Contemporary American Television Drama Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Contemporary American Television Drama - Essay Example 215). For instance, the CSI Miami production team show the season three episode â€Å"Lost  Son† under unfavorable weather (SPEIER, M., 2002, p. 33). However, photography heads managed to integrate rain in the episode’s narration and embarked on new measures to capture as much natural light as possible (Gray and Lotz, 2011, p. 31). The set design of CSI Miami organizes and personifies space to differentiate between scenes shot inside artificial set designs and those shot outdoors (Campaiola, 2008, p. 2). For instance, the â€Å"Lost  Son† shows a precinct within a stunning glass building where CSI investigators collect scientific proof and brainstorm to solve a crime. Here, every specialist is allotted his or her own special, calculated space for work (Fiske, 2010, p. 87). For instance, a coroner gets the freezing room because he deals with mostly dead organic matter that needs preservation, the detective gets a computer area or desk, and the DNA expert gets a lab (OWEN, 2003). Such set designs weave into the show’s narration almost perfectly since they organize character roles and facilitate their effectiveness (MCNUTT, 2011, p. 60). The outdoors set design for the same episode entails Miami city, a metropolitan that harbors many criminals and potential suspects (GELINEAU, K., 2005). Campaiola, JG 2008, â€Å"Why French Television Drama Lags Behind: A Multiperspectival Approach,† Paper presented at the annual meeting of the International Communication Association, TBA, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Online . 2014-11- 10

Responding to Dark Waters Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Responding to Dark Waters - Essay Example Just as the title suggests, the essay presents the dark side of civilization in Bogalusa as a representative of situations in the entire globe. This response paper will analyze the article critically and unravel these dark sides. The author chose an appropriate title for this piece of work. No other title would efficiently convey the themes of the essay in only two words. The author succeeds in revealing all types of poisoning in Bogalusa that made all waters dark. Bogalusa has both white and black residents who do not trust each other (Komunyakaa 108). The whites have gained dominance over the men of color. The men of color in this region have limited opportunities in every sector (99). The author offers much imagery that describes the situation of the men of color in this region. The reader cannot help but empathize with the men of color living in Bogalusa. The author does not exaggerate things because the American history in the years mentioned tell it all. Men of color have been struggling to attain equality and inclusion. The essay elaborates all forms of environmental pollution evident in Bogalusa. There are all forms of pollution in the city. There are numerous air explosions, water pollutions, and deforestation. Rivers and ponds in the region have toxins from continuous pollution. There are no interventions to curb environmental degradation. The numerous descriptions and poems help the reader understand the real situation of environmental degradation in Bogalusa. The author paints a realistic concept in the mind of the reader through the vivid illustrations, poems reflecting the nature and references to his opinion. The author expresses his feelings about the condition. It is obvious that he sees horror in Bogalusa. He wishes everything were reversible to return nature into the original state. The poem ‘Fog Galleon’ depicts the real situation of things in Bogalusa (106). Through the author’s image, the reader gets to understand the s ituation. In addition, the author illustrates the effects of environmental degradation to man. He mentions the development of cancer, respiratory diseases, and death. By highlighting these effects, he drives the reader to understand the fact he mentions at the end of the essay that as long as humans do not conserve the environment, they will definitely face negative consequences. Komunyakaa sums it up by saying that ‘hurting nature wounds human beings’ (111). This fact receives a lot of support from the essay. All negative effects towards the environment eventually affect the welfare of man either directly or indirectly. The changing global climates in the recent past serve as further support to the author’s allegation. Humans have brought doom to themselves through activities that are destructive to nature. The reader can clearly understand what the author implies when he says that man and nature exist in connection. Komunyakaa exposes an additional reality of m atters. Governments are reluctant to enact laws that act as guidelines to environmental protection. Louisiana is a clear example of what majority of government sectors are doing. It was becoming obvious that the prevailing environmental conditions needed intervention. However, the officials were doing nothing about it. Through this, the author introduces a new idea about racism trends in American states. States inhabited by majority blacks were likely to be home to multiple companies releasing numerous toxic

Person Values To The Work Of Social Care Social Work Essay

Person Values To The Work Of Social Care Social Work Essay According to Ewles and Simnett and Edelman Mandle , values and principles mean powerful drivers of how we think and behave. These are often a significant element of culture, where they form a part of the shared rule set of a group. Every peoples personal values and principles influence their work contribution significantly in health and social care management. There are different types of values like instrumental values, personal values, political values, social values, economic values, religious values etc. Vilkka (1997) and Edelman Mandle (2005) have stated that instrumental values mean being honest, courage, polite, gentle, well-behaved etc. In addition, these values mean to have a good moral. It has a great impact of work contribution. For example, in a care home employees may need to keep the service users belongings which are valuable. In this case, they have to be honest. Otherwise, dishonest people may take those materials and flee away. So instrumental values influence work contribution. Posner (n.d.) has cited that personal value means dignity, creativity, courage, attitude of care, independence, friendliness etc. It can influence work contribution. For example, a person with good creativity skills can serve the service users in a better way. In addition, if they become friendly and positive in caring, then the service users or the clients will be happier. The ethnicity of people, tradition, regional ties, linguistic ties, national ties etc. are included in cultural values. For example, if anyone is from white ethnic background, then they will be more punctual where Asian ethnic people are less sincere. Another thing can be, people who are from the Middle East are very honest. Social values may include equality, justice, liberty, freedom and national pride. These are the values that put the rights of wider groups of people first. As it promotes equality, justice, freedom and liberty then it can impact on work contributions significantly. For example, in a care home there may have employee and service users from different ethnic and national background. Their culture can be different from each other. So, following equality law, justice, national pride etc. improve workplace contribution. According to Connor et al (2006), work values mean autonomy, dedication, teamwork, competitiveness, trustworthiness, reliability, professionalism, ethics etc. Autonomy means feeling relaxed and confident. It is universal truth that if anyone fell relaxed, ambition, and confident then she or he can play a very good role in work. Another thing is teamwork. It is always better than single work. Dedication has a positive impact as well. Doing favor to someone is called dedication. Health and social care is mainly related to co-operation and co-ordination between the employees and clients. For instant, an employee may not able to handle heavy things. So, in that case if anyone helps him to accomplish his task that is called dedication. It improves work outcome as well. Trustworthiness and reliability are the two main sources of work effectiveness (Holloway Wheeler, 2002). If the employees trust one another, they can work with free from tension. Because they know whatever the co-workers are doing are correct. Also, they should be reliable so that staff can get help from them whenever it is required. According to Allison (2001) and Posner (n.d.), professionalism has a significant effect in work contribution in health and social care. If professionals forget about their role and start making close relationship with clients, then it brings very negative outcome for the staff. They may be penalized for breaking organizational law. Sometimes, they chat with their co-workers ignoring the service users. But those follow the professionalism rules, can never do such kinds of things. As a result, clients will be happy and work outcome will be increased significantly. Thus, proffesioanlism influences contribution to work. Litman (2009) has stated that economic values may include ownership of property, contributing to common good etc. This value means the value around money. According to some people, this is the most important value for work contribution because if the employees are paid soundly, then they must try to give their best. In reverse, if their expectations are not fulfilled, they must not give their best. Religious values are the other important values. According to Cooper Palmer (1998), these are spiritual values, which means how we should behave, including caring of one another and in worship. Religion views have one of the most significant effects to work contribution. For example, according to Muslim laws, if you do not try to give your best to your employer, then you will be penalised by your god. So, those people who have respect on their religion, they will always try to do better in work. Thus religion values can influence work contributions. According to McPartland (1991), principles are the policy, objectives, rules, fundamental norms, or value that state what are the role of an individual, or an organization, or a community. It also makes a distinction between fairness and unfairness. So, it can influence work contribution as well. Some people may have principles which may be directly opposite to organizational principles. For instant, if a conservative Buddhist is told to serve a non-Buddhist client, he/she may not give positive response and it will affect work contribution negatively. On the other hand, if an open minded Christian is told to something that is work related, they will do with 100% positive attitude. Thus, principles influence workplace contribution in health and social care. 1.2 Analyse how your own cultural values and beliefs influence your work in support and care of service users in your work place. According to Kitayama Cohen (2007) and ODonnell (2001), different cultural values and beliefs impact support and care of service users in workplace differently. Values and principles include equal rights, diversity, confidentiality, protection from abuse and harm. In addition, personal values are beliefs and preferences, culture, political perspectives, interests and priorities, change over lifespan to date etc. I have my own culture and beliefs which also influence the care of the service users. For instance, I am not either vegetarian or non-vegetarian. I take all types of dishes which are halal because I am a muslim. So, I may not be interested to serve those people who will eat much haram dishes. But, in the same time I may provide a better service than a Buddhist. The reason of that is most of the Buddhists are non-vegetarian and they are not willing to serve the people who deserve meats. My culture and value has taught me to treat every person equally. It has also taught me to give adult people their freedom. So, I will not discriminate any people. People from any background are same to me. So, I can provide them a good service. 1.3 Explain how development of new priorities targets and legislation impact upon your role as a care worker. There are a few new developments in legislations, priorities, research, policies, principles and values that can impact upon my role as a care worker. For example, Sex Discrimination Act 1975, The Carers (Recognition and Services) Act 1995, The Carers and Disabled Children Act 2000, The Carers (Equal Opportunities) Act 2004, Disabled Persons Act 1986, Human Rights Act 19980, The Work and Families Act 2006, The Children and Young Persons Act 2008, Care and Support Green Paper, are the legislations and priorities that impact upon my role. Sex Discrimination Act 1975 states that it is unlawful for an employee to discriminate anyone because of their sex. The Carers (Recognition and Services) Act 1995 has given a legal status and some rights to carers. Carers are requested to assess their ability of work under this act. So, as a carer now I do self-assessment and inform it to local council and they take necessary steps. The Carers (Equal Opportunities) Act 2004 is very necessary for all t he carers as it ensures their rights. According to this act, authorised people have to assess their needs, give priority to their wishes, and provide training whenever they need. It also facilitated co-operation between care workers and authorities in relation to the services. The government has recently prepared green paper where care and support system will be mentioned. Also, the government has given carers to express their opinion. In addition, they have engaged all the carers, stakeholders, service users, shareholders and members of the public to give their views to improve care plans. So, now I can share everything related to job with authorized persons and work with free of hassle. Thus these priorities and legislations impact upon my role as a care worker. 1.4 Discuss how the changes in personal values have contributed to your personal development Pavlina (2008) has cited that the changes in personal values and principles have contributed a lot in personal development. For example, if I change my beliefs and preferences then it affects the service users. I used to think that serving the lesbian or gay or people who are not from my background are not good. But when I can come to know the legislations and change my beliefs then I can serve them as well and that is a part of my personal development. As an Asian my culture is different from European culture. So, while serving clients I may have to face difficulty as I dont know their culture very good. But when I will be aware of their culture and views then I can deliver a better service because my cultural value will be changed that time. Thus the changes in personal values have contributed to my personal development. Produce, monitor, revise and evaluate plans for personal progress in developing the skills and abilities required of a care worker 2.1 Assess your own preferred learning style and abilities As a care worker personal progress is very important as it is related to the skills and abilities. According to Jonassen Grabowsk (1993), preferred learning style and abilities vary from person to person. Kolbs (1984) states that, learning style can be concrete experience (feeling), diverging (feeling and watch), accommodating (feeling and doing), active experimentation (doing), reflective observation (watching), assimilating (thinking and watching), and abstract conceptualization (thinking). Learning from experience from outside world can be categorized as assimilating learning style. But usually people can learn four ways and those are watching, listening, writing, and reading. This is called linguistic learning method. Basically I prefer to learn in all ways but it depends what am I learning? For example, if I want to learn how to provide a better service to the service users then I prefer to learn it by linguistic mode and then by assimilating and accommodating because by this wa y I can read, watch, feel and think that I am doing. Then I have to do that practically. I can take notes as well if I want. The reason of that is there are certain things of learning where practical learning is more important than theoretical learning. After that I like to learn by writing and reading. There are a few things where it seems that easy after reading. But after some time I may forget that because only reading can not stimulate the memory cells most effectively. So to stimulate the memory cells effectively, I need to learn by writing as it stimulates my memory cells better than reading. I miss much information while learning by listening. A diagram of my learning style is given below: Reading-Writing-Diverging -Accommodating- assimilating 2.2 Produce and justify a personal development plan with short-medium-and long term aims and Outcome Gallen and Buckle (2001) has noted that acquiring new skills, updating practice, learning, career development etc are the main parts of personal development. According to them, personal Development Plan (PDP) is important for all types of people whatever they are employee or employer or student. As a care worker or a as student of Health and Social care management personal development plan is vital for me. It can be short term, long term, short-medium-and long term aims. My personal development plan with short-medium and long term aims can be learning IT skills, being well-disciplined, improving presentation skills, negotiation policy, learning human resource management, learning people psychology, different types of acts and legislations related to health and social care, making effective decision, acquiring knowledge about medicine, improving leadership skills and developing communication skills. IT skill: At this era information technology is the most important thing to learn as it has an effective impact in Health and Social care management. Without learning IT skills none can reach in a good level of their career. In addition, this branch is vast as well. So I have to spend a long time to be efficient of this branch. Now-a-days all information are saved and managed by computers. In addition, in some cases, computers can be used to diagnose the problem of the service users. I need to learn about programming, Microsoft word, Microsoft excel, power point, drawing good diagrams, presenting power point slides etc. Negotiation policy: this is the area where I must need to improve. For example, when my manager will tell me you are going to be paid this amount of money for your job then I have negotiate with him if I am not satisfied. I have to show him/her the reasons as well why I should be paid more. This is important as money has an influence of employees mentality and employee with good mentality can provide good service. Presentation skills: as a social worker I should have good presentation skill what I dont have at all. If I can not present anything clearly to the service users then many misunderstanding will take place. So, I have to avoid this. It is not possible to improve presentation skills by day night. So, I will do a long term plan to improve my presentation skills. My personal development plan and its outcomes are shown below in the table: Development area Mode Duration Outcome Information technology Long term 5 year Be able to keep records correctly, create necessary soft wares if necessary. Presentation skills Long term 1 year Make clients understand what services they are going to get Negotiation policy Short term 3 month Ensured self betterment Human resource management Short-medium term 3 month Managing human resource Law, legislation and acts Long term 5 years Be able to deal with complaints and play by rules. Leadership skills Short medium 3 months Leading effectively. Decision making Medium term 1 year Be able to take right decision. 2.3 Discuss the arrangements to monitor the progress of your personal development plan. The progress of my personal development program can be monitored by the outcome and job performances. For example, if I take IT and leadership skill as my personal development plan then it can be monitored by my record keeping skills, saving patients data, handling electronic devices etc. leadership skills can be monitored by the way I am managing people. For example, if hundred employees work under me I have to manage all of them efficiently where ever they are from or who ever they are. In addition, my progress can be monitored by performance appraisal. 2.4 Evaluate your personal development plan in context with your duties as a care worker Bild Pountney (2007) have shown the necessity of personal development plan of a care worker. So, as a care worker my personal development plan is very important. IT skills and decision making were included in my personal development plan. As a care worker knowledge about IT helped me to keep all medical records digitally. I could find out information from computer or any electronic devices quickly. Decision making was another important thing. For example, if any frail client tells me he can not move and breathe properly. Also, he does not know what happened to him last night. But so far, he knows he did not take any food last night. In that situation, I am to take quick decision otherwise something can happen seriously. So, in context with my duties as a care worker these are essential to include as my personal development plan (PDP). Analyse the application of principles of professional engagement with service users in a specific setting 3.1 Analyse the nature of different professional relationships in health and social care context According to Fritz Omdahl (2006), professional relationship is a process by which staffs make relationship with individuals, service users family and friends, workers with other agencies, colleagues or any authorized persons related to health and social care. Usually, it is focused on some specific principles of an organization. The natures of professional relationships are described below: Relationship with service users: All the service users should be respected as individual and service users with no mental problem can choose any services those are required. Service providers are entitled to provide appropriate care to clients without any hassle. In addition, healthcare professionals are not allowed to discriminate anyone while providing service. Carers, doctors, social workers or any healthcare professionals must ensure service users confidentiality. They are not allowed to disclose any information to anyone unless it harms to their clients. Every health care specialists, carers or service users will ensure the full autonomy of their clients. Engagement with co-workers: A good understanding and work relationship among the staff must be established so that they can work as a team. Martin et al (2009) have stated that, teamwork always ensures good outcome of work. Health care staff, social workers, carers will share their views and knowledge with everyone which are related to job to provide better service. Every staff will respect other cultures and may accept the good knowledge from them. Employers and service providers will work together to keep a workplace with no discrimination, harassment, bully etc. Everyone will work together to keep a safe workplace. They will make a work relationship among them but not more than that like emotional relationship. this can harm engagement among the employees. 3.2 Analyse effectiveness of different models of care/support in health and social care settings According to Heller et al (1999), health care services can be provided by various models e.g. bio-medical model/conventional medical model, bio-psycosocial model, traditional social care model, NHS social care model etc. But in the UK health care services are traditionally delivered by bio-medical model. Every model has particular effectiveness for providing health care which are described below: According to Srivastava (2007), effectveness of conventional medical model: Supports are available in terms of healthcare as conventional medical model is formed by the basis of NHS and western health care systems. Protecting illness and disability becomes easier as health services are mainly geared towards treating the sick and disabled people. A high value can be ensured in terms of specialist medical services especially in institutional setting or clinics. This model gives a chance to conduct medical research effectively. Effectiveness of bio-psychological model: In 1986 Kleinman and Good have stated that bio-psychological model focuses on the psychological, emotional, social and mental problem. As a result, experts can identify service users mental needs effectively. It recognizes that disease or illness can be neither studied nor treated in isolation from social and cultural environment. It considers the links between socioeconomic deprivation and adverse health e g improving access to health care and reducing health inequalities. Effectiveness of tradtional social care model (according to Leira, 2002): It always priorotse the vulnearable groups so that they can get help from the service providers without any hassle at any time. Service users and their organisations are fully involved in the development and even delivery of services. It also empower the people. Effectiveness of the NHS social care model: Glasby Littlechild (2004) has shown that NHS social care model always prioritizes the improvement of care for people with long term conditions. This model will help to ensure health and social care organisations take an overall structured and systematic approach to improving the care of those long term conditions The immediate focus should be the introduction of case management for the most vulnerable people with complex long term conditions so that long term hospital admissions can be reduced. It aims to achieve early detection, good control to minimise effects of disease and reduce complications, improve effective medicine management. It also promotes independence, empowers patients and allows them to take control of their lives. Overally, it improves patients quality of life. 3.3 Critically analyse own role in promoting individuals choice, ability and right to care for and protect themselves According to Bradley et al (2009), own role is very important in health and social care workplaces to promote individuals choice, ability, right and to protect the service users. The lists of my plans are given below to implement these things: As a social care worker I will must protect the rights and promote the interest of service users. This means I will Treat every person as an individual, Respect their privacy and promote the individual views and wishes of both service users and carers. In addition, I will promote equal opportunities, Respect diversity and different cultures and values for service users and carers. I must strive to establish and maintain trust and confidence of service users and carers. It includes to be honest, trustworthy, Communicating in an appropriate, open, accurate and straightforward way with the colleagues and clients. In addition, I will be relieable and dependant, honoring to service users and carers. Also, I will be adhering to policies and procedures about accepting gifts and money from service users and carers. I will promote the independence of service users while protecting them from dangers. It means Using established processes to challenge and report dangerous, abusive and discriminatory or exploitative behavior and practice. I will ask them to give their opinions because people usually feel important if anyone asks about their choice or wish. I may identify their emotional needs as well by this way. I will talk to the service users cordially about their concerns and interests so that they can express what they want. So, I can be aware of them and can protect them. (CD lesson 3, page 7, little bit) 3.4 Analyze the dilemmas that may arise in professional relationships and how you would deal with them In 2005, Tribe Morrissey have noted that, lots of dilemmas can arise in professional relationship e.g. abuse, ethics, challenging behavior, risk, conflicts between values and principles, confidentiality vs. disclosure, values of others etc. For example, ethical dilemmas can arise frequently in professional relationship. it means people can not understand actually what to do. Though sometimes they are able to take a decision, many questions arise like is it correct that is done? Usually, there are two types of ethical dilemma and one is the Right to Accept or refuse treatment and other one is the Patient Bill of Right. A patient with no mental problem can take his medical decision. They have right to choose whther they will accept death or life. But as a medical professional his/her duty is to ensure clients well-being or save life. So, this is an ethical dilemma. But most of the cases, it is suggested to give priority of the clients wish. Another dilemma can arise in terms of ensuring clients confidentiality and disclosure of any information. For instant, if a care service user tell his/her carer like this, I want to tell you something if do not disclose it. After that the carer can come to know that his/her clint is being abused by another carer. By that case, he/she should infrom it to an authorized person to protect the client from abuse but she/he is already told not to disclose it. So, dilemma can arise between confidentiality and disclosure by this way. In this case, the carer should tell it to an authorized person to protect the client from abuse and to ensure safe-guarding and well-being. 1000 words 4.1 Evaluate own contribution to your work team Bradley et al (2009) and Leathard (2003) have mentioned that in health and social care every individuals performance is very important. My own contributions as a social care worker are evaluated below: In my workplace I always inform my colleagues about my activities to an appropriate level of detail. I always behave in such a way so that it supports the team to be more effective. It means my actions, speech, language, body language, gestures, written and verbal communications are always polite. I am efficient in computer skills. So, I can handle all the electrical data. I share my views, ideas and information relevant to job with team members. I also accept others ideas and information to make team work smoother. I always offer assistant in a friendly and helpful way whenever it is required. I suggest clearly if I have any better idea to improve team work at an appropriate time. 4.2 Discuss how your contribution influence the effectiveness of the teams of which you are a member. According to West (2004) and Snee (n.d.), contribution of every individual has an influence of the effectiveness in a team. My contribution also influences the effectiveness of team work in various ways. For example, I know about the Legislations, Policies and Good Practices which are relevant to health and social care. So, I can provide a very good service to the clients. Moreover, my colleagues often are benefitted by me. As a result, teamwork becomes developed. in addition, I can communicate in a effective way with my fellows. So that, lots of misunderstanding, ambiguity, conflict, backstabbing, and mistrust can be avoided which influence the effectiveness of team work. I have a clear idea about the role of individual. So, I can specify their roles and they can perfrom according to that and it increases team outcome significantly. In addition, I am aware of different cultures and values and I act in a way what they want. According toà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. it inspires teammates which are another root of effective teamwork. I have very good leadership skills and it helps to lead my colleagues. Time management is one of the most crucial skills that I have. So, I do my job in time and I suggest other people to follow me. They also follow me which influences team effectiveness. Thus my contributions influence the effectiveness of the team. 4.3 Describe the limits of your work role and how these impact on your work with others According to Heron (1998), every employee has limitations of their roles and responsibility and these are influenced by others. As a care management trainee I have some limitations as well. For example, I am not allowed give any new medication to a service user at any condition. In addition, as I work in management position, I should not involve in care work. I am not allowed to gather any personal information both of colleagues and clients. I should not handle their documents which are supposed to handle by their lawyers. Failing to do any of these has very negative outcome of individual role. Colleagues may not trust and respect. Also, employees may not listen to me and I can be frustrated. As a result, work outcome can be reduced sharply. 4.4 Analyse the barriers for effective team working and how you would contribute minimizing such barrier. West (2004) and Snee (n.d.) notes that effective teamwork is very important in every sphere of work and there are lots of barriers of effective team work. For instant, poor leadership, interpersonal interactions, poor communication, professional codes, poor team dynamics, high expectations, different priorities, lack of trust, silo thinking, pressure of high accountability can be the barriers of effective teamwork. In the same time, there are many ways as well by which social workers can minimize these barriers. As a social care worker I am required to work with my colleagues as well as various professionals and it is a daily occurrence for me. These professionals could be doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists laboratory technicians and pharmacists and many other professions. My colleagues and they may be from different cultures and they have different values. So, at the starting level of job all people need to share their views and knowledge and it wastes lots of time. Leadership has a great impact of team working because almost everything flows from here. It is leaders fault if a team can not perform in proper way. The reasons can be not enough communication among the employees or lack of proper guidance. Sometimes, leaders fail to specify of individuals agenda. So, team members are not aware of their roles and can not perform well which reduce the productivity of team work. Poor communication and high expectations are the other barriers of effective team work. These cause lots of misunderstanding, ambiguity, conflict, backstabbing, and mistrust among the employees. Employees have to work under stress as well if they have to fulfil higher expectation. Study from Anon (n.d.) has shown that, poor team dynamics can cause breakdown of team dynamics and team can fail to achieve their goals. Also, absenteeism of employees reduces team dynamics and cut performance of a team. Ways to minimize barriers of team work: Trust in all colleagues. Being respectful to seniors and team leaders. Communicate effectively with the employees. Let the employees work according to their ability. Focus on team as well as individual performance. Constructive criticism should be improved. Reducing the absentee rate etc. Overall, any organization can minimize the barriers by following these things and does excellent team work. 4.5 Discuss how you can contribute personally to the effectiveness of your team According to Snee (n.d.) and West (2004), every individual can influence team effectiveness significantly by playing their professional roles. My own contribution can influence team effectiveness as well and some of the ways are given below: Share own views, ideas with co-workers. Offer help to service users and colleagues whenever it is necessary. Provide suggestion for the betterment of work. Respect everyone in the team especially the seniors. Explaining team roles and goals to eve

Hybrid Cars Essay -- Gasoline Electric Hybrid Automobiles

Want to buy a hybrid car? Consider the facts. You may be correct in thinking that you should buy a hybrid car or SUV, but are you thinking you need it for the right reasons? Kevin Ransom’s article â€Å"Reasons to buy a hybrid – or not† updated on CNN’s website in January 28, discusses many aspects consumers should consider when thinking about buying a hybrid vehicle. He makes good points, but he needs some better ones to convince me. Ransom is making an argument with plenty of statistics for buying a hybrid and trying at the same time to give you somewhat of a counterargument against buying a hybrid. He never takes a clear bias, but leaves many questions out in the open. One example of this is his lack of comparing a Prius with anything. Also he claims that hybrids are â€Å"definitely one of the waves of the future. Does he mean they are a link to the future with ten times better innovations coming in the near future? This link needs to become cost effective if he thinks this is moving forward. He tells us that one school of thought is that it could take years for a consumer to break even on the amount saved in fuel costs. This is definitely true considering if the price difference between base models of a Toyota Civic and a Civic Hybrid being $18,710 and $22,600 respectively. That is a difference of $3,890 with the only major standard equipment difference being a navigation screen most users opt out from getting in the first place! Also, the base model Ford Escape and base Escape Hybrid are priced at $20,140 and $27,445 respectively. That is a whopping difference of $7,305. We will come back to the issue of cost, but now we will move on to the environment and how it is affected. Ransom’s first major point of interest is the fact t... ... cost of replacement will fall onto the customer. The costs of replacement the battery packs range from $2,000 to $5,000 depending on the model. This piece of information would be very important to include in Ransom’s article if he is trying to compare and contrast benefits of having a hybrid. Because the article appeared in a journalistic setting, the author is trying to appeal to a general audience by using language that is to formal or informal. The genre is an opinionated article with statistics that he uses trying to sway readers and influence their thoughts In Conclusion, if Ransom is trying to persuade the general public that is a good idea to buy a hybrid at this time, he is going to need to use more conclusive evidence that proves it is worth the setbacks. Works Cited Ransom, Kevin. http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/01/28/buy.hybrid/index.html

Ethics in Decision Making Essay

Decision making or the process of choosing among alternatives is practiced by almost all individuals (Mingst, 2001). In almost every situation people is faced with the idea of making decisions whether it is as simple as choosing what clothes to buy up to life changing choices like deciding on a particular career path. This kind of act is not always as simple as it looks like especially when decisions are perceived according to particular factors that affect it. The choices that a person made are often influenced by many factors and one of which is the idea of ethics. Ethics is a set of standards that directs an individual on how to act in certain situations. The idea of ethics is often confused with feelings, law, religion, science, and cultural norms. These concepts influenced ethics in one way or another but these are not synonymous with it. Ethical standards are derived from five sources namely: Utilitarian Approach, Rights Approach, Fairness or Justice Approach, Common Good Approach, and Virtue Approach (Santa Clara University, 2007). The Utilitarian Approach emphasizes the idea that ethical action gives greater good and minimal harm. This approach is after the results of particular decisions that it should strived to give more advantageous effects rather than adverse consequences. A good example of this is ethics in corporation that aim to produce more beneficial results for everyone in the company (Santa Clara University, 2007). The Rights Approach is a source of ethical standards that gives high regards in respecting and protecting the moral rights of those people concern. This can be rooted from the idea that the very essence of an individual’s humanity that enables him/her to make decisions for oneself entitled each one of them to a sense of dignity. Based on this dignity, their rights as individuals should be given due importance. These rights also come with its corresponding duties and one of which is to respect the rights of other people as well (Santa Clara University, 2007). The Fairness or Justice Approach is based on the arguments of Aristotle and other Greek philosophers that â€Å"all equals should be treated equally†. Ethical actions should treat individuals equally but if there is inequality then there should be a defensible standard as to such. A corporate environment is a best example of such approach because workers are paid according to their productivity and contribution to the company, which is perceived as fair. However, there is contention when it comes to the CEOs of companies because their salary is many times larger than the others which make such disparity unfair for some (Santa Clara University, 2007). The Common Good Approach gives value in the importance of life. They believe that the very idea of life is good which is why ethical actions should contribute to the well-being of that life. The intermingling of societal relationships as well as the respect and care for others especially the marginalized are emphasized. Furthermore, this approach also highlights the importance of conditions that bring common good (Santa Clara University, 2007). The Virtue Approach is considered as a very ancient way of looking at ethical actions. Certain virtues are to be followed in order to attain the full development of human beings. These virtues are needed in order to reach the full potential of ones character. Questions like â€Å"What kind of person will I become if I do this? † or â€Å"is this action consistent with my acting at my best? † are taken into consideration in this approach (Santa Clara University, 2007). These aforementioned sources of ethics could be applied in the process of decision making especially with the individuals or decision makers that are involved within the process. Decision makers have various motivations and characteristics that affect their choices. There are two types of motivation namely the â€Å"in-order-to motives† and the â€Å"because-of-motives†. The â€Å"in-order-to motives† explains that a decision maker will choose a particular decision in order to accomplish a certain objective (Mingst, 2001). Ethics could highly influence this kind of motivation especially in terms of the Utilitarian, Virtue, and Common Good approaches. The Utilitarian approach is manifested in the â€Å"in-order-to motives† because if an individual will make a decision based on an objective of producing more good rather than harm then it already fulfils an ethical action in the Utilitarian perspective. In terms of the Virtue approach, ethics is seen in the motivation of the decision maker when the choices made are based on an objective that helps the development of an individual towards its full potential. The Common Good approach also asserts ethics because actors are influenced to choose decisions that will bring about the greater good to the most number of people. On the other hand, the â€Å"because-of-motives† arises from the â€Å"unconscious or semiconscious motives or impulses arising out of previous life experience or inner values, interests, or drives of the decision maker† (Mingst, 2001). Ethical action becomes possible in the decisions made by an individual based on the ideas of the Rights Approach and the Fairness or Justice Approach. The Rights Approach exemplified the moral rights of the people that should be respected and protected. These rights motivate the decision maker to make choices that will uphold these values. Similarly, the Fairness or Justice Approach also influences the motive of the decision maker by putting in mind the idea of what is equal from what is not especially if such idea is something that the individual values or has interests on. According to the assumptions of the Decision Making Theory, a rational actor plays a vital role in the decision making wherein that individual is well-aware of the list of available alternatives and capable of calculating each option’s possible results and has the freedom of choice to select the one with the highest preferential value. However, the biographical knowledge of the decision maker has a crucial role in the choices that will be made. Factors such as a person’s educational background, religion, life experiences, mental and physical health as well as other activities could explain the interests and values of the decision maker (Mingst, 2001). An individual decision maker is already influenced by numerous factors that affect its decisions which make decision making for a collective entity of diverse people more complicated. A population would have various and sometimes conflicting interests and basically different decisions. In such case, the important factor for this diverse population to successfully arrive at a most advantageous decision is to acquire consensus. Consensus building is an important factor for the decision making process of a diverse population. Since they have numerous interests and motives they need to be able to arrive at a decision that everybody will benefit from even if it means having to compromise at times. In doing so, they also need an appropriate leader that would collaborate their interests. A democratic form of leadership is a good example of how the process of decision making takes place in a diverse population (Bissessar, 2004). The interests of its citizens are represented through party system as well as by elected political leaders. However, numerous party systems is still not that easy to manage which is why a rational and appropriate leader is still needed that would be able to make sound decisions for its citizens. The decision maker is the most important part of the decision making process. The motives, interests as well as the background of this rational actor are vital in order to understand the choices that are made. Being the case, ethical standards is also one of the factors that influenced these decisions. This also applies in the decision making of diverse population because they need consensus building in order to embody their various and sometimes conflicting interests. In doing so, it also need an appropriate leader that would collaborate their interests and implements the decision.Ethical standards and the other factors that influence the decision maker have a big part in the selection of sound decisions. References Bissessar. A. M. (2004). Globalization and Governance: Essays on the Challenges for Small Countries. North Carolina: McFarland. Santa Clara University. (2007). A Framework for Thinking Ethically. Retrieved 14 May 2008, from http://www. scu. edu/ethics/practicing/decision/framework. html. Mingst, K. (2001). Essentials of International Relations. New York: W. W. Norton & Co.

Comprehensive Environmental Analysis Paper

Running head: Comprehensive Environmental Analysis Paper Comprehensive Environmental Analysis Paper University of Phoenix August 31, 2009 Comprehensive Environmental Analysis Paper Despite the recent setbacks for its image, the United States has by far the largest influence in the region. During 2007, China supplied over two-thirds of computers exported to the U. S. from the six major trading nations. In fact, China contributed to $23. 2 billion (76. 7% ) of U. S. computer imports. It should not, however, take its influence in the region for granted, if China is to continue to position itself as an Asia Pacific power. Its influence in the region cannot be maintained by economic and military supremacy alone. East Asia is going through historic geopolitical changes due to the rise of China. Political interest in the vision of an East Asian community suggests that the region is in search of a new order to accommodate China’s growing power and influence and to maintain regional peace and stability. In no way is this an easy enterprise. Asian countries tend to suffer from domestic political difficulties in economic liberalization, large gaps in developmental stages among regional economies, and mutual distrust and historical antagonism between Japan and China. Despite these difficulties, however, there is a growing consensus that, eventually, East Asian countries will come up with some form of a regional community. Regional alliances and economic integration East Asian economic integration will help reduce regional tension and lighten America's security burden in the region. Economic integration will engage regional powers in stable regional interdependence where one's prosperity is in the interest of others, and make them more predictable and reliable to each other. Successful development of poorer countries in Asia through integration in regional economic dynamism will help political stability and reduce the possibility that these countries will become hotbeds of terrorism. Regional: Physical environment and its effect on trade Asia’s physical environment has a big affect on trade in a couple of ways. First the weather in Asia as a region is very unpredictable. Having unpredictable weather or catastrophic events can have a major impact on a business because companies could lose physical property, manufacturing time, or products which would result in financial loss. The air quality within the cities of Asia is poor and is known for creating health issues among the individuals living in that area. Production can be affected if employees are out sick and away from their jobs. Air pollution and an unclean environment only somewhat effects trade; however an organization can easily open up a factory there as well with cheap labor and weak environmental laws. Many foreign companies have placed their factories in China with a great deal of success because of the ability to hire cheap labor and to run their factories without many regulations. Regional Political Stability The political stability of China seems precarious at best. â€Å"While the US relies on free markets and free societies as the basis for contemporary socioeconomic and political movement, China focuses on stability as the essence of its foreign policy† (Cheow, 2006). China has often been fueled by propaganda but in recent years, China’s top political leaders have begun to stress how important stability is with all people throughout their country. This includes all people from all backgrounds. China’s political stability has helped to fuel economic growth throughout the country. Regional Social, Health, and Environmental Conditions Chinese workers remain among the lowest paid in the world. The average total labor compensation for a Chinese manufacturing worker is 57 cents per hour, with many making far less than that, benefits included† (McCormack, 2006). This translates to approximately $104 per month; this makes living any type of decent life as we know it utterly impossibly. Many low-paid Chinese employees will live in squalor and with many people to small single bedroom quarters. In China there is no shortage of workers; China has a large unemployment rate of 25% (McCormack, 2006) leaving an abundance of low arning employees for many years to come. Regional Terrorism Threats China does have an internal terrorist threat. Not only are there Muslim Separatists’ in the region, but also the Uygur separatist groups and the East Turkistan Islamic Movement, both of which have â€Å"been reputed to have trained in Afghanistan to fight along with the Taliban and al Qaeda† (chinaguide,com, 2009). It is important to understand China has recognized this issue and â€Å"to fight terrorism, the Chinese government will enhance international cooperation and strengthen legislation and law enforcement on anti-terrorism† (Xinhua News Agency, 2005). Regional: Economic conditions The economic conditions of Asia differ from which country you are in. This can affect trade in many ways that are positive and negative. The positives that come from a poor economy are the ability to hire cheap labor and to spend less on manufacturing the product. The company also comes into the region offering jobs to a society that truly needs money and the ability to make a living. Another advantage is the ability to export products all over the world from a very productive location. Negative aspects of a poor economy are that the product will not sell well in a poor region. Theft and destruction to an organization are another hazard that could occur when located in a poor region. The economic situations vary; some places in Asia are wealthy while some are very poor. Due to this fact, it is important to tailor an organizations marketing strategy to those each specific area. Regional: Finance options available When an organization decides to open their company in Asia, it is imperative to finance through a financial company that is well established. Team B’s company should finance their global organization through a successful, well established lender. There are also many successful companies in Asia that could possibly help finance and invest in Team B’s organization. Creating a strong business partner is extremely important in creating a successful and long-lasting organization. Country Political stability Since 1978 China has gone through a series of rapid changes within their government system; these political changes span from human rights practices to new labor laws. These new laws have allowed China to create a solid and stable foundation for the government and to operate on a daily basis. At the current time, China is politically stable. This can be seen in the growth of China as well as the impact that China is having on the global market. Country Economic Conditions In 1987, China constructed a three step developmental strategy that would increase the overall economic conditions in China. These three developmental strategies are: to double the 1980 GNP and ensure that the people have enough food and clothing, to quadruple the 1980 GNP by the end of the 20th century, and to increase per-capita GNP to the level of the medium-developed countries by the year 2050. Step one ensures that the Chinese level of poverty will not increase. The second step has already been achieved in 1995. Finally, the third and final step, explains that by increasing the GNP, Chinese citizens will be financially stable and be equipped with modern technology. The current economic condition is better than expected with new heavy and light industry, agricultural and energy expansion. The Chinese economy continues to grow at a fast pace. Country Financial Options Building and manufacturing plastic laptop housing in China offers a couple of financial options for the company to expand. The first financial option available is low to no interest loans offered by the Chinese government. This financial option is an incentive offered by China to attract new business into their country. Another financial option is building capital through investors. This option would create a group of shareholders that have intvested the capital needed to build a new facility with potential return on their investment. Country Social, Health, and Environmental Conditions The current social, health and environmental conditions are not as good as other countries but the Chinese government is working on reforming these conditions throughout the nation. The safety and working conditions are considered much lower and more dangerous than other parts of the world. A few of the steps that the Chinese government is currently working on are 1. â€Å"Enacting and improving environment and health laws and regulations. † (China. org. cn. ,  2009). 2. â€Å"Build a supervision network on environment and health† (China. org. cn. ,  2009). 3. â€Å"Set up state environment and health information share and service system† (China. org. cn. ,  2009). Even though China’s current social, health, and environmental conditions are not the most favorable, the Chinese government is continually working on ways to improve the quality of the environment and working conditions throughout the nation. Cultural Considerations One of the first things that should be considered is that China’s history spans more than 5,000 years. In years past China has experienced times of feudalism, communism, invasion, but now they have a fledgling market economy. When considering doing business in China, one of the biggest things to consider is the different arrays of Chinese business culture and etiquette. Chinese business culture and etiquette includes maintaining eye contact between the members of the business meeting. Without eye contact the perception of untrustworthiness will be portrayed. Another very important aspect of Chinese business etiquette is to address each Chinese counterpart with his or her title and last name; if they don’t have a title address them with Mr. or Madam. China’s current culture should be taken into consideration to illustrate respect towards their country and businesses (Winters, 2008). Organization and Product Analysis Team B will be developing an organization that intends to make plans for manufacturing laptop computer housing in China. Computer housing is the shell that protects the memory, processors, and drives that enable a computer to work. This organization would create and manufacture computer housing then sell them to computer companies like Dell, IBM, or HP who would then build and sell computers to consumers. Desktop computer housing sales have declined because there has been a decrease in desktop sales and an increase in laptop sales. The market is also beginning to see sales of Notebooks or small wireless computers that’s main function is internet media and communication (Abbasi, 2009). As laptop sales and notebook sales increase there will be a continuous need for laptop housing. Conclusion Ultimately, as the demand for technology increases and adapts to an emerging Chinese society, active U. S. support for improving global and regional institutions, promoting Asian development and fostering Asian regional cooperation would enhance its influence in the region and elsewhere. With this perspective, the rise of China and the trend toward intra-regional economic integration in Asia are opportunities for both of our countries. Team B’s organization would benefit in many aspects by manufacturing laptop housing in China. References Abbasi, S. (2009). Netbooks a factor in increase in laptop sales. Startup Meme. Retrieved August 30, 2009 from, http://startupmeme. com/netbooks-a-factor-behind-increase-in-laptop-sales/. China. org. cn.. (2009). Action Plan on Environment and Health (2007-2015). Retrieved August  30, 2009, from http://www. china. org. cn/english/environment/238275. htm China Under Threat of Terrorism: Official (August, 2005) Retrieved August 29, 2009 From: http://www. china. org. cn/english/government/140269. htm Good Luck Competing Against Chinese Labor Costs Mfg. Job Growth In China Is Headed Up, Not Down; 109 Million Mfg. Workers In China Dwarfs Number In U. S. , McCormack, R. (May, 2006). Retrieved August 29, 2009 from: http://www. manufacturingnews. com/news/06/0502/art1. html US Department of State. (2009). Background Note: China . Retrieved August  30, 2009, from http://www. state. gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/18902. htm U. S. -China Ideological Rivalry Heats Up. (January 2006) Cheow, E. The Japan Times. Retrieved August 29, 2009 from: http://yaleglobal. yale. edu/display. article? id=6737 Winters, E. (2008). Headed for China? Cultural considerations. China Business Success Stories. Retrieved August 30, 2009 from, http://www. chinasuccessstories. com/2008/02/13/heading-for-china/. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.. (2009). Economy of the People's Republic of China. Retrieved August  30, 2009, from http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Economy_of_the_People's_Republic_of_China | |