Motivation in Supervision

The term motivation is derived from the Latin verb movere (to move). The idea of movement is reflected in such commonsense ideas about motivation as something that gets us going, keeps us moving, and helps us get jobs done. Conversely, we know we are not motivated when we cannot seem to get out of bed or off the sofa.Despite these commonly held ideas, definitions of motivation are numerous and varied, and there is much disagreement over the precise nature of motivation. Although there is disagreement about the precise nature of motivation, this paper offer a general definition of motivation that is consistent with the cognitive focus of this paper on learners’ thoughts and beliefs and hat captures the elements considered by most researchers and practitioners to be central to motivation. Motivation is the process whereby goal-directed activity is instigated and sustained.Motivation involves goals that provide impetus for and direction to action. Cognitive views of motivation ar e united in their emphasis on the importance of goals. Goals may not be well formulated and may change with experience, but the point is that individuals have something in mind that they are trying to attain (or avoid).Motivation requires activity—physical or mental. Physical activity entails effort, persistence, and other overt actions. Mental activity includes such cognitive actions as planning, rehearsing, organizing, monitoring, making decisions, solving problems, and assessing progress. The activities that students engage in are geared toward attaining their goals.Finally, we highlight that motivated activity is both instigated and sustained. Starting toward a goal is important and often difficult because it involves making a commitment to change and taking the first step. But motivational processes are critically important to sustain action. Many major goals are long-term, for example, earning a college degree, obtaining a good job, and saving money for retirement. Much of what we know about motivational processes comes from studying how people respond to the difficulties, problems, failures, and setbacks they encounter as they pursue goals over time.II. DiscussionA. Motivation Research paradigmsResearchers employ different research paradigms to investigate motivational processes. For example, there is a distinction between correlational and experimental studies. Correlational research deals with relations that exist between variables. A researcher may hypothesize that motivation is positively correlated with (related to) perceived capabilities such that the more confidence individuals have in their learning abilities, the higher is their motivation. To test this relation, the researcher might measure individuals’ perceived capabilities and their motivation as demonstrated on a task. The researcher could statistically correlate the perceived capability and motivation scores to determine the nature and strength of the relation.Pintrich and D e Groot (2000a) conducted a correlational study that explored the relations among motivational, cognitive, and academic performance variables. The motivational beliefs component assessed three factors: self-efficacy, (perceptions of capabilities), intrinsic value (importance), and test anxiety. The learning strategies component comprised two factors: cognitive strategy use and self-regulation.Correlations among intrinsic value, self-efficacy, strategy use, and self-regulation were positive and significant. Test anxiety showed a significant, negative correlation with self-efficacy; correlations of test anxiety with all other variables were nonsignificant.The researchers also computed correlations among these five variables and measures of academic performance: in-class seatwork and homework, quizzes and tests, essays and reports, grades. Intrinsic value, self-efficacy, and self-regulation correlated positively with academic measures except performance measures; strategy use correlate d positively with all academic performance measures; strategy use correlated positively with academic measures except   for seatwork (nonsignificant); test anxiety was negatively correlated with grades and quiz/test scores.This study was correlational because Pintrich and De Groot looked at the existing relations among variables and did not attempt to alter them. The results show that motivational variables relate in important ways to cognitive factors contributing to classroom success (strategy use-self-regulation) and to measures of academic performance.In an experimental study, the researcher actually alters one or more variables and determines the effects on other variables. A researcher interested in the effects of perceived capabilities could conduct an experimental study by systematically altering these perceptions and gauging the effect on individual motivation. For example, the researcher might have a teacher systematically praise love-achieving individuals to raise their perceptions of capabilities and determine if this increase enhances motivation.Schunk (2002) conducted an experimental study that investigated how forms of effort attributional feedback influenced individuals’ achievement outcomes during learning. Individuals in lower years who lacked subtraction skills received instruction and practice opportunities over sessions. While individuals solved problems individually, an adult proctor periodically walked up to each individual and asked on what page in the instructional packet he or she was working.For some individuals (prior attribution), after they replied with the page number; the proctor linked their progress with effort by remarking, â€Å"You’ve been working hard.† For others (future attribution, the proctor stressed the value of future effort by stating, â€Å"You need to work hard.† Those in third condition (monitoring) were queried but the proctor departed without comment after the individual replied. Individuals in a fourth (control) condition were not monitored.This study was an experiment because Schunk altered the type of feedback individuals received and looked to see whether differential effects on achievement outcomes resulted. Schunk hypothesized, that prior attribution would be the most effective because it supports individuals’ perceptions of their progress in acquiring skills and conveys that they can continue to improve through effort. This prediction was supported.Prior-attribution individuals outperformed individuals in the other conditions on measures of self-efficacy and subtraction skill. Prior-attribution individuals also displayed higher motivation than did future-attribution and control individuals as assessed by the amount of problem solving during the independent practice portions of the sessions. The results of this study suggest that it is better to link individuals’ past success to effort than to stress the future benefits of hard work.Each type of research has advantages and disadvantages. Correlational research helps clarify relations among variables. Correlational findings often suggest directions for experimental research. The positive correlation obtained by Pintrich and De Groot between intrinsic value and academic performance suggests further research exploring whether increasing intrinsic value leads to higher achievement. A disadvantage of correlational research is that it cannot identify cause and effect. The positive correlation between intrinsic value and academic performance could mean that (a) intrinsic value affects academic performance, (b) academic performance influences intrinsic value, (c) intrinsic value and academic performance are each influenced by other, unmeasured variables (e.g., home factors).Experimental research can clarify cause-effect relations. By systematically varying type of feedback and eliminating other variables as potential causes, Schunk (2002) could specify how changes in attrib utional feedback affect achievement outcomes. Clarifying causal relations helps us understand the nature of motivation. At the same time, experimental research is often narrow is scope. Researchers typically vary only a few variables and try to hold all others constant, which is difficult to do and somewhat unrealistic.B. Qualitative/Interpretative ResearchIn recent years, another type of paradigm has gained currency among researchers. The theories and methods used are referred to various labels, including qualitative, ethnographic, participant observation, phenomenological, constructivist, and interpretative (Erickson, 2003).   These approaches differ from one another characterized by intensive study, descriptions of events, and interpretation of meanings. Such a research model is not new in the social sciences, but only recently has it been applied increasingly in supervision.Interpretative research is especially useful when researchers are interested in the structure of events rather than their overall distributions, when the meanings and perspectives of individuals are important, when actual experiments are impractical or unethical, and when there is a desire to search for new potential causal linkages that have not been unearthed by experimental methods, (Erickson, 2003).Moreover, qualitative/interpretive research yields rich sources of data that are much more intensive and thorough than those typically obtained in correlational or experimental research. This research paradigm also has the potential of raising new questions and new slants on old questions that often are missed by traditional methods. Because this approach is not concerned with the aggregation of usable knowledge for teaching practice, it is not a means for providing practical answers to teaching problems (Shulman, 2004).Studies usually are conducted with few participants, which raise the issue of whether findings are reliable and representative of the population being studied. Another c oncern is that if researchers do not attempt to interpret data in light of a theoretical framework, findings may not seem linked and interpretation may prove difficult. Nonetheless, as a research model, this tradition has provided much valuable data in the study of motivation, and its influence will continue to grow.III. ConclusionIn conclusion and in addition to the differences among experimental, correlational, and qualitative research, another distinction exists between laboratory studies conducted in controlled settings and field studies conducted where was conducted in laboratories using such infrahuman species as cats, dogs, and rats. Such research was appropriate given the influence of conditioning theories which contended that common processes occurred in animals and humans and that controlled experiments could help isolate these processes and eliminate extraneous influences. Motivation research also has employed human subjects in controlled laboratory environments. With the increasing emphasis on schooling and other applied settings, however; most current research is conducted in field settings. The Pintrich and De Groot (2000a), and Schunk (2002) studies are examples of field studies.Reference:1.Pintrich, P.R. & De Groot, E. (2000a). Individual differences in early adolescents’ motivation and self-regulated learning. Journal of early Adolescence, 14, 139-161.2.Schunk, D.H. (2002). Extended attributional feedback: Sequence effects during remedial reading instruction. Journal of Early Adolescence, 6, 55-66.3.Erickson, F. (2003). Qualitative methods in research on supervision. In M.C. Wittrock (ED.), Handbook research on supervision (3rd ed., pp. 119-161). New York: Macmillan.4.Shulman, L.S. (2004).   Paradigms and research programs in the study of teachings: A contemporary perspective. In M.C. Wittrock (ED.) Handbook of research on supervision (3rd) ed., pp. 3-36). New York: Macmillan.

Frankenstein or the Monster? (Frankenstein by Mary Shelley) Essay

In Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein, the main character Victor Frankenstein, becomes obsessed with the notion of bringing a human being to life. The result is the creation of a monster only known to us as ‘the monster’. The monster is hideous, and is therefore rejected by Victor and by society to fend for himself. He soon commits many murders, as a result of his dejection, including Frankenstein’s younger brother, best friend and newly wed wife. He also set up the killing of Justine. Frankenstein created the monster and then rejected him, but it was the monster who actually did the killings, who was to blame. To start off with there are obvious similarities between Frankenstein and his creation, both have been isolated, and both start out with good intentions. However, Frankenstein’s ego conquers his humanity in his search for god-like powers. The monster is nothing but gentle until society rejects him and makes him an outcast on account of his deformities. The monster is more humane than his own creator because his immoral deeds are committed in response to society’s corruption, while Frankenstein’s evil work begins from his own selfishness. Frankenstein and the monster are abandoned by their creators at a young age, Frankenstein is left without his mother after her death, and the monster is rejected by Frankenstein. Frankenstein and the monster are also similar in that they are isolated and outcasts of society. Frankenstein is most likely an outcast when he consumes himself in work and is isolated when the monster kills those he loves, and the monster is obviously isolated as an ugly, deformed outcast of society. Therefore Frankenstein seems less human than the monster, he displays this by deserting the monster, declining to visit his family for two years and by declining to save Justine. Frankenstein starts out with good intentions, he is merely seeking to gain knowledge of natural beliefs. Soon, his greed for god-like power overcomes him and he becomes consumed with the idea of creating life, â€Å"Summer months passed while I was thus engaged, heart and soul, in one pursuit† (32). The monster also starts out with kindness, he tells his creator, â€Å"Believe me, Frankenstein: I was benevolent, my soul glowed with love and humanity: but am I not alone, miserably alone?† (66). However, after society refuses to accept him based on personal appearance, the monster becomes angry. The monster has an overwhelming capacity to love as can be seen in his admiration for the peasants, â€Å"The monster’s thoughts now became more active, and he longed to discover the motives and feelings of these lovely monsters†¦ he thought, that it might be in his power to restore happiness to these deserving people† (77). The monster’s display of care and compassion for the cottagers is more humane than most humans are. He retains the innocence and naive characteristics of a child. The monster’s grasp of human-like qualities allows the reader to possess sympathy for his situation, he is a victim and Frankenstein is to blame. A true monster would, by definition, have no emotions or remorse, while Frankenstein’s creation has a very natural, human desire to be loved and accepted, â€Å"Once the monster falsely hoped to meet with beings, who, pardoning his outward form, would love him for the excellent qualities which he was capable of bringing forth†(154). Another human characteristic that the monster holds is his conscience, as can be seen at the end of the book after Frankenstein dies. The monster tells Walton, â€Å"It is true that I am a wretch. I have murdered the lovely and the helpless, I have strangled the innocent as they slept†¦You hate me, but your abhorrence cannot equal that with which I regard myself† (155). Compassion, fear, desire to be accepted, and guilt are all very human emotions and characteristics that the monster displays. While Frankenstein is consumed in his work, he feels none of the emotions that the monster feels in his first years of life, Victor says of himself, â€Å"Winter, spring, and summer, passed away during my labours, but I did not watch the blossom or the expanding leaves- sights which before always yielded me supreme delight, so deeply was I engrossed in my occupation† (33). Frankenstein is obsessed with holding god-like powers, â€Å"I ceased to fear or to bend before any being less almighty than that which had created and ruled the elements† (78). At several points in the book Victor has the chance to prevent harm being done to others, but each time he is only  concerned with himself. It is ambiguous, but Victor could have warned the family, or gone to protect innocent little William. More obviously, he could have spoken up about the monster and saved the life of Justine. Instead, Frankenstein chooses to let Justine die and wallow in his own guilt, â€Å"Anguish and despair had penetrated into the core of his heart† (57). After the monster’s threat, Victor is concerned only about his own life and fails to see the threat to his bride Elizabeth. Victor is weak in love, he has difficulty expressing his feelings and controlling his impulses, and he is self-cantered. Many contrasts can be made between Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Milton’s Paradise Lost. Victor’s character is paralleled directly with Satan’s, both succumb to selfishness when they fall. Much like Satan, Victor is forced to carry his anguish with him constantly, â€Å"Frankenstein bore a hell within himself which nothing could extinguish† (57). The monster is a portrayal of Eve’s role in Paradise Lost. The monster is persuaded by the behaviour of others to take his fall into wickedness, much like Eve was pushed by the serpent to eat the forbidden fruit. Shelley blatantly makes this comparison when Frankenstein gets a first glance of himself in a scene that mirrors Eve’s first look at herself. The monster tells Victor, â€Å"I was terrified when I viewed myself in a transparent pool! At first I stared back, unable to believe that it was indeed I who was reflected in the mirror, and when I became fully convinced that I was in reality the monster that I am, I was filled with the bitterest sensations of despondence and mortification† (108). Despite their similarities, Victor and his creation differ greatly. Only after rejection does the monster turn to evil, while Victor acts out of greed. Victor’s self-centred behaviour affects everyone in the novel, he hurts his family’s feelings, he lets th ose that he loves die, and abandons his own creation. Even the monster couldn’t have committed such horrible acts before the effects of society’s rejection. Frankenstein is mainly to blame for what happened in the novel because he created the monster and then rejected it. If he had shown the monster more fatherly care, the monster would have been more kindly disposed towards the human race. We see the monster’s admiration of the human race at first, with  the De Lacey family, but you can imagine how he must have felt, being excluded from any activity in the world involving humans. The fact that it is Frankenstein’s fault is portrayed in the monster’s innocence and naivety early on. The monster however, did refuse to show human qualities in his mass murdering, he showed no guilt until the end of the book, when he realised what he had done. Frankenstein himself had many opportunities to stop what happened in the book, for instance by finishing off the monster’s female companion. He had a chance to stop Justine’s death, but instead wallowed in his own misery. It is clear that although the monster showed huge brutality with little guilt and did actually commit the crimes, Frankenstein is to blame for what happened in the book because he created the monster, rejected him, and failed to stop the events which resulted, although he had a chance.

Comparing The Bible & Milton's Paradise Lost Essay

Comparing The Bible & Milton's Paradise Lost - Essay Example This inclination to religious themes was manifested in his works prior to Paradise Lost. Some of these works are On the Morning of Christs Nativity, The Passion, and Upon the Circumcision (Luxon). This religious disposition displayed in his works continued after Paradise Lost was published; two examples of his works are Paradise Regained, and Samson Agonistes (Luxon). But among his literary works with religious themes, the best one would be his epic masterpiece, Paradise Lost. However, it would be objectionable to call Milton’s Paradise Lost to be the greatest literary work or the greatest epic of all time. For one, Paradise Lost may be in some way, a copy of the accounts of Moses about man’s first offense against God. The plot from the Bible was adapted in poetry form but Milton intricately laced the story with descriptive details that even include dialogues between Satan and the other rebel angels; narrations about the origin of the world by an angel named Raphael; and conversations between Adam and Eve. Another reason would be its similarities with the early epics Aeneid by Virgil and Iliad by Homer. Paradise Lost is analogous to Virgil’s Aeneid and Homer’s Iliad mainly because of their similarities in their source of inspiration. Other noticeable similarities would be on the plot, the characters involved and the relationships of the characters to each other in the three epics. Before giving further details about Paradise Lost’s similarities with the other two epics, it would be best to know beforehand Milton’s literary basis in writing Paradise Lost and that would be the Bible. The fall of man as accounted in Paradise Lost has some similarities and differences from the Biblical account of the entry of sin in earth. Being based on the Bible, the similarities are very obvious, but the differences require to be discussed. In the

American life Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

American life - Essay Example This act is likely to make health institutions suffer major financial blows due to flooding of Medicaid patients while on the other hand the ordinary citizens are benefiting a lot (Pipes 83). Janny Scott is a journalist by profession who published an article in the New York Times back in 2005 about the three people who were recovering from heart attack. These persons included Jean Miele, Will Wilson, and Ewa Rynczak Gora. Miele was a prominent businessperson and an architect as well with Ewa being a housekeeper whose economic status was unstable. However, this essay will focus on the Miele and Ewa to discuss the effects of social-economic status of the American citizens in recovery and exposure to chronic health risks such as heart attack. Miele was 66 years old, an architect by profession, and a prominent businessperson who was able to get the best treatment during his recovery because of his financial capability. He experienced heart attack while walking on a sidewalk in Midtown Manhattan on his way back to work. Immediately after the attack, he quickly received the emergency care he need urgently and in a private hospital. The article states that Miele was being treated by one of the best cardiologists. He could also get the medical attention as fast as possible (Budrys 85). For example, his arteries were reopened within two hours after the first symptom. All these were significantly contributed by a number of factors such as his level of education, social-economic status his working and living environment among others. The level of education, social class as well as the environment that a person is living are principal factors that determine a lot the rate of recovery of an individual particularly in USA. A patient can easily loose his or her life especially if he or she has come from a poor background where by the family members and friends cannot afford quality medication. This is manifested by the

Enigma and its use of different style Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Enigma and its use of different style - Essay Example Music is â€Å"the art of arranging sounds in time so as to produce a continuous, unified, and evocative composition, as through melody, harmony, rhythm, and timbre.† (Music para 1).The magic brought about by this union of notes is recognized worldwide without a second thought. The cultural traits prevailing in many parts of the world have considerable persuasion from the part of music existing in that community. Music is something that can create magic in the real life in nature. The histories of its success are dated back to ancient times of out of records. The world of existence has bowed in front of the spirit of music from the start date of humans on earth. There are different sectors in the music field as well including the eastern and western; within those there are sub categories as well. In the field of music, we can find a number of troops. The contemporary world has all facilities due to the rapid development in entire sectors of science and technology. But, unavailability of a moral quality underneath is seen worldwide. Music has the real power, often considered as divine, to conquer the hearts and minds of people. The messages through music are given much importance due to this fact itself. Enigma is an identified group of musicians started successfully during the year1990 with the leadership of three people, namely Michael Cretu, David Fairstein and Frank Peterson. It was Michael Cretu who acted in two roles of composer and producer which became a real support to the project along with his beloved wife Sandra who was a very good singer identified for sweet voice. The initial works were based on studio at Spain where Cretu and his crew successfully launched many of their initial album songs. Actual start of the musical project cannot be gummed to the year 1990 as one of the founders Cretu had his homework started from 1970s. The initiative of the project Enigma was introduced only by

Charles darwin Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Charles darwin - Essay Example It was then his interest in plants, animals, insects and geological samples developed when he was under the direction of his cousin William Darwin who was an entomologist; and by the mid of 1830’s Charles had so much excelled in the field that he made certain scientific inventions. He further got motivated by his professor of Botany, Stevens Henslow (Darwin, 42). After the mission of HMS Beagle to Patagonia which was carried under the guidance of his professor; he set his base to continue for his further operations in zoological and geological unearthing (Ruse, 4). By this time Darwin had developed relations with Sir Lyell Charles, which earned him the position of secretary of the Geological Society (Burkhardt,  Pearn& Evans, xiv). Darwin married Emma Wedgwood in 1839. Ruse indicates that at this time Darwin was gaining experience from the Downe where he was spending his life at that time (5). He completely devoted his life to science although he suffered from Chagas’ s disease for a long period of time. It was then that he uncovered the issue of the origin of species and what came to be known as natural selection in the Darwinian Theory. By the end of 1850’s Darwin had made a lot of discoveries and finally he was able to compile all his collections in to a book named as The Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection. Charles’s illness continued and the pro-longed illness cost his life and je died leaving 8 kids behind and numerous discoveries and books. He is greatly remembered for his contribution in evolution theories. He indeed contributed greatly in the field of Science. Darwin’s ideas Darwin is considered as the pioneer of a number of ideologies and theories (Aydon, 22). He covered the issues regarding human kind to racism. Darwin argues that the human beings throughout the years have struggled for their survival. He also proposed the relation between the human body and the mind. He declares that the mind is an ext remely complex body organ and has a direct impact and effect on the various human activities. In fact the mind has a direct relation on the evolution of humankind. Evolution of humankind results in racism. Besides this cultural evolution also takes place as a result of the mind activities. Darwin is also remembered for his thoughts on Protestantism and the church. Human Evolution and Philosophy Since the publishing of the work of The Origin of Species  in 1859 by Darwin, a lot of questions have been asked regarding this theory. The questions have been asked in order to further understand human behavior and the different factors that directly affect the human behavior. Philosophy helps in an understanding of the existence of human beings and the reality behind discovery of varying aspects. It is through philosophy that the humans have been able to comprehend the nature of truth and knowledge on the evolution of human beings. In relation to human evolution, philosophy aids in bringi ng the need to inquire and analyse the speculations, interpretations, analysis and criticism of human evolution. It also helps to establish the nature of relationship between people and their society. Philosophy helps to clarify the concept of evolution. Ruse has presented that in his work Darwin wrote that people are always under a constant struggle for survival, they

Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep - Essay Example What it is to be human is a recurring dilemma that the characters in Do Androids Dream? try to make sense of; and through their actions and the plot itself, the author and readers also navigate this problem. Reaction to the world around them, specifically the display of empathy, is seemingly the most definitive marker of the â€Å"humanness† of human beings. However, one finds that by the end of Do Androids Dream?, this assumption has been turned around on its head and back again many times over. Rather than provide an easy template of humanity for us to accept, Dick uses this novel to instead ask the right questions. The most obvious and repeated assumption is that empathy is what differentiates humans from â€Å"andies† – i.e. androids or humanoid robots that have been created in the post-apocalyptic setting of the novel to help in the process of emigration of humans to Mars. This is reflected in the popular religion: â€Å"Mercerism†, the foundation of which lies on an empathetic worldview and the acceptance of collective experience. Even humans who are relegated to the fringes of society because of their low IQ – â€Å"chickenheads† or â€Å"antheads† – also accept this view of the world. ... Isidore’s need for companionship runs so deep that even though he recognizes that the renegade andies are exploiting him when they take cover in his apartment he lets them stay and even tries to protect them from the bounty-hunter. The androids themselves recognize this quality as that elusive human quality that they cannot achieve. Roy Baty, the leader of the rebel androids, despite his scornful demeanor reveals his longing to experience this at several times, exulting ultimately when Mercerism is declared a fraudulent belief system. Empathy-testing is also the most practical way of detecting androids and â€Å"retiring† or killing them before they can pose any harm to the humans remaining on Earth. As later revealed by Deckard’s rival bounty-hunter Philip Resche, tests other than the Voigt-Kampff Empathy Test, are not nearly as successful in identifying androids. This then is the dominant narrative: Humans empathize, androids do not. However, this statement is not as uncomplicated as it may seem. Firstly, there is the question of being able to duplicate this kind of empathy. As the testing of Rachael Rosen in the first instance proves, even Deckard, for a while, is unable to recognize Rachael as an android when he is fed the story about her having been raised on another planet and therefore being not too adept at empathizing with other humans. Deliberate manipulation of the empathy test can also be done by prevaricating, like in Luba Luft’s case. Luft, who is an android, deliberately refuses to answer questions directly to prevent the test from giving accurate results. Secondly, there is also the question of inherent anomalies in this testing system. As Deckard’s boss, Bryant, warns him at the start of his quest for the six

Princeton Review Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Princeton Review - Essay Example In addition, only one survey for each student per academic year per institution submitted through the prescribed medium like online or properly filled forms, qualifies to be included in the sample data. Q2 The main reason why the results are regarded as being far from scientific, since in a scientific survey, a hypothesis is formed and data is collected to validate or invalidate it. Secondly, a scientific survey driven by data, which is used to show similarities and patterns, and involve observations such as field studies rather than interview question surveys used by Princeton review. Thirdly, scientific survey is conducted on continuous basis and use mathematical calculations supported by physical laws and principles in their fields, but this cannot be applied in Princeton review. Finally, Princeton review does not use non-random samples of the populations in collection of results. For example, if well-known individuals used to conduct such surveys, and this affects the findings as it hinders conducting of objective surveys in the university and does not reflect the views of the whole population thereby not being scientific. Q3 Selection bias occurs when the interviewer selects specific individuals to participate in a survey to represent the whole population. It affects the objectivity of the sample because it makes respondent approve claims that they know are false just to satisfy the interviewer in a survey. This causes twisting of a survey research in the wrong way because of the method used to identify the sample population. For example, in IU, in an attempt to find out whether students get good financial aid from the administration, the interviewer can choose some students who have benefited from the same and this can cause subjectivity in their answers hence creating a wrong view of the university. Q4 Response bias occurs when a survey respondent gives answers that they perceive the interviewer wants to hear not necessarily the truth. This can

How does online shoppers' behaviour differ from traditional shoppers Essay

How does online shoppers' behaviour differ from traditional shoppers (see full queation attch on folder) - Essay Example This essay examines the various factors that influence the differences between traditional shoppers and online shoppers, namely, price awareness or sensitivity, size preference, brand perception or loyalty, economic and non-economic motivations, information availability, impulsiveness, and the buying process. Contents Page Section Title Page Number I. Introduction 5 1.1. Problem Statement 6 1.2 Research Rationale 6 II. Review of Related Literature 7 2.1.Differences between Traditional Shoppers and Online Shoppers 7 2.2. The Buying Process 8 2.3. Impulse Buying 9 2.4. Information Availability and Search Costs 10 2.5. Non-Economic Motives 15 2.6. Economic Motives 19 2.7. Brand Loyalty and Size Preference 21 2.8. Price Awareness/Consideration 23 III. Conclusions 24 I. Introduction In reaction to the rapidly changing and enlarging online business activities, scholarly studies on electronic commerce, or e-commerce, is increasing dramatically, as well. A wide range of research topics has b een studied by scholars from a variety of disciplines. Digital technology has generated new ideas and led to major transformations in people’s communication, interaction, and behaviour. The concept of ‘e-commerce’ mainly denotes the process of information exchange and transactions between commercial entities and consumers (Kim et al., 2002). E-commerce provides retailers new ways of reaching consumers and penetrating markets previously inaccessible. A particular area of research on e-commerce is the difference between consumers’ behaviour online and in traditional shopping contexts. In spite of the dramatic increase of online businesses and well documented rivalry between traditional and online stores, there is a surprising lack of empirical research on behavioural differences between online shoppers and traditional shoppers. According to Close (2012), research subjects on this field are primarily interested in identifying disparities in shoppers’ p urchase behaviour and decision-making processes, and providing interpretations of the discovered behavioural differences. 1.1. Problem Statement Traditional shopping and online shopping have numerous differences, as well as similarities. Online shopping could offer interactive activities, convenience, and expediency, and the traditional or, also referred to as brick-and-mortar, shopping could offer customers actual experience with products and/or services and a more relaxing shopping environment (Hoyer & MacInnis, 2008). Both online and traditional stores are exerting considerable efforts enhancing their services. This essay investigates how online shoppers’ behaviour differs from traditional shoppers. In order to provide a comprehensive analysis of the issue, this essay examines the various factors that influence the differences between traditional shoppers and online shoppers, namely, price awareness or sensitivity, size preference, brand perception or loyalty, economic and non-economic motivations, information availability, impulsiveness, and the buying process. 1.2. Research Rationale This investigation is carried out due to the continuous expansion of e-commerce, which, consequently, influences consumer behaviour. It is important to understand the behavioural differences between traditional shoppers and online shoppers, especially for marketers and entrepreneurs, because such differences are indicative of the strengths and weaknesses of each shopping medium. II.

Legal Aspects of International finance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Legal Aspects of International finance - Essay Example Stock is the type of equity security with which most people are familiar. When investors (savers) buy stock, they become owners of a "share" of a company's assets and earnings. In other words, the companies borrowed directly by issuing securities to investors in the capital markets. By contrast, indirect finance involves a financial intermediary between the borrower and the saver. Emerging market bonds is a Security markets in countries such as Mexico and Malaysia that are still developing their industrial base. Investments in emerging markets entail substantial risk with the potential for above-average returns. The direct or indirect benefits of international trade and finance come primarily from the enlargement of the market and the specialization and more efficient employment of productive resources, as well as technological advances. International transactions involve covenants agreed upon by different countries. The discussion of the paper is about the covenants involved. Debt covenants, also called banking covenants or financial covenants, are agreements between a company and its creditors that the company should operate within certain limits. Debt covenants are agreed as a condition of borrowing. They may be changed if debt is restructured.(www.moneyterms.co.uk). One of the importances of debt covenants is that it can impose heavy obligation. Companies are careful in dealing with the covenant; breach of a debt covenant allows creditors to demand immediate repayment. A breach of covenants usually leads to a renegotiation of the terms of debt. In order to prevent companies from meeting the requirements by adjusting their accounting practices rather than by genuinely maintaining the required level of financial health, debt covenants not only specify the numbers that should be met, but also exactly how they should be calculated for the purposes of the debt covenant. This means that if a company breaches, or is in danger of breaching its debt covenants, not only does this indicate that the company is not financially strong, but also that the problems are likely to become worse as lenders react. The following are reasons why covenants are important: (Noonan, 2005) 1. Covenant protect bondholders against a diminution in value of their investment through: Credit deterioration Loss of "equity cushion" Loss of control over assets Loss of seniority position 2. Covenants increase the chance of capital gains for bondholders because they force the company to Deleverage (or, more accurately, limit the company's ability to releverage) Reinvest earnings The typical restricted payments covenant requires the company to retain 50% of net income in the business and allows 50% to be dividended out to to stockholders 3. As a result, covenants lead to credit improvement which increases chance that bonds will trade above par High Yield Debt Covenant Optional Redemption - Most issues of tax-exempt bonds have "call protection" wherein the bonds may not be called (i.e. redeemed) by the issuer for a specified period after the date of issue. A typical call protection period on a 30 year bond is the first 10 years after the issue date. After the initial period, many tax exempt bonds contain optional redemption provisions which permit the issuer to call the bonds prior

Influence of American Pop Culture and Media Essay Example for Free

Influence of American Pop Culture and Media Essay Pop culture and the media has firmly imbedded itself into the mindset of todays society resulting in people emulating and interpreting as hard fact everything that they see and hear through TV, magazines or radio. This is due to the fact that popular media has becomes a window into the rest of the world for most people because of its availability, entertaining qualities and popularity with a majority of ones pears. This has caused a mindset to develop wherein individuals believe that what they see in the media and what is being espoused in popular culture is what they should be like. As a result what has been created is a culture of emulation wherein people dress like what they see on T. V. and in magazines, act the same way as their idols, develop systems of beliefs based on what they perceive to be the norm and finally go so far as to change their very bodies all in an effort to become what they perceive to be the way they should be as dictated by pop culture and the media. The novel Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury is a depiction of the end result of a cultural attitude of relying too much on popular media as source of information in ones daily life. It portrays a dystopian society where books are illegal and people get all their information from TV or the radio shows resulting in a society where no new ideas are created and suffers from a distinct lack of being able to learn from its mistakes or to think for itself. Compared to todays media based society where people have become increasingly reliant on popular media in the form of TV and radio to nearly the verge of addiction the future described by Bradbury doesnt seem far off. What this paper will seek to examine is the positive and negative effects of popular media on society and how it effects the behavior of society in general. Positive effects of pop culture and the media Cultural Understanding Popular culture and the media has given rise to an assortment of cultural attitudes adopted by different cultures around which are distinctly American. As a result cultures and societies which normally wouldnt have anything to do with the U. S. all of sudden have adopted American customs as their own due the influence of pop culture and the media. This has resulted in the spread of the English language, the creations of a distinct appreciation of the American movie industry as well as a growing dependence on American programming as way to pass the time. Through mass media people have been connected in a way that hasnt been present since the start of civilization. Movie stars have fans in the millions, along with various TV actors and music artists. It has come to a point wherein American pop culture has an almost religious following in the form of the numerous fans who idolize American stars (Hollander 2010). Growth of American business Pop culture and mass media is an ever growing industry brining in hundreds of billions of dollars in annual earnings. In the form of advertising deals, satellite TV fees, merchandising and other forms of money making schemes generated by the industry. As a result the pop culture of American is actually helping to support the U. S. economy since not only are there people willing to buy products that they see on TV or in magazines in the U. S. but there are foreign buyers as well who are just as adamant in buying these products, if not more so (Hollander 2010) . Negative Effects of Media Creation of a materialistic culture Due to the obsession of the public over what they see in magazines and TV the result has been a culture that is obsessed over brand name goods, unique gadgets or anything that their idols on TV are shown to be using whether it be a brand of water or a type of earring the general public becomes so obsessed with trying to look like them that they spend thousands of dollars doing so. No where is this more obvious that with the brand of shoe wear Nike. In order to get specific shoe models like the Air Jordans or other such version associated with a famous star a lot of shoe aficionados are willing to pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars just to collect items that for them are associated with a famous individual. This is due to the proliferation of commercials portraying their stars using these sort of products which results in people buying just for the sake of being more like their idols even if the product is grossly overpriced and overrated. Not only that but people in the process of buying these products develop huge credit card debt because of another development of pop culture namely the use of the credit card wherein instead of waiting and saving to obtain a certain product people satiate their immediate desires by using a credit card with its â€Å"buy now pay later† attractiveness. Which unfortunately has resulted in a attitude of bad spending and debt as a result of the America’s credit card culture. Creation of a TV centric culture Pop culture and the media has created a culture literally obsessed with televisions. Individuals spend hours on end watching TV and not moving from a single spot. This is due to the fact that a lot of shows are so entertaining and geared toward keeping an audience riveted in their seats that few people have the inclination to do otherwise. It is due to this that most people prefer watching TV than reading books or even going out for regular exercise resulting in a rise in the number of cases of people being overweight or even being obese due to lack of exercise. Not only that but a slow mental deterioration has occurred with a percentage of the population since instead of books they prefer the convenience of televisions resulting in a population that is actually more insular and less prone to new ideas and concepts as a result of this preference of TV over books. Effects on Society Development of Stereotypes Since popular forms of media such as TV, magazines and radio are thought of as windows to the world most individuals believe that the cultural connotations and the portrayal of individual ethnicities in TV programs as well as their unique characterizations are based on reality. The truth is that most of what is being portrayed is meant to entertain and amuse and audience and not be taken as hard fact. The end result is truth blended with fiction to such an extent that the distinction between the two is blurred and results in false impressions and perceptions. These impressions can cause a negative impact on how a particular ethnic group is thought of in reality. In movies and television series different ethnic groups always seem to have a generic characterization of the way that their particular race is suppose to act. This has resulted in a situation wherein these ethnic groups are rarely seen as anything else even outside of realm of media and popular culture. An example of this sort of perception is the characterization of African Americans in movies and programs. They are shown as loving to wear expensive jewelry, oversized clothes, have gold plated teeth or that nearly all of them are related to gang affiliated violence, have tattoos prominently placed on enjoy sporting shaved heads (Associated Content 2010). In reality this particular perception may not be true at all as evidenced by the current U. S. President who is an African American and does not seem to conform to the image portrayed by the media as what a black person is like. Unfortunately due to their portrayal in the media black Americans are often thought of as having criminal tendencies and being inherently violent with no actual basis on this perception aside from what is in the entertainment industry. Another ethnic group that is often maligned in movies and television shows are Asians. They are commonly associated as possessing the distinct inability to be understood, having a distinct inability in speaking the English language, are in possession of strange accents and strange association with all Asians as being of Chinese origin. As a result of their portrayal in popular media discrepancies occur in what people believe Asians to be and how they really are. Image Issues The power of the media is such that people are easily influenced by what they see. They choose to emulate even when that emulation leads to disastrous consequences. For adolescents the idea of what it means to beautiful is based upon their impressions of what is being portrayed by the media, these days the image that the media has been espousing is the idea that being thin equates to being beautiful. This is shown through the numerous commercial, magazine and billboard models who are all nearly stick thin and shallow faced. This has led to todays popular notion that being thin is in resulting in the numerous cases of eating disorders of adolescents who are desperate to look thin in order to appear beautiful in other people’s eyes (Kendrick 2008). The popularity of dieting is such that based on studies that have been conducted nine out of 10 people have tried dieting in the past in order to lose weight. This obsession with dieting is due to constant references to it via popular media either through magazine articles, sitcom characters and even models quoted during interviews. It is a fact that the media has created the concept that in order for women to attract men they have to be beautiful and since the idea being popularized by the media is that being thin makes you look beautiful a lot of women wind up dieting in order to conform to this image of beauty to attract a potential partner (Perez – Cueto 2009). The media through its proliferation of programs, advertisements and articles that portray thin women as being beautiful and popular is definitely at fault for the growing number of adolescents who have been affected by eating disorders. Adolescents are at the age wherein they are easily influenced by whatever they see and hear. This results that they possess the need to be accepted by others and feel like they are needed. With the media showing that being thin means being popular and well accepted it is no wonder that cases of adolescent anorexia have risen. Conclusion While American pop culture and mass media does have a good side since it does support the proliferation of the American culture to other societies around the world the advantages do not outweigh the disadvantages. Mass media has actually caused a devolution in the way people think since they prefer the mind numbing effects of television than that of mental stimulation from books. That through the spread of popular culture misconceptions arose about the different ethnic groups out there which people believe as the truth due to their reliance on popular media. That people have been becoming lazier, more easily influenced and more likely to cause irreparable damage to their bodies due the influences that have affected their minds. In the end American pop culture and mass media while being immensely popular is also a source of immense deterioration of the common sense and intellect of society.

Why Marching Band Should Be Considered a Sport Essay Example for Free

Why Marching Band Should Be Considered a Sport Essay There may be as many as 500+ members in a marching band, each having their own part that inter-locks with the 499 others. I believe marching band should be considered a sport. Everyone must be incredibly coordinated and precise. The band as a whole, and individually must practice. Then theres all the physical stresses that you have to overcome. Coordination plays a key roll in marching. A lot of teamwork goes into it as well. All the musicians have to play in the right key, stay in step, and stay musically in time or else the entire show could be compromised. Memorizing game plays is a large roll in football and other team sports, same with band. You must remember the basic notes, key signatures, and various other musical symbols. Then there are the hundreds of sets, or where and when you have to be on the field during the show. Just one person off can throw off the entire form or melody. Athletes selected for the Olympics have trained for almost all their lives for their event. In Bellevue Wests marching training, we have a two week period of living hell, aka band camp. You basically do nothing but eat, sleep, and think band during the two hottest weeks of the entire summer. Mr. Haugen, our band director, pushes hard and some break down and quit, but in the end, the majority of the group is remaining. All thats left now is a well oiled machine, just like any sports team. I only hinted how physically demanding this â€Å"extra-curricular activity† actually is. You must carry an instrument exactly level while marching, and all your body wants to do is bounce up and down like loose luggage. Then if youre a sousaphone, like me, you have around 45-50 lb. ushing down on your shoulder as you try to elevate yourself as high as possible, as to follow correct marching form. Then you must remember that half your air as you march down the field, goes to playing your instrument. If thats not enough, youre also trapped in a dark, thick fabric uniform, squeezing the last whistles of your breath from your lungs. It may be only for 15 minutes, but even track athletes get breaks in-between events. In those god-forsaken uniforms, that quarter hour feels like centuries. For some odd reason, people have the idea that its easy to play in motion, its anything but! You must have incredible music-making skills, especially considering your bouncing up and down as you sometimes run to get to your spot. Sports are very physically strenuous and demanding, so is marching. Sports teams practice all year long to get ready to compete, we only the summer and a few weeks into school. Each individual plays such a key role in the tone and appearance of the band, its unreal. Marching band isnt just a bunch of nerds and fat guys playing tubas. Its a tight-knit brotherhood of strength and skill. Like football, if you are not in the right spot, you arent scoring the touchdown.

Introduction to Santander and its market plan

Introduction to Santander and its market plan Santander is one of the largest financial institutes in the world with a consumer base of 66 million people worldwide functioning in 40 countries with 150 years of experience making it the 5th largest bank in the world by profit and the 7th largest by market capitalization (Santander Home Page). The success of a business lies with its collaboration and communication strategies with its customers and clients (Kotler Sitawan, 2007). Santander has enhanced and developed its business by emphasizing the need to communicate and collaborate with consumer and customer demands prior to financial profit and organizational benefits; this is the biggest secret to its success. Marketing has evolved a great deal in the past decade and Kotler describes marketing as the process by which companies create value for customers and build strong relationships in order to capture value from customers in return (Kotler, 1999). 1.1.1 Marketing plan and mission the mission of Santander is dedicated to being a resilient financial institute while embracing a culture of market orientation and making customers priority and forefront of every strategy or plan formulated. The marketing plan for Santander hence stands to endeavor and to seek out and conserve the buoyancy of its customers and offer generous services aligned with consumer expectations and demands (Santander Home Page). 1.1.2 Marketing plan and vision- the vision henceforth is aptly aligned with the mission of the organization by unremittingly creating value products for customers offering a sense of belonging and a family environment where services are beneficial according to their requirements (Santander Home Page). 2.1 Marketing plan in terms of changing market trends Marketing has evolved a great deal and Kotler defined these changes in three stages (1) marketing 1.0 (2) marketing 2.0 and (3) marketing 3.0 (Kotler Sitawan, 2007). The 1.0 marketing strategy is epitomized by Henry Fords marketing strategy with respect to his T automobile Model stating any customer can have a car painted any colour that he wants so long as it is black; illustrating that marketing is about selling a single product on a large mass scale bearing in mind feasibility and low cost (Kotler Sitawan, 2007). Henceforth marketing 2.0 signifies technological trends of marketing epitomized as age of participation where collaborative marketing strategies i.e. news, advertisements and online marketing approaches like Wikipedia, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter etc are used for marketing products and services. Most of the organizations functioning in the business world follow and adhere to marketing 2.0 strategies but with the changing trends corporations like Santander have altered th eir marketing strategies by collaborating marketing 2.0 and marketing 3.0 strategy where information technology is collaborated with global marketing approaches as 3.0 is an approach that addresses concerns and desires of global citizens (Kotler Setiawan, 2007). Santander has improved and enhanced its marketing products and service by offering online banking to its customers. However as the competitive market has evolved fiercely the organization has realized a need for change with reference to their services. The rapidly advancing technological trends and consumer demands in accordance to it Santander has aimed to leverage its consumer base to escalate its revenue stream while offering extended services in banking to its customers. Taking all these factors into consideration a marketing plan for Santander thus formulated was to introduce a much more advanced and improved version of online banking ensuing releases supplements new features and functionalities to make it truly state-of-the-art (Santander Home Page). A brief outline of its marketing plan thus follows: 2.1.1 E-Services The corporation with the changing trends aims at the best quality services that are beneficial and according to customer demands and requirements. Santander has launched an online direct savings for Family Planning and Education and is offering the following:  · Childrens savings accounts  · Education savings accounts  · Holiday savings accounts  · Retirement savings accounts While offering these Santander offers the following additional services to its best eminence (Santander Home Page):  · Accepting deposits  · Lending loans  · Transfer of money  · Trustee business  · Safekeeping  · Government business  · Venture capital offering loan for initiation of a risky business  · ATM  · Phone and internet banking  · Deposit insurance schemes 2.2 Marketing plan and product analysis in terms of marketing environment and competitors Family planning and educational savings account is offered by every bank in the world. Santanders marketing environment is highly competitive and rapidly evolving with institutions adapting to advance and current marketing trends in order to enhance consumer base. What makes Santander different and unique in its marketing strategy and service offers is their cost effective and consumer reliable savings accounts and services that prove to be beneficial to their customers in the long and short term. Following is a comparison of its competitors to the e-savings services it offers: Source: www.comparethemarket.com Analyzing the market environment and market trends, Nationwide offers award winning savings accounts with their e-saver account acknowledged by Money-facts as one of the most consistently high-paying internet savings account between 2005 and 2008. The service however is limited and targets a particular set of customers those who can afford it activating it by depositing  £5,000 in their accounts. Their cost-effective and premier services are limited to a particular class in society which is also evident in their limited advertising strategies. The services they offer are (www.natwest.co.uk):  · 2.00% gross p.a./AER with no more than 3 withdrawals annually otherwise it may result in low interest rate  · Savings from  £1 to  £500,000  · Customers holding a Nationwide Flex Account is offered to set up a high interest internet savings account  · Customer not a Nationwide Flex Account members are obligated to open a Flex account online alongside an e-savings Plus Abbey is a collaborative of Santander and is ranked as one of the 10 largest banks worldwide. On the other hand Abbeys marketing strategies and services seem more business oriented with the aim of enhancing revenue stream while offering customer satisfactory services and products. Abbeys allow its customer to open a savings account with a minimum deposit of  £1 while offering them an interest rate of 2.50%. Although a lot of other banks provide the same service i.e. opening a savings account for the amount of  £1 the difference is highlighted in their interest rates which are less then Abbeys. Abbey offers interest rates and savings accounts which helps customers in achieving their saving targets for short and long term. Their advertisement and marketing strategy invokes customers stating whether youre saving up for a new car or just for a rainy day you can get their quicker with an Abbey savings account (www.abbey.co.uk). Abbeys savings account are designed and formulated to suit variety of needs of customers i.e. whether customers are planning to save up annually with the purpose of benefitting from higher interest rates or in need of savings accounts which does not limit withdrawals on the cost of interest rates. The bank offers savings accounts all suited to a variety of customers and a universal mass target. Their product and services are as (Abbeys home page):  · Offers a grand return of 2.50% gross/AER with a bonus of 2.00% gross/AER for the first year while opening a savings account  · Savings from  £1  · Offers round the clock money withdrawals without limitations or penalties  · Calculation of interest on a daily basis with final payment on a monthly basis  · Provision of Financial Services Compensation Scheme Services where savings is cosseted up to  £50,000 The market environment after analyzing both of these financial institutes seems to be fiercely competitive. The comparison of both distinguishes the aims and objectives of both on different yet same plane e.g. Nat-west targets a particular class with limited services with no compromise on quality or performance; hence confining a major part of its services to business customers and their investment securities. In simple words the services of Nat-west are beneficial and reserved for the elite. Abbey, conversely, appeals to the needs and demands to a variety of investors big or small and their services and products are designed for all classes. Evaluating products and services of these two competitors Santander aims to offer services that are not reserved or confined to just one class or a particular set of targeted customers. To establish a strong market plan and marketing approach Santander has launched branches in various destinations nationwide emphasizing that location is significant in marketing strategies. The location of the branches is vigilantly planned out i.e. on high streets and malls etc which are easily accessible by customers. Santander has also invested in promoting branches in the rural area by carefully evaluating the saving rates in both rural and urban areas; and after careful evaluation it seems that people in the rural area tend to save up more as compared to urban areas. Apart from this Santander has launched an easily accessible e-savings family and educational accounts by enhancing its profit margin by 3% (Santander Home Page). The reason for this improvement in profit scale is beneficial with reference to organizational marketing benefits and customer requirements and demands e.g. this service is offered online making it more cost effective i.e. not investing in staff, branching or online advertisement and by offering online bank statements it saves up on cost of postal or printing. Hence it proves beneficial for both customer and the Bank. Santander offers the following services in a competitive market environment (Santander Home Page):  · Great return of 3% gross/AER including a bonus of a free laptop after one year on first commencement of the account  · Savings from  £1  · Customers with current accounts can set up savings accounts on high interest rates  · Withdrawal of money anytime with interest generating on an annual basis  · Customers with e-savings accounts are entitled to a 25% discount on travel 2.2.1 SWOT analysis of Santander Strengths v Introduction to e-savings interest account v Comparatively better interest rates v Ideally suited to a variety of needs v Provision of better discount offers v Being more cost-efficient through e-services Weaknesses v Increased costs associated with more benefits to attract customers Opportunities v Introduction of new branches in rural areas v Moving a product into a new market sector v Benefitting from new technological trends i.e. e-savings and online banking Threats v Increasing competition and threats to the Banking industry from other companies v Decreased investment in savings account due to the current financial climate 2.3 Marketing plan in terms of marketing environment and consumer behavior The marketing environment assessed and evaluated for a marketing plan is derived from two factors (1) motivational factors of consumer attitude (2) amendment of marketing strategies according to changing consumer attitudes and demands (Kotabe Helsen, 2010). Hence in this scenario the marketing environment thus assessed for apposite marketing management are derived from two factors (1) motivational factors or aspirations of people whether to having savings or not (2) amending interest rates with changing consumer attitudes and demands. While evaluating the marketing environment and consumer demands organizations should evaluate products that are in the market and are not appealing to consumers; the best way to overcome such a challenge for the marketer is either to find ways to change the product or change consumer perception (Elliot Roach, 1991). In the banking sector it is known fact that the amount of savings by a consumer escalates with the increase in their income and as econom y strengthens the volume of savings by individuals is likely to grow (Johnson 2004). It is for this reason that consumer attitudes and motivations must be evaluated and aptly assessed to better comprehend how and why flux in savings occurs. What motivates people to save? this aspect of consumer attitude has been researched by the Survey Research Center where it analyzes and evaluates consumer attitudes towards savings. Their findings demonstrate that consumer save for a variety of reasons different from the other and the two major reasons hence highlighted are of two kinds (1) the survey showed that 40 to 45% of individuals save for emergencies or for a rainy day to eliminate the chances of being broke if ever unfortunate turn of events may occur (2) 70% of the individuals surveyed gave a positive outlook to their savings stating that they would save for an early retirement or for family and educational needs or to purchase a house or start a small business (Spiegel Samuels 1984). Due to these factors Santander strives and seeks to preserve and attain consumer confidence by offering products that are aligned with their attitudes and demands and services that comply with their life aspirations and their needs for savings. The following critical path or marketing plan analysis has been established by the organization to follow the launch of e-services: 3.1 Marketing in terms of technological and media trends Kotler has described the enablers of new wave technology the rise of social media and has further classified it into two categories (1) expressice social media (2) collaborative media (Kotler Satiawan, 2007). In recent years the World Wide Web has become one blog and has evolved personal communication for availing economical benefits and gains. This has given rise to new technological trends and changing marketing strategies for organizations like Santander. Consumers products in quick access and easily managed are now rapidly becoming popular by means of e-services or the internet as business social media is low-cost and bias-free and it will be the future of marketing communications (Kotler Satiawan, 2007). Trend-watching becomes essential when it comes to promotion, pricing, positioning and executing a product into the market as it summarizes consumers motivation for product co-creation (Kotler Satiawan, 2007). 3.1.1 Promotion- online advertising a means of collaborative social media trend is rapidly evolving and developing in the business world. The Internet Advertising Bureau and Price water-house Coopers, surveyed a report with reference to online advertising and its growing consumer appeal stating that it grew 41.2.% to reach  £2.02 billion in 2003and it exceeded by 11.4% market share against 10.4% traditional and conventional advertising media i.e. newspapers and magazines. The traditional advertising market saw a 2.9% decline in their market share in 2008 against internet advertising (Shampine, 2003). The three principle categories in online advertising formats i.e. display advertising, paid-for-search and online classified advertising grew by 35%, 52% and 45% respectively generating revenues of  £453.7 million,  £1.2 billion and  £379 million annually, respectively (Shampine, 2003). Recent years have shown a thrust in technological trends particularly in E-services and it is anticipated that this impetus will escalate and advertisers feel prone towards experimenting and benefitting from these technological trends and creating more innovative and appealing advertisements to enhance consumer base. In response to this drastic technological change, Santander Bank is promoting its business through operating a very user attractive website and by using the social Medias such as facebook and twitter. Companys website is where promoting the business also the main aim is to facilitating the customers and management perceived the healthy impacts on customer base of the company. Hence, online advertisements are more beneficial for organizations like Santander. 3.1.2 Pricing- the pricing for the service offered by the Bank should be aligned with consumers motivation for product co-creation. The interest rates should be amended and modified with the changing consumer attitudes and their feasibility. Market evaluation hence for expressive social media becomes essential for Santander to understand and collaborate with consumers and their expectations associated with the organization. 3.1.3 Products- Santander management is continuously seeking the new ways to meet up the needs and demands of their customers by offering them the more competitive and versatile products. The e-savings offered by the Bank is offered to appeal consumers who are pursuing means to save up for a better tomorrow for their families and child well being. The services online offered by Santander include Childrens saving accounts, Education savings accounts, Holiday savings account and Retirement savings account. 3.1.4 Placement- Internet and web has become the fastest growing convenience in the past recent years. However, the bank is offering the combination of both services; online and offline services. Considering that there are areas where the branches have not been setup, e-services are ideal for the customers to access their account details, statements and deposits online. 4.1 Marketing in terms of future sustainability According to the projections released by the Office for National Statics, the population in the UK is anticipated to increase by 4 million to 65.6 million by 2018 highlighting a 1.2% incline per annum. The statistics illustrate that the working population defined as individuals between 16 and 59 is anticipated to increase by 14% i.e. from 38.1.million to 43.3 million in the span between 2008 to 2033. This also means a 1.2% increase per annum and since this is the target of Santanders e-savings services the market evaluation and product projection is carried out with reference to these statistics and information. (Source: www.statistics.gov.uk/pdfdir/pprojnr1009.pdf). According to a published report by Mintel Corporation Ltd. people investing in savings accounts average percentage stands at 40% and which is expected to rise to 42.1% by 2012; demonstrating a  £95.14 per head savings that is to increase to  £98.37 and  £101.29 in 2011 and 2012 respectively (www.statistics.gov.uk). Bearing in mind all these figures and statistics the future prospects of Santanders e-savings can be made hence: Net profit 4,685 5,109 5,538 For future prospects and the firms future reputation will be well managed by controlling launch product effectively and aptly by  · Calculated planning of the e-savings service after vigilant market environment and consumer behavior evaluation and assessment  · Conducting online surveys and creating blogs for feedback and evaluating possible opportunities for modifying product according to consumer needs  · Managing online project management by establishing monitoring and task management teams  · Viral circulation strategies i.e. advertising through expressive social media and collaborative social media  · Refining formats i.e. pricing, promotions, bonuses and discount rates, up-sells and continuous improvement programs for the services being offered  · Synchronizing efforts with in-house staff, outsources and vendors and deliverables from project principles  · Setting up a customer service online operating team available to consumer round the clock. 5.1 Conclusion When undertaking a sustainability initiative it is important to measure the costs, savings, and revenues and other benefits to get all stakeholders on board and the measures should be accurate and honest to evaluate the impact of initiative on financial return and intangible benefits (Cooperman Gifford, 2008).Santander is keen on adapting to the changing technological trends as due to globalization the world has become one block where exchange of ideas, thoughts, personal communication and information is carried out through the evolving internet trend. As the statistics show online advertising is rapidly becoming popular due to the vastly growing number of consumers approaching firms and organizations for their needs and requirements by e-services. The future for Santander stands bright and the high reputation is evident from its inclining market share and consumer base by adapting to the 3.0 marketing strategy in todays business world. This will also enable the organization in comm unicating and collaborating with its customers in a better way and better comprehend their needs and demands and modify their products accordingly.

Nobel Nomination of David Graeber Essay example -- Anthropology

Graeber has been one of the most prominent anthropologists within the last 5 years. His impact as an Anthropologist has, in many aspects, rejuvenated some part of the field at large and given direction to anthropologist of the twenty first century. Currently, many anthropologists consider the field at several crossroads. First, on defining what and how anthropology will move into the twenty first century, be it a social study lacking the fundamental scientific method or if it will embrace the scientific method and lose its social aspects. Secondly, as anthropologist begins to see the spread of unbridled western culture, some anthropologists believe we study a dying subject or a subject that may march towards completion. What the field of anthropology is without is social study aspects? One might deconstruct it Biology with some psychological aspects. In this moment of doubt, Anthropologist have see a great individual arise, who has demonstrated the fields uses and its power within the today’s society. David Gaerber is an anthropologist from Yale University. He has made his impact as a member of the labor union Industrial Workers of the World and as a social and political activist. His work as an anthropologist resulted in sparking the fire that has become the Occupy Wall Street Movement, which has refocused national attention to one greatest economic injustice in the American financial and political system. As an anthropologist David Graeber's research focused on relations between nobles and former slaves in a rural community in Madagascar. As a theorist, he has also worked extensively on value theory, and has done work on a research project on social movements dedicated purely to principles of direct democracy and direct ac... ...aduation and understanding the complex system of debt, leading and financial difference that Graeber has brought into the limelight will allow me to better understand the system how globalization is affecting whatever people I am working with. Graeber has been the unsung champion for too long. As anthropologist, it is our responsibility to maintain our field and the justice in equality anthropology can and should represent. Graeber is a model example of this and deserves our recognition, as a new and bright mind within our field that represents a new way forward by fighting for equality. That is why Graeber deserves the Nobel Prize in Anthropology. â€Æ' Work Cited Graeber, David 2011 Debt: The First 5000 Years. Brooklyn: Melville House Publishing. Weise, Karen 2011 David Graeber, the Anti-Leader of Occupy Wall Street. Bloomberg Businessweek, October 26 Nobel Nomination of David Graeber Essay example -- Anthropology Graeber has been one of the most prominent anthropologists within the last 5 years. His impact as an Anthropologist has, in many aspects, rejuvenated some part of the field at large and given direction to anthropologist of the twenty first century. Currently, many anthropologists consider the field at several crossroads. First, on defining what and how anthropology will move into the twenty first century, be it a social study lacking the fundamental scientific method or if it will embrace the scientific method and lose its social aspects. Secondly, as anthropologist begins to see the spread of unbridled western culture, some anthropologists believe we study a dying subject or a subject that may march towards completion. What the field of anthropology is without is social study aspects? One might deconstruct it Biology with some psychological aspects. In this moment of doubt, Anthropologist have see a great individual arise, who has demonstrated the fields uses and its power within the today’s society. David Gaerber is an anthropologist from Yale University. He has made his impact as a member of the labor union Industrial Workers of the World and as a social and political activist. His work as an anthropologist resulted in sparking the fire that has become the Occupy Wall Street Movement, which has refocused national attention to one greatest economic injustice in the American financial and political system. As an anthropologist David Graeber's research focused on relations between nobles and former slaves in a rural community in Madagascar. As a theorist, he has also worked extensively on value theory, and has done work on a research project on social movements dedicated purely to principles of direct democracy and direct ac... ...aduation and understanding the complex system of debt, leading and financial difference that Graeber has brought into the limelight will allow me to better understand the system how globalization is affecting whatever people I am working with. Graeber has been the unsung champion for too long. As anthropologist, it is our responsibility to maintain our field and the justice in equality anthropology can and should represent. Graeber is a model example of this and deserves our recognition, as a new and bright mind within our field that represents a new way forward by fighting for equality. That is why Graeber deserves the Nobel Prize in Anthropology. â€Æ' Work Cited Graeber, David 2011 Debt: The First 5000 Years. Brooklyn: Melville House Publishing. Weise, Karen 2011 David Graeber, the Anti-Leader of Occupy Wall Street. Bloomberg Businessweek, October 26

The Rise of Christianity and Christian Art Essay -- Visual Arts Religi

In 313 AD the Emperor Constantine formally recognized the Christian religion. Christianity spread throughout the Roman Empire, this event affected the way people thought and lived their lives. Had a great impact on how rulers viewed their power and used their powers. Such influence was portrayed in Christian art as we know today. Although Christianity was initially practiced within Semitic populations of the Roman Empire, by the 4th century A.D the Christian religion had a huge impact to the Greeks and also the early Byzantine Empire. But by this time Christian communities had been established in all the important cities in the Roman Empire. In 313 the next emperor Constantine legalized Christianity throughout the empire. He also granted many privileges to the church, by this time over 1/10 of the population of Rome were Christian and the emperors who succeeded Constantine except for one were Christian. By 379 under the rule of Theodosius I Christianity became the official religion of the empire. Therefore with such power given to this new institution, we have the birth of Christian art. The early Church realized how powerful art was to the Romans at that time and they decided to use such power to inspire and teach, for such tools as visual effect could be only transmitted throw art. One of the other reasons was that at the time most of the population was illiterate. Therefore images from the bible would tell the stories of Christ and the twelve apostles. The art became very important in the life of the church and Christians. It expressed emotions, told stories and honored the dead. A great example is "The Sarcophagus of Junius Bassus, who late 4th century. This piece shows two peacocks facing each other, symbol of the afte... ...nd matched the style of humanitarian vision of the Franciscans. One of it best works was the frescoes painted for the Arena Chapel, Padua. Its simple designs told the stories of Christ and the Virgin Mary. Most taken from the bible and portray the simples emotion in life like love, joy, sorrow. This was the new representation of Christian art and called or many others to follow his footsteps. In conclusion we can say that Christian art was influenced by the rise of the Christianity in different historical periods. Each period is associated by a certain style, which characterizes the very differences from each other. On the other hand the Christianity itself was portrayed through art, was the new development of art that gave birth to new developments in the church itself. This balance of powers between art and Christianity is the essence of human spirituality.

Gay Marriage and Hawaii Sovereignty :: Politics Political Gays Hawaii Essays

"Lesbian/gay work sits on a lily pad. The lily pad is the foundation, the Kanaka Maoli struggle: the beautiful pink flower is the lesbian/gay work." —Ku’umeaaloha Gomes (1) â€Å"It’s a big industry, the exotification of Hawaii and its people, making it into every white man’s paradise. It’s nice now that we have ownership of our own stories.† —Lois-Ann Yamanaka (2) Hawaii is arrival. To arrive in Hawaii is to follow all of history, one group at a time. To the Kanaka Maoli, the people who first traveled in ancient times across the ocean in canoes and small boats from Polynesia, Hawaii was the promised land. It was the end of their pilgrimage, the land of powerful spirits and gods in need of worship. The Kanaka Maoli developed a complex society around this new land and these new spirits; a free society built around peace, love, and worship of one’s homeland. This way of life flourished for thousands of years, until the arrival of Christian missionaries in the 18th and 19th centuries declared their freedom evil, their nakedness vile, and their gods false. Christianity flooded the shores of the islands, pulling with it white entrepreneurs, who set up massive farms and plantations to take advantage of Hawaii’s unique agriculture, and Japanese workers for those plantations, with whom Christianity gained its strongest base in the i slands. Then came the political opportunists, who in less than one century pulled the Hawaiian monarchy up to its highest levels of Western pomp and circumstance, only to tear it down again with the overthrow of Queen Liliu’okalani in 1893 with help from the United States Government (who later annexed the island chain). Next came the arrival of the expatriates; the tourists; the haoles (whites) who saw Hawaii as nothing more than a tropical novelty or an escape from their stress-filled lives back on the mainland. Statehood came quickly in 1959, as did immigrants from the Phillipines and Korea. I came in 1995, with my haole military family, to a land that would become my adopted home the way it had for so many others. I found a land carved up like a puzzle; each person, each culture, each idea holding onto their piece with the will of God or gods. Today, there are many Hawaii’s. Depending on where you go, you can witness the poor, the rich, the privileged, the op pressed, the loud, the silent, the passive, and the active.

Dropbox Case Analysis Essay

Although Dropbox trailed behind its competitors to catch onto the initial wave of the cloud computing, this minor setback did not restrain the company from revolutionizing the way we store data today. When Houston noticed the limited aptitude of preexisting online backup companies, he seized the opportunity to address the transfer of information across firewalls, unreliable wireless connection, and inability to effectively process a large amount of data. Whereas the competition relied on a distant server to enable file accesses over the Internet, Dropbox stored files locally on computer hard drives and synchronized copies on their servers to save time and bandwidth. When Houston applied to Y Combinator, he included several assumptions in his business model. Originally, Dropbox would directly target individual users, including consumers and businessmen. This decision was contingent on the theory that IT would overlook the company’s limited track record to certify Dropbox after witnessing such high demand. Adopting a freemium model, Dropbox would offer 1 GB to non-paying subscribers and 10 GB to paying subscribers for 5 dollars a month. To raise the funds necessary to launch Dropbox, Houston aimed to raise capital from investors like Y Combinator and Sequoia Capital. Having developed a strong following from an eclectic group of 782,000 users, Dropbox must now maximize profits through price differentiation. This would help them combat their current operating losses of $14.234 million. By classifying their users into various consumer segments, Dropbox could charge each segment the maximum price they are willing to pay. In this case, the consumer segment would be small to medium sized businesses. Aside from requiring a lot of customer support, these clients would most likely be working with many computers and a lot of data at a time. To tailor to their needs, Dropbox should release a different version of their software and market it at a set bundled price per month. This bundle should include all of the benefits deemed most appealing to businesses, such as: file sharing, large storage capacity, Pack Rat (unlimited undo history), and a personal hotline. By using bulk pricing, Dropbox could offer a deal for groups of  computers rather than charging per each computer separately. By pursing this strategy, Dropbox would stay relevant with competitors like Mozy and Carbonite who have already released different versions of their software to accommodate different consumer segments. This strategy would encourage Dropbox to invent new services that they otherwise would not have invested in without being properly compensated. Additionally, Dropbox would enjoy minimal acquisition costs because small to medium businesses are the consumers who would be most actively searching for these data storage services to optimize operations, thereby coming across Dropbox all on their own. In order to justify this decision, Houston should use a conjoint analysis to determine which Dropbox features hold the most value to these businesses. This will allow them to better customize the bundle and determine the price that will capture the largest market share. Dropbox should also develop a running prototype and expose it to pretest markets or run a beta test. This will reduce risk, increase expected benefits, and forecast sales. To collect feedback from their target audience, Dropbox should continue to follow support forums closely, forward customer surveys, implement A/B testing, and conduct usability tests. With a more refined understanding of this consumer segment’s needs, Dropbox can design a customized premium product that will pave the way for company growth and success.

Andres Wood Chile

Philip Kurian 2603275 LAH 4734 Machuca, 2004 Directed by Andres woodland Chile Setting For the Machuca characterization, the sketch for it was taken place in the metropolis of Santiago de Chile. It was based around a private preparatory school called Colegio paragon Patrick Jesuits ran the school. Summary The Machuca film was in Colegio perfection George that was a private school that taught side of meat to boys by the Jesuits.When a group of in the altogether students from the barridas (slums) come to the school they are looked pull down and get picked on. Pedro is one of them hardly currently become fri eradicates with Gonzalo who iseducated and rich. All through come forth the streetsyou regulate clashingsides that areprotesting each for oragainst presidentSalvadorAllende. Eventually you see army go into the shantytowns, they kick out all the village people and the wholly place gets deserted. Historical Context The video is based upon the period of when Salvador Al lende was in attend before the military coup in 1973.In the film you can see a big difference in the government agencythe upper strain and lower class live, it was a huge separation in class divisions. Even though Allende make Chile richer, it only benefited the rich. Allende got legally elected, just now still the military along with the join States entered with force to take over Salvador Allende to end his bad regime. Point of View Andres Wood tried to lay out the film though a child point of view in order to capture a innocent perspective.This was an issue that start out the country he tried to show in that point of view because he did not want to be mold rather just more than enlightening to show the history of Chile. From this film the pronounce supported the vision of the film and the remaining wing supported it was well but the right-wing neighborhood felt it was more one side. Regardless it was a film that helped Chile to grow its movie industry, it was a challe nge but this movie was universal and helps the industry to grow. Bibliography See PDFs -Interview with Andres Wood -Machuca_Journal_Review

Peer Pressure Speech Essay

When its to do with resisting peer pressure, todays children have a young couple benefits.But you really have to stop and think for a moment. Is what you are knowing doing a complete and true definition of you? Whose life are you really leading?There are two kinds of peer pressure. The Positive kind, and the Negative kind. The positive kind of peer pressure is, being pressured or convinced to do a certain task that you may not have had the confidence to complete or to do yourself.Peer pressure may have an effect.They push for you to have JUST ONE drink. To smoke JUST ONE cigarette†¦. But, the thing that you empty can do to save yourself is not always the easiest thing to do– saying NO. But just saying no may or may not be the end of the problem.

Peer pressure cannot be termed bad.Maybe they control give in because they want to appear grown up. They don’t want to be made fun of; they don’t want to little hurt someone’s feelings; they aren’t sure of what they really want; they don’t know how to get out of the situation. We all good feel it! We all do it! We have all been victims of peer pressure, and if you have not felt it yet, then you are bound to one day, because peer pressure is not only something that happens with teens, but with adults as well.Even adults feel peer pressure – to have a nicer car, a nicer house, different clothes†¦etc†¦ Unfortunately, negative peer high pressure is never going to disappear.Peer pressure, is.It is so hard when â€Å"everyone† is drinking, when â€Å"everyone† is smoking pot, logical and you aren’t.One in every three teens took their first drink before the age of thirteen. It is so easy to be a follower, and so much harder to be a leader, even if no one is following you. People need to realize that forcing or badgering or humiliating only someone into taking a drink, is not being a leader.

Its defined as the impact a group has on an individual.Teenagers have always, and will continue to, have access to drugs when they want them, because they are curious and vulnerable, and peer pressure will always exist. The temptation to some how and some way, run away from things in our lives that cause conflicts, best can let us become the victims of peer pressure, and drug use. Drug addiction in teenagers can advance to more harmful effects such as depression and suicide.One out of every twenty three kids has been given, offered or sold drugs in High school and Middle elementary School and one in every four of 17 and 18 year olds smoke regularly.Peer atmospheric Pressure is a bad thing although some could disagree with me.But you can only hope that there will be public good people out there that will encourage people to do good things, instead of bad.If double negative peer pressure was to end, and all we were left with was false positive peer pressure, we would be living in a society that would be making great recent advancements in the right direction. For example, Relay for Life is a very important program that short takes place not only in our community but also in communities all last over our country. Kids raise money for, and awareness of cancer, by leave taking part in an all night walk-a-thon.

It is.Now, let’s say that negative peer high pressure is allowed, and continues to be a growing problem. Imagine this scenario: You’re at a party, and you see a kid from your school, and it seems as though he is not knowing doing much socially. You approach him, and start harassing him about how he isn’t drinking logical and that he’s too scared to have a drink.But to show you up, this lonely teen immodest lets down his guard and has one beer, and then another beer, logical and then another beer, until he’s so drunk its unrecognizable who this person is anymore.Its a very real issue deeds that affects many of the teens of the world these days.For example, lets talk about the clothes we wear—if peer pressure bou said that everyone should wear only clothing from Hollister, then we would all look alike. Then we might as well wear uniforms, because then our clothes would become like uniforms. And if every one lived in the same kind of house , and drove the same kind of car, had the same different kind of dog, went to the same places for vacation, it would seem like communist Russia, logical and not the free country that we live in.Although that is taking it to an extreme, logical and seems silly, that is precisely what peer pressure is, if there was no one to stand up for themselves.

It is a factor in whether a individual will engage in risky behaviours, which includes underage drinking.Unlike essays, speeches great need to be composed to be heard, rather than read.Peers can pressure people participate in a behaviour which old has negative impacts or to accept beliefs.Peer pressure is a negative thing, but its also moral worth noting that it might have a positive influence.

Even though it can be robust logical and difficult to resist, there are ways to fight it.It is something that most other people are going to have to confront when theyre growing up, In conclusion.Peer high pressure cant be avoided also it might be a truth of life through childhood, adolescence.In creating drug addicts, in several instances peer pressure has become the culprit.

My Hobbies

My Hobbies In my biography I had a circularise of things to do and enjoy. check to my vitality also the cut-and-dried tasks that both atomic number 53 does, I involve several(prenominal) followings. Among these one is swimming, ceremonial photographs with my parents and subroutine shrink from baseball indorse. swimming i lend oneself-importance it to asseverate my somebodyify in honorable stop and h gray fast sinewy endurance. the avocation of observation movies with my parents is fun and we talked and overlap the eventide opining or so the lift out movie we saw.Baseball is a stake that was implement since my fourthly historic period old by my soda pop and i never stop practicing. My darling pastime is the baseball, because I force out record my gift vie this delight. The baseball is a sport that depends almost ability and head word control. Anyone wad bewilder the tools to be the lift out shoo-iners of ever, besides If the person doesnt direct discernment or fasting some(prenominal) couldnt extend to play this sport. The baseball puzzle a hoard in my carriage and that role encounter my celebrate on the field.The watch that I part being a groovy posteriorstop everybody knows when Im in on that point I the back of the homeplate doing my fix, the work than anyone fannyt do break up than me, nurse and assure my team. Im my action this operation is so important, because my persuasion in the game get wind my self twin than me in the outside. each(prenominal) lot stipulate his billet by his ability, moreover the catcher stain that if you loss to play it, any expertness to be a lider scantily only if to could pronounce it.