The Use of Technologies in Education

Technology, by its broadest meaning, has a very important role in today’s classrooms. The application of that technology, however, must be carefully and strategically implemented in order to be of meaningful value to both teachers and pupils. Throughout history, there have been various inventions of technologies, which have brought about revolutionary changes.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Use of Technologies in Education specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Technology continually changes our world in outstanding ways, observable from the Sumerians’ invention of the first ever-documented writing system of cuneiform, the Egyptians’ invention of the papyrus, the comparatively more recent inventions of the printing press, television, computers, and the internet. Even the casual definition of the word technology has undergone various transformations over time. According to Noah Webster who is c onsidered to have been among the founding fathers of education in America, technology stood for the â€Å"description of arts, or a treatise on the arts.† (Webster, 1828). Today, technology is defined as the practical application of knowledge, especially in a particular area (Cuban, 1998). In the educational setting, technology is referenced as â€Å"whatever the most advanced technologies are available for teaching and learning in a particular area.† (Pea, 1998). With this kind of understanding, one can then confidently assume that technology in the classroom today obviously includes the use of computers, digital media, and the Internet. Although the use of technology in schools has brought some significant improvements, we must ask some multifaceted questions regarding its use (Cuban, 1998). This paper seeks to discuss some of the ways in which television and other mass media has affected students, schools, and education in general. The paper will also seek to look a t some of the pros and cons of using technologies in education. There is no doubt that the mass media plays a significant role in shaping the ideas of school age children. One area where the mass media has really influenced the education sector has been in the dissemination of information concerning gender violence. Although this is not directly linked with the school curriculum, there is no denying that it is an important subject even among students. Indeed, the relationship between gender and violence is complex. The different roles and behaviors of females and males, children as well as adults, are shaped and reinforced by gender norms within society and as expected, this are inherited at the early stages of life. This is the reason why those fighting against gender based violence work with schoolchildren before gender attitudes and behaviors are deeply rooted (Spring, 1982).Advertising Looking for essay on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 1 5% OFF Learn More In schools, media interventions such as the use of television, radio, Internet, newspapers, magazines and other published publications have been found to effect change within schoolchildren (Spring, 1982). These media tools have been found to increase knowledge, challenge attitudes and modify behavior. Media interventions have also been found to alter social norms and values among schoolchildren (e.g. the belief that masculinity is associated with aggression) through public discussions and social interaction. Media campaigns have proved to be successful in increasing knowledge of intimate partner violence and influencing attitudes towards gender violence. In many parts of the world, the use of television and radio has been used in schools to promote social change for improving sexual and reproductive health. Indeed educators have proved that such programs leads to a positive change in attitudes towards gender equity, among those exposed to it (Cuban, 1998) . Additionally, the use of computers in school has greatly influenced the teaching of communication skills in schools. Indeed, there is no denying that communication has become increasingly computerized and electronic. This has called for the need to revise the use of the traditional models of learning in this area. Some English educators suggest that using multimedia technology for teaching literary texts can give students a critical way of approaching sign systems and visual symbols. For example, hypermedia can be used to critically respond to literature using print, visuals, video, sound, and links to websites. Computers have also helped English scholars to expand ‘deep reading’ of media to include ‘deep viewing’ of visual media. This has provided English students with critical skills on how to deconstruct mass media messages and practical skills to construct their own persuasive, multi-media communications (Spring, 1982). Although technology is availabl e in all areas of education, the question that we should ask ourselves is whether all the aspects of education require the use of education for them to be effective (Cuban, 1998).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Use of Technologies in Education specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More There is no denying that some ages, disciplines and learning styles are better suited to different, non-technological learning methods. It is clear, therefore, to have clear goals regarding the use of technology in the classroom, just as we must have clear goals and solutions for how to achieve particular outcomes in all disciplines, with both the presence and absence of technology (Cuban, 1998). Another con of using technology in schools is the high cost involved. All of us will agree that most of the hardware and software used in our schools today needs major capital investments but it becomes obsolete within a very short time. Addit ionally, the proliferation of the home computers, which are intrinsically less expensive to update creates the possibility of the classroom computers becoming largely mediocre to the student’s home computer, thus lowering the value of instruction on the classroom computer. There is also no doubt that some goals are better achieved through non-technological methods. The stages of learning and of cognitive development largely remain unchanged even in an increasingly technologically advanced society. The use of computers should largely be used for play especially in young children whose cognitive development requires a multi sensory approach that is unrealistic to create through technology (Pea, 1998). Apart from modeling unhealthy sexual behaviors, the mass media has been found to negatively influence other aspects of teens’ physical and psychological well-being. Research suggests that media portrayals of unrealistic body images negatively impact teens’ self-estee m (Pea, 1998). Teens, especially young females, become discontent with their bodies and may develop unhealthy eating behaviors in an attempt to achieve media-ideal body types. Although family and social relationships also have an influence, teens learn about society and sexual relationships from visual media images portraying body types, clothing, and other cultural norms. Although the use of such visuals may not be present in the mass media incorporated in schools, students will still believe the information they get from the media at home since its use has already been endorsed in the school setting (Pea, 1998).Advertising Looking for essay on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Having said that, there is no denying that technologies can help us to pose and give answers to basic questions that can lead to fundamental breakthroughs in learning and education. Technology places at our fingertips the most immense access to knowledge and information that any society has ever known. Indeed, psychologists have affirmed that the use of some media tools such as blogs can promote critical and analytical thinking. Additionally, such media tools can be a powerful promoter of creative, intuitive, and associational thinking as well as promote analogical thinking. Using media tools such as the internet can also act as a medium for increasing access and exposure to quality information (Cuban, 1998). Ultimately, the effective implementation of the media in the classroom creates a bridge between school and world by allowing students to intellectually interact with peers, teachers and professionals on a global level. The media by its very nature of supporting diverse learning styles helps in fostering the deeper understanding and greater readiness for lifelong learning. Apart from the students, the use of technology also gives a new approach to teacher professional development. Despite the disadvantages associated with the use of technology in schools, we cannot ignore its use in classrooms. Instead, we should find effective ways to implement educational technology in this Information Age (Cuban, 1998). Conclusion In the recent past, the use of different media tools has found its way in to our classrooms. This has been by way of television, radios, computers and even the internet. The benefits of using technology in our schools are innumerable. By a large part, these media tools have been used to carry on campaigns that have helped to change the thinking pattern and even some behavior in our society. Despite these benefits, there is no denying that the use of technology in learning institutions poses some problems. This is true especially for young chil dren whose cognitive development is largely dependent on a multi sensory approach that is unrealistic to create through technology. Despite these disadvantages, we cannot ignore the use of technology and instead, we should work hard to devise effective ways that can be used to implement educational technology in this Information Age. References Cuban, L. (1998). The Pros and Cons of Technology in the Classroom. Web. Pea, R. (1998). The Pros and Cons of Technology in the Classroom. Web. Spring, J. (1982). Images of American Life: A History of Ideological Management in Schools, Movies, Radio, and Television. New York: Albany. Webster, Noah. (1828). First Edition of an American Dictionary of the English  Language. Massachusetts: Merriam Company. This essay on The Use of Technologies in Education was written and submitted by user Bennett Cabrera to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

The Great Myths of Immigration essays

The Great Myths of Immigration essays "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free." These are the hopeful, inspiring words inscribed on a plaque on the Statue of Liberty. There is a broken chain that lies at her feet symbolizing freedom. She stands tall welcoming immigrants from around the world to the greatest country in the world. The United States has forever been known as the land of the free and a nation of opportunity. We were founded by many cultures drawn here with the hope of a better life, and are now considered to be the "melting pot" of the world. Historically, immigration has improved the image of the United States, and we are often seen as a welcoming country because of the cultural diversity we possess. America used to be a home for immigrants and welcomed them with open arms, but during the early 1800s things started to change. Nativist groups such as the KKK started to form in opposition to immigration, and their views began to spread. Now, immigration is strongly debated, and sometimes propagandized in much of the media. Why is immigration looked at as such a large problem in America? Many feel that our immigration laws are being exploited while illegal immigrants are flooding into our borders. Many also feel that illegal immigrants are stealing jobs from American citizens and are a burden on us financially because they don't have to pay taxes. However, many of the immigration criticisms are exaggerated and some are completely untrue. Illegal immigration is disproportionately focused on in the media and overshadows the fact that immigration is great for our country as it grows the economy, brings new skills and cultural diversity and contributes to a stable and safe society. The largest and most common argument against immigration is that immigrants threaten American life by taking jobs from American workers. While this argument may seem valid to many, it is almost overwhelmingly false. In fact, Augustine Fa...

Trade Dispute between China and the U.S Research Proposal

Trade Dispute between China and the U.S - Research Proposal Example According to Morrison, the U.S. has employed protection of its energy manufacturing firms so that they can spearhead the production of energy (15). This has been executed by the use of subsidies to all firms producing energy in the country. For instance, U.S. President Obama favors the initiation of tax treatment for wind power and solar power as well as an increase in the expenditure of the federal government on the energy sources. The U.S. government has also set aside $50 billion as loans to firms producing nuclear power.  According to Morrison, the U.S. has employed protection of its energy manufacturing firms so that they can spearhead the production of energy (15). This has been executed by the use of subsidies to all firms producing energy in the country. For instance, U.S. President Obama favors the initiation of tax treatment for wind power and solar power as well as an increase in the expenditure of the federal government on the energy sources. The U.S. government has als o set aside $50 billion as loans to firms producing nuclear power.  The U.S. president also seeks to increase the electricity produced from cleaner sources twice by 2035. Such a policy would manipulate the energy markets. Therefore, the U.S. has clear cut goals regarding an increase of clean energy while letting utilities achieve them.  On its part, China has also undertaken various measures toward the manufacture of clean energy. China’s rapid economic growth was fueled by the decision made by the leadership of the country to embrace a capitalist approach to the growth of the economy. This leadership also adapted economic policies that opened up China to foreign investments and implemented free-market reforms in 1979 thereby making it a major global economic and trade power (Morrison 1). Despite its growth, China enforced methods and policies on its people to bolster and maintain the economic growth bordered on dictatorship. Changes in policy and property ownership right s made the Chinese people lose their properties and investments. Economic reforms made much Chinese change their jobs and habitual lifestyles. Redistribution of land to poor peasants and prioritization of agriculture stabilized the agricultural production making it possible for the country to feed its whole population (Thomas 23). The Chinese government owns and controls major industrial and economic sectors in areas such as transport, communication, energy and financial services (Thomas 26). The government regulates the economy by gearing its reforms towards higher productivity, better living standards and exemplary technological quality without aggravating joblessness or inflation.  

Financial_Managment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Financial_Managment - Essay Example The other significant cash flows include the firm’s cash flows from operations. These are derived by first getting the revenues after multiplying the forecasted sales volume to the sales price. After getting the revenues, the variable costs for labor and variable costs for materials are subtracted the gross contribution margin is derived. By deducting the additional fixed costs for the project and the depreciation expenses with the absence of income taxes in the analysis is derived, the incremental profit which is also the incremental cash flow. This incremental operating cash flow is significant in the latter analysis for getting the net present value and internal rate of return. The forecasted operating cash flows for the company are as follows: 1350000 in 2008, 1150000 in 2009, 1850000 in 2010, 1100000 in 2011, and 450000 in 2012. The last significant cash flow figure is the terminal cash flow which is comprised of the salvage value of the machinery as well as the recovery of working capital. The salvage value is derived getting the 10% of the purchase price of the machinery amounting to 425,000, which are the estimated selling price of the machinery after five years. The recovery of the working capital at the end of the project amounts to 1350000 in 2012. The total cash flows are then computed according to the year when they occurred. After the significant cash flows are computed, the time value of money should be considered as regards the timing of the cash flow in order to assess the investment well. Because of the time value of money, we need to bring the total cash flows and get their present value using the 12% hurdle rate as discount factor. By getting the present value of the cash flows then deducting the initial investment, we get a net present value of 777,745. The rule of thumb for getting the net present

Statement of purpose Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Statement of purpose - Essay Example I chose to major in English Language because I had a clear vision of the advantages of learning English. I became aware of the difficulties in learning the language, surmounted these difficulties with the guidance of my teachers, and decided to use my experience to help my people to learn and use the language for their material, cultural and spiritual progress. Some of my teachers were native speakers of English. There were advantages in learning their language from them, but I think some of my people may find it easier to be taught by one of their own. It was, therefore, natural, that I should apply for the post of an English Language teacher in my country. By the grace of God, the authorities recognized my qualifications, my skills, and my ambition and appointed me to the post. Again, by the grace of God, they acknowledged my merits by promoting me very soon to the position of Head of the General Studies Department. Even as I was trying to master the art of teaching a foreign language to my countrymen, in my early days of teaching, I knew that I needed to learn more about the language and about the latest methods of teaching. When I became Head of the General Studies Department, I realized that I should wait no longer. I discussed this with the Director of the Institute, and he warmly supported my views and wishes.

The Importance Of Good Governance To Democracy Politics Essay

The Importance Of Good Governance To Democracy Politics Essay Democracy cannot flourish in the absence of good governance. The pre-condition for good governance is effective democratic institutions for democratizing the society. Improvement of the living standard of people cannot happen where people cannot participate in governance, human rights are not respected, information does not flow, and civil society and the judiciary are weak. Nine criteria of to be referred as the Nine Is of good governance or Nine I model of good governance. In the absence of these Nine Is good governance in Bangladesh like any other country will be a far cry. These components constitute the foundations of modern democracy and create the underpinning to establish free economy and spur domestic and foreign investment, specially the potential investment of the Non Resident Bangladeshis ( NRBs) particularly in the case of Bangladesh. It is not true that only elections lead to a democracy. Democracy should be home work (Manifesto) of the political parties where they ought to outline their ideas and concept of democracy they want to offer to the citizens in lieu of their votes. The political parties should make it vividly transparent as to how and when they will apply their policies for establishing a democratic society ensuring parity, rule of law, equitable distribution of wealth, social justice, freedom of speech and thought if voted to power. The political philosophy and the commitment of the political parties should be expressed in the form of party manifesto much ahead of elections for empowering the voters so that they can make good governance may be used to determine whether any country qualifies to have good governance are: 1. INDEPENDENT AND NON PARTISAN ELECTION COMMISSION 2. INDEPENDENT JUDICIARY AND THE RULE OF LAW 3. INDEPENDENT MEDIA AND FREEDOM OF SPEECH 4. INDEPENDENT ANTI-CORRUPTION COMMISSION 5. INVESTING IN THE PEOPLE 6. INDEPENDENT AND EFFECTIVE PARLIAMENT 7. INDEPENDENT HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION 8. INDEPENDENT OMBUDSMAN SYSTEM 9. INVESTMENT FRIENDLY GOVERNMENT. I would propose these Nine components informed decisions before casting their votes during the elections. In Bangladesh, unfortunately the practice of presenting the manifesto of the political parties are not transparent and as such it may be stated that political commitment of the parties to the people is also not transparent which gives the parties a space to shift form their commitments and promise after the election. Sound policies and their execution are essential pre-condition of development. Good Governance necessarily means govern justly, invest in the people, and encourages private economic enterprise. Bangladesh is yet to promote principles of good governance, and initiative of our civil society reinforces the need for good governance. Through cooperative ventures of our parliament, judiciary, executive organ of the state along with the civil society it is possible to enact policies and design the governance so that human dignity and freedom are allowed to flourish. Some of the principles of good governance date back to the time of ancient Greece . Others are principles developed in more recent years, or lessons learned from our own history and that of other democracy practicing societies. Broadly speaking, good governance promotes fundamental and universal human rights. As per constitution of Bangladesh , the political power lies with the people  (Article 7). Principles of good governance allow people to pursue their lives in a just, equitable and democratic society. Countries like Bangladesh need the tools to educate their citizens to take part in the opportunities offered by the global economy. We need to do hard work to eradicate corruption. Perhaps the most basic and important principle of good governance is that a nations political institutions be democratic. In the words of Abraham Lincoln, democracy is a form of government of the people, by the people, and for the people. This means that the rights and principles of democratic government can and should be universally applied. They are not a uniquely American invention. The right of every person to speak freely about his government is a basic human right to overcome bad governance even by a elected government by the party, for the politician and nothing for the people. The right of any citizens to express his opinion about his government is one that is supported by the doctrine Rule by the Ruled as has been recognized by nations all over the world. Now let us examine the Nine Is of Good governance INDEPENDENT AND NON PARTISAN ELECTION COMMISSION Independent and Non Partisan Election Commission is a precondition for free fair participative elections to elect public representative to the parliament. Elections, however, are not the only cornerstone to democracy. Accountable leadership and fulfillment of the will of the people are essential to ensuring that elections are a means to a democratic society, not an end in themselves. It is critical that a nations elections be free and fair in level plane ground. This means that every citizen have a equal access and opportunity to compete to become public representative. Voters have a choice among candidates and that they have a right to information concerning those candidates background. Free and fair elections are open and transparent to all people without discrimination based on sex, religion, or race. Such elections are not restricted by government interference and coercion by money and muscle. The right to free and fair elections should be guaranteed by independent nonpartisan election commission having appropriate capabilities and skill to deliver honest acceptable elections. And such elected government can only be held accountable to their citizens. Voters should be able to participate freely in the political process, whether through political parties or independent candidates. INDEPENDENT JUDICIARY AND THE RULE OF LAW Another criterion of good governance is independent judiciary, important for preserving the rule of law. It is very essential to have a strong judiciary and courts to ensure that a nations laws are enforced constantly and fairly. All organs of government must be law abiding. The rule of law also is the basis for the formation of business enterprises and the establishment of a free market, which underpin economic development. Citizens or their elected representatives should be involved in all levels of lawmaking including the local government. Another characteristic of good governance is the presence of constitutional limits on the political power. Such limits include transparent, creditable, periodic elections, guarantees of Fundamental Rights, guarantees of Human Rights by a independent judiciary, which allows citizens to seek protection of their rights and redress against government actions. These limit help make government departments accountable to each other and to the people. Accountability is another characteristic that is considered globally for the eligibility when determining whether a country practices good governance. Not only should the law be enforced, but it should also be enforced fairly and without any sort of discrimination. Good governance means equal protection for all without any discrimination of sex, cast, creeds, and race. An open and easy access to judicial and administrative systems. A nations courts should not be open to only a select few. Government agencies should allow appeals of regulations as well as citizen participation in their decision-making process, and citizens should be granted access to these bodies in a timely and easy manner. Governments also have a duty to protect their citizens from criminal violence, especially the practice of trafficking of persons. Women, girls and children are most vulnerable to this illegal trade, which can only be stopped by diligent law enforcement. Respect for the Citizens rights relating to personal privacy is a far cry in a weak democracy like Bangladesh . INDEPENDENT MEDIA AND FREEDOM OF SPEECH To function properly, a democratic society must ensure free exchange of information and ideas. This is best realized in the creation of a free and open media and the freedoms of speech and expression. A free and independent media provides voters with the information they need to make informed decisions. It facilitates the exchange of political discourse, creating an open place for ideas where no view is neglected and the best are chosen. Free Media can also serve as a check on government power ensuring that bureaucracy, public officials and government departments remain accountable to the voters. The medias ability to report on trade and industry and the economy is also important for preserving public trust in the free economy and for attracting domestic and foreign investment including the potential investment of the NRBs. The right of the free media to publish, to editorialize, to criticize, and to inform is a fundamental principle of democracy. INDEPENDENT ANTI-CORRUPTION COMMISSION Good governance also means combating corruptions, and countries can not be considered having good governance, if they are corrupt. To preserve the integrity of democracy, governments must strive to rid themselves of corruptions and bribery. Corruption destroys economic foundations, impedes the ability of developing countries to attract foreign investment. Corruption hinders the growth of democratic institutions, and concentrates power in the hands of a few having money and muscle. The best way to combat corruption is for governments to be open and transparent. Official Secrecy Act must not be abused. While in certain cases governments have a responsibility to retain secrecy and confidentiality regarding national security and alike issues. Strong laws against corruption, application of such laws and the actions of law enforcement agencies that work against corruption demonstrate a governments commitment to this principle. INVESTING IN THE PEOPLE Good governance requires that governments invest in their people and work to preserve the welfare of their citizens, without regard to gender, race or religion. Governments should invest in health care, nutrition, housing, education, and poverty elevation. They should ensure an economic environment where people can find jobs and establish business enterprises. Along with other measures, a governments ability to provide job and a high standard of living for its people is considered by the democratic world in determining governmental effectiveness. The importance of the other Four Is i.e., Independent and Effective Parliament, Independent Human Rights Commission, Independent Ombudsman System, Investment Friendly Government could not be discussed here due to limitations of space which I have intention to discuss later in some other articles of mine. CONCLUSION Only practicing these components  (Nine- Is)  of good governance results in a democratic society where people can pursue their hopes and aspirations. This will facilitate the creation of free markets, which are trusted by investors and financial institutions. Good governance is a pre-condition for any economic development. Development cannot flourish where people cannot participate in governance, human rights are not respected, information does not flow, and civil society and the judiciary are weak. UNDP and the World Bank, among others, have come to realize that development assistance that focuses only on economic governance at the expense of democratic governance fails. The proof is that, 42 of the 49 high human development countries on the UN Development Index are democracies  (UNDP source). With few exceptions, all of the worlds richest countries have the worlds most democratic governance. The fundamental rights and the standard of living of Bangladeshi citizens will be enhanced through good governance. But one has to remember the rule that no good governance no democracy. Governments that govern rationally with the commitment of good governance become democratic and get support for their reform efforts from their people as well as from the democratic world. #

Anabolic Steroids :: Papers Research Drugs Essays

Anabolic Steroids "Anabolic steroids" is the familiar name for synthetic substances related to the male sex hormones (androgens). They promote the growth of skeletal muscle (anabolic effects) and the development of male sexual characteristics (androgenic effects), and also have some other effects. The term "anabolic steroids" will be used through-out this report because of its familiarity, although the proper term for these compounds is "anabolic-androgenic" steroids. Anabolic steroids were developed in the late 1930s primarily to treat hypogonadism, a condition in which the testes do not produce sufficient testosterone for normal growth, development, and sexual functioning. The primary medical uses of these compounds are to treat delayed puberty, some types of impotence, and wasting of the body caused by HIV infection or other diseases. During the 1930s, scientists discovered that anabolic steroids could facilitate the growth of skeletal muscle in laboratory animals, which led to use of the compounds first by bodybuilders and weightlifters and then by athletes in other sports. Steroid abuse has become so widespread in athletics that it affects the outcome of sports contests. More than 100 different anabolic steroids have been developed, but they require a prescription to be used legally in the United States. Most steroids that are used illegally are smuggled in from other countries, illegally diverted from U.S. pharmacies, or synthesized in clandestine laboratories. What are steroidal supplements? In the United States, supplements such as dehydroepian-drosterone (DHEA) and androstenedione (street name Andro) can be purchased legally without a prescription through many commercial sources including health food stores. They are often referred to as dietary supplements, although they are not food products. They are often taken because the user believes they have anabolic effects. Steroidal supplements can be converted into testosterone (an important male sex hormone) or a similar compound in the body. Whether such conversion produces sufficient quantities of testosterone to promote muscle growth or whether the supplements themselves promote muscle growth is unknown. Little is known about the side effects of steroidal supplements, but if large quantities of these compounds substantially increase testosterone levels in the body, they also are likely to produce the same side effects as anabolic steroids. What is the scope of steroid abuse in the United States? Recent evidence suggests that steroid abuse among adolescents is on the rise. The 1999 Monitoring the Future study, a NIDA-funded survey of drug abuse among adolescents in middle and high schools across the United States, estimated that 2.7 percent of 8th- and 10th-graders and 2. Anabolic Steroids :: Papers Research Drugs Essays Anabolic Steroids "Anabolic steroids" is the familiar name for synthetic substances related to the male sex hormones (androgens). They promote the growth of skeletal muscle (anabolic effects) and the development of male sexual characteristics (androgenic effects), and also have some other effects. The term "anabolic steroids" will be used through-out this report because of its familiarity, although the proper term for these compounds is "anabolic-androgenic" steroids. Anabolic steroids were developed in the late 1930s primarily to treat hypogonadism, a condition in which the testes do not produce sufficient testosterone for normal growth, development, and sexual functioning. The primary medical uses of these compounds are to treat delayed puberty, some types of impotence, and wasting of the body caused by HIV infection or other diseases. During the 1930s, scientists discovered that anabolic steroids could facilitate the growth of skeletal muscle in laboratory animals, which led to use of the compounds first by bodybuilders and weightlifters and then by athletes in other sports. Steroid abuse has become so widespread in athletics that it affects the outcome of sports contests. More than 100 different anabolic steroids have been developed, but they require a prescription to be used legally in the United States. Most steroids that are used illegally are smuggled in from other countries, illegally diverted from U.S. pharmacies, or synthesized in clandestine laboratories. What are steroidal supplements? In the United States, supplements such as dehydroepian-drosterone (DHEA) and androstenedione (street name Andro) can be purchased legally without a prescription through many commercial sources including health food stores. They are often referred to as dietary supplements, although they are not food products. They are often taken because the user believes they have anabolic effects. Steroidal supplements can be converted into testosterone (an important male sex hormone) or a similar compound in the body. Whether such conversion produces sufficient quantities of testosterone to promote muscle growth or whether the supplements themselves promote muscle growth is unknown. Little is known about the side effects of steroidal supplements, but if large quantities of these compounds substantially increase testosterone levels in the body, they also are likely to produce the same side effects as anabolic steroids. What is the scope of steroid abuse in the United States? Recent evidence suggests that steroid abuse among adolescents is on the rise. The 1999 Monitoring the Future study, a NIDA-funded survey of drug abuse among adolescents in middle and high schools across the United States, estimated that 2.7 percent of 8th- and 10th-graders and 2.

Coso and Basel

Financial Collapses and Regulations New England College of Business In an era of risky investments and failed financial institutions, additional importance is being placed on businesses implementing Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) plans. ERM is defined by the Institute of Internal Auditors (2012) as an approach designed to â€Å"identify, quantify, respond to, and monitor the consequences of potential events implemented by management. † Without an ERM plan, transparency to shareholders and internal accountability are nearly impossible to achieve.COSO and Basel are both reactive frameworks to increased regulatory changes that forced institutions to show more transparency to their financial reporting, in order to manage operational risks, mitigate the likelihood of a collapse, and ensure stability in volatile market conditions (Farnan 2004; Balin 2008); these measures increase confidence in investors. This comparative analysis of COSO and Basel seeks to indentify common measure s that are necessary to form a functional ERM plan, the most important being the accountability of management and its communication with the Board (The New Basel Accord 2003).A Comparative Analysis of ERM Guidelines: COSO I/II and Basel I/II Introduction Due to the epidemic of failed financial systems seen over the past decade, agencies and private organizations (e. g. , Securities and Exchange Commission, NICE, etc. ) have set in place guidelines for the standardization of reporting and evaluating risk in an effort to eliminate â€Å"surprise† collapses in the future (NICE Systems Ltd. 2012).Alexander Campbell, Editor, Operational Risk & Regulation, states that â€Å"regulatory approaches are changing† and requiring companies to streamline processes for monitoring internal risks at a company, such as fraud (NICE Systems Ltd. 2012). Common goals of organizing committees trying to tackle regulatory challenges are to improve communication between the board and management , increase shareholders' confidence, and most importantly, for entities to thoroughly evaluate their liquidity so that in the event of a crisis, investors' assets are secured (Bressac 2005; Decamps,Rochet, & Roger 2003). This comparative analysis of COSO and Basel identifies the standards these documents set for institutions to maintain an Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) plan, as well as the affects these documents' shortcomings and constraints have on entities which apply either COSO or Basel. Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) is defined by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) (2012) as an approach designed to â€Å"identify, quantify, respond to, and monitor the consequences of potential events implemented by management. It is important for all parties affiliated with an institution's ERM plan to clearly identify and understand the events that impact a company's value in order for the entity to achieve its objectives (IIA 2012). The frameworks COSO and Basel both attempt to b e reactive solutions to public events in which lack of an adequate ERM plan has contributed to a collapse of a major institution or market which had a detrimental affect on the public (Farnan 2004; Lall 2009).Both documents have been explored by many key opinion leaders in the financial industry, and while each provides a set of guidelines for developing successful ERM protocols, each also fails to be foolproof. Shaw (2006) provides the argument that â€Å"while the COSO standard was groundbreaking at the time, it was not meant to be a marking guide for controls. † Moreover, in regards to Pillar 3 of the Basel Accord which depicts methods of Value-At-Risk (VAR) calculations, Standard and Poor's noted that although these VAR methods â€Å"appear to offer mathematical precision†¦they are not a magic bullet† (Lall 2009).COSO and Basel can be seen as â€Å"a significant step forward† for the times (Saurina and Persaud 2008). Basel In 1974, the Basel Committee o f Banking Supervision (BCBS) was created (consisting of the G10 plus Luxembourg and Spain) in light of the challenges from an increasingly internationalized banking system (Lall 2009). In the 1980s, it became clear (post-Latin America Debt Crisis, 1982) that a process was needed regulate the international banking system to mitigate risk and manage losses (Lall 2009).The first Basel Accord and Basel II, referred to as â€Å"Basel,† is a method of risk management, specifically for financial institutions operating on a multi-national level, that sets minimum capital requirements (â€Å"8% of adjusted assets† (Decamps, Rochet, & Roger 2003)) that these institutions must uphold to minimize the risk of a collapse in the international banking system (Lamy 2006).Basel I, the first international accord on bank capital was established in 1988, by the BCBS (Finance & Development 2008), with the goal to â€Å"arrive at significantly more risk-sensitive capital requirements† with the primary objective in line with ensuring stability in the international banking system (Lamy 2006). In 2004, Basel II was introduced, with amendments in response to the Quantitative Impact Study, QIS 3, (published in May 2003), an increase in the amount of capital banks must set aside for â€Å"high-risk exposures,† and changes from feedback from banks on Basel I (Finance & Development 2008; Lamy 2006).The Basel framework is focused on three â€Å"pillars†: â€Å"a minimum capital adequacy requirement, supervisory review, and market discipline† (Decamps, Rochet, & Roger 2003). Basel I was highly criticized for having a â€Å"one size fits all† approach to formulating institutions' risk-weighted assets (with insensitivity to emerging countries), in addition to unrealistic capital requirements that discouraged even reasonable risk taking (Kaufman 2003). In response to these critiques, BCSB began to draft Basel II, in which the amendments to Pillar I (310 out of ~350 pages of the document (Balin 2008)) were most notable.Balin (2008) describes the â€Å"menu† of various options that Basel II encompasses for Pillar I, which allow institutions to choose the most suitable options dependent on a series of factors (i. e. , size, rating, etc. ). The minimum capital requirement pillar focuses on the least amount of capital a bank must maintain to be protected from credit, operational, and market risks (Ahmed and Khalidi 2007). In Basel II, the highly critiqued credit risk requirements were modified to decrease the â€Å"one size fits all† stigma of Basel I (Kaufman 2003).Additionally, Basel II takes into account loopholes found in Basel I that enabled banks to maintain their desired level of risk â€Å"while cosmetically assuaging to minimum capital adequacy requirements,† which was done mainly through a transfer of assets to holding companies and subsidiaries (Balin 2008). Similar to COSO framework, the first pil lar of Basel seeks to unite various types of risks into an overall evaluation of capital requirements to safeguard shareholders and investors. Pillar 2, theSupervisory Review, is meant to â€Å"insure that banks have adequate capital to support all the risks in their business† including, but not limited to, the calculations in Pillar 1 (Kaufman 2003). This Pillar clearly defines of obligations of supervisory oversight against extreme risk taking; of note in this Pillar is line 680, which states: â€Å"Supervisors are expected to evaluate how well banks are assessing their capital needs relative to their risks and to intervene, where appropriate.This interaction is intended to foster an active dialogue between banks and supervisors such that when deficiencies are identified, prompt and decisive action can be taken to reduce risk or restore capital† (The New Basel Capital Accord 2003). The four principles of Pillar 2 seek to hold the supervisors responsible for implicati ng processes, reviewing, setting expectations, and intervening when warranted in regard to management of capital risks (The New Basel Capital Accord 2003). Pillar 3 seeks to protect against changes in asset prices (market risk) (Balin 2008), which is an addition to the credit risk factors of Basel I.Using the Value-At-Risk (VAR) model, banks were able to determine the probability of a portfolio's value decreasing by more than a set amount over a given time period (Lall 2009). Critics of the VAR model, such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), claim that it fails to account for â€Å"extreme market events† and assumes that the â€Å"processes generating market events were stable† (Lall 2009). COSO In July 2002, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) was passed with the goals of increasing investor and public confidence â€Å"in the post-Enron era† and increasing management accountability, among others (Farnan 2004).Section 404 of SOX states that effective for some lar ge companies, beginning December 31, 2004, a â€Å"separate management report on internal control effectiveness and audit by the organization's external financial statement auditor† is required (Farnan 2004). COSO's framework lays out a path for developing efficient operations and regulatory compliance methods, and has been established as the framework recommended by agencies such as the SEC for public companies to base their financial reporting on (Farnan 2004).The Committee of Sponsoring Organization of the Treadway Commissions (COSO) is comprised of five private organizations in the financial industry (COSO Web site 2012). The COSO organization was established in 1995 with the mission to â€Å"provide thought leadership through the development of comprehensive frameworks and guidance on enterprise risk management, internal control and fraud deterrence,† and attempts to enhance success and leadership, and minimize fraud in company reporting (COSO Web site 2012).Since its establishment, COSO has published frameworks â€Å"aimed at helping publicly traded companies cope with tough new monitoring requirements mandated by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act† (Shaw 2006), and to help businesses manage risk, by looking at business units as an entire entity, designed to improve organizational performance and governance and to reduce the extent of fraud in organization (COSO Web site 2012).The COSO framework is a cube comprised of four (three in COSO I) company objectives perpendicular to eight (five in COSO I) factors that together form a risk assessment program for which companies can reduce risks by realizing the amount of capital needed for consequences (Bressac 2005). Similar to Basel, COSO dictates that â€Å"the board is responsible for overseeing management's design and operation of ERM† (Bressac 2005).One factor that COSO framework includes is the measurement of a company's risk appetite, â€Å"the amount of risk, on a broad level, an entity is willing to accept in pursuit of value† (Rittenberg and Martens 2012). Many objectives that management sets for their company (i. e. , increase market share, win competitive tenders) include a substantial amount of risk, and COSO's strategic decision-making framework allows managers to present the objectives in relation to appetite to the Board for approval (Rittenberg and Martens 2012).Conclusions Both COSO and Basel were drawn to effectively respond to new implications (Sarbanes-Oxley Act (Shaw 2006) and new laws capital requirements for banks (Lamy 2006), respectively), and each have principles that can help institutions manage ERM more effectively. For example, The New Basel Capital Accord (2003) clearly articulates that setting a minimum amount of available capital resources is â€Å"a vital element of the strategic planning process,† and the three pillars devise a plan to do this.Bressec (2005) claims that COSO II framework articulates a way for managers to eff ectively deal with the events that create uncertainty for entities and create responses to minimize potential losses. COSO and Basel were both released in the infancy stage and flawed. Samad-Khan (2005) observed that COSO's creditability is diminished because consequences are predicted to occur much more frequently than had been historically recorded in the past.Supporters acknowledge that Basel II has â€Å"arcane† ideas, but defend that â€Å"it's still a step in the right direction because it increases financial oversight and makes sure banks won't be doomed by crises of confidence† (Coy 2008). It is important to note that while COSO and Basel offer much protection against quantitative risk assessments, they must be coupled with the knowledge and insight of senior risk managements to be most efficient (Lall 2009; Samad-Khan 2005).Moreover, both COSO and Basel also provide constraints that limit the amount of risks institutions can endure, sometimes excessively. Pall (2009) discusses one failure in Basel II as the ability for developed-nation banks to skew their reports to their desired results, â€Å"at the expense of their smaller and emerging market competitors and, above all, systemic financial stability. † Samad-Khan (2005) emphasizes that historical data is still the most reliable way for companies to determine the probability for risk to occur.Start-ups will not have this historical data, therefore may overestimate their probability of risk using the â€Å"likelihood x impact = risk† calculation (Samad-Khan 2005) and miss out on potentially positive opportunities. Others against the provisions claim that both documents (e. g. , Basel in the Emerging markets) implement concessions that constrain potential growth by overcompensating for potential consequences and depleting lending capital for banks, which in the 1930s contributed to the Great Depression (Coy 2008). Historical events depict the need for more stringent regulato ry guidelines in this era of financial market uncertainty.The most important common factor of Basel and COSO are that each clearly states that it is management's responsibility to have a functional ERM plan in place, and be in communication with the Board about potential risks that the company faces (Bressec 2005; The New Basel Capital Accord 2003). Holding management accountable for the risks the business takes, while making sure that the Board is in agreement with management's plan creates a necessary harmony of a checks and balances system, in turn creating a â€Å"safer† landscape for shareholders and the public to place faith in. When properly executed,

Abortion

ABORTION SHOULD BE ILLEGAL IN CANADA BECAUSE IN THE CANADIAN CHARTER OF RIGHTS AND FREEDOM, UNDER LEGAL RIGHTS IT SAYS EVERYONE HAS THE RIGHT TO LIFE, LIBERTY AND SECURITY OF THE PERSON AND THE RIGHT NOT TO BE DEPRIVED THEREOF EXCEPT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRINCIPLES OF FUNDAMENTAL JUSTICE. (1) WE DONT HAVE THE RIGHTS TO TAKE AWAY SOMEONES LIFE. IT ISNT A MATTER OF CHOICE. WHEN TWO PEOPLE AGREE TO HAVE SEXUAL INTERCOURSE, THEY SHOULD THINK ABOUT WHAT THE CANADIAN LAW, CHARTER OF RIGHTS AND FREEDOM, UNDER LEGAL RIGHTS, IS BEING HYPOCRITICAL. ITS BEING HYPOCRITICAL BECAUSE IT SAYS THAT EVERYONE HAS THE RIGHT TO LIVE. SO IF EVERYONE HAS THE RIGHT TO LIVE, THEN WHY HAVE ABORTION? ABORTION IS LIKE KILLING SOMEONE. DOESNT A CHILD HAVE THE RIGHT TO LIVE ON THIS EARTH? THE CANADIAN LAW SHOWS AS IF THEY CARE SO MUCH ABOUT A PERSONS LIFE, ESPECIALLY A CHILDS LIFE, BUT HAVING CHILD BENEFIT, AND ETC. IF THEY REALLY DO CARE ABOUT A CHILDS LIFE SO MUCH, THEN THEY SHOULD MAKE ABORTION ILLEGAL. IF A BORTION IS LEGAL, THEN MURDER AND, SUECIDE SHOULD BE LEGAL, BECAUSE EITHER WAY SOMEONE WILL BE DIEING. THE FETUS MAY NOT HAVE A MOUTH TO TALK WITH, BUT IT DOES HAVE FEELINGS, AND EMOTIONS LIKE EVERYBODY ELSE, BUT IT JUST CANT EXPRESS THEIR FEELINGS, BECAUSE THEY ARE TRAPPED IN A CAGE (WOMB), WHERE THEY CANT TELL US HOW THEY FEEL ABOUT GETTING ABORTED. ABORTION SHOULD ONLY BE LEGAL WHEN YOU HAVE SEXUAL INTERCOURSE WITH SOMEONE YOU DONT WANT IT WITH (RAPE), OR IF THE MOTHER HAS SOME SORT OF SICKNESS. WE ARE NOT ALLOWED TO TAKE AWAY SOMEONES LIFE. GOD CREATED HUMANS, SO IT IS GODS JOB TO TAKE THEM AWAY WHENEVER HE WANTS TO. WHAT DID A FETUS EVER DO TO DESERVE THIS KIND OF TREATMENT? I AGREE WITH THE FACT THAT, IF A WOMAN GETS RAPED, AND WAS PREGNANT, THEN IN THAT CASE ABORTION SHOULD BE

Free Essays on Tragic Reason Within The Quotation Marks

Have you ever discovered an interesting character in a play or story that you thought didn’t know what they were doing? Some would be baffled by discovering that concept within the pages of a Neo-Classical play, Phaedra, by Racine. This work of literature would be considered by many to be nothing but a triadic play with little or no reasoning. Sometimes the reasons behind one’s actions can be foretold by what you read in-between the quotations marks. Examination will be complete over three interesting quotes from three exceedingly different characters from within this saga. Phaedra with her obsessive nature dealing with controlling her passions; Oenone showing that she understood how important her mistress’s honor was; and then Theseus complete with uncontrolled jealousy and blinded by his rage condemns his son to death. To start with we will observe a women beaten down and plagued by her own desires, and does not know how to handle her emotions. The main character of the play and a title role as well, Phaedra, was overcome with passion for her step-son and expresses her burning desire to expire in order to save not only her name, but her children and Theseus’s as well. In Act III, Scene 3, line 35 is where Phaedra shows how affected she is by the feelings she craves with every fiber of her being for her stepson, but yet is not afraid to die rather then give into them. â€Å"Death is not fearful to a suffering mind.† Its philosophical meaning proves that Phaedra was not afraid to die, but to was more distressed about her letting herself give into temptation with Hippolytus. She has an honorable grasp to what she must have to do in order to keep the family name respected among the people. Phaedra lets no one know of her mania except her maidservant Oenone, which will lead us to our secon d analysis. When one thinks of a servant, Oenone is the perfect example. One might suggest that she takes the job a bit too far at times, and t... Free Essays on Tragic Reason Within The Quotation Marks Free Essays on Tragic Reason Within The Quotation Marks Have you ever discovered an interesting character in a play or story that you thought didn’t know what they were doing? Some would be baffled by discovering that concept within the pages of a Neo-Classical play, Phaedra, by Racine. This work of literature would be considered by many to be nothing but a triadic play with little or no reasoning. Sometimes the reasons behind one’s actions can be foretold by what you read in-between the quotations marks. Examination will be complete over three interesting quotes from three exceedingly different characters from within this saga. Phaedra with her obsessive nature dealing with controlling her passions; Oenone showing that she understood how important her mistress’s honor was; and then Theseus complete with uncontrolled jealousy and blinded by his rage condemns his son to death. To start with we will observe a women beaten down and plagued by her own desires, and does not know how to handle her emotions. The main character of the play and a title role as well, Phaedra, was overcome with passion for her step-son and expresses her burning desire to expire in order to save not only her name, but her children and Theseus’s as well. In Act III, Scene 3, line 35 is where Phaedra shows how affected she is by the feelings she craves with every fiber of her being for her stepson, but yet is not afraid to die rather then give into them. â€Å"Death is not fearful to a suffering mind.† Its philosophical meaning proves that Phaedra was not afraid to die, but to was more distressed about her letting herself give into temptation with Hippolytus. She has an honorable grasp to what she must have to do in order to keep the family name respected among the people. Phaedra lets no one know of her mania except her maidservant Oenone, which will lead us to our secon d analysis. When one thinks of a servant, Oenone is the perfect example. One might suggest that she takes the job a bit too far at times, and t...

US History Since 1887 Movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

US History Since 1887 - Movie Review Example The melancholy of that time in history is very well filmed by the director with the opening scenes showing ramshackle of houses and dust moving in circles all around. This scene portrays what deteriorated condition of the place was at that time. The story is about the struggles of Okies for bread and butter when their farms were closed by force by banks as the banks were financially collapsing. The movie revolves around the Joads family but the central character in my view in Tom Joad, who is released from prison only to find that his family no more live in their house by the farm. He soon finds them in a relatives place. The Joads are happy to have Tom back and they tell him about their plans to go to California, the land where they think they could find work and start living in a better condition. The Joads are shown to be in high spirits as they load all of their belongings in a truck that is to be driven by Tom. They all load in the truck, Ma Joad, Pa Joad, Grandpa Joad, Grandma Joad, Noah, Muley, Connie and Uncle John. There is no gender bias done by the director as he not only portrays the important role of Tom Joad in moving the family ahead after he returns from jail but the role of Ma Joad is no less emphasized. She is a strong woman from the very start of the movie to the very end of it, having a very deep love for his son Tom in jail; she is shown to have kept track of Tom all the while that he had been in jail. Although she was the one who did not want to go to California as her intuitions were telling her that something is wrong in going there, but her immense support for the family is depicted when she is shown to add a drug to rigid Pas coffee to get him into the truck. She has been shown to be the backbone of the family. As their loaded truck moves through the roads of America, the director has very amazingly depicted the landscape of that time, with houses that are dilapidated and all the farms and land is shown to

Geological hazards in the area Aci Castello in sicily in Italy Essay

Geological hazards in the area Aci Castello in sicily in Italy - Essay Example The first of this was a field research, which required the researcher to report at the location, interact with residents and experts, gather field evidence and analyse findings from the site. There was another form of data collection, which was secondary data collection. The secondary data collection actually took the larger part of the data collection process. This is because the researcher was interested in comparing the findings made by different researchers and geologists about volcanoes at Mount Etna. At the end of the data collection process, it was found that Mount Etna is an active volcano located at Aci Castello, which is the focus and centre of the current research. Mount Etna was selected as part of efforts to focus specifically on volcanoes as part of the geological hazards of Aci Castello. Aci Castello is also famous for its agricultural successes, which serve as the major economic output of the area (Azzaro, 2011). Out of the rocks stands the famous ancient Norman Castle, which was constructed in 1081. Upon the outward beauty of the place, there lie some critical geological concerns, which form the problem for the current research. The problem has to do with the geographic hazards in the area of Aci Castello, particularly the volcanology of the place. This research problem is interesting for a number of reasons. In the first place, it serves an academic significance for students of geography who would need to come up with real life activities of active and dormant volcanoes. There study is also significant in having practical interventions and approaches to dealing with what has become infamous recent volcano eruption activity at Mount Etna. The report therefore aims to critically analyse volcanoes at Aci Castello, particularly the infamous Mount Etna with the purpos e of identifying the trend of activities of these volcanoes so that necessary geological precautions could be taken at these. This will be achieved by undertaking both