Different stakeholders in the health care system Essay

Week 1: Discussion 1: With so many different stakeholders in the health care system, many with powerful political lobbies, it is understandable that the government has been unable to effectively address the problems of cost, access, and quality. With the passing of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 (PPACA), the government has taken a step towards reshaping the health care system. Answer the following question: How will the PPACA reshape the health care system in terms of access, cost, and quality? Discussion 2: In spite of its impressive accomplishments, the U.S. health care system is fraught with problems and dilemmas. There is a growing concern that health care is a big, complex, unmanageable business. In this week’s reading, six major stakeholders were identified, they are: the public, employers, providers, hospitals and other health care facilities, the government, and managed care organizations and other insurers. After reading this week’s text and other references answer the following questions: In what ways have the stakeholders contributed to make the current health care system in the United States is too complex and unmanageable? In your opinion, which stakeholder has had the most significant impact? Why? Who should take the lead in reforming the U.S. health care system? Why? Week 2 Discussion 1: An oversupply of physicians in many urban regions contrasts with continuing problems of access in rural and inner-city areas. After completing this week’s reading and viewing the video, discuss this topic using the following questions to help guide you: Why does the mal-distribution of physicians  persist in spite of the number of physicians graduated? Explore how these specialty medical practices affect access to healthcare, quality of care received, and costs associated with health care services. Do these same conditions exist in Canada or the United Kingdom? Why or why not? Discussion 2: According to Sultz & Young (2011), â€Å"Communication among providers and between providers and patients [is] problematic as medical technology progresses and time pressures on physicians increase† (p. 179). After completing this week’s reading discuss this topic using the following questions to help guide you: How might the increase in medical technology have a negative effect on communication among providers? Provide at least two examples. Are there any positive effects of increased technology on communication among providers? Why or why not? How does the increase in medical technology impact the provider-patient relationship? Provide at least two examples. Assignment: Disclosure of Physician Information The dispute over exposing the comparative performance of physicians on a wide spectrum of variables has been resolved in favor of the consumers of health care. Despite physician protests, a number of states have passed legislation that gives the public access to physician information, including disciplinary records, malpractice actions, and whether a physician has lost hospital privileges. In a three to four page, (excluding title and reference page), APA formatted, double-spaced paper, respond to the following questions: Are the physician reports cards fair and balanced? Take a position on this issue and explain your view. Provide at least two examples from references that support your position. Do physician report cards provide information consumers need to make medical decisions? Why or why not? Explain your answer. Support your position with two references in addition to the textbook. Note: one of the two references may be a professional website. Week 3: Discussion 1: The chapters assigned this week focused on hospitals and ambulatory (outpatient) healthcare organizations. Each has their own unique administrative and clinical requirements due to shifts in utilization. Choose one of situations presented below and discuss the implications for healthcare organizations, consumers, and the health care delivery system as a whole. Fully state and explain your position while providing at least two references (one may be the text). Situation 1: Overnight hospitalization has significantly declined as services have shifted to ambulatory care (care completed within a 24-hour period). What are some of the root causes for these shifts? What are the implications of this shift for hospitals, consumers, and the health care delivery system as a whole? Situation 2: More than half of all surgical procedures are now performed in ambulatory surgery facilities with the shift of surgery from the inpatient setting to outpatient. Explain the implications for hospitals, physicians and consumers. What are some of the root causes for these shifts? What are the implications of this shift for hospitals, consumers, and the health care delivery system as a whole? Discussion 2: According to Sultz and Young (2011), â€Å"with the multitude of tasks performed everyday by hundreds of employees in a busy hospital. Misunderstandings and information breakdowns in patient care are inevitable† (p.85). After completing this week’s reading discuss this concept as it relates to quality patient outcomes. Answer the following questions: In your opinion, do you agree with Sultz and Young (2011) that errors in the hospital setting are inevitable? Why or why not? Does the size of a hospital affect the quality that patients receive? Why or why not? Is there anything patients and/or their families can do to help ensure that they are receiving the best care possible? Assignment: This week, you will prepare an outline for your final paper. Please refer to Week 5 Assignment to assist you in choosing one of the four basic functional components of the U.S. healthcare delivery system (financing, insurance,  delivery, or quality). In your outline, identify future trends in U.S. healthcare related to your chosen functional component. Base your outline on the issues and questions listed in week 5 related to the one functional component you are choosing to focus on. The outline must reference at least five sources other than the course textbook. Only the title page and reference page need to be in APA format, as an outline does not have an APA form. While there is no standard for outline formats, you may choose to refer to the hyperlink for guidance: Outline . Week 4: Discussion 1: There are many factors influencing the increasing demand for long-term care services in the United States. Select two from the following list and discuss ways in which your two selected factors are affecting the market for long-term care services. Changes in the demographics of the U.S. population Social and economic changes in families Increasingly sophisticated medical technology Greater consumer sophistication and demands Increasing scrutiny of federal and state government financial involvement in support of long-term health care Discussion 2: According to Sultz and Young (2011), â€Å"there is no single ‘mental health system’ [in the United States] but a variety of systems that provide services. Those systems vary widely in what services are provided for whom, by whom, and in what setting† (p.329). Answer the following questions: Why don’t people with mental illnesses receive the same level of care as other illnesses? What barriers prevent people with mental illnesses from receiving the care they need? Are the barriers different in the U.S. as compared to other countries? Should the federal government take a more active role in the coordination of care and services to patients with mental illness? Why or why not? Week 5: Discussion 1: Critique the ways in which each of the following factors affects healthcare expenditures in the United States. 1. How do these factors impact the patients, individual providers, healthcare organizations, and insurers? Advances in medical care technology and diagnostic technology Changes in U.S. demographics Emphasis on specialty medicine Financing of healthcare Healthcare as a labor-intensive industry Consumer expectations How does healthcare spending/financing in the United States compare to other countries? Fully state and explain your position while providing at least two references. Discussion 2: Healthcare reform is underway in the United States. Given the history of previous attempts to reform the U.S. healthcare system and the current state of the U.S. economy, answer the following questions: Will the healthcare reforms now in progress resolve or worsen the key issues of access, costs, and quality? Can we achieve a system in which there is fiscal and clinical accountability for defined populations? Fully state and explain your position while providing at least two references. Assignment: The final paper should demonstrate an application of your knowledge of the U.S. health care system by synthesizing the information from the readings and class work into work and life experience. Your paper may include information and examples from previous experience as well as implications for future application. For your final paper, you will use the outline you created in week 3 to create an 8-10 page paper (excluding the title and reference pages). You will choose one topic to focus on for your entire paper: Delivery, Quality, Financing, or Insurance and: 1. Analyze future trends in U.S. healthcare related to that one topic. 2. Address the questions below related to that one topic: Delivery: What is society’s obligation to ensure access to a basic level of health care  for all its citizens and how can it be accomplished? Should government take a more aggressive role in reshaping the health care system or should the economy be allowed to continue exerting market-driven reforms? What lessons can be learned from healthcare delivery systems that exist in other industrialized nations? Hospital emergency departments continue to be used as a source of primary medical care by large numbers of the community’s medically underserved population. What are the implications of this practice for the patients, and on health care costs and quality of care? Identify the major factors that have resulted in the shift in utilization from inpatient hospitalization to ambulatory care services. What are the implications of this shift for hospitals, consumers, and the health care delivery system as a whole? Quality: How does the quality of healthcare in the United States compare to the quality of care in other industrialized nations? How can an acceptable quality of health care be assured for all? Will providing data in areas such as patient outcomes, compliance with national standards for preventive and chronic care, and comparative costs to the public be an acceptable measure of healthcare delivery outcomes? Though physicians believed that only physicians could and should judge the quality of hospital medical care, they found participation in such hospital peer review activities a most disagreeable obligation. What were the problems with the process? Managed care organization credentialing by the National Committee on Quality Assurance rapidly evolved as a standard of quality in the industry. Discuss the pros and cons on the value of credentialing by an independent organization to a managed care organization and to consumers. How does medical technology affect the communication between healthc are providers and patients? What affect does this have on the quality of care? Financing: How can the costs of health care be kept affordable for both individuals and society? Legislative attempts to address the problems of the health care system are always met by shifting alliances among well financed and, often, self-serving lobbying groups. How, in the American system of politics, can health care get more objective support on behalf of consumers? Since significant reductions are likely in the federally supported health care  programs that today account for about 40 percent of US personal health care expenditures, what will happen to those dependent on those programs for health care? How will the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 (PPACA) affect the costs associated with healthcare? Who will benefit the most in terms of the cost of healthcare? Who, if anyone, will experience an increase in the cost of healthcare? The single most important impetus for managed care was rising costs. Should the US have a two-tiered medical care system in which people who can afford it buy all the specialty care they want and others live within the managed care restrictions? Are there any lessons to be learned from the way in which healthcare is financed in other industrialized nations? Insurance: The insurance industry plays a huge role in the American health care system and absorbs a significant portion of the health care dollar. A single payer system, whether it be a private company or the US government, would eliminate the complex insurance paperwork and free substantial funds that could be used to provide care. Why is there is there so much resistance to a concept used in every other advanced country? Discuss the evolution of private health insurance and its effects on costs and access to services. The availability of hospital insurance removed an important cost constraint from hospital services and charges. What were the positive and negative consequences of that development? Steeply rising costs of medical liability insurance are a growing concern for practicing physicians, medical schools, and teaching hospitals. As a result, physicians are leaving high premium states, choosing to retire early, or reducing high-risk aspects of their practice to lower their insurance co sts. Discuss the evolution of private health insurance and its effects on costs and access to services. Writing the Final Paper Must be eight- to ten- double-spaced pages in length and formatted according to APA style as outlined in the approved APA style guide. Must include a cover page that includes: Title of paper Student’s name Course name and number Instructor’s name Date submitted Must include an introductory paragraph with a succinct thesis statement. Must address the topic of the paper with critical thought. Must conclude with a restatement of the thesis and a conclusion paragraph. Must use at least five scholarly resources, including a minimum of three from ProQuest. Must use APA style as outlined in the approved APA style guide to document all sources. Must include, on the final page, a Reference Page that is completed according to APA style as outlined in the approved APA style guide.

What, in your opinion, is the explanation for the events portrayed in Joan Lindsay’s “factional” novel Picnic at the hanging rock?

How does the author bring out, in her writing, a sense of horror and mystery? It will probably never be fully explained what exactly happened at Picnic at hanging rock; but what we do know is that Marion Quade, Miranda and Miss McCraw were never found – not even until this very day. Nevertheless, I do believe that there are some clues that could decipher this inexplicable conundrum. Some of these I shall unravel in this essay. When I finished reading Picnic at hanging rock , I was left in a perplexing trance. Many possibilities occur to me, but the first clue I think is the sighting by Edith of the mathematics teacher – Miss McCraw, wearing no skirt. Possibly, the girls and the maths teacher met up; and perhaps took a short cut in fear they would be late back. Moreover; it has been mentioned several times in the book and film how easy it can be to get lost on the rock, and, as said by Mrs Appleyard – â€Å"the vicinity is renowned for its venomous snakes and poisonous ants†. On the contrary – this still doesn't explain why Miss McCraw was seen by Edith wearing no skirt, and why Irma was found one week later – wearing no corset. Maybe Miss McCraw followed the girls – she did seem very certain of the directions to the rock. For instance, Miss McCraw said – â€Å"You have only to change your route this afternoon and return by the third side. In this case, since we entered the road at Woodend at right angles the return journey shall be along the hypotenuse†. However, if she had followed the girls, why didn't Albert Crundall or Michael Fitzhubert see her? On the other hand, is it possible that Edith Horton could have concocted her sighting of Miss McCraw, just to gain attention ? After all, Edith has been described as greedy and unpleasant from the start; â€Å"I ate so much pie at lunch I can hardly keep awake†. Although this doesn't explain the mysterious circumstances, and the way Irma was found one week later. So what can? There are many implications in the book and the film of paranormal and supernatural goings on – beyond our control. In the book and film, we get the impression of eeriness just as the gates open to the hanging rock. For example, â€Å"†¦a flock of parrots flew out screeching from an overhanging tree†. This metaphorically symbolises something deadly, implying that the parrots are trying to get away from something. In addition, I notice the way in which the author implicates that the rock will lead to something pernicious. For instance; â€Å"Out of the known dependable present and into the unknown future†. This quote obviously represents the fact that what will happen on the rock will change the girls' futures. Correspondingly; fate is mentioned again when it is hinted that what is going to happen on the rock is their destiny. It is as if people are conscious that something is going to happen on the rock. I get this impression from when Irma says – â€Å"Miranda used to say everything begins and ends at exactly the right time and place†. The sinister force is practically tangible at the rock, and this is clearly shown by the author. This is felt strongly by Edith as she walks with the other girls, â€Å"It is nasty here†¦I never thought it would be so nasty or I wouldn't have come†¦Ã¢â‚¬ . Furthermore; I notice Miranda is mysteriously described as a â€Å"Botticelli angel†, â€Å"swan† and â€Å"gliding† numerous times. Is it likely that Miranda is more than she appears? Is it possible some magical force took over the rock? It seems to be more than a coincidence that everyone's watch had been enigmatically forgotten or had stopped – perhaps time had stopped altogether. It's as if that something malicious was luring the girls to the rock. This could also explain why Irma was found one week later – as she could have been put under a spell. Moreover, in the film we are shown Miranda, Irma and Marion gliding up the rock – however, later on in the film we see someone staggering up the rock, which almost defies the law of physics. On the other hand, what if it wasn't necessarily something magical luring them to the rock – after all the rock is a sacred place and aboriginals could have been infuriated by the way in which the girls walked over it. After all, there are such things hinted – â€Å"Like the beating of far off drums†. Perhaps these drums were those of Aboriginals. We shall never know. Although, this could explain why Irma's nails were so badly torn and broken – maybe this was caused in confrontation with the attacker – as well as being hit on the head. But what happened to the shoes, stockings and corset? Maybe the attacker found them and took them away, to keep as a souvenir of his catch. Moreover – we are still left in confusion about the death of Sara Waybourne. However; I am deeply suspicious about Mrs Appleyard. Her treatment of Sara Waybourne, whom she dislikes intensely, is sadistic in its cruelty. We get this impression from the start, by the way she forbids Sara to go to the picnic, for instance – † I am afraid I will have to send you to bed instead of sitting up until the others return for supper after the picnic†. This evilness fails to be identified by the people around Mrs Appleyard, until near the end. Mademoiselle de Poitiers, was surprised upon the fact that Mrs Appleyard's expression was like â€Å"an evil wind† when the subject of Sara's disappearance was brought up. In addition, Mrs Appleyard was ‘supposed' to have helped pack the most important of Sara's belongings into a basket, but after Sara had ‘allegedly' left, a little basket was seen in the study – â€Å"It flew open and the small covered basket fell out on to the floor†. This obviously indicates that Mrs Appleyard is hiding something about Sara . Furthermore – why did Mrs Appleyard ‘apparently' witness Sara Leaving? When Sara Waybourne was found dead, why did Mrs Appleyard go into Sara's bedroom? To remove evidence? Or is it just a coincidence that Mrs Appleyard committed suicide soon after this occurrence? No. The evidence on this case all points towards Mrs Appleyard murdering Sara – however much you look into it. In order to get the reader to understand the full meaning of Picnic at hanging rock the author needs to create an atmosphere. The author brings out the terror and mystery in many ways – one excellent example of this is Similes and metaphors. After she returns from the rock, Joan Lindsay creates a high level of hysteria in the gymnasium – the atmosphere is almost unbearable. For example: â€Å"Edith's great head was nodding like a mandarins†, â€Å"The ceiling opening up like a flower† and â€Å"chamber of horrors†. The effect of this is the tension is being built up to seize the reader's attention to what is happening. Moreover, another immensely exhilarating use of language is the animal imagery used in this scene. For instance: â€Å"Hyena call of hysteria†, â€Å"claw like hands†, â€Å"fourteen pairs of eyes like hares in cages†, â€Å"sniffing like a terrier†, â€Å"tear her to pieces†, † a cavernous mouth agape†, â€Å"a tuft of scarlet feathers trembled†,† warm sour breath† and â€Å"drooling tongue†. The effect of using animal imagery is so the reader can metaphorically relate to something in comparison to what is actually happening. This helps create terror throughout the scene and make us feel as if the book has come to life. In addition; I also must include the use of colours throughout this scene. For example: â€Å"black sage bloomers†, â€Å"black cotton stockings†, â€Å"scarlet cloak† and â€Å"grey disciplines†. As many of us know, black and grey often symbolises death and ominous circumstances, and these colours have not been used for no reason. However, ‘scarlet' is perhaps used to symbolise blood and it also may be used to represent sexual passion and loss of innocence. Whatever happened on the rock has changed Irma forever. Although – we must be aware of the fact that the author could be twisting things around to grab the reader's attention. When I started writing this essay I was convinced that the missing girls had been lost and looking for a short cut back , however; having thought through my theory, I now see this is not possible, as if it was true how come Irma appeared one week later? My verdict on this is that it shall never be solved. Too much time has gone by, and the protagonists are dead. So, like many other mysteries; this puzzle shall remain unanswered.

Michael Gow’s “Away” Essay

Drama is a genre that is deliberately written for performance, and therefore, the reader’s understanding of the characters and issues is always improved by its staging. â€Å"Staging† in Drama means the process or manner of putting a play on stage. This refers to the positioning of the characters and props, the way the actors move, the way they use their voice and how the character looks. Gore Vidal once said, â€Å"A talent for Drama is not a talent for writing, but an ability to articulate human relationships.† By this, Vidal meant that to convey a play properly, association between the characters has to be real, dynamic action that captures the attention of an audience. Away is a charming play that deals with family, relationship, life, growing up and death. It depicts the final months leading up to the disintegration of the condition of Tom, a boy dying from Leukaemia. In the final stages of his life, he is desperate to achieve all that a normal person would in his short lifetime. Emily McPherson of the Age newspaper says, â€Å"This moving play prompts us to consider what is ultimately most important in our lives,† and also considers how relevant it is to Australians, even today, noting that â€Å"Every Australian can relate to this play and learn about the deeper meaning to life†. One factor of staging is Stage Directions. These are the way the playwright communicates with the director in regards to movements and actions of characters, positioning of props, and types of sets. These aspects affect the way the audience views a scene, as they can reveal issues, power relations, social positioning, and relationships between characters. In the last Act of Away, an entire scene is performed only through Stage Directions, yet it is a major scene in the conclusion of Away. This scene depicts the returning of Coral to her husband, Roy, and the subsequent resolution of their differences. Jim and Gwen are reconciled as well. In the case of Roy and Coral, the audience sees their reconciliation through the symbolic offering of the shells to Roy from Coral. With just stage directions, we can tell that this is Coral offering herself, her old self, to Roy. She is asking for forgiveness and we know through Roy’s kissing of  the shells and Coral herself that he has accepted her apology. The directions on the positioning of the characters on stage have to be effective to avoid audience confusion, as there is often split scenes. The way the set is used (â€Å"use of space†) is a useful medium to show conditions of the scene. These can include time of day, where the scene is set, the time period of which the scene was set, and the motives of the characters. Props are often included to add reality to the scene and often offer symbolism relating to the character that uses them. On Christmas Day at the campsite that Gwen’s family is staying at, Gwen, rushes onto the scene with a 12-inch fake Christmas tree and announces â€Å"If you want to have a Christmas you’d better get started now so we can get it over with. Hurry up. I don’t spending half the day sitting around waiting for people to open their presents.† This Christmas tree, being fake, represents Gwen’s resentment of Christmas- she obviously thinks it is a real chore. This does not make Meg and Jim’s Christmas real- their they are, on a day that is supposed to promote goodwill, the importance of the family and other relevant values, and their mother and wife is acting like she’d rather be any other place than with them- this day is an inconvenience. Characterisation can be defined as the representation of a character on the stage, especially by imitating actions, gestures, or speeches. Every element that combines to make a character is included in characterisation. Costumes are a helpful channel of symbolism and we can learn different things about the characters, both in connotative and deconnotative ways. To exemplify this, look at Vic’s new sunhat, which she comments on in Act Three, Scene Five- â€Å"I love my new hat.† This sunhat represents her role as the dominant partner in the family through Harry’s line â€Å"We could have sheltered under your hat.† The charisma of the sunhat reveals not only her personal charisma, but as this hat is only worn during the holiday, shows what a great time they are having on vacation. Tom also wears a Hawaiian shirt during the beach holiday scene, reflecting his laidback character. This is just one of many hints that are given to the reader to show Tom’s parallels with Puck, even though this one is very subtle. Tom acts and represents the catalyst, through his resolve and vitality; despite the disease he gives  each family hope. He represents the reasons for the reconciliation of each family, just like Puck in A Midsummer Nights’ Dream. Body language can demonstrate relationships between characters and character motive. Gestures show reactions, emotions the character is dealing with and the implications of these emotions. Expressions work similarly to gestures. Both help to put what the character is saying into context. We can see when Tom lies down on the beach during his walk with Meg that he is offering himself to her sexually. Meg rejects this offer. When this scene in viewed in performance, we can tell that Meg is rejecting Tom because she begins backing Away from him and cautiously glancing back at the path they came, wanting to go back to the safety of her parents, where Tom can’t impose anything like this on her. The audience has gone from seeing the two characters walking closely, side by side, to seeing Meg back away, with a different, more guarded attitude, and ultimately leaving him and hurrying back to the campsite. Lighting is helpful in setting a mood for the scene- for example, dark lighting may conjure up a theme of doom and gloom, where as a single spotlight will centre the audience’s attention on that one character. Special Effects are sometimes used in points of extreme climax. An example of a symbolic use of lighting would be in Act Five, Scene 2. It is the last scene of the play and shows the start of the new school year- probably Tom’s last year alive. The lighting becomes bright, summery, morning. This audience can sense that this echoes the dawn of the last stages of Tom’s life. Special Effects, though not noted in the stage directions, could be used during the storm scene, in which Gwen’s family are caught in a fierce storm that leaves the family in even more disarray. Jim describes their feelings like this â€Å"There doesn’t seem to be much use to carry on with your holiday when your van’s a wreck, your boat’s smashed on the rocks and all your clothes are soaked.† The storm embodies the family’s instability and their strained relationships. The reason Tom’s family was bypassed by that storm is because Tom’s family is a happy family who are content with life and the least uncooperative. Special effects highlight climactic points like the storm. Music reflects the dialogue of a scene and can highlight the important issues in the scene. It is also and effective way to set a certain mood or feeling. In Away, Mendelssohn is often referred to in the stage directions. For example, his calming Dreams is played during Act Three, Scene Five, where Tom’s family having a wonderful, relaxing time during there beach holiday. In this case, the music is reflecting the emotions and essence that embodies the scene. Mendelssohn’s music is often referred to in Gow’s stage directions, meaning it is probably the type of music he thinks reflects the play as a whole. Staging will always enhance the audience’s understanding of what is happening on a stage. The reader/audience member’s perspective of the play is always changed through Stage Directions, Characterisation, Music, Lighting, Special Effects and use of space. Earlier, Gore Vidal’s quote, â€Å"A talent for Drama is not a talent for writing, but an ability to articulate human relationships†, was mentioned. When analysing Vidal’s quote, it can be interpreted that Vidal meant that a playwright did not just have to possess the talent of writing, but that to show an accurate portrayal of the relationships that people have to one another, and the ways in which they handle these relationships. It can be deduced that Vidal was referring to the use of not only literature but also staging techniques that would humanise the characters.

Physiological and Social Needs Associated with the Aging Process Term Paper

Physiological and Social Needs Associated with the Aging Process - Term Paper Example This paper will focus on physiological and social needs associated with the aging process pertaining to people who are 65 years old and older. It will discuss areas such as selective optimization, cognition and aging, socio-emotional selectivity, as well as personality and aging, and recommend how these areas could be improved to make the life of the elderly person better. Physiological and Social Needs of the Aging Process Introduction The aging process is, in essence, transforming from middle age to old age. It is a time when humans shift away from their former periods of usefulness to dependability (Sharma & Rana, 2012). The aging process causes a broad variety of problems. When one is old, psychological and physical function declines (Nigam et al, 2012). It forces some decline in psychological and physical functions. The problems and needs of elderly people differ considerably in relation to their age, health, socioeconomic status and living status, as well as other such backgrou nd traits. As individuals move away for the early days of their lives, they normally reflect on them. A majority of them usually are regretful and seem to live in the present, choosing to ignore the future totally (Salthouse, 2009). From 60 to 65 years is when adults are normally regarded to be in the transition age from middle to old (Salthouse, 2009). ... As someone ages, they might become more discerning with the individuals they opt to spend their final years with (Spicker, 2013). Psychological closeness might become more significant with other individuals. The notion to which people can selectively pick whom they wish to dedicate their time for becomes more vital as one grows. The premise of cognition is the age-related drop in fluid cognitive performance (Salthouse, 2009). This is, in other words, the effectiveness or efficiency of carrying out tasks of thinking, learning, memory, as well as spatial skills. Nevertheless, crystallized skills are much more stable across the natural life and might even enhance with age, which signifies the cultural and social influences on the world knowledge. Cognitive transformations with the aging process for individuals of the age of 65 are well documented and influence a wide variety of tasks. There are, in realty, three vital cognitive procedures that are affected as one ages; the working memor y, perceptual and sensory abilities, and the rate in which information can be processed (Brossoie, 2012). As one ages, they face decrements in auditory and visual acuity. Some of the age-associated visual problems can be rectified by glasses, and, even though, hearing aids can assist in detecting low-frequency sounds, they normally amplify background noise (Nigam et al, 2012). Such changes raise the potential of processing overload in a situation, which might have once presented minute challenges. Even general activities such as walking become less habitual (Spicker, 2013). The aging process of individuals over the age of 65 brings with it less feelings of shyness, depression or

Self Organizing Maps (SOM) Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Self Organizing Maps (SOM) - Research Paper Example The performance of ANNs is better than that of traditional methods of problem solving. This enhances a comprehensive understanding of the human cognitive abilities. From the available learning algorithms and neural network architectures, the SOM forms the most popular SOM. They use data visualization techniques by Teuvo Kohonen to reduce data dimension using self-organizing neural networks. The data visualization problems attempt to handle problems that are beyond human visualization for high dimensional data. SOMs act as a non-parametric network containing combination of data spatialization and abstraction, hence used in visual clustering. SOM is among the most popular methods of neural networks for use in cluster analysis. This occurs due to topology preserving and self organizing nature for SOM. The SOMs act as abstract model for topographic mapping. Modeling and analysis of mapping enhance understanding of perception, encoding, recognition and processes received and beneficial to the machine-based recognition of the patterns SOM possess prominent visualization properties. Developed from the associative memory model, SOM uses unsupervised learning algorithm characterized by simple computational form and structure enhanced by the retina-cortex mapping. The self-organization nature act as a fundamental process of pattern recognition, and allows learning the intra- and inter-pattern relationships for the stimuli without potential bias. SOM may provide the topologically preserved mapping to all the output spaces from input. Though the computational form proves to be simple, most aspects related to the algorithm must be investigated (Zhang et al 2010, p. 6359). 2.0 Basic principles of SOM The Kohonen self-organizing map encompasses a neural network, and various characteristics similar to the working of the human brain. Basically, SOM avails some classificatory resources that are organized based on patterns available for classification. The single layer of the neu ral network consists of neurons within n-dimensional grid. The grids allow the definition for the neighborhoods in the output space rather than the input space. The input and output spaces constitute the main SOM. This can also be performed through the use of tools that map vectors within the input space to output the space that preserves topological relations in the output space (Yang et al 2012, p.1371). SOM use unsupervised competitive learning and attempts to conform to the available input data. The SOM nodes act as inputs and contain some principle SOM features. Topological relationship between inputs is preserved after mapping into the SOM network. This pragmatically represents the complex data. SOMs use vector quantization in data compression processes. The SOMs offer an appropriate means of representing the multi-dimensional data in the lower dimensional space using one or two dimensions. This enhances visualization and understanding of data in low dimensions. Therefore, SOM s facilitates manipulation of complex data, especially in visualization of large quantities of data in an

Evidence of the GM Food Unsafely Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Evidence of the GM Food Unsafely - Essay Example These are the same animals that humans consume, despite the fact that they are reared using GM crops. From a food chain perspective, it should be noted that every single GM food in the food chain will eventually reach the consumer. Advocates for GM food argue that they will enhance global food security, but this should be taken with caution since a food regulating and testing body should be established first before approving GM foods.Food allergies are a primary concern when it comes to GM food since 6% of children and 2% of children suffer from severe food allergies. GM foods can instigate a more severe allergy since they are reared to resist some conditions (Dona 164-175). Environmental risk is another factor that makes GM foods unacceptable for human consumption. These foods mean that foreign genes will be introduced into the wild population. It will, therefore, require those handling such foods to be adequately trained to avoid contaminating natural foods. Other environmental fac tors include reduction of plant’s spectrum, though GM foods have not been in the ecosystem for long. It can, therefore, be stated with utmost conviction that lack of evidence GM foods safety is not proof that they are safe.

Fianacial moduling Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Fianacial moduling - Essay Example Both the indices generally followed the Other January effect. Introduction New York Stock Exchange (the US Stock) was officiated on March 18, 1817. London stock exchange (the UK Stock) was founded in 1801. The two stocks combined have the highest Market cap (17.0 trillion) and largest volume (3.1 trillion) in the world [1]. Any movement in these markets pushes stock indices all over the world. Drawing parallels from the common and integrated political and economic interests the host countries of these stock indices, it can be hypnotized that these market are correlated. This paper tries to identify, if any, correlation present between the two indices. As mentioned before the NYSE and the LSE sit on huge pile of money and are influential. Hence it is important to figure out their predictability. This paper assesses the predictability of these stock indices. The paper has been segregated into three segments: First section characterizes time series properties of the stocks namely its ra te of return and its volatility. Second section identifies the January effect. Section three provides an estimation of predictability using long-horizon regressions. For the purpose, monthly data of the stock indices starting from January, 1973 till December, 2004 is analyzed. 1. Time Series Analysis The rate of return is defined as the money earned on an investment (in stocks). Volatility is the measure of fluctuation in the asset (stock) prices. Mean and variance of rate of return and volatility is used to characterize a stock [2]. Curve of distribution of data is measured by Skewness and Kurtosis of the graph. A normal distribution curve is bell shaped symmetric around the mean. A positively skewed distribution is skewed to right. Skewness is measured as 3rd movement of mean. A Kurtosis is a measure of flatness of the top of the graph. Larger value of degree of kurtosis would mean sharper peak [11]. The rate of return of the indices was analyzed against time. The volatility of th e market was also measured. The rate of return was measured as the difference of natural log of the monthly index value. Volatility was measured as the standard deviation of rate of return of the market in a year. Each Index was characterized by its mean of rate of return and its variance of rate of return and volatility. [3] Rate of return Volatility Mean (ln values) Variance Skewness Kurtosis Mean (ln values) Variance Skewness Kurtosis UK 0.010753 0.0034 -0.18 7.31 0.053 0.000682 0.94 1.65 US 0.008991 0.0022 -0.95 6.35 0.043 0.000313 0.72 0.90 The result showed that rate of return on was higher in UK index than in US index by around 20%. Also, the UK market was around 23% more volatile than the US market. Variance of rate of return and volatility showed that UK market was more spread than US stocks. High degree of kurtosis for rate of return of the UK and the US stocks suggested sharp peak of the distribution graph. From degree of kurtosis it could be inferred that volatility was not restricted to certain range of stock return values but was spread over a long value range of returns. It is to be noted that in 31 years starting from Jan 1973, US market grew from 98.66 to 3087.82 (31X) in Dec 2004, while the UK markets grew from 319.53 to 19639.99 (61X) in the same period. Distribution of rate of return data was left tailed for both US and UK stocks while distribution of volatility data was right tailed for both the stocks.

I want to buy health insurance by myself Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

I want to buy health insurance by myself - Essay Example Thus, this factor underlines the case importance of medical cover, which comes in a variety of programs for an individual to make a choice. As students, we also need to plan for any misfortune, since we cannot tell of future occurrences. However, what happens when you cannot rely on a program meant to help you in case of a misfortune? Does such a program guarantee you a safe future? While acknowledging the Oklahoma Christian University Administration’s noble intentions in their medical cover program, this expose posit that the cover does not meet its intended purpose and hence the administration should allow students to arrange for their own cover. The initial purpose of any health insurance, or a medical cover, is to ensure that there was proper care of an individual’s body and health. In this regard, a medical cover should be a permanent arrangement that we can all rely on and avail at the appropriate time in case of a serious health disorder. In this regard, an individual’s health is at risk once the medical cover is not dependable. Case in point, our University’s medical cover is not one of the reliable. For instance, a colleague became sick, while in school, and we had to dig deep into our pockets and arrange for an ambulance, which took him to the hospital. This is despite the fact the colleague had paid for medical cover in the University. Thus, the failure of the University to meet such basic costs underlines the undependable nature of the medical cover. At this instance, we pause and ask the question of what would have been the consequence of us not raising money for the ambulance. This can only m ean that the investable would have happened. While medical cover should keep you insured against serious illnesses, our University cover does not cover even the most of basic illnesses like vision and teeth. We all know that

Seminar Paper for One of Us Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Seminar Paper for One of Us - Essay Example Thus, anatomy as a whole can dictate who can do something and who cannot. Dreger notes that sometimes anatomy helps in maintaining order by protecting the vulnerable and restricting privilege. Almost on a daily basis, people change their bodies ever so slightly in order to fit the identity that they wish to present socially. Dreger provides myriad instances that reveal just how much anatomy matters in somewhat unexpected ways (Dreger 2). She points out that even in the Holy Bible, priests were required to have perfect bodies similarly women were not allowed to join priesthood. This can also be illustrated in the case of the conjoined twins who visit a bar only for the bartender to demand for identification from one of the twins who seemed physically younger than her twin. However, Dreger reveals that â€Å"hearing the bartender’s request, the other twin turns around so that she’s the one facing the bartender. Because the second twin appears older, the bartender reconsiders and decides to serve the drink without seeing the proof of time† (Dreger 1). Additionally, anatomy has also interfered with other legal formalities like in the case of the dwarfs whereby their dwarfism prevented the bartender from asking for their identification to verify in the quest of trying to avoid embarrassi ng or devaluing them. Among the examples that Dreger implies when talking about the problems that will be along anatomy identity lines in the 21st century include the issue of racism that has been vibrant in the past years and is expected to continue. Dreger (9) expresses that based on anatomy, one is either black in which the â€Å"whites are seen as inherently superior to all other races†. Subsequently, Dreger also seems to address the issue of scientific innovations and research activities that are on the raise in this 21st century. These innovations such as Botox, a medically antiwrinkle treatment, imply that the world still continues to value anatomy

Internet Cafe Administration and Monitoring System Essay Example for Free

Internet Cafe Administration and Monitoring System Essay Internet cafes are very abundant nowadays. Managing networked computers, payment, time in and time out of the client PCs are very important especially to the cafe owner or employee. In a computer cafe, the recording of time is under the responsibility of the cafe owner or employee who must work consistently, timely, efficiently and patiently to make his business work. Since system computerization is becoming a trend, the cafe owner needs a system to serve its customers better and efficiently. How will an Administration and Monitoring System for Ledion Internet and Networking Cafe help the business manage the client pc start and end times efficiently and accurately? Ledion Internet Networking Cafe have their existing computerized system but is not reliable enough because there are times when the server automatically locks the client pc even when the time was not finished which the owner/employee was obliged to write the time starts and ends of the client pcs in a hard copy of MS Excel sheet. Since the Ledion Internet Networking Cafe have its 3 branches. The main branch is located in 10th Avenue, Caloocan City near Caloocan City Hall; the other 2 branches are situated near Our Lady of Fatima University and University of Santo Tomas. The owner was not well-informed of what is happening in his other cafes unless he calls the employees in charge in other branches. It is very beneficial for the owner to solve the common problems they encounter on their everyday operation in the cafe.

Architectural Designing Firm Business Plan Marketing Essay

Architectural Designing Firm Business Plan Marketing Essay Contemporary Island Designers Associates (C.I.D.) will be an Architectural Designing as well as Cost Estimating, Building Construction, Project Management and Consultations business specializing in residential and small commercial structures in the Jamaican domestic and commercial market, temporarily based out of my home in the Kingston 10 Area of Jamaica. The business will provide consultation and Draughting services using technologically superior processes, providing greater value for clients and enhanced  design and construction. The target clients are segmented into three categories; potential and existing home owners and developers initially. Contemporary Island Designers competitive edge will be the knowledge of digital-based design resources, creativity and results orientated. Superior customer service will also be  a point of firm differentiation. First year profits are expected to reach $xxxxx and increase to $xxxxx by the third year of operation. We will be profitable within three years of starting. The most significant challenges ahead include: (a). securing a suitable location (b) establishing the initial client base and (c)  positioning the business to be able to have a presence in a larger market. This business plan outlines the objective, focus, and implementation of this start-up firm. 1.1 Mission Contemporary Island Designers Associates will offer a new type of digital interactive media for both the client and the builder. This media will clearly show the client and the builder exactly what the design will look like in a three dimensional (Animated) perspective and the method(s) of construction. With this new form of media, the client does not have to know anything about Architectural designing graphics or terminology (floor plans, sections, elevations construction documents) to have a clear understanding of what the end result will look like. This is possible through the use of computer-rendered images and interactive video. This media will be taken one step further by using it in the construction documents as well. The builder(s) may be provided with an interactive video rendering of the entire building containing both visual photographic quality images and construction specs. Specific details will be worked out in three dimensions in such a way that anyone who knows how to use a computer will be able to access and understand this new means of Architectural presentation. 1.2 Keys to Success Provide a service that is technologically superior to the competitions. Utilizing the skills and knowledge gained in a competent and efficient manner through a diverse staff of Architectural Technologist/Draughtsman to provide a wide variety of product styles. A large array of connections and associations with reputable professionals and business executives. Objectives To establish and keep satisfied a vast client base. To provide quality workmanship to satisfy costumer(s) needs and to sustain the reputation of designing and construction in the Jamaican industry. Sales of at least $540,000 in  Year 3  and $725,000 by Year 4. Market expansion of 20% per year via the  Internet and other mediums. Creating new niche in market by  Year 4  of three dimensional construction documents and interactive digital presentation to clients. Company Summary Contemporary Island Designers Associates will provide a service of Architectural designs via digital media to the limits of technology. This approach will  offer optimal efficiency to the firm and superior value, design processes, and construction methods to the client. 2.1Businnes Ownership Contemporary Island Designers will be created as a Kingston operation based initially in the Molynes Road area. It will be  owned by its principal investor and operator, Mr. Miguel Wood. 2.2 Start-up Summary Contemporary Island Designers start-up costs total $xxxxx. The most significant purchases needed are a plotter, office printer, and desktop and laptop computer. Five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) will be needed in cash to sustain the business for the first  year to cover rent and wages until a profit is made. 2.3 Company Locations and Facilities The  interim office of Contemporary Island Designers Associates will be located at my home at Tamarind Avenue, Kingston until dedicated office space is secured. Services Contemporary Island Designers Associates will provide many levels of service such as Architectural Designing and Planning, Cost Estimating, Building Construction, Project Management and Consultations to cater to large and small  corporations and entities, along with making it affordable for middle and upper socioeconomic classes. 3.1 Service Description In order for Contemporary Island Designers Associates to provide this new innovative service of digital media, the company will use high speed computers running programs such as AutoCAD, AutoCAD Architecture Rivet Architecture and 3D Max. To keep up with changes in technology, Contemporary Island Designers will investigate all up and coming software related to digital 3-D design to stay at the forefront of the market.   Again, this is a key strategic component to differentiate the firm and to optimize productivity and efficiency. Market Analysis Summary Contemporary Island Designers Associates will provide its service to home owners who are looking to start new construction, remodel, as well as  developers and contractors and other private parties in the domestic markets. Although we are going to cater to a relatively broad scope of customers, the business will decide what the target market is based on sales and trends experienced in the initial months of operation. 4.1 Market Segmentation Potential clients for Contemporary Island Designers Associates market are broken down into four categories: home owners, developers and contractors. Home owners and potential home owners are the largest group based on shear population and this will be emphasized in  all of the business marketing and promotional efforts. Targeting the remaining  two groups will be dependent upon establishing meaningful relationships, and responding and qualifying for request for proposals. 4.2 Service Business Analysis The Architecture/Designing business across the country is primarily made up of small- to mid-sized firms specializing in a particular architectural/design type. But there are also a few large firms that have almost dominated the design of large commercial and industrial facilities.   Initially, Contemporary Island Designers main competitors will be the small to midsized firms.   Strategy and Implementation Summary In the first year of business, Contemporary Island Designers will focus on the Kingston and St. Andrew and the Portmore area of St. Catharine. As the business grows, sales will expand throughout these areas and across the country, eventually spreading regionally. 5.1 Sales Strategy Sales in this  business is a direct result of exceptional client service. It is based on the firms  image and the referrals that result. The more clients this company pleases, the more referrals are given. We will work to provide a positive experience in all cases so our clients will refer and return to us for future work as well. 5.1.1 Sales Forecast Sales are broken down into three categories: Consultations, Design and Supervision of the construction. These three categories put together, may make up one architecture/design project. The totals for each project are based on a 10% cut from the total construction costs of each job. The following table and chart provides an overview  of our  forecast sales.   Actual sales could vary depending on the project size and budget. 5.2 Competitive Edge This business will have a competitive edge over both the larger and smaller firms because it will be composed of the  new generation of Architectural Technologists which are fluent in the digital world. Many firms today employ personnel of which find the computer 3D modeling a mystery, and most of those that do use the computer only have the ability to design in 2-D. Management Summary This business will start with one Architectural Technologists/Designer. In August of 2011, a clerical position will be added. By 2012, Other Architectural Technologists will be hired to compensate the increased work load. 6.1 Personnel Plan The following table summarizes our personnel expenditures for the first three years of operation. Financial Plan Contemporary Island Designers will increase growth and technology with cash flow as it increases through the years. Further money will be set aside to pay for further consulting as needed. 7.1 Important Assumptions The annual assumptions made in the following table are based on a stable economy. We will adjust these assumptions as changes occur in the now tumultuous economy the Bay Area is experiencing. 7.2 Key Financial Indicators The following benchmark chart indicates our key financial indicators for the first three years. 7.3 Break-even Analysis The following chart and table summarize our break-even analysis. Break-even Analysis Monthly Revenue Break-even $80,348 Average Percent Variable Cost 1% Assumptions: Estimated Monthly Fixed Cost $80,246 7.4 Projected Profit and Loss Net profit is virtually nonexistent for the first two years of operation, with respectable increases after that time. Our projected profit and loss is shown on the following table, with sales starting at $102,000 for the first year and climbing to $500,000 the third year. Pro Forma Profit and Loss 7.5 Projected Cash Flow Cash flow is vital to the well being of this company because of the duration of payment. The following chart and table below show cash flow projections. 7.6 Projected Balance Sheet The following table shows our projected Balance Sheet and net worth over the next three years. 7.7 Business Ratios Business ratios for the years of this plan are shown below. Industry profile ratios based on the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code 7383, Independent Artists (including Architects), are shown for comparison.

Family Travel and Tours Company Analysis

Family Travel and Tours Company Analysis SECTION ONE Family Travel and Tours has specialised in affordable, inclusive summer and winter sun travel packages for nearly forty years. The two base of our travel offerings have been price and predictability. Our prices were highly competitive, although they are less so now, and our customers want to know ahead of time exactly what they can expect from their travel experience. However, changes in the tourism market have caused our sales to stagnate, and we currently have zero growth in our customer numbers and fewer repeat customers. Although according to the National Travel Survey, the number of tourists taking inclusive packages have increased significantly in the past twenty years, so has the number of outlets through which customers can purchase their holiday travel (Shaw and Williams 2004). The primary reason for our lack of growth is this increased competition. In price, we have been adversely affected by a sharp increase in the number of discount travel companies available to price-conscious consumers, particularly over the internet. Whereas we once had only competition from a limited number of local agencies, some of those who would have been our customer base are beginning to experiment with online bookings. This opens our market up not only to other UK competitors, but also to agencies from other countries. For example, the American company Cheap Tickets offers international flights, tours and cruises at highly competitive rates. One has only to run a simple search under â€Å"discount travel packages† to reveal literally hundreds of competitors where our customers could take their holiday spend. Many of these competitors also do not maintain brick-and-mortar branches, allowing them to offer even more competitive prices as they have lower overhead costs. Additionally, each year as a greater percentage of the population becomes comfortable purchasing over the computer and more and more people try out online spending, FTTs competitiveness on the basis of price is reduced. Customers are also finding they can create their own packages, as they can now research hotels, transport and activities online and make their own reservations for all of them. More family-oriented travel destinations are also now providing inclusive packages on their own, and are able to offer these through online marketing. Whereas once our contacts with local travel companies allowed us to provide all-inclusive packages available to the consumer only through a travel agency, now there are a number of places the typical traveler can book their desired holiday. For example, Disneyland Paris has its own hotels, restaurants and transportation. As such it can market directly to the customer without need of a middle-man travel agency. Many other popular family tourist destinations have similar offerings. Cruises are another all-inclusive alternative that can now be booked directly without use of a travel agency. We have not reacted quickly or substantially enough changes in the market and in customers themselves, leaving us in a vulnerable position. FTT therefore needs to make changes to its products and marketing strategies quickly to retain its market position in the future. SECTION TWO FTT has benefited from catering to two distinct customer groups, although both on the basis of predictability and price. During the winter period, FTTs customer base tends to be older people escaping the winter cold. The repeat business in this niche is substantial and breaks down further into two groups. The first wants to return to the same location each year, often even requesting the same room. The second group prefers packaged tours, typically taking a tour of a different location each year. Both highly value predictability; that is, they want to eat the foods they are used to and stay inside their comfort zone even when traveling, rather than experience any kind of local culture. They also want to know when booking the details of their holiday, such as daily schedules, and want to spend their winter holiday in warm, sunny locations. This customer group has shown less stagnation, as the increase in competitors from online travel brokers has not penetrated this market group subst antially as of yet. It is likely that it will in the near future, however, particularly as the computer-friendly segment of the population expands and ages. Summer customers are typically middle-class families looking for a convenient and affordable holiday experience. They also want to know ahead of time the details of their holiday, but more to ensure activities and proper accommodations are available for their children than for any deep-seeded need for sameness. Destinations with child-friendly attractions such as beaches and theme parks are foundational in sales to this group. This segment of our customer base has suffered the most from increased competition. Where we or agencies like FTT were once the only place families could go to have their entire travel needs satisfied, online travel agencies and the attractions themselves are now providing equally planned holidays at prices at or below ours. As we examine what changes need to be made, it is helpful to consider tourist motivation from both reductionist and structuralist perspectives regarding our stagnant customer base. Reductionism views tourist motivation as â€Å"a tension between the search for the new or novel experience and the requirement for some degree of familiarity† (Shaw and Williams 2004, 140). This is true of both winter and summer customers. They wish to experience a holiday outside their current existence whilst maintaining a predictability that will allow them, whether older people or children, to be sure of a certain level of comfortability. It is unlikely that we will be able to compete strictly on price, as was the case many times in the past. Therefore expanding the balance of novelty and predictability in our current products is likely to be our strongest marketing asset for future growth. The question then becomes how to address these customer motivations in the changing and more competitive market. SECTION THREE Todays postmodern society is now consumer led, with the consumer dictating the location and activities they expect rather than simply choosing from a limited assortment of package options (Sharpley 2003). Customers can now choose not only travel options we have available, but also those provided by remote travel operators and attractions themselves. Further, customers are more and more likely to create their own travel packages, as they now have access to information on local attractions, lodging and transport for a given area. Their expectations are higher as far as flexibility and options are concerned, making it more difficult for FTT to plan or provide all-inclusive packages, particularly at any significant reduction in price. In addition, as the divide between work and leisure has been reduced, and recreational avenues are more available throughout the year, the novelty of taking the family to the beach or theme park has diminished. Consumers are more likely to seek a holiday experience that allows them to escape from their day-to-day reality rather than simply play instead of work (Sharpley 2003). Todays mass tourist â€Å"desires to be in a place which is both real and yet fantastic at the same time, and to encounter people who are both authentically other yet also fun and fictional† (Coleman and Crang 2002, 157). As such, our customers are beginning to demand travel packages that go beyond simply being at the beach or a certain location, but also offer some type of fantasy or adventurous opportunity. The immediate gratification and visually-based information preferences of the postmodern society also lend themselves strongly to the convenience of internet booking provided by our competitors (Sharpley 2003). Now customers can actually see the room where they will stay, satisfying their predictability needs, yet independently reserve it in an instant, with the simple click of a mouse. The entire transaction is charged effortlessly to their credit card, almost making it seem as though the holiday was free. This signals a change in our customer, especially those in the summer/family group. Whilst they still have a need for predictability so they can plan for their children and the children feel comfortable, there is an increased desire for new experiences, visually-based marketing, and easy, quick booking. SECTION FOUR One difficulty we are currently experiencing is the change in customers perceptions of our services and their attributes, an event common over time in service-based sectors (Palmer 1994). Whilst they are still strongly motivated by predictability, they seek at the same time authenticity in their holiday experience. Authenticity can be viewed from the perspective of the place visited, or from the perspective of the tourist doing the visiting. According to Handler and Saxton, the meaning of the term authenticity â€Å"refers to experiences through which tourists feel themselves to be in touch with both the real world and their real selves† (Shaw and Williams 2004). There are three kinds of authenticity in the tourist experience. Two, objective and constructive authenticity, are object-related. The third, activity-related authenticity, â€Å"refers to a state of being that is to be activated by tourist activities† (Shaw and Williams 2004). It is that place where â€Å"one is true to oneself† (Shaw and Williams 2004). For example, beach holidays may be seen as providing a relaxed, playful environment where people can be their true selves like they were as children, without the sometimes-false pretenses maintained at work or in the community. As our world becomes increasingly more connected, a certain homogeneity is affecting the authenticity of place. McDonalds restaurants provide an example. Although there is some regional adaptation (one can order wine in France or get kosher sandwiches in Israel), the chains product mix of a hamburger, fries, and a coke is constant throughout its restaurants in over 100 countries (Vignali 2001). Every time a Tesco moves into a town, a number of the areas local merchants are likely to go out of business, reducing the regional differences of that area as opposed to the rest of the country. Shaw and Williams (2004) report â€Å"Boorstin saw mass tourism producing a homogenization and standardization of the tourist experience through the commodification of culture† (135). The â€Å"developing global culture of tourism accepts anything or any place being produced and reproduced, moved and recontextualised in any place whatsoever this process marks the proliferation and increased co nsumption of experiences† that are depthless simulations, separated from tradition and history (Coleman and Crang 2002, 156). This makes it harder for FTT to provide unique travel packages. SECTION FIVE FTT needs to meet these changes in society and in the level of competition head on, addressing issues related to both our products and our target markets. First, we need to stop viewing the internet as our completion and begin to view it as a means of increasing our customer base. Although we have a website, it is not as user friendly as it could be, and does not offer a wide range of holidays. We could expand our travel product available online. Instead of simply listing our set packages with prices, as our current website offers, we could experiment with creating an a la carte method of creating packages. With the correct software, this would be possible to do completely online, and agents wanting to make a booking could even use the same online system when dealing with customers. In this scenario, a customer could access our website and choose the components of their holiday, appealing simultaneously to the postmodern desire for novelty and our established customer need for predic tability. For example, one family may want to have a less expensive lodging but hire a larger car. They would be able to do this on the website, and after all their bookings would have created their own package, as inclusive as they desire. This would also provide a price incentive as customers could pay for only the level of or types of provision they really desire. In addition to increasing the number of customers purchasing holidays from us, such flexibility and convenience in booking is also likely to increase the spend of our existing customer base. Whereas once one of our established customers might use us only for holiday travel, a convenient website might also lead to other bookings by the same customer, such as business travel, expanding our product base. We would also be able to attract more customers from outside the UK, or from areas inside the country where we do not have strong branch presence. We also need to change the product mix of our fixed-package offerings to include more novelty and fantasy. For example, we might add adventure activities to a beach holiday in such a way that they meet the safety needs of parents. Including water-skiing lessons as part of a beach holiday provides some adventure, but because it includes instruction and a supervised environment it retains the safety and predictability our customers value. The entire family can together enter into an activity outside their normal circumstances. For our winter/older customer group, changing the type of tour or travel available would probably not be popular, but adding additional and more adventuresome locations where a level of comfort and predictability could be guaranteed would be advantageous. For example, as Turkey seeks entrance into the European Union, it has become a country more open to tourism, providing a wealth of new places for tours, and usually at competitive prices. Increased availability and reduced price of air travel also now allow us to offer tours farther abroad, and we need to look into areas of the world such as India and Mexico, which were typically too far and too costly to be considered by our customers for a holiday. We would need to work closely with local lodging, transport and other providers to ensure the level of comfort our customers require, but these locations provide an opportunity to introduce adventure and fantasy in an appealing way to our older customer group. FTT should also expand our marketing via the internet, particularly to repeat customers and potential customers who have already initiated contact with us, such as those who stop by a branch to discuss travel options, but do not purchase right away. Email is a simple and extremely inexpensive way to contact customers with various offerings. This would also allow us to increase our target markets. For example, the UK Tourism Survey shows that an increasing number of young working-class families are taking holiday abroad. As younger people are more likely to have computer access and be knowledgeable in computer operation, it figures that this is a potential market where FTT may increase market share. Working class families without computers could still be included in the target market, but through other means of penetration. Over forty million loyalty cards were in circulation in the UK in 1999, and that number has undoubtedly increased substantially since (Evans 1999). Most cost-conscious Brits now have several such cards, and those motivated by price are particularly keen on using them. Partnering with several major cards could not only increase our visibility and presence, but attract customers that might not consider holiday travel. For example, we could offer a discounted package as a reward for points earned by a major loyalty card scheme, such as Tesco. Alternatively, we could join the scheme itself and offer points for a customers spend with us. In any case, being included in a scheme with extensive emails, newspaper inserts, and other advertising would reach cost-conscious consumers, a characteristic of our traditional customer base, who might not have considered package holidays before. We may also attract those who had purchased their packages elsewhere, at least to the point that they might inquire about our offerings, either in person or online. Some in this market will be surprised at the affordability of many packages. It is also likely that since customers attracted from this target market have never had a holiday abroad before, they would be nervous about both planning and going. As such they would find our servcies as a travel agency both convenient and comforting. Once they went once on a holiday package from us, we could make them part of our database, and provide various marketing endeavors to encourage their repeat patronage. The marketing changes discussed above give FTT the opportunity to once again dominate the travel package sector of our industry, to attract and retain customers from a wider customer base, and to ensure future growth and profitability. Our society is changing, but if we change with it we can continue for another forty years of travel excellence. REFERENCES Coleman, S. and Crang, M. (ed) (2002) Tourism: Between Place and Performance. Oxford: Berghahn. Evans, M. (1999) Loyalty schemes and the Orwellian Millennium. British Food Journal, 101(2): 132-147. Palmer, A. (1994) Principles of Service Marketing. London: McGraw-Hill. Sharpley, R. (2003) Tourism, Tourists and Society. Elm Publishing. Shaw, G. and Williams, A.M. (2004) Tourism, Tourists and Tourist Spaces. London: Sage. Vignali, C. (2001) McDonald’s: â€Å"think global, act local† the marketing mix. British Food Journal, 103(2): 97. WEBSITES www.cheaptickets.com www.cooptravelshop.co.uk www.expedia.co.uk www.gate1travel.com www.travelbag.co.uk

jane austen Essay -- essays research papers

Jane Austen lived from 1775 until 1817, a span of four decades that saw significant changes in English social, political, and economic life. At the time her birth, England was embroiled in a bitter struggle with its American colonies, the loss of which, several years later, proved to be a tremendous blow to English political and military prestige. Under the rule of George III, England's political climate became increasingly unstable with constant struggles between the King and Whig politicians. Ireland received its independence in 1782, although the violence that had long plagued the country continued to rage. Across the Channel, the French Revolution had begun and the English aristocracy watched in horror as royal heads began to roll. Between 1804 and 1814, (the period in which Austen did most of her writing) England was consumed by a fight against the power-hungry Napoleon. Although Austen was undoubtedly aware of these external events, they remain notably absent from her writing. She made it a point to write about only what she knew from first-hand experience and, having never left the South of England, her experience was rather limited. While some find this cultural myopia disturbing, others feel it to be one of Jane Austen's greatest strengths. By avoiding the pretense of discussing matters that fell outside of the realm of her daily experience, she could focus on what she knew best--the society of 19th-century English country families. Jane Austen's novels are, in this sense, highly autobiographical. Her characters share this insular view of their world, carrying on with dances and amateur theatricals, seemingly oblivious to any outside concerns. Jane Austen's world began in Steventon, where Jane's father held a post as rector. Born 16th December, 1775, Jane lived in the family's small parish house for the first 25 years of her life. Here, she led a quiet but pleasant existence, spending time at home, or visiting with local families of similar social status. She attended parties and dances at many of the local grand houses, including The Vyne, now owned by the British National Trust, a registered charity founded in 1895 to preserve places of historic interest. She also visited with her siblings in adjoining counties--Kent, in particular, became one of Jane's favourite places. Although she did not write any of the six main novels during these years, ... ...ps when they were on leave; and Edward from his house at Godmersham. Jane lived at Chawton until her declining health made it necessary for her and Cassandra to move to Winchester (only 15 miles from Chawton), where she could be closer to expert medical care. She, Cassandra, and Martha Lloyd made the trip in May of 1817. Her condition, known today to have been Addison's disease, left her in a continually degenerative state of health. She continued to write during this period, however, and Sanditon, the novel she was working on until her death, is a self-mocking treatment of the invalid state into which she could not prevent herself from slipping. Jane Austen died on 18th July 1817 in the arms of her beloved sister Cassandra. She is buried in the north aisle of Winchester Cathedral and only a simple plaque identifies her grave. Strangely, the stone makes no mention of the fact that Austen was a novelist, other than an oblique reference to the 'extraordinary endowments of her mind.' But, despite this modest resting place, Jane Austen has been immortalized by the body of work that survived her and continues to delight and entertain readers today, almost 200 years after her death.

Observation in Daisy Miller Essay -- Henry James, Daisy Miller

He said to himself that she was too light and childish, too uncultivated and unreasoning, too provincial, to have reflected upon the ostracism or even to have perceived it. Then at other moments he believed that she carried about in her elegant and irresponsible organism a defiant, passionate, perfectly observant consciousness of the impression she produced. (43) The socialites in Daisy Miller's world aspire to a perfection, a nobility, and a superlative of character. But character is a misleading word; interiority is important only insofar as it reflects the assumed depths that come with an appearance of refinement, for the relationships in "Daisy Miller: A Study" are formed by observation, not by conversation. Winterbourne's penetrating gaze dissects and complicates Daisy's appearance and, subsequently, personality, beyond what her own projection of an personality warrants. The narrator of Henry James's story furthers this atmosphere, peppering visual and even abstract sentences with modifiers and other syntactical strokes to force a system of visual refinement on the reader. The reader, however, must engage his imagination to form a picture of Daisy, her most evident quality, while he is kept privy to her relatively blank consciousness, thus ensuring an emotional detachment from her which allows him to "see" her as she really is. The heroi ne captivates Winterbourne, on the other hand, for most of the story, because he can only surmise as to the mystery, or "riddle," as the narrator calls it, of the "ambiguity of Daisy's behavior" beneath her deceptive exterior (46). His recognition of his reliance on the gaze, and on Daisy's vacuity otherwise, triggers his final disgust and enables him to select an answer from the ... ...he right way of regarding Miss Daisy Miller. (46) The vocabulary of observational terms which can double as evaluative verbs†¹"reflecting," "regarding"†¹strikes the philosophical change in Winterbourne's literal outlook, as does his using her full formal name as a way of sapping her of any suggestive mystery behind the ambiguous "she." He later repents slightly after Daisy's death, but seems not to take the lesson to heart. The real "study" of "Daisy Miller: A Study," then, is Winterbourne, whose faltering attempts to "study" Daisy we follow until his brief redemption, and of whom the final line of the narrative†¹reinforcing his return to the gaze, albeit now directed at an ostensibly more deserving, but still "very" refined foreigner†¹should come as no surprise: "...he is "'studying hard'†¹an intimation that he is much interested in a very clever foreign lady" (50). Observation in Daisy Miller Essay -- Henry James, Daisy Miller He said to himself that she was too light and childish, too uncultivated and unreasoning, too provincial, to have reflected upon the ostracism or even to have perceived it. Then at other moments he believed that she carried about in her elegant and irresponsible organism a defiant, passionate, perfectly observant consciousness of the impression she produced. (43) The socialites in Daisy Miller's world aspire to a perfection, a nobility, and a superlative of character. But character is a misleading word; interiority is important only insofar as it reflects the assumed depths that come with an appearance of refinement, for the relationships in "Daisy Miller: A Study" are formed by observation, not by conversation. Winterbourne's penetrating gaze dissects and complicates Daisy's appearance and, subsequently, personality, beyond what her own projection of an personality warrants. The narrator of Henry James's story furthers this atmosphere, peppering visual and even abstract sentences with modifiers and other syntactical strokes to force a system of visual refinement on the reader. The reader, however, must engage his imagination to form a picture of Daisy, her most evident quality, while he is kept privy to her relatively blank consciousness, thus ensuring an emotional detachment from her which allows him to "see" her as she really is. The heroi ne captivates Winterbourne, on the other hand, for most of the story, because he can only surmise as to the mystery, or "riddle," as the narrator calls it, of the "ambiguity of Daisy's behavior" beneath her deceptive exterior (46). His recognition of his reliance on the gaze, and on Daisy's vacuity otherwise, triggers his final disgust and enables him to select an answer from the ... ...he right way of regarding Miss Daisy Miller. (46) The vocabulary of observational terms which can double as evaluative verbs†¹"reflecting," "regarding"†¹strikes the philosophical change in Winterbourne's literal outlook, as does his using her full formal name as a way of sapping her of any suggestive mystery behind the ambiguous "she." He later repents slightly after Daisy's death, but seems not to take the lesson to heart. The real "study" of "Daisy Miller: A Study," then, is Winterbourne, whose faltering attempts to "study" Daisy we follow until his brief redemption, and of whom the final line of the narrative†¹reinforcing his return to the gaze, albeit now directed at an ostensibly more deserving, but still "very" refined foreigner†¹should come as no surprise: "...he is "'studying hard'†¹an intimation that he is much interested in a very clever foreign lady" (50).

Lower Levels of Convictions of Woman for Criminal Offences Essay

Assess explanations that sociologists have offered for lower levels of convictions of woman for criminal offences Sociologists have offered explanations for lower levels of convictions for woman for criminal offences. For example women are treated more leniently and woman are socialised to commit less crime in the first place. Most crime appears to be committed by men. According to recent national statistics men are four times more likely to commit a crime than woman. For example official statistics suggests there are gender differences in the types of crimes committed such as men committee violent crime and woman committee shoplifting. One explanation for the lower levels of convictions of women is that they are treated more leniently. One explanation that has been put forward is that the agents of criminal justice such as police officers, magistrates and judges are men and men are socialised to act in a chivalrous manner towards women. In the 1950s Pollack argued that men felt they had to protect women, so the criminal justice system is more lenient towards them. So there are some crimes that are less likely to turn into official statistics. This then does not give an accurate understanding in rates of offending and official statistics will show the extent of gender differences. Women are also more likely than men to be cautioned rather than prosecuted. For example, the Ministry of justice figures for 2009, show that 49% of female offenders were cautioned compared to only 30% of men. Similarly Hood’s study of over 3,000 defendants found that woman were about one-third less likely to be jailed in similar cases. However, there is evidence against the chivalry thesis. Box argues women who commit serious offences are not treated more favourably than men. He argues women show remorse which may be why they get cautioned rather than going to court. Heidensohn argues that in fact when women commit more serious crimes and deviate from expected norms of behaviour they are punished more harshly. For example stereotypical gender roles influence judges decisions. Heidensohn accepts there has been an increase in female crime but it’s due to poverty and being socially marginalised. Walklate argues that in rape case it is often not the defendant who is on trial but the victim. Steffensmeier argues that women are treated more leniently in court because judges are reluctant to separate woman from their children. Another reason that could explain lower conviction rates for women is that they are socialised to commit less crime in the first place. Functionalists argue that lower levels of females crime can be explained by gender role socialisation and the expressive role that Parsons argues is the one that women take on within the home. While men go out to work and take the instrumental role as provider, women are socialised to be gentle and nurturing. Parsons argues that boys reject feminine role models they engage in what Parson calls compensatory compulsory masculinity and become aggressive and anti-social behaviour which can slip over into an act of delinquency. Cohen argues that boys that are more likely to join gangs to gain stats and identity. Whereas the girls have their mothers as role models which means they are less likely to behave in anti-social ways. However, critics of the sex role theory are that this view is dated and boys and girls have different role models and influences in their life to the ones illustrated by Parsons. Walklate criticises sex role theory for its biological assumptions. Parson assumes that women are best suited to the expressive role as women gave birth to children. Feminists are interested in how patriarchal society controls women, and this control might explain lower levels of criminality and therefore lower conviction rates. Heidensohn argues the most different thing about women’s behaviour is how conformist it is as women commit fewer crimes than men. Heidensohn notes that women are controlled in a number of ways. For example women are controlled by the amount of time they have to spend looking aft er home and children. Also in the public domain women are controlled by the threat of male violence especially sexual violence. The Islington Crime Survey found that 54% of women avoided going out alone. This therefore reduces their opportunity to offend. However Carlen explains how some women commit crime when they are let down by patriarchal society. It is the failure of patriarchal society to deliver the promised deals that removes the controls. Cohen argues that working class women are led to conform by what she calls the class deal which is being offered rewards at work that allow a good standard of living. Also the gender deal where women have rewards from family life by living a normal domestic gender role. Critics argue that this underplays the importance of free will and choice in offending. Adler argues that as society changes so women may turn to crime. He uses the liberation thesis to argue that as women become liberated from patriarchy female crime rates will rise. As society changes so too have women’s roles within it. There is evidence to support this for example female offending rates have risen. However, critics argue that female crime rates started growing in the 1950s before the women’s liberation movement. In conclusion, the main reason why there are lower levels of convictions of women is because the criminal justice system is more lenient towards women. This is due to men protecting the women and official statistics show that men are more likely to commit crime than women.

How Does the English Language Vary at Individual?

How does the English language vary at individual, societal and international levels? English has become the first `truly global language` (McCrum et al. , 2002, p. 9). As a result of advances in technology and transport, varieties of English have spread throughout the world. This internationalisation has been described by Shreeve as an `identified phenomenon` (1999, p. 1). English now underpins the lives and cultures of a broad spectrum of people, with one in four people in the world now fluent users of English (Crystal, 2002, p. 10).Language involves making meaning and individual identity. It has been defined by Emmit et al. as mediating `between self and society [†¦], a way of representing the world to ourselves and others` (2006, p. 17). There are strong links between how individuals use different varieties of English and the social implications of why they do so. According to Swann: `Language varieties are not simply linguistic phenomena. They carry important social meanings ` (2007, p. 11). Many social factors have affected the English language, leading to the numerous varieties that are recognised and used today.Variety can be seen in the way every individual uses the English language, the interaction between social groups and in the way different countries are utilising the language. The numerous dialects in use in the UK demonstrate the diverse nature of the English language. Dialects include variations in syntax, morphology, lexicon and phonology. It has been argued from a prescriptive perspective, by linguists such as Quirk and Greenbaum, that dialects are not true forms of English and that there needs to be a `common core of English` (Quirk, 1972; in Kachru et al, 2009, p. 513).This is the pure and stringent form known as Standard English, which is traditionally linked to educated society. Standardisation consists of `language determination, codification and stabilisation` (Trudgill, 1992, p. 117). It is a model to be consulted; a unified code to refer to. Standard English is a publicly recognised, fixed form, a mastery of which affords `social and educational advantages` (Eyres, 2007, p. 16). It was formed by a particular social group, the group with the highest degree of social capital (Bourdieu, 1986, pp. 241-258), power and prestige (Rhys, 2007).Rhys, however, perceives that Standard English is a `social dialect` (2007, p. 190) and argues that it is not superior to other dialects (Rhys, 2007). Labov states that: `all languages and dialects should be viewed as equal in terms of their ability to communicate` (1969; in Bell, 1997, p. 241). While a standard form of English can be seen as a social and communicative necessity useful for educational and international affairs, vernacular forms should not be discounted or regarded as inferior. Dialects represent a smaller locality and are therefore more personal.A relevant example is the use of dialects in regional BBC news broadcasting. While the national news is presented in S tandard English, a code with a particular grammar, pronunciation and register, the BBC’s regional programmes showcase a local identity that cannot be found in national broadcasting. Interviewees and `talking heads` often have strong regional accents and speak in the dialectal forms familiar to their viewers. The regional programmes are personal to their audience and emphasise the benefits of language variation. Dialects represent social bonds and form because of linguistic choice.The formation of dialects has been explained by Freeborn: `Different choices were made among the varied speech communities forming the speakers of English in the past. These choices are not conscious or deliberate, but pronunciation is always changing, and leads in time to changes in word form` (1993, p. 43). The English language has fragmented into pockets of dialect due to social difference and geography. This is a microcosm of how international languages form; distance causes change. Freeborn beli eves that `all dialects of a language are rule-governed systems` (1993, p. 0). All vernaculars are consistent, although they may not have the written grammar core (Quirk, 1972; in Kachru et al, 2009, p. 513) that Standard English can boast. There is great variation in dialect throughout the United Kingdom. In 1921, Sapir classified his notion of `dialect drift`. He explained how `language moves down time in a current of its own making. It has a drift` (1921; in Rhys, 2007, p. 2007). This idea relates to how language evolves; lexical and phonological elements are absorbed and new dialects are formed.However, while language is ever-changing, it is apparent in some cases that dialects are actually becoming more similar. This is defined by Rhys as dialect levelling (2007); when `regular contact between speakers of different dialects [causes them to] lose linguistic features of their dialect` (2007, p. 204). In the modern world this levelling process is a consequence of improved transpor t links, migration and the growth of media and broadcasting. The urbanisation of the UK means that rural areas are not as isolated from cities as they were when Sapir wrote of a dialect drift.Advances in technology and industry mean that the boundaries of dialect, known as `isoglosses` (Freeborn, 1993), are being broken down. People within dialect boundaries hear more varieties of English than they used to, so they naturally accommodate words and pronunciations into their speech. This process of change, however, occurs over a long period of time. Therefore, making sweeping statements about the future of dialects is difficult. Major changes to language and dialect will not be visible for decades.Different speech communities will always make different language choices (Freeborn, 1993), so there will always be regional variation. While language varies because of social groupings, there is also great variety within the speech patterns of an individual. Cheshire has found evidence that ` speakers continually reassess the context and adjust their speaking style accordingly` (1982, p. 125). People alter the way that they speak depending on the person or group that they are speaking to, the location that they are in, the type of conversation and the topic being discussed (Swann and Sinka, 2007).Bell is adamant that the `person or people you are speaking to will have the greatest effect on the type of language you will use` (1991; in Swann and Sinka, 2007, p. 230). He believes that the presence of another person or group causes people to change their linguistic code. This is known as the theory of `Audience Design` (Bell, 1997, p. 240). People feel the urge to fit in and adapt their language to meet their social and psychological needs. Audience Design can also be related to the idea of language performance (Hodge and Kress, 1988). People take on a variety of roles in their conversations due to a feeling of being atched and critiqued. Swann and Sinka perceive that `spea kers can be seen as relatively creative designers of language` (2007, p. 255). Language is a creative medium, in which the performer changes their approach depending on the recipient. The way that we utilise language and make choices suits our individual discursive requirements. People improvise with language as they try to adapt to new linguistic codes. Individuals feel the need to inhabit certain conversational personas and to adopt the linguistic features of their interlocutors. This phenomenon is an element of `Communication Accommodation Theory` (Giles, 1971).Giles and Powesland explain that accommodation can be `a device by the speaker to make himself better understood` (1997, p. 234) and that it can also be regarded as: `an attempt on the part of the speaker to modify or disguise his persona in order to make it more acceptable to the person addressed` (1997, p. 234). The concept of disguise is often associated with deception, but the linguistic adaption proposed by Accommodat ion Theory derives from constructive ideals. The ability to alter and weave linguistic codes in different situations is a socially integrative mechanism.Variety in an individual’s use of language exists to meet the expected communicative requirements of society. The English language is forever evolving and is gradually becoming a global language. This is due, in part, to globalisation. Contemporary globalisation is often associated with the ‘shrinking’ of time and space. This has affected international trade and industry and also the way that the English language is used at global level. Rapid developments in technological and digital communications have led to the description of the world as a global village (Hollis, 2008, p. 38). As the world becomes theoretically smaller, the development of English as a global language mirrors how our own standard form has developed in the UK. The world requires a stable and recognisable common code for effective global commun ication in sectors such as business, science, politics and commerce. It could be argued that both Standard English and a new international standard are impersonal varieties of English. These language forms are functional; a means to an end, whereas dialect and variety within a country could be seen as representative of a more personal identity.Crystal perceives that there are the `closest of links between language dominance and economic, technological and cultural power` (2003, p. 7). In the case of English developing into a global language the dominant force is the USA, which holds economic and political power. Due to the global position of the USA, countries which hold a lower international status are driven to adopt the English language. It appears that a universal, international standard is developing from an `urgent need to communicate at world level` (Crystal, 2002, p. 11).An example is Kenya, which holds English as a joint official language with Swahili. While English is `not necessarily welcomed`, it is learnt in Kenyan schools and `enjoys a high status` associated with social and economic success (Heardman, 2009, p. 20). The Kenyan adoption of the English language demonstrates a need for their country to function in an international realm. There are opposing views on the idea that English should become the first global language. Some see it as an encroachment on culture and diversity, while others regard it as imperative to communication in a modern world.In 1994, French legislation was passed in order to halt the advance of English into French language and culture. The `loi Toubon` (named after the Minister for Culture, Jacques Toubon), called for a ban on: `the use of foreign [English] in business or government communications, in broadcasting, and in advertising if â€Å"suitable equivalents† existed in French` (Murphy, 1997, p. 14). This law was a linguistic intervention, an attempt to prevent the fragmentation of the French language and to retain national identity. In this case, the `borrowings` (Dubois et al, 1973; in Swann, 2007, p. 4) that the French language had taken from English were becoming too frequent and were seen as being detrimental to France’s status as a historical and international power. The arrival of the internet, however, led French lawyer Thibaut Verbiest to enquire: `How can the Touban law be applied to internet sites created in languages other than French, that may be needed for the discharge of someone’s duties? ` (2005, in Swann, 2007, p. 37). As France and other countries have discovered, the adoption of the English language for global means is a modern, national necessity.The positive effects of English are apparent in other countries around the world. In India: `English acts as a levelling rather than divisive agent, smoothing out the intra-vernacular conflicts of a multi-lingual nation` (Chakrawarti, 2008, p. 39). While language variety in every country is vital to culture an d national identity, English as an international language offers a common form to be consulted and utilised. Evidence that a global language does not encroach on national identity can be seen in forthcoming changes to the English National Curriculum.Andalo reports that: `from 2010, it will be a compulsory part of the National Curriculum for children from the age of seven to fourteen to study a modern foreign language` (2007). The English government holds foreign languages in high regard and sees them as vital to a rounded education. The English language is a stabilising force, rather than a dominating one. The evolution of global English is linked to linguistic `stabilisation` (Trudgill, 1992, p. 117); a question of international need in a digital age, rather than a means of eliminating international language diversity and national identities.Language helps us to form ideas and process information on an individual level. It gives us our identity and allows us to make meaning within our social groups. Language will develop further as globalisation continues, as we strive to share meaning and communicate internationally. Crystal has suggested the idea of a `universal bidialectism` (2002, p. 294). His perception is that: `We may all need to be in control of two Englishes – the one which gives us our mutual or local identity, and the one which puts us in touch with the rest of the human race` (2002, p. 284).However, it could be suggested that we will be universally tridialectal. There is the descriptive regional variation within our national language, the prescribed standard form required for educational purposes and then the newer globalised form of English with which we communicate with the world. The evolution of the English language will derive from international necessity, but will not eliminate the fact that language always returns to the individual and their place in the world. List of References Andalo, D. (2007) All Primary Schools to Teach Foreign Languages by 2010. Online]. Available at: http://www. guardian. co. uk/education/2007/mar/12/schools. uk [Accessed: 2 November 2009] Bell, A. (1997) ‘Language Style as Audience Design’. pp. 240-257, in Coupland, N. and Jaworski, A. (eds) Sociolinguistics: a Reader and Coursebook. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan Bourdieu, P. (1986) ‘The Forms of Capital’. Handbook of Theory and Research for the Sociology of Education. 24 (1) pp. 241-258 Chakrawarti, P. (2008) ‘Decolonising and Globalising English Studies: The Case of English Textbooks in West-Bengal, India’.English in Education. 42 (1) pp. 37-53 Cheshire, J. (1982) Variation in an English Dialect: a Sociolinguistic Study. New York: Cambridge University Press Crystal, D. (2002) The English Language: A Guided Tour of the Language. 2nd edn. London: Penguin Books Ltd Crystal, D. (2003) English as a Global Language. 2nd edn. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press Emmit et al. (2006) Language and Lear ning: An Introduction to Teaching. 3rd edn. Oxford: Oxford University Press Eyres, I. (2007) English for Primary and Early Years: Developing Subject Knowledge. 2nd edn.London: SAGE Freeborn, D. (1993) Varieties of English: An Introduction to the Study of Language. 2nd edn. Basingstoke: Macmillan Giles, H. (1971) ‘Patterns of evaluation in reactions to R. P. , South Welsh and Somerset accented speech’. British Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology. 10 (1) pp. 280-281 Giles, H. and Powesland, P. (1997) Accomodation Theory pp. 232-239 in Coupland, N. and Jawowski, A. eds. (1997) Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan Heardman, K. (2009) An Introduction to Linguistics – The Study of Language. [PowerPoint Presentation].Faculty of Education: University of Plymouth Hodge, R. and Kress, G. (1988) Social Semiotics. Cambridge: Polity Press Hollis, N. (2008) The Global Brand: How to Create and Develop Lasting Brand Value in the World Market. Hampshire: Palgrave Macmillan Kachr u, B. (2009) The Handbook of World Englishes. Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell McCrum, R. et al. (2002) The Story of English. London: Faber and Faber Murphy, C. (1997) ‘The Spirit of Cotonou’. The Atlantic Monthly. 279 (1) pp. 14-16 Rhys, M. (2007) ‘Dialect Variation in English’. pp. 189-221, in Graddol, D. t al. (eds) Changing English. Abingdon: Routledge Shreeve, A. (1999) `The Power of English`. English in Education. 33 (3) pp. 1-5 Swann, J. (2007) ‘English Voices’, pp. 5-38, in Graddol, D. et al. (eds) Changing English. Abingdon: Routledge Trudgill, P. (1992) ‘Standard English: What it Isn’t’. pp. 117-128, Bex, T. and Watts, R. (eds) Standard English: The Widening Debate. London: Routledge Swann, J. and Sinka, I. (2007) ‘Style-Shifting, Code-Switching’. pp. 227-269, in Graddol, D. et al (eds) Changing English. Abingdon: Routledge