Learning Team Reflection Essay Example for Free

Learning Team Reflection Essay Training Plan Implementing an effective training plan is necessary in order for a company to be successful. A structured training plan for Landslide Limousines will ensure employees are aware of the company’s objectives and goals. According to Bradley Stonefield, the training plan for Landslide Limousine will entail three key components a set of needs assessment, types of training methods, and training evaluations strategies. Training offers reliable information and skill to an employee about the company’s prospects and procedures. Properly trained employees contribute to a company’s achievement of goals and ultimate success. Each team member chose topics to evaluate and research effectively and apply there relevance towards the team discussion. Our first communication with Bradley Stonefield informed Atwood and Allen that he wishes to hire 25 employees and have a location in Austin, Texas. The second conversation with Mr. Stonefield led to information regarding the annual net revenue of negative $50,000 in his first year and a growth prediction of 5% over a couple of years. Most recently, Atwood and Allen has learned that Mr. Stonefield predicts that his annual employee turnover rate will be 10%, and his concern on cost for the training plan. The needs assessment constitutes several aspects revolving around the daily operations, individual employees, environment, organizational and demographical information of a business. Operational Analysis Designing an operational plan for the Landslide Limousine service determines the efficiency of various aspects within the small business operation. The  process usually begins with a period of observations, the group of individuals performing the analysis watches and takes detailed notes on a day-to-day operation of the limousine business in the initial stage. Logical reasoning methods assist in compiling the information used in the process with various mathematical models and statistical analysis. Operational analysis aims to determine whether each area of the organization is contributing effectively to overall performance and the furthering of company strategy. Using the operational analysis to ensure that the business Mr. Bradley wants to start should align appropriately with the company’s strategic plan. By examining the current performance of the operational portion of an investment, and then measuring that against an established set of performance parameters and goals, operational analysis within the business can reveal the company’s strengths and weaknesses as well as any opportunities for improvement with the individuals he may want to hire for future employment. With all the detailed information our team gathered in order to best serve and provide the right information for this business, by conducting an operational analysis, this should seek to examine a number of functional areas within the business; including strategic planning, customer results, and business results, financial performance, and quality of innovation. Now, the objective process should principally be to reassess existing processes and determine how objectives improve, how costs minimized and even, on occasion, eliminating a task. Operational analysis can be a relatively simple process for the company and meaningful in assisting a new business venture. Through a few manageable steps in the process, Landslide Limousine needs to assess their productivity and possibly reallocate investments to ensure activities within the company are in line with the small business company’s strategy. Studies prove that establishing a schedule benefits the completion of the process. This process may outline the timeline and resources necessary for completing the operational analysis. Outline strategies and methods accordingly and adhere to them during the process. Collect information to provide key insights into actual performance in comparison with strategic planning and performance goals. Complete an analysis gap to identify and report performance, cost and benefits based on an analysis of the actual performance data. Demographic Analysis According to Bradley Stonefield, the demographic analysis that needs to be address is a specific population to describe the small business and its characteristics, such as income level, background checks, driving records, location and salaries. A demographic analysis is useful in a business plan, to describe the population where the business is located. Income level data is a good indicator of residents’ spending power. Income positively correlates with retail expenditures in many product categories. During market evaluation, retailers look at the median or average household income, and seek a minimum number of households within a certain income range prior to establishing a business or setting prices. Another common practice is to analyze the distribution of household incomes. Different businesses may avoid extremely high or low-income areas. Some specialty fashion stores target incomes above $100,000. Background checks often requested by employers for job candidates during e mployment screening, especially on candidates seeking a position that require high security or trust. Traditionally, background checks administered by a government agency for a nominal fee, but maybe administered by private companies. Background checks can be expensive depending on the information requested. Results of a background check typically include past employment verification, credit history, Driving history for a small business aspect and criminal history. Mr. Stonefield is interested in locating a limousine company within the Austin, TX area. A small business is unlikely to dominate any particular market in a city. However, strategic use of location-based marketing can make you a viral hit in your suburb or street and this may be all it takes to double the turnover in the limousine business. Location-based services can provide the company with information about how many people check in for a certain area or business, which has checked in most often and how many people have used an offer of this kind of service. This kind of information can be very useful in assessing the success of the company’s location-based marketing program. The average wage for a Limousine Driver is $12.85 per hour in the state of Texas in 2011. People in this job generally do not have more than 20 years’ experience. Pay for this job rises steadily for more experienced workers, but goes down significantly for the few employees with more than 20 years experience. Limo drivers have limited career advancement  opportunities. Some acquire supervisory or management positions, while others train new drivers or receive preferred shifts. Moving into a dispatching or managerial role is another choice for experienced limo drivers. Organizational Analysis Organizational Analysis for this company is a means of measuring how the small business will do and how to identify ways to improve the company in order to ensure success into the future of the company. A strategic way in preparing this aspect is to use the SWOT analysis. This stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. These factors make up the bulk of the way the study and be analyzed and can give a in great details a pretty good indication of how Landslide Limousine will do and how it could be expected to do move forward in the future in making profits. The results of the analysis will help Mr. Stonefield be able to make good decisions and improve any efficiencies while without making any major changes. Strengths within Landslide services are usually the starting point for this company. Internal/external factors should include a stable workforce, methods and simple strategies are a way to mainstream the total aspects of all local business within the area is which this is a key aspect. Weaknesses can come from all different locations and can be widespread. This may include aging facilities, possible inexperienced/unprofessional drivers, outdated equipment, purchasing of quality vehicles fleets, price/packages, and areas of specialties. Opportunities should include new market creations, consumer based locations, overhead, and debts. Now, threats could possibly take on another aspect within the business. These can range just from local communities services to government products/services to the rules and regulations. Individual Analysis Certain ideals manifest in behaviors of individual members and affect group dynamics. Task functions include behaviors such as identifying tasks, coordinating, clarifying and summarizing. Individual Analysis based off different levels and/or services provided by the limousine service help to decipher if business needs are met. This type of analysis can be based off a wide stream of studies in business. This specific analysis can have more disadvantages than advantages needed in order to find ways to being a  business. Learning how to work effectively in a group situation is the key to success in many professions in business. Learning key ways to get the business from crawl, walk, run phase is another way employees have the advantage of learning how the aspects of business work in the community. Environmental Analysis This analysis scan can help assist in understanding the broader context in which individuals are operating in. By investing time, identifying key trends and environmental factors to obtain information for small business within the regions in which we want to base our business and all the studies that are included. Some small businesses and organizations frequently choose to review the external factors in the process, but it is important to consider the internal environment factors. These may include looking at the organization’s internal capacities and resources, and projecting how to change in the future to meet the organization objectives. Another useful component to the analysis phase is to survey external customers in the local area and ensure all aspects of the locations are covered. Challenges observed and/or anticipated, or missed opportunities, and even basis such as how others described your individual work to get the process started may have a short-time or long-term effect. Environmental analysis uses a series of ranks and assessments in evaluating employee performance, customer satisfaction, and overhead coat are all similar factors during the first phase of the analysis. Training Methods Appropriate training is liable to have a positive or negative affect on important issues in business. How a company conducts, training is a critical decision that every business has to make consciously. All features involved in effective training should be considered, such as, time, cost, training environment, and training cost. The delivery of the training is pertinent. If the delivery of the information is confusing to employees, the training does not occur properly and is a waste of time, resources, and capital (Ongoing Training: A Method for Success, 2012). Various approaches to training are utilized and implemented. Types of Media Considering the impression Landslide Limousines anticipates on making, Atwood  and Allen Consulting recommends technology-based training. Technology-based learning may prove to be beneficial. Basic methods of learning through technology include interactive videos utilizing a computer in combination with a digital video (DVD). Web-based training programs or internet-streamed videos such as â€Å"YouTube† videos are increasing, popular tools among training methods. The aforementioned method is valuable in illustrating scenarios that the trainer would like to emphasize. These methods are conducive within a large group of people. Learning Principles When opting to use technology-based learning, companies must ensure accessibility for employees. Learning principles, considered laws of learning, are discovered, tested, and benefit practical situations (Naval education and Training, 2010). The trainer must possess the capability of applying the principles while instructing. Most importantly, the trainer needs to be clear on the objectives of the training, and relate it to the work environment. There are three types of learners: visual, hearing and hands-on. Atwood and Allen Consulting recommend that Landslide Limousine combine the training methods and perform more interactive learning experiences that will accommodate the three types of learners. Using what the military medicine has called for years â€Å"See one, do one, teach one† (Naval education and Training, 2010). The trainer will teach the skill so the employees can see it, then the employees will demonstrate their knowledge displaying their proficiency, finally the employee will teach a new employee. Those that teach, learn. Trainers will be inclined to become familiar with the material, recall it accurately, and apply it effectively. This method is cost effective in the sense that when there is a time one employee must carry out the tasks of another, therefore causing no interruptions in business. This method works best for companies that are just beginning. Training for learning skills or fact The required training conducted is for skill and fact. The training enhances knowledge of skills that enforce relevant facts, in reference to training. Effectiveness of Methods The effectiveness of the methods of instructions can be verified by how the employee perform their duties, by employee’s questionnaires and/or testing,  and by comments done by the trainers themselves (Naval Education and Training, 2010). The effectiveness of these methods displayed through the performance of the employees. Training Evaluation Strategies Evaluation on training is of utmost importance. Here is where a business learns of training that works versus training that is of no use to the organization. In order to evaluate specific training, addressing certain questions alleviate concerns of risk in that course of training. Potential questions are: Did the trainees learn a specific skill, knowledge or performance? Did change occur and was it related to the training? Are the changes positively reflecting in productivity and to achieving organization goals? Will these changes occur with a different set of trainees using the same training criteria? (Chapter 8, 2013) Typically, training is a trial and error system. What may work for one individual may not necessarily pertain to another type of learner. As mentioned previously, people learn in different manners. Some need visual aesthetics to increase their ability to comprehend the training. While others’ need a more tactile experience and participate in the training. This is not an entirely new concept and has developed over the last decade to include the use of technology to enhance learning. The same can be said for training and evaluation strategies. The idea behind training evaluation is to recognize the criteria of the training are met within the company. Using pretests to determine a suitable new hire reassures current employees that the individual grasps the goals and concepts of the business. An example of a pretest is as simple as an application, a resume or orientation. All of this information allows management to decipher an individual based on experiences. Once training is underway, management will monitor and observe the associates reactions and the trainer’s methods of approach. This segment is extremely important considering the trainer. If the trainer does not connect with the class or leads them astray and off topic, the training becomes worthless and consumes the organization’s time and money. The trainer’s obligation shall remain cost effective to the company and stay on task to complete the training in a time efficient manner. Aside from management monitoring and observing, feedback is equally important, and can  come from employees, supervisors, managers, and customers. Collecting feedback for an organization is conducted a number of ways. Suggestion boxes placed randomly around the business provide anonymous suggestions from individuals employed in the organization or from customers who believe change is necessary. Feedback is also collected verbally either in a group of employees or individual basis. Sending surveys to clients containing pertinent information to the limousine service allows them to feel connected to the business and builds trust. The implementation of the feedback is the most important aspect to changing the current operational standards of the business. Manager’s need to rise above the concept of â€Å"if it’s not broken, don’t fix it.† Business evolution is constant and technology increases daily allowing change to happen more frequently, and not because â€Å"it’s broken,† but because a new element has become known and can be a useful tool in training. References Email from Traci: Performance Management Plan. (2015). Retrieved from University of Phoenix: https://ecampus.phoenix.edu/secure/aapd/Materials/IP/curriculum/sb/HRM531/assignments/week5/intro.asp Naval education and Training. (2010). Personal Qualification Standards for Master Training Specialist. NAVEDTRA 43100-7C Ch. 1. Retrieved from Naval education and Training website Ongoing Training: A Method for Success. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.lctmag.com/operations/article/41017/ongoing-training-a-method-for-success http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes533041.htm http://education-portal.com/articles/Salary_and_Career_Info_for_a_Limo_Driver.html http://www.studymode.com/essays/Individual-Analysis-Of-Working-In-a-712116.html

Representations of Ageing in the Media

Representations of Ageing in the Media Ageing, Society and Policy Take two types of media and critically examine the dominant representations of later life, noting key points of similarity and difference. Age is an issue of mind over matter, if you dont mind, it doesnt matter (Laham, 2015: para. 19). This quote resonates well when discussing the mass media and its dominant representations of later life. Particularly, because The Mass Media have long been critiqued by researchers for often representing seniors in a negative light. The Mass Media tends to portray the old as unhealthy, ugly and badly dressed rather than showing positive portrayals as healthy, productive and attractive (Rozanova, 2010:214). The impact of the negative stereotyping can damage the self-concepts of the elderly and disrupt the socialisation of young people with respect to the elderly which contributes to ageism (Miller, Leyell Mazachek, 2004:315). The most dominant representations of ageing are repeated across the media over time and so are the values. Therefore, to identify which are most dominant we will critically examine the key similarities and differences of ageing within film and magazine advertisement s and to what extent these representations of ageing have shaped society. Next, I will be discussing how the media representations add pressure for seniors to age successfully by fighting the ageing process. Lastly, Ill be examining how the media represents the third and fourth age in films and adverts. (Kriebernegg Maierhofer, 2013:107) maintain that Social realities of age and ageing are not primarily based on biological facts but on social constructions of what it means to be and grow old. Positive ageing encourages those who are healthy and productive known as the young old who are actively ageing but isolates those who are ill and must deal with the realities of ageing. The negative concept of old age refers to images of them being dependent and frail (Kriebernegg Maierhofer, 2013). Through using the Cultivation theory, we can understand how content released by the mass media has the power to shape the minds of society and their opinions of the world regardless of the effects the negative representation of later life has on others (Vickers, 2007). Through defining the most dominant representations of ageing we can determine if age is an essential factor in establishing ones identity and how they are regarded by others (Hatch, 2005). Ageing has come to occupy such a central p osition within Postmodern culture because there Is more age about than ever before, more varied resources to shape its experiences. This suggests that the arrival of pop culture has shaped the experiences of how we view later life (Gilleard Higgs, 2000:10). The most dominant representations of old age fall into three classifications. Firstly Old age as a Human Decline whereby the old are stereotyped as always suffering from either physical or mental decline (Kriebernegg Maierhofer, 2013). This idea is further developed by identifying the old as having to rely on others and incapable of being in control of their own lives due to physical limitations. Additionally, they are subjected to exploitation by criminals, care homes and are viewed by others as a burden particularly by family members. In other words, this leads to the old being lonely and isolated by family and society. Examples of these representations can be found frequently in the media in the form of an ad or a character in a film (Rozanova, 2010). Age as a human decline is demonstrated by Lewis, Medvedev, Seponski (2011) via Fashion magazines which tend to be ageist and portray age negatively, especially when discussing physical limitations. For example, In Elle and Glamour magazine the focus of the advertisements is on youthfulness and anti-ageing methods mainly featuring younger models. This representation echoes a culture which favours youthfulness and competent individuals over those ageing naturally by using younger models and encouraging cosmetic surgery to delay the ageing process (ibid). Similarly, Being physically attractive counts much more in a womans life than in a mans, but beauty, identified, as it is for women, with youthfulness, does not stand up well to age (Sontag, 1972:31). In Film, a mans success is determined by power and authority, a womans is determined by looks, they are expected to adapt to societies requirements of appearing youthful to others to obtain particular roles on the big screen (Lauzen Dozi er, 2005). In this case, there are similarities within the representations of older women in Films and Ads as a human decline in regards to beauty. The second classification of old age is Old age as a New Beginning, this is viewed more positively and encourages active behaviour in later life. Old age is viewed as happy and satisfying. It comes in three forms, the old being independent and the director of their own lives and how fulfilling it becomes. Being able to adapt and keep up with societies changes mentally and physically whilst copying the behaviours of their children and grandchildren, and the association of old age with an eternal sexless love (Kriebernegg Maierhofer, 2013). This is a new way of ageing which is promoted as inspirational and positive, an active way of maintaining ones youth and ageing well (Ylà ¤nne, 2015). This representation of old age is prevalent in films with an older cast but can be difficult to identify in magazines which usually focus on cosmetics as a way of maintaining youth. Vogue magazine are aware of the changes in demographics and try to support the ageing process, particularly because the positive portrayal of old age is usually in ads which promote food and health and rarely in Fashion which society have become familiar with. Up until 2007 Vogue had never paid attention to the older demographic, until their ageless style issue was released which endorsed old age as a new beginning with their sell in lines Ageless style: the best pieces at any age How to grow fashionably. This attitude affirms societies aim to look younger and remove any signs of ageing (Twigg, 2010). Similarly, films which try to support old age as a new beginning the message occasionally gets lost. For example, in the movie RED (Retired, extremely dangerous), the focus is on a Bruce Willis and his team of ageing retired black ops operatives who are no longer living a fast-paced life. Although the messages support living an active lifestyle and having a zest for life where by retire ment shouldnt be the first choice, it suggests that to remain youthful you must imitate the behaviour of the young. The Postmodern Life Course supports this way of living where theres a shift from the dark days of ageing to a postmodern time where seniors are urged to dress like their children and grandchildren, to live a similar lifestyle and enjoy the benefits of pop culture (Estes, Biggs Phillipson, 2003). However, this is difficult for those who cant due to physical limitations, the focus shouldnt be on the inescapable horror of age but what ageing means for one may differ for another (Cox, 2012). Equally, The Intern another film with a mixed message about old age concentrates on Ben, a Retired executive who applies to a senior citizen intern program after retirement has become too boring for him and is eager to learn how to use technology. This displays old age as a consumer market whereby the old are independent, competitive and willing to learn (Dhar McKinney, 2015). Moreover, these qualities suggest that not all people distinguish themselves as old and dont expect anyone else to either, they enjoy being identified alongside the young and be integrated. This is seen in Films such as Meet the Fockers with Barbara Streisands who plays a sex therapist who teaches sex exercises to senior couples, this is a positive reinforcement of old age as a new beginning because it removes the dominant stereotype that senior partnerships are sexless (Gatling, 2013). Therefore, it can be said that we are living in a third age demonstrated by self-realization and consumption of the elderly ( Twigg, 2010). The Third age concept captures an economic and demographic shift describing the emergence of a cohort of relatively healthy and financially secure older people who were entering the age of personal achievement and fulfilment (Laslett, 1987:135). This concept has crawled into the advertising industry and suggests a period of liberation from old age whereby older people are used for the promotion of products and endorsements (Marshall Rahman, 2014). Old age is understood to be a consumer market with competitive seniors in the advertising industry. This representation of the third age is comparable with old age as a new beginning hence a dominant representation of old age. Publications such as: Yours and Saga magazine, endeavour to remove the negative stereotype of age and encourage a more active lifestyle via educational and inspirational advertisements endorsing a healthier and vigorous standard of living (Ylà ¤nne, 2015). An example which further illustrates this dominant represent ation of old age as a means of self-realisation is the movie: The Best Marigold Hotel. The story engages with a group of retired seniors who travel for a holiday to India and embark on a journey where later life isnt a disadvantage but a chance of fulfilment, financially or romantically. The film suppresses the fear of ageing for seniors and the youth and acts as a guide for enjoying old age (Cox, 2012). The concept of the Fourth Age unlike the Third age, focuses on the fear of ageing. The Fourth age embodies all the fears of old age: it brings fragility, helplessness and loss of autonomy. Especially because not being in control of your own ageing process can be daunting compared to the third age which promotes successful ageing as a personal choice. Instead the fourth age describes the disabled as them and questions if this illustrates the real process of ageing (Kafkovà ¡, 2016:23). This description of old the ageing process comes under the third classification of Old age as Superiority where the elderly are an inconvenience and later life is an ageing horror (Kriebernegg Maierhofer, 2013). However, advertisements promote health issues in a positive light using the third age concept Leisure-oriented exercise benefits older people, reducing both their morbidity and mortality (Gilleard Higgs, 2000:80). Rather than instilling fear in the minds of consumers, advertisers use seniors to sell health products and encourage older people to live an active lifestyle to age well and by use of autonomy they can postpone the fourth age (Ylà ¤nne, Williams Wadleigh, 2009). On the other hand, health in films are a dominant representation of old age as a human decline and horror. Old age is presented by considering the fourth age in relation to dementia Ageing and disability are commonly assumed to go hand in hand (Kriebernegg Maierhofer, 2013:57). This can be seen in the Simpsons film where Grandpa Simpson has trouble remembering the names of family members and confuses items such as the phone for an iron. These representations of Alzheimers and Dementia are usually inaccurate and fail to bring awareness to the issue. Although the representation may be comical, for children watching it leads them to identify the old as a nuisance and helpless (Alexander, 2015). In other words, the representation of health concerns as an ageing issue in a magazine ad is not as negative as it is a film and doesnt have the same influence on the youth as films do. The major premise of cultivation theory is that the more time individuals spend consuming media e.g. watching TV, the closer their views are to the world created by media. In other words, repeated and extensive exposure to media images influences viewers perceptions of social reality in the direction of the world constructed by media (Zhang, 2006:265). This suggests the stereotypical images the youth have of the elderly is as a result of the media. They are represented as dependent, grumpy and disabled which cause the young to behave in a disrespectful way and shapes the interactions they have with older people (Magoffin, 2007). Film more than advertisements plays a big part in constructing the views of the youth even if the representation doesnt accurately reflect society. The dominant representations include grumpy old characters who refuse to adjust to the changes of modern society and believe the youth are impolite. For instance, the film UP features Carl a cranky, hard of hearin g and frail old man who accidentally injures a construction worker over damage to his mailbox. Carl is deemed a public nuisance, and the court orders him to be admitted to a nursing home, to get him out of the way, exhibiting age as a human decline. This is supported by children who restrain the old within two categories: Evil powerful and Benign but helpless which is where Carl is placed (Gatling, 2013). This aligns the image which the youth maintain of the old and influences communication ensuing a self-fulfilling prophecy. The old internalise those stereotypes and interactions causing low self-esteem and a need to slow the ageing process (Kriebernegg Maierhofer, 2013). Magazine advertisements publicise anti-ageing representations of old age more so then Films and particularly for women Anti-ageing attempts to slow, stop or reverse, rejuvenate the ageing process (Ylà ¤nne, Williams Wadleigh, 2009:56). Magazines promote anti-ageing practices including: cosmetic surgery, anti-ageing creams and hair dyes as solutions to the ageing process through concealing indicators of old age which is deemed unattractive. This process is not limited to the elderly, it is also used by those in their 20s and 30s who begin the staying young process at a young age (Gilleard Higgs, 2000). Using the example of an Olay magazine ad featuring model Twiggy promoting a beauty product, it was reported by consumers as misleading and extremely airbrushed with a slogan captioned Because younger looking eyes never go out of fashion. Although a mature model was used the promotion is selling how to achieve younger looking skin which not only gives false promises but has a negativ e outcome for those who endeavour to age naturally (Sweney, 2009). Ultimately, we can see how anti-ageing practices shapes the ageing process for older people where they view ageing as a human decline. Disney films create negative stereotypes which impact how kids perceive older adults and fear the ageing process. Using toothless characters and portraying them as evil for example, the old woman who tempts snow white to eat the poisonous apple (Robinson et al 2007; Gatling 2013). Children internalise the most widespread representations of old age when young which are usually negative in films and hang on to them which creates a fear of ageing. Although the mass media continues to be a popular discourse which shapes the representations of old age in society advertising does not have the power to alter or shape social values, but merely reflects the values of its target audiences, the same can be said for films (Miller, Leyell Mazachek, 2004:316). The most dominant representations of ageing are: Old age as a Human Decline and Old Age as a New Beginning which are shaped by the stereotypes society created. Although the representations in magazine ads and films have relevant similarities and differences individually they contribute to the interactions amongst the old and young. Despite this, can we suggest there been a trend from less negative to more positive portrayals consistent with a shift toward more favourable attitudes toward the elderly and the increasing size of the elderly population? (Miller, Leyell Mazachek, 2004:316). This suggests representations relating to old age are limited. Then again, should we educate so ciety particularly children that opposing depictions of strength and agility on one hand, and frailty and stiffness on the other stimulate the viewer to ponder that we all live somewhere along the weak/strong continuum. Some older people may be weaker than younger people, some may not (Gatling, 2013:77). Bibliography Alexander, S. (2015). Were tired of these stereotypes of older people in the media [online]. Available from: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/goodlife/living/were-tired-of-these-stereotypes-of-older-people-in-the-media/ [Accessed 15 Jan. 2017] Cox, D. (2012). Why do films do such a bad job of portraying old people? [online]. Available from: https://www.theguardian.com/film/filmblog/2012/feb/28/films-bad-job-portraying-old-people [Accessed 15 Jan. 2017]. Dhar, A. and McKinney, S. (2015). 3 Ways The Intern Gets Older Workers Wrong [online]. Available from: http://www.nextavenue.org/3-ways-the-intern-gets-older-workers-wrong/ [Accessed 15 Jan. 2017]. Estes, CL. Biggs, S. Phillipson, C. (2003). Social theory, social policy and ageing. Open University Press: Maidenhead. Gatling, M. C. (2013) Representations of age and ageing in comedy film. PhD thesis, James Cook University Gilleard, C. and Higgs, P. (2000). Cultures Of Ageing: Self, Citizen And The Body, Harlow: Prentice Hall. Hatch, L.R. (2005). Gender and Ageism, Generations, 29 (3), p.19-24. Kafkovà ¡, M.P. (2016). The Real Old Age and the Transition between the Third and Fourth Age, Sociologia, 48 (6), p.622-640 Kriebernegg, U. and Maierhofer, R. (2013). The Ages Of Life. [Electronic Resource] : Living And Aging In Conflict?, Bielefeld : Transcript, Aston University Library Catalogue, EBSCOhost, viewed 14 January 2017 Laham, TS. M. (2015). This Is Really When Old Age Begins [online]. Available from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/martha-ts-laham-/when-old-age-begins_b_8099004.html [Accessed 14 Jan. 2017]. para. 19 Laslett, P. (1987). The Emergence of the Third Age, Ageing and Society, 7 (2) p.135. Lauzen, M.M. Dozier, D.M. (2005). Maintaining the double standard: Portrayals of age and gender in popular films, Sex Roles, 52, p.437-446. Lewis, C.D. Medvedev, K. and Seponski, M.D. (2011). Awakening to the desires of older women: Deconstructing ageism within fashion magazines, Journal of Aging Studies, 25 (2), p101-109. Magoffin, D. L. (2007). Stereotyped Seniors: The Portrayal of Older Characters in Teen Movies from 1980-2006, All Theses and Dissertations. 977. Marshall, B.L. Rahman, M. (2014). Celebrity, ageing and the construction of third age identities, International Journal of Cultural Studies ,18 (6), p. 577 593 Miller, D.W. Leyell, T.S. and Mazachek, J. (2004). Stereotypes of the elderly in U.S. television commercials from the 1950s to the 1990s, The International Journal of Aging and Human Development, 58 (4), p.315-340. Robinson, T. Callister, M. Magoffin, D. Moore, J. (2007). The portrayal of older characters in Disney animated films, Journal of Aging Studies; 21 (3) p.203-213 Rozanova, J. (2010). Discourse of successful aging in The Globe Mail: Insights from critical gerontology, Journal of Aging Studies, 24. p213-222. Sontag, S. (1972). The Double Standard of Aging. Saturday Review of the Society, 23, p.31. Sweney, M (2009). Twiggys Olay ad banned over airbrushing [online] https://www.theguardian.com/media/2009/dec/16/twiggys-olay-ad-banned-airbrushing [Accessed 15 Jan, 2017]. Twigg, J. (2010). How Does Vogue Negotiate Age?: Fashion, the Body, and the Older Woman, Fashion Theory, 14 (4), p.471-490. Vickers, K. (2007). Aging and the Media: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow, Californian Journal of Health Promotion, 5 (3), p.100-105. Ylà ¤nne, V. (2015). Representations of ageing in the media in: Twigg, Julia and Martin, Wendy Handbook of Cultural Gerontology London: Routledge, p.369-376. Ylà ¤nne, V. Williams, A. and Wadleigh, P. M. (2009). Ageing well? Older peoples health and well-being as portrayed in UK magazine advertisements, International Journal of Ageing and Later Life 4 (2), p.33-62. Zhang, Y.B. Harwood, J. Williams, A. Ylà ¤nne-McEwen, V. Wadleigh, P.M. Thimm, C (2006). The Portrayal of Older Adults in Advertising, Journal of Language and Social Psychology 25 (3), p.265

MUDs: An Adventure in Cyberspace :: Internet Computer Essays

"Hi, my name is Jamal. I'm a tall, gorgeous black man with a bod made for sin. Talk to me!" "Hi, I'm India, an exotic prostitute with a fondness for short, Norwegian men." "Harry here . . . I'm handsome and shy, and looking for love. . ." "My name is Sophie, and my job as a songwriter has led me to the great city of Miami." "Hello, I'm Lila. I am a 24-year old Jazz singer with a preference for foreign men. If you qualify, definitely say hi." The people you see above are very interesting individuals, all unique and distinctive. At first glance, there seems to be no common thread that connects them, except for the fact that they appear to be seeking some sort of interaction. No, these are not entries in a Personals Column or members of a support group for the love-lost. All of them do, however, share a very important characteristic. They are all facets of the same person; they are all descriptions of me. No, I am not schizophrenic or insane; I am simply one of the many that has found entertainment exploring a MUD-- an acronym that stands for Multiple User Domain or Multi User Dungeon. Before this assignment, I had no idea that MUD was something other than dirt mixed with water or that the world that existed on-line was so immense and so popular. In fact, MUDding has become one of the most sought after forms of interactive entertainment in the world, engaging tens of thousands of players (Leslie 28). The world of MUDding seems like a relatively new concept, but the truth is that MUDs have been around for years. Invented at the University of Essex in England in 1979, MUDs served as a computerized way to play Dungeons and Dragons, a popular and addictive role-playing game that mesmerized thousands (Rigdon R16). While the undisputed thrill of participating in such a game was the ability to reshape identity, other attracting factors were the relationships that a player could develop with fellow characters. Today, both adventure-type MUDs and social MUDs work in the much same way that Dungeons and Dragons did 20 years ago--players take on an identity and enter a fantasy world, only now they can communicate with people from around the globe. This type of role-playing sounds like simple fun, but the underlying issues and complex social situations that materialize are more than just child's play.

Sonnys Blues by James Baldwin Essay example -- Sonnys Blues James Ba

Sonny's Blues by James Baldwin A captivating tale of a relationship between two troubling brothers in Harlem, "Sonny's Blues" is told from the perception of Sonny's brother, whose name is never mentioned. Baldwin's choice of Sonny's brother as a narrator is what makes "Sonny's Blues" significant in terms of illustrating the relationship and emotional complications of Sonny and his brother. The significance of "Sonny's Blues" lies in the way Sonny's brother describes their relationship based on what he observes, hears, and feels, and how he struggles trying to understand Sonny through the course of the story. This is a story of how two African Americans brothers take their own path through life as they struggle to find meaning in their lives. Sonny's brother point of view is shared in this story as he feels responsible to keep his brother safe. The brother learns to listen throughout this story to better understand Sonny's life. This story is primarily about Sonny's brothers' life, how he struggled in his life and how he is now watching his younger brother Sonny go through the same situation. He worries about Sonny's life; that Sonny might not be able to escape the turmoil that life brings especially being a musician with no ties to family and job security. Sonny's brother sees Sonny trying to become a jazz musician, he watches and listens as Sonny goes through many difficulties in life. He doesn't want Sonny to be a jazz musician, because there is no future in this. At the end of the story, Sonny's brother attends the nightclub to watch... ...Blues" illustrated how life was growing up in an African American family during 1930 Ââ€" 1960's. Black Americans struggled to make their imprint on society. The life of the amazing blind musician Ray Charles comes to my mind as I struggle to understand how the African American culture learned to survive during this time. Sonny and Ray Charles had many of the same life experiences, in particular relying on drugs to forget their past and living in a society where the black man struggled to make a living. Both men used their music of rhythm and blues to gain respect from family and friends. In particular they learned to use music to survive in times of racism, segregation and poverty.

Flying Squirrels Essay examples -- Biology, DNA

Flying squirrels is in subfamily Petauristinae. They are arboreal and nocturnal. They do not actually fly, but glide between trees by a gliding membrane (patagium). This membrane connects the front legs to the back legs (Parr, 2003). In another word, a furry parachute-like membrane stretches from wrist to ankle. Flaps of skin connecting limbs to body provide a wing-like surface. All species have reddish eyeshine, brighter in the large species than the smaller ones which may be quite dim. The subfamily shows severe taxonomic complications, with little agreement among mammalian researchers (Parr, 2003). Giant flying squirrels (Petaurista sp.) have highest diversity in term of richness in population in Southeast Asia. This species is large in size, being on average 422 mm long. The Red Giant Flying Squirrel is believed to mate twice a year and the young are typically born in March or August in litters of 2 - 3 (Parr, 2003). The Indochinese ground squirrel (Menetes berdmorei) is a member of the family Sciuridae. The family has only 29 species of 14 genera in Thailand (Lekagul and McNeely, 1977, 1988; Par, 2003). The characteristics of the Indochinese ground squirrel are black mid-dorsal stripe, two or three black stripes on the sides, and reddish brown fur on the back (Lekagul and McNeely, 1977, 1988; Par, 2003). Identification is more difficult during the dry season, however, when they are much less brightly colored. They have been found throughout Southeast Asia, from the east of Myanmar to Vietnam. As a ground squirrel, it is rarely found on trees, but spends most of the time in the thick underwoods of the rainforests. (Walston and Duckworth, 2008). The sizes of squirrels are variable between species. There are three types of... ...th at least one restriction enzyme and sequencing the ends of the resulting fragments using an Illumina Genome Analyzer in order to sample the genomes of multiple individuals in a population (Baird et al., 2008). The major advantage of RAD is that it gives information for a very large number of loci across the genome, and for the same loci in each individual sampled. The current method for accelerating targeted sequencing from ancient and highly degraded DNA includes the linking of multiplex PCR directly with sample barcoding and high-throughput sequencing. The method creates the chance to generate many kilobases of overlapping sequence data from 31 cave bear (Ursus spelaeus) ancient specimens at the same time (Stiller et al., 2010). It seems likely that in the future high-throughput sequencing technologies will have many advantages for the study of ancient DNA.

Macbeth Character Analysis Essay

In this essay I will write about the character of Macbeth and what my first impressions are of him, such as his bravery, strength, determination and courage. I will also write about how he is introduced, his reaction to the encounter with the weird sisters, his attitude towards Banquo, Duncan and Malcolm. Also, his relationship with his wife, Lady Macbeth. My very first impression of Macbeth was that he was was brave as the captain said, â€Å"For brave Macbeth – well he deserves that name†¦Ã¢â‚¬ . Also, the captain implied that he is very strong and a great fighter, â€Å"†¦ With his brandished steel, which smoked with bloody execution, like valour’s minion carved out his passage, till he faced the slave†¦Ã¢â‚¬ . This means that he stands with his sword covered in blood which shows he has killed a lot of people and valour’s minion means bravery’s favourite. The captain also says how merciless Macbeth is as he kills the traitor Macdonwald, â€Å"†¦which never shook hands, nor bade farewell to him, till he unseamed him from the nave to the chops, and fixed his head upon our battlements†. This quote shows how merciless Macbeth is as it states that he ‘carved’ his way through the army, and how he killed Macdonwald even after bring tired and bruised without even speaking to him. He even paraded his head on the battlefield to show everybody what he had done. Our first impressions of Macbeth are that he is brave, merciless and a great fighter. The three witches soon appeared and told their predictions; â€Å"All hail Macbeth, hail to thee, Thane of Glamis!† â€Å"All hail Macbeth, hail to thee, Thane of Cawdor!† â€Å"All hail Macbeth, hail to thee, that shalt be King hereafter!†. After Macbeth heard the wierd sisters he was too shocked to speak as Banquo said, â€Å"Good sir, why do you start, and seem to fear things that do sound so fair†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He finally answered back by asking them to tell more and in more detail. He started to question the three witches and himself as he was confused; â€Å"†¦I know I am Thane of Glamis, but how of Cawdor? The thane of Cawdor lives†¦Ã¢â‚¬  . He was trying to figure out what this all meant and how these creatures got this information. He again tried to question them but the suddenly vanished into thin air, â€Å"The earth hath bubbles, as the water has, and these are of them.†. He asked Banquo if this was real or if they had eaten some kind of hallucinogens or drugs, â€Å"Were such things here as we do speak about? Or have we eaten on the insane root†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He then started thinking about being Thane of Cawdor and whether or not this could be true. The two messengers came, nearly straight after the predictions by the three witches, and told Macbeth that he was given the title Thane of Cawdor. Macbeth was in shock and Banquo said that evil was at work, Macbeth asked the messengers why he was the new Thane even though the old Thane still lived. He thanked the messengers and said to himself that more was to come as this is shown in the quote, â€Å"Glamis, and Thane of Cawdor. The greatest is behind.†. This means that the greatest prize is still to come and this is referring to him being King. His first thoughts of the three witches after they appeared and told their predictions were that they were some kind of supernatural beings and so Macbeth tried to find out what they meant, where they received this information and why they were telling him this. He was first thinking this was some kind of hoax but after the messengers came and said that the King had named him the Thane of Cawdor, he began to consider what it will mean if the third prediction is to come true. Banquo is Macbeth’s best friend and he trusts him with his life and vice versa. He respects Banquo and he uses his advice most of the time. They are partners in war and in friendship and do almost everything together. He likes Banquo but he sometimes has different thoughts than him as this quote states, â€Å"†¦But ’tis strange: And oftentimes, to win us to our harm, the instruments of darkness tell us truths†¦in deepest consequences.† This quote means that the recent occurrences are unnatural and the forces of evil encourage them to do things, which are misleading, and there could be some consequences later. Duncan is the King of Scotland and Macbeth had given him the most respect he has ever given anyone. Macbeth was loyal to the King and fought for him and the country of Scotland. Macbeth thinks that Duncan is a good King and uses his power to good strength and also the fact that he has a good judgement, this quote shows this, â€Å"Strong both against the deed; then†¦besides Duncan hath borne his faculties so meek, hath been so clear in his great office†¦Ã¢â‚¬  This means that Macbeth thinks King Duncan is a good king who is not corrupt. Macbeth does not like Malcolm even though he is related to him, Malcolm is the heir to the throne and that is a bit of a pain in the neck. Macbeth wants to be king but cannot as Malcolm is the heir so, as you would imagine he is an obstacle in Macbeth’s ambition and target, this quote shows this. â€Å"The Prince of Cumberland-that is a step†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Lady Macbeth is Macbeth’s wife and Macbeth loves her very much and so he sends her a letter telling her that he has become the Thane of Cawdor, â€Å"They met me in a day of success†¦they have more in them than mortal knowledge†¦came missives from the King, who hailed me ‘Thane of Cawdor’†¦ â€Å" Lady Macbeth is the kind of person that gets what she wants and I don’t think that Macbeth likes this that much. She persuades him to murder Duncan nearly straight after she recieves his letter. Macbeth likes Lady Macbeth but he doesn’t like the way she gets her way but he still goes with the flow, â€Å"Was the hope drunk wherein you dressed yourself†¦and live a coward in thine own esteem†¦each corporal agent to this terrible feat. Away, and mock the time with fairest show†¦ â€Å" Here, Lady Macbeth uses reverse psychology by accusing him of cowardice and a lack of love or her. Overall the first impressions we get of Macbeth are that he is brave and a good fighter and that he is loyal to his country and the King. His first impressions of the three witches were the same as anybody else, surprise and that the witches are some strange people or that they are seeing things. He likes Banquo and respects him and he is very loyal to Duncan who is like a father figure to him. He doesn’t like Malcolm that much as he is an obstacle but he is still related to him. His relationship with Lady Macbeth is very good but you get the impression that she is very much in control of their relationship.

Weak People in the Bible

Regard For Those Who Are Weaker In Society Written in Torah are lessons and stories about how God created Earth, animals, plants, day and night, the sun, and also how God created man to dominate over all living things. Within Torah is a story of Abram and his relationship with God. Abram or Abraham had a covenant with God. God promised to bless the nation and Abraham. Abraham had no rules or law to follow he simply had to have faith in God and believe in him. God said to Abraham â€Å"†¦ You shall be the ancestor of nations.No longer shall your name be Abram but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you the ancestor of nations. I will make you exceedingly fruitful; and I will make nations of you, and kings shall come from you. I will establish my covenant between me and you, and your offspring after you throughout their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you. And I will give to you, and to your offspring after you, all t he land of Canaan, for a perpetual holding; and I will be their God† (Genesis 17:4-8).The covenant between Abraham and God said that Abraham was blessed and so his descendants shall be blessed, so they were. Moses, one of Abraham’s descendants, was spoken to by God and he was told to go into Egypt and rescue the Israelites from slavery. Moses did what God had asked of him and rescued the Israelites; they were weak, poor and in bad shape. God had mercy on them and he heard their cries and helped. He made another covenant and this time it was a bit different. He promised to make the Israelite his treasured people if they would agree to follow and keep his commandments.This was good for the Israelites because they came from a place where times were hard and God saved them and made them his people. Torah instructs the Israelites to follow the laws given to them through the covenant between themselves and God. Morally the Israelites are to treat others as they would like to be treated. They were once slaves to the Egyptians and treated very poorly. The Israelites should have mercy on others less privileged because God had mercy on them. When Moses was leading the Israelites out of Egypt they were not completely grateful.They complained to Moses. The Israelites said â€Å"If only we had died by the land of Egypt, when we sat by the fleshpots and ate our fill of bread; for you have brought us out into this wilderness to kill this whole assembly with hunger† (Exodus 16:3). With the complaints and cries from the Israelites, God sent them bread to eat and gave them only one rule. They were not to take more than a day’s worth of bread at a time. Even though God gave the Israelites laws he still had mercy on them and helped them when they cried out.The laws were a test of faith and trueness between God and the Israelites. God helps those in need, when they are really in need of help. Since the Torah is written to the Israelites it should be read as a lesson and the lessons should be taken into consideration to the readers. There are many commandments that the Israelites are instructed to follow. A lot of them have to do with regard for those who are weaker in society. Just like God had mercy on the Israelites, the Israelites should have mercy on others because they once were the weaker persons in society.