Teacher Metaphor Essay Example For Students

Teacher Metaphor Essay Darren Atwaroo27/07/10 96738500 Reflections: Identifying your teaching metaphor I am a heart and my students are the blood that flows through me. As they pass knowledge is pushed through them. I am a fisherfolk and my students are the fish. I try to nourish them by providing bait of different types if they accept it knowledge is obtained. These are just some the metaphors my colleagues’ used to describe themselves in the classroom. Our assignment today was to best describe a metaphor that describes us a teacher. We also identified which teaching orientations we practiced. I used the analogy of a football coach. Like a teacher, the coach tries to mould his players into successful and professional players. He encourages his players to set goals and identify ways in which to achieve them. He highlights personal development through team work and allows players to express themselves on the field by developing their special skills and talents. During our discussions we realised that our teaching metaphor is not cast in stone. We will write a custom essay on Teacher Metaphor specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now As you might consider yourself a gardener today and a drill master tomorrow. For me sometimes my teaching metaphor changes while teaching the same class. As unnecessary and loud disruptions begin, my soft and patient nature suddenly becomes hard and forceful. I am now considering weather or not this Jekyll and Hyde persona is helping my students to improve their growth or keeps boxed in. sure the noise is distracting, but what if I don’t stop them? What might happen after the laughing and singing? A discussion on the topic might begin. Some word, phrase or diagram that sir used might be interesting to them and they might start to talk about it. Through these interactions I feel that learning must be taking place. I should encourage this more in my classroom. My teaching methods were mainly aligned to the power oriented metaphor where I am in charge of the learning environment. Research has found children learn best through their interactions and experiences. Let them be involved in the process of learning, let them to some extent be responsible for shaping their own abilities- through the art of doing. I may now have to integrate an artist approach to my power metaphor. Time to be creative. I am thinking that learning takes place in stages. At the first stage you are given basic information. Only when the learning is able to master this basic information movement to a different stage becomes possible. It is like a stage process, building on knowledge at each stage as you move on. The teacher makes movement possible by being creative and allowing student think critically.

Infomation Terrorism essays

Infomation Terrorism essays The introduction of the computer has created a new type of terrorism known as informational terrorism, which presents a threat, equal to or greater than physical terrorism. E-mail bombs and attacks on internet servers are the lowest forms of informational terrorism in terms of destruction. Higher forms of informational warfare include using the internet as a catalyst to produce physical terrorism on a higher scale. The national security establishment is concerned with a new form of conflict; informational warfare.(Devost, 1) The Department of Defense definition of terrorism is "the calculated use of violence or the threat of violence to inculcate fear; intended to coerce or to intimidate governments or societies in the pursuit of goals that are generally political, religious, or ideological." (Research, 1) While in physical terrorism, the perpetrator must come in contact with the target, in informational terrorism the perpetrator only needs a computer connection. Not only are the tools of information terrorism more accessible but the implications can be more devastating. In conjunction with the Internet and the infancy of its laws, the criminal justice system has fallen behind with its vague set of incoherent laws. Terroristic violence, as portrayed in Tom Clancys Clear and Present Danger, presents a serious threat to the U.S. which should be dealt not only with caution and security, but also in conjunction with response. Identifying international terrorists and their networks providing warning so that protective or deterrent measures can be taken, and gathering information on terrorist acts require a major U.S. intelligent effort. (Wilcox, 1) In Tom Clancys Clear and Present Danger, information is not correctly distributed to U.S. agents causing underestimation of enemies. To rectify the drug problem initiated by Columbia, both the United States and Columbia use physical terrorism to contend ...

The Increasing Incidence of Cancer in Human Beings Essay

The Increasing Incidence of Cancer in Human Beings - Essay Example Based on the information available currently, it is important to find out how cancer stem cells can be identified. Furthermore the colony cultures developed by cancer stem cells with and without chemotherapeutic drugs need greater analysis. Surface expression markers are often utilised to identify various kinds of cancer causing cells. However there is still great controversy to the behaviour of surface expression markers with respect to different kinds of cancer. Only abundant research in this field can help to positively identify surface expression markers to particular forms of cancer. Such research is essential to identifying and treating cancer to save the lives of hundreds of thousands of people. 1. Introduction 1.1. Cancer Cancer is a disease wherein the body’s own cells undergo uncontrolled multiplication and growth that leads to very unhealthy states leading to death. Cancer cells possess four characteristic properties which distinguish them from normal cells which ar e uncontrolled proliferation (growth), altered differentiation and loss of function, invasiveness and metastasis. When cells exhibit the characteristics mentioned above leads to a state of malignant tumor. In case of benign tumors the cells do not exhibit capacity to dedifferentiate, invade surrounding tissue and cause metastasis (Rang et al, 2007). The use of stem cells in cancer treatment is one of the latest developments in treating cancer. Research is being conducted in order to treat cancer using cancer stem cells. Stem cells act by replacing the immune system of unhealthy patient with that of a healthy donor (Clarke et al, 2006). 1.1.1 Incidence of Cancer Globally cancer continues to increase largely....When cells exhibit the characteristics mentioned above leads to a state of malignant tumor. In case of benign tumors the cells do not exhibit capacity to dedifferentiate, invade surrounding tissue and cause metastasis (Rang et al, 2007). The use of stem cells in cancer treatmen t is one of the latest developments in treating cancer. Research is being conducted in order to treat cancer using cancer stem cells. Stem cells act by replacing the immune system of unhealthy patient with that of a healthy donor (Clarke et al, 2006). 1.1.1 Incidence of Cancer Globally cancer continues to increase largely. Clobocan states that around 1.2 million new cancer cases and 7-6 million cancer deaths were witnessed in 2008 alone. The mortality rate for cancer in developing countries displays regional disparities in mortality with chances for cancer being 21% in males and 2% in females. The third most commonly diagnosed cancer in males and second most commonly diagnosed in females is colorectal cancer with almost 1.2 million new cease and 608,700 deaths accounted in 2008. Incidence rates were found to be highest in Australia , New Zealand , Europe and North America while the lowest rates were exhibited in African and South central Asia (Jemal et al , 2011)

Writing to solve Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Writing to solve - Essay Example Increased exercise and workout can result in reducing critical health issues such as obesity. Herein, it should be noted that United States is well-known all around the world as an obese nation. A large budget is spend every year for spreading awareness concerning obesity. Access to public parks can allow the government to cut down on the cost that is being accounted because of the increased prevalence of obesity in United States. Furthermore, as per the recent evaluation, it was observed by the American Journal of Preventive Medicine that if people are given access to areas and activities for physical exercise then the rate of obese people can be reduced to a high extent. At the same time, there were other results noted as well. It was observed that people who had access to public parks were able to regain their energy and remained active in their daily routine. Similarly, various researches found out that children who live closer to Public Parks are more inclined towards making physical activity their routine activity that allows them to maintain their weight right from the early age (Garvin, 2011). However, the critical aspect is that despite increased awareness concerning access to public parks and its impact of health, very few communities in United States have access to the parks. As per the statistical underpinning, the issue of lack of public parks is evident in urban areas of United States. Talking in general about New York City, less than 1.5 public parks are available per 1000 citizens. It is due to this condition that people ignore the significance of undertaking daily exercise. Also, low-income citizens are not able to afford expensive memberships of gyms (Maron, 2013). The major issue or barrier that has been noticed in the planning of public parks is the increased parking lots that take up a lot of area in urban areas such as New York City. Therefore, it is suggested that the high towers such as Corrigan

U03d1 Medicare Level of Care Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

U03d1 Medicare Level of Care - Essay Example There is also a Part D which covers for prescription drugs. The Part D that has been provided with the insurance is for the prescription drugs and this was mainly intended to improve the access of individuals to choose from different health plans based on their individual needs and requirements (Jacobson & Anderson, 2010). The main intension and idea of the Part D was to provide assistance to the senior citizens who were unable to afford a separate drug cover for the prescription drugs. In an article by Shaviro he explains, â€Å"The design of the new prescription drug benefit almost ensures that it will soon be expanded. True insurance provides people with coverage against worst-case scenarios, such as having to pay a lot for healthcare when they become gravely ill. It does not offer first-dollar coverage of routine expenses; this would merely encourage waste and be a handout to anyone who received the coverage without having to pay for it. But true insurance is not politically popular, because if you lose your insurance "bet" by not actually having a catastrophe that would trigger its coverage, you may complain, after the fact, that you didnt get anything out of it† (Shaviro, 2004). There have been numerous views and ideas that have been provided over the years for the viability of Part D of the Medicare. Several authors like Neuman and Cubanski, 2009, explain that one of best ways to reduce the costs is only of the government works towards negotiation with the pharmaceuticals rather than the private companies working towards the negotiations. The authors also talk about another program which will be introduced in 2010, and is known as the voucher demonstration project. To conclude the paper it is safe to say that the future of the Part D is mainly dependent on the costs and the cost cutting would lead to bettered performance of this part

Caring for Child and Family with terminal Illness

Caring for Child and Family with terminal Illness The aim of this assignment is to critically explore the concept of paediatric palliative care and the relevance of a childrens hospice in Ireland. A critical analysis of literature surrounding this topic will be undertaken in order to gain an in-depth understanding. Key elements relating to paediatric palliative care will be highlighted. Finally, the author will conclude on appropriateness of a hospice for sick children. An initial need for palliative care for children was acknowledged in the 1980s; having identified the need for this service, a nun opened and successfully ran a hospice for sick children (Rowse 2008). Interestingly, thirty years on, there is much debate surrounding the advantages and disadvantages of a national childrens hospice in Ireland. However, contrary to beliefs and the success of many hospices, it is recognised by the Department of Health and Children (DOHC) (2001); Rowse (2008); Watson et al (2009); Bishop et al (2008); that children with a life-limiting illness are best cared for at home. In addition, Watson et al (2009) outlined that when the premature death of a child was evident, the option of home, hospice or hospital as a place of death was presented to a child and their family, the majority of children and their families chose home. Caring for a child with a life-limiting illness can be a stressful and exhausting experience; it can put enormous pressures on the family unit (Wolff 2008). From personal experience, a familys dynamics can be seen to change over a period of time when a child is born or diagnosed with a life-limiting illness. Individual family members appear to take up a specific role when faced with a diagnosis of a life-limiting illness. A life limited-illness can be viewed as a condition that has no cure at present and will inevitably lead to the premature death a child (International Childrens Palliative Care Network (ICPCN) 2008; DOHC 2005). However, in many cases of paediatric palliative care it is very difficult to place a time frame on the length of the illness and its trajectory. Watson et al (2009) illustrated that these factors depend greatly on the individual childs diagnosis and the rarity of the illnesses being experienced. The DOHC (2010) identified conditions and diseases that children most commonly suffer with and divided them into 4 individual groups according to their types. However, experience and further reading has demonstrate that, in reality these illnesses dont always stand alone and can be combined with another illness or condition; as a result they may not always fit into a specific group type. Therefore, needs change and vary depending on the individual. While et al (1996) identified that an alarming 60% of children suffering with a life-limiting illness were dying from non cancer related conditions. It would appear difficult to clearly ascertain how long individual paediatric palliative care provisions would needed for, as many of the paediatric cases are unique in there diagnoses and have vast amounts of unknown variables. Similarly, these problems can be mirrored within the adult population of individuals with an intellectual disability, many individuals within this group are living with complex mental/physical illnesses throughout their lives, a further diagnosis of a life-limiting illness and its illness trajectory is surrounded by even more uncertainty (Gary and Stein 2008). Unfortunately, individuals with an intellectual disability are viewed as being one of the most disadvantage groups in society (Ryan McQuillan 2005). It would appear that a comparison could be drawn to a childs position regarding their needs, Watson et al (2009) highlighted that when a child is at an advanced stage within the illness trajectory many problems can occur, however, children unlike adults tend to live many years longer; many parents find this extremely difficult. From the authors experience many individuals with a primary diagnosis of severe intellectual disabilities and a life-limiting illness, appear to live longe r than that envisaged by the doctor. Although it has been acknowledged by the DOHC (2005), that within the trajectory of a child illness, children can cross over in their requirements for care needs throughout their illness due to the individuality of cases. The same has not been recognised within individuals with an intellectual disability. It can be argued that there are similarities between the philosophies of adult and paediatric palliative care. Gaining recognition of these differences has proven difficult to achieve (Richie 2008). In addition to this, Malcom et al (2008) acknowledged that children and adult palliative care principles were comparable, although, the uniqueness and specialist field of paediatric palliative care continues to emerge on its merits. McCulloch et al (2008) identified that paediatric palliative care principles are largely based on adaptation of the adult principles. However, Watson et al (2009) recognised some variations of these were developmental factors, approaches to consultation, physiology/pharmacokinetics, family structure and function, school and finally illness trajectory. Unfortunately, Dangel (2002) acknowledged that in the past some groups of children within Europe, where paediatric palliative care was not recognised or offered as part of multidisciplinary team involvement, a pr edisposing factor for the more recent tapered number of children receiving the provisions and benefits of a palliative care input. Furthermore, The European Association of Palliative Care (2009) advocated that a child should not be compared to that of a small adult, it was reiterated that their individual needs differed to that of an adult, although adult palliative care knowledge and experience can be a valuable and enriched source of expertise. The World Health Organisation (WHO) (2002a) illustrated that adult palliative care aims to improve quality of life for patients and their families with problems associated with life-threatening illness, this can be achieved through the prevention, relief, early identification, holistic assessment and treatment of pain, encompassing all factors associated with physical, psychosocial and spiritual needs. Moreover, the paediatric definition applied by the WHO (1998a) bears a very close resemblance to that of the adult definition, however, central to the paediatric definition is active total care of the childs body, mind and spirit, giving support to the family from the start of diagnose and will continue regardless of whether or not a child receives treatment directed at the disease, this should be a broad multidisciplinary approach availing of community resources provided tertiary care including that of the home. Furthermore, a Report of the National Advisory Committee on Palliative Ca re (2001) stated that, if a child requires a palliative care service due to their life-limiting illness, their individual needs must be addresses and differ from that of adults. As a direct result of the recommendations published within this report, the DOHC (2005) devised a document on the assessment needs of a child needing palliative care. Murphy (2009) cited by Hawley (2010) outlined that the collaboration and interagency workings of professionals and families is key to unlocking the puzzle and viewing the holistic needs of a child and family. Interestingly, Hawley (2010); Gary and Stein (2008); McKechnie (2006) reported that as professionals we only see the needs of individuals based on the experiences and components that our own disciplines allow us to see. The needs of a child are identified by the DoHC (2010), where they foresee the future provision of paediatric palliative care in Ireland. Within this insight there is much change and some encouraging prospects for the field of paediatric palliative care. The main areas within both medical and nursing care that are being addressed are specialist paediatric positions, education and training, co-operation and collaboration between paediatric and palliative care services (DOHC 2005). Furthermore, in light of the primary care strategy DOHC (2001) the focus of health c are is being developed within the community setting, lead by General Practitioners, Public Health Nurses (PHNs) and other members of the multidisciplinary team. The question on many people minds is, is there adequate funding, recourses and trained staff in place to deal with the number of complex palliative care cases? It would appear that the Department of Health and Children and the Irish Hospice Foundation have worked collaboratively in response to the needs of those within the community and paediatric palliative care, concurring with recent advances in publication of paediatric palliative care. However, it would appear that the greatest financial input has come from the voluntary sector. The Irish Hospice Foundation (2010) has vowed to provide somewhere in the region of à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬2.25 million over the next three to five years to fund the cost of providing eight outreach nurses with specific training to work and care for children with life-limiting illnesses. Furthermore, the Jack and Jill Foundation a registered charity, also provide à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬3m annually to families whose children suffer with a form of brain damage, providing them with financial and emotion support in their homes. Hynson et al (2003) identified that as home care is central to paediatric palliative care it would appea r the most appropriate place to begin supporting in the task of improving the quality of life, reducing fears and allowing families to continue with as much normality as possible within their lives. However, in the case where home care is not appropriate or possible due to the complexity of illnesses, lack of trained nurses or that of geographical problems, a hospice may be more appropriate from that of an acute hospital setting. It was been well documented that children with a life-limiting illness and their families needing palliative care support, require a holistic approach to their individual case (Wolfe et al 2000). This can be an extremely challenging experience for the health care professional. To provide adequate care it is important to assess the needs of health care professional as well as the service users needs. Papafadatou (1997) identified that as health care professionals deal with a death of a child, they too can become disheartened by their failed attempts to save a childs life, this can happen on different three levels, firstly, the feeling of not being able to save the childs life, secondly, as a practitioner they could not protect the child from harm and thirdly the feeling of betrayal to the parents who trusted them with their child. The importance of supervision is reiterated by Butterworth and Faugier (1992), where it allows professionals to care for their emotional, social, physical a nd physiological needs. It would appear easier to be achieved within a hospice due to the central locality of staff. Having identified concerns related to paediatric palliative care, is it not more commendable to have a paediatric hospice that encompasses all needs supported by highly skilled staff, adapted and equipment within this specific area of medicine. An advantage of a hospice could be that of continuity of care and expertise management of rare and complex conditions. However, a disadvantage could be taking a child out of its familiar environment, causing fear and anxiety. The DOHC (2005) illustrate that only in exceptional and rare circumstances is taking a child out of its home is in the best interest of the child and their family. It only seems natural that grief associated with life-limiting illnesses will have long lasting effects on a childs siblings and a family as a unit. Wells (2001) outlined that coping with the death of a sibling was an impossible task; a surviving childs self esteem was directly related to the length and trajectory of the illness experience. Many problems can oc cur and personality changes in a surviving child can be seen following the death of a child with a life-limiting illness. However, Groot et al (2005) outlined, that these problems were less apparent when a child was cared for throughout the illness within the home environment. Again, this leads one to believe that the most appropriate place for a child to be cared for is that of the home with extensive provision of palliative care in place. However, Stelle et al (2008) identified little is known about a childs or families rational for attending a hospice. Benini et al (2008) outlines that in the Veneto region of Italy there is a paediatric palliative care network team supported by a regional paediatric hospice, there is a multi-disciplinary team approach with specialist supervision, training and care integrated within acute hospital services. It would appear that when a child is diagnosed with a life-limiting illness, there is a cascade of expert professionals contacted from the hospice, the child and their family then meet with the skilled professionals affiliated to the case to discuss options and resources available to them; as a result they coordinate care accordingly. The ultimate aim is to try getting the child home, pending influencing factors such as locality, staffing and cost, once a home a continuous reassessment of needs is carried out by the family paediatrician who coordinates care and liaises closely with the members of the multi disciplinary team involved. From this model it would appear that the hospice has multi functions. It appears to provide professional expertise, training, skills, knowledge and is a base for experts within the profession. The above concerns are similar to that within Ireland; the optimum locality for a hospice that is accessible to all within Ireland is of great concern. Furthermore, the American Academy of Paediatricians (AAP) (2000) cited by Jennings (2005) illustrated that hospice care is different to that of palliative care, as hospice care offers a package of care incorporating multi-disciplinary team workings. However, within the DOHC (2010) it is envisaged that there will be integration and co-ordination of services in a bid to provide an effective and efficient seamless palliative care service for children with life-limiting illnesses and their families within the home. In order for this to be implemented and carried out there will be an amalgamation of services from all organisations within the healthcare system. The DOHC (2005) reiterates the importance of a key worker to act as a link connecting services. The implementation of a childrens outreach nurse will undertake this role in an attempt to co-ordinate services and facilitate the needs of health and social care professionals, (Department of Health and Children 2010). From the literature, it would appear that nurses have a greater knowledge and experience in dealing with adult palliative care cases (While et al 1996). This is primary due to the limited number of paediatric palliative care cases in Ireland. In 2002 it was believed that there was a population of 1,013,301 children in Ireland (The Government of Ireland 2007). Moreover, the Irish Hospice Foundation (2008) estimated that there are 1,369 children living in Ireland with a life-limiting illness. As there are limited cases of paediatric life-limiting illnesses many cases appeared to be spread over a wide geographical area and this is bound to pose problems for organisations, influencing the levels of available expertise, training and costs European Association of Palliative Care (EAPC) Taskforce (2007). However, under the directions of the DOHC (2010) policy it has recognised that if effective palliative care is required, it can be successfully delivered even if resources are limited. Bear ing this is mind, the DOHC (2001), illustrated that there were three levels of palliative care, a minimum of level 1 should be practiced by all staff indifferent of their area of expertise. The role of outreach nurses incorporates the training needs of staff at a local level (DoHC 2010). Furthermore, within the DoHC (2010) document it states there is a requirement for a consultant paediatrician with an interest in palliative care. However, some criticism with lack of limited research within this field and the majority of guidelines are based on opinions and a need for evidence based medicine Straatman et al (2008). The All Ireland Institute for Hospices and Palliative care (2007) identified that educational programmes were being made available for staff caring for children with a life-limiting illness. This was done in order to raise standards and provide up-to-date evidenced based care for children with a life-limiting illness. However, these programmes are located in Northern Ireland; recent economic difficulties do not promote attendance of staff to courses due to the financial burden and reduced staffing levels within organisations. However, within the current policy the DOHC (2010) have acknowledged that staff should ideally have knowledge, skills and confidence in both childrens and palliative care practices when providing paediatric palliative care. Many of the nurses who are experience within this field appear to work within the acute setting. While et al (1996) identifies that families have expressed a wish that when the time comes their child could die at home, however, there was some unease that without adequate nursing support this would not be possible. The Health Service Executive plan to implement a hospice home care programme, combined with a group of skilled and knowledgeable nurses providing advice and support to parents and other professionals alike who are caring for children at home (DoHC 2010). Benini et al (2008) advocates that a paediatric hospice is an important link within the paediatric palliative care chain, it can aid the transition from hospital to home, with the aim to achieve some normalisation within the childs life and prepare them for the home environment. The Cancer Strategy (2007) sets out principles outlining the ways in which palliative care service for the adult population should be developed and met. This is reiterated globally within the World Health Organisation (2007) document. Moreover, The Department of Aging and Disability Home Care (2004) produced a report more specific to the needs of an individual with intellectual disabilities identifying how policies and procedures can be implemented to achieve standardised practice. On a paediatric level, the publication of a national policy is a starting point for things to come. The DoHC (2010) aims to provide training in paediatric palliative care, thus improving standards for those afflict with a life limi ting illness. Literature informs the author that both the hospice and the home have equal credibility when implementing palliative care principles. However, firsthand experience speaks for itself, Time is precious and whatever time a child has left should be used to ensure they are as happy as possible in a home environment ODwyer-Quinn (2010), this is a profound and very heartfelt message sent out by a mother who suffered the loss of her little girl, 5 years later, she remains heavily involved and at the forefront of paediatric palliative care, contributing and present at the unveiling of the national policy on paediatric palliative care in March this year.

Response to Terrorism: Military Vengeance or Positive Actions? Essay

Response to Terrorism: Military Vengeance or Positive Actions? The issues raised by September 11 are less about constitutional war powers than about war wisdom. Under national and international law the President has legal authority to react in self-defense against this invasion of our territory. Even the most vigorous critics of executive power concede that under the Constitution the President is empowered, in Madison's words, to "repel sudden attacks." One might quibble over whether "repelling" an attack, which in the eighteenth century would have been a land or naval invasion by a foreign state, extends in this era to a military response outside the United States to an attack by unknown forces, but the principle supporting the legitimacy of an immediate response of a military nature seems implicit in the original understanding of executive power. Moreover, Congress has expressly acknowledged that executive power and, in addition, has specifically authorized the use of "all necessary and appropriate force" against the persons and organizations that conducted the attack and those states that aided or harbored the terrorists. Likewise, under international law the United States has the right of self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter, and NATO members have invoked Article 5 of the NATO Treaty, declaring the attack as an "attack against them all," so that each of them is obligated "to take such action as it deems necessary, including the use of armed force, to restore and maintain the security of the North Atlantic area." The legal authority of the President to wage his "War on Terrorism" is therefore clear. The wisdom of doing so is more complex. No doubt some military response will be launched... ...American people better understand the extent and basis of the anger against our country, as well as extending public exposure to the expression of compassion that is common to all religious traditions. Finally, while we affirm our support for Israel, we need to effectively disassociate the United States from support of the Israeli occupation of Palestine. The fundamental changes in policy that I am recommending of course cannot happen quickly, and can only be brought about if accompanied by tangible benefits in terms of cooperation from members of the antiterrorism coalition. Reciprocity is the protection against responding, and appearing to respond, to the attack itself. In the meantime let us hope that military vengeance does not preclude the kinds of positive responses that will actually protect the physical security of the country.

Human Performance Technology Model Essay

The journal I had chosen is â€Å"Minding the gap , identifying performances issues using the Human Performances Technology model (HPT) . † The purpose of this journal is to main a useful model for identifying and addressing employee performance issues in academic libraries , specifically in a Learning Commons . As we know , assessing and improving employee performance , especially library services are always challenging . However , HPT provides methods for evaluating human performances , such as the performance of employees at a service point , and , and provides method in fixing problems that are identified . Most of the time , training is always assumed solution for many performances issues , but HPT suggests that the training is not always the answer and provides a variety of the other solutions referred to intervention . The HPT model created by the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI , 2010 a ) was used to evaluate employee performance at the service point in a newly created Learning Commons . Various interventions are also discussed the address performances issues in libraries. The HPT model may help librarians create measurable performance indicators which can be used to set standard of performances for employees. This model is useful for a combination of student workers, paraprofessionals and librarians. The HPT model comes from field of HPT , which is the combination of education , psychology and business . So , HPT is the process of identifying and analyzing the gap between current performances ( where one is ) and ideal performance ( where one wants to be ) using various tools such as models . Closing the gap can be done through a recommend solution called an intervention. â€Å"Intervention† in HPT refers to a course of action taken to improve performance . Each stage of the HPT process helps one understand the behaviors of people in an organization and of the organization as a whole . HPT aims to analyze observable behaviour both individually and collectively. HPT ensures a through of a variety of areas within an organization in order to understand the performance gap. An analysis of values, norms, culture, structure, performance, and environment is recommended . Through an organization analysis , environmental analysis , gap analysis , can cause those who using HPT analysis determine the performance problem or opportunity . Without careful analysis , inappropriate intervention could be implemented . Intervention should be long term , evolutionary and progressive. Learning Commons in Randall Library at the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW ) was using HPT model to evaluate employee performance. The Learning Commons provides a variety of hardware and software, a centralized service point is included in the middle of the Learning Commons. This service point staffed by librarians who are full time faculty members at UNCW and university’s Technology Assistance Center (TAC) student assistant who are hired to work part time at multiple service points , including the Learning Commons service point , in Randall Library . The primary user group of the Learning Commons is UNCW students . The learning Commons applied HPT after three months opens . The performances issues identified after three months after opening . While some performance issues may ‘work themselves out ‘ overtime , if using the HPT model early in the operation can identify the problems immediately and prevents the problems . Application of the model can helps to identify the root of the causes and helps pinpoint appropriate solution for those issues. An assumption that training is always the appropriate solution for all performances problems can be corrected using HPT . As noted in the HPT model , there are several phases of analysis which are performance analysis , organizational analysis , environmental analysis , gap analysis and cause analysis . A â€Å"cause analysis† follows the performance analysis helps to identify a â€Å"lack of environmental support† or a â€Å"lack of repertory behaviour†. â€Å"Intervention selection ,design , and development† follow all analysis phases . That is because after identify all the gaps or problems , then only can select the appropriate intervention to fix the problem . Main Body and Discussion Human Performance Technology (HPT ) is a systematic approach to improving productivity and competence , it is a strategy for solving problems and for realizing opportunities related to the performance of people . It uses a wide range of intervention to improve individual and organizational performance . There are three fundamental processes to go through . There are performance analysis ,cause analysis and intervention selection . It can be applied to individuals , small groups ,and large organizations . Without identified the causes of the issues , the appropriate intervention impossible to created . Learning Commons in Randall Library at the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) was using HPT model to evaluate employee performance at the service point . First stage of the HPT model calls performance analysis . The â€Å"performance analysis† is to determine if a performance problem exists . A performance analysis includes an organizational analysis , an environmental analysis ,and a gap analysis . The first step in the performance analysis , the organizational analysis , calls for an examination of an organization ‘s vision , mission , values ,goals and strategies . It is important to define the boundaries of the organization before performing this phase in the model . It is useful to examine all departments or offices that closely related to the specific area under examination. The next component of HPT model is environmental analysis . The environmental analysis examines four important factors which are organizational environment, work environment, work, and the worker. In the HPT model, the â€Å"Work Environment† refers to the â€Å"resources, tools, human resources, and policies† of an organization, or in this case, of the Learning Commons. â€Å"Work† is described as â€Å"work flow, procedure, responsibilities, and ergonomics†. â€Å"Worker† refers to the â€Å"knowledge , skill , motivation , expectation and capacity† of an individual . The â€Å"Gap analysis† requires an examination of the actual performance versus the optimal , or desired performance . The information collected through the organizational and environmental analysis . The HPT model shows that the gap falls between the â€Å"Desired workforce performance† and the â€Å"Actual state of workforce performance†. It is important to identify the gaps , then analyze the causes of those gap happens. In Learning Commons , there has a temporary service desk was constructed , new furniture was not yet installed and a formal staff training program was not yet implemented . The performances of Learning Commons service was not optimal and causes a â€Å"gap† between optimal and desired performances . Next is causes analysis . As the HPT model suggests , after the performances gap was identified ,the â€Å"cause analysis† should be completed . The cause analysis can determine why the performance gap exists . Once a cause is identified, one or more interventions can be selected that will be able to close the performance gap . There are some causes for the performances issues . First , data , information and feedback . Initial training and communication of clear roles , responsibilities and expectations were not provided when the Learning Commons initially opened . Second , environment support , resources and tools . Detailed in Learning Commons employee did not exist . The conflict among workers will be happened . Third , consequences , incentives , reward . There were no consequences , incentives or rewards related to performance at the Learning Commons service point . Forth , skill and knowledge . A deficiency in general knowledge of the library services and the role of the librarians at the service point existed among TAC student assistants . Fifth , motivation and expectations . It is unclear what motivates Learning Commons employees and what they expect from themselves . After knowing the causes of the issues , intervention selection , design and development is needed . Closing the performances gap can be done through recommended solutions called interventions. HPT suggests that training is not always the appropriate solution because training will not solve issues related to motivation and expectation . However , an incentives and rewards will address motivation . There are some interventions existed after knowing the causes . There are job description intervention , document and standards intervention , training intervention , performance appraisal intervention . A job description specifically for employment in the Learning Commons would define each position’s duties , responsibilities , working conditions , and job activities , which would help employees understand their own job and the role of the other employees at the Learning Commons services point . Besides that , to remedy problems related to lack of information for job duties and procedures , the recommendation is a documents and standards intervention . The standard operating procedures(SOP) manual would include the job description , expectations , policies , guidelines , and procedures for each position at the service desk . Training intervention is training librarians and TAC students . Training employees would provide expectations for each employee . Performance appraisal intervention show staff that there will be consequences for poor performance and rewards for good performance . On the other hand , feedback should be encouraged in Learning Commons . Positive feedback should be provided and given from all the employees . Negative feedback is also important to correct everyday issues . After implemented all the intervention that suggested, must evaluate their success based on further analysis of performance . In my opinion , HPT is a very good tool to evaluate the individual performance or organizational performance . As we see the problems in Learning Commons , HPT had given a good solution for it in fixing the problem . HPT begins with a comparison of the of the present and the desired levels of individual and organizational performance to identify the performance gap. Once the performance gap and the causes have been determined, the appropriate interventions are designed and developed. These may include measurement and feedback systems, new tools and equipment, compensation and reward systems, selection and placement of employees, and training and development. The interventions are then implemented and the change process managed. After implemented all the intervention , The employees in Learning Commons will clear about their roles , responsibilities . At the same time , The Learning Commons is already providing to be a great resource at UNCW . HPT model must be applied cyclically and systematically over time to evaluate employee performance . However , I do not agree that HPT is always the best tool in solving problem . This is because it might identify wrong data or information during performance analysis . If it is wrong in the beginning of the process , inappropriate intervention might created . This will make the decision maker make the wrong decision . While doing wrong analysis , there might insert a high cost and it’s will be a waste of time if the analysis is wrong . Moreover , HPT has mentioned a few intervention to fix the problems . It’s hard to implement all those intervention at the same time . If cannot implement successfully , the more problem might exists . But if whole process is running smoothly , nonetheless , HPT is a very tool in solving problem . I had compared two models which are HPT model and ADDIE model . The ADDIE model is a systematic instructional design model consisting of five phase which are analysis , design , development ,implementation and evaluation phase . There are a few similarities between HPT model and ADDIE model . They both use process of analysis to look the problem and seek for the solution as well . However , they have a key different between the model . The ADDIE model addresses the â€Å"gaps between desired outcomes or behaviours and the audience’s existing knowledge and skills†. The ADDIE models mainly focus on the individual needs and then design and develop objectives and processes help the individual . Evaluation and implementation do not just happened at the end of the design and development . They are ongoing to inform the designer . So if there any changes, the necessary solution can be made quickly . The HPT model is different because it more focus on the causes of â€Å"performance† gap . The success of the organization is depend on its employees . HPT will look what causes the employees unable to perform the job . HPT’s goal is to increase the bottom line of the company by increasing the individual’s ability to perform the job . In addition , it is important that the HPT is look â€Å" what caused the problem† ,while the ADDIE model looks at â€Å" solving the problem exists † . HPT model design seem to also behaviourist approach because the focus is more changing individual behaviour . The HPT model will look at evaluation of the problem and how it was addressed long after the process . The HPT model has its own advantages . In my view , because HPT model is focused on how the people perform on the job . In my opinion , the workers or the people of the organization is the assets for its organization . So , the performance of the individual affect overall success of the organization . This model takes many variables into the account , that there will affect performance . It humanizes the work place because the individuals are allowed to address their problems. At the same time , it may be necessary to provide training course if the individual unable to perform the work is because of lacking information or unknowledgeable . Beside that , HPT model never ignore the reward or motivation . If they have a good performance , incentive or reward will be given to motivate the employees . Every model has its own disadvantages as well , disadvantage I see is how the technologist ensures lifelong working and the successful using the collected information. Because they wait a while before evaluating. It would seem to me that the worker would want to know immediately if they are doing better so that changes can be made more quickly. Feedback is so important to workers feeling successful and competent. If there is too much focus on negative feedback, it may have a negative impact on the individual. Where as in the ADDIE model, the worker’s deficiencies or the causes problems are not the major focus, and you get feedback at various stages rather than only at the end of the process. If I were a human resource professional in any area , I would use HPT model . As I was also a worker before , I see that would be beneficial for all the subordinates or primary worker . If workers feel supported, they’ll do better than if they’re not supported. It provides a guide to helping individuals be successful in their work. I think someone who feels successful and competent in their work is more likely to suffer less burn out than those individuals who have no one in their corner to mentor or help them solve whatever issue is keeping them from doing their best on the job. I might also use HPT when talking to friends or children about getting jobs and being successful on the job. I can apply it to my own career and be my own trouble shooter as well as look for solutions. This puts a little more power over what I do in my hands because at least I would know that I can change me to help the organization do its job better too. On the other hand , as I mentioned employees are a part of assets of the organization . I think it is the responsibility of the human resource department to choose an appropriate system of performance appraisal . Effective appraisal system motivate the employees all the time rather than joining training . Conclusion In conclusion, HPT model has been described as the systematic and systemic identification and removal of barriers to individual and organizational performance. Nonetheless ,HPT model is an effective tool for uncovering performance issues . The model can be applied to any area in the library where employees must perform and is not limited to public service . In any new service , some performance issues may â€Å" work themselves out† overtime while some may not . In some cases , problems left unidentified or unsolved , it may be quite difficult to fix after an extended period of time . It is same like our daily habit or problems , if a parent identified that a child is beginning to pick up a bad habit , it is certainly easier to change the child’s behaviour when the parent first notices their child’s behaviour . If the parents did not take action to stop their child in the beginning , it is hard to stop their child after maintain a long bad habit . Similarity to any other service , if identify the problems early , then can find out the causes and fix it as fast as possible . The model does require extensive analysis . Without this analysis , a full picture cannot be taken , assumption will be made , and issues or problems cannot be identified . Optimal employee performance is critical in any organization . From the journal , Learning Commons in UNCW is using human performance technology (HPT ) . It is a library . With libraries needing to demonstrate their value and provide assessment data and administration . The HPT model serves as one more useful tool for libraries to accomplish this . I had read a journal , which is about ADDIE model and I had also compared both ADDIE and HPT model . I found that there have many similarities . But when I go deeper for the journal , I found that there is a big differences . ADDIE model focus more on training building program , while in HPT model , training is only one of the tool . HPT model is not only useful in organization , but also useful for every individual . If did not find out the causes properly , a appropriate solution is impossible to created .

Real Talk Is grad school worth it

Real Talk Is grad school worth it It comes with a high price tag and time commitment, but lots of jobs seem to want a degree beyond a bachelor’s or associate’s. So, is grad school worth it? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the simple answer is yes. Those with doctoral degrees, professional degrees, or master’s degrees have higher median usual weekly earnings and lower unemployment rates. While there are counterpoints to this idea (like Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, or Oprah, who made their wild successes without obtaining any degrees in higher education) and data showing that an electrician or plumbing apprenticeship may be a better investment than either a B.A. or a Ph.D., generally speaking the higher degree of learning you have, the higher your weekly income.But this is all in the abstract- and your real-life situation may not appear so simple as a bar chart. What about the tuition costs, the investment of your time and effort, the job opportunities and earning years you give up in the m eantime, and the possibility that it might not work out the way you want?The question most people need to ask first is: can I afford the short-term pain for the potential long-term gain? There are also differences in every industry and every degree program- some, like a medical degree, will get you a monetary return on investment sooner than an MFA in painting. Earnings vary by industry, demographics, and location, and of course by individual, and a graduate degree does not automatically line your pockets with more cash each week. (In the short-term, it will do the exact opposite.) Degrees also gain and lose earning potential over time; going to law school was a much better bet in the year 2000, before natural learning search algorithms eliminated much of the entry-level work, than it is today. You may also consider other factors like the value the graduate degree has beyond earning potential.But no matter what type of degree you seek, it is work and it is a gamble. So here are a fe w factors to consider before you fill out your FAFSA and brush up on your math skills for the GRE.If you are currently employed and the company will pay for it:Take advantage of professional advancement programs within your current job. If your employer helps pay for grad school and you can juggle courses and your day job, then go for it. This helps take care of one of the main drawbacks of graduate school: going broke. Depending on the degree program, universities might even offer stipends and assistantships.Getting funding assistance of any kind is one of the key bonuses that can help you get that degree to take you further in your professional endeavors. And, if you can remain gainfully employed while seeking a degree, your personal risk is considerably diminished. At the very least, you won’t need to find a new job if the degree program does not pan out.If you consider your qualifications for future positions:For some positions, you simply need a graduate degree. Libraria n? Yes. Architect? Yes. Doctor? Yes. If the dream job you always see posted on your favorite job website requires a graduate degree, then it’s time to seriously consider investing in that future to make the dream achievable. The trickiness of the situation comes when you make yourself overqualified for other positions. For example, if you have a graduate degree in marketing, but have no job experience, you may be screened out of the applicant pool for entry-level jobs. In cases like this, it is vital to explore internship opportunities while in school and cultivate real-world work experience too.If the degree has value beyond earning potential:If you simply have a love of learning or a passion you want to follow, is it worth it? This is the case where â€Å"worth† may be defined beyond the monetary value. This means you will enjoy grad school with its challenges, but you may set yourself back monetarily for a few years. If you want a degree in art history, thereâ€℠¢s no guarantee you will ever get a job as a museum conservator. You may still end up with a sales job and a vast knowledge of 16th century painters in your head.Beyond personal enrichment, there are other types of value for a graduate degree- for example, if the program offers good connections and internships. This can help with careers that are harder to break into like television, acting, or journalism.If you consider the money now vs. money in the future:Degrees with more immediate pipelines to job opportunities (like nursing, law school, or an MBA program) tend to charge tuition; artist’s MFA degrees or a PhD in academic subjects that are less market-oriented tend to offer tuition remission, stipends, assistantships or on-campus jobs. (If they don’t, then it’s much less worth it; don’t go into debt for a nonprofessional graduate degree!) If you’re not in a professional degree program, the lean years may extend a bit longer beyond grad school, and you may only gain success years later as you work towards your goal around your day job.If you are considering using the degree to teach at the college level:The job market for professors has stagnated over the last decade, with a severe glut of degree holders and a dearth of jobs teaching full-time in university departments. Increasingly those earning a PhD in programs of study that can last 5-10 years are seeking out â€Å"alt-ac† jobs- meaning nonacademic jobs- or spending years doing low-wage, low-security teaching work before leaving the profession. Do the research on your field and its job prospects before you commit to spending so many of your prime earning years in graduate school for a teaching career that might never materialize, no matter how smart you are or hard you try.

My Writing Experience

My Writing Experience Free Online Research Papers Writing has never been my strongest characteristic, but I do enjoy expressing myself in different ways. My senior year during high school I took a grammar and writing class. In it we had to write multiple types of paper. Such as a biography, persuasion, and a research. I would say that by taking this class it has had a positive effect on me. Even though I did not look forward to this class I knew it would only benefit me. I knew that I really didn’t enjoy writing, and I didn’t have any real confidence in my writing. Which I have developed from past negative experiences from papers that I have done bad on. This class showed me that I did well on all my opinion papers. Such as a persuasion or descriptive papers. I found it easy to express my ideas and thoughts without any right or wrong answer. This grammar and writing class also helped me with my grammar, another weak part of my English skills. Overall I discovered that I wasn’t as poor as I thought, and from all the things that I have learned, it has really has helped me with my confidence in writing and getting my point across. Also I think that I have sometimes had a negative attitude when taking previous English courses. Especially when a writing assignment comes up. Most people including myself never look forward to writing a paper. But it also doesn’t help when you get an English teacher that is very black and white and boring. And like we talked about in class loves to mark up your paper with red ink. Teachers that assign very boring papers also leads to a negative outlook, like a boring research paper on a common topic, such as abortion. All you hear in those boring papers is random facts and statistics about that topic that you have heard a million times. Another negative experience is when teachers grade your writings on what they want to hear. I have had teachers in high school that have assigned essays on a particular question that has an answer that could go either way. More so an opinion question. And I would answer it in my opinion and teachers would not agree with it, and grade it low. Because they would want to see a version of their own opinions rather that someone else’s view on that particular question. Overall I would say my writing experiences have been about fifty-fifty for the positive and negative experiences. I have enjoyed many good times in my writing/english classes and have turned in work that I am very proud of. I believe that all these experiences have shaped me into the writer I am today. Research Papers on My Writing ExperienceDistance Learning Survival GuideStandardized TestingThe Mechanics of Grading Grading SystemsHip-Hop is ArtThe Story of Beatrix PotterBooker T. Washington, W.E.B. Du Bois, Ida B. Wells-BarnettAmerican Central Banking and OilIs the Use of Psychotropic Drugs in the Treatment of19 Century Society: A Deeply Divided EraBionic Assembly System: A New Concept of Self

Phase 2 Individual Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Phase 2 Individual Project - Essay Example ect team in line with their involvement in the different phases of the project management life cycle, as well as with their contributions to the different knowledge management areas of project management. With available staff, personnel are chosen to perform key roles in the project as end-user, business analyst and team leader. The paper concludes with emphasis on resource allocation for the different project phases. Rick Auto Enterprises (RAE), has a legacy billing system in place, which was installed over ten years ago, with upgrades according to the vendors schedule. Today, RAE is embarking on a major upgrade for the new web-based version of the system, which will function in addition to the mainframe legacy system update. The project will involve significant changes to current business processes and jobs. The web-version will allow customers as well as auto brokers to view and pay their bills on-line, and access a billing customer service agent when needed. It is expected that the implementation of the web version will reduce costs, improve customer satisfaction and reduce the number of days of accounts receivable. However, the changes will affect the billing, sales, and customer service departments. The requirement for the Project Manager is to determine the project sponsor, the steering committee structure and the participants for this project, which should be done during the initiation ph ase (Case Resource). Project management is a carefully planned and organized effort to accomplish a specific goals or objectives. It involves developing a project plan with goals and objectives defined, how these will be achieved, resources needed and timetables for completion. Project management also includes implementing the plan with controls to ensure that project goals are achieved (FML, 2008). Project management usually has major phases such as initiation, planning, execution, control, and closing. The requirement for the Project Manager for RAE’s major upgrade

Synthesis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 3

Synthesis - Essay Example Sean needs to engage students in the topics by reducing the verbal instructions and communicating his instructions or lecture through visual aid. Hence, he should inter-mix verbal instructions with captivating visuals to help him gauge their attention. This would give Sean a clear understanding of student’s knowledge regarding clay sculpting and what Sean needs to explain more. Students should start their own clay sculpture, but after fifteen minutes, students would be rotated and they would finish each other’s sculpture. This kinesthetic movement would make his expectations clear, and would also be a fun activity for students to finish their friend’s work. He should also make a rule for students that if they break something, they would have to pay for it. Sara needs to first use the Socratic method of learning, ask students for information and then fill the gaps with her expertise. Sara is dealing with students who are passionate about football, but there are also girls in her class she needs to consider too. Sara needs to observe class behaviour, as well as community behaviour. In order to understand better her class and community, she should use visual aids, like pictures of legendary football players, monuments and places that the community thrives on. This would make her feel close to the class and the community, and would also make her more engaged with the students (Horwitz, 2010). Sara should hand out different tests to students, to further assess their knowledge; the tests for boys could be designed in a way that it includes questions relating to football. Similarly, she should use the girl preferred topics for the introduction of new concepts in her math lesson for girls, which interests them most. Megan would have a clear picture of her student’s language capabilities, once she converse with them for some time. She should spend at least one week assessing their language capabilities by engaging them in