. , & Oââ¬â¢Sullivan, A. (2000). Systems of organizational sensemaking for sustained product innovation. Journal of engineering and technology management, 17, 321-355. Drucker, P. (1968). The Age of Discontinuity: Guidelines to Our Changing Society.New York: Harper & Row. Hardy, C. , & Dougherty, D. (1997). Powering Product Innovation. European Management ]ournal, 15(1), 16-27. Hitt, M. A. , Beamish, P. W. , Jackson, S. E. , & Mathieu, J. E. (2007). Building Theoretical and Empirical Bridges Across Levels: Multilevel Research in Management. Academy of Management Journal, 50(6), 1385-1399. Jackson, M. C. (2001). Critical systems thinking and practice. European Journal of Operational Research, 128, 233-244. Jackson, M. C. (2006). Creative Holism: A Critical Systems Approach to Co mplex Problem Situations. Systems Research and Behavioral Science, 23, 647-657.Kingfisher. (2012). About us. Retrieved from Kingfisher plc web site: http://www. kingfisher. com/index. asp? pageid=176 knowledge. (n. d). Collins English Dictionary ââ¬â Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition. Harper Collins Publishers. Retrieved November 25, 2012, from Dictionary. com: http://dictionary. reference. com/browse/knowledge Nonaka, I. (1994, February). A Dynamic Theory of Organizational Knowledge Creation. Organization Science, 5(1), 14-37. Nonaka, I. , & Toyama, R. (2003). The knowledge-creating theory revisited: knowledge creation as a synthesizing process. Knowledge Management Research & Practice, 1, 2-10.Owen-Smith, J. , & Powell, W. W. (2004). Knowledge networks as channels and conduits: The effects of spillovers in the Boston biotechnology community. Organization Science, 15(1), 5-22. Pelz, D. , & Andrews, F. (1966). Scientists in Organizations. New York: Wiley. plc, K. (2012). About us. Retrieved from Kingfisher plc web site: http://www. kingfisher. com/index. asp? pageid=176 Polanyi, M. (1966). The Tacit Dimension. London: Routledge & Kegan Paul. Powell, W. , Koput, K. , & Smith-Doerr, L. (1996). Interorganizational collaboration and the locus of innovation: Networks of learning in biotechnology.Administrative Science Quarterly, 41, 116-145. Schauer, F. (1991). Playing by the rules. Oxford: Clarendon Press. Swan, J. , & Scarbrough, H. (2005). The politics of networked innovation. Human Relations, 58(7), 913ââ¬â943. Toffler, A. (1990). Powershift: Knowledge, Wealth and Violence at the Edge of 2lst Century. New York: Bantam Books. Tsoukas, H. (1996). The firm as a distributed knowledge system: A constructionist approach. Strategic management journal, 17, 11-25. Van de Ven, A. , & Polley, D. (1992). Learning while innovating. Organization Science, 3, 92-116. Weick, K. ,
Wednesday, October 23, 2019
Being a member of a social group Essay
People become a member of a social group because of their very nature, that is, not to feel lonely, to feel secure, and to satisfy some needs such as social and self-esteem needs. Being part of a group has both positive and negative outcomes for an individual. Positive outcomes can be listed as enjoying group work, gaining new perspectives and making friends, and being more creative. On the other hand, there are some negative outcomes such as disagreements between the members of the group and losing time. One of the positive outcomes is enjoying group work. In a group work people perform their tasks quicker and in a more effective way. In a group, each person seems to be more capable. Working together provides a perfect information flow. People share their knowledge and skills with one another. By that way, people can feel themselves like a team because they are acting as a single body and are having responsibilities. Such kind of a group work provides each member with new perspectives which is a result of the exchange of ideas between group members. Therefore, they start to look from a different and a more brooder window. Involving in a social group provide opportunities for making friends. This is another positive aspect of social groups. People feel themselves better when they have more friends and worse when they do not. On this issue, (1991, p110) Goleman stated that patients who suffer from cancer and have no friends need more medical care than those who have friends. That proves the importance of the social groups in peopleââ¬â¢s lives. Only through this way they can become social and enjoy lives more. Besides its positive outcomes, being part of a group has some negative outcomes as well. These are disagreements between members and wasting the valuable time. Disagreements usually exist when individuals have conflicts with the ideas of others. They want to be free-riders which means acting as a single person and do not participate in or not contribute to the common work. That creates disagreements between group members. The group work can bring inefficiency. For instance, it can continue longer and can waste the time present. The disagreements between the members of the group can also cause losing time. To sum up, all itââ¬â¢s negative and positive outcomes considered, groups play an important role in our lives even though it cause conflicts between group members and losing time. A group is a good shelter that satisfies some of the basic needs of the people involved such as social and self-esteem needs. Further more it helps people to gain new perspectives, to be more creative, and to find new friends. Overall, a group is a social institute which combines various kinds of people who are different in mind, appearance, age and gender.
Tuesday, October 22, 2019
Looking at Breast Cancer in a Different perspective Essay Example
Looking at Breast Cancer in a Different perspective Essay Example Looking at Breast Cancer in a Different perspective Paper Looking at Breast Cancer in a Different perspective Paper Breast cancer, as we all know is a disease that most women can acquire, and a few of men can have. The said disease has been included in the top ten causes of death of women in the United States. Breast cancer is triggered by aging, some genetics factors (if one in the family had the symptoms), and female hormonal changes and for some genetic changes. There had been a number of programs that caters to the awareness of the human being of their susceptibility to the said disease. In the programs that are implemented nowadays, it is very important that we set standards and evaluate if they are reaching the goals of their campaign. Aside from the non-controllable factors for breast cancer, there are also some activities that promote it. So, in this assessment, some circumstances will be cited in order to determine the changes and enhancements for the implemented program to make it more effective. Screening for breast cancer, by doctors and even for some, self-screening is implanted and encouraged for women to avoid the spread and growth of the cancer cells. In what I remember, someone could have only one breast because the other one is removed with its cancer cells, which make it hard to bear for women, off course. Since men also acquire breast cancer, I think we should design a scheme that will make them aware that they too could have it with their strenuous activities. There should be leaflets and booklets that will describe symptoms of the cancer. Moreover, awareness really should not be put last on the list of the health sector of the government, that they will give such time in order to promote activities and foods that can help avoid it. References Brooks-Harris, J. E. Shollenberger, K. G. (1998). Group facilitation skills for student learners, a work book. Retrieved August 10, 2008, from http://www2. hawaii. edu/~jharris/facilitation. html Interagency Gender Working Group, Men and Reproductive Health Task Force (2003). Implementation Guide. Retrieved August 10, 2008, from jhuccp. org/igwg/guide/intro. html
Monday, October 21, 2019
ESL Job Interview Lesson and Worksheet
ESL Job Interview Lesson and Worksheet Students in ESL classes (and some EFL classes) will eventually need to take job interviews as they go about finding new employment. The art of job interviewing can be a touchy subject for many students and the approach can vary widely from country to country. Some countries may expect a more aggressive, self-promoting style, while others may generally prefer a more modest approach. In any case, job interviews can make even the best students nervous. One of the best ways to deal with this is to explain job interviewing as an extremely important game. Make it clear that students should understand the rules of the game. Whether or not they feel any given job interviewing style is fair is an entirely different issue. By making immediately clear that youre not trying to teach the correct way to interview, but only trying to help them understand the rules of the game and what they should expect from it, youll help students focus on the task at hand, rather than getting caught up in cultural comparisons. Aim: Improve job interviewing skills Activity: Simulated job interviews Level:Ã Intermediate to advanced Teaching Outline Distribute the worksheet (from this lesson) to students in the class. Students should follow each of the instructions carefully.Make groups of three people and choose one person to interview for the positions, one to interview the job applicant, and one to take notes on the job interview.Review notes after each interview and have the interviewers tell the interviewees how they think they could improve their job interviewing skills.Have students switch roles and either interview another person or take notes. Make sure that all students have taken notes AND interviewed so that they can better understand the job interviewing process.While students are in their groups, have them note disagreements on a good job interviewing technique. At the end of the session, have students to ask other students their opinions on these disagreements.As a follow-up activity, have students go online and find a few jobs they would like to do. Have them write down their qualifications as practice in class. Job Interviewing Worksheet Visit a popular employment website to search for positions. Put in a few keywords for jobs that you would like. Alternately, find a newspaper with employment ads. If you dont have access to job listings, think of some jobs that you might find interesting. The positions you choose should be related to employment you have done in the past, or the jobs you would like to do in the future as they relate to your studies.Ã The positions dont necessarily need to be identical to your past jobs, nor do they need to exactly match the subject you are studying at school. Choose two jobs from the list of positions you have found. Make sure to choose jobs that match your skills in some way. To prepare yourself with appropriate vocabulary, you should explore vocabulary resources that list specific vocabulary for the work sector for which you are applying. Several resources can help with this: Use the Occupational Outlook Handbook, which lists positions by industry. This is a rich resource that provides general descriptions of the type of work and responsibilities you can expect.Search the industry glossary, for example, banking glossary. This will lead you to pages that provide definitions for key language in your chosen industry.Use a collocation dictionary with keywords from your industry. This will help you learn key phrases and words that usually go together. On a separate piece of paper, write down your qualifications for the job. Think about the skills you have and how they relate to the job you would like. These skills and qualifications can later be used on your resume. Here are some of the questions you should ask yourself when thinking about your qualifications: What tasks have I done at past jobs that are similar to the tasks required in this job advertisement?What are my strengths and weaknesses and how do they relate to the tasks required in this job advertisement?How do I relate to people? Do I have good people skills?If I dont have any related work experience, how does the experience I have and/or studies Ive done relate?Why do I want this job? With classmates, take turns interviewing each other. You can help fellow students by writing down a few questions that you feel will be asked. However, make sure that your partners also include general questions such as Whats your greatest strength?
Sunday, October 20, 2019
Lyda Newman Invents Vented Hair Brush
Lyda Newman Invents Vented Hair Brush African-American inventor Lyda D. Newman patented a new and improved hairbrush in 1898Ã while living in New York. A hairdresser by trade, Newman designed a brush that was easy to keep clean, durable, easy to make and provided ventilation during brushing by having recessed air chambers. In addition to her novel invention, she was a womens rights activist.Ã Hairbrush Improvement Patent Newman received patent #614,335 on Nov. 15, 1898. Her hairbrush design included several features for efficiency and hygiene. It had evenly spaced rows of bristles, with open slots to guide debris away from the hair into a recessed compartment and a back that could be opened at the touch of a button for cleaning out the compartment. Women's Rights Activist In 1915, Newman was mentioned in local newspapers for her suffrage work. She was one of the organizers of an African-American branch of the Woman Suffrage Party, which was fighting to give women the legal right to vote. Working on behalf of her fellow African-American women in New York, Newman canvassed her neighborhood to raise awareness of the cause and organized suffrage meetings in her voting district. Prominent white suffragists of the Woman Suffrage Party worked with Newmans group, hoping to bring voting rights to all of New Yorks female residents. Her Life Newman was born in Ohio around 1885. Government censuses of 1920 and 1925 confirm that Newman, then in her 30s, was living in an apartment building on Manhattans West Side and was working as a familys hairdresser. Newman lived much of her adult life in New York City. Not much else is known about her private life. Hairbrush History Newman did not invent the hairbrush, but she did revolutionize its design to resemble the brushes in use more today. The history of the first hairbrush begins with the comb. Found by archaeologists at Paleolithic dig sites around the world, combs date back to the origins of human-made tools. Carved from bone, wood, and shells, they were initially used to groom hair and keep it free of pests, such as lice. As the comb developed, however, it became a decorative hair ornament used to display wealth and power in countries including China and Egypt.Ã From ancient Egypt to Bourbon France, elaborate hairstyles were in vogue, which required brushes to style them. The hairstyles included ornate headdresses and wigs that were used as displays of wealth and social status. Because of their primary use as a styling tool, hairbrushes were an indulgence reserved exclusively for the wealthy. As late as the 1880s, each brush was unique and carefully handcrafted- a task that included carving or forging a handle from wood or metal as well as hand-stitching each individual bristle. Because of this detailed work, brushes were usually bought and gifted only on special occasions, such as weddings or christenings, and cherished for life. As brushes became more popular, brush makers developed a streamlined manufacturing process to keep up with demand.
Saturday, October 19, 2019
Credit Crunch Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 4
Credit Crunch - Essay Example Credit crunch can be thwarted by sound efforts on the part of the people who brought this credit crisis about in entirety. This would mean that these people are asked to do things against the norms which have already made the rounds in the last year or so. There is a need to address the issues that the credit crunch has brought with it since these have magnanimous effects on the world, and not just financial institutions alone. The economic climate all over the world has changed and that too in a very negative way. The manner in which states have been able to change the behaviors of the people from a futuristic angle comes directly under the aegis of moral hazards. The solution for the same is to bail out the banks so that these could avoid the short term issues and problems and hence benefit the common man. There must be stop gap solutions so that people do not suffer on the same count, however little was done to address the issues that plagued the life of commoners. The financial companies have a responsibility to meet the needs of the people and to regulate the banking sector and the government cannot be allowed to have its own under such extreme circumstances (Pettinger 2008). The credit crunch came about because banks made loans of serious amounts and had little respect for the proposition of repaying. The mortgage loans were increased since a number of different ways were devised and hence these stra tegies did not benefit the common man when the credit crunch came down quickly. The homeowners are now at a severe risk of mortgage defaults and hence they cannot fathom something sane to happen within their respective ranks. The entire financial system of the world has suffered due to the steps undertaken by the people who are at the helm of affairs within these financial institutions. The consumers for mortgage have suffered on the same count, if not less. The sales pitches given by mortgage people were very aggressive and this led
Globalisation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1
Globalisation - Essay Example Cities in Australia such as Perth and Brisbane offer attractive investment opportunities to potential investors leading to the rise in capital growth rate. Australian cities like Melbourne, Adelaide, Bribane and Perth are also known for the low cost of living prevailing compared to other capital cities in the world. These Australian cities are ranked top 30 globally for the high life quality. Current exchange rates against other currencies are exceedingly friendly in Australia hence making it ideal for foreign investors who wish to make purchases in Australia. The explanation for this is that they have the capacity to buy more than what they would have bought in their own countries with the same amount. Low interest rates in its economy enable investors get big loans from banks, which thereafter yield significant returns that boost the countryââ¬â¢s GDP. The Australian government put a lot of money into available growth opportunities hence making it possible for the countryââ¬â ¢s economy to survive economic hard times (McLean 7). Question 2 Although Australia is ranked as one of the best-performed economies in the developed world, its citizens are pessimistic about their economy. Some of its citizens thinks that their economy over-rely on non-renewable natural resources for energy used both locally and for export,they claim that they may run at a loss when coal deposits are depleted from the mines. Other citizens do not enjoy the use of coal as a source of energy in their country, they claim that use of coal is one of the major contributors of global warming hence they ask the government to invest on other modes of energy production. Australianââ¬â¢s economy is dominated by small to medium sized enterprises. The entire countryââ¬â¢s population thinks that these SMEââ¬â¢s lack proper management teams compared to larger companies hence performing poorly in the economy. The citizens think that government should provide relevant training to the entre preneurs to improve their performance. Further still, many citizens perceive the strength of the countryââ¬â¢s currency negatively. They believe that it blamable for increasing unemployment rates as many people have lost their jobs in leading companies like Toyota. This has exposed how fragile the manufacturing sector is. Countryââ¬â¢s economists blame the Australian dollar for damaging the market at international level. This is because, of the increase of prices of Australian goods. As a consequence, the demand of countryââ¬â¢s locally produced goods is decreasing with a notable rate (Martin 1). Citizens have also noted that its government has not put enough money on technology development hence importing more than exports on ICT. Government is also blamed for making its IT purchases outside the country, yet same equipments are available in local companies. Question 3 Chinaââ¬â¢s economic growth and technological advancement have drawn investorsââ¬â¢ and governmentâ â¬â¢s interest. As such, Australia should take the lead and welcome Chineseââ¬â¢s increasing foreign investment. Australia benefits from it both directly and indirectly. Given that Australia do not invest much on ICT, China gets to supply them with the ICT equipment since it is known as an of the ICT equipments exporter. If Australia accepts to trade with China government, it will get a chance to negotiate better prices on its ICT purchases hence reducing import costs. Australia also exports its
Friday, October 18, 2019
Week 9 Discussion 2 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words
Week 9 Discussion 2 - Assignment Example It is also significant in demonstrating the cash generating ability of the company which balance sheet the balance sheet fails to show. It reveals the cash needed to maintain plant efficiency and level of operations. It provides information regarding the liquidity of the firm stock issuance, dividend payment, plant asset disposal, machinery purchase, and net change in inventory, accounts receivable and payable. The balance sheet conceals most of this information (Comiskey & Mulford, 2005). Cash flow statements reports cash movements in operating, investing and financing activities thus helping investors and creditors to generate future cash flows through estimations on amounts, unpredictability of future cash flows and timing. It also provides a basis of setting debts, paying employees and honoring dividends. The net income determines whether the company is making a profit or a loss making it easier for creditors, employees and stockholders to judge the profitability of the company (Marius & Oberholster, 2007). Any financial statement reader easily understands the change of assets and liabilities within the trading period. Cash flows help the stockholders to obtain information regarding the dividend due. For instance, in 2010 Google piled more than $26 billion amounting to about 20% of the value of the company. It was prompted to release much of cash to shareholders (Marius & Oberholster,
Mice oxygen consumption rate Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words
Mice oxygen consumption rate - Essay Example Warm-blooded animals maintain thermal homeostasis via internal metabolic processes; hence, endotherms can remain active over a broad range of ambient temperature (Stanier 79). # 2 Define metabolic rate Metabolic rate refers to the amount of energy utilized in a set period. Metabolic rate represents the pace at which energy can be utilized by an organism and encompasses the integration of all catabolic energy transformations in the body, as well as the intensity and speed of life itself. The metabolic rate may be enhanced by several processes of considerable ecological significance including tissue synthesis, food processing, and physical activity. The metabolic rate remains closely related to the rate of ATP production measured by cellular respiration (oxygen consumption or carbon dioxide production. Metabolism represents the set of life-sustaining chemical transformations in the cells of living organisms. Metabolism also refers to all chemical reactions that manifest within living o rganisms including transport of substances (Cannon and Nedergaard 242). # 3 Factors that affect metabolic rate The metabolic rates can be essentially determined by relatively few factors, namely: temperature, phylogenetic affinities, and mass. The body temperature possesses pervasive impacts on biological processes via the influence of temperature on the activity of metabolically significant enzymes. The metabolic rates double or triple in the event that body temperature increases by 10à °C. The absolute levels of metabolism that the temperature levels establish may be subject to acclamatory or evolutionary changes through the alteration of enzyme structure or composition. In endotherms, the impacts of the core thermal dependence may be surpassed by the physiological regulation of body temperature, which is energetically expensive ((Navas and Jose? 13). One of the primary factors impacting on metabolic rate is boy size or body mass. The metabolic rate interspecifically relates with body mass. Individuals with greater body weight manifest a higher resting metabolism relative to smaller individual since their body would have to work ââ¬Å"harderâ⬠to support and sustain the extra weight. This theory stipulates that, endothermic animals must metabolically generate enough body heat to balance the heat lost via their body surface if they were to maintain a constant body temperature. Phylogeny: The metabolic level differs among taxa, whereby the phylogenetic history of an animal determines the rate of energy expenditure (Navas and Jose? 15). Moreover, men usually possess less body fat and more muscles relative to women of the same weight and age, which leads to burning of more calories. As people get older, the size of the muscle tends to reduce, which in turn slows down calories burning. # 4 How metabolic rate is dependent on the ambient external temperature The temperature of an animal relies on the amount of heat contained within the animalââ¬â¢s body. Animals can absorb or lose heat from or to the environment via several processes such as convection, conduction, radiation, and evaporation. The amount of heat transferred into or out of an animal hinges on the surface area, heat
Thursday, October 17, 2019
What is the current practice of applying simulation modeling in the Essay
What is the current practice of applying simulation modeling in the oil and gas industries - Essay Example Simulation modeling is the process of creating computer models that represent the actual production and important logistics processes in the oil industry. The process not only considers the viability of the designed project but it is useful in the prediction of uncertainty such as weather in the oil industry. The aspect of uncertainty is incorporated into the models as random variable, these variables represents uncertain events such as equipment breakdown and destructive weather condition. The system depends on statistical distribution to determine frequency and patterns that determine the occurrence of uncertain events. Using simulation enables the players of the oil industry to work with proven methodologies that reduce or eliminate possible risks (Lanner, 2008). Like most models simulation depend heavily on the use of symbols and animation to represent key factors in the production and logistic sector of the industry. The models therefore use these symbols and animation to represent movements of ships between ports and stations. The models also have appropriate symbols that represent the variation of inventory according to demand and production. Most simulation screens have unique icons that represent facilities, equipments, and products. With the current improvements in technology, simulation applies the latest simulation software and graphical technology to enhance accuracy through the projection of 3D images. These images provide a good representation of real equipments and facilities that promote communication the concerned (GÃ ³rski, 2006). Simulation is not only important in the design and decision-making but its application results in massive benefits. The first application of simulation model that is of great significance to the industry is the validation of new receiving and shipping terminals. The models are also
Impact of Agricultural Revolution on Relationship between Men and Essay
Impact of Agricultural Revolution on Relationship between Men and Women, Civilization - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that the dawn of Ice Age provided abundant natural resources to the human being and allowed them to settle at one place rather than wandering between places for food and other natural resources. People started to build permanent settlements and started to live in gatherings by cultivating certain grasses such as oats, wheat and barley which catered to the needs larger groups of people. As people started to live in settlements and communities, agricultural continued on large scales which lead to critical changes in the society. According to Shard, man and women, both, used to roam different places in search of food while agricultural revolution made man to work harder to dominate natureââ¬â¢s processes. During this period, people tried to deliberately alter the ecological system by cultivating the soil, selecting seeds, and breeding animals that could help them survive. The change in the lifestyle of the people who has undertaken agricult ure instead of hunting was enormous and profound as they live with us even today. The revolution had several impacts on various factors including the lifestyle of men and women, their relationship and future civilization. As world was witnessing the end of ice age, most of the people settled at one place so that they could exploit the natural resources for their own good. This led to creation of permanent settlements and population growth as mentioned by Duiker and Spielvogel that the change to systematic agriculture in the Neolithic age affected the relationship and lifestyle of both men and women.
Wednesday, October 16, 2019
What is the current practice of applying simulation modeling in the Essay
What is the current practice of applying simulation modeling in the oil and gas industries - Essay Example Simulation modeling is the process of creating computer models that represent the actual production and important logistics processes in the oil industry. The process not only considers the viability of the designed project but it is useful in the prediction of uncertainty such as weather in the oil industry. The aspect of uncertainty is incorporated into the models as random variable, these variables represents uncertain events such as equipment breakdown and destructive weather condition. The system depends on statistical distribution to determine frequency and patterns that determine the occurrence of uncertain events. Using simulation enables the players of the oil industry to work with proven methodologies that reduce or eliminate possible risks (Lanner, 2008). Like most models simulation depend heavily on the use of symbols and animation to represent key factors in the production and logistic sector of the industry. The models therefore use these symbols and animation to represent movements of ships between ports and stations. The models also have appropriate symbols that represent the variation of inventory according to demand and production. Most simulation screens have unique icons that represent facilities, equipments, and products. With the current improvements in technology, simulation applies the latest simulation software and graphical technology to enhance accuracy through the projection of 3D images. These images provide a good representation of real equipments and facilities that promote communication the concerned (GÃ ³rski, 2006). Simulation is not only important in the design and decision-making but its application results in massive benefits. The first application of simulation model that is of great significance to the industry is the validation of new receiving and shipping terminals. The models are also
Tuesday, October 15, 2019
Human resource management and performance in health care organisation- Essay
Human resource management and performance in health care organisation- the NHS - Essay Example There is a range of approaches to managing the healthcare workforce for high(er) performance. In the UK, two streams of activity are evident: the first focuses on making the NHS a ââ¬Ëgood employerââ¬â¢ thereby recruiting and retaining ââ¬Ëgood staffââ¬â¢, which could be called human resource (HR) management; the second approach concerns rethinking how to provide ââ¬Ëhigh quality servicesââ¬â¢ as ââ¬Ëefficientlyââ¬â¢ as possible, which could be called ââ¬Ëdifferent ways of workingââ¬â¢. Such approaches are often referred to as ââ¬Ëmodernisationââ¬â¢ (see Bach 2002). However, Seifert and Sibleyââ¬â¢s argument that ââ¬Ëmodernisationââ¬â¢ is not a neutral step forward but a highly coloured version of progress rooted in market-style efficiencyââ¬â¢ (2005: 226) indicates the contentious nature of such terminology. ââ¬ËDifferent ways of workingââ¬â¢ is an attempt to avoid value judgements on the process and outcome of the different ways of working for employees, employers and service users. Given that the UK NHS is the third largest employer in the world, employing 1.3 million staff in 2004, it provides a useful case study to illustrate the processes, outcomes and questions raised by both streams of work. The paper begins by outlining characteristics of the healthcare workforce in the UK and the challenges raised for managers. Against this background, the paper reviews the rationales put forward for HR management and different ways of working, providing recent UK examples of both types of initiatives. We use the Changing Workforce Programme as an example to provide an illustration of some issues which should be of particular concern to managers endeavouring to get the best from their healthcare workforce. Healthcare organisations are characteristically made up of a large proportion (around 50%) of professionally qualified staff providing frontline services to recipients of healthcare. This type of organisational arrangement has been called a ââ¬Ëprofessional
Monday, October 14, 2019
Re-organization and Layoff Team Discussion & Summary Essay Example for Free
Re-organization and Layoff Team Discussion Summary Essay Mismanaged layoffs can go horribly wrong. The effect of mismanaged LAYOFFs on the remaining workforce and the effects, lack of management preparation, the human condition, and lack of mitigation strategies. We think that the problem with this article is that not enough managers or HR personal, know how to let a person go from their employment effectively. They sometimes dont realize the impact that it has on the other employees morals. Also, that sometimes companies dont take a closer look to make sure downsizing will be the answer to cutting costs like they think that it will. Every HR or manager should be let go in their lifetime so that they know what it feels like. I believe that this statement holds tremendous merit because the best lessons in life are learned through personal experience. In order to adequately communicate life changing messages of sorts, it should be done by a seasoned manager. I will be very surprised if any company has a potential layoff learning path that will coach and train the management staff for these kinds of things. It is imperative to be sensitive to the individual being laid off as this will impact their livelihood significantly. I do agree that other options much is explored such as relocating or wage cuts before making the decision to lay off people. The Problem Layoffs create uncertainty in the workforce causing loss of productivity in remaining the remaining workforce. The article addresses that a managers approach is paramount; we dont disagree with this sentiment, but I dont see it as a large of an issue as the author of the article. If a company is at a point where they are laying off employees, all other options should have been exhausted. The author writes the article from the position that managers dont know how manage and that layoff are ineffective. I agree layoffs are not useful, but an amount of respect or approach refinement isà going to make the loss of income any easier; I compare that to putting lipstick on a pig. Trying to make a bad situation easier is often more disrespectful than being direct. Firing is something that is done privately and should be kept confident between the manager and the employee being let go. If a manager is letting, someone go for the right reasons the example should be evident to the employees as cause and effect; being held accountable for their actions. If the Manager is abusing their hiring/firing authority that would affect employee morale; forced silence, uncertainty, etc. Problem Solutions The options that were covered in the group discussion I feel very informative. When it comes to releasing someone, whether it is a termination or a layoff, it was discussed if training for those types of situations would be suitable, or if one could even prepare to carry out something of that delicate nature. You can train someone how to do anything, but that does not necessarily mean it will be conducted in the manner it was taught. I think it all highly depends on the situation and the individual who is delivering the news to the employee. The authors best point is one of the best solutions; transparency. Managers should allow people the autonomy of reacting, working through, and coping with a layoff in their own way. Transparency is the most respectful approach that management can take as it shows them the truth of the situation and explains the steps being taken and why. I would add rather than trying to find another position within the company as suggested (the company is already struggling!?) they could offer employment assistance to other enterprises; communicate with other organizations in the same industry to identify openings that people would fit into well. They could put together a communications package that shows them what benefits are available, assistance programs, etc.
Sunday, October 13, 2019
Atchafalaya: River Control :: essays research papers
à à à à à The Atchafalaya is the most original basins because it has a growing system with very stable wetlands. It is also the biggest river swamp in North America but has lost about 3,760 acres between 1932 and 1990. The loss of the wetlands is primarily due to erosion, human activities, and natural conversion. Many human activities, such as oil and gas pipelines, have interrupted the movement of flow and sediment within the wetlands that it is another factor in the loss of acres for the Atchafalaya. But there is not a total loss in this, the Atchafalaya have also positive outlooks on things. The basin consists of more fish compared to any other natural water system in North America. Let alone the production and distribution of three types of crawfish found in Atchafalaya. The crawfish is the main moneymaker for New Orleans fish markets. But the crawfish may only resemble 10-20% of what is caught. Most of it results in bycatch, organisms caught in the shrimp nets that ar e discarded, and the Atchafalaya is seen some times as a floating graveyard of different expired species. à à à à à Unfortunately, natural delta growth has been hampered by dredging activities along the main navigation channel. Dredge materials have been placed along side the channel, there by choking off the natural supply of fresh water and sediment to the marsh. TO solve this problem Atchafalaya sediment projects were designed to restore fresh water and sediment delivery processes to the Atchafalaya delta. Within 20 years, this is expected to create an additional 3,000 acres of wetland habitat. à à à à à Out of the 50,000 acres of Atchafalaya, three fourths of it is privately owned. The only way this is determined is if the land accretes from the shore of a lake or a bayou, it is the property of an owner. But if the land accretes as an island, the state owns it; making it an imbalance between government and private landowners. Most landowners are not looking at Atchafalaya as a historical landmark, but for what is worth under the waterââ¬â¢s surface as money value. These wetlands support a 1 billion dollar annual fishery industry, therefore making these wetlands a positive outlook on the employment opportunities for the Louisiana people. Many fishermen make a living off of the marine species inhabiting the Atchafalaya. But the employment for this occupation is decreasing because of the land loss. Making it difficult for fishermen to understand what is government owned and what is privately owned.
Saturday, October 12, 2019
Hofstede?s Value Dimensions Essay -- essays research papers
Hofstede's value's system Dimensions of Values The affect the four dimensions, Power Distance, Uncertainty avoidance, Masculine/femininity and Individual v. Collectivism have on organzational behavior shows in all cultures and cross cultures. As with power distance when dealing with other cultures you have to adapt your company values to that of the society in which you live and the people that you employ and the public that you deal with. In organizational behavior you have to be able to adapt or willingly participate and follow through on those culture beliefs of society. So your management structure has to follow the structure of that society while understanding uncertainty avoidance knowing that certain cultures like to have rules stressed, want work regulated and are willing to work hard, conform to standards and are very secure in their jobs. While some other cultures don't have as many rules or less conforming, security is not as stressed and hard work is not seen as normal life, although if you are willing to stand out by doing a job that is not expected or coming up with an idea this is more valued because it is seen as taking a risk. In addition to power distance and uncertainty avoidance affecting organization behavior there is also the Masculinity/Femininity cultures. In this area you will find certain cultures that are clearly masculine, where the dominance of men is supported and economic success is based on the men being in charge while at the same time so...
Friday, October 11, 2019
Terry Gilliam
To tell you the truth, last Friday I really did try to watch the movie and keep myself awake but no matter what, I still kept on dozing off. Although I was able to understand a bit, I still had to watch It again for me to have a better and deeper feel of the story. Knowing that It was produced In 1985, I would say that the plot and setting was pretty genius. The lead actor had to be really good to pull It off or else everything would have been so awkward.Well actually, the movie did not Interest me t all, I got really bored watching It, not because It Is badly written nor directed, It Is Just that It Is not my kind of movie but I really did appreciate Brazil; Its story, actors, direction, technique, script and everything else, I find It really brave of them to produce a movie such as that. I think it was really risky since not everyone can grasp the full implications of satire movies. L, too, had a hard time understanding everything: I had to read articles online just so I could full y get it.The message that the film wants to convey to the viewers is really extreme, to the point that not everyone can get it since some would think that it is only mere entertainment. I think it was creatively presented but it did not have any impact on me. There are those movies that would make you realize stuff about life, there are those that will make you cry and sad, there are those that will make you want to fall in love but Brazil, well it is imaginative but it really is not my kind of movie.
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Analysis of the Unforgiven
Analysis of Unforgiven Brenda J. Thompson ENG 225: Introduction to Film Nathaniel Millard October 5, 2009 Summary While the movie Unforgiven (1992) directed and starring Clint Eastwood, as William Munny, is in the genre of a western in the late 1800ââ¬â¢s. It has a basic theme that we are still making movies about today, justice and what is acceptable and what is not acceptable in our search for it. It is a story of a journey that one man has to make in order for him to care for his children but it ends up being so much more of a journey than he anticipates. This movie is the ultimate of good versus evil on a couple of different levels. It is good guy versus bad guy and it is the evil within fighting the good within and the constant battles that both of these different levels bring to the main character and the other characters of this film. Does justice prevail in this film? Level of Ambition This movieââ¬â¢s level of ambition was that of a typical Clint Eastwood film, straightforward, deep and controversial. Clint Eastwood is known through his characters as the hard, smart talking, no nonsense, afraid of nothing type casted actor and so his films that are directed by him bring a whole new level to that type of character. He brings the softer side to these characters that we do not expect to see. He reveals the inner dilemma within his character to show that just because someone has done some really horrible things in their lives that does not mean that they do not have internal struggles between what is right and what is wrong. The consciousness of the guilt, the validation, and the justification of what he is doing, eats at him and his inner struggles that come with knowing what he has done but seems to diminish over the length of the movie. It seems to get easier for him to accept what needs to be done and just does it even though he no longer wants to do it. Thematic Elements The central idea of this film is injustice and what can happen when an injustice is made right in the eye of the beholder. This movie had hit on several different perspectives regarding its focus and was dependent upon which character it was highlighting at the time. One of those perspectives being from that of the main character William and his constant battle within himself to stay true to his goodness and not to allow the old evil side out. Another perspective is that of the working women who just want to be respected and not feel as though they are personal property. The Sheriff, Little Bill, who was played by Gene Hackman had of course another perspective on the whole situation which was to play off the entire ordeal by fining the two culprits instead of arresting them. With that being said, this film covered several categories regarding a central idea and subordinate ideas. Although I found injustice to be the central idea, I also felt that there were other categories that were touched on. Truth of human nature (Boggs & Petrie, 2008, pg. 26) and how even though this took place in 1880 you could still feel the injustice today and feel those feelings that were portrayed by the characters wanting to make this right although not all the characters wanted to make it right for the same reasons. The social problems that were in this film, which were the crimes against women, social acceptance and the draw that money has always and forever will have on us as a society are still prevalent today therefore we can understand and appreciate what is happening. We know now as a society that we cannot take the law into our own hands but in 1880 it was prevalent and more acceptable therefore we can relate as maybe we wish he could sometimes take the law into our own hands and make an injustice right when one has been wronged. Setting and Set Design The filming took place in the wilderness of Alberta, Canada and one scene (the train scene) in California. The majority of the scenes were either out in the wilderness or within the small town of Big Whiskeyââ¬â¢s saloon and the adjacent main street during the fall and winter season of 1880. The buildings were dark, small and gloomy on the inside and due to the fact that the majority of the movie took place in the nighttime hours and it was stormy more than not, the outside was just as gloomy as the inside. The lighting was minimal as it would have been back then bringing mood with it. The foreshadowing of the stormy weather worked in making this movie what it was, the rain seemed to let you know when something was coming. As much as the wilderness scenery was beautiful, I found it downplayed by the drab colors of the costumes and the non use of color throughout the entire film. It seemed as though the only time color was used was determined by what that particular scene was about. For instance, as English Bob came into town the only item of color was the drab red of the stagecoach, so we knew whoever was in that stagecoach was going to become an important character to a scene coming up, everything else was a muted earth tone of tan, brown, green and blue. As stated in our text a director may simply let their settings just be a backdrop and let the action of that scene take over. (Boggs & Petrie, 2008, pg. 74) This was exactly how this movie was told; it focused on the story instead of glamorizing it with colorful costumes and scenery. We needed to see the drabness of the subject in the muted colors of the movie. Another scene that showed a pop of color was that of William (Eastwood) and Ned (Freeman) were having a conversation where William was trying to make himself and his friend believe that he was no longer an evil person, he no longer drank and no long er killed and at that point their horses walked past some very bright yellow colored trees which just brought a sense of hopefulness to that section of the movie. As if by justifying his goodness it truly made him a good man, the validation from his friend was needed by him as a reminder that he really was a good man, that this couldnââ¬â¢t make him a bad man again because he had been good for so long. Sound and Score The first scene of the movie was that of William Munny in the distance tending to his farming as the sun set on the other side of him. The only sound at that time was that of a very soft playing guitar that had the feeling of a ballad, soft and gentle. For the remainder of the movie the sound and scores were very minimal. Natural outdoor sounds, animals, the breeze, rain were the sounds heard most of the time. Music was minimal and was used for dramatic pauses when no words were necessary and the message needed to sink in or to build up to an upcoming scene. The softness of the music was calming and not too overbearing especially in the action parts of the movie when some directors scream music. Clint Eastwood in this movie chose to use music to ââ¬Å"reinforce the rhythms of the actionâ⬠(Boggs & Petrie, 2008, pg. 375) instead of making it a priority. He used music the same way he used his colors. I found that during the soft reflective moments of the movie that the music was that of a sole guitar or very soft music and when it involved a little more action an orchestra was involved. The most profound sound of all was that of the rain. Depending upon the message coming through made the difference between how hard it was raining and how loud it was heard. Not only was the rain foreshadowing but also the sound of the thunder and lightning that was used. It was letting us know that something was coming, something was going to happen and it was an integral part of the film. Casting and Acting Performances As it is explained in (Boggs & Petrie, 2008, Introduction to Film) ââ¬Å"In the choice of actors, one director may take the safe, sure way by casting established stars in roles very similar to roles they have played before. â⬠Clint Eastwood is well known for his hardened characters and his experience in westerns. I could not imagine any other actor portraying William Munny. Clint Eastwood brings to the table a hardened character that transforms himself from an uncaring murderer to a loving husband and father back to his hardened man that has to make justice where there was none. Little Bill (Hackman) was a typical sheriff of the time where he laid that law with an iron fist and was going to lay that law any way that he could. In the film you want to believe that Little Bill is one of the good guys but in the end he is no better than the men he was trying to run off. In one scene Hackman was explaining that he did not like men of no character or assassins but in true life really was no better than them but justified it to himself with his badge. Morgan Freeman played Ned, William Munnyââ¬â¢s old partner in crime. He had also retired from the killing fields and was now a farmer married to his Indian wife, Sally Two Trees. Ned truly believed he could help his old partner but by the end of the film had realized that he could no longer kill someone and chose to return to his wife but not before being captured by Little Billââ¬â¢s crew and ultimately killed. Freeman brings a sense of calmness, stability and outright warmth to the film and breaks up the stark harshness of William Munnyââ¬â¢s character and the haracter of Scolfield Kid, played by Jaimz Woolvett, a young man looking to make some money but has no experience with that of a paid assassin or of life experiences in general. He was a simple character but one that grew throughout the film to make a realization that his view point on a glorified act has sharply turned and took another route. As the characters seem to complement each other and all of the actors seemed to fit each character to a tee, there are not too many actors in my m ind that could have lived up to the actors that were chosen for these roles. I found one character flat but only because she was written that way, I do not blame the actress as I think she did a great job, it was the character as a whole. Screenplay and Narrative Structure Clint Eastwood, as the director, chose to tell this story very simply by filling the audience in with a written narrative in the first scene. It tells you about the main character prior to this time in his life without taking up more time than was needed. It was straightforward and simple. It was not told through any one character but you could feel the story through each of the characters it was focusing on in that scene. As there is no way of knowing how the screenplay was written it is hard to tell if Eastwood followed what the screenwriter had envisioned or what he envisioned but for what it is worth, Eastwood brought himself to this film in a way that shows not only the hard side of a prior life of killing but the softer side of a man that chose the good of a woman and wanting to please her. There is also a narrative at the end of the film that lets us know that William Munny chose in the end, his children and his wifeââ¬â¢s goodness. He chose to leave and moved himself and children to Los Angeles and works productively in dry goods. We know that not only did he make it through that darkness but came full circle twice. He started out killing, bettered himself with the help of his late wife, killed again when his friend was killed because of the act that he committed and then went back to the goodness when he felt as though justice had been served. Once his friend was killed and he took a drink of the alcohol, he lost himself in his old ways as the anger and guilt came bubbling out. Once he felt as though he had righted a wrong, he took his children away from all of the bad and started anew. Objective Evaluation Overall this film was successful in bringing to an audience a western drama with compassion, with ignorance, with greed, with honesty. It showed the softer side of a killer, one side we donââ¬â¢t normally see in a film, we saw the journey of a man trying to find who he is without being defined as an assassin and the struggles within that journey. By suppressing the colors and tones of the film and leaving the lighting at a minimal it really focuses on the feelings and the story as a whole. It wasnââ¬â¢t about the actions but about how people react to certain situations (especially when information is misconstrued) for an example, this all started by a whore getting cut in the face but by the time the information was received by William Munny, the crime had more than doubled in severity. If the story of the cutting had stayed true would this story ever had happened? Would the characters have wanted to kill those men if they had known she still had her fingers and such? Maybe that was what William Munnyââ¬â¢s inner struggle was about once he had met the cut woman. The story was easy to follow and William Munnyââ¬â¢s character was easy to like, he had been trying to live right for 11 years but when he realized he couldnââ¬â¢t provide for his children because the pigs were getting sick, he had to resort to what he knew he was good at. Only problem was that he found that he was extremely rusty at it, from his shooting skills to his eyesight, he wasnââ¬â¢t the same at it and it didnââ¬â¢t feel good to do. The emotions in this film were portrayed wonderfully from Alice the fiery working girl to the laid back calm character of Ned. You could feel their emotions and understand them and connect with them as people. Final Analysis In closing, the movie Unforgiven was a great movie filled with emotion and heroism. Although this movie was about injustice and human nature, it was also about healing, renewing and hope. As gloomy as the subject matter was, it was also about hope and realizing that no matter what you have done in the past you can make a choice or choices and make a new life that doesnââ¬â¢t have to involve criminal behavior. People like to think that justice always prevails so this movie provides that. It provides justice for the girls but at the same time caused a ripple effect and they got more than what they had bargained for, not expecting as much bloodshed as this one incident had caused. Clint Eastwood and the other cast members made this story a believable one. Not only is Munny (Eastwood) a somewhat cold type of character you end up seeing sides to him that make you like him as a person. Not only are we willing to forgive his past, we want to see him succeed whereas Little Bill (Hackman) was in a position of superiority and used it to intimidate and manipulate his way of running things. I found this character to be arrogant which showed when in building his home, asked no one to help him. Clearly it was needed. The only character I found to be flat was that of Delilah (Anna Levine), victim of the cutting. I can understand that her character might be a little timid after the ordeal but found her to be flat throughout the rest of the film and wish she had more of an impact. Overall this movie was a nice movie to watch. Not only was it easy to follow it made you want to continue watching to see what happens. The characters are believable and the storyline tells an entire story. The use of muted colors and natural sounds lent to the mood and tone of the entire movie. The focus is of the story neither the scenery nor the costumes but was strong enough to stand on its own without going over the top. Not only was this film a western but a drama as well, great for men and women as it touches emotions and evokes emotions on both sides of the gender box. References Boggs, J. , & Petrie, D. (2008). The Art of Watching Films (7th Ed. ) with tutorial CD-ROM. Mountain View, CA: Mayfield. ISBN: 9780077282301à Peoples, D. W. & Eastwood, C. (Writer/Director). (1992). Unforgiven [Motion Picture]. Hollywood: Warner Bros. Pictures
Poe’s “The Black Cat” as an Example of Gothic Story
Poe's ââ¬Å"The Black Catâ⬠as an Example of Gothic Story Edgar Allan Poe, who lived a short and tragic life, was mainly known for his gothic stories embedded in the atmosphere of terror and suspense, with insane protagonists placed in gloomy settings. He is considered to be a horror-master and his literary output renders him a father of the detective story and one of the most prominent gothic story writers (Fisher 2004: 81). The Black Cat, first published in 1843 in The Saturday Evening Post (Sova 2007: 35), is one of many visible instances of Poeââ¬â¢s talent in writing gothic fiction.Beyond the shadow of a doubt, it is an excellent example of a gothic story due to its numerous features characteristic of this genre (Hayes 2004: 85). Although gothic fiction is a genre which was born in England at the end of the 18th century, it was soon well-received in the United States, where it influenced a wide array of writers. It was primarily based on the European Romantic Movement b ut over the course of time, tragic and supernatural dimensions were added to these stories as the leading themes in America. The genre has a number of characteristics, one of which is the setting.Main protagonists are usually placed in an old, abandoned castle, with secret chambers and passages. The action of gothic stories take place in dark, spooky and dismal places. The plot is very often mysterious and some unexplainable events occur on regular basis. Gothic authors try to produce an atmosphere of suspense in their works by creating unpredictable characters, who struggle with madness, anger and acts of panic, in order to threaten the readers. The charactersââ¬â¢ state of mind, their feelings and emotions, frequently take precedence over the plot.Ghosts and supernatural events are more than common in gothic texts and so are the tormenting visions and unlucky omens that often haunt the main characters. What is more, female characters who appear in such stories, for instance, ar e often put in distress, threatened and dominated by enraged males (Childs and Fowler 2006: 99-100). The Black Cat is a story narrated by an unnamed storyteller who at the very beginning, claims to be totally sane and rational and states that he is sentenced to death and will be killed the following day.Thus, he wants to reveal his dark secrets and make a confession to unburthen his soul (Badenhausen 1992: 487). From the start, the reader is made to perceive the narrator as an average man who loves his wife and is a great admirer of animals. The story, set in an ordinary house with nameless characters, changes over the course of the action into a thorough description of the narratorââ¬â¢s mental state and his acts of madness. Still, no further details on the lives of the main protagonists, including their profession or age, are provided as the story unfolds.The storyteller, due to his addiction to alcohol, becomes an abusive monster who ends up murdering his wife while attempting to kill the cat (Fisher 2004: 209). The narratorââ¬â¢s wife is a character whose love to animals, as opposed to her husband, is unconditional and unwavering. By following the gothic convention of literature, The Black Cat can be read as a story of the clash of masculinity and femininity (Fisher 2004: 86). One of features of the gothic fiction, as mentioned above, is presenting the female character in distress.Gothic writers very often try to present the relations between the tyrannical and impulsive male and a feeble and helpless female. The narrator in The Black Cat was, as a young boy, a very tender and delicate man (Stark 2004: 260). Nonetheless, his behavior over the course of time changed drastically. Heavy drinking alters his life as well as the lives of his nearest ones including his wife and pets. Still, no information on why the narrator hits the bottle is given in the text (ibid: 260-261). The shift in his behavior is very abrupt and unexpected.The plot progresses so q uickly that it is hard to see when exactly the storyteller becomes a mad man. ââ¬Å"I grew, day by day, more moody, more irritable, more regardless of the feelings of othersâ⬠. The bullied wife faces the acts of violence of her husband tacitly and she seems to be subordinated by him, perhaps even afraid of rebelling against him. The couple does not have any children and the wife has no one who would support her and stand up for her in front of her cruel spouse (Bliss 2009: 97; Badenhousen1992: 493; Sova 2007: 36). The narrator bluntly says, ââ¬Å"I now blindly abandoned myself, my uncomplaining wife, alas!Was the most usual and the most patient of sufferersâ⬠. Pluto, the animal from the title and, simultaneously, the object of the narratorââ¬â¢s madness, is a key character in the story. In the narratorââ¬â¢s mind, his favorite pet turns all of a sudden from a lovely little friend into a beast which frightens him. ââ¬Å"A faithful and sagacious catâ⬠, as descr ibed at the beginning, used to be the best playmate of the narrator. For many long years, they enjoyed spending time together. The horror of the pets and the wife begins when the narrator starts to drink alcohol.Nevertheless, he admits that he is aware of the dramatic change in his behavior caused by the addiction and he sees that he has started treating his wife and his pets badly (Sova 2007: 36). One night, after returning home drunk, the narrator gouges the catââ¬â¢s eye out using a pen knife. A horrible deed, described in one sentence, is followed by a paragraph starting with ââ¬Å"When reason returned with morningâ⬠in which the narrator describes his internal feelings after committing the act and the feeling of guilt which vanishes as soon as he starts drinking again.The above cited sentence proves the narratorââ¬â¢s awareness of the brutality of his actions, but the subsequent events show that at the same time, he does not feel any remorse (Bliss 2009: 97). Still, one morning, not long after cutting out the eye, the narrator, on a spur of a moment, hangs the cat on a tree in the garden. His explanation is utterly illogical: with tears in his eyes he says, ââ¬Å"Hung it because I knew that it had loved me, and because I felt it had given me no reason of offence; ââ¬â hung it because I knew that in so doing I was committing a sinâ⬠(Sova 2007: 35).The latter citation clearly proves the Gothicism of the story. A mad man murders an innocent cat only because it was good. A deed so illogical that it cannot be explained rationally. One bloody act, aimed at playing on emotions, giving a thrill, kindling the feeling of terror and cruelty in readers, is just a beginning of the murdering path that the narrator takes (Bliss 2009: 98). The night after committing ââ¬Å"the deadly sinâ⬠the fire breaks up, burning down the dwelling place of the storyteller, destroying his fortune, and leaving him in despair.The next day, a strange figure, a n apparition of a gigantic cat, appears on the wall, the only wall that survived the fire. To explain the strange figure on the wall, the narrator suggests that the cat was thrown to the room by someone at the night of the fire and as he puts it, ââ¬Å"the falling of other walls compressed the victim of my cruelty into the substance of the freshly-spread plaster; the lime of which, with the flames, and the ammonia from the carcass, had then accomplished the portraiture as I saw itâ⬠. Not long after killing Pluto, the narrator finds another cat during one of his bar crawls.The cat looks surprisingly familiar: it has similar fur in dark color and it lacks one eye, just like Pluto. There is, however, one significant difference between these two cats. The second one has a white spot on its fur which at first sight, according to the narrator, is just a spot, but with time, it starts to look like gallows to him (Bliss 2009: 97). The spot on the catââ¬â¢s fur, as well as the sign on the wall after the fire that occurred the night after hanging the first cat, can be perceived as an omen ââ¬â a supernatural element in the story.The fate of the second cat is also different than Plutoââ¬â¢s. Another day, the narrator together with his wife are in the caller doing some housework, an ordinary situation that ends in a dramatic way. The cat, all at once, appears under his ownerââ¬â¢s feet nearly tripping him over. In the act of an unrestrained rage, the narrator takes an axe attempting to kill the cat- the beast. His wife prevents him from committing the murder and in consequence, the killing punch strikes her head (ibid: 98). (â⬠¦) I withdrew my arm from her grasp and buried the axe in her brain. She fell dead upon the spot, without a groanâ⬠. The narrator in only two sentences describes the killing of his own wife. Not only is he imperturbable after perpetrating the brutal murder, but he also becomes preoccupied with the problem of how to get ri d of the body instead of showing some grief after his wifeââ¬â¢s death. He considers several possible ideas, even ââ¬Å"cutting the corpse into minute fragments, and destroying them by fireâ⬠.The husband, and from now on also the coldblooded killer, considers defacing the body of his once beloved wife just to cover up the entire murder of his. The idea of burying the body in the wall of the cellar is a recurring theme in gothic stories. Poe used this idea also in The Cask of Amontillado, for example (Badenhousen 1992: 490). ââ¬Å"I had walled the monster up within the tomb! â⬠The last sentence of the story emphasizes the gothic mystery visible in the work. An act of burying the wife in the wall must have taken the narrator some time.How could he miss the fact that the cat hid itself in the gap while he was immuring his wife? How did the cat manage to survive four days behind the wall without the fresh air and any food? The questions to which answers remain shrouded i n mystery are major characteristic of this genre. To recapitulate, the story of the cat and its mad owner is undeniably a masterpiece. Each sentence in the text is meaningful and each needs a scrutiny to properly interpret the whole work. The gothic literary convention is mostly visible in the main character, who happens to be the narrator of the story.He scares the reader by being unpredictable, rage-driven and unreliable. Moreover, the pace of the story, keeping the reader in a lasting suspense, and the presence of numerous omens make The Black Cat one of many very elaborate examples of Poeââ¬â¢s gothic stories. References Badenhausen, Richard. 1992. ââ¬Å"Fear and Trembling in the Literature of the Fantastic: Edgar Allan Poeââ¬â¢s The Black Catâ⬠, Studies in Short Fiction 29, 4: 486-498. Bliss, Ann V. 2009. ââ¬Å"Household Horror: Domestic Masculinity in Poe's The Black Catâ⬠, The Explicator 67, 2: 96-99.Childs, Peter and Roger Fowler. 2006. The Routledge Dictio nary of Literary Terms. London: Routledge. Fisher, Benjamin Franklin. 2004. ââ¬Å"Poe and the Gothic Traditionâ⬠, in: Kevin J. Hayes (ed. ), The Cambridge Companion to Edgar Allan Poe. London: Cambridge University Press, 72-91. Sova, Dawn B. 2007. Critical Companion to Edgar Allan Poe: A Literary Reference to His Life and Work. New York: Facts on File. Stark, Joseph. 2004. ââ¬Å"Motive and Meaning: The Mystery of the Will in Poe's The Black Catâ⬠, The Mississippi Quarterly 57, 2: 254-263.
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