Hersey blanchard situational leadership Final paper Research

Hersey blanchard situational leadership Final - Research Paper Example Moreover, effective leadership style based on the nature of a particular situation can help an organization to provide effective solutions to the developed issues and challenges. This research paper will evaluate the value of Hersey-Blanchard’s situational leadership theory or model or theory in order to improve the performance of healthcare organizations. Healthcare industry can be considered as one of the sensitive industries in this global market place. It is important for the organizations in this particular industry to ensure the implementation of effective leadership style in order to maintain effective workplace environment. The Hersey-Blanchard situational leadership theory can be considered as important theory for the healthcare organizations. This particular theory was introduced and presented by Dr. Paul Hersey (Blanchard, 1983). It is highly important for the healthcare organizations to be prepared for different types of situations. On the other hand, it is important for the management of these healthcare organizations to develop and implement different types of situational leadership styles based on the demand of the situation (Graeff, 1983). According to this leadership theory, an effective leader should have the flexibility to change his or her leadership style and implement change management process in the organization by adopting different types of leadership styles based on the demand and nature of the situation. However, the leadership theory of hersey and Blanchard can be divided into four different styles, such as telling, selling, participating and delegating. Telling can be considered as one of the important situational leadership styles. In this leadership style the leaders used to tell the followers and sub-ordinates what exactly to do and what is the process or procedure to complete the task (Vecchio, 1987). The managers in the healthcare organization can adopt and implement

Swot Analysis for Keystone Bank Essay Example for Free

Swot Analysis for Keystone Bank Essay Keystone has a few strengths looking at its present financial condition financial statements. However, the bank is willing and able to pay higher competitive rates compared to other banks in the area. This is likely to send a strong signal to potential customers who may wish to take advantage of the rates by increasing their core deposits at Keystone Bank. Also, increasing local economic activities can also be viewed as strength to keystone. This is because if the local people are making more money than they need, they will be willing to save some especially at high rates of return which would benefit them and Keystone at the same time. It will increase their core deposits and decrease their dependence on other sources for loanable funds. Commercial and consumer loans are also strength of keystone looking at the two year period compared to their peers. They need to capitalize on that and see if they offer some commercial loans to the new company’s coming into town at competitive rates. Weakness: Keystone Bank has a wide range of weaknesses compared to its peers. Some of their weaknesses are a result of their high exposure to credit risk, interest rate risk and liquidity risk. Credit risk can be defines as the risk of a corporation not being able to pay its debt as they become due. Keystone has a lot of CD’s on its books and need to pay the holders of the CD as they become due. This is going to put a lot of financial stress on the bank considering the fact that interest rates are low and the national economy is slowing down. Liquidity risk can be defined as a company’s ability to convert its assets into cash at fair market value. Keystone Bank’s liquidity measures are below the average of its peers. If you consider its temporary investments to assets for 1990 and 1989, they were 10. 64% and 11. 02% compared to 15. 07% and 16. 15% of its peers. This means that Keystone Bank is investing in products that cannot be quickly converted into cash at fair market price. They are also offering CD’s at a high rate compared to its peers. Other liquidity measures such as volatile liability to assets, is more than 11 % above the average of its peers. This means that Keystone has huge liabilities on its balance sheet which can easily be defaulted on. Net loans leases to core deposits also show an even high trend. There is over 25% difference between Keystone Bank and its peers. In the last two years Keystone’s funds for lending to its customers have mainly come from borrowed money instead of core deposits. This means that the bank make interest payment on the money it lends to its customers which has put it at a disadvantages in terms of offering competitive rates to its customers. It also indicates that in the case of any liquidity crises Keystone bank will not be able to convert its investments into cash at fair market value as quickly as it may want. A banks largest asset is its loans or loanable funds which is not the case for Keystone bank. Lack of clear written policies regarding liquidity and interest rate management by the bank has made it difficult for managers to make good asset and liability decisions. This could be part of the reason why instead of loaning funds to customers, the bank is selling CD’s and increasing their liabilities. Opportunities: Design of the new information system of financial reports will help management make informed decisions on how best to use the banks resources and also meet the examiners criticisms. An increase in the population in the area provides a great opportunity for the bank. The bank can capitalize on this and help it propel into the future. The establishment of new facilities by three national firms in the area – an electronics company, automotive parts and accessories manufacturer and the building materials supplier – is expected to flood the local economy with about 2700 jobs. This is great news for Keystone since it can use incentives such as free checking accounts to bring in new customers and increase its deposits. It can also find new and qualified customers who might be interested in real estate, consumer and other types of loans. The establishment of the new interest rate sensitivity and liquidity reports will help management monitor and understand changes in interest rates and liquidity and how they affect the bank. Keystone can take advantage of the current low interest rates and borrow money from the Federal Reserve Bank. With interest rates expected to rise in the near future, Keystone can increase its adjusted rate mortgages to customers instead of fixed rate mortgages in hopes to increasing their returns when interest rates rises. Threats: There are numerous threats that Keystone faces as a bank. First there is the threat of other banks and thrifts in the area who will also take advantage of the expected increase in the local economy. Most of the banks in the area may be able to offer relatively high interest rates to lure in new customers. If these banks are in a better financial position compared to Keystone that will put them at an advantage over Keystone. Also, the thrifts will also compete for the same 2700 people who will be acquiring the new jobs moving into the area. The bank need to work hard to decrease it CD’s and increase its loans if it wants to survive in the long run. Lastly, even though the local economy might be booming the thought of an economic slowdown in other parts of the country may have a negative impact on the spending practices of the locals. This may result in people saving all their monies instead of spending or avoiding loans all together.

Creationism Essay -- essays research papers fc

In a typical American high school, Mr. Doe, the science teacher begins his discussion on the theory of evolution. John, a student opposes the idea the humans came from apes and evolved. John believes that men came from God and that man was created in 6 days. Jane hears this and argues against John, â€Å"How could anything possibly be created in 6 days? This sort of project would take millions of years!† By using up all 45 minutes of class time discussing creationism and evolution, this is a metaphor to the eternal debate as to the origin of the human species. The question of how man came into existence is one of the great debates of this century. There is not enough evidence to support creationism, yet there is even less to support evolution.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The controversy on the origins of life is still hotly debated to this day. The origins of life can be conceived from the theory of evolution or the theory of creationism. The argument is old earth [evolution] versus young earth [creationism] (Seely 2). An astounding 95% of Americans believe in God or a universal spirit, as compared to the 9% who conclude not to have a religion at all (Sheler 2). People have geared towards a more eclectic background on their â€Å"spiritual journey to meet our own personal need† (Sheler 2). Throughout history, humans have been through a gradual accretion rather than one â€Å"sporadic event† after another (Tattersal 58). It is only in the United States that this debate is such a conflict. Humans have an impulse to look unto a higher being rather than a human leader who has faults similar to their own. The higher being [God] should be one of pure perfection. It is the development or creation of man which is what is so intriguing, it is the mystery of man. As individuals and as a whole, people tend to get uneasy between their â€Å"religious compulses and our [their] unwavering commitment to a secular society† (Sheler 1). As a contradiction within itself, â€Å"we [humans] profess fidelity to traditional morality yet champion individual freedom and resist religious authoritarianism† (Sheler 1). Our own manifestations of how we originated and where we came from, the debate of â€Å"the chicken or the egg† is just blurred by the ambiguities between creationism and evolution. Was it the egg? If so, where did the egg come from? Eggs come from chickens, but then where did the chicken come ... ...act that we come from something and somewhere, it’s just the fact that we are searching for answers. Works Cited â€Å"Creationism.† World Book Encyclopedia. Vol. 4, 1994:1123. â€Å"Evolution.† World Book Encyclopedia. Vol. 6, 1994:436-443. Graham, Charlotte. â€Å"The Eternal Debate.† SIRS. http://sks.sirs.com/cgi-bin/hst- ar†¦&type=ART&sound=no&key=CREATIONISM. 22 Oct. 1994:1-3. Gould, Stephan Jay. â€Å"Nonoverlapping Magistera.† SIRS. http://sks.sirs.com/cgi-bin/hst- ar†¦&type=ART&sound=no&key=CREATIONISM. March 1997:1-8. Marlantes, Liz. â€Å"The evolution of a controversy.† ProQuest. http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?TS=†¦&sid=1&1dx=25&Deli=1&RQT=309&Dtp=1 23 Dec. 1999:1-2. Onken, Michael. â€Å"Physics.† Microsoft Explorer. http://www.madsci.org/posts/archives/dec96/835000890.Phr.html. 18 June 1996:1. Sagan, Carl. The Dragons of Eden : Ballantine Books, 1997. Sheler, Jeffrey L. â€Å"Spiritual America.† SIRS. http://sks.sirs.com/cgi-bin/hst- ar†¦&type=ART&sound=no&key=CREATIONISM. 4 April 1994:1-10. Sullivan, Robert. â€Å"2000 Years of Christianity.† Life. December 1999:50-68. Tattersal, Ian. â€Å"Once We Were Not Alone.† Scientific American. Jan. 2000:56-62.

Misguided Gothic Authors :: gothic

Misguided Gothic Authors      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In many ways the fascination with the gothic style of art, represented by music, literature, film, and others, is nothing more than a way for the observer to escape from real life and its many responsibilities. Gothic art claims to be profound and contain great esoteric meaning with life changing impact, yet the characters and the message are more often weak, unproductive, crippled, or even mad. Examples of this flaw in the argument in favor of the gothic imagination are given in the works by Beethoven, Goethe, Rice, and Gilman. It will be revealed that these authors have been misguided often by their own escapist nature to create a false reality and promote it as meaningful. In truth, the gothic imagination is the imagination of those who are looking for an excuse for their laziness and purpose behind their protective depression.      Ã‚   There is no question that the work of Beethoven are tremendous and phenomenal. His talent as a composer has rarely been closely met. The maturation of his compositions show a growth of important musical literature that admitted have changed the world within and without the realm of music. This fact has been a powerful tool carried by those promoting the gothic imagination for far too long. It is true that Beethoven was deaf and that he had difficult relations with his family as well as various women in his life. This gives no call for belief that he was any different than any of the other millions of people in the world that have been in the same situation. It is suggested that his great works were due to his suffering and gothic mind. It is suggested that he struggled and transcended because he was a gothic hero. The abuse of the contributions of such a remarkable musician is almost in excusable. In attempts to justify their own suffering and to give excuse for their inabil ity to operate within normal human society, the gothics will say that Beethoven was misunderstood, suffered, and died miserably, and so will they. They have given up to the world and now feel justified in doing so.      Ã‚   Beethoven was a man with a great amount of talent and influence in his world which does set him apart somewhat from others. He also had a great deal of pain in his life which sets him apart from very few others in this world.

Linguistics Classes, Verb and Noun

â€Å"Discuss and contrast some of the main features of the classes VERB and NOUN in English and any other language. † In this essay I will make an attempt to discuss differences between two classes of lexemes, which are verb and noun. In order to conduct that analysis in a detailed manner I will refer to two languages, English and Polish (minor references to French will also help my studies). I will start from defining what one can refer to as class in linguistics. I will to refer to certain shadows of doubt that may be casted on that categorization.This will be followed by elaborating subtleties of what constitutes a verb providing examples and showing contrasts between two languages examined. With the help of studying materials I’ll manage to outline empirical criteria for how the concept of verb can be understood by a linguist. Then, I will implement similar methodology to clarify the concept of a noun class. Finally I will arrive at a conclusion that beyond any dou bt those two categories are distinctly different and minor similarities emphasized by two drastically different languages simply make the case more interesting.A scholar is able to divide every language into two diverse, but mutually supplementing, categories. Grammar is a set of closed system that determines how items of the language interact with each other. Lexicon, on the other hand provides a glossary of lexemes. Lexeme is more than a word, as it refers to all possible variations of linguistic items used within language. Its relation to the meaning can sometimes proves difficult to define without implementing a variety of terms in the definition. To fully explain what a given lexeme means it has to be placed in a variety of contexts and supported with examples.An alternative to lexicon is called a thesaurus and it groups words accordingly to their semantic similarities. Lexicon can be further divided into classes of lexemes. Unlike grammar, these systems of lexical concepts are open, which means their content varies depending on the language. Before drawing the line between nouns and verbs I’d like to draw attention to possible blurs of that line. In English language words such as [walk] relate to both a noun and a verb. This is not exactly a homonym (lexeme that has the same form but varies in its meaning) as both words refer to the same activity.Interesting comparison with the Polish language is that it never uses verbs as noun but still has large variety of verb derived nouns such as zapalenie (inflammation) or skojarzenie (association). Despite that fact verb derived noun in Polish such as bieg (a run) is not its noun form of the verb – bieganie (running). It also contains a significantly smaller number of homonyms, most of which either differs in spelling (kot-kod) or has a foreign origin (pilot – tv remote and pilot – one that steers a plane) and is usually a noun. English uses multiple homonyms within different classes a nd semantic distances: pitch, division.As no universal differentiation can be drawn for classes of verb and noun they are most commonly identified by several categories of lexemes. Verb in every language refers to motion, rest, giving, affect, corporeal, attention and speaking. Some languages allow further distinction to nuclear and non-nuclear verbs. Nuclear verb of rest in Polish would be lezec (means to lay, applied to either an object or a person) and the non-nuclear item that can be defined only by a reference to the nuclear verb – zalegac (to lay somewhere for a long time/to stand in the way of everyday activities).English, on the other hand cannot provide a good example of such a lexical item. A scholar can also mark off verbs to be transitive or non-transitive. A transitive verb needs to be completed by an object of the action (We left John. ) while the intransitive is complete without any object to follow (We could not stand it so we left. ). In Polish transitive (pr zesuwac – to move an object) are entirely different words than intransitive verbs (skakac – to jump). Categories that will only refer to verbs class are modality and tense aspect.Both in Polish and English future past and present tenses occur, however in Polish perfect tenses are only implied by the context: Patrze na niego od godziny – I’ve been watching him for an hour. What’s also fascinating is that in past and future continuous tense Polish verbs suddenly have gender. Discussing modality it’s worth mentioning that in Polish imperative mode of a verb is always a different form any regular conjugation (which wouldn’t be the case in French). English modality is most likely to be contained within the context of the sentence.Comparing these languages from the perspective of verbs scholar should also bear in mind that while English has phrasal verbs (put it off) that are quite different from their lexeme of origin (put) Polish does not . I’d risk a statement that this function is associated with a complex system of prefixes (wlaczyc, wylaczyc – turn on, turn off). Following the applied logic one ought to explain the lexical class of noun with its typical references. Nouns describe parts of the human body and components of other things, fauna, flora, sun moon and stars, elements, and artefacts.They also stand for abstract terms such as emotions, colour or time. Latter one often leads to interesting observations when examined from a linguistic perspective. In Polish and French instead of asking for the time, one asks for the number of the hour. A noun could be derived from verbs or adjectives (swim, hatred) or underived (beauty, fish). Dixon stated that transitivity value of verbs is equally important to the gender of the noun. In English nouns don’t have gender, while in Polish and French even objects have gender. Distribution of gender qualities within these lexemes can be conditioned by the c ontext of culture.It’s also often implied by vowel suffix in French and Polish (e in French and a in Polish). Nouns can take singular form or plural form when added a suffix (s in English and i in Polish). There are exceptions both grammatical (fish) and mass-nouns (mud). Some languages include use of a possessive suffix, however neither English nor Polish would be an example. Class of nouns also includes generic terms, which mean a word that can mean a variety of things depending on the implied intention. An example that is close to perfection is the noun â€Å"thing† which can stand for any other noun.It can as well be a feature of speech style. Curious detail is, when translated, the word thing in Polish can take two forms (cos/rzecz), both have a similar meaning but are used in different context and the latter one has a female gender. Less obvious example would be a Polish word wiersz, which can refer to a poem as well as to a single text line. According to scholar s like Marantz certain lexical items can be used in a variety of syntactic structure and implementation of any lexicon, therefore classes such as nouns or verbs are entirely futille.I beg to differ as the summary of my analysis shows multiple differences and distinctive features of each class. Verbs and nouns are defined with a variety of different concepts. Every additional term that refers to categories within a class is like an additional dimension, which outline boundaries of semantic field necessary for understanding the concept. Therefore, provides a valuable methodology for linguistic studies. Blake Lezenski Word Count: 1235 Bibliography: R. M. W. Dixon, 2012. Basic Linguistic Theory Volume 3: Further Grammatical Topics. Edition 1. Oxford University Press, USA. Erkelens, M. A. , 2009.Learning to categorize verbs and nouns: studies on Dutch. Ultrecht: Amsterdam Center for Language and Communication ————————— Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€œ [ 1 ]. Dixon R. M. W. Dixon, 2012. Basic Linguistic Theory Volume 3: Further Grammatical Topics. Edition 1. Oxford University Press, USA, p. 290. [ 2 ]. Ibid 291. [ 3 ]. Ibid 291. [ 4 ]. Ibid 300. [ 5 ]. Ibid 293. [ 6 ]. Ibid 300. [ 7 ]. Ibid 305. [ 8 ]. Ibid 291. [ 9 ]. Ibid 302. [ 10 ]. Ibid 301. [ 11 ]. Erkelens, M. A. , 2009. Learning to categorize verbs and nouns: studies on Dutch. Ultrecht: Amsterdam Center for Language and Communication, p. 26.

Free Essays on My Philosophy

Who am I? My Philosophy of life over the past couple of months of learning â€Å"philosophy,† by its definition, is extremely vague and confusing. It can be related to anything to do with thought, perception, and even basic human existence. However, over the notes, readings and class discussion I have been part of through these months, I learned that philosophy is just simply the study of knowledge. It is also described as the love of wisdom. Consequently, in further defining philosophy, perhaps it is easier to simply state what it may or may not involve rather than trying to find a concrete and firm definition. Philosophy includes the studies of logic, ethics, metaphysics, and epistemology. Logic deals with the principles and systems of reasoning. We deduce and interpret information by this method. Ethics involves the principles of morals and the judgment of â€Å"good† and â€Å"bad† conduct. In a world where people are murdering, stealing and harming each other, it’s hard to find the good in people now a days. The people who are doing these things need help. That’s where people with good morals can step in hopefully and change the way they think. I think that people are created initially good and then go create their own nature, which is what Plato thought. He believed that when you are born, you are born with a â€Å"clean slate.† I can agree with this by what I have learned In church with my religion, and I think that anyone that believes in God can believe this. Now some of us have it better than other, which can really hurt our chances to do well in this world. If you where born in a bad neighborhood with a lot of violence and drugs, then hung out all with a bad crowd, chances are you will become a bad person. That why these kids need to be put in the right direction. Aristotle said that everyone lived to be happy, that is something that I totally agree with. Even though different things make different people ha... Free Essays on My Philosophy Free Essays on My Philosophy Who am I? My Philosophy of life over the past couple of months of learning â€Å"philosophy,† by its definition, is extremely vague and confusing. It can be related to anything to do with thought, perception, and even basic human existence. However, over the notes, readings and class discussion I have been part of through these months, I learned that philosophy is just simply the study of knowledge. It is also described as the love of wisdom. Consequently, in further defining philosophy, perhaps it is easier to simply state what it may or may not involve rather than trying to find a concrete and firm definition. Philosophy includes the studies of logic, ethics, metaphysics, and epistemology. Logic deals with the principles and systems of reasoning. We deduce and interpret information by this method. Ethics involves the principles of morals and the judgment of â€Å"good† and â€Å"bad† conduct. In a world where people are murdering, stealing and harming each other, it’s hard to find the good in people now a days. The people who are doing these things need help. That’s where people with good morals can step in hopefully and change the way they think. I think that people are created initially good and then go create their own nature, which is what Plato thought. He believed that when you are born, you are born with a â€Å"clean slate.† I can agree with this by what I have learned In church with my religion, and I think that anyone that believes in God can believe this. Now some of us have it better than other, which can really hurt our chances to do well in this world. If you where born in a bad neighborhood with a lot of violence and drugs, then hung out all with a bad crowd, chances are you will become a bad person. That why these kids need to be put in the right direction. Aristotle said that everyone lived to be happy, that is something that I totally agree with. Even though different things make different people ha...

Free Essays on File Sharing

File Sharing is the RIAA’s Scapegoat for the Decline of CD Sales The year 1999 became the reigning year of Napster as communities of music producers and listeners were introduced to Internet peer-to-peer file sharing. The historical growth of Napster users soon troubled the record industry. Numerous record labels quickly filed suits claiming Napster file sharing violates the copyright laws of their intellectual property. After an extensive legal battle the ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the record companies. The termination of Napster incited the production of a seemingly endless list of alternatives. These new generations of file sharing networks are not quite clones of the pioneering Napster. Their structural modifications removed the necessity of a central database. Certain applications do not even require users to log in using a screen name or any other identifying information. Since such altered characteristics decelerates the industry’s depletion of free peer-to-peer music networks the RIAA is in pursuit of any opportunity to slander them. One of the most common accusations is that file sharing is resulting in a decline of CD sales. The industry’s allegations that file sharing weakens CD sales are incorrectly justified. The statistics presented by the music industry to display the correlation between file sharing and decreasing CD sales are deceiving. Hilary Rosen claims in the RIAA’s 2001 year-end shipments report that, â€Å"a large factor contributing to the decrease in overall shipments last year is online piracy and CD burning† (Rosen). However, the RIAA’s very own statistics do not support this conclusion that downloaded music is responsible for the industry’s alleged slump. Compact disc unit sales for the years 1999 in which Napster was introduced were reported as 938.9 million, reported units sold in 2000 were 942.5 million, reported units in 2001 were 881.9 million, and last year’... Free Essays on File Sharing Free Essays on File Sharing File Sharing is the RIAA’s Scapegoat for the Decline of CD Sales The year 1999 became the reigning year of Napster as communities of music producers and listeners were introduced to Internet peer-to-peer file sharing. The historical growth of Napster users soon troubled the record industry. Numerous record labels quickly filed suits claiming Napster file sharing violates the copyright laws of their intellectual property. After an extensive legal battle the ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the record companies. The termination of Napster incited the production of a seemingly endless list of alternatives. These new generations of file sharing networks are not quite clones of the pioneering Napster. Their structural modifications removed the necessity of a central database. Certain applications do not even require users to log in using a screen name or any other identifying information. Since such altered characteristics decelerates the industry’s depletion of free peer-to-peer music networks the RIAA is in pursuit of any opportunity to slander them. One of the most common accusations is that file sharing is resulting in a decline of CD sales. The industry’s allegations that file sharing weakens CD sales are incorrectly justified. The statistics presented by the music industry to display the correlation between file sharing and decreasing CD sales are deceiving. Hilary Rosen claims in the RIAA’s 2001 year-end shipments report that, â€Å"a large factor contributing to the decrease in overall shipments last year is online piracy and CD burning† (Rosen). However, the RIAA’s very own statistics do not support this conclusion that downloaded music is responsible for the industry’s alleged slump. Compact disc unit sales for the years 1999 in which Napster was introduced were reported as 938.9 million, reported units sold in 2000 were 942.5 million, reported units in 2001 were 881.9 million, and last year’...

Phoenix program essays

Phoenix program essays The above stated quote is a direct definition of the Central Intelligence Agencies Phoenix Program. The Phoenix Program was one of our nations dirty secrets that still has not been fully uncovered. Yes there is declassified written information, and oral accounts but there is still much information that has been either destroyed, or people who have been directly told not to say a word about the events that happened during the time period of the Phoenix Program. It was a program that many people feel was wrong to impliment but I feel that it was necessary. The Vietnam Conflict was meant to be a conventional conflict but in times of need you must become unconvetional and become primative, and strike at the source of the enemy, not the Viet Cong or the North Vietnam Army but the people who supported them the Viet Cong Infrastructure. These people were the tax collectors, and the recruitors. With these people being taking prisoner, or being killed. These things were killings that n eeded to happen in order to destroy the enemy at the heart of there operations. Many Americans believe that this was wrong killing civilians and that it was against the Geneva Conventions but it was a necessary operation. I firmly belive that if the Phoenix Program was able to have been kept in total seceracy it could have changed the total outcome of the Vietnam Conflict. In this paper I will show evidence of how the Phoenix Program worked, its infrastructure, and the death of the Phoenix Program. ...

Research Data Memo Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Research Data Memo - Essay Example It is calculated as: As we can see most of the variables have relationships with the price of the apartments. The price of the apartments is most strongly related to the number of bedrooms. The lower limit of the 95% confidence interval of the correlation between price and the number of bedroom is 0.30 whereas the upper limit for the same is 0.61. The positive value of r indicates that the price increases as the number of bedrooms increase in the flat. As expected from intuition, the price is inversely related to the distance of the apartment from the town. As the distance from the town increases, the price of real estate decreases. Both the lower limit and the upper limit of 95% confidence interval of r is in the negative region. The number of pools is also inversely related to the price of real estate. The upper limit and lower limit of the correlation coefficient is both in the negative region which implies that in 95% of the samples, the two variables will have a negative relationship amongst them. The variable Township is positively related to the price of the real estate for the data set given. But, the lower limit of the correlation coefficient between the two variables is negative indicating that in certain data sets, the relationship between the two variables might be negative indicating that the price of the real estate decreases as the number of township increases. Possible reason for the same might be the increase in the congestion levels which may result with increased number of townships. Generally, Pearsons r coefficient is significant when it is higher than 0.2 with degrees of freedom 103 and p

Review of Academic Journal Articles on Management Essay

Review of Academic Journal Articles on Management - Essay Example Review of the first article Human resource management is thought of as a recent development which is directed at reshaping the relationships of employees. It can be considered as a tool that has replaced the conventional traditions in the field of management like industrial relations and personnel management. Human resource management is an evolving field that tackles complexities in the organizations. Human resource management is characterized as hard or soft because of its association with the business performance and strategy that has caused a thematic divide between the practices grounded in conventional methods such as personnel management and the modern management of human resource. Ivo (2006) wrote an article to explore the best perspectives about the field of human resource management. In the first section of the article, the author has made an attempt to generate a holistic understanding of the field of human resource management on the basis of various perspectives in manage ment. The author has fundamentally identified three systems of management to achieve this, namely closed or scientific management, semi open system or human relations, and the contingency system or the open system. In the second section, the author has tried to interpret human resource management in the form of a framework by thinking of it as a style. This interpretation makes it easy to perceive the hard and soft type of human resource management stylized as the utilitarian instrumentalism and developmental humanism respectively. The second section basically discusses human resource management in terms of a new discipline of management, a restatement of personnel management, a strategic function or a management discipline that is resource based. In the third section, the author has assessed the effect of human resource management upon the strategy, performance and outcome with the help of the Michigan, Harvard, Choice and Guest models. The author highlights the merits of the Choic e model for effective management of human resource. The fourth section considers senior manager in the role of a choice maker. To achieve this, the author has made use of the Japanese model of human resource management. The fifth section constitutes the conclusion in which the author has recapitulated the use of human resource management in the contemporary market as advocated by the literature. For the purpose of understanding the perceptions of human resource management, the researcher has primarily conducted a comprehensive literature review in which, he has studied and compared the findings of past researches. Finally, the author has summarized the research findings. The field of human resource management is very wide and researchers need to explore various aspects of it in order to generate a sound understanding for use by human resource professionals. Although the effects of human resource management on employment and value creation have been sufficiently studied, there is lit tle knowledge about the characteristics and developmental strategies of human resource management. The findings of research conducted by Ivo (2006) are very useful for the IHRM practice in the real world. The author has particularly placed huge emphasis on the comparison between human resource management and the conventional management practices that have been in place for decades like personnel management. Obtaining correct understanding of human resource

Server Virtualization Paper Term Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Server Virtualization - Term Paper Example These issues become a challenge when the business is unable to respond urgently due to budget constraints. Virtualization has proven to be a reliable solution in responding to problems associated with declining floor space and power. Virtualization is exemplified best in virtual memory where computer system software is capable of utilizing more memory than is physically available. This is made possible through the swapping process that allows data to be placed at the background of hard disk. Recent developments have seen this concept being applied in server hardware, networks, laptops, system software and application software. The widespread application of virtualization is due to the fact that most of the system processing resources are normally underutilized. Simply put, much of system time is wasted given that most systems and their applications spend a considerable amount of their time in idle states (Kusnetzky, etal. 2011). Virtualization technology allows more work to be done f rom a single hardware. By creating more than one virtual machine in a single server or laptop, a business executive is able to optimize his or her system resource. This is possible since the technology is non-disruptive and it does not interfere with normal functioning of the system. With the level of abstraction given by virtualization IT managers are able to respond to urgent needs of an organization and to implement cost effective IT infrastructure. This is possible because the managers have a quick access to a centralized pool of resources. Virtualization makes it possible for hardware to function independent of applications and system. In addition, this technology enables virtual machines to be installed in any system. Also, management of operation system and application as a single unit is made possible by incorporating them into virtual machines (Kusnetzky, etal. 2011). Incase a server is overloaded; virtual machines can be deployed to a different server. This ensures that sy stem response time is not compromised and that a system is not underutilized. When the workload goes down, the virtual machines can be incorporated back to their original server so as to cut down costs by saving power. Few years ago it was not possible to exploit full potential of virtualization. This was because it was impossible deploying virtual machines in a secure environment. Server and network administrators at the time had difficulties managing virtual environment since routers and switches were not compatible with virtual machines. Nevertheless, with virtualization, management of resources was fairly easy since applications were readily available. In case a server encountered problems, virtual machines within it were readily restarted in a separate hardware. However, with automatic deployment made possible, efficiency is greatly improved since it is possible to move a virtual machine ahead of time in case a system administrator decides to service the server or to shut it do wn for some other reason. Virtualization has evolved to an extent that network vendors are able to perform certain activities which they could not few years ago. The development of BLADE network technology has seen the launch of switches (VMready) that have solved most of previous experienced problems. The switches readily recognize virtual machines within servers. The switch is also compatible with almost all Hypervisors e.g. Microsoft, VMware, Red Hat etc (Kusnetzky, etal.

HUMINT Intellegence Effectivness during the War on Terror Research Paper - 1

HUMINT Intellegence Effectivness during the War on Terror - Research Paper Example This essay stresses that intelligence is data or information that is evaluated, analyzed, and translated into a product to sustain a specific customer. Intelligence is both a product and process. It has played a significant purpose in warfare and diplomacy throughout history. Human intelligence often referred to as the HUMINT is the utilization of human beings as reliable sources of intelligence data or information. The security agents attain crucial information via interrogation of the detainees and elicitation of data or information from unwitting individuals. Despite the technological advances that have been made in gathering intelligence such as communication intercepts and data collection with satellites, HUMINT stands out as the most reliable source of information. This paper makes a conclusion that HUMINT has been used by countries to obtain important information about their enemies and plans. The operational agents attain crucial information via interrogation of the detainees and elicitation of data or information from unwitting individuals. In addition, HUMINT derives firsthand information from captured terror suspects, which may reveal the activities of terrorists or insurgencies. Despite its success in providing crucial intelligence information, HUMINT has failed to work other intelligence bodies. This behavior has left the national security of the U.S exposed to terrorists.

Marine Electric Energy Sources Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Marine Electric Energy Sources - Essay Example Tides are formed as a result of gravitation force from the sun and the moon, Tidal barrage are dams constructed across an estuary to hold water during high tides and then utilise the potential energy from the high water levels during low tide to generate electricity using turbines, the largest tidal barrage is the Rance tidal plant in France that produces 240 mega watts. Wave are formed when a strong wind passes over sea water, when wave energy is captured it is used to generate electricity, the height of waves depend on the speed of wind, depth of water and duration of wind. According to Jason Margolis(2007) the Pelamis system is on of the widely used method to produce electricity, the Pelamis is a large snake like device that floats and is anchored to the seabed, the device has three power generating sections and waves enable the device to make snake like movements that push hydraulic fluids used in generating electricity, Jason Margolis (2007) states that the system is expensive compared to other sources of energy and at the same time relatively inefficient, these devices are placed parallel to each other forming a wave farm, one of the operational Pelamis system was installed in Portugal in 2008 producing 2.25 megawatts. Offshore Wind farms: Wind power is utilised by turbines which that produce electric energy, according to Jason Margolis (2007) wind energy costs have reduced by 80% over the years due to advancement in technology. A wind farm is a number of wind turbines in the same location. Wind farms are either onshore farm, near shore or offshore. Offshore wind farms are located some kilometres into the sea, wind speed in the sea is considered to have higher speed compared to the wind on the land, however offshore wind firms are more expensive than other wind farms. According to Jason Szep (2009) the US plans to install an offshore wind firm at a cost of 1 billion dollars, the project is expected to have 130 turbines which will produce approximately 170 megawatts in the Cape Cod region and the power generated will be in a position to provide power to over 400,000 residents. Ocean thermal energy conversion: This is a form of energy source that involves utilising temperature differences in sea water, large temperature differences produce more power, the thermal system used in producing electricity is approximately 3%, system used in utilising this form of energy are very expensive and the power produced is relatively low and depends on the location. According to Reuters (2008) the US government has plans of spending over 1.4 billion to enable innovations of Ocean thermal energy conversion, for this reason therefore there have been efforts to improve Ocean thermal energy conversion. Political, economic and environmental implications: Political implications: The European Union according to this report is planning to over 20% of energy using renewable source and therefore it is likely that the renewable energy will be alternative in the future to produce electric energy. However Critics exist is that the some forms of energy sources will hinder economic growth, example the proposed wind farm in the US is expected to hinder commercial fishing in

HUMINT Intellegence Effectivness during the War on Terror Research Paper - 1

HUMINT Intellegence Effectivness during the War on Terror - Research Paper Example This essay stresses that intelligence is data or information that is evaluated, analyzed, and translated into a product to sustain a specific customer. Intelligence is both a product and process. It has played a significant purpose in warfare and diplomacy throughout history. Human intelligence often referred to as the HUMINT is the utilization of human beings as reliable sources of intelligence data or information. The security agents attain crucial information via interrogation of the detainees and elicitation of data or information from unwitting individuals. Despite the technological advances that have been made in gathering intelligence such as communication intercepts and data collection with satellites, HUMINT stands out as the most reliable source of information. This paper makes a conclusion that HUMINT has been used by countries to obtain important information about their enemies and plans. The operational agents attain crucial information via interrogation of the detainees and elicitation of data or information from unwitting individuals. In addition, HUMINT derives firsthand information from captured terror suspects, which may reveal the activities of terrorists or insurgencies. Despite its success in providing crucial intelligence information, HUMINT has failed to work other intelligence bodies. This behavior has left the national security of the U.S exposed to terrorists.

Maslows Hierarchy of Needs Theory Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Maslows Hierarchy of Needs Theory - Essay Example An organization has to satisfy these needs if it wants to achieve efficiency from its customers (Bateman and Snell, 2013). It is important to denote that the satisfaction of these needs must be done in a hierarchical order. Starting with the most important need, that is need for survival; up to the least important need that is the need of self-actualization. Another theory is the ERG theory by Aldefer. According to this theory, an individual has three important needs that an organization must satisfy in order to motivate them. These needs are the desire to exist, relate and grow. According to this theory, these needs change as the position of an employee progresses (Tracy, 2013). Existence encompasses the desire to satisfy basic human needs such as food, shelter and clothing. Relatedness is the desire of an employee to form associations with employers, co-workers, and family members (Dessler, 2013). Growth is the desire of an employee to achieve his or her ambitions. McClelland needs theory is another theory of motivation. According to this theory, the needs of an individual are acquired over time, and it is their experiences that shape these needs. McClelland identifies three needs, which are achievement, affiliation and power. This theory is often referred to as the three needs theory. Under achievement, an individual takes a calculated risk to accomplish their goals. They tend to avoid high risks situations, because success there comes as a chance. They also tend to avoid low risk situations because there is no guarantee of success (Fa?bregas and Scalise, 2012). With affiliation, comes the desire of an individual to create relationships. On this basis, an individual favors collaborations, as opposed to competition. The individual also desires power. Under this need, two types of power exists, institutional and personal (Walters, 2010). Personal power involves the need to control friends, and family members. While institutional is the need to control organiza tions. The motivator-hygiene model theory is also another example of a motivational theory. According to this theory, an organization needs to understand the factors that cause an employee to be motivated, and ones that cause the same employee to be de-motivated. This theory denotes that factors that motivate an employee can change over a period of time, and settings of work (Ryan, 2012). However, the need of respect cannot change. It is the most motivating factor at any given point of an individual’s life. This theory further denotes that in an organization, there is an aspect of satisfaction and dissatisfaction. Managers must put all this in consideration while formulating policies. The final theory is the equity theory of motivation. This theory explains that the motivation of employees come as a result of perceptions in relation to the fairness in which an organization treats its various employees (Schunk, 2012). This theory denotes that individuals value fairness, and th is makes them to have motivation. Of these theories, the most important theory of motivation is the Herzberg’s Motivator-Hygiene Model. This is because the theory is practical and identifies two factors that an organizations needs to consider while developing human resource policies.

Christmas Carol Essay Example for Free

Christmas Carol Essay Have you ever met a man so jolly that you could see he was all in a glow and so jolly that his euphoric spirit just poured off him like wine into a glass? Or, possibly, you have met a man so poor that his warmth for the winter is a mere flicker of a flame on a candlewick? Dickens demonstrates through the use of such characters that it does not matter how much money you posses, a person can hold a personality and characteristics independent of their financial status. Scrooges nephew, Fred, is a charismatic young man, who, lives each second as though it were his last. Most importantly, Fred thinks a great deal about Christmas and how it should be celebrated with great caring spirit. Fred asks Scrooge to dine with them on Christmas Day, but Scrooge explains he would see him in extremity first. This shows the cruel, cold-hearted nature of Mr. Scrooge. But for Scrooges nephew to leave the room without an angry word proves that Fred is a true, delightful person that opens his care to even the most miserable of people. As Fred leaves the building and passes by Bob Cratchit, the clerk, he bestows the greetings of the season on the clerk This scene has a great importance to show, the pleasant nature of Fred and the depressing character of Scrooge. In this same scene, Dickens under-mines the whole reason for the importance of Fred and Bob. Fred, although not as rich as Scrooge, still manages to enjoy his wealth and be a jolly person. Scrooge is unbelievably wealthy, and yet he does not spend even the smallest amount of his money to enjoy himself. What reason have you to be merry? Youre poor enough. This shows that Scrooge thinks all happiness is to do with wealth, yet if that were true, he would be happy himself, would he not? It is apparent, therefore, that Dickens created Fred as another side of the Rich Man character that we see in Scrooge, the stereotypical miserable rich loner. Bob, unlike Fred, is the Poor Man and the antithesis of Scrooge in the story. Thus, Dickens created a symbolic character to emulate the Lower classes. He is treated so unbelievably cruelly by Scrooge, yet, he remains a cheerful man who enjoys his Christmas. Without Fred and Bob, the story would not show that money means nothing in terms of happiness. We meet Fred again at his Christmas party, as people put Scrooge down with horrible but vital words to the moral, His wealth is of no use to him. He dont do any good with it. This action helps us to understand that although Scrooge could give pleasure with the wealth his possesses, he does not and is miserable. Fred helps the reader to understand, by explaining that Scrooge should not be despised but pitied. Fred quietly explained to us the first time we met him, Scrooges money does him no good and that his offences carry their own punishment. Fred is almost the complete opposite of Mr. Scrooge and the scene shows how compassionate he is and how caring he can be. This is important to the story because it gives Scrooge a chance to redeem himself from the mistakes he has made and shows us that someone in the world still cares for him. It also shows us what Scrooge can become, for both Fred and Scrooge come from very similar backgrounds. If Fred can enjoy Christmas, why cant Scrooge? Although Bob is unlike Fred in the sense that they do not own the same amount of money, they are similar when you compare their loving nature. Bob cares so much for his family that when he is told his daughter is not coming for Christmas dinner, his joyous nature collapses and he has a sudden declension of high spirits. Also, when Bob gives a toast to Mr Scrooge his wife insults Scrooge; Even though Scrooge depreciates Bob, Bob honours his authority by standing up for his dignity and demonstrates his loyalty to Scrooge. This character, like Fred, is caring but makes the reader believe that Scrooge is an awful cold-hearted man and to be so hurtful to such a joyful man is inhumane. That is why at the end of the story we understand that scrooge has changed because he now shows that he can also care for these characters and that by giving others money and caring for his workers, one of the morals of this story is explicated. Such an important personality cannot be missed for many of the morals throughout these staves. The importance of these characters cannot be put on a scale, but I can say that these characters are needed for the story to progress and without them; such significant messages cannot be made. I conclude that, although the names of the characters may not matter, the overall situations and characters of Fred and Bob, are pivotal because they show that it does not matter how much money you have, you can still be happy, honour others and make others happy. Fred and Bob are employed by Charles Dickens to show this in antithesis to Scrooge.

Goal Of Becoming A Developed Country Education Essay

Goal Of Becoming A Developed Country Education Essay Malaysia is on the verge of reaching its goal of becoming a developed country by the year 2020 where the people may enjoy high living standards and more competitive in the era of globalization. Developing the potential of individuals which stand on the global platform is the main concern of the country in producing skillful citizens that would become the basis in the transformation of country towards high income economy. The 21st century implies the changes on the demand of skills in order to succeed in job realm as well as in daily life. Individuals need to master the blending of content knowledge, specific skills, expertise and literacy (Partnership for 21st Century Skills, 2007) in their daily life rather than mastering them in isolation. The application of skills is one crucial step for a student to obtain a job in the industrial domain (Pandian, 2005; Wagner, 2008). The 21st Century Skills is a recent skill analogous to soft skills apart from it being more global. In Malaysia, more attention is put on soft skills compared to 21st Century Skills. Soft Skills is a skill which is emphasized in graduates of the present. Realizing the globalization of development in global technology, the education in Malaysia has changed the approach of teaching and learning to ensure effective productivity of individual potential that are knowledgeable and competitive globally. Revolution of technology in the digital era of the 21st century has brought changes in replacing soft skills with the production of individuals whom are equipped with the 21st Century Skills (KPM, 2010). The 21st Century Skills and Soft Skills have similar significance where both could contribute to the success of graduates in the industrial domain. In addition, the 21st Century Skills benefit students knowledge as well apart from its contribution in the industrial domain. The 21st Century S kills is a set of skills which is essential for students in order to succeed in their study, career and life in this century which is full of challenges (Trilling Fadel, 2012). In a technology based learning environment, the 21st Century Skills is an important skill which needs to be there. There are varieties of challenges for 21st century learning in education. Having students to acquire knowledge outside the classroom is essential in the 21st century. The 21st Century Skills is a skill which is far beyond technology skill; it completes students with real life learning skill which would help them to succeed in their profession or career (Krulock Hofreuter-Landini, 2011). Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is an environment which requires the adaptation of 21st Century Skills. Malaysia wishes to release VLE in every school under the Malaysia Ministry of Education (MOE) through 1BestariNet Project by using internet among the school communities. Through this project, it can be affirmed that integration of the 21st Century Skills is a need in realizing a technology based environment due to the important interaction of technology and 21st Century Skills blend ing in the educational world at this point. This is in line with Smart School Strategic Plan, 2011-2015 which in fact is practicing the technological approach in education to produce potential of individuals and capacity development which are skillful and professional in the integration of ICT in management and teaching and learning as well as the 21st Century Skills (MOE, 2011). In order to be outstanding on the universal platform, students of the cyber generation need to be knowledge literate and master the 21st Century Skills (Utusan Malaysia, 2011a). However, research on the integration of the 21st Century Skills in technology based learning environment has not been carried out as this is a new skill which need to be explored and learnt by Malaysian students of this century. According to Pandian (2005), it is important for follow-up research to be carried out in identifying the 21st Century Skills which are needed by the industrial domain in fulfilling the demand of the workforce since skill is an important criterion in obtaining a job. Despite that, there is no research related to the 21st Century Skills been performed yet. This phenomenon causes uncertainties from various parties and issue regarding the assurance for the convention of technology based environment could produce students 21st Century Skills in ensuring their employability after graduation begins to rise. Educators are responsible in playing the role of promoting knowledge and providing practice in order to polish students talent and skills so as to fulfill the demand of the industrial domain and the 21st century. In regard to the issue that arises, the initiative has been taken to help students in mastering the 21st Century Skills in teaching and learning in Malaysia. Integration of the 21st Century Skills in the educational curriculum is a way to ensure students being exposed and able to master the skill (Wagner, 2008). In identifying the learning skill which is needed by students in developing the 21st Century Skills, recommendation for follow-up research need to be carried out (Pandian, 2005). For that reason, the selection of technol ogy as a medium of integration of the 21st Century Skills among the students will be carried out through this research. In the 21st century which is quite similar to the digital era of ICT, skill in using the latest technology has been made an important aspect. ICT is one of the 21st Century Skills that are needed in producing potential of individuals of a global standard in line with the industrial demand apart from its major contribution in the economic sector. In relation to that, it is necessary for the integration of the 21st Century Skills to progress along with the current development of ICT. Both are significant in producing quality future graduates. The effectiveness of integration between technology and 21st Century Skills need to be further observed. The usage of Web 2.0 technologies is not something new for every student. However, the integration of Web 2.0 technologies is a new phenomenon in the learning environment of the educational field. This learning environment gives students the privilege to be in charge of their own learning more proactive in developing knowledge and acquiring skills (Haihong, 2007). Web 2.0 is a term which is newly created. It comprises a collection of web based tools which provides an individual with free social networking services such as blogs, wikis, pictures and videos sharing and others. Web 2.0 technologies encourage users to collaborate with each other and it also gives them the opportunity to amend, summarize and contribute to the production of a document of the content. Web 2.0 technologies are not only used in our daily life, but it is also essential in the industrial domain (Salomon Schrum, 2007). Web 2.0 is a strategic means of sharing information. Everyone could have access to this great technology which is indeed necessary in almost every task. Revolution of Web 2.0 usage in the learning process is a new revolution in improving students information searching. One could learn and understand techniques or new knowledge technology in the process of learning through the application of Web 2.0 (Wactlar, 2000). Incorporation of Web 2.0 technologies in the integration process of 21st Century Skills knowledge among students is due to the effectiveness of the technology as one of the teaching medium itself (Zhang, 2003; Salomon Schrum, 2007; Berk, 2009). Web 2.0 technologies such as multimedia technology has a dramatic effect on both learning process and product as this learning environment involves a variety of senses which could help in maximizing students potential in retaining the information acquired (Syed, 2001). The research found out that using multimedia could improve ones problem solving skill as full attention is paid to the task given through active, interesting and clear presentation of task using multimedia (Weston B aker, 2001). In spite of that, technology alone is still unable to create a meaningful experience for ones learning. It needs to go together with learning strategies. A student needs to make sure that the learning strategy which is used along with teaching and learning through technology is the main focus (Levine, 2005). This is because different media create different impact. The effectiveness of a technology based learning environment can be measured by looking at how the technology is used, users role, and the learning process itself. A good learning process depends on the knowledge on the principles of practice which are self, students, content and methods (Galbraith, 2004). Integration of Web 2.0 technologies in incorporating 21st Century Skills among students will not be a success without appropriate learning strategies. Self-regulation is important when learning process involves internet based environment (Shen, Lee, Tsai, 2007). Preparation of a technology based environment among students in incorporating the 21st Century Skills has a high probability to be ineffective if students themselves do not have the skills to be responsible for their own learning, learning strategies need to be integrated and practiced in preparing students towards achievement in their studies (Chang, 2005). Zimmerman Schunk (1989) defines Self-directed Learning as a systematic orientation of feeling and action to help students in achieving their aims. On the other hand, Driscoll (2000) claims that self-directive are a skill where students need to decide their aims and manage their own learning as well as their achievement. Students who are equipped with self-directed skill would usually achieve better achievement than those who do not (Zimmerman Martinez-Pons, 1986). This shows that Self-directed Learning strategy plays an important role in students achievement (Zimmerman, 1990). On top of that, concern over the improvement of students also gives a positive impact on students motivation. This is suitable with the Web 2.0 technology based learning which is motivating. Learning which practices Self-directed Learning strategy through Web 2.0 technologies is suitable with the context of technology based environment as students have more control over time and task that is given to them and they have to decide on their own learning strategies (Pintrich, 1995). In contrast, traditional way of learning rarely encourages the development of self-directed learning among students (Orange, 1999). Hence, this research will be focusing on the effort to identify the integration of 21st Century Skills among students using Web 2.0 technologies. This effort is an initiative in developing the usage of technology mechanism concerned such as Web 2.0 technologies in developing the integration of 21st Century Skills among students in line with the demand of industrial domains. This initiative is taken as the phenomenon of the 21st Century Skills which becomes important in the educational field in Malaysia has now been taken into consideration in assisting the implementation of the Smart School Strategic Plan, 2011-2015 in Malaysia. Background of the Study Technology based learning is gaining attention in recent times. This is due to the nature of the technology in todays economy. High demand on k-worker who has the expertise and skills to handle technology in the industry brings about the awareness on the importance of technology. Employees should be given training and education on the use of technology as technology is able to develop employees who work smarter in producing high-quality product and services especially for clients. Information and communication technology skills (ICT) is one of the 21stCentury Skills that is needed in producing a world-class individual in line with the demand of industry and it also offers significant contributions in the economic sector. The ICT industry in Malaysia is expected to generate U.S. $14.1 billion (RM43.71 billion) in 2012 (Utusan Malaysia, 2011b). This is an era of globalization which based on knowledge and k-economy. Therefore, adaptation of the fundamental principles of education needs to be implemented in order to cope with the current situation. The information technology which is growing so rapidly made it necessary for the Malaysian education to introduce and use computers. Education in this era of information is more concerned with the practice of ICT in teaching and learning process (Glancy Isenberg, 2011; Gill Dalgarno, 2008). Thus, in order to meet the challenges in this digital era, Malaysia has embarked on a paradigm shift in line with the development of ICT. The aim of Malaysia towards developing economy through ICT has enhanced the empowerment of the use of ICT in various sectors such as commerce, industry, education, health, and in all aspects of life. The implementation of the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC), which has seven applications of ICT-related activities in various sectors as major projects in Malaysia provides a platform and environment that can encourage and enhance the use of ICT can encourage change to promote this country towards a digital era which is global in the 21st century. Education is seen as an important sector in introducing the use of ICT. Integration of ICT has become important in the educational field particularly. Based on The Development of Education report by MOE in year 2004, MOE hopes that ICT could improve teaching and learning by promoting activities such as video conferencing and the Internet as a common practice in the Malaysian schools. It is expected that in 10 years time, the development of ICT infrastructure will be intensified by expanding access and equity for ICT facilities; develop ICT-based curriculum; and improve evaluation as well as the evaluation system using ICT. Thus, Computer Literacy, Smart Schools, and Computers in Education, which has become one of the agenda in promoting ICT in schools, are implemented. Smart School is a school which emphasizes the application of ICT as pedagogy and in the school management. Use of ICT in school management as well as teaching and learning process is a noble effort of the Ministry of E ducation Malaysia (MOE) in promoting integration and its optimal use among the school community. Malaysias effort in the integration of ICT is developing with the implementation of the 1BestariNet Project in January 2012 by the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) for schools with the aim to reform and improve the SchoolNet project. 1BestariNet is an End to End (E2E) computer networking for the purpose of teaching and learning and management and administration of 10, 000 schools for the period of 15 years (1BestariNet, 2012). This project emphasizes on the major component of teaching and learning through internet access and services Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) for the school. This shows that Malaysia is moving towards providing a learning environment with the concept of e-learning in schools. Teachers and students need to develop ICT skills together in order to achieve the aspiration of government in improving ICT through education and mastering the 21st century skill in order to comply with the demand of the current industrial domain. Teachers and students need to be exposed to the skill of using digital media in order to equip themselves in overcoming challenges in the future (Pandian, 2005; Dakich, 2005). Teachers are the main input of students exposure to the skill. A study done by MSC Malaysia suggests that Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) needs to plan for on-going professional development of teachers by providing and enhancing their knowledge and skills which can build their confidence in using the ICT. ICT skills are essential in order to meet the expectations of the country in producing creative and innovative nations with the use of ICT as the catalyst to the development of the countrys economy in achieving the status of developing country by the year 2020 (Ngah Masood, 2006; Park, Roman, Lee, Chung, 2009). In the context of vocational education, ICT is seen as having a great potential in providing students a broader acquisition of knowledge where students can learn something insightful and meaningf ul in line with the demands of the industry and the main aim of the Smart School Strategic Plan, 2010-2015 (KPM, 2010). Use of the Internet such Web 2.0 technology which provides services such as Facebook, Twitter, wikis, Blogs, YouTube and others has great potential to be used in the classroom and its benefit students learning in the process of teaching and learning (Harris Rea, 2009). Teaching and learning process needs to progress along with the rapid development of information and communication technology. Tradition way of teaching and learning process has now been regarded as irrelevant to the current practice (Marold, Larsen, Moreno, 2000). Current teaching methods need to be more flexible (Zhang, 2003). Traditional way of learning has now been adapted with technology based learning such as the use of video and text in lesson that simulates students participation in the real world (Beard, Wilson, McCarter, 2007). Web 2.0 provides a new alternative in shifting the traditional teaching and learning environment towards technology based education though E-learning environment which focuses on lifelong learning and on-demand learning (Zhang, Zhao, Nunamaker, 2004). E-learning has now become one of the evolutions in the educational field where information could be shared instantly and it becomes a medium of integration of learning materials which is effective, ef ficient, immediate and more economical (Ong, Lai, Wang, 2004). In the context of education, research on the use and impact of e-learning shows positive improvement (Akaslan Law, 2010). ICT in vocational education is an idea that is still new in Malaysia and it is not impossible to be implemented with the effort of the Ministry of Education Malaysia in providing a technology-based learning environment which involves the Technical and Vocational Education Division in the development of individuals. Lambert Cuper (2008) stated that students are exposed to the latest technology such as internet, computers, mobile phones, social networks and others since their early age. Therefore, it is not surprising that students will be able to understand the learning content delivered through simulations, video and audio as technology helps them to learn effectively (North Central Regional Educational Laboratory [NCREL] Metiri Group, 2003). Each student has different ways and the ability to acquire knowledge in the learning process. Thus, it is unfair if we a ssume that all students will be able to acquire knowledge at the same time, in the same manner and with the same method used in the past and provides the same effect in the world of learning today (Berk, 2009).The use of technologies such as visual, audio, graphics and simulation have significant effects on the students. As a result, students need an interactive teaching and learning process in helping them develop the knowledge. Educators need to have an effort in learning to use new technology in order to meet the demand of students in the 21st century. Through the use of Web 2.0 technologies, it brings benefits in the aspect of time and learning location, students motivation, facilitate basic skills acquisition among students and it could improve teacher trainees skills in a way which is effective and economical (Haddad Jurich, 2002; Brecht Ogibly, 2008). Integration of Web 2.0 technologies in teaching and learning process is one of the alternatives for the use of e-learning in education. Web 2.0 technologies provide various advantages for the students (Zhang, Zhou, Briggs, Nunamaker, 2006; Schmerbeck, 2000; Salomon, Perkins, Globerson, 1991). In the context of this research, Web 2.0 technologies are used in the teaching and learning process in order to inculcate 21st Century Skills among students. This approach is taken due to rapid advancement of ICT today and the changes of the 21st century students themselves. Todays younger generation, especially students are getting more occupied by the current world development of technology. Prensky (2001a) stated that students nowadays are the digital natives where they are born, grow and communicate using digital technology throughout their lives. It seems that technology and students cannot be separated because they grew up in an environment which is well equipped with the use of computer s, video games, digital music, mobile phones, e-mail, internet and others. Students of this era show significant differences due to the rapid development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) that is happening throughout the world. Students of this generation have undergone a radical transformation. They could no longer receive teaching and learning activities which are traditionally proposed by the earlier education system. Transformation in the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the teaching and learning process is seen as an important aspect of the education today. Students understand the learning content delivered via simulations, video and audio better for the use of this technology can help them more effectively (North Central Regional Educational Laboratory [NCREL] Metiri Group, 2003). The concept of Web 2.0 technologies is not something new, but it is taking a new form of approach to be used in the teaching and learning process. The use of Web 2.0 technologies such as interactive video has been widely used in institutions of higher learning which is more on adult learning (Glancy Isenberg, 2011). Adaptation of Web 2.0 technology approach in learning environment for students in Malaysian schools will be conducted. Web 2.0 technology-based learning is still believed to have a profound impact on education despite the fact that this approach has limitations in terms of teaching and learning delay among students (Song Hill, 2007). This is due to the online learning environment itself which allows students to have full control over their own learning compared to the traditional learning (Elvers, Polzella, Graetz, 2003). Besides, the usage of Web 2.0 technologies is actually fostering self-directed learning among students (Song Hill, 2007). Self-directed learning allows a student to have the initiative and high self-motivation in the success of their learning. Self-directed learning is capable of nurturing individual skills among students. It also provides students room in planning, monitoring and evaluating their own learning. The success of online learning depends on the learning strategies used (Hill, 2002) as well as the students high level of motivation (Shapley, 2000). Therefore, the integration of Web 2.0 technologies with the emerging of self-directed learning in developing 21st Century Skills among students is in line with the demand of the industry domain of the 21st century is an alternative to ensure the effective use of technology in teaching and learning process can be achieved. However, the doubt on the effectiveness of Web 2.0 technologies in developing the 21st Century Skills is still unanswered. Development of information and communication technology has brought changes in Malaysia in various sectors, particularly in improving the education and economy sector (Salman Hasim, 2011). Various efforts have been made by the education sector in producing a workforce which could contribute in the Malaysian industrial sector, in line with the rapid development of current technology. Achievement in producing a variety of technological facilities in the education sector has begun to develop rapidly. However, will this technology help in improving students skills in line with the demands of the industry is still uncertain. The 21st Century Skills need to progress along with the current technology. This is because both elements are important aspects of todays digital era. However, todays graduates are facing problem in the lack of knowledge in information technology field (The Star, 2004). Knowledge of information technology is important in the 21st century. Students are not able to get jobs because they fail to exhibit their skills (Quek, 2005; Hussin, Zakaria, Salleh, 2008). Presenting a skill will not be successful if the person does not have the knowledge of the skill. Through this research, the production of 21st Century Skills which is becoming more important will be adapted and improved through the use of Web 2.0 technologies in ensuring that students who use this technology would indirectly be practicing the 21st Century Skills. Through the use of technology, students gain knowledge in skills such as solving complex tasks and make quick decisions (Prensky, 2006). This is due to the use of technology such as video games, music and others which require them to think and move fast. Students abilities will not bring significant benefits if it is not imparted in classroom teaching (Berk, 2009). Therefore, the use of Web 2.0 technologies in teaching and learning process is a recommended alternative in bringing benefits for teachers and students (Berk, 2009). Web 2.0 technologies are an innovation in e-learning. This innovation should be practiced by teac hers and students in teaching and learning activities. However, the use and acceptance of Web 2.0 technology among teachers and students is still unknown. An innovation of technology will not bring much knowledge to the consumer if the factor of acceptance is not identified (Glancy Isenberg, 2011; Rogers, 2003). This 21st Century Skills can actually be improved from time to time. Sanders Morrison-Shetlar (2000) stated that the integration of ICT in teaching and learning process not only enhances students achievement, but it also improves their skills such as critical thinking skills and problem solving skills which are skills needed in the 21st century. ICT has great potential in producing students equipped with the 21st Century Skills. Students of the 21st century need skills such as: 1) study skill and innovation (including the skills of creativity and innovation, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as communication and collaboration skills , 2) information and communication technology (ICT) skills (includes information literacy, media literacy, as well as information, communication and technology literacy skills), 4) life and career skills (including flexibility and adaptability, initiative and self-directed, social and cross-cultural, productivity and accountability skills as well as leadership and responsibility skills) (Partnership for 21st Century Skills, 2007). This is in line with Malaysias vision of producing potential of individuals who are equipped with the 21st Century Skills which is global in preparing students for the future. Employers in Malaysia need graduates, who are equipped with skills such as communication skills, problem solving skills, computer literacy, teamwork and management skills.The demand of employers in Malaysia towards the desired quality of graduates is still an issue today. Educational institutions have been given the responsibility to produce graduates who have 21st Century Skills as well apart from technical skills with the aim to produce outstanding individuals. However, educational institutions are still having problems in realizing the demand (Suratman Mohd Rosli, 2010). As mentioned, the problems encountered in information and communication technology are strongly related with the development of 21st Century Skills among students. E-learning which is already being practiced in institutions of higher education actually has a great potential in developing students 21st Century Skills (Jones Fitzgibbon, 2006). In spite of that, the method and approach in integrating e-learning wit h the development of 21st Century Skills need to have proper planning. The elimination of e-learning from students skills development agenda is a big mistake made now (Jones Fitzgibbon, 2006). Teachers need to play a role in the integration of 21st Century Skills through the use of Web 2.0 technologies. Teachers need to adopt ICT technology and apart from that, adaptation and innovation need to be done as well. This is a challenge taken in producing skilled manpower in the economy in realizing Vision 2020 and to create a learning environment that is compliant with the 21stcentury. With the current development of technology, Malaysia has moved towards producing k-worker which emphasizes the skills and expertise to handle technology in the industry. Economic revolution has brought demand on a new and different set of skills such as innovation, communication, interaction, and so forth. The current education system needs to take a paradigm shift in producing students who are in line with the 21st century and not simply producing workforce but not in accord with the current demand of industry. However, there is still not much research is related to this issue among students either within or outside the country. Therefore, a study should be conducted to survey the implementation of that strategy. This is an effort to help the education sector in producing skillful students in line with the demand of industry to fulfill the need for workforce who are successful in their studies apart from their achievement in their careers. The aim of this research is to identify to what extend the use of Web 2.0 technologies-based Virtual Learning Environment (WVLE) in teaching and learning process and could 21st Century Skills be instilled among students through WVLE. Limitations of this study are as listed below: Time constraint The duration of time given to finish this research is 6 months; this limits the collections of the data because of problems likely to arise during collecting the data. Because of the constraint, the data cannot be accurately evaluated. Cost constraint The researcher will have financial constraint if all of the schools in Malaysia were included in this study. This is because researcher needs to choose a random location to carry out observation on respondents. Therefore, only selected schools will involve in this study depend on the location of the schools. Probity constraint In the quantitative phase of study there is a potential risk of a non-response error i.e. problems caused by differences between those who respond and those who do not in the event of a low response rate (Dillman, 2000). Besides, the researcher also has the risk in trusting the data collected from the respondent because of the sincerity factor. Distance constraint The distance between researcher and respondents is one of the limitations in this study. The researcher can only select nearest schools as the study location in order to collect data directly from the respondents. Population constraint Because of the convenience sampling will be used in the quantitative phase of the study, the researcher cannot state with confidence that the sample will be representative of the population (Creswell, 2002). While in the qualitative phase of the study, researcher only can select a few students from nearest schools to be the respondents. This is because researcher needs to collect data directly from the respondents. This study would be significant in a number of ways. The significance of this study is closely related to the benefits or contribution obtained through the study. The contributions of the study are as listed below: Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Introduces and defines the concept of VLE, discussing how a VLE differs from the traditional classroom and differentiating it from related, but narrower.Students need a transformation in their studies, from traditional to online learning in obtaining a more effective learning experience (Mezirow, 1990). This research can help in identifying whether a VLE can be created more effectively with the integ

Self-Determination: Right or Privilege? :: essays research papers

In 1968, the Soviet Union along with several Warsaw Pact allies invaded Czechoslovakia with the intention of re-establishing a full communist government. The reason for the invasion was mainly due to â€Å"Prague Spring† – the period of great hope for the Czech people led by the reform movement against the hard-line policies of the Czech and Soviet governments. The main justification given by Soviet Premier Brezhnev regarding the attack was that the USSR, a communist nation itself, had an obligation to stop anything that poses a threat to established communism in any country. This came to be known as the â€Å"Brezhnev Doctrine†, and was seen as a clear warning to other eastern European countries. This example is one of many in history that has raised the issue of whether or not great nations are justified in exerting influence over the affairs of lesser states. The issue of whether or not great nations are justified in exerting influence over the affairs of lesser states is extremely complex. Some people believe that powerful nations are not only justified but obligated to play an important role in the affairs of states that do not measure up in status or power. The main reason being that these states do not have the capabilities to handle their domestic and foreign policies without external influence of some kind. Others believe that every nation has the sovereign right to formulate domestic and foreign policies without external influence. Both groups of people are right to an extent. I do not think that the power of a nation justifies their interference in the affairs of other countries unless they influence the country for the better. Basically, great nations should never attempt to influence the affairs of lesser states if they are only looking out for their own self-interests. In the 1968 invasion of Czechoslovakia, the Soviet Union was not truly threatened by the reform movement. The USSR was just not prepared to take risks with a country bordering on the West. Their main concerns were their sphere of influence as well as Czechoslovakia being one of their satellite states that provided them with a buffer zone against an attack from NATO. Therefore, Czechoslovakia played an important role for political, economic, and strategic military reasons. It was imperative that it remained under Soviet influence because if not, the balance of power would be in favour of the U.S.

Its Time to Reform American Health Care :: Argumentative Persuasive Essays

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Health care advancements in America are notably the best in the world. We continually strive for preventions and cures of diseases. America has the best medical scientists and physicians that specialize in their medical fields. According to Joseph A. Califano Jr. (2003), "what makes America health care system great is its ability to attract the finest minds in our society," that can help the sick by preventing and curing medical complications. (p. 18). We are noted worldwide for our medical care and physicians from other countries jump at the opportunity to join the American medical system.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  However, our system is based on money. The more money you have to spend, the better medical services you will receive. ?According to the Bureau of Labor education at the university of main (2003), America spends more money oh health care than any other nation, "$4,178 per capita on health care in 1998?, compared to the average of $1,783. (BLE., 2003, p.23). Still an estimated "42.5 million Americans are living without health insurance", which prevents them from receiving medical treatment. (Climan, Scharff, 2003, p.33). The numbers of un-insured Americans continue to rise. Tim Middleton (2002) states, ?insurance premiums grow at a rate greater than wages,? when you have a low-income job. ( ¶ 9). With our current economy recession, taxes are rising and small business employers are unable to purchase health plans for their employees. Employees are realizing that they are unable to gain insurance from their jobs and beginning to speak out about the high price of he alth care.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The American Medical Student Association (2004) stated that ?Between 1945 and 1970, America?s economy was strong and booming?, they owned about 60% of the world profit.? ( ¶13). During this time employers were able to cover their employees and the employers were also able to ?write off the health insurance as tax-deductibles for the company.?(AMSA, 2004,  ¶ 11 ). As time progressed our economy began to unravel.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  During the 70?s the world entered a recession because ?the cost of economic growth of other industrialized nations began to rise rapidly?, the United States felt the effect. (AMSA, 2004,  ¶ 14). With the development of other nations, came lose of industrial production for the United States of America. American Medical Student Association (2004) stated ?In 1950 we had 60% and by 1980 we only claimed 30% of the world production?, this brought higher prices as well as loses of jobs.

Third World Dependency on First World

ECONOMIC GROWTH: A COMPELLING MOTIVE TO DEPENDENCY â€Å"Is Third World dependency on First World development, practices, and funding avoidable? † By Michael John A. San Roque ABS681M G01 Submitted to: Dr. Ma. Elena Chiong-Javier October 9, 2012 Countries of the world have been sharply divided along development. Countries that are economically buoyant, technologically advanced, and politically stable are termed ‘Developed Countries’ or ‘First World’.On the other hand, countries that are technically and economically backward and are world market’s suppliers of primary commodities are tagged ‘Developing Countries’ or commonly referred to as ‘Third World’ (Aluko & Arowolo, 2010). During the post-world war and until now, Third World countries depend greatly on First World in order to restore and improve their agricultural, technological, political, and economic conditions which are apparently known as development (Patterso n, 1999).This development has connoted at least one thing: to escape from the undignified condition called underdevelopment (Esteva, 1992). No country would say that she doesn’t want development to occur in her lands. Third World countries are â€Å"nothing that wants to be something†. It is, therefore, proper to say that Third World dependency on First World development, practices, and funding is not avoidable. This paper would present the evidences that would support the above notion.The evidences are based on the inevitable support given by Developed Countries in the form of foreign aid, technological, political, and economic advancement that the needy countries lack. Foreign Aid Foreign aid has become a focus and locus in the Third World. The Developing Countries are experiencing the different facets of development problems. First World countries offer aid through investment in the economy of the needy countries, loans, infrastructural development, funding of pover ty-reduction programs, and also through supply of military hardware at subsidised rates.One of the best examples of how a needy economy was not able to refuse a foreign aid was when the US created the The  Marshall Plan  (officially known as the  European Recovery Program,  ERP) that aided  Europe  where the  United States  gave monetary support to help rebuild European economies after the end of  World War II. That quickly revived and integrated European economies into the global economy (Remenyi, 2004). Technology Transfer Third World’s desire to minimize or eradicate the gap that separates their economy to that of the First World makes them receptive to whatever the latter does in order to advance its economy.One thing that Developed Countries have is their sophisticated technology that contributed much to the development of their industrial and agricultural sectors (Remenyi, 2004). The empirical analysis has also shown that the technological capability o f the five richest countries in the world is about 13 times better than that of the five poorest. This technological progress magnetizes the poor countries and makes them realized that if they really want to enjoy the perks of development, they must adopt the advancement in technology of the rich countries (Nazara, 2000).The importance of technology in the industrializing Indonesia’s economic development has been well established. In the era of East-Asia Miracle, the country was regarded as one of the eight economies in the region whose economic growth was founded on technical progress (World Bank, 1994). Political Ideologies The last factor that fosters inevitable dependency of Developing Countries to Developed Countries is their outstanding and influential political ideologies. The world has seen how the excellent governance and political principles brought prosperous economy to rich countries especially the United States.The liberation of countries political mind has been necessary to break the chains of underdevelopment. This has become the stimulus for the poor countries to shift from tribal forms of authority to suffrage, political parties, elected representatives, and democratization. It also paved the way for the adoption of the policy-making strategies, economic-boosting techniques, and the integration of Third World countries to global economy (So, 2011) Dependency: Contemporary Way to Economic DevelopmentThe dependency of underdeveloped countries and domination of the developed ones are reinforced as the Third World states attempt to expand their economies (Patterson,1999). In pursuit of this endeavor, the Developing Countries has opened their hands to aid, practices, and ideologies that the economically, politically, and technologically successful countries are offering making Third World dependency unavoidable. REFERENCES Aluko, F. & Arowolo, D. (2010). Foreign aid, the Third World’s debt crisis and the implication for economic devel opment: The Nigerian experience.Retrieved from http://www. academicjournals. org/ajpsir/pdf/pdf2010/April/Aluko%20and%20Arowolo. pdf Esteva, G. (1992). The Development Dictionary: A guide to knowledge as power. New Jersey: Zed Books Ltd. Ferraro, V. (1996). Dependency Theory: An Introduction. Retrieved from http://marriottschool. net/emp/WPW/pdf/class/Class_6-The_Dependency_Perspective. pdf Nazara, s. (2000). The Contribution of Technology in Economy: The Decomposition of Output Differentials in 1995-2000 Indonesian IRSAM. Retrieved from http://www. iioa. rg/pdf/Intermediate-2006/Full%20paper_Prihawantoro__Nazara. pdf Patterson, T. (1999). The Cold War, decolonization, and Third World development. In T. C. Patterson, Change and development in the twentieth century (pp. 113-150). Oxford: Berg. Remenyi, J. (2004). What is Development? In D. Kingsbury et al. , Key issues in development (pp. 22-44). NY: Palgrave Macmillan So, A. (2011). The Dependency And World-Systems Perspective. Retr ieved from http://www. eolss. net/Sample-Chapters/C04/E6-99A-36. pdf World Bank (1993).

Maternity Leave Essay

Maternity leave benefits is found under the Article 133 of the Labor Code and Section 14-A of â€Å"Social Security Act of 1997†³ (Republic Act No. 8282). Checklist for Availment of Maternity Benefits under Social Security Act The pregnant woman employee must have paid at least three monthly contributions within the 12-month period immediately preceding the semester of her childbirth or miscarriage. She has given the required notification of her pregnancy through her employer if employed, or to the SSS if separated, voluntary or self-employed member. Maternity Leave Under Article 133(a) of the Labor Code, â€Å"Every employer shall grant to any pregnant woman employees who has rendered an aggregate service of at least six months for the last twelve months, maternity leave of at least two weeks prior to the expected date of delivery and another four weeks after normal delivery or abortion, with full pay based on her regular or average weekly wages.† From the above provision, a qualified pregnant woman employee shall be entitled maternity leave of at least two weeks prior to expected date of delivery and another four weeks after normal delivery or abortion. That’s a total of six weeks maternity leave. (Note: Article 133, particularly provisions pertaining to benefits and procedure for availment, must give way to Social Security Act.) Leave extension Maternity leave may be extended on account of illness arising out of the pregnancy, delivery, abortion or miscarriage, which renders the woman unfit for work. Extended maternity leave is without pay, but may be charged against any unused leave credits. Maternity Benefits under SSS Law A pregnant woman member of SSS who has paid at least three monthly contributions in the twelve-month period immediately preceding the semester of her childbirth or miscarriage shall be paid a daily maternity benefit. Amount SSS maternity benefit shall be equivalent to 100% of the pregnant employee’s average daily salary credit for 60 days, or 78 days in case of caesarian delivery. Time of payment The full payment of maternity benefits shall be advanced by the employer within 30 days from the filing of the maternity leave application. Who makes the payment The SSS shoulders the payment of maternity benefits. But the procedure is that the payment is to be initially advanced by the employer, subject to immediate reimbursement by SSS. Checklist for Availment The pregnant woman employee must have paid at least three monthly contributions within the 12-month period immediately preceding the semester of her childbirth or miscarriage. She has given the required notification of her pregnancy through her employer if employed, or to the SSS if separated, voluntary or self-employed member. â€Å"3-monthly Contribution† Illustration To avail of maternity benefits, the woman employee must have paid at least three monthly contributions within the 12-month period immediately preceding the semester of her childbirth or miscarriage. A semester refers to two consecutive quarters ending in the quarter of contingency; A quarter refers to three consecutive months ending March, June, September or December. To illustrate, assume that the projected date of delivery is March 2010. The semester of childbirth would be from October 2009 to March 2010. This is called the semester of contingency. Count 12 months backwards starting from the month immediately before the semester of contingency, which is September 2009. Hence, the 12-month period immediately preceding the semester of childbirth or miscarriage is from October 2008 to September 2009. To avail of the benefits, the employee must have paid at least 3 monthly contributions during this period. Note that this requirement supersedes Article 133, which requires that the woman employees must have rendered an aggregate service of at least six months for the last twelve months. Valid marriage not required Unlike in paternity leave where valid marriage is a requisite for availment, the existence of a valid marriage is not required to avail of maternity leave benefits. Limitation on Availment Entitlement to maternity leave under the Labor Code and maternity benefits under the SSS Law applies only for the first four delivery. Bar to recovery of sickness benefits. That payment of daily maternity benefits is a bar to the recovery of SSS sickness benefits for the same period for which daily maternity benefits have been received. Effect of Failure of Employer to Remit Contribution. If the employer fails to remit the required contributions, or to notify SSS of the time of the pregnancy, the employer shall pay to the SSS damages equivalent to the benefits which said employee member would otherwise have been entitled to. Tax Treatment of Meternity Benefit Maternity benefits advanced by employer to employee are excluded from gross income and thus exempt from withholding tax. Under the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC), all â€Å"benefits received from or enjoyed under the Social Security System in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act No. 8282†³ shall not be included in gross income and shall be exempt from taxation. (Section 32 [B][6][e], NIRC) What You Should Know About Maternity Leave Benefits in the Philippines? Maternity Leave Benefit in the Philippines varies depending on your employment. This article only covers employees from the private sector . According to Book III Title III Chapter 1 of the Philippine Labor Code [Presidential Decree No. 422, as Amended]: ART. 133. Maternity leave benefits. – (a) Every employer shall grant to any pregnant woman employee who has rendered an aggregate service of at least six (6) months for the last twelve (12) months, maternity leave of at least two (2) weeks prior to the expected date of delivery and another four (4) weeks after normal delivery or abortion with full pay based on her regular or average weekly wages. The employer may require from any woman employee applying for maternity leave the production of a medical certificate stating that delivery will probably take place within two weeks. (b) The maternity leave shall be extended without pay on account of illness medically certified to arise out of the pregnancy, delivery, abortion or miscarriage, which renders the woman unfit for work, unless she has earned unused leave credits from which such extended leave may be charged. (c) The maternity leave provided in this Article shall be paid by the employer only for the first four (4) deliveries by a woman employee after the effectivity of this Code. Furthermore, Republic Act No. 7322 AN ACT INCREASING MATERNITY BENEFITS IN FAVOR OF WOMEN WORKERS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 14-A OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 1161, AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES states: SECTION 1. Section 14-A of Republic Act No. 1161, as amended, is further amended to read as follows: SEC. 14-A. Maternity Leave Benefit. – A covered female employee who has paid at least three monthly maternity contributions in the twelve-month period preceding the semester of her childbirth, abortion or miscarriage and who is currently employed shall be paid a daily maternity benefit equivalent to one hundred percent (100%) of her present basic salary, allowances and other benefits or the cash equivalent of such benefits for sixty (60) days subject to the following conditions: (a) That the employee shall have notified her employer of her pregnancy and the probable date of her childbirth which notice shall be transmitted to the SSS in accordance with th e rules and regulations it may provide; (b) That the payment shall be advanced by the employer in two equal installments within thirty (30) days from the filing of the maternity leave application: (c) That in case of caesarean delivery, the employee shall be paid the daily maternity benefit for seventy-eight (78) days; (d) That payment of daily maternity benefits shall be a bar to the recovery of sickness benefits provided by this Act for the same compensable period of sixty (60) days for the same childbirth, abortion, or miscarriage; (e) That the maternity benefits provided under this Section shall be paid only for the first four deliveries after March 13, 1973; (f) That the SSS shall immediately reimburse the employer of one hundred percent (100%) of the amount of maternity benefits advanced to the employee by the employer upon receipt of satisfactory proof of such payment and legality thereof; and (g) That if an employee should give birth or suffer abortion or miscarriage without the required contributions having been remitted for her by her employer to the SSS, or without the latter having been previously notified by the employer of the time of the pregnancy, the employer shall pay to the SSS damages equivalent to the benefits which said employee would otherwise have been entitled to, and the SSS shall in turn pay such amount to the employee concerned.† SEC. 2. Nothing in this Act shall be construed as to diminish existing maternity benefits under present laws and collective bargaining agreements. SEC. 3. All laws, executive orders, prodamations,.presidential decrees, rules and regulations, and other issuances, or parts hereof, inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. SEC. 4. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) national newspapers of general circulation, whichever comes earlier. In short, you are entitled to a 60 days maternity leave (78 if you had a caesarean delivery) provided that: 1. you have notified your employer of your pregnancy including your estimated delivery date; 2. you are an active SSS member and employee at the time of your delivery; 3. you have paid a minimum of three month contribution to SSS within the 12-month period prior to your delivery (miscarriage); and 4. this is your first, second, third or fourth pregnancy (and/or miscarriage) So remember, Once you’ve confirmed your pregnancy (usually once you’ve got your first ultrasound), make sure to file the necessary papers to notify your company. This is around 6-8 weeks of pregnancy. It’s very important that you file early so you can avail of your benefits should anything happen to you like miscarriage or other complication that would require you to take an early leave. File your maternity leave early. Your company is mandated by law to give you your maternity benefit within 30 days of filling. They usually release advance payment before your leave if you file it on time. Otherwise, you might have to after giving birth. Company may have other policies about maternity benefits, so make sure to review your contract and talk to your company’s HR personnel so know what you’re entitled to. Also once you’ve given birth, don’t forget to submit all the necessary documents to your HR so they can submit them to SSS for reimbursement. You would need to submit following: SSS Form MAT-1 and MAT-2, your child’s birth certificate, your SSS ID, obstetrical history and operating record for caesarean delivery. The SSS forms are available in your HR department or you can get a copy at sss.gov.ph. The full list of requirements is also available in the site. When I posted about maternity leave benefits in my old blog, a lot of people ask why some of them got less than their 60-day salary. The maternity benefit you are entitled as an SSS member is 100% of your average daily salary credit multiplied by 60 (78) days. The details of the computation can be found here. You’ll also see there that the maximum salary credit per day is around Php 500 so at most, you’ll be able to receive around Php 30,000 for normal delivery and Php 39,000 for caesarean delivery. Self-employeed SSS members and also voluntary SSS members are also entitled to this same SSS Maternity Benefits as long as they meet the requirements mentioned above. The only difference is they do the filing and notification directly to SSS. I work in the government sector. Am I entitled to maternity leave? Every pregnant employee is entitled to maternity leave but the conditions change depending on several factors. If you are a government employee, you are allowed to take a maternity leave of 60 calendar days with pay, whether you deliver via normal or cesarean delivery. You are also entitled to maternity benefits in full if you have been working for your government office or agency for at least two years. If you have rendered service for more than a year but less than two years, you will receive maternity benefits in proportion to your length of service. (And half-pay if you have been working there for less than one year.) Maternity leave covers both childbirth and miscarriage. The law provides minimum requirements that you can expect from your employer. Talk to your human resources manager or administrative officer to find out if your employer provides greater maternity benefits than the required minimum. Read your employment contract or collective bargaining agreement carefully and see what it says about your employer’s policy on maternity leaves and benefits. I work for a private company. What maternity benefits am I entitled to? A private sector employee is entitled to take a leave with full pay for 60 calendar days (for normal delivery) or 78 calendar days (for cesarean delivery) as long as certain conditions are met: * You are an SSS member employed at the time of delivery or miscarriage. * You have previously notified your employer about your pregnancy and due date. * You have paid at least three monthly contributions to the SSS within the 12-month period preceding your semester of childbirth or miscarriage. * Understand that you can claim maternity benefits only for your first four deliveries, including miscarriages. What do you mean by semester of childbirth? This is the six-month period prior to your giving birth. For example, if you expect to give birth in June 2012, your semester of childbirth is the period from January 2012 to June 2012. What about the three monthly contributions preceding the semester of childbirth? SSS requires that in the 12 months preceding your semester of childbirth (if you’re due in June 2012, then the period is January to December 2011), you should have paid at least 3 monthly contributions. This 12-month period is important because they will determine how much maternity pay to give you based on your monthly salary during this 12-month period. SSS has a formula for computing your maternity benefit using your six highest monthly credits. What do I have to submit to my employer? Make sure that you: * Give your employer a notice of your pregnancy and due date by submitting SSS Form MAT-1(Maternity Notification Form) at least 60 days from the time you know about your pregnancy and proof of pregnancy, such as laboratory test results, ultrasound report and a medical certificate from your doctor. Your employer will then submit these documents to the SSS. * Maternity leave covers both childbirth and miscarriage. The law provides the minimum requirements that you can expect from your employer. Some companies give more than the minimum requirements. Talk to your human resources manager or administrative officer so you’ll know what your company offers. It would be good to read your employment contract or collective bargaining agreement and learn more about your employer’s policy on maternity leaves and benefits. Your company’s maternity policy may be better than the legal minimum. Thus your entitlements could be different from those of your colleagues or friends working for other companies. Find out exactly what your entitlements are by contacting: * your human resources or personnel manager * your labor union representative * the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office in your place of work Before taking maternity leave File your maternity leave application a few weeks before the start of your leave. You will want to give your employer enough time to make arrangements and ensure that the company is not affected by your absence. The common practice is to go on leave two weeks before your due date so you can have enough time to prepare for the birth of your child. How do I claim my SSS maternity benefits? You may claim your SSS maternity benefits directly from your employer in full within 30 calendar days from the filing of your maternity leave application. Your employer is required to pay the amount of the claim in advance, subject to reimbursement by the SSS. You also need to submit other documents such as: * SSS Form MAT-1 and MAT-2 * your child’s birth certificate * operating room records for cesarean delivery * obstetrical history in cases of miscarriage or abortion * your SSS I.D.