Synthesis of Guernica

During the Spanish Civil War, a small Basque village was bombed by German troops. In April of 1937, Pablo Picasso paid tribute to the bombing by creating the painting, Guernica, which showed a horrible scene of corpses and disaster stricken community. In 1985, a replication of Guernica was donated to the United Nations headquarters in New York and was â€Å"hung outside in the Security Council chamber. † In February of 2003, councilmen gathered at the UN in order to hear US Secretary of State Colin Powell build the American case for war against Iraq.Before the procedure could begin, however, the replication was covered with â€Å"a blue curtain and flags of the council’s member countries,† under the notion that it â€Å"was simply a matter of creating a more effective backdrop for the television cameras. † Off the record, some UN officials believe that â€Å"the United States leaned on UN officials to cover the tapestry, rather than have it in the backgro und while Powell or other US diplomats argued for war on Iraq. † This situation relates directly to George Orwell’s 1984.The covering of Guernica is similar to the censorship Orwell condemns in 1984. (Source 4:Walsh) In 1984, everything was censored and citizens were not allowed to think for themselves. Their government, the Party, regulated every aspect of life, from working to sleeping. Everyone was under their control. Even children were taught to censor the things their parents did or said. The government also dictated what was seen in the media, which is how Guernica connects to 1984. The theme of the painting, Guernica, is war.To have this graphic tribute to the loss of innocent lives as the background for one’s speech justifying war is questionable. Just as the Party censored the media in 1984, UN officials were censoring what the public was seeing here. Why would they allow a painting that shows death, heartache, and loss to be the first thing the public saw? This would make the public question the motives of those speaking and make them wonder what there ulterior motives were for waging war against Iraq.If the Guernica would have remained the backdrop for the Secretary of State Colin Powell, the US would have been questioned by not only its citizens, but those of other countries also. When questioned, the US would have lost supporters and cooperation from its sister countries. This would have eventually led to bad relations between countries, which would have affected everyone greatly. In the end, politics is nothing more than a popularity contest.

Relating Marxist Theory with the Business Cycle in Economics Essay

Marx question essay How does an over-abundance of goods produce an apparent â€Å"famine† (depression)? Is it possible to produce too much as Marx contends and if so, how can such overproduction be prevented? When Marx says over production causes famine he is referring to the economic/ business cycle. This is a theory which had been confirmed by the ‘the panic of 1825’a stock market crash that started in the Bank of England arising in part out of speculative investments in Latin America, including the imaginary country of Poyais. This is how it works: The growth trend refers to potential Gross domestic Product (GDP) or simply the level of economic growth, which is desiredi. e. in which the level of unemployment neither below nor above the optimal level. The bending arrows represent the actual level of economic growth achieved or RealGross domestic Product (RGDP). This is alsocalled real output aslabeled on in the diagram. Aggregate demand is the total amount of goods and services that all buyers in an economy want to buy at different prices, Aggregate supply is the total quantity of goods and services produced in an economy at different price levels) This happens in perpetual cycles that cannot usually be accurately predicteduntil it is too late. Governments and the market try to ease the effects of these cycles. When Marx says â€Å"a great part not only of the existing products, but also of the previously created productive forces, are periodically destroyed† he is referring to the collapse of markets, the closure of business and the loss of jobs that happen during recessions. And when he saysâ€Å"famine† and â€Å"a state of momentary barbarism† he is talking of the effects of these collapses such as widespread unemployment, shortages of food, protests and riots and a general reduction in standards of living. Despite the unpredictability of the economic cycle what is certain is that a recession follows a boom. In a boomas more is produced people earn more and spend more, as a result prices become higher, and when prices become too high people are in effect earning less and they spend less therefore then the economy goes into recession, eventually the process repeats itself. This is why it can be contended that overproduction causes this famine. In Marx’s eyes the destructive effects of the cycle become worse and worse each time it occurs and this will eventually lead to the total collapse of the system itself. The only remedy to this problem would be a complete upheaval of this system. This is because of the way it its intrinsically structured. Marx says isâ€Å"Constant revolutionizing of production, uninterrupted disturbance of all social conditions, everlasting uncertainty and agitation distinguish the bourgeois epoch from all earlier ones. † What this means is that the system is built in such a way that production needs to keep changing and expanding; as old markets close new ones open up and this continues on in this way. This causes the fluctuations in aggregate demand and supply and consequently the cycle of boom and recession. So while society may try to ease the effects of the fluctuations the fluctuations themselves cannot be stopped. Thus another way of providing for the needs of people needs to be developed, the bourgeoisie needs to be uprooted and a system of communism put in place. If material wealth is distributed on the basis of need there should never be over-production, there will be no need for continual exploitation of new markets and thus the economic cycle should no longer occur. Marx’s thinking makes a lot of sense especially when observing the effects of economic downturns since the panic of 1825. Their effects have gotten increasingly worse. In latest downturns we see record high rates of unemployment and record lowstandards of living globally. However the claim that this directly arises from over-production can be disputed because of the basic principle of supply and demand. Production in a Capitalist economy is driven by demand. If people are willing to purchase goods at certain prices they will be produced by profit seeking (1) http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Business_cycle#Marxist_economics suppliers. If demand falls, production falls and vice versa. Therefore one can argue that production is dependent on societies’ needs and wants so any overproduction will be an impossibility, as nothing that is not demandedwill be produced. This has the implication that the fluctuations in the economy are caused by societies’ demands. However if society were to bearranged in such a way that the means of production were commonly owned and wealth was distributed by basis of need then the fluctuations would affect everyone equally and would effectively cause no real problem. In this situation a communist system would be essential Overall one would say that Marx’s idea seems to hold water. This is especially because of the historical evidence we have of economic crises even long after his death. Nevertheless there are some inconsistencies in what he contends and those need to be addressed for his system to work. As I stated in class there should have been more distinction between Marxist economic theory.

Management report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Management report - Essay Example The information derived will thus be used by the company to formulate its marketing strategy to enter the developing markets. The company has decided to cater to the need of a specific customer target (niche market) as this will assist in entering and penetrating that particular market. First and foremost task of Connection will be to envisage its corporate goal and this will later on be segregated into SMART objectives which will have to be achieved within the predetermined time period. Later on, the marketing strategies will be developed to achieve the corporate goal. The management of the company will then formulate a development plan to decide the manner in which the marketing process will be conducted in the target market. Operation plan will then be framed to decide the marketing activities. This will be followed by the cost related activities after which the marketing budget of the company will be finalised. Connection is a company that plans to operate in the mobile manufacturing sector. Though UK is its country of origin, it is more focussed on the developing markets. A proper understanding of the needs and demands of the target customer base is thereby required so that the product range can be modified accordingly. The mission statement is framed in alignment with its vision. According to it, the company will produce such handsets that possess high economic value. The technology used in such handsets will be of international level. The company will ensure that quality is not compromised at any cost and that the products are friendly and easy to operate. Connection strongly believes that environment is one of the vital stakeholders in the company; hence the products and the technology used by Connection will be environment friendly. The mission statement of the company is also focused in developing an organisational culture where the employees will feel themselves to be an integral part of the

Nonverbal behaviour Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Nonverbal behaviour - Essay Example Eye contact is a non-verbal behavior that is important in our culture and other because it confirms a person’s credibility. Eye contact is a non-verbal behavior that could indicate love, hostility or friendliness towards another individual. Hence, the way a person makes eye contact may indicate his intentions, which may be good or bad.  The non-verbal behavior that I once violated was eye contact; it was when I was dropped out of school, it was very difficult for me to make an eye contact to my family that includes my parents’ and siblings. When I initiated conversation with my parents’ and siblings telling them about the school incident, I was continuously staring at the ground without making any eye contact due to fear and confusion. The responses I expect from my family vary a lot. My parent’s reaction was different as compared to my siblings. My parents were angry and sad, but my siblings found my behavior funny or full of lies. Hence, I got two diff erent reactions from my family. According to the expectancy violation theory, no verbal communication is the exchange of messages, which can violate the expectation of another individual, which can be taken negatively depending on the strength of ratio ship between the two people who are communicating. Thus, through my behavior I do violate the expectations of my parents and siblings. As a result, of my attitude, the outcome of my communication is perceived negatively. Because, â€Å"we learn what we consider being appropriate through our interactions with others and our culture"(Burgoon, 1993). Eye gaze is one of the most important variables in American as well as, other cultures. Eye contact is considered bad between a boy and a girl in many societies; however, in some cultures it is regarded as highly offensive if a person does not make an eye contact during a conversation. Consequently, this rule varies from culture to culture. A person working for a business should possess str ong non verbal communication skills, or it will be regarded as highly inappropriate. In the similar way, if we do not make eye contact with our teachers at school or college level, it will be regarded as a sign of weakness in a person’s personality. Eye contact is a strong way of communicating, a quick glance and an aggressive stare both are form of eye contacts but send different messages. One should be extremly careful as to when, how and where to use eye gaze as different cultures perceive it differently and could build a lot of misunderstanding between people. In business, one should not continuously stare another person while talking, instead staring, nodding and smiling would send appropriate messages to a business partner. Moreover, blinking fast and not making a proper eye contact could show feelings of nervousness and lack of confidence. Furthermore, in our culture long and stern stares send messages of animosity and hostility. In the same way, staring a stranger in some European countries is depicted as showing interest; on the other hand, in our society it would be taken as being disrespectful. In Asian countries in particular, brief eye contact is acceptable especially while talking to teachers, parents or business environments it shows kindness and respectfulness. Similarly, in Muslim cultures, communicating with a lower eye gaze is

Discussion Board 10 - ECO2013 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Discussion Board 10 - ECO2013 - Essay Example According to a report published by Prezi, a loaf of bread in the 1950s costs around 12 to 14 cents while in 2012, it costs around $2 to $4 per loaf (Mooney). That’s about a 200 to 350% increase in price from 1950 to 2012! Meanwhile, the US Department of Labor shows that the price of bread has decreased from $2 to $4 to $1.411 in January 2013, but this figure is still more expensive than the 1950 prices. One may be shocked at the increase in the price of bread if one looks at actual prices of the commodity. But what few people realize is that 2013 prices of commodities cannot be compared directly to prices in the 1950s because of the differences in the economic conditions in these two time periods. For one, gross domestic income is different; country population sharing the gross domestic income is also different. Hence, in order to determine whether prices of commodities have actually increased (hence leading to lesser capability to purchase the same bundle of goods previously purchased), there is a need to look at the overall state of the economy. This is best explained by Michael Sivy in his article for Time Magazine. Sivy says, â€Å"Price hikes for a particular item here or there don’t qualify as inflation. If one thing gets more expensive but something else gets cheaper, that’s what economists call a relative price change†. Such condition does not signal th at it has become more difficult for citizens to purchase items they need. Meanwhile, Sivy says that inflation is an increase in prices across the board which can impact consumers as well as businesses. With high inflation, businesses find it more expensive to produce the same amount of goods it used to produce. If a business were to survive, it can choose either to cut down its production, or to increase its costs of production. In both situations, it could affect the overall economy as it translates to over all

Health promotion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Health promotion - Essay Example For instance, the organization sets standards which helps to safeguard public safety in terms of nutrition or quality preventative medicine. Thirdly, the WHO role is to articulate on the ethical plus evidence-based health promotion strategy options, through provision of technical support, promoting change, and constructing sustainable institutional capabilities. Thus, the organization eases technical support to nations even as it monitors and disseminates progress on public health needs, while assisting in political mobilization and financial support. The other role of WHO in health promotion is to scan and report on any international outbreak alerts even as it institutes response networks in preparation for any form of outbreaks. Accordingly, the organization helps national authorities together with local communities in strengthening their overall capability to manage all forms of crises. This is more so through guaranteeing effective and well-timed action when it comes to tackling public health concerns. The organization ensures local health structures are operating effectively and efficiently, and if not to mitigate against the outcomes of a particular public health crisis. Therefore, the WHO is involved in monitoring global health situation while assessing the changing health trends (World Health Organization, 2013, para 3). Educational Authorities The role of national Education Authority in the delivery of health promotion is based on the 1998 strategy framework referred to as ‘Saving lives – Our Healthier Nation’ (National Health Service, 2013, para 3). Thus, the roles of educational authorities does not just involve highlighting public health through personal behaviour change or lifestyle change, but also through health improvement with a strong emphasis on the wider social, monetary and environmental determinant of wellbeing. Their main responsibility is to research and broadcast facts and information regarding health improvement. Se condly, education authorities are involved in providing advice on creating and implementing of health standards while developing the capability and competence of personnel working on health enhancement. Thirdly, they are responsible for fostering skills and programs required for effective team healthcare, such as interdisciplinary team education for learners in nursing, and social work. Therefore, their job is to place a duty on educational institutions to ensure that they promote children and learners mental, emotional, and social as well as their physical health. This is not just through the creation of curriculums which have a holistic view to health and wellbeing, but also through the promotion of NHS nutrition, public health awareness and expertise in planning and deliverance of good lifestyle behaviors in schools (Ewles, 2006, p.29) Social workers Social workers also play a huge role in the delivery of health promotion. Firstly, they are involved in defining evidence?pedestal interventions that do not just focus on individual level care, but also community level care (Payne, 2005, p. 217). For instance, applying teaching and counselling in addressing lifestyle diseases like obesity or chronic illnesses. Secondly, social workers are mandated to Increase communities and individuals protective health

The Baron Finance Company Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Baron Finance Company - Coursework Example Kendall the court ruled that both parties were to suffer the losses.Advice For the company to overcome the capacity constraint in future and achieve efficiency in operations without the indication of space constraints, the manager should begin by carrying out proper building analysis to ensure that the space is ample for its operations. On the other hand, the company can obtain funds from various sources that are appropriate and obtain a building with enough space for all the workers.With the losses incurred in mind, everybody within the organization should direct their efforts towards restoring the finances lost during the transition period. Moreover, costs may be cut by minimizing trivial expenses as a way of reinstating the company’s financial position. All departments under finance should be given a role in the activity to ensure that high interconnectedness between the departments is achieved. In this way, it will be easy to eliminate the constraints bit by bit until the system is realigned as desired.Case lawThe law in this case involves intentional deception or ‘Antitrust’ business law, which highlights that the finance department needs to be entrusted with honest personalities. In this case both parties are involved in fraud because they cohere to personal motives mired with dishonesty. Application This law is applicable in that the company employs somebody who refused the job previously hence mistrust arises like in the case McNally v. United State. According to (Clemency, 2002), it is notable how fraud leads to losses in the hands of a ‘competent manager.’ Additionally, the investor is known to be deceitful and an irredeemable social climber who uses any tactic for selfish gains consequently, the company experiences losses that may be avoided. Advice The company should carry out employment procedures appropriately to obtain an employee who is experienced and has adequate expertise to commit to the job. The person shoul d be trustworthy, honest and selfless in order to strive towards achieving organization objectives. In this manner, the person in charge will be able to manage the organization appropriately especially in following up any small inconsistence especially in the finance department. This is for the sole reason that the losses involved are greatest and thus the need to control and prevent fraud as soon as any suspicions are made. Before making any legal move, a fraud examiner should be involved to follow up the inconsistencies keenly in order to establish a strong basis of evidence in regards to the nature of fraud in question. The little indicators identified may lead to greater realizations of fraud masterminds within the organization that may have operated for a long period without suspicion. Therefore, a small indicator should not be ignored because it is a guideline to more evidence when closely examined (Dyson & McKenzie, 1996). 3. Case The case presented is poor human resource man agement. The scenario is between Casati and the Gosia’s business strategy analyst. Law The law applicable is such a circumstance is ‘Foreign Workers & Employee Eligibility’ law. The analyst in this case is careless. This circumstance is likened with the case of Brown v. Kendall. Application The law relates to the organization since negligence is observed in the situation where the business strategic analyst fails to read the entire report hence leaving out the conclusion and forecast

Reflective writing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 2

Reflective writing - Essay Example Each one of them has its importance to understand the whole concept of human health (Jasper, 2003). Each of those subjects has their different goals to make a student understand the objectives in a specific way. For example, I learnt the significance of blood tests and its relation with the physiology of the patient. I learnt about various diseases and disorders in my patients through in-depth study of pathology. During my course of studies, I have observed that sometimes nurses can unearth what a doctor fails to discover within a patient. Clinical experience further polishes a student. It enables a nurse to understand the practical and research based approach of this profession (Neal, 2003). During my course of studies, I have learnt the role and responsibilities assigned to a nurse in a typical healthcare setting. Nurses are focused to deliver quality care services to the patient. Nurses are the key persons behind formulating a care plan for the patient. My courses have enabled me to become a bridge between a patient and a doctor. My studies have helped to develop a sheer knowledge on different diseases and how a doctor responds to his patient (it also includes the treatment), knowledge on different kinds of drugs, knowledge of nursing care and how as a nurse I have to respond to my patients. My studies have also taught me how to make the decisions as a nurse, how to respond to your setting and how to prioritize and organize your responsibilities. In my opinion, nursing is an art as well as a science. It is an art as it helps me as a nurse to seek different innovative ways to provide care to my patients emotionally and physically as well as it becomes a science when I have to treat my patients using different medical techniques and drugs. Basic nursing techniques are the core of this course which were taught to me in the most professional manner. During the years of progressing as a professional nurse, I have witnessed that it is important for a nurse to deve lop therapeutic relations with the patients. For a nurse, it is highly important to maintain a close relation with the patients based on trust and respect (McHugh, 2000). Secondly, as a professional nurse I believe that nurses should know the art of communication and interaction with their patients. My course subject related to the study of behavioral sciences and human psychology has helped me to interact, understand and communicate effectively with my patients. It is important that nurses should focus on their interaction and communication skills when establishing therapeutic relations with the patients. According to Cutcliff (2005), nurses should emphasize on establishing increased interactions with their patients which as a result, increases their confidence, independence and competency as a professional nurse. As a result, as a professional nurse and a part of quality healthcare system, I am more focused on developing communication and interpersonal skills with my patients and their families. I have observed that patients feel more relax and confident with those nurses who make them feel comfortable even in pain and suffering. To make a patient trust you, it is highly important that you should know the art of communication which will help you to secure the trust of your patients (Nichols, 1993). As a professional nurse, I believe that there is a need to focus more on how the relationship between a patient and a

Social Construct According to Locke Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Social Construct According to Locke - Term Paper Example For man to have absolute authority over his fellow human beings, he must enter into a common agreement with them (D'Agostino 56). This paper will elaborate how different philosophers had different ideas on theories of social contract. It is believed that, social contract is a philosophy on its own. An agreement exists between politicians and their constituents. The social contract theory is correctly associated the modern, political and moral theories. Philosophers who have had different theories on the social contract include; Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, Aristotle and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. These philosophers are well known for their influential theories on the social contract. The dominant theories among these philosophers lie within the political and moral theories. These theories regained a kind of philosophical momentum as time elapsed. Recently, more philosophers have added their contributions on the social contract theories. The latest entrants being race-conscious and feminist philosophers, they have contributed significantly to the theories. They argue that the social contract theory is an incomplete picture of the political and moral lives. One of the greatest philosophers was Socrates and he made a very compelling argument. He was supporting the idea of him remaining in prison so that he could face death penalty and not escape the city of Greece as many people would have thought. He embraced the laws of Athens and he even personified them. He felt that he had to obey the entire laws because they had made him whom he was (Mandel 60). He believed that the laws were made to be followed by every individual. Socrates believed that laws were made by their fellow human beings and therefore had to be followed to the latter. In this example, social contract between people is said to be the laws that govern most people. These laws state how people should relate with each other. Plato was also another great philosopher. He is famous for his well-known dialogue R epublic. In this dialogue, the social contract theory is well represented at its best. In his second book, he tries to explore the real meaning of justice. Plato believed that injustices that are meted against fellow human beings were quite unfair. He explains that justice is as a result of conventional laws and agrees that human beings make in order to avoid atrocities against each other. According to Plato, he believes that men submit themselves to the very tenets of convention of justice. They do this simply because they have the feeling of committing injustice and impunity against their fellow human being. The social contract theory is elaborated in this instance because we find that there is a common agreement between the people and the judicial system simply put, the rule of law has to be strictly adhered to. On the other hand, Socrates rejects this view. He says that justice worth having and man is just a happy person. He believes that justice has value and that people should not just take it on its surface value. Thomas Hobbes was another great philosopher who lived in the England. He lived to witness the English civil war that was waged between the years 1642 and 1648. To explain this war, he vividly remembers the war was between the supporters and the monarchy. The king preferred the monarch type of rule. On the other hand, the parliamentarians demanded more power and wanted democratic institutions.

Assessment Of Learning Essay Example for Free

Assessment Of Learning Essay Assessment of learning refers to strategies designed to confirm what students know, demonstrate whether or not they have met curriculum outcomes or the goals of their individualized programs, or to certify proficiency and make decisions about students’ future programs or placements. It is designed to provide evidence of achievement to parents, other educators, the students themselves, and sometimes to outside groups (e. g. , employers, other educational institutions). Assessment of learning is the assessment that becomes public and results in statements or symbols about how well students are learning. It often  contributes to pivotal decisions that will affect students’ futures. It is important, then, that the underlying logic and measurement of assessment of learning be credible and defensible. TEACHERS’ ROLES IN ASSESSMENT OF LEARNING Because the consequences of assessment of learning are often far-reaching and affect students seriously, teachers have the responsibility of reporting student learning accurately and fairly, based on evidence obtained from a variety of contexts and applications. Effective assessment of learning requires that teachers provide †¢ a rationale for undertaking a particular assessment of learning at a particular  point in time †¢ clear descriptions of the intended learning †¢ processes that make it possible for students to demonstrate their competence and skill †¢ a range of alternative mechanisms for assessing the same outcomes †¢ public and defensible reference points for making judgements Rethinking Classroom Assessment with Purpose in Mind. †¢55 The purpose of assessment that typically comes at the end of a course or unit of instruction is to determine the extent to which the instructional goals have been achieved and for grading or certification of student achievement. (Linn and Gronlund, Measurement and Assessment in Teaching ) Reflection: Think about an example of assessment of learning in your own teaching and try to develop it further as you read this chapter. 56 †¢ Rethinking Classroom Assessment with Purpose in Mind Chapter 5 †¢ transparent approaches to interpretation †¢ descriptions of the assessment process †¢ strategies for recourse in the event of disagreement about the decisions With the help of their teachers, students can look forward to assessment of learning tasks as occasions to show their competence, as well as the depth and breadth of their learning. PLANNING ASSESSMENT OF LEARNING. The purpose of assessment of learning is to measure, certify, and report the level  of students’ learning, so that reasonable decisions can be made about students. There are many potential users of the information: †¢ teachers (who can use the information to communicate with parents about their children’s proficiency and progress) †¢ parents and students (who can use the results for making educational and vocational decisions) †¢ potential employers and post-secondary institutions (who can use the information to make decisions about hiring or acceptance) †¢ principals, district or divisional administrators, and teachers (who can use the information to review and revise programming). Assessment of learning requires the collection and interpretation of information about students’ accomplishments in important curricular areas, in ways that represent the nature and complexity of the intended learning. Because genuine learning for understanding is much more than just recognition or recall of facts or algorithms, assessment of learning tasks need to enable students to show the complexity of their understanding. Students need to be able to apply key concepts, knowledge, skills, and attitudes in ways that are authentic and consistent with current thinking in the knowledge domain. What am I  assessing? Why am I assessing? Rethinking Classroom Assessment with Purpose in Mind †¢ 57 Assessment of Learning In assessment of learning, the methods chosen need to address the intended curriculum outcomes and the continuum of learning that is required to reach the outcomes. The methods must allow all students to show their understanding and produce sufficient information to support credible and defensible statements about the nature and quality of their learning, so that others can use the results in appropriate ways. Assessment of learning methods include not only tests and examinations, but  also a rich variety of products and demonstrations of learning—portfolios, exhibitions, performances, presentations, simulations, multimedia projects, and a variety of other written, oral, and visual methods (see Fig. 2. 2, Assessment Tool Kit, page 17). What assessment method should I use? Graduation Portfolios Graduation portfolios are a requirement for graduation from British Columbia and Yukon Senior Years schools. These portfolios comprise collections (electronic or printed) of evidence of students’ accomplishments at school, home, and in the community, including demonstrations of  their competence in skills that are not measured in examinations. Worth four credits toward graduation, the portfolios begin in Grade 10 and are completed by the end of Grade 12. The following are some goals of graduation portfolios: †¢ Students will adopt an active and reflective role in planning, managing, and assessing their learning. †¢ Students will demonstrate learning that complements intellectual development and course-based learning. †¢ Students will plan for successful transitions beyond Grade 12. Graduation portfolios are prepared at the school level and are based on specific Ministry criteria and standards. Students use the criteria and standards as guides for planning, collecting, and presenting their evidence, and for self-assessing. Teachers use the criteria and standards to assess student evidence and assign marks. There are three major components of a graduation portfolio: 1. Portfolio Core (30 percent of the mark). Students must complete requirements in the following six portfolio organizers: arts and design (respond to an art, performance, or design work); community involvement and responsibility (participate co-operatively and respectfully in a  service activity); education and career planning (complete a graduation transition plan); employability skills (complete 30 hours of work or volunteer experience); information technology (use information technology skills); personal health (complete 80 hours of moderate to intense physical activity). 2. Portfolio Choice (50 percent of the mark). Students expand on the above areas, choosing additional evidence of their achievements. 3. Portfolio Presentation (20 percent of the mark). Students celebrate their learning and reflect at the end of the portfolio process. ( Portfolio Assessment and Focus Areas: A Program Guide  ) 58 †¢ Rethinking Classroom Assessment with Purpose in Mind Chapter 5 Assessment of learning needs to be very carefully constructed so that the information upon which decisions are made is of the highest quality. Assessment of learning is designed to be summative, and to produce defensible and accurate descriptions of student competence in relation to defined outcomes and, occasionally, in relation to other students’ assessment results. Certification of students’ proficiency should be based on a rigorous, reliable, valid, and equitable process of assessment and evaluation. Reliability  Reliability in assessment of learning depends on how accurate, consistent, fair, and free from bias and distortion the assessment is. Teachers might ask themselves: †¢ Do I have enough information about the learning of this particular student to make a definitive statement? †¢ Was the information collected in a way that gives all students an equal chance to show their learning? †¢ Would another teacher arrive at the same conclusion? †¢ Would I make the same decision if I considered this information at another time or in another way? Reference Points Typically, the reference points for assessment of learning are the learning  outcomes as identified in the curriculum that make up the course of study. Assessment tasks include measures of these learning outcomes, and a student’s performance is interpreted and reported in relation to these learning outcomes. In some situations where selection decisions need to be made for limited positions (e. g. , university entrance, scholarships, employment opportunities), assessment of learning results are used to rank students. In such norm-referenced situations, what is being measured needs to be clear, and the way it is being measured needs to be transparent to anyone who might use the assessment  results. Validity Because assessment of learning results in statements about students’ proficiency in wide areas of study, assessment of learning tasks must reflect the key knowledge, concepts, skills, and dispositions set out in the curriculum, and the statements and inferences that emerge must be upheld by the evidence collected. How can I ensure quality in this assessment process? Rethinking Classroom Assessment with Purpose in Mind †¢ 59 Assessment of Learning Record-Keeping Whichever approaches teachers choose for assessment of learning, it is their records that provide details about the quality of the measurement. Detailed records of the various components of the assessment of learning are essential, with a description of what each component measures, with what accuracy and against what criteria and reference points, and should include supporting evidence related to the outcomes as justification. When teachers keep records that are detailed and descriptive, they are in an excellent position to provide meaningful reports to parents and others. Merely a symbolic representation of a student’s accomplishments (e. g. , a letter grade or percentage) is inadequate. Reports to parents and others should identify the  intended learning that the report covers, the assessment methods used to gather the supporting information, and the criteria used to make the judgement. Feedback to Students Because assessment of learning comes most often at the end of a unit or learning cycle, feedback to students has a less obvious effect on student learning than assessment for learning and assessment as learning. Nevertheless, students do Ho w can I use the information from this assessment? Guidelines for Grading. 1. Use curriculum learning outcomes or some clustering of these (e. g. , strands) as the basis for grading. 2.Make sure that the meaning of grades comes from clear descriptions of curriculum outcomes and standards. If students achieve the outcome, they get the grade. (NO bell curves! ) 3. Base grades only on individual achievement of the targeted learning outcomes. Report effort, participation, and attitude, for example, separately, unless they are a stated curriculum outcome. Any penalties (e. g. , for late work, absences), if used, should not distort achievement or motivation. 4. Sample student performance using a variety of methods. Do not include all assessments in grades. Provide ongoing feedback on formative  performance using words, rubrics, or checklists, not grades. 5. Keep records in pencil so they can be updated easily to take into consideration more recent achievement. Provide second-chance assessment opportunities (or more). Students should receive the highest, most consistent mark, not an average mark for multiple opportunities. 6. Crunch numbers carefully, if at all. Consider using the median, mode, or statistical measures other than the mean. Weight components within the final grade to ensure that the intended importance is given to each learning outcome. 7. Make sure that each assessment meets quality standards (e.g. , there should be clear targets, clear purpose, appropriate target-method match, appropriate sampling, and absence of bias and distortion) and is properly recorded and maintained (e. g. , in portfolios, at conferences, on tracking sheets). 8. Discuss and involve students in grading at the beginning and throughout the teaching and learning process. (Adapted from O’Connor, How to Grade for Learning ) Resource: Marzano, Transforming Classroom Grading 60 †¢ Rethinking Classroom Assessment with Purpose in Mind Chapter 5 rely on their marks and on teachers’ comments as indicators of their level of  success, and to make decisions about their future learning endeavours. Differentiating Learning In assessment of learning, differentiation occurs in the assessment itself. It would make little sense to ask a near-sighted person to demonstrate driving proficiency without glasses. When the driver uses glasses, it is possible for the examiner to get an accurate picture of the driver’s ability, and to certify him or her as proficient. In much the same way, differentiation in assessment of learning requires that the necessary accommodations be in place that allow students to make the particular learning visible.  Multiple forms of assessment offer multiple pathways for making student learning transparent to the teacher. A particular curriculum outcome requirement, such as an understanding of the social studies notion of conflict, for example, might be demonstrated through visual, oral, dramatic, or written representations. As long as writing were not an explicit component of the outcome, students who have difficulties with written language, for example, would then have the same opportunity to demonstrate their learning as other students. Although assessment of learning does not always lead teachers to differentiate  instruction or resources, it has a profound effect on the placement and promotion of students and, consequently, on the nature and differentiation of the future instruction and programming that students receive. Therefore, assessment results need to be accurate and detailed enough to allow for wise recommendations. Reporting There are many possible approaches to reporting student proficiency. Reporting assessment of learning needs to be appropriate for the audiences for whom it is intended, and should provide all of the information necessary for them to make reasoned decisions. Regardless of the form of the reporting,however, it should be honest, fair, and provide sufficient detail and contextual information so that it can be clearly understood. Traditional reporting, which relies only on a student’s average score, provides little information about that student’s skill development or knowledge. One alternate mechanism, which recognizes many forms of success and provides a profile of a student’s level of performance on an emergent-proficient continuum, is the parent- student-teacher conference. This forum provides parents with a great deal of information, and reinforces students’ responsibility for their learning. The Communication System Continuum: From Symbols to Conversations (O’Connor, How to Grade for Learning ) Grades Report cards (grades and brief comments) Infrequent informal communications Parent-teacher interviews Report cards with expanded comments Frequent informal communication Student-involved conferencing Student-led conferencing Reflection: What forms do your reports of student proficiency take? How do these differ according to audience? Rethinking Classroom Assessment with Purpose in Mind †¢ 61 Assessment of Learning An Example of Assessment of Learning  Elijah was interested in assessing student mastery of both the modern and the traditional skills required for survival in the Nunavut environment where he teaches. The overarching theme of survival is taught in the early grades and culminates at the senior level in a course delivered in Inuktitut. Students learn how to take care of themselves and others, and how to adapt what they know to the situation at hand. Survival requires not only skills and knowledge, but also a concept the Inuit people call qumiutit, or the ability in an emergency situation to pull out of stored memory information that will enable a person to cope, not panic. Traditionally, this was learned in a holistic manner, grounded in Inuit traditional guiding principles that were nurtured and developed from birth, and taught and reinforced in daily living. Throughout the term, Elijah took his students to an outdoor area to practise on-the-land survival activities, using both traditional and modern methods. He always took with him a knowledgeable Elder who could give the students the information they needed to store away in case of emergency. The students watched demonstrations of a skill a number of times. Each student then practised on his or her own, as Elijah and the Elder observed and assisted. Elijah knew that students need to have a high level of expertise in the survival skills appropriate for the northern natural environment. Elijah assessed each student on each survival skill (e. g. , making fire the traditional way, tying the knots required for the qamutik cross-pieces on a sled). What am I assessing? I am assessing each student’s performance of traditional and modern survival skills. Why am I assessing? I want to know which survival skills each s tudent has mastered and their readiness to s urvive in the natural environment. 62 †¢ Rethinking Classroom Assessment with Purpose in Mind  Chapter 5 Elijah knew that the best way to determine if students have mastered the skills is to have them perform them. When students believed they were ready, Elijah created an opportunity for them to demonstrate the mastered skill to a group of Elders, who then (individually, then in consensus) determined if the performance was satisfactory. A student’s competence in a survival skill is often demonstrated by an end product. For example, competence in knot tying is demonstrated by a knot that serves its purpose, and competence in fire building is demonstrated by a fire that is robust. As the Elders judged each student’s performance of the skills, Elijah recorded the results. He shared the information with each student and his or her parents in a final report, as shown here. Ho w can I use the informatio n from this assessment? Now that I know which skills each of the students has mastered, I can report this information to the s tudents and their parents. I can use this information to identify a learning path for each s tudent. How can I ensure quality in this assessment process? Ensuring quality with this approach involves clear criteria: either the student performs the skill s uccessfully or does not. I need to provide adequate opportunities for the s tudent to demonstrate the skills under various conditions and at various times. What assessment method should I use? I need an approach in which students can demonstrate the traditional survival skills that they learned. The method I choose should also allow me to identify which skills they did not master. Rethinking Classroom Assessment with Purpose in Mind †¢ 63 Assessment of Learning Shelters: †¢ emergency shelters †¢ igloo building4 †¢ qamaq5 †¢ tents Transportation needs: †¢ making the knots required for the qamutik cross pieces on a sled †¢ building a kayak/umiak. †¢ fixing a snowmobile (spark plugs, repairing track, drive belt) †¢ keeping a boat seaworthy Navigational issues: †¢ reading the land †¢ reading the sky †¢ understanding seasonal variations †¢ reading inuksuit †¢ using GPS †¢ map reading Preparation for land travel: †¢ packing a qamutiq (sled) †¢ load, balance †¢ necessities: snow knife, rope, food, water, heat source †¢ letting others know where you are going †¢ necessary tools, supplies, snowmobile parts, fuel †¢ using communication devices Food sources: †¢ plants and their nutritional properties †¢ hunting, skinning, and cutting up seal, caribou, etc. †¢ kinds of food to take on the land,  and their nutritional properties ____________________ 4. Expertise in igloo building includes understanding of types of snow, the shape and fit of blocks, and the use of a snow- knife. 5. A qamaq is a rounded house, built of scrap wood or bones, and covered with skins, cardboard, or canvas. Report on Survival Skills Student: _______________________________________________ Date: _______________________ Traditional Survival Skills Modern Survival Skills Adaptability to the Seasons Attitude Success Next Steps 1) Skills Building a fire / means of keeping warm: †¢ fuel sources †¢ getting a spark †¢ propane heaters, stoves †¢ clothing. 2) Relationship to the Seasons Assessing conditions / recognizing danger signs: †¢ seasonal changes †¢ land changes †¢ water changes †¢ wind changes †¢ weather changes Climatic changes: †¢ weather changes and how this affects the land and water †¢ knowledge of animals and their characteristics and behaviours 3) Attitudinal Influences (Having the right attitude to learn) †¢ respect for the environment (cleaning up a campsite upon leaving, dealing with the remains of an animal, not over-hunting/fishing) †¢ respect for Elders and their knowledge †¢ ability to learn from Elders 64 †¢ Rethinking Classroom Assessment with Purpose in Mind Chapter 5. Elijah’s report identified which of the students had mastered the specified skills required to survive in the Nunavut environment. It outlined other areas (such as adaptability to the seasons and attitudinal influences) about which peers, parents, and family members would need to provide input before a comprehensive assessment could be made. The assessment also identified those students not yet ready to survive in the natural environment. But the Elders did not stop working with the students who did not reach mastery. Elders see learning as an individual path in which skills, knowledge, and attitudes are acquired along the way. If a particular skill was beyond the capability of a student, the Elders identified other areas where that person could contribute to the common good of the community, and was accepted for the gifts he or she brought to the group. In this way, the Elders helped Elijah differentiate the learning path for each of his students. SUMMARY OF PLANNING ASSESSMENT OF LEARNING Assessment for Learning Assessment as Learning Assessment of Learning Why Assess? to enable teachers to determine next steps in advancing student learning to guide and provide opportunities for each student to monitor and critically reflect on his or her learning, and  identify next steps Assess What? Each student’s progress and learning needs in relation to the curricular outcomes each student’s thinking about his or her learning, what strategies he or she uses to support or challenge that learning, and the mechanisms he or she uses to adjust and advance his or her learning What Methods? a range of methods in different modes that make students’ skills and understanding visible a range of methods in different modes that elicit students’ learning and metacognitive processes Ensuring Quality †¢ accuracy and consistency of observations and interpretations of student learning. †¢ clear, detailed learning expectations †¢ accurate, detailed notes for descriptive feedback to each student †¢ accuracy and consistency of student’s self-reflection, self-monitoring, and self-adjustment †¢ engagement of the student in considering and challenging his or her thinking †¢ students record their own learning Using the Information †¢ provide each student with accurate descriptive feedback to further his or her learning †¢ differentiate instruction by continually checking where each student is in relation to the curricular outcomes †¢ provide parents or guardians with descriptive feedback about student  learning and ideas for support. †¢ provide each student with accurate descriptive feedback that will help him or her develop independent learning habits †¢ have each student focus on the task and his or her learning (not on getting the right answer) †¢ provide each student with ideas for adjusting, rethinking, and articulating his or her learning †¢ provide the conditions for the teacher and student to discuss alternatives †¢ students report about their learning Rethinking Classroom Assessment with Purpose in Mind. †¢ 65 Assessment of Learning to certify or inform parents or others of student’s proficiency in  relation to curriculum learning outcomes the extent to which students can apply the key concepts, knowledge, skills, and attitudes related to the curricular outcomes a range of methods in different modes that assess both product and process †¢ accuracy, consistency, and fairness of judgements based on high-quality information †¢ clear, detailed learning expectations †¢ fair and accurate summative reporting †¢ indicate each student’s level of learning †¢ provide the foundation for discussions on placement or promotion †¢ report fair, accurate, and detailed information that can be used to decide the next steps in a student’s learning.

The Delivery Of Social Work Services

The Delivery Of Social Work Services The second part of the report concentrates on to understand process of ageing. It will then assess the role and function of social work within wider socio-political policy context especially in terms of poverty and inequalities. Finally it will be demonstrated how the identified issues may inform the policy and organisational context and the points raised will be summarised in the conclusion. According to World Health Organisation, most developed world countries have accepted the age of 65 years as a definition of elderly or older person. (WHO: 2012) However, in the United Kingdom the Friendly Societies Act 1972 S7(1)(e) defines old age as, any age after fifty, where pension schemes mostly are used age 60 or 65 years for eligibility. (Scottish Government: 1972) Ageism can be defined as process of discrimination and stereotyping against people because of their age. It affects many institutions in society and has a number of dimensions such as job discrimination, loss of status, stereotyping and dehumanization. Ageism is about assuming that all older people are the same despite different life histories, needs and expectation. (Phillipson: 2011) According to Erikson (1995) psychosocial stages of life older age has been defined as the period of integrity versus despair. This stage involves the acceptance and reflection on ones life. The authors describe older people as a group of marginal concern that has moved to one of central importance in social work profession (Phillipson: 2011) This is caused by the speed of demographical change that is most remarkable in its expand. The number of older people is increasing both in absolute numbers and as a proportion of the total population. The ageing of the population indicates two main factors such as the downward trend in the birth rate and improvements in life expectancy. (Phillipson: 2011) In Scotland in 2010 there were an estimated 1.047 million older people age over 60, where older people are one fifth of Scottish population. (Age Scotland: 2012) In the last hundred years Scotlands life expectancy has doubled from 40 in 1900, to just over 74 for males and just over 79 for females in 2004. By 2031 the number of people aged 50+ is projected to rise by 28% and the number aged 75+ is projected to increase by 75% (All our future: 2007) It has been estimated that in the UK in 2005, 683,597 people suffered from dementia, the number is expected to triple by 2051 to 1,735,087 people. (Alzheimers research trust: 2010)The issue require to be deeply analysed in terms of how society will be able to respond effectively to the complex needs of older people. Look beneath the surface the needs and issues of older people The policy All our future (Scottish Government: 2007) indicates the age over fifty as a stage where life circumstances start to change in ways that can be significant for the future. An example of this can be; children leave home, change in working patterns, people have less work and more time for themselves and perhaps more money. It is worth pointing out that caring responsibilities for elderly relatives at this stage can also increase. The time fifty upwards is a time when physical health can deteriorate causing possible health problems such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis or coronary heart disease. What is more, the state of health after that time decrease substantially and become greater in its extend. People must face changes in appearance such as wrinkles, hair lost or change of hair colour to grey. In addition, they physical state deteriorates and they are not as fit as they used to be. Form psychological point of view this must be difficult to accept it. However, ageing can also concerns some psychological effects such as changes in memory function, decline in intellectual abilities or even memory loss. As a result of a degenerative condition of brains nerve cells or brain disorders many people may suffer dementia, Alzheimer or Parkinson disease. Wilson et al. (2008) who draws attention to physical, biological and psychological effects of the ageing, pointing out that ageing is not itself a disease but some specific diseases may be associated with this process. (Wilson: 2008) Social work underwent fundamental changes from the 1960s following broader ideological, political and economic developments. To understand the current role of social work within society and wider policy framework, particularly with older people, it is important to analyse the past socio-political and economic trends that have reflected on contemporary practice. By the 1960s, more attention was beginning to be paid to the social consequences of capitalism that started to be seen as the economic order of an unequal and unfair society. The strong critique of that system is known as radical social work that grew on the ideology of Marxism. (Howe: 2008) The publication of the Kilbrandon (1964) consequently led to introduction of Social Work (Scotland) Act 1968, which embedded social work firmly within state sector with the voluntary sector as complementary. (Ferguson Woodward) Social work wanted to be seen as unified profession that offered generic services, to overcome earlier fragmenta tion and overspecialisation of services. Social workers were obligated by law to assess needs and promote social welfare by providing services. However, the government of Margaret Thatcher began to weaken state welfare responsibilities to help people in need leading to the major ideological shift in 1980s called neoliberalism. As a result Barclay Report (1982) intended to clarify the role and task of social workers employed within statutory or voluntary sector, the later Griffiths Report (1988) were similar to Barclay Report in terms of promoting greater choice, participation and independence of service user and carers. However, neoliberalism undermines the role of welfare professionals, allow the rich become richer and marginalise the poorest and most vulnerable individuals. Woodward and Ferguson (2011) argue that neoliberal trend has been continued under New labour government, leading to managerialism and bureaucratisation. Therefore, contemporary practice is drawn by extreme pres sure through the forces of marketisation, managerialism and consumerism, that led to profession dominated by stress, frustration and strongly focus on meeting deadlines. The labour government has also been driven by the development associated with consumerists ideas such as personalisation that place service user at the centre of service design and delivery or direct payments that emphasise independence and individual choice through giving service user their own money to buy own services. For a long time neoliberal economic and social policies in the UK speculated a very different concept of what social work should be about. The Changing Lives report of the 21st Century Social Work Review (Scottish Government: 2006) has brought significant shift within social work polices through an expression of dissatisfaction of social work that was mainly caused by lack of opportunity for relationship based work with service user. The policy has reshaped social work practice towards providing social workers with additional space to develop good social work practice. There have been initiatives to improve recruitment and increase professionalism and standards within workforce as well as improve integration in the planning and provision of social work services. Integration has been developed through Modernising Community Care: An Action Plan (1998) and Community Care Joint Future (2000) that introduce Single Shared Assessment (SSA). In Scotland Joint Future is the driving policy on joint working between local authorities and the NHS. The other key policy themes are personalisation, self-directed support, early intervention and prevention as well as mixed economy of care on the grounds of more effective partnership. (Scottish Parliament: 2008) Another significant report that brought about change in policy and later in Scottish legislation is the Sutherland Report (1999) that provided free personal and nursing car e on the basis of assessed needs. (Petch: 2008) The above review of social work policy framework is a good illustration of constantly changing role and function of social work. Social work operates within socio-political framework of constantly developing policies and legislation of health and social care. The reality and ideology constantly has changed people and society faceing new challenges. Social work makes a key contribution to tackle these issues by working with other agencies to deliver coordinated support and to increase the wellbeing of older people. The critical analyse of needs of older people and current issues in the delivery of social work services. The first issues when working with older people is partnership of health and social care within four main areas: assessment, care management, intermediate care and hospital discharge. (Wilson: 2008) The main problem is tight budget this is in particular importance especially in statutory setting. (Wilson: 2008) The problem increases when local authority must, as normally is a case, work in collaboration with other bodies. This raises an external question who are going to pay for services? That causes unnecessary delays and constraints. One might expect that new Integration of Adult Health and Social Care Bill (Scottish Government: 2012) will resolve problem by the joint budget and equal responsibilities of Health Boards and Local Authorities. Wilson et al. stresses the importance of rationing services in social work due to low budget that lead to delays in provision of services and lack of time to develop more creative forms of practice. The next issue is the assessment process that is seen as balance between needs and resources. A major element during assessment is the relationship with service user and appropriate methods of communication to understand and be understood. Practitioner must take the time to get know the older person and resist pressure from other professional to do a quick assessment. (Mackay: 2008) The problem of autonomy and protection is the other one in relation to work with older people. This raises the question of capacity, consent and the deprivation of liberty of older people. This group of service users is often a subject of legislation that deprives their rights and liberty, this is because they are likely to be affected by cognitive disorder such as dementia. The term dementia include Alzheimers disease, vascular and unspecified dementia, as well as dementia in other diseases such as Parkinsons. It has been estimated that in the UK the number of patients diagnosed is 821,884, representing 1.3% of the UK population. (Alzheimers research trust: 2010) The assessment of incapacity or mental disorder is not straightforward and ethically and morally difficult for both service user and social worker. Social workers have to manage the balance between acting in accordance with the wishes of the individual and their best interest. It has been suggested by policy and legislation that the views and wishes of people expressed through self-assessment would remain at the heart of intervention. (Department of Health: 2005) The another issue is abuse of older that may have many forms and can be very severe in its extend. Older people are vulnerable to abuse or to not having their rights fully respected and protected. The problem came to public awareness not as long as few years ago. Despite the fact that legislation came into force through Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 it is estimated that elder abuse affects 22,700 people in the Scotland each year. (Age Scotland: 2012) Older people are a subject of physical, psychological abuse, neglect, sexual or financial harm, that normally takes place at home, in hospital, residential care or day centre. Age discrimination is next issue to consider around 24 per cent of older adults in the UK report experiencing age discrimination. (Age Scotland: 2012) The new NHS policy that came to force 1st of October this year, states that it is unlawful for service providers, policy makers and commissioners to discriminate, victimise, or harass a person because of age. A person will be protected when requesting and being provided with services. If anybody will be treated less favourably because of their age, they will be able to take organisations or individuals to court and may be awarded compensation. This mainly relates to health boards individual clinicians such as consultants, GPs or other health professionals. (Department of Health: 2012) Older people are disadvantaged based on the relatively low socio-political and cultural status in contemporary society. They are repeatedly presents as a drain on resources as they no longer actively contribute to grow of society. They do not work and do not pay taxes anymore. Older people are systematically disadvantaged by the place they occupy within society. Wilson et al. (2008: p. 620) rightly suggests that old age is socially constructed. A good example of this is retirement that makes people officially old and unavailable to work, despite factual physical and emotional state of the individual. Other forms of social construction that significantly affect the experience of old age is class, gender, race and ethnicity. (Wilson: 2008) An illustration of this can be statement that older people have much more in common with younger people from their class then they do with older people from other classes. (Philipson: 2011) Disadvantages and inequalities experiences during life can m agnified the process of ageing through differences in access to health facilities, health status and lifestyle that may influence life expectancy. There is no doubt that experience of ageing is subjective and depends on many factors but it seems to be a matter to consider class, gender and race at first place. When discussing poverty and inequalities the things that have to be in mind are issues of discrimination of older women who are less likely to have as a great pension as male due to the fact many women are paid a lower wage then men. Moreover, women tend to live longer than men so they are more vulnerable to live alone and in poverty. (Age UK: 2012) There are many forms of disadvantage associated with older people in poverty such as; low income, low wealth and pension, debts or financial difficulties, feel worse off, financial exclusion, material deprivation and cold home. The first three are experiences by around 20% of older people, half of older people experienced at least one of the nine forms of poverty described above, and 25% had two or more. A minority 3% suffered from three or more forms of poverty. (Age UK: 2012) In terms of ethnicity and race there are significant inequalities in the process of ageing. An illustration of this can be the black community of older people who are more likely to face greater level of poverty, live in poorer housing. In addition, they are more susceptible to physical and mental illness due to often heavy manual work, racism and cultural pressures. (Phillipson: 2011) Most of older people want to say at home as long as possible this is supported by policy All Our Future (Scottish Government: 2007) that helps people through services such as free personal care, telecare development programme, care and repairs services or travel scheme free bus passes. The policy aims to improve opportunities for older people, foster better understanding towards this group of service user, create better links between generation to work together and exchange experiences, to improve health and quality of life: promote well being and active life within community, improve care support and protection, housing and transport as well as promote lifelong learning. The role of social work in working with older people is described by Marshalls text (1990) and cited by Scottish Government (2005) It has been suggested that a key issues are: communication, including sensitive listening and awareness of non-verbal communication, taking time to assess needs always in the presence of service user. Supporting people in managing crises that arise through loss or change such as bereavement, mental health issues or physical constrains like illness or disability. Offer practical help and organise resources. Working with other professionals and people involve in the process of intervention and together combat ageism. Ageing can be defined as discrimination against older people m The current trends in adults social care have began through Green paper Independence, Well-being and Choice (Department of Health: 2005) and the subsequent White Paper , Our Health, Our Care, Our Say (Department of Health: 2006) these documents set out the agenda for future. This is based on the principle that service users should be able to have greater control over their own lives, with strategies that services deliver will be more personalised than uniform, this is referred to as personalisation. Personalisation enables the individual to participate and to be actively involved in the delivery of services. Personalisation also means that people become more involved in how services are designed by shaping and selecting services to receive to support that is most suited to them (Scottish Government: 2009) Personalisation is a wide term covering a range of approaches to providing individualised services, choice and control. The programme directly response to wants and wishes of servic e user regarding service provision. Personalisation consists of person centre approach, early intervention and prevention, is based on an empowering philosophy of choice and control. It shifts power from professionals to people who use services. (Department of Health: 2010) However, it could be argued that approaches extending service user control in realty can be seen as transferring risk and responsibilities form the local authority to the individual service user (Ferguson: 2007) Another option recently promoting by government is Self Directed Support (SDS), a Bill has been introduced into the Scottish Parliament last year and recently has passed stage three. The bill seeks to introduce legislative provision for SDS and the personalisation of services and to extend the provisions relating to direct payments. (Scottish Parliament: 2012) The SDS approach before has been brought into Parliament were reflected in many reports and policy initiatives such as: Changing Lives, Reshaping Care for Older People. SDS let people to make informed choices about the way support is provided, they can have greater control over how their needs are met, and by whom. Social worker working on behalf of local authority will have a duty to offer SDS if the individual met eligibility criteria. The four options to consider are: direct payment to the individual in order that that person will arrange own support, the person chooses the available support and local authority will make arr angement for services on behalf of that person, social worker will select support and make arrangement for provision, the last option is a mix of the above options. (IRISS: 2012) There is no doubt that the ideas of SDS are glorious because express a great opportunity for service user to expand their control over services provided. However, this raises a question of how many people will be ready to utilise option one of SDS, if a ordinary person who use services will have skills and knowledge to take responsibility for own care such as to employ own carers or personal assistance and to buy own services. One could envisage that it could be possible if the role of social worker will change from care management to brokerage and advocacy. The new model of care requires also to support communication, have experience in employment practice, manage record keeping and pay roll services. A potential care broker will provide assistance to obtain and manage a support package, drawing on individ ualised funding. It can be questioned if social workers who are mostly employed by local authority and accountable to statutory agencies are reliable to perform this task working across three sectors. Service User Involvement Dalrymple and Burke (2006) discuss issues that influence contemporary social work such as social justice, empowerment, partnership and minimal intervention. The service user participation has began in 1990 through NHS and Community Care Act. (Ray, 2012) There is still increasing acceptance that people who receive services should be seen as own experts in defining their own needs. This is in accordance with exchange model of assessment presented by Smile and Tuson et al. (1993), where social worker view the individuals as experts of own problems. The role of practitioner is to help service user to organise resources in order to reach goals that are define by the service user. Government policy addressing to older people highlights the importance of developing services that focus on maintaining independence, encouraging choice and promoting autonomy such as Independent living in Scotland (2011), Reshaping Care for Older People (2011), All our Future(2007). The policies highlights the i mportance of user participation in risk management and risk taking within independent community living for older adults. One of the action enhance independent living is direct payments. This has been seen as a way of improving choice and autonomy of older people. Social workers have a moral obligation to ensure that direct payment, when offered, do in fact provide better opportunity for this group of service user to meet their needs in creative way. (Ray: 2009) One may expect that active involvement and participation in service provision will have a crucial role not only in exercise more control and choice but also in challenging social exclusion. Shaping our lives is a notional independent user network that aims to make sure the voice of older people are heard so they have equal chance in defining outcomes in social care. (Crawford Walker: 2008) It could be argued that one of the main needs of older people is the importance of active listening of this group of service user, who are often because of age ignored or disregard. This is supported by Kydd (2009) who highlights how important it is for older people to feel that they are being listened too. In social work there is constant need to evidence based practice on the grounds of empirical knowledge that guide decision making process. An example of this can be three stages of theory cycle presented by Collinwood and Davies. (2011) There is no doubt evidence based practice is important but the view undermine relationship based practice that is equally important. Rightly Wilson (2008) refers to relationship-based as a main feature of social work practice that shape the nature and purpose of the intervention. It is a unique interaction between the service user and the practitioner that help to obtain more information and define the best way of intervention. A fundamental part of working with older people is to recognise and respond to the way in which they may be marginalized. An example can be the role of social worker as advocate that seek; to provide accurate information in relation to the services the individual is entitled and to enable the person to live where she/he wants to live. (Dalrymple Burke: 2006)

Essay on Metaphors for Death in Shakespeares Sonnet 73 -- Sonnet essa

Metaphors for Death in Shakespeare's Sonnet 73 William Shakespeare's "Sonnet 73: That Time of Year Thou Mayest in Me Behold" is a sonnet that examines the fears and anxieties that surround growing old and dying -- a topic that resonates within us all. Shakespeare's use of metaphor to illustrate decay and passing are striking, and sets a somber tone throughout. He uses the season of Fall, the coming of night, and the burning out of a flame as metaphors for old age and death, and then uses the last two lines to suggest that we should love and cherish life while we can. The first four lines of the sonnet reflect the changing of seasons, and the oncoming of Fall: Â   That time of year thou mayest in me behold, When yellow leaves, or none, or few do hang Upon those boughs which shake against the cold, Bare ruined choirs, where late the sweet birds sang. Â   Â   The season of Fall has often been used as a metaphor for the passing of time. The seasons of Spring and Summer -- the time of blooming flowers, vibrant colors, and long, hot days -- are gone. Fa...

Crytosporidia :: Essays Papers

Crytosporidia Life History: Once thought to be rare and host specific, Cryptosporidia is now believed to be one of the top three diarrheal causing pathogens in the world. Cryptosporidia muris was recognized in 1907 by E. E. Tyzer. Since then twenty (20) species of Cryptosporidium have been discovered and named although recently sixteen (16) of those twenty (20) have come under speculation due to recent cross-transmission studies. Cryptosporidia is a protozoan parasite which lives in the intestines and respiratory epitheliums of many types of animals including mammals, birds and reptiles. The disease caused by Cryptosporidia is known as Cryptosporidiosis. Cryptosporidia is found all over the world and is transmitted via fecal oral contact. Usually this is due to water contaminated by animal feces. Infected calves excrete up to 10 billion Cryptosporidium oocysts (infectious stage) per day. The infectious dose in humans is only 10-100. However, contaminated food or direct contact with feces can also cause infectio n. Microbial Characteristics: Cryptosporidia are small coccidian spore-forming protazoans. When in oocyst form they are 4-6 um in size. GRAPH Disease: Cryptosporidia are encountered and transmitted through fecal oral transmission. Once a host ingests an oocyst, sporozoites are released. The sporozoite then can enter the epithelial cells in the small intestine where it will develop into a trophozoite. Inside of a trophozoite, merozoites begin to form. When released, a merozoite can either infect another epithelial cell or it can evolve into a sexual gamete. These gametes then join to form an oocyst and will be excreted in the feces. While in the host’s body, Cryptosporidia carries out its entire life cycle in the microvilli of the small intestine. The most common symptom of Cryptosporidiosis is watery diarrhea. Other symptoms include: - Dehydration - Weight loss - Stomach cramps or pain - Fever - Nausea - Vomiting Some people with Cryptosporidiosis will have no symptoms at all. While the small intestine is the site most commonly affected, Cryptosporidium infections could possibly affect other areas of the digestive or the respiratory tract. (CDC) Symptoms usually begin 2-10 days after becoming infected and last 1-2 weeks on average. In immunocompetent individuals, Cryptosporidiosis is not life threatening.

The Prince Essay -- essays research papers

The Prince   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Governing countries and states properly has been a difficult task from the beginning of time. In every country there will be people to who are unhappy and will disagree with your rule, causing your system to fail. So, century after century, people have tried new ways to make their politics suffice everyone’s needs. However, the art of politics is a complicated and challenging issue that will always be needed to be dealt with. There have been many ways in which people have preached their ideas on politics, but none were better than those of Niccolo Machiavelli. Born in 1469, Niccolo was adamant in creating a master plan for seizing and controlling power. He voiced these themes on what it takes to be a prince of a state in his magnificent book, The Prince. In his book many themes were expressed in order to fulfill the role of a prince. These themes ranged from human nature to military force and most importantly virtue.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Machavelli believed that the state is the highest achievement of man and one should love the state more than his own soul. Being the perfect prince is clearly a difficult task, but if done correctly, it can be very rewarding. Machiavelli also believed that human nature does not change. In general Machiavelli thought people were ungrateful, selfish, and insincere people, who only care about themselves. Therefore the government must take account for man’s true nature and use his qualities for its purposes. Machiavelli also explained that a ruler who intends to be successful must be prepared to do bad things when necessary. He must sometimes caress, sometimes hurt, sometimes forgive, and sometimes punish. This requirement must override all moral judgments, and when making the decision, the ruler must act without hesitation. Hesitation would project â€Å"false wisdom†.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Another, and probably the most important concept of political success is the idea of virtue. Virtue means strength, intelligence, and courage, the necessary qualities of any human being. Machiavelli felt that the quality of virtue was found in some of the world’s most important leaders; Moses, Cyrus, and Romulus to name a few. Governments ruled by an individual depends upon this leaders virtue. Without it, the political success will crumble.   Ã‚  &... ...felt it was necessary to study history. This way he can focus on successful rulers’ victories and defeats and analyze them for his own well being. Alexander the Great studied and imitated the rule of Achilles and went on to become one of the most successful rulers ever. Machiavelli felt that these were necessary means in becoming a successful ruler. He also felt fortifications had little importance, stating â€Å"the best fortress is to be found in the love of the people†.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In Niccolo Machiavelli’s The Prince, we have read numerous aspects of becoming an effective and successful ruler. He focused on all aspects of life and discussed each in great detail. He studied human nature, fortune, military tactics, virtue, and personal qualities of past rulers and analyzed why each one’s rule collapsed. He found out the ruler with both the lion and the fox qualities, he was able to have a successful rule. Machiavelli was creating some sort of machine that would be able to conquer fortune, human nature, conspiracies, battle, and the test of to time to rule a politically unified Italy. The themes in The Prince have changed views on politics and leadership to this day.

Personality psychology Essay

Abstract Carl Gustav Jung has influenced many facets of modern psychology and counseling with his unique spiritual approach to personality theory. Herein lies a biographical address of Jung’s life, a comprehensive overview of the principle tenets of his personality theories, and a Christian evaluation of his work. Specific attention is given to comparing and contrasting Jung’s theory of a collective unconscious with a Christian’s understanding of the spiritual world. In addition, a guide is provided to Christians looking to mine Jung’s work for techniques that might help their clients, while at the same time avoiding others that cannot coincide with orthodox Christian beliefs. EVALUATING JUNG FROM A CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE Evaluating Jung From A Christian Perspective Carl Jung lived a very interesting life, and has provided the fields of psychology and counseling with valuable perspective and insight. A modern Christian psychologist or counselor would do well to mine Jung’s theories for useful application today. The difficulty is found in moving past Jung’s cloud of mysticism and properly applying orthodox Christian beliefs to Jung’s work. The Life Story of Jung Boyhood Carl Gustav Jung was born in 1875 in Kessnil, Switzerland (Jung, 1989). It is quite telling that very early in Jung’s autobiography he describes how he came to his understanding of Jesus as a boy. Jung (1989) described how the natural dangers around his home led to untimely deaths, how his father presided over these funerals, and how Jung lost trust in Jesus because Jesus allowed or caused these people to die. He admits, â€Å"In later years and until my confirmation, I made every effort to force myself to take the required positive attitude to Christ. But I could never succeed in overcoming my secret distrust† (Jung, 1989, pp. 13-14). Jung wrote his autobiography while he was in his eighties and only a few years before he died. Either Jung was a little boy particularly sensitive to his faith, or as an old man he superimposed some of his mature hostility to Christianity onto his memories of early life. Either way, it seems Jung would admit that he was never a Christian. Another strange phenomenon in Jung’s early life was a strange experience he described as occurring while he was around eight or nine years old and playing on a favorite rock he had: Often, when I was along, I saw down on this stone, and then began an imaginary game that went something like this: â€Å"I am sitting on top of this stone and it is underneath. † But the stone also could say â€Å"I† and think: â€Å"I am lying here on this slope and he is sitting on top of me. † The question then arose: â€Å"Am I the one who is sitting on the stone, or am I the stone on which he is sitting? † (Jung, 1989, p. 20) It is possible to dismiss this event as a child’s whimsy and miss the significant dissociative quality that affected Jung. As if Jung anticipated this, he follows this memory with another even more emphatic. He carved a two-inch long manikin out of his school ruler, dressed it, made a stone for it, and secretly hid it in his attic (Jung, 1989). His thoughts show how divided and anxious his personality had become. â€Å"No one could discover my secret and destroy it. I felt safe, and the tormenting sense of being at odds with myself was gone† (Jung, 1989, p.21). This introspective dialogue confirms Jung struggled with a personality disorder himself. Young Adulthood and Parents Not surprisingly, these two themes of distrust toward Christianity and an increasingly manifest disorder continued into Jung’s formative years. â€Å"As a school boy, Jung began to experience himself and be convinced that he was both the child he objectively seemed to be and also an authoritative wise old man who had lived in the eighteenth century† (Sollod, Wilson, & Monte, 2009, p. 157). According to Sollod et al. (2009) while trying to understand himself, Jung also struggled with understanding his parents and his home life. Jung’s father was a pastor of the Swiss Reformed Church who struggled with his own faith, and his mother seemed to possess two personalities. Sometimes she was a sweet mother and wife, and at other times she was a â€Å"witch, prophetess, and seeress who communicated with spirits† (Sollod et al. , 2009, p. 157). The two themes most obvious in young Jung are the same two themes that dominated the lives of his parents. EVALUATING JUNG FROM A CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE Adulthood. Later, Jung (1989) proved to be a good student and was considering a career as a medical man when he was strongly influenced by paranormal events in his house. Curious, he began to attend seances with his family and included these events in his doctoral thesis. After finishing that, Jung (1989) says, â€Å"On December 10, 1900, I took up my post as assistant at Burgholzi Mental Hospital, Zurich† (p. 111). It was there Jung became interested in the mentally ill and Freud’s work. Freud and Jung became close, and Jung learned much from Freud. However, a bitterness developed between them and they began to break apart. Sollod et al. explains: By 1913, the break with Freud and the Freudians had become permanent. As we have seen, this period also signaled Jung’s development of the most distinctive aspects of his own theorizing and his own personal voyage into the depths of what he termed the â€Å"collective unconscious. † (2009, p. 159) From this association and then public break with Freud, Jung and his ideas began to gain in popularity. He began to develop many independent theories in addition to the collective unconscious, but the basis of his personality theories remain rooted in Freudian thought. Still, most of Jung’s theories were inspired from his own personal, spiritual experiences (Boa, 2004, p. 97). Jung’s Theories The Collective Unconscious It is good to begin discussing Jung’s theories in relation to his break with Freud. We can draw from our understanding of Freud the concepts of psycho-sexual unconscious drives, repression, and the id, ego, and superego to gain an understanding of where Jung began. Jung looked deeper into the concept of the unconscious and found a collective element there: If we analyze the persona we remove the mask and discover that what appeared to be an individual is at bottom collective. We thus trace â€Å"the Little God of the World† back to his origin, that is, to a personification of the collective psyche. Finally, to our astonishment, we realize that the persona was only the mask of the collective psyche. Whether we follow Freud and reduce the primary impulse to sexuality, or Adler and reduce it to the elementary desire for power, or reduce it to the general principle of the collective psyche which contains the principles of both Freud and Adler, we arrive at the same result: namely, the dissolution of the personal into the collective. (Jung, 2008, p.38) Jung believed this collective unconscious was a natural result of the evolutionary process in humans, and therefore â€Å"is morally and aesthetically neutral and should not be regarded as an enemy to be avoided† (Boa, 2004, p. 97). Christian Response To The Collective Unconscious Jung’s collective unconscious might excite the Christian who is thinking of the biblical descriptions of angels, demons, heaven, hell, and the entire spiritual world. Is Jung tapping into a part of all of us that comprehends these spiritual things? Both the Christian’s understanding of the spiritual world and Jung’s collective unconscious are unseen. And both views believe all humanity participates or will participate in their unseen world. However, Jung’s view is specifically amoral, whereas Scripture describes God’s revealed morality for humans in the material world and angels and demons in the spirit world (2 Pet 2:410 NASB). For the collective unconscious to encompass all the Christian understands about the spiritual world, it would have to be under God’s authority and therefore moral. A Christian understands God as eternal, omnipotent, omniscient, and omnibenevolent, and thus God would have sovereignty over the collective unconscious if it did exist. In addition, a Christian’s understanding of the spirit world is that it exists as a real space even though it cannot be seen. A Christian believes this spirit world cannot be entered by a human voluntarily. These two beliefs are antithetical to Jung’s understanding of the collective unconscious. Not only does Jung claim to have voluntarily entered the collective unconscious, but much of his later work is based on his return from this place including a mysterious little red book. His writings in that red book were very different from most of his professional work: Instead, the book was a kind of phantasmagoric morality play, driven by Jung’s own wish not just to chart a course out of the mangrove swamp of his inner world but also to take some of its riches with him. It was this last part – the idea that a person might move beneficially between the poles of the rational and irrational, the light and the dark, the conscious and the unconscious – that provided the germ for his later work and for what analytical psychology would become. (Corbett, 2009,  ¶ 16). The orthodox Christian is forced to conclude that Jung’s theory of a collective unconscious has no bearing on the reality of the spiritual world. Archetypes Jung, however, believed in the reality of the collective unconscious and devoted much of his life to its experience and study. From this work came his understanding of archetypes. He defined archetypes loosely as primal images and experiences shared in humanity’s unconscious world (Sollod et al. , 2009, pp. 161-162). These archetypes include names such as the Mother, the Trickster, the Shadow, the Hero, the Anima, and the Animus. Freud believed archetypes on the unconscious side and instincts on the conscious side combined to drive a human (Boa, 2004, p. 159). Or, put another way, Daryl Sharp (2001) explains an archetype is â€Å"†¦ a universal tendency to form certain ideas and images and to behave in certain ways. Instincts are the physiological counterparts of archetypes† (p. 14). The general and inclusive nature of the collective unconscious and archetypes made Jung popular among secular and religious spiritualists. Here was a theory they could united behind and put its tenets to work in a practical psychology. Christian Response To The Archetypes Jung easily used the idea of archetypes to interact with Christianity. All of the major historical figures and many icons associated with Christianity can all be explained through archetypes. However at its core Jung’s creation of archetypes is not compatible with Christianity as Boa (2004) explains: Disagreement exists among theologians as to whether Jung’s system repudiates or is compatible with Christianity, some arguing that it undermines biblical authority, and others claiming that it illuminates and enhances the Christian message. However, the psychological interpretation of Christianity in works like Symbols of Transformation and Answer to Job denounces the scriptural portrait of Yahweh and Christ and rejects traditional Christianity as inadequate for modern culture. (p. 101) The orthodox Christian must not reduce God to the status of one archetype among many, and is encouraged to view the historical figures mentioned in the Bible as literal. One may also study Jung further to read of his aversion to orthodox Christianity more clearly. Word Association Test. Whereas Freud relied on hypnosis and forcing a subject to concentrate to draw out unconscious tangles in a person, Jung developed a word association test. Jung would provide the subject with a card with a stimulus word written on it, would ask the subject to respond to the word, and would record reaction times. This method was very successful in identifying unconscious problems. Jung would later improve on this technique to measure more physical responses from the subject (Sollod et al. , 2009, p. 148). Christian Response To The Word Association Test. Jung’s word association test would be improved on and expanded to the many different versions of psychological tests we see today. This method, and methods like it, are useful in determining where a client might need to focus or might be hurting and not realize it. This test would be particularly useful with children or with clients who are unaware of the nature of their psychological baggage. Unlike the incompatable differences associated with the collective unconscious and archetypes theories, the word association test is a useful tool that any Christian should consider. The Introvert and the Extrovert. Jung also developed a model for understanding personality types by observing the differences between Freud and Adler. Jung believed there was a continuum between introversion and extroversion and that everyone fell on a different place on that continuum. Jung also broke those two general types into more specific types, and used this model to fit personalities into categories (Sollod et al. , 2009, pp. 166-171). Later Hans Eysenck, influenced by behaviorist and cognitive schools of thought regarding personality theory, expanded on Jung’s ideas of introversion and extroversion. He performed tests that partially confirmed the basis of Jung’s descriptions, and then described how the ideas Jung postulated had been around since the times of ancient Greece. Nevertheless, Eysenck’s evaluation and expansion of Jung’s work has led to an understanding of personality types that is useful today Sollod et al. , 2009, pp. 501-506). In addition, â€Å"Web sites based on the dimensions Jung outlined have proliferated, and one can find a number of well-researched tests of Jungian types. Foremost among these are the Myers-Briggs test and the Kiersey temperament survey† (Sollod et al. , 2009, p. 170). Christian Response To The Introvert and Extrovert Types Similar to the word association test, Jung’s formulation and the subsequent development of personalty type theories based on introversion and extroversion are helpful diagnostic tools. While observing the view that a human does not completely fit into a single personality type, and humans’ personalities change, these tools should be utilized in a modern psychology or counseling setting in addition to usual methods. A Christian can counsel another Christian with scripture in truth and love while better understanding that client in terms of their general personality bent. Summary There is no doubt that Carl Gustav Jung lived a troubled life and regularly interacted with the occult. Were he alive today, it’s likely the fields of psychology and counseling would treat him more as a patient than a contributor. Nevertheless, his ideas and views help shape each of those fields and influenced many others who also helped shape those fields. A Christian would do well to mine Jung’s life and work through a filer of orthodox belief. Even though Jung was a nonbeliever, a troubled man, and was hostile to orthodox Christianity, his unique insights are still useful in doing God’s will in today’s world. After studying Jung, a counselor is better equipped to help people. References Boa, K. (2004). Augustine to Freud: What theologians & psychologists tell us about human nature and why it matters. Nashville, TN: B&H Publishing Group. Corbett, S. (2009, September 16). The Holy Grail of the Unconscious. The New York Times. Retrieved from http://www. nytimes. com Jung, C. (2008). The Conception of the Unconscious. In M. W. Schustack & H. S. Friedman (Eds. ), The Personality Reader, (2nd ed. , pp. 36-40). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc. Jung, C. (1989). Memories, Dreams, Reflections. New York: Vintage Books. Sharp, D. (2001). Digesting Jung: Food for the journey. Toronto, ON: Inner City Books. Sollod, R. N. , Wilson J. P. , & Monte C. F. (2009). Beneath The Mask? : An introduction to theories of personality (8th ed. ). Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons.