Thursday, October 31, 2019

Engineering Design Process Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Engineering Design Process - Essay Example Among the fundamental elements of the design process are the establishment of objectives and criteria, synthesis, analysis, construction, testing, and evaluation". (Engineering Design, 2006) problem, an existing condition in need of change, a challenge to look ahead for problematic conditions of the future, of design and construction. Because it is important for the engineers to be sure that they understand the problem thoroughly, the first step in the design process is for each group to state the problem. (Garmire, 2002) To recognise the problem requires the ability to think laterally, to anticipate the unexpected and to appreciate the aesthetics of problem solving as well as the material aspect. The aspects within which the problem is being addressed must be understood. (Eng, 2006) Because statements of problems exist within a context, they usually involve bias and often imply solutions. Effective engineers learn to observe the context and eliminate bias. They must clarify the problem statement by looking at each word or phrase and redefine it to make the statement more precise. What is the real problem (Garmire, 2002) Usually brainstorming is done in this stage and is effective enough to reach to a reasonable conclusion. option to confirm its feasibility before being formulated a... They must clarify the problem statement by looking at each word or phrase and redefine it to make the statement more precise. What is the real problem (Garmire, 2002) Usually brainstorming is done in this stage and is effective enough to reach to a reasonable conclusion. 3. Develop possible alternative solutions: Choosing the right design requires a creative team effort to identify several possible solutions, and evaluate development of the preferred option to confirm its feasibility before being formulated and made. (Eng, 2006) This enables engineers to study and analyse in detail each and every alternative solution with respect to its opportunities and drawbacks. Performance, cost control and complexity objectives must be considered and balanced during design evaluation. Example: Financial concerns might make an engineering company choose rental over equipment purchase. Specific performance objectives, that the new system must perform online data processing may result in a complex network design for which control procedures must be established. Evaluating and selecting the best design involves a balance of system objectives that will best support organisational goals. 4. Select the best solution: Out of several possible alternates, only one is chosen in the light of its effectiveness and accuracy. After choosing the final solution, the design specifications are said to be frozen, as this formal step avoid cost overruns and missed user expectations. 5. Prototype development: Prototyping acts as an iterative approach to the engineering design process. During each iteration, requirements and alternative solutions to the problems are identified and analysed, new solutions are designed, and a

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Challenges of a Community College Student Personal Statement

Challenges of a Community College Student - Personal Statement Example I registered for 12 credits this semester, which includes 2 English classes and 1 Math. I think I doing good on my Math subject, great so far, even though it's hard to keep up in this 4 hour class. Then again, I try my very best with the help of energy drinks and coffee. My English classes require too much time, but I still manage to do it, even with procrastination. My son goes to the daycare 5 times a week, from 6am to 7pm. He is basically spending his whole day there. Daycare is not a place for a child to grow up. I see family reunions, birthdays; religious celebrations pass by without me. I am never there. I always have the same reason, that I am at school or I have to work to do. Because I have to work long hours, this becomes a conflict with the time I use up for my school. Giving time for my family and friends gets tougher, when I have to work on an 8 to 9 hour job basis and then spend about half of the day at school. Although school and work drives me nuts, the biggest challenge for is not having enough time for my family and friends. My work schedule is Sundays thru Thursdays, from 10pm till 7am. Not only do I have an impossible schedule, but the quantity of work that I perform every night. I work for logistics at Target. Every night I help with the truck unload procedure by scanning 2,500 to 3,000 boxes per truck.

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Specific Learning Difficulties: Dyslexia

Specific Learning Difficulties: Dyslexia Reading has become essential skill for all societies. it affects social development of these communities. Students with dyslexia have difficulties in reading skill and that may impede the development of other skills they have. Moreover, Dyslexia has been defined by medical and social approach. The need to work with children with dyslexia direction to use intervention programs. For example, Reading Recovery program. In addition, teachers tend to teaching students with reading difficulties by Whole Language Instructions and Code- Emphasis Instructions. On the other hand, there many dyslexia friendly schools in deferent countries which provide many facilities for students with dyslexia. This paper will look into different definitions of dyslexia , causes of dyslexia will be discussed . Intervention for dyslexia will be examined in terms of stages of intervention in England , issues associated with intervention and also focus on a major world-wide programme: Reading Recovery. Teaching Me thods for students with reading difficulties will be examined in terms of Whole Language Instructions and Code- emphasis Instructions. Finally, there will be discussion for Facilitating dyslexia friendly schools. Contents Introduction 1. Definition of dyslexia.. 2. Causes of dyslexia 3. Intervention for dyslexia 3.1 Definition of intervention 3.2 Stages of intervention in England 3.3 A major world-wide programme: Reading Recovery.. 3.4 Issues related to intervention 4. Methods of teaching reading skills for children with dyslexia. 4.1 Whole Language Instructions 4.2 Code- Emphasis Instructions 5. Facilitating dyslexia friendly schools Conclusion Bibliography INTRODUCATION Reading is a necessary skill for success in all societies, and the ability to read throughout various contexts effectively likely to improve self confidence and social progress as well as ones potential carrier. However, Reading difficulties is the problem that faces many students with dyslexia across different educational system. It seems clear that there are two main methods of conceiving LD in general and the natural reality concept of dyslexia. One main definition relates to psychological/medical model and the other is social model (Kevin, 1999). It is frequently point out that reading skill is complicated because it is based on two main processes which are coding, comprehension. They require learning all alphabetical characters and the outcome of knowledge as well as interaction with the readers own experiences and access to results through the text. According to H. Lee Swanson, Karen R. Harris, Steve Graham (2006 ) reading difficulties is deficit in learning processes which are include visual perception and perceptual Kinetic perception,.. etc. They established training programs for this processes which are prerequisite for learning to read, such as audio and visual perception. However, this trend has been criticized by researchers, because theoretical philosophy was weak and it was not based on scientific basic due to it was certified to see only virtual behavior. On the other hand, in the sixties and seventies of the last century has returned to focus on direct teaching and structured learning, which focus on Code -emphas is and Whole Language (Hoien, 2000).Unfortunately, there is no known medical alternatives to reduce the severity of cognitive processing delay in pupils with reading difficulties. Therefore, teachers are required to work instructional adjustments as a result, students with reading difficulties are to be successful in an suitable an academic environment that help to reduce reading difficulties (such as eliminate any source of disturbance at mainstream classrooms and resource room). One of the most important instructional adjustments is use of basic procedures for appropriate intervention in early stage of educational ladder to avoid reading problems in students through use of various programs of intervention by specialized teachers and clinical psychologist to apply. Moreover, another instructional adjustment which is methods of teaching students with dyslexia how do they read?(Kevin L. Huitt ,1999 ). On the other hand , dyslexia friendly schools are an appropriate environment for children with dyslexia are to provide effective support to them and they have awareness of the special needs of these students. They are to be provided with effective support and awareness of their additional requirements. The aim of this brief essay is to discuss different definitions of dyslexia. Intervention to reduce reading difficulties in students with dyslexia will be discussed with a focus on stages of intervention in England , issues associated with intervention and also focus on a major world-wide programme: Reading Recovery. Teaching Methods for students with reading difficulties will be examined in terms of Whole Language Instructions and Code- emphasis Instructions . Finally, Facilitating dyslexia friendly schools will be discussed in brief. 1. Definition of Dyslexia It seems a controversial issue relatively in the beginning, because dyslexia has defined in many approaches, some of the definitions reflect the theories of causation, while the other definitions in an attempt to describe dyslexia. It seems clear that dyslexia involves more than one condition as it conveys a conceptual difficulty in reading skills for the child as well as a number of other reasons (Rice, 2004). There are many of reliable definitions that have been adopted from a wide range of different instruction environments, such as definition of the British Association for Dyslexia (2001), which seems to be a descriptive definition , which indicate that dyslexia can be seen as : A combination of abilities and difficulties which affect the learning process in one or more of reading, spelling, and writing. Accompanying weakness may be identified in areas of speed of processing, short-term memory, sequencing, auditory and / or visual perception, spoken language and motor skills. It is particularly related to mastering and using written language, which may include alphabetic, numeric and musical notation ( Reid, 2002). It is agreed widely that reading skill is key for all people to complete the learning process successfully and appears to be agreement that the learning process needs to be a large number of simple skills, which requires the functions are ordered from different regions of the brain (both left and right from the Brocaà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s area and Hamichaer ), moreover, the sequence of actions that may make it one of the most complex operations. It is clear that all teachers, practitioners and parents should have information about children with dyslexia and the most important problems they face, especially in reading to understand the definition of the educational process (British Dyslexia Association, 2003). On the other, the World Federation of Neurologists (1968) defined it as; Dyslexia is a disorder manifested by difficulty in learning to read despite conventional instruction and socio-cultural opportunity. It is dependent upon fundamental cognitive disabilities which are frequently of constitutional origin. (Mortimore, 2003, by Reid, 1994, p.2). If we pay enough attention to this definition it is clear that the greatest changes considerate on the late sixties that stress and characterized problems to complete reading process to be successful, and the new millennium, that is a interested far more than three different stages of description, the first, behavioural, which is the most important element for teachers and practitioners to work daily with children with dyslexia, particularly in the school, and second, cognitive which is more relate to teacher learning difficulties who is responsible for assessment of any kind of learning difficulties and then Preparation an individual education plan, third, the level of biological, which refers to dyslexia for kind of nervous-developmental in developmental deficit of biological origin(Frith, 2003). However, if we compare the definition of the British Dyslexia Association in the definition of (2001) of dyslexia with the equivalent, which presented by the World Federation of Neurology (1968), we will note other potential conflicts, according to the conceptual dimension to the definition of dyslexia. On the other hand , it is perfectly balanced in those who wish to present the strengths and weaknesses of children with dyslexia: dyslexia is a combination of difficulties, and capacity that may affect the learning process in one or more of the writing, reading and spelling. It might be possible, identify weaknesses in visual perception, processing speed of the short-term memory, sequencing, as well as audio, spoken language and motor skills. and that are relevant to mastering and using written language, which may contain the alphabet and identify the digital as well as musical. 2. Causes of Dyslexia According to ( Rice, 2004 ) there is still no consensus on the underlying causes of dyslexia. It is frequently point out that not all the difficulty in reading or writing means dyslexia. However, there are many scientists who believe that inheritance and hearing problems at an early age may cause dyslexia. This will be discussed in more details. 2.1 Inheritance May not be possible that dyslexia is not a strong characteristic that will be inherited, even if one or both parents have it. On the other hand, this may be possible. it clear that forty per cent of the people and explained that dyslexia has a history of learning difficulties in their family. According to Brain scanning of children with dyslexia by specialists in the field of medicine that bunches of cells beneath the surface in the front left side of the brain are responsible for reading problems (ibid.). This group of cells moving on the surface of brain cells while growing in the fetus, which does not occur with children with dyslexia. In addition, they have to be smaller mango cellular system, which is liable for recognition, for example, symbols and characters, which leads to difficult to read. They usually tend to use the right part for these skills, which are not designed for this job and that six times slower. It is clear that scientists consider these genetic variations and statistics that the inheritance is one of causes of dyslexia. 2.2 Hearing Problems at an Early Age It is frequently point out that the first five years of a childs life are important for the ability to read and write in accordance with natural languages. In the event that the child is suffering from colds or other continuously during the first years of his life, without medical intervention prior to the visit of the health center, may be exposed to ban prayer from time to time and thus may lead to hearing loss. This means that there is a break in the learning process of the child because of those problems in the hearing. If the child does not have the ability to hear words correctly, and thus lead to delays in the phonemic awareness of the child that leads to learning difficulties, such as dyslexia (Bradford, 2009). 3. Intervention for Dyslexia 3.1 Definition of intervention According to Wall (2003) definition of intervention as An intervention is an interaction between two people to bring about change and, therefore, early years practitioners undertake interventions each time they are working with children. Interventions may be short, medium or long term and will be planned carefully to ensure effectiveness and appropriateness. and He suggested idea which is what and how should practitioners draw up a plan or design different and useful intervention programs for each child as a case individually, by clarifying how it could encourage teachers or staff of these children collaborative work by each category of activity classroom, which can be caused by structured plan which made through specialists. It can be seen that intervention has become a significant key in resolving of psychological educational issues which is more effective to clarify access for these issues or problems and also it is useful in reaching positive results, especially for children with learning difficulties who are at risk for any particular type of learning difficulties. It is important to note that it should be look at if one parent has dyslexia, which is likely to move to one of their children as a result it is important there is focus on the family history, which may to be assisted to alert teachers and parents therefore, it may get appropriate intervention program for these children (Augur,1993 ). If we pay enough attention to Augur indicate that developmental dyslexia is justified for certain reasons, first reason, it may be very difficult to clarify kind of developmental dyslexia that a child is born thought according to the results of brain injury as a result of stroke or an accident, etc..Moreover, the second reason which is that many specialists agree that most of these children, who are smart in most courses with the exception of some basic academic skills that need to develop and therefore it is likely that the teachers are providing success and development of the natural growth of children with dyslexia, if they were with the fact that dyslexia may not be curable but it needs to useful intervention programs. 3.2 Stages of intervention in England According to DfES (2003) that stages of intervention used in schools in Britain, with almost identical stages in America, called ( waves ). Wave 1, which is refer to initial education for literacy in schools in that there must be effective integration of all children, high quality and a daily reading and writing hour with appropriate differentiation required. Whereas, if the children do not respond correctly to primary classroom of literacy guidance therefore, intervention will be necessary. In addition, Wave 2 shows a set of specific interventions which are additional a specific time, which refer to some children who are in need of support services to accelerate development and they can work at or above age-related t the highest of expectations . Wave 3 which is describe the governance for a small number of children and intervention is necessary to provide specifically for the processor speed of evolution or allow children to achieve their potential. It is clearly that , this could include the 01:01 or specific interventions, so when it comes to older children, which is usually refer to the approach set out specifically for children that have been identified as requiring special education support by working in the school environment. The best example, as noted by the researcher that Wave 3 intervention which is reading recovery. 3.3 A major world-wide program : Reading Recovery Reading Recovery has been designed by Marie Clay, who is a researcher in New Zealand (Reading Recovery Council , 2006). Mary did studies which allowed her to develop appropriate methods for the detection and intervention for reading difficulties for children. In addition, this program is studies based intervention that is applied in more than 10000 schools in New Zealand, Canada, United Kingdom and Australia. it was a developed to offer intervention for children who have reading difficulties ( Au, Mason1990). According to Au, Mason (1990) The main of reading recovery is to offer intensive one-on-one support children who have reading difficulties in first grade and thus provide appropriate intervention to help them succeed before they improve their reading difficulties (Savage, John 1994). Moreover, it is aimed at less than twenty percent of school classes in first grade classroom . It is clear that it is not easy to make a decision about who children should be given to this program. children are taking a test and depending on the lowest scores for this test and then to hold this program for children got the lowest scores by trained teachers in the application of this program for children who have difficulties reading to reduce these difficulties and to read well (Kline, Anne 1997). It is frequently point out reading recovery is developed to be compatible with the mainstream school system. Each school needs to confirm that teachers should have the ability to download the program continuously during the year. It is clear that it has the ability to work in a variety of levels for instance it works in effective way with school, teachers, children, and in education system to provide assistance in reducing reading difficulties in children (Reading Recovery National Network,2006 ). Savage, John (1994) pointed out that Reading Recovery which is a program works differently for each child who is in need of this program. Selection of children for this program based on the report which is submitted by the teacher, and a survey about what child has knowledge of letters and concepts about print process, text reading . In addition, the program starts with what child is to have the ability to do, then it focus on what they are trying to learn and work what child need to learn about reading (Reading Recovery National Network,2006 ). According to Chapman, Turner ( 2003) the program is designed to work one-on-one instruction for thirty minutes a day for a period of twelve to twenty weeks through trained teachers. Moreover, it is designed to regular classroom reading guide. In addition, It is set out to assist based on childs strengths. The main concentration on one-on-one lessons is concentrate on comprehending the various messages in reading and students have the ability to build messages in writing skill (Reading Recovery National Network). According to Savage, John ( 1994 ) reading recovery include that : Firstly : Reading Familiar Books : students tend to read books that they enjoy. and teachers will observe how child read this book then they will assist the child while children are reading this book. Secondly : Assessment of reading strategies: the students will have a book that have never read it, in the previous lesson, the child will read that book for the teacher, then the teacher will use recorder while the child is read. Thirdly : Working on Letter recognition: The student will be trained to look at the different letters, and begins to be familiar with them. Fourthly : Introducing new books :The teacher will choose a number of different books that are suitable for students reading level. Finally : Reading new books: The teacher will show a new book for the student, and then the student will be supposed to read it in the next lesson. In addition, the teacher and student will discuss the book and provide assistance to prepare for the understanding of the story in that book before read it. It is clear that Reading program was designed to meet the special the individual needs of reader who has difficulties in reading, which seems different from child to child. Working Individually with students, preparing lessons depend on the individual needs of the child, will help to develop childrens reading (hapman, Iversen, Tunmer 2005). It is clear that the reading recovery has extensive one-on-one instruction. Not surprising to anyone that Intensification of the program and work individually with students which is influential to stage of intervention for those students who have reading difficulties. Recent research indicates that the method of one-on-one is more effective in teaching in regular classes that lead to achieving the individual needs for each student (Chapman, Tunmer 2003). Reading Recovery Council (2006 ) pointed out that many of the children are in different levels reading skill , establishment of lesson for all student is not always effective to that a student who does not understand what may be understood by other child and therefore teachers can create a lesson that will contain five elements: working with letters, reading books which are familiar to student, observe and record what is read by the student and reading new curriculum (Barnes, Bonnie 1996). it is possible to assist students achieve effective reading performance by the individual needs of them early. In addition, working individually with students to guide them educating reading strategies as well as to provide some time for the application so that they will be capable to achieve in grade stage (Educational Commissions System of the States 2000). It seems clear that the strategy of one-on-one which allows teachers to provide students all comments, compliments and questions that the teacher knows a student who has the ability to answer those questions. In addition to, the reading recovery teachers have the ability to help the student and give feedback for the work he is doing (Barnes, Bonnie 1996). On the other hand , Reading recovery will take 30 minutes for each student .It must take into account that there are some things that may be affect the students when they are in the classroom, for example: days of illness, field trips and workshops (Barnes, Bonnie 1996). Barnes, Bonnie (1996) indicate that time consuming is one of the problems related to educating Reading Recovery through the amount of paperwork which are side by side with the teaching of reading recovery to individual students. For example, a written analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the child, the report of the expectations of progress through the identification of long-term and short-term goals to child daily lesson programme. Another drawback of reading recovery is teachers. Many teachers do not usually have support from their colleagues in the school as well as they have difficulty in access to feedback on their lessons . Moreover, there are many teachers in the classroom do not have a sense of the impact of reading recovery program on the children because it is presented only one or two students in their classrooms (Noble, Jo Anne 1995). In addition, There are many teachers who are working only has the half-time reading recovery teacher. Therefore, they have the ability to service only about eight children each academic year. In addition, many schools have approximately a hundred and fifty first grade students f, this is evidence that only about sex or seven percent of children have the ability to receive reading recovery programme (Barnes, Bonnie 1996). As has been mentioned before the goal of reading recovery is to guide children in learning techniques and assist to practice time , children have the ability to deliver on grade level (Frankas, George 2000).However, reading recovery is working , regardless of economic status, gender and social status of the group of children that led to the acceleration of the effective progress this programme (Educational Leadership 1990). Centre, Wheldall (1992) pointed out that to make reading recovery programme more effective must change three elements: Behavioural change in teachers. The child behaviour change acquired through teachers. There is a need for the school to change the regulatory requirements for administrators and teachers. It is clear that the results of reading recovery program is that it offers effective intervention for students in grade school and then treatment, instead of falling into the failure in reading difficulties for these children. In addition, it is providing strong support for teachers and enable them to become more effective in reading recovery programme . Moreover, the most important outcome of the program is to be has number of children in grades 2-6 to have a few problems in reading difficulties once and then the program is implemented effectively and correctly (Noble, Jo Anne 1995). 3.4 Issues associated with intervention It is frequently point out that there is controversy about how to build effectively intervention program . Researcher will present the most important factors agreed for potential success in the planning and production of the correct intervention program. First, it taking into account the assessment procedures and examination in psychology that can explain exactly what are the skills which need to develop in children. According to Fawcett and Lynch (2000)to examine dyslexia test (designed by Nicolson and Fawcett, 1996) will be the most successful for all the teachers to their schools. In addition, this test has become highly efficient because it is interested in semantic and verbal fluency as well as knowledge of numbers. Another reason which is how quickly the application of this test. For example, it is take one minute to the task of writing and one minute in the skill of reading, moreover, spelling and other skills that could take two minutes. According to Pumfrey and Reason (2001) enhance the quantity and quality of cognitive development of children is significant factor to reach the appropriate intervention for them, it is important to take into account to confirmation that intervention at the earliest time that in order to that this procedure may not lead to a delay which is undesirable for children who have reading difficulties. In the same context, we may emphasize that the assessment procedures and examination need to be more focus by that stage, even before the application to avoid any future problems (Talcott,, 1997). However, the researcher as a teacher for special education as well as lecturer at the Department of Special Education recognizes that there are no tests in a uniform and there is a clear lack of evaluation of courses in schools in Saudi Arabia. It is clear that this is an opportunity for the researcher to obtain the correct method of assessing and screening for children who have difficulties reading in schools and the transfer of these measures and the right strategies for the development of the educational process in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Talcott, (1997) indicate that there is an Other factor which is related to people who may play an active role of detection of children who have dyslexia. Therefore, there are some people around the children who have learning difficulties and they who provide full care to alleviate the difficulties that may be in these children as well as they are trying to find the appropriate methods in educational process such as, parents, professionals as well as specialists in health care 4. Teaching Methods of Reading Skills for Children with Dyslexia As has been mentioned before is that in fact the intervention to address reading difficulties in children with dyslexia is a successful strategy to provide support appropriate for them. But it is frequently point out that , it is to look for on the strengths and weaknesses of the learner and learning styles appropriate through the school by the teacher, which is suited to the needs of each individual. Because it is known to us that each and every child with dyslexia is different according to the file and function of cognitive and learning styles appropriate to him (Reid ,1997 ). 4.1 Whole Language Instruction According to the study carried out by Frank, 1978, it was having an impact in supporting the Whole Language Instruction, teaching reading is a natural counterpart to learn to speak the sense of learning to read instinctive. In addition, Whole Language Instruction may focuses on education to be of total to the part and not vice versa (e.g. learning the skills not included in the Whole language instruction), and learning to write must occur through fun activities functional meaning, and the focus on education priority, instead of keeping the roots. Moreover, it consenter on the learner who is the center of education rather than the curriculum and education should be based on individual interaction. It is clear that it may supports education in a social environment. Moreover, the teacher is the one who set the curriculum to be concepts are interrelated rather than dividing them up into multiple skills or subsets of content and evaluation focuses on the strengths of the learner. It seems that Whole Language Instruction is a tool to deal with the class and adjust and it may provides disadvantaged students to be able to overcome reading problems ( Pressely, 1994). However, according to Mather (1992 ) Whole Language Instruction team believe that retail could disrupt learning process, so they are opposed to direct teaching of encoding, because it split the language into separate clips and skills, which may lead to the language is not used, as well as a waste of time. The Whole Language Instruction may provide meaning to the texts and it is focusing on both reading and writing, as learn the rules of language may be done without the need to teach voice. It is clear that Educators and researchers stress fact that learning may be the best when there is enjoyable environment for learning and learner will be active participant in learning process as well as the teacher must take into account individual differences between children. These principles focus upon the way of Whole Language Instruction in learning to read, the child will read full text and then he begins to recognize words and letters with helping by teacher and the child will feel motivation when he is reading and that is the most important needs, which increases the capacity of the child with dyslexia to learn to read correctly (Fuhler,1993 ) Learner (2000 ) pointed out that there are basics of teaching reading difficulties by using method of Whole Language Instruction as following : Firstly : Reading is one of the elements of internal language which is very close to oral language and written language, so teachers who use this method confirm the language written and oral reading lead to the child will be improved , when he learn to read and there is a relationship between linguistic vulnerability in children and reading difficulties, children who have language problems or mobility are likely to develop problems in writing in the early stages. Secondly : The method of verbal language may be acquired by the natural use, according to the teachers who use Whole Language Instruction that children may learn to speak without the need for special training and this means that children will learn to read naturally through exposure to learn to read by focusing on language and books which related to fluency of language. Finally : Teachers who use the method of Whole Language Instruction avoid use of separate teaching which does not focus on the link between parts of the meaning of language, as well as the way of teaching that focuses on use of separate exercises, and they believe that books that divide natural language into small pieces and mysterious that could make teaching is difficult. In addition, Whole Language Instruction users think that learning of characters is normally by way of education , it is clear that learning of letters should not be separate, but it is normally acquired through reading. 4.2 Code- emphasis Instruction It is clear that we should understand the strategies of coding in Whole Language I Samsung: Economic Indicators Samsung: Economic Indicators Samsung: Economic Indicators Abstract This paper will explain the economic indicators of the global giant Samsung Corporation. The paper will explain the relevance to the company; provide a strategy of the way in which the company may respond to the indicators, establish goals to maximize revenues for the future and explain what economic indicators are. Economic indicators are sequence of statistics gathered together to exhibit economic tendency and support in predicting future trends (McConnell, Brue Flynn, 2012). The types of indicators that will be relayed in this paper include; Unemployment, Monthly retail sales, Durable goods, Gross Domestic Product, Consumer price index and US International transactions. Economic indicators Economic indicators are simply economic statistics that indicate how the country is doing and the potential forecast for the future. Statistics used include data from the unemployment rate, the inflation rate and the Gross Domestic Product (Moffatt, 2014). There are three attributes to economic indicators. Procyclic is the indicator that moves in the same direction of the economy. If the economy is good the indicator increase, but if the opposite is true than the indicators are decreasing. An example of a procyclic is the Gross Domestic Product. The countercyclical indicator goes in the opposite of the way the economy is going. An example is the unemployment rate. Last is the acyclic indicator which has no real relation to the economy of how it develops. An example would be how many touchdowns are scored in an NFL game before halftime in a given year. Also included in the attributes of economic indicators is frequency of data (an example is Dow Jones Index) which releases data every three months while unemployment is released monthly. The last attribute is the relation to the business cycle. Three Timing Types The three types of timing economic indicators are lagged, coincident and leading. Leading indicators change before changes occur within the economy. An example is the stock market. Trends of the stock market usually indicate the status of the economy (or the prediction of). Investors rely on leading economic indicators. Lagged indicators exhibit no change until after a few quarters have passed after the economy has changed. An example is unemployment rates. Coincident indicators move as the economy does. An example is the Gross Domestic Product (Moffatt, 2014). Unemployment The unemployment rate is the number of the labor force divided by the number of unemployed. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, unemployment rate includes not having a job, actively looking for work for the past four weeks. Even if you were a temporary worker and were laid off you will still be counted. If an individual is no longer seeking employment they are not counted (Amadeo, 2014). There was a decrease in the unemployment rate to 6.10 percent in the United States in the month of August 2014. In the United State the unemployment rate has reached a record high of 10.83 in November of 1982 and a record low of 2.50 in May of 1953. Between the years of 1948 to 2014 the medium rate of unemployment was 5.83. The unemployment relates as it is a lagging indicator and therefore it measures economic events after a recession has occurred. The Federal Reserve uses this data when it sets monetary policy (Amadeo, 2014). As of January 2014 Samsung Corporation has 11,909 employees (6,101 overseas). Currently Samsung has nearly 800 jobs posted in the United States and more overseas. This data is an indicator that the availability of these positions could potentially reduce the unemployment rate in the future. Samsung is rapidly increasing its innovations and continuing to provide consumer with what they are in need of. Samsung has staying power and therefore is a good investment in the future of the economy. Monthly retail sales Samsung uses monthly retail sales as an economic indicator that closely follows the significance of commodities as it relates to its timing. Monthly retail sales are known as a coincident economic indicator because it relates to the activity of the economy. Investors find this indicator valuable because it shows how the economy is moving. By using the monthly retail sales reports investors, shareholders and stakeholders can help forecast and make better decisions as to how the company is doing in relation to the economy. Samsung sales as of second quarter 2014 dropped from $7.58 billion (last year) to $6.1 billion. This data is a result of a decrease in Smartphone and tablet sales. Critics and Samsung executives view the next quarter as a â€Å"challenge† as Chinese manufacturers of the Huawei have increased their sales thereby causing a shift in the market share contributing to the decrease in sales (McCormick, 2014). After each report is published on sales this information i s used to help Samsung to shift its focus on what areas of the company need attention. The economic indicators are a response from the consumers as to what is in demand or what is failing. The monthly retails sales provide Samsung with great insightful information into the progression of it goods and products. Durable goods Goods that are not immediately consumed and gradually wear out during the period of use are called durable goods. Durable goods are goods that can be used for three or more years (McConnell, Brue, Flynn, 2012). In comparison non durable goods consists of clothing, food and items that are used in the three year time period. Investors and Samsung executives can use the statistics from durable goods to potentially forecast ad/or calculate future profits. Samsung is an innovator and is growing from each technological advance. The market it hold for appliance and television is ever growing. Samsung is one of the industry’s giant when it comes to televisions. Consumers are becoming more and more fascinated with size and type of televisions. As Samsung grows in its pursuit of becoming the number one in its industry, this will help keep the company on the competitive edge. Gross Domestic Product Gross domestic product is the rate of all finished goods and services produced within a country during a certain time period. The measurement for GDP is nominal and real and used as a business cycle. As the growth in GDP rises in output a decrease in output creates the business cycle. Real GDP considers price increases while providing accurate results of production increases. Forecast earning, sales and stock prices are real GDP and based on quarterly reviews of the most recent information provided. Samsung is 25% of South Korea’s GDP. As the situation of leadership is changing as a result of Lee Kunhee has been in the hospital with bad health conditions, his son Lee Jae Yong is reported to take over his role (Pesek, 2014). Succession of a new leader will definitely have economic indicators that will influence the future of Samsung. Consumer price index Consumer price index measures the amount of change in the fixed costs of precise services and products (McConnell, Brue, Flynn, 2012). Things such as electrical, sewer and water services and products that consumers receive are included in these fixed costs. The relationship between the consumer price index and inflation are close because they help predict or forecast information for the company and their investors. Inflation rates help determines the consumer price index. The rate of inflation also determines how services and products increase. Although inflation raises the income of its consumer’s does not. This is an important factor in how Samsung regards its pricing. As inflation increases so must the prices of Samsung products and services. Keeping or managing inflation rates, Samsung can continue to compete with fair prices and continue to provide the best consumer value. US International transactions A report that is produced by the Bureau of Economic Analysis providing international data on goods and cash flow is called U.S. International Transactions. This is a published quarterly report that displays an array of information. Data such as financial and capital account (through cash flows) as well as exports for the time period are included in the report. Samsung is the leading global company. Half of its employees are spread throughout the world. Samsung’s goal is to continue to build risk management systems and global operating systems internationally. Already established as a global giant, Samsung reaches out to world class partners to create new opportunities. Together Samsung wants to continue to grow and provide the best products and services to its valued customers. Conclusion Economic indicators are important to the economy of any country. The data retrieved from indicators help determine the direction a company or country is leading to. Samsung is a global giant that is mastering the use of economic indicators in its pursuit of its vision of 2020 to become number one in its industry. Over the past 75 years Samsung has attributed its success to its people and its products. Samsung will continue to manifest into a leader as the priorities of the corporation remain the same; understanding what the consumer wants and placing their employees in a place of important value. References Amadeo, K. (2014). Unemployment Rate. Retrieved from About News: http://useconomy.about.com/od/economicindicators/p/unemploy_rate.htm McConnell, C., Brue, S., Flynn, S. (2012). Economics, 19th Ed. New York: McGraw-Hill. McCormick, R. (2014, July 30). Samsung sales and profits down despite Galaxy 5S launchf . Retrieved from The Verge: http://www.theverge.com/2014/7/30/5953603/samsung-sales-and-profits-down-q2-2014 Moffatt, M. (2014). A Beginners Guide to economic indicators. What are economic indicators? Retrieved from About education: http://economics.about.com/cs/businesscycles/a/economic_ind.htm Pesek, W. (2014, June 24). Samsungs role in South Korea GDP is risky. Retrieved from Malaymail online: http://www.themalaymailonline.com/opinion/bloomberg/article/samsungs-outsized-role-in-korean-gdp-is-risky-william-pesek

Friday, October 25, 2019

Social Commentary in The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald :: free essay writer

The Great Gatsby:Â   Social Commentary On one level The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald comments on the careless gaiety and moral decadence of the period in which it was set. It contains innumerable references to the contemporary scene. The wild extravagance of Gatsby's parties, the shallowness and aimlessness of the guests and the hint of Gatsby's involvement in crime all identify the period and the American setting. But as a piece of social commentary The Great Gatsby also describes the failure of the American dream, from the point of view that American political ideals conflict with the actual social conditions that exist. For whereas American democracy is based on the idea of equality among people, the truth is that social discrimination still exists and the divisions among the classes cannot be overcome. Myrtle's attempt to break into the group to which the Buchanans belong is doomed to fail. Taking advantage of her vivacity, her lively nature, she seeks to escape from her own class. She enters into an affair wi th Tom and takes on his way of living. But she only becomes vulgar and corrupt like the rich. She scorns people from her own class and loses all sense of morality. And for all her social ambition, Myrtle never succeeds in her attempt to find a place for herself in Tom's class. When it comes to a crisis, the rich stand together against all outsiders. Myrtle's condition, of course, is a weaker reflection of Gatsby's more significant struggle. While Myrtle's desire springs from social ambition, Gatsby's is related more to his idealism, his faith in life's possibilities. Undoubtedly, his desire is also influenced by social considerations; Daisy, who is wealthy and beautiful, represents a way of life which is remote from Gatsby's and therefore more attractive because it is out of reach. However, social consciousness is not a basic cause. It merely directs and increases Gatsby's belief in life's possibilities. Like Myrtle, Gatsby struggles to fit himself into another social group, but his attempt is more urgent because his whole faith in life is involved in it. Failure, therefore, is more terrible for him. His whole career, his confidence in himself and in life is totally shattered when he fails to win Daisy. His death when it comes is almost insignificant, for, with the collapse of his dream, Gatsby is already spiritually dead. As social satire, The Great Gatsby is also a comment on moral decadence in modem American society.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Culture Difference in Business Negotiation

Globalisation, the expansion of intercontinental trade, technological advances and the increase in the number of companies dealing on the international stage have brought about a dramatic change in the frequency, context and means by which people from different cultural backgrounds interact, especially cross-cultural communication in international business. Global communications bring countries and cultures closer to each other every day even though they may be on separate continents. However, barriers to communicating still exist due to cultural differences as well as dialects. In the business world, cross-cultural barriers can be significant in conducting global commerce. International trade presents multi-level challenges dealing with cross-cultural communication. Language is the biggest problem and global companies recognize the need for employees who are fluent in several languages. Of course, in addition to language, religion, customs, methods of dealing with people also play a significant role in international negotiations. Once some link has the problem, which will lead to the breakdown of negotiations. Therefore, This requests negotiations both sides correctly utilize the negotiations skill, making the negotiations complete smoothly. 1. Definition Intercultural communication refers to the different cultural backgrounds of communication between individuals, that is, people from different cultural backgrounds of the interaction. In recent years, it causes most people's attention. In China, the language teachers to show great interest, reflecting the changes of the times and demands, has attracted people from the perspective of cross-cultural education of foreign language teaching in-depth thinking. 2. Case description Ma Ping works in a joint-venture company as an executive in China. His boss is an American named Steve. They are good friends Once, at a meeting with mostly Chinese participants including Ma Ping, Steve didn’t listen to much different ideas when asking for any suggestions on his new project. So he took it for granted that his new project would be quite satisfactory to everyone present at the meeting and decided to implement the plan. But to his great surprise and puzzlement, after the meeting, Ma Ping came to his office and told him that there were problems with the project, and the project might not work properly. This time, to Ma Ping’s surprise, Steve didn’t seem happy but even annoyed with this. Analysis: In China, if you disagree with your friend at the meeting, you can’t speak out in public. Because if you do that, your friend will lose his face. The best action is to talk with him in private . While in the western country, if you have a different idea about the project of your friend at the meeting, you must raise an objection instantly rather than in private later. I conclude that in business negotiations, cultural differences between the negotiating parties will often become an obstacle to the negotiations,and even lead to the breakdown of negotiations. Therefore, we should pay attention to some skills in the negotiations to avoid the breakdown of negotiations 3. Intercultural communication skills Business negotiation can be understood as a process in which two or more parties come together to discuss common and conflicting business interests in order to reach an agreement of mutual benefit . Negotiation can be considered a delicate business, made even more delicate by different cultural understandings. How can we avoid the subtle pitfalls and make deals go smoothly? There is a detail way to solve this ituation. 3. 1The preparation before the intercultural negotiation A good pre-preparation is a key note to have a successful negotiation. If we have a negotiation in hurry, we will know little about our partner and we can not get the most benefits during the intercultural negotiation. And of course, our partners will think that we did not pay much attention to this negotiation, so it can show our careless attitude about the business and our partner. Therefore, we will fail in the negotiation. So it is important to make a good preparation before we go into the intercultural negotiation, but how to make preparations before we begin the negotiation? Next there is some advice. First we must organize our team well, because the team is the oundation of our successful negotiation. We can keep our team as small as possible. But it does not mean what the less people our team has, the more effective work we can get. Some people who have specialized skills, communication ability, team spirit and gamesmanship must be contained in our team . 3. 2The bridge-building between the different cultures But just making those preparations a re not enough, we must know what will happen during the intercultural negotiation. Next this thesis will give us a detail explanation to the problems. Supposed there are two persons: Tom in the West and Marry in the Eastern country. They have the same likes and dislikes, and Tom recently spoke for days with Marry, his potential business partner and yet the barriers between them were never broached — and the deal didn’t get inked . The problem had to do with different conceptions of the negotiation process itself and misinterpretations of the other’s behavior. For Tom, negotiation is about pushing through a deal period. When he didn’t think their discussion was moving forward as quickly as he thought it should, his arguments became increasingly forceful. Because his opposite read this as disrespect, the negotiation essentially ended days before their talks did. Although globalizing communications and marketing have made the world smaller in many ways, deep differences between cultures remain. Despite similar tastes, Tom and Marry each approach negotiation in a way heavily conditioned by his national culture. Because they sat down at the table without understanding the other’s assumptions about the negotiation process, all they ended up with was an impasse. So, we must pay attention to the question that is how to build the bridges between the different cultures so that the degree of mistrust is diminished until it is non-existent. In order to prepare for our negotiations try the following: (1) Get to know the individuals that we will be personally dealing with. Making a one-to-one human connection is one of the best ways to overcome mistrust! (2) Background: checks into the company that we are doing business with. Get to know the company as much as possible. Have credit checks done on the company. Learn about their financial situation in any way possible. (3) Research the culture of the foreign company and sensitize ourselves to the possible differences that we may be confronted with. 4) Get the assistance of a company that is expert in dealing with such cultural differences that can give us some tips. 3. 3 Learn the other side’s culture It is very important to know the basic components of our counterparty’s culture. It’s a sign of respect and a way to build trust and credibility as well as advantage that can help us to choose the right strategies and tactics during the negotiation. Of cou rse, it’s impossible to learn another culture in detail when we learn at short notice that a foreign delegation is visiting in two weeks’ time. The best we can do is to try to identify principal influences that the foreign culture may have on making the deal. 3. 4 Don’t stereotype Making saaumptions can creat distrust and barriers that expose both your and the other side’s need, positions and goals. The way we view other people tends to be reserved and cautious. We usually expect people to take adventage of a situation, and during the negoations the other side probably thinks the same way, especially when there is a lack of trust between counterparts. In stead of generalizing, we should make an effort to treat everyone as individuals. Find the other side’s values and beliefs independently of values and beliefs characteristic of the culture or group being represented by your counterpart. 3. 5 Find ways to bridge the culture gap Apart from adopting the other side’s culture to adjust to the situation and environment, we can also try to persuade the other side to use elements of our own culture. In some situations it is also possible to use a combination of both cultures, for example, regarding joint venture business. When there is a diffculty in finding common ground, focusing on common professional cultures may be the initiation of business relations. 4. Conclusion International business negotiation is playing a more and more important role in our economic lives in modern society. Obviously, international business negotiations take place across national boundaries. This means that understanding the different cultural environments that exist among nations and considering cultural differences in all facets of business are crucial for negotiators in the operation of international business negotiation. International business negotiators are distinguished from each other not only by geographic location, language spoken, more importantly by the specific cultures in which they grow up. Cultural differences influence negotiation in many aspects, even before the face-to-face negotiation starts The understanding of negotiation in the western culture is alien to that of the eastern culture. Many Americans see negotiation as a good approach to resolve conflicts while Japanese or Chinese do not like it at all. The composition of negotiation team relies greatly on culture that defines the number and the selecting criteria of negotiators. Japanese or Chinese negotiation team is often large, usually led by an old person with high status. Whereas,American team tends to be small and its negotiators are chosen on the basis of competence at the issue under negotiation. Simultaneously, people from different cultures prefer to use different negotiating strategies and styles. Therefore selection of different strategies and tactics results in different outcomes in international business negotiations. Different selection of pragmatic strategies may produce different results in a business negotiation: a win-lose result, a win-win result or lose-lose result. In order to maintain a long-term cooperative business relationship between both negotiating parties concerned in a win-win business negotiation situation, the selection of strategies should be of crucial importance. Our nation is mentioning to establish harmonious society, if we want to be a successful negotiator, we should set up an atmosphere of harmony. I think the best result is a win-win result in international negotiation. So we will have many chances cooperate with our foreigner. Our Chinese people also can become the successful men.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Frankenrunner

Frankincense: Methods and Techniques: Structure & Narrative Form From Top Notes – Patterson & Strangers Epistolary Narrative Form â€Å"Frankincense† Is written In an epistolary narrative form that was popular at the time in which it was written. The original publication was presented in three volumes and this emphasized the Chinese box structure of the story within a story within a story. This structural device adds a great deal to its stark drama as well as ensuring greater reader engagement.The use of three narrators lends verisimilitude to an unlikely Tory since there is no one omniscient narrator. Our ideas are formulated by responding to multiple narrators and from being able to balance perceptions from one to the other. This method enables the author to maintain a certain objective distance between the text and the reader, allowing her audience to Judge and assess the moral worth of her protagonists. Flaws become evident but rather than the novelist casting asper sions on them; the characters condemn themselves In the reader's mind by their very actions. Multiple NarratorsThe novel is still able to Intrigue contemporary audiences because each of the three separate stories engage our sympathy with the narrator who presents them. This lends a personal voice in their fate. Each story fits neatly into the next. New contributions are made to our understanding which in turn colors our response to what is being recounted. The interlocutory bond between storyteller and listener Is maintained throughout even though the narrators alternate and often overlap. The reader is caught up in the storytellers magic, listening spellbound as different aspects of plot or character are revealed.First person narration offers one perspective but when this is put up against a deferent version of events, out Interpretations shift on response to questionable moral efficacy. Both Walton and Frankincense are linked by their voluntary alienation from society whereas the Creature has been forced to wander the world as an outcast. The narrators are depicted as flawed Individuals and on the absence of any one, single or reliable storyteller, the reader Is forced to assume the mantle of Judge. We, rather Han the novelist, evaluate the narrators and their versions of the truth that are presented to us.Well ? educated Walton seems the most reliable of the three and like Coleridge Ancient Mariner, is left alive to tell the tale that was in turn recounted to him. Shelley makes it clear however that these tales however have been filtered throughout his consciousness. Wallow's sister, Mrs. Seville becomes a surrogate reader, serving narrative function of receiving the letters her brother writes. Dualism Dualism links Victor and his mother which is not given a name, having no identity there than that of being Frankincense's doppelgà ¤nger shadow.Constructed from the dead body parts of others, he is a grotesque parody of life. â€Å"My form†, says the monster, â€Å"is a filthy type of yours, made horrid even in the very resemblance. † Both the scientist and his creation represent the duality of the human condition, the composite blend of good and evil; â€Å"Was man, indeed, at once so powerful, so virtuous and magnificent, yet so vicious and base? He appeared at once time a mere scion of the evil principle, and at another as all that can be conceived of noble and godlike.Frankincense describes the fiend as a monstrous or supernatural devil – â€Å"l was cursed by some devil, and carried about with me mum eternal hell†. Linked by many features such as a desire to learn and extract vengeance and scarred by the emotional suffering that results, they become mirrored reflections of each other. Their identities fuse as part of the Doppelgà ¤nger motif, forging an ambivalent relationship between good and bad. This helps reinforce the central thematic concern of monstrosity, challenging the reader to ponder the n ature of humanity and its evil twin.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Free Essays on Homers Portrayal Of Women

In reading Homer's The Odyssey, in order to answer the question of how Homer portrays the women in this epic, we must first determine exactly what the roles of women were and discover Homer's portrayal of them. By drawing conclusions from the text about the views of women held by the author, a bigger picture of the role of women in ancient Greek culture can be drawn. In The Odyssey we learn that women were placed on pedestals, as beautiful creatures, but were often subordinate to men, meaning they had little input and involvement in government, and often had to resort to deceit and trickery to get what they wanted. The glorification of the appearances of women is well illustrated by the way that Athena speaks of the esteem the people hold for Arete, when speaking to Odysseus in Phaeacia. "No lady in the world, no other mistress if a man's household, is honored as our mistress is, and loved, by her own children, by Alcinous, and by the people. When she walks the town murmur and gaze, as though she were a goddess. No grace or wisdom fails in her; indeed just men in quarrels come to her for equity" (Homer p.274). They think this highly of her, and yet, she is a subordinate of Alcinous. Arete is a very powerful woman. She is as powerful as the king, yet he gives orders to Arete, calling her "Lady" (Homer p.292), but commanding her to bring things to make ready for the departure of Odysseus. Like Arete, who is said to look like a god, many other beautiful and high-born women are compared to the gods. " Penelope the Wise, tall in her beauty as Artemis or pale-gold Aphrodite, appeared from her high chamber and came down to throw her arms around her son" (Homer p.318).This adds to the glorification of women in The Odyssey. The beautiful Nausicaa is also hailed as a goddess. "Daughter of great Alkinoos, Nausicaa, may Zeus the lord of thunder, Hera's consort; grant me daybreak again in my own country! But there and all my days until I die may... Free Essays on Homer's Portrayal Of Women Free Essays on Homer's Portrayal Of Women In reading Homer's The Odyssey, in order to answer the question of how Homer portrays the women in this epic, we must first determine exactly what the roles of women were and discover Homer's portrayal of them. By drawing conclusions from the text about the views of women held by the author, a bigger picture of the role of women in ancient Greek culture can be drawn. In The Odyssey we learn that women were placed on pedestals, as beautiful creatures, but were often subordinate to men, meaning they had little input and involvement in government, and often had to resort to deceit and trickery to get what they wanted. The glorification of the appearances of women is well illustrated by the way that Athena speaks of the esteem the people hold for Arete, when speaking to Odysseus in Phaeacia. "No lady in the world, no other mistress if a man's household, is honored as our mistress is, and loved, by her own children, by Alcinous, and by the people. When she walks the town murmur and gaze, as though she were a goddess. No grace or wisdom fails in her; indeed just men in quarrels come to her for equity" (Homer p.274). They think this highly of her, and yet, she is a subordinate of Alcinous. Arete is a very powerful woman. She is as powerful as the king, yet he gives orders to Arete, calling her "Lady" (Homer p.292), but commanding her to bring things to make ready for the departure of Odysseus. Like Arete, who is said to look like a god, many other beautiful and high-born women are compared to the gods. " Penelope the Wise, tall in her beauty as Artemis or pale-gold Aphrodite, appeared from her high chamber and came down to throw her arms around her son" (Homer p.318).This adds to the glorification of women in The Odyssey. The beautiful Nausicaa is also hailed as a goddess. "Daughter of great Alkinoos, Nausicaa, may Zeus the lord of thunder, Hera's consort; grant me daybreak again in my own country! But there and all my days until I die may...

Monday, October 21, 2019

Origins and Schools of Abstract Art

Origins and Schools of Abstract Art Abstract art (sometimes called nonobjective art) is a painting or sculpture  that does not depict a person, place, or thing in the natural world. With abstract art, the subject of the work is what you see: color, shapes, brushstrokes, size, scale, and, in some cases, the process itself, as in  action painting.   Abstract artists strive to be non-objective and non-representational, allowing the viewer to interpret each artworks meaning in their own way. Thus, abstract art is not an exaggerated or distorted view of the world such as we see in the Cubist paintings of Paul Cà ©zanne  and  Pablo Picasso, for they present a type of conceptual realism. Instead, form and color become the focus and the subject of the piece. While some people may argue that abstract art does not require the technical skills of representational art, others would beg to differ. It has, indeed, become one of the major debates in modern art. Of all the arts,  abstract painting  is the most difficult. It demands that you know how to draw well, that you have a heightened sensitivity for composition and for colors, and that you be a true poet. This last is essential.  Ã¢â‚¬â€œWassily Kandinsky. The Origins of Abstract Art Art historians typically identify the early 20th century as an important historical moment in the history of  abstract art. During this time, artists worked to create what they defined  as pure art: creative works that were not grounded in visual perceptions, but in the imagination of the artist. Influential works from this time period include Picture with a Circle (1911) by the Russian artist  Wassily Kandinsky  and Francis Picabias Caoutchouc  (1909). The roots of abstract art, however, can be traced back much further. Earlier artistic movements such as the 19th centurys  Impressionism and Expressionism were experimenting with the idea that painting can capture emotion and subjectivity. It need not simply focus on seemingly objective visual perceptions. Going back even further, many ancient rock paintings, textile patterns, and pottery designs captured a symbolic reality rather than attempting to present objects as we see them. Early Influential Abstract Artists Kandinsky (1866–1944) is often noted as one of the most influential abstract artists. A view of how his style developed over the years  is a fascinating look at the movement as he progressed from  representational to pure abstract art. He was also adept at explaining how an abstract artist may use color to give a seemingly meaningless work purpose. Kandinsky believed that colors provoke emotions. Red was lively and confident; green was peaceful with inner strength; blue was deep and supernatural; yellow could be warm, exciting, disturbing or totally bonkers; and white seemed silent but full of possibilities. He also assigned instrument tones to go with each color. Red sounded like a trumpet; green sounded like a middle-position violin; light blue sounded like a flute; dark blue sounded like a cello, yellow sounded like a fanfare of trumpets; white sounded like the pause in a harmonious melody. These analogies to sounds came from Kandinskys appreciation for music, especially the works of the contemporary Viennese composer Arnold Schoenberg (1874–1951). Kandinskys titles often refer to the colors in the composition or to music, for example, Improvisation 28 and Composition II.   The French artist Robert Delaunay (1885–1941) belonged to Kandinskys Blue Rider (Die Blaue Reiter) group. With his wife, Russian-born Sonia Delaunay-Turk (1885–1979), they both gravitated toward abstraction in their own movement, Orphism or Orphic Cubism. Examples of Abstract Art and Artists Today, abstract art is often an umbrella term that encompasses a wide range of styles and art movements. Included among these are  nonrepresentational art, nonobjective art, abstract expressionism, art informel  (a form of gestural art), and even some op art (optical art, referring to art that makes use of optical illusions). Abstract art may be gestural, geometric, fluid, or figurative (implying things that are not visual such as emotion, sound, or spirituality). While we tend to associate abstract art with painting and sculpture, it can apply to any visual medium, including  assemblage  and photography. Yet, it is the painters that get the most attention in this movement. There are many notable artists who represent the various approaches one may take to abstract art and they have had considerable influence on modern art. Carlo Carr  (1881–1966) was an Italian painter best known for his work in Futurism, a form of abstract art which emphasized the energy and fast-changing technology of the early 20th century. Over his career, he worked in Cubism as well and many of his paintings were abstractions of reality. However, his manifesto, Painting of Sounds, Noises and Smells  (1913) influenced many abstract artists. It explains his fascination with synaesthesia, a sensory crossover in which, for example, one smells a color, which is at the heart of many abstract artworks.Umberto Boccioni (1882–1916) was another Italian Futurist who focused on geometric forms and was heavily influenced by Cubism. His work often depicts physical motion as is seen in  States of Mind (1911). This series of three paintings capture the motion and emotion of a train station rather than the physical depiction of passengers and trains.Kazimir Malevich (1878–1935) was a Russian painter whom many describe as a pioneer of geometric abstract art. One of his best-known works is  Black Square (1915). It is simplistic but absolutely fascinating to art historians because, as an analysis from the Tate mentions, It is the first time someone made a painting that wasnt of something.   Jackson Pollock (1912–1956), an American painter, is often given as the ideal representation of Abstract Expressionism, or action painting. His work is more than drips and splashes of paint on canvas, but fully gestural and rhythmic and often employed very non-traditional techniques. For instance, Full Fathom Five  (1947)  is an oil on canvas created, in part, with tacks, coins, cigarettes, and much more. Some of his work, such as There Were Seven in Eight (1945) are huge, stretching over eight feet in width.Mark Rothko (1903–1970) took the geometric abstracts of Malevich to a new level of modernism with color-field painting. This American painter rose in the 1940s and simplified color into a subject all on its own, redefining abstract art for the next generation. His paintings, such as  Four Darks in Red  (1958) and Orange, Red, and Yellow (1961), are as notable for their style as they are for their large size.

Sunday, October 20, 2019

Alcoholic Authors Essay Example for Free

Alcoholic Authors Essay Essay Topic: American literature , Alcoholism The prominence of alcoholism in American literature, at least in the first half of the twentieth century, and the relationship between great authors and alcoholism has become somewhat of a literary cliche. Icons such as Ernest Hemingway, William Faulkner, Tennessee Williams, and Jack Kerouac are as famous for their work as they are infamous for their drinking habits. These authors have created a legend out of themselves just from their notorious habits of drinking. Of the seven native-born Americans awarded the Nobel Prize in literature, five were alcoholics. The list of other twentieth-century American writers also affected with alcoholism is very long. I researched these authors’ lives to find out how they all were infected with the same disease, alcoholism. Some said that drinking boosted their creative abilities, while others thought of it more of an escape from the confines of their own imagination, to which they were bound for all hours of the day. Drinking does fit the loner lifestyle that many of these authors had. It was viewed as a cure for writers block, an escape from their own minds, and most importantly, as a tool to cure the emotional hardships that they endured. It is not a coincidence that the greatest writers and artists also had very troubled childhoods and adult lives. Look at Edgar Allan Poe and Vincent Van Gogh; both were both severely troubled emotionally and depressed, and yet they still produced artistic and literary genius. So what is this connection between alcoholism and the great authors of the early 19th century? I will take an in-depth look at a few of the most influential alcoholic authors, such as Ernest Hemingway, William Faulkner, Edgar Allan Poe, and Tennessee Williams. I will look at factors that may have led them to their alcoholic habits, such as their childhood, troubled lives, or depression. From there, I will then look at how alcohol affected their works, positively or negatively. And as we all know, alcoholism was also double-edged sword that led to the destruction of their careers, and ultimately to their deaths. â€Å"I have absolutely no pleasure in the stimulants in which I sometimes so madly indulge. It has not been in the pursuit of pleasure that I have periled life and reputation and reason. It has been the desperate attempt to escape from torturing memories, from a sense of insupportable loneliness and a dread of some strange impending doom. † This quote by Edgar Allan Poe perfectly depicts why many of these great authors fell back into the grasp of alcoholism. Many were troubled spirits who had tough lives, and used alcohol as an escape from their woes. Poe’s depression was caused by his alcoholic father, the death of both of his mothers, the death of his loving wife, the separations of his siblings, and an abusive foster father. No doubt, these losses and hardships sculpted Poe into who he was as a person and author. He relied heavily on alcohol to ease his pain. Another notable case of hardships and emotional struggle that led to alcoholism was Tennessee Williams. As a child he was exposed to a very problematic family. His hard-drinking father favored his brother, as Williams was sensitive and seemed to be homosexual at a very young age. He was closest to his sister Rose, who was diagnosed with schizophrenia and institutionalized. Later on, he had troubles dealing with his sexuality, which led to heavy drug and alcohol abuse. He married Frank Merlo, whom provided balance to his bouts of rage and alcoholic abuse. Williams sunk into even deeper depression after Merlo left him, because of his alcoholism. Williams won the Pullitzer Prize for Drama after writing, A Streetcar Named Desire in 1948. He wrote this largely based off of events from his own life, most vividly portraying his alcoholic habits through Stanley. Another example of a great author whose troubled life had led him to become an alcoholic is Ernest Hemingway. Like Williams, he was also an award-winning author who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1954. During his final years, Hemingway’s behavior was similar to his father’s before he himself committed suicide. Hemingway was diagnosed with the genetic disease Hemochromatosis, which causes mental and physical deterioration. His brother and sister also committed suicide as well. In addition to Hemingway’s mental illnesses, he was an alcoholic for most of his life. After his death, in the writing, â€Å"Ernest Hemingway: A Psychological Autopsy of a Suicide†, Christopher Martin talks about the possible causes of Hemingway’s suicide. He discovers after careful reading of Hemingway’s works, that they reveal the possibility of conditions such as, bipolar disorder, alcoholic dependence, traumatic brain injury, and narcissistic personality traits. Hemingway was obviously troubled mentally and emotionally, and relied heavily on alcohol. Hemingway is one of the most well known alcoholic authors to this day. It was a common trait amongst many of the alcoholic authors to have emotional hardships and struggles. There is no doubt that these authors’ works were affected strongly by their addiction to drinking. As discussed previously, some stated that it boosted creativity, immediately cured writer’s block, and even relaxed them from the pressure of writing. Dr. Donald Goodwin, the author of â€Å"Alcohol and the Writer,† performed research on the correlation between authors and alcoholism. He concluded that writing in itself does not encourage alcoholism. Instead, he suggests that creativity is inspired by insanity because, â€Å"creative writing requires a rich fantasy life. † Alcohol promotes this same fantasy life as it skews one’s perceptions. Goodwin concludes that writing and alcoholism are products of the same lifestyle, rather than writing as a profession encouraging alcoholism. â€Å"Writing involves fantasy; alcohol promotes fantasy. Writing requires self-confidence; alcohol bolsters confidence. Writing is lonely work; alcohol assuages loneliness. Writing demands intense concentration; alcohol relaxes. † For example, William Faulkner, from the very beginning of his career, drank while he wrote. He claimed, â€Å"I usually write at night. I always keep my whiskey within reach. † Faulkner was also a Nobel Prize winner for his novels and short stories. Hemingway found whiskey as a sort of relief from his day to day routines, almost medicinal. Hemingway once stated, â€Å"When you work hard all day with your head and know you must work again the next day what else can change your ideas and make them run on a different plane like whisky? † This sort of mindset was one similar amongst many other great authors alike. In Goodwins book, he has a chapter titled, â€Å"The Loner Theory. † Alcoholism is basically a disease of individualism. People who are affected are those who, from early childhood, have a strong sense of being psychologically alone and on their own in the world. These people feel that they can get emotional release from drinking. We can see this individualistic character in many great authors. Goodwin goes on to compare writing and being drunk. He claims, â€Å"Writing and alcohol both produce trancelike states. A gift for creative writing may involve an innate ability to enter trancelike states. Being a loner, may facilitate trancelike states when it is time to write, and encourage drinking to overcome the shyness and ? isolation when it is time to relax. † This reasoning and logic is clearly evident in many of the author’s lifestyles. As much as these tendencies helped many of them produce creative work, it also led to many of their careers’ demise and eventually, death. The infamous drinking habits of Hemingway, Poe, Faulkner, and the like, all eventually led to their death or career demise. Many of these alcoholic authors were on a slow decline creatively. Many thought that their alcoholism deadened their creative thought process and rather turned them into more drab and emotional writers. Faulkner’s prose was slowed down by his sclerosis, while Hemingway’s style was drowned in emotions. Hemingway ridiculed his friend Fitzgerald when he went public in Esquire, talking about his downfall publicly. Hemingway was disgusted, and invited him to cast his, â€Å"balls into the sea—if you have any balls left†. Many authors attempted to get sober but found they could not write without alcohol. Many would just have one big hit and then decline from there, fighting sobriety and the ability to write without alcohol. Hemingway struggled to find happiness later on in life and eventually committed suicide. Faulkner died of a heart attack that was attributed to his heavy alcohol abuse. Edgar Allan Poe’s death was largely due to alcoholism. It is still a bit of a mystery as to how he died, but according to newspaper articles at the time it was due to cerebral inflammation, which is commonly linked with alcoholism. Many of these great authors were known for their great works as well as their drinking habits. Sadly, alcoholism led to many of their declining health in later ages. Their creative spark was slowly dulled over time by drinking, and many lived unhappy lives. There is an irrefutable link between many authors and alcoholism. Many of them happened to live in the same time frame, and were legends amongst the population largely in part to their drinking habits. Their alcoholic tendencies are all largely due to their loner lifestyles that they all shared. No doubt, they had great artistic minds. Many of them were award-winning authors who are icons American literature. However, their drinking habits are just as famous as was their work. Unfortunately, these habits eventually led many of them to their downfall. Many took their own lives, drank until they passed, or died because of other health complications due to alcoholism. Drinking was a cure for writers block, an escape from their own minds, and also a tool to cure their emotional downfalls that their troubled lives had brought upon them. It is not a coincidence that the greatest writers and artists also had very troubled childhoods and even adult lives. There is a direct connection between the tendencies of â€Å"loners† to be dependant on alcohol, and the tendencies of many authors to be loners. In conclusion, many authors had troubled lives and childhoods that led them to become emotionally scarred. This led to alcoholic habits. Next, many of them enjoyed working and writing while intoxicated. It suited their personalities. Alcoholism is an individualistic disease, and writing is typically an individual art form. Just as these authors found comfort in drinking, many of them drank their lives into the gutter; quite literally in Poe’s case. The same thing that they found comfort in, used as a tool for their writing, led them to demise. Their mental and physical health deteriorated, and ultimately many of them died unhappy. However, these authors were legends in literature. Hemingway, Faulkner, Poe, Fitzgerald, and Williams to name a few, all of these authors graced us with their genius, although some of them paid the price of their genius with mental and physical deterioration due to a life-long love affair with alcohol. Works Cited Dardis, Tom. (1989). The Thirsty Muse: Alcohol and the American Writer. Fields. Goodwin, Donald W. (1988). Alcohol and the Writer. Andrews McMeel Publishing Padgett, John B. (2006, August 17). William Faulkner: Frequently Asked Questions.

Friday, October 18, 2019

Reflection for a year living on the brink Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Reflection for a year living on the brink - Essay Example He is convinced that the current regime has failed to address escalating tax rates, the failure of the current Obama regime to revive the economy through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The article is interesting because it addresses the ailing economic situation in United States and the world at large. The author investigates the possible causes of the economic stability such as entrusting financial duties to central banks and previous systems that capitalized on labor protection at the expense of job creation. Though the failing economic failure can be solved through a change in regime, countries should address the economic anxiety with practical financial policies. A financial system that empowers all taxpayers is one of the potential ways of improving the current economic situation. An able leader combined practical financial or economic policies can revive the economy of United States and the foreign systems that depend on it. However, the crises should not be addressed in general but the measures should be customized for each economy. Henninger reveals that Chancellor Gerhard Schroder reformed German labor market successfully in

How has the New Public Management transformed the organisation and Essay

How has the New Public Management transformed the organisation and governance of public services, and to what extend do contemporary reforms illustrate a post-New Public Management era - Essay Example Companies in the private sector also deemed to perform in the most efficient manner because of the presence of high level of competition and pressure of attaining long-term sustainability (Laegreid & Christensen, 2013). It will not be ambiguous to state that companies in the contemporary context largely intend to assure customer satisfaction through their respective operations so that their business can be able to assure sustainable operations (Gonzalez-Perez & Liam Leonard, 2013; Fox, 2006; EU, 2009). However, these aspects or approaches of companies are not quite visible in the operations of the public sector companies. Notably, it is often believe that public sector is less effective in operations in comparison with the private sector. This is largely because of the aspect that companies in the public sector are less effective in designing their respective management policies along with proper adoption of advanced business practices (Flynn, 2012; EU, n.d.). This aspect further effects the efficacy of the public companies in an unfavourable manner altogether. In order to deal with this particular scenario, concerned authorities have developed the concept of New Public Management (NPM), which is expected to revive the public sector altogether towards a favourable direction (Lane, 2000). Contextually, this particular essay will analyse the concept of NPM in a comprehensive manner. The essay will also assess the impact of the NPM concept on the organisations and the governance of p ublic sector companies. The essay will be further concluded with the evaluation of the contemporary reform after the emergence of the NPM era. With the changing course of the modern day business, the approach of conducting business by companies also seems to be transforming in a rapid manner. In this similar context, the changes or the reforms in the public management practices

History Of Quality Management As It Relates To The US Air Force Research Paper

History Of Quality Management As It Relates To The US Air Force - Research Paper Example TQM is an approach that can enhance the competitiveness, effectiveness and flexibility of a whole organization that requires planning, organizing and understanding each activity (O’Neill & Sohal, 1999). TQM has been applied to all industries with the focus on quality improvement or achieving overall customer satisfaction. TQM in the US Air Force has its own significance and has been in practice for several decades. As the Federal government realized the need for a smaller military force due to decreasing military threat from the former Soviet Union, the financial support to the military was reduced (Sanchez, 1997). This necessitated the reduction in the size of personnel from each service as well as eliminating many weapon systems. With the reduced number of airmen, seamen and soldiers the need for efficiency became paramount (Moser & Bailey, 1997). TQM training was instituted in all branches of the armed forces and extended to the US defense industries as well. This paper res earches how the application and utility of TQM has evolved and whether it has been able to enhance efficiency in the US Air Force.TQM has further been defined as a process of continuous improvement (Gonsalves, 2002) where continued effort is exerted by everyone in the organization to understand, meet and exceed customer expectations through quality enhancement (Hoang, 2009) where quality includes characteristics such as performance, features, durability, aesthetics and service quality (Lian, 2001). Ho, Duffy and Shih (1999) emphasize that continuous improvement, customer focus, and teamwork form the core of TQM philosophy. TQM is a holistic concept wherein all members of the organization participate in planning and implementing continuous quality improvement (Sanchez, 1997). Deming stated that to achieve success through TQM the managers must whole-heartedly believe in the philosophy and create an environment for the process to function (D’Ron, 1998). Deming also offered sugge stions for the managers to change their traditional mindset which included leadership, training, breaking down the barriers, not focusing on price alone, eliminating quotas and most importantly they should adopt the TQM principles. The Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award (MBNQA) was established by Congress in 1987 to stimulate competition in the US businesses. This is a prestigious award for excellence and quality achievement in the United States. This award was meant to recognize organizations that have outstanding processes and practices, and that focus on continuous improvement and where the practice is measureable. The MBNQA is basically a business review, a formal process to review how the business operates. Its implementation requires visionary leadership, social responsibility, focus on future, focus on results, managing for innovation and valuing employees and other stakeholders (Baldridge Award, 2005). The award is given to organizations that demonstrate exemplary achie vements across seven dimensions - leadership, strategic planning, customer and market focus, measurement, analysis and knowledge management, human resources focus, process management, and business results.

Thursday, October 17, 2019

Tuition Rates Increasing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Tuition Rates Increasing - Essay Example For instance, as the demand for college education increases throughout society, college tuition rates have risen exponentially. As a function of seeking to address this particular issue and fine, causes, the following analysis will engage in a brief discussion and consideration of what these factors might indicate. Firstly, it must be understood, as has been represented briefly within the introduction, the increase in demand as cause tuition rates to skyrocket. As tens of thousands of more individuals graduate high school with aspirations and indications to engage with college, it is not only necessary for college to accept these individuals, it is also necessary for them to provide space and accommodations for their education. These states and accommodations conceptions that must be made concern hiring new professors, increasing classroom size, expanding dormitories and providing additional living accommodations, increasing overall number of staff, and upgrading a and all facilities that might be exhibited on the college campus in order to accommodate is lots of new students. Ultimately, the influx of students is beneficial in the long run in terms of business and profitability for the universe. However, a preliminary understanding of business engages the individual with the understanding tha t the upfront costs that these universities and colleges requires them to raise tuition prices exorbitantly as a means of front the bill that this influx of students has created for them. However, it must not only be understood that the to raise tuition is based upon real and measurable factors. Ultimately, study after study has indicated that the rising college tuition is so dramatic that it does not track alongside inflation or changes within the remainder of the economy. Moreover, scholars have also indicated that even if one considers the upgrade

What are the pros and cons of applying sterotypes to identify Essay

What are the pros and cons of applying sterotypes to identify potential criminals and do the costs outweigh the benefits, or vice versa - Essay Example Many theories have been put forward to explain the occurrence of criminal acts. Some of these theories include conflict theory, structural-functional theory, symbolic interactions and labeling theory.Criminal behavior is an act that violates the norms of a society according to Sociologists-Criminal act can also be an act that violates the laws of the land in a formal setting according to oxford dictionary of law. Criminology is a violation of socially constituted laws, norms or values. In this paper, I will analyze criminal behavior based on stereotypes as have been put forward by sociological theorists. I will discuss the pros and cons of applying stereotypes to identify the potential criminal. Lombroso had put forward a theory of crime and deviant. Lombroso suggested ways in which society can identify a criminal based on genetic, biological and psychological characteristics. Lombroso had suggested some genetically and biological characteristics which identify a criminal for example, a person with six fingers left-handed eyebrows that meet at the bottom, squinted eye to be criminals (Ashmore and Longo, 22;Hamilton,191) .Based on Lombroso theory it is possible for police or community to victimize individuals based on the characteristics given by Lombroso yet they are innocent. This has been so in the U.S where African Americans are often perceived as criminals as seen in the case that appeared in the Kentucky Supreme Court in 2002. In the court, the police argued that the man, black, must be the one who had sold cocaine to state's informant since he sounded black. The stereotype that it's African Americans who engage in crime has led to increase of crime causes. The young Af rican Americans argue that they are perceived as criminals even when they are innocent (Randall, 88; Irving 63). The occurrence has led to many young African Americans who are potential criminals to engage in crime (Schissel, 71; Thornberry, 14; Duffy and Scotts, 29). Empirical studies have been done by sociologists to verify the truth of the theory and it has been found that there are individuals who possess the given characteristics yet they are morally upright. Media has played a role in strengthening certain stereotypes by highlighting crimes committed by certain group of people and emphasize how police die in line of duty (Gray, Fishman and Gruyter, 21 ;Oliver, 88 ;Weitzer, 11). Lombroso theory of description of criminals formed the basis of development of labeling theory. The theory of labeling focuses on the linguistic tendency of individuals to act in accordance to how society has described them based on norms and stereotype. Howard Becker has put forward ways in which individuals adhere to the labeling and become delinquent or criminals. For example, when a teenage is told by everyone that he resemble a thug; the particular teenager can even begin by picking other people's items like books with the notion "after all everyone perceives me as a thief". Psychologically, the teenager is oriented to criminal behaviors due to labeling and this is an adverse effect on society. When a potential criminal is described or labeled a criminal according to Becker, it becomes very hard to reform the individual through imprisonment and rehabilitation facilities since the individual already perceives that the society already perceive him as criminal so whether he/she changes, whenever a criminal act occurs the society will suspect him first. An empirical study on criminal maniacs or prison maniacs has given data on the theory which verify the theory (Presdee, 44). However, there has been stereotype that women are harmless and this has led to increase in crime since crime happen unnoticed (Daly and Maher, 54)

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

Plant Research Project Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Plant Project - Research Paper Example A brief consideration of theoretical information about the mentioned plant will be beneficial for better perception of the results of the present study. Andrographis, or Andrographis paniculata, belongs to the family Acanthaceae. (Hobbs, Gardner, 2013, 17). The motherland to the plant is the Tropical Asia, particularly the Indian Subcontinent with its areas of India and Sri Lanka. (GRIN, 2005). Andrographis hs been naturalized to several geographic locations, it is widely cultivated and can be seen today in such regions as Africa (Mauritius), Temperate and Tropical Asia (China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia), Southern America (the Caribbean region), Central America, Australia. (GRIN, 2005). â€Å"The plant is erect and widely branching, reaching 2 to 3 feet tall, with long, green, square stems; small, lance-shaped leaves; and tiny, flecked, white to pale pink flowers in long, slim clusters.† (Hobbs, Gardner, 2013, 17). Andrographis is primarily used for the medical (medicines making) and treatment purposes: it is possible to find it at the chemists’ as tablets and capsules. (Hobbs, Gardner, 2013, 17). This plant possesses such beneficial from the medical point of view features as immunity boosting and antiviral effect. (Hobbs, Gardner, 2013, 17). Traditional form of this plant application has been the form of decoction or tea, which could be accompanied by herbs possessing sweet taste (stevia or licorice), because andrographis is very bitter. (Hobbs, Gardner, 2013, 18). The mentioned medicine shall be consumed before the meals due to its effect of the digestion enhancing. The point of concern here is that it is necessary to start with a dose of tea which is weak, and then reach stronger doses. (Hobbs, Gardner, 2013, 18). Andrographis is capable of treatment of a wide range of ailment conditions and diseases of a human body. It can be applied for preventing of flu and cold, and it