Heathcliff And Catherine Earnshaw In Emily BronteS Wuthering Heights E

Heathcliff And Catherine Earnshaw In Emily Bronte'S Wuthering Heights Love is an amazing emotion. People spend much of their lives searching for true love. When true love is found, people will do everything possible to hold on to and cherish it for eternity. It is said that true love can only be found once in a lifetime that is filled with intense everlasting emotions. A classic example of this powerful emotion is displayed by the characters Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw in Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights. Wuthering Heights examines a passionate and overwhelming love between its central characters, Cathy and Heathcliff. Their love is profound and filled with passion unlike any other. Its intensity builds from their childhood until the untimely death of Catherine. The extent of this love is exemplified during Heathcliff and Catherine's interactions with each other, during Catherine's statements to Nelly, and during Catherine's death where Heathcliff and Catherine embrace for the last time. When Catherine and Heathcliff were young, they would ?run away to the moors in the morning and remain there all day?(44). They spent a lot of time together playing like children. It is in this time that they create their everlasting bond. Catherine and Heathcliff spend almost every waking hour together and inevitably fall in love. Whenever Catherine and Heathcliff talk about their love, their tone is high and wild. No words could possibly express the great passion they share, yet it becomes obvious in their ?interactions together?. At one point, Catherine stays at Thrushcross Grange for five weeks and comes back a different woman and her appearance seems more refined and polished. She has been influenced by the Lintons, particularly Edgar who she has developed an infatuation with. She has changed and ?seems? to look at Heathcliff in a different manner. Catherine says to him ?Why how very black and cross you look! and how-how funny and grim!?(52). Heathcliff can't believe his ears. He is so angry that he refuses to shake hands with her: ?I shall not stand to be laughed at, I shall not bear it?(52). Heathcliff wonders later if she misses him: ?Do you suppose she has nearly forgotten me? Every thought she spends on Linton, she spends a thousand on me?(149). The thought of Catherine loving another is unfathomable to Heathcliff, but he is convinced that she still loves him more. Here again, even when there is not an obvious display of love, it lies just below the surface of their interactions. Another side of the love shared between Catherine and Heathcliff is revealed in statements by Catherine to the servant Nelly Dean: ?Whatever souls are made of, his and mine are the same...Nelly I am Heathcliff?(182). Catherine loves Heathcliff so much that she feels that they share the same soul. Nothing can ever break this bond. Catherine herself then compares her love for Edgar and her love for Heathcliff: ?My love for Linton is like the foliage in the woods. Time will change it...My love for Heathcliff resembles the eternal rocks beneath-a source of little visible delight, but necessary?(82). It is as though she realizes the superficial love she has for Edgar and the eternal love she has for Heathcliff. Catherine knows she is about to marry the wrong man. What she does not realize is that this mistake will eventually bring about her demise. While Catherine layed on her deathbed, she is visited by Heathcliff. In this last interaction, they throw accusations of betrayal at each other with fiery intensity. In Catherine's delirium, she realizes her mistake of marrying Edgar, but knows now there is nothing she can do about it. She in on the verge of death, and deeply regrets betraying her heart: Why did you despise me? Why did you betray your own heart Cathy? I have not one word of comfort-you deserve this. You have killed yourself. Yes, you may kiss me and cry; and wring out my kisses and tears...you loved me-then what right had you to leave me? I have not broken you heart...and in breaking it, you have broken mine(161). Heathcliff is clearly angry at Catherine but he still loves her. He embraces her before he leaves, wishing that he could just hold her forever. After Catherine dies, Heathcliff becomes very distraught and feels that he cannot survive alone. He curses her spirit out of anger and betrayal: ?May she wake in torment...May you not rest as long as I am living...Oh God! It is unutterable! I cannot live without my life! I

immanuel kant in LD essays

immanuel kant in LD essays Born in Konigsberd in East Prussia on April 22, 1724, Immanuel Kant has been one of the most influential philosophers in the history of Western philosophy. His contributions to metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, and aesthetics have had a dynamic impact on almost every philosophical movement that took place in the post Kant era. He began the early stages of his life at school of philosophy at the University of Konigsberg, where he studied the philosophy of Wolff and the mathematics and physics of Newton. Having spent most of his life as a university professor, he did not receive fame and recognition till his late fifties. His critical philosophy is what he was best known for. His Critical philosophy is divided into three portions: Critique of Pure Reason, Critique of Practical Reason, and Critique of Judgment. For 15 years after he obtained his doctorate, he taught at University of Kongsberg, lecturing first on science and mathematics, but gradually expanding his studies in almost all forms of philosophy. Having a very unorthodox religious teaching, which were based on rationalism rather than revelation, in 1792 king Frederick William II, forbid him to teach or write on religious subjects. After the death of the King, not feeling obligating any longer, Kant published a summary of his religious views. At the age of 46, Kant read the writings of a Scottish philosopher David Hume. Hume criticized and greatly disliked all metaphysics. Not agreeing totally with the works of David Hume, Kant decided to write his own critiques. Kant in 1781 released Critique of Pure Reason, in which Kant attempts to prove, that although our knowledge is derived from experience, it is possible to have knowledge of objects in advance of experience. Meaning that rather than learning from mistakes, we should already know the problems and complications associated with the situation, so we do not make that mistake in the fist place. Kant saw that there...

Microeconimics Simester Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Microeconimics Simester Assignment - Essay Example The factors that commonly influence demand conditions (with other things held constant) are, changes in tastes and preferences, income of people influences the demand of normal and inferior goods, changes in the size of population, weather, changing expectations and prices of other related goods such as substitutes and complements. Changes in these factors will shift the demand curve. As the demand for bio-fuels increase, this will result in a higher level of production of bio-fuels. Bio-fuel usually use both corn and sugar as inputs where the yield of these crops is utilized in the production process (Vidal n.d.) As a result of an increase in demand of the bio-fuel, a substantial rise was reported in the demand of corn. Corn is now required as a source of food as well as an input for bio-fuel production. The image shows the increase in price as a result of the increase in demand of crops. The previous demand used to be D1 which was added with the demand of crops for bio-fuels and th is resulted in the new demand curve D1+D2. This graph also shows how an addition to the demand has resulted in the increase of prices of crops to PC*. If the increased demand is not addressed by added production, then the prices rise because the market forces come into play and determine the market prices (AmosWEB n.d.). The above graph shows that the supply curve does not shift and merely extended and as a result the prices have increased. ii) Supply refers to the quantity of a product that the producers are willing and ready to produce at a given price. The graph below shows supply function. The supply function is upward sloping. This is because the greater the price, the greater will be incentive to produce more and hence the supply will increase. Changes in supply curve can occur because of a number of reasons such as change in technology, the cost of producing other goods and services such as substitutes, taxes and subsidies, changes in input costs, number of producers in the m arket and weather. Change in these factors causes the supply curve to shift. In this case, since the product under consideration is corn which is an agricultural product, it is a difficult task to enter the industry of producing corn because there is often a limitation of land availability. The optimum solution seems to improve the agricultural and conversion technology. If there is an improvement in the seed quality, then it will result in a greater yield which will increase the supply. Also, there is often wastage in the conversion process but this wastage can be controlled if a new technique and technology is introduced. This will result in added supply available for consumption and thus the overall supply increases. As the supply increases in this case, the prices of the crops will go down. Here, the image on the right shows that the increase in demand has shifted the curve towards the right, even the supply curve is shifted to the right because of improvement in production tech niques. This increase in supply is greater than the increase in demand and has helped to keep the price down despite the increase in demand. In our case, the supply of the crop has increased as a result of an improvement in agricultural and conversion technology and this will result in keeping the prices lower. iii) The bio-fuels are the new addition in the oils industry throughout the world. The formulation of ethanol has addressed the growing concerns of

BAE Automated Systems Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

BAE Automated Systems - Research Paper Example In this scenario, if any of the aspects is compromised or limited, the remaining parts of the project will also be affected. This paper presented an analysis of the Denver Airport project which involved the implementation of the Baggage Handling System. This project was initiated to automate the Airport baggage handling. However, all the way through project lifecycle this project suffered a wide variety of issues and problems. This research is aimed at analyzing those issues and aspects. The basic purpose of this paper is to outline some of the major issues and aspects that influenced the successful completion of this project. In this scenario, this research covers basic problems (management failure/problems) and their causes and fixation policy regarding Denver Airport project of Baggage Handling System. In addition, this paper will attempt to explore some of the fundamental aspects of effective project handling and management. The thought of initiating and effectively managing projects is long-term an objective of any project. This paper presents a detailed analysis of Airport Baggage Handling System project. All the way through the lifecycle of this project, it suffered a number of problems which happened because of ineffective management and planning of such new technology-based projects. In fact, the project of Denver International Airport’s Baggage Handling System is believed to be one of the biggest examples of less effective project management that led this project to failure and losses. Without a doubt, it was a new technology-based project which demanded more high-tech technology implementation and management. In this scenario, there was a greater need for the new technology-based support with more accurate and high-level bagging processing capabilities. Hence, in such a huge and critical project there was a dire need for high-level planning and management of issues and other aspects.

Development Policies and Political Evolution of Jordan Essay

Development Policies and Political Evolution of Jordan - Essay Example He has the power to appoint or dismiss the judges, amend the constitution, wage wars, and control the armed forces. He appoints the council of ministers, led by the Prime Minister, which is entrusted with the responsibility of overlooking the affairs of the country concerning general policies. The Jordanian constitution offers three types of courts – civil, religious and special, and its administration comprises of a total of twelve governorates each of which is led by a governor, who in turn is appointed by the King. The governors of each governorate are responsible for supervising and managing all the government departments as well as developmental projects in their respective regions1. Jordan, a predominantly monarchist regime, has seen the tremendous transformation on the political front in the past decade. Its transition from monarchy towards a democracy has resulted in the establishment of a multi-party system, as well as framing of revolutionary laws and policies that aimed to ensure and safeguard political freedom. Jordan aims to establish itself as a model of a modern Islamic state with humanistic values. In pursuit of its ideals and a vision to create a model framework for the social, political and economic development of their country, the Ministry for Political Development was established in the year 2003. This organization put forward a formal definition that aptly described the country’s political ideologies. It is mentioned below: â€Å"Development is a modernization process that will develop the relationship between the State and society, which will foster public stability and social peace through developing the law regulating public affairs, stimulating public participation, restructuring the public concepts of organizational and institutional structures and transforming the concepts of adjustment loyalty, transparency, accountability and participation from the theoretical stage  into the application sphere."

Reviewing Recidivism In The Criminal Justice System Criminology Essay

Reviewing Recidivism In The Criminal Justice System Criminology Essay Recidivism, in the criminal justice context, is most simply defined as a relapse into criminal behavior (Merriam-Webster Online, 2010). Once a convicted criminal has served his or her time and is released from incarceration, in a perfect world, they would never return. One might assume that having lost all individual liberties, a person would do everything within their power to not ever be in that predicament again. However, against all logic, this is not always the case. When an ex-convict reoffends and is incarcerated again, he or she has then become a recidivism statistic. So the question is, Why does this happen? Does not the thought of untainted freedom appeal to these individuals? Secondly, does society have a role in ensuring these released prisoners have the skills necessary to progress forward as productive members of society; never to return to the prison system? Whose responsibility is it to ensure those who walk beyond the prison wall do not return? And third, with the nu mber of people in prisons and jails (in America) at an all time high, these are questions that beg to be answered. Since the burden of financing prisons falls upon the American tax-payers, it is of benefit to them to invest in efforts geared towards reducing recidivism. All of society has a large stake in keeping offenders out of prison, which in turn decreases the amount of new prisons which need to be built, staffed and funded. With that said, in order that the issue of recidivism be addressed, all involved parties must ultimately agree upon the best course of action. Many in the correctional field erroneously assume that what works to reduce re-offending rates for one individual may work for all. Thus, many programs in place today utilize a standard approach for the masses; recalling one instance in which that particular approach was successful. One side states the best approach to reducing recidivism is more discipline; harsher sentences and longer prison stays. Yet another faction may stand behind the various rehabilitation approaches which include: diversion programs, half-way house stays, treatment programs while incarcerated, work-release programs, substance abuse programs and 12-step programs to name a few. Furthermore, an additional barrier to any approach is the responsibility of correctional facilities to prove what works, via statistics and the like to enable such programs to be funded. So, what really works? Those in the criminal justice community (and scholars in general) make great claims as to what is most effective at reducing recidivism. Every political party, prison administrator, police officer or correctional officer has their own personal analysis on the matter. Nevertheless, as with any concern, before mapping out a solution the problem must first be properly identified. Unfortunately, recidivism is plagued with a number of unique problems which contribute tiny parts to the whole. One great contributor is the fact that many of the prisoners, before even becoming incarcerated, cannot read or write, have very little job skills, have anti-social behavior problems and may even be mentally unstable? With these issues comes the instigator of little to no treatment. Are the correctional institutions able to address these issues or are they simply ignoring them in the spirit of simple incapacitation? Although there is scientific evidence that rehabilitation really does work (even if on ly part of the time), many stake their claims on harsher punishment; retribution. Yes, there has been controversy regarding previous research based on conflicting definitions of recidivism and faulty statistics. Even so, exact definitions or not, the greatest harm to date is the application of a one size fits all approach. In this paper Ill review the various schools of thought and outline programs in use today. Secondly, Ill summarize the programs and approaches which seem to garner the attention of experts, via empirical evidence and scientific research, as possessing the greatest hope for reducing the rates of recidivism; even if only slightly. REHABILITATION Criminal justice policies were not always as punitive as they are today. During the 1950s and 1960s, most Americans held the optimistic view that offenders could be reformed and that it was the responsibility of the criminal justice system to do so (Pager, 2007). This mindset reflects societys tolerance and sympathy at the time. During this period the Federal Bureau of Prisons emphasized rehabilitation as a correctional tool for use in Federal prisons. This Medical Model, a term by which the rehabilitation movement was referred, placed offenders through treatment programs which included counseling, education and vocational training (UNICOR, 2010). Prisoners were taught vocational skills, attended educational courses, completed high-school course work, and in some instances received college degrees. Rehabilitation was a key part of the United States policy on incarceration and prisons in general (Benson, 2003). Another implicit motive for these rehabilitation efforts was the fact that a large majority of the prison population suffers from mental illness. This reality is no secret. Inmates, because of their risky lifestyles, poor access to health care, and substance abuse, are less healthy both physically and mentally (Petersilia, 2003). According to a Bureau of Justice Statistics Report, in 1997 an approximately 347,000 prisoners, both state and Federal, reported having a physical impairment or mental condition (Maruschak Beck, 2001). The severity of these illnesses can range from mild mental issues to severe illness such as schizophrenia. During the Medical Model era, and still today this issue lacks the full attention of correctional institutions and the criminal justice community. Nevertheless, treatment was offered for mental health issues during this time. Up until the mid-1970s offenders were often given mandatory therapy and drug treatment as part of their prison sentence. Many had substance abuse problems and were treated for such. Convicted criminals were seen as needing supervision, re-socialization, and support in acquiring the coping skills, behavioral therapy, and vocational skills which form the foundation for reentering society. At that time it was generally believed that counseling, education, and job training were central to criminal desistance and that active intervention could have lasting effects (Pager, 2007). As previously mentioned, many offenders enter prison as illiterates with very little marketable job skills, drug problems and mentally health issues. Thus, this approach seemed practical. Although necessary this rehabilitative approach would not last long enough. Unfortunately, when the get tough on crime initiatives rolled in the rehabilitation portion of punishment was rolled out. Former President Ronald Reagan took it upon himself to focus the nations attention toward the problems of drug use and distribution. These get tough on crime initiatives, a product of Reagans war on drugs, caused prison populations to explode almost instantaneously. Between 1980 and 1990, the annual number of drug offenders admitted to state prisons increased tenfold (Pager, 2007). With the inundation to the prison population it was technically impossible to effectively rehabilitate each and every prisoner. This was especially true with the increase in prisoner sentences being tied more specifically to drug offenses, which meant substance abuse treatment for all. Along with these new initiatives came a more corrective approach towards punishment which left little room for rehabilitation. Along with the prison explosion of the 1980s and 1990s came a decrease in financial backing for the departments of parole (Pager, 2007). This decrease, purportedly tied to the war on drugs, put a strain on parole officers role in the rehabilitation and reintegration process. Tasked with reintegrating offenders back into society, the departments of parole as a whole are an integral part of the reentry movement and effort to reduce recidivism. An offender is generally considered to be rehabilitated when he or she no longer represents a threat to members of the community and are therefore believed to be fit to live in that community (Gaines Miller, 2007). Parole officers are (or were) responsible for the post release portion of this rehabilitation effort; getting the ex-con back in touch with his or her community. After the prison explosion parole officers were now finding themselves with almost three times more the amount of caseloads then previously charged with. This reduction in ti me and increase in case loads meant less assistance and more correction and supervision. Yet another rehabilitative tool was being left behind. A great majority of the American public, ex-convicts included, have always had unfavorable opinions of the department of parole and probation officers. Now trust in the department was dwindling even further. WHAT WORKS Two (2) of the largest studies on recidivism were conducted by the Bureau of Justice Statistics in 1983 and again in 1994 (the fourth and fifth BJS study of offenders released from prison and their re-involvement in crime). The most obvious lesson learned from these studies was that from 1984 to the 1994 there was a 5% increase in recidivism for those prisoners released (Langan Levin, 2002). Thus, it would seem that the practices currently being utilized to address the concern of recidivism are, or have been, somewhat ineffective. Those released in 1994 were not only re-arrested in greater numbers than those released in 1983. But they were also re-arrested sooner after release and for graver offenses (Beck Shipley, 1989). The greatest chance for reoffending took place within the first year of release from prison (Langan Levin, 2002). As mentioned previously and as pointed out by both the BJS studies on recidivism, there are several contributing factors which come into play when co nsidering whether or not an individual will reoffend. Factor such as education level, prior arrests and/or previous incarcerations, age, gender, type of offense, amount of time served, and ethnicity. These characteristics, to name a few, are part of a reoffended equation. These characteristics can also be utilized to form a risk assessment, which may identify those who are at the greatest risk of reoffending. This insight again solidifies the notion that not each person can be addressed utilizing the same approach. Alongside research conducted by the Bureau of Justice Statistics stands a large body of study collectively known as the what works literature (Latessa Lowenkamp, What Works in Reducing Recidivism, 2006). The what works literature has, with the assistance of evidence-based research, further confirmed that what is good for the geese is not always good for the gander. As continuously stated, not all approaches work for every offender. In addition, even the most successful approaches are not successful every time (Hooley, 2010). Its unfortunate that some offenders simply cannot function outside of prison walls. There are those criminals who will ultimately remain criminals stuck in a cycle of reoffending. Part of the what works literature addresses this issue by addressing the risk and needs of each individual inmate or ex-convict. Dr. Edward J. Latessa and Dr. Christopher Lowenkamp, both Professors at the University of Cincinnati have dedicated much of their research to the study of recidivism. Drs. Latessa and Lowenkamp (2005) have a recurring theme that the components of effective correctional intervention, including offender reentry programs, have already been demonstrated and confirmed time and time again (p.72). Many academics (Petersilia 2003, Pager 2007, Hooley 2010) profess the fact that there are programs that have been scientifically proven more successful than others. According to Latessa and Lowenkamp (2005) the setback in recidivism stems from correctional institutions disregarding this large body of evidence in favor of quick fixes or the latest trends. According to Hooley (2010) and several authors of what works literature in addition to science based strategies and writings put out by the National Institute of Corrections, in order for a correctional system to be effective at reducing recidivism it must adhere to several core concepts. The most important core concept is a risk assessment; who to target (Latessa Lowenkamp, What Works in Reducing Recidivism, 2006). Included in this risk assessment are several characteristics identified in the Special Reports conducted by the BJS as well as others. These characteristics include, but are not limited to: age (the younger the prisoner when released, the higher the rate of recidivism), attitude (does the offender display anti-social attributes), criminal history (will he or she continue to hang around with other who cause trouble), motivation (will the offender seek and keep employment), and attitude (does the offender accept responsibility for their actions either good or bad). Once th ose at risk are identified, resources should only be expended on offenders with the highest probability of reoffending (Hooley, 2010). In the age of do more with less its imperative, both for taxpayers and the correctional system, to utilize funds and resources where they will most likely to have the biggest impact. It has also been proven that it is possible to do more harm than good if low risk offenders are paired and treated with high risk offenders. In Latessa and Lowenkamps 2005 article in the Ohio Judicial Conference, they speak of a second principle to be addressed; criminogenic needs. The most effective programs assess, address and meet the individuals criminogenic needs. These needs include who they hang out with, their attitudes, beliefs and values, their lack of problem solving, substance abuse issues, and employment status to name a few (Latessa Lowenkamp, What are Criminogenic Needs and Why are they important, 2005). They have the largest influence on what motivates the individual to reoffend. One such example is a recently released inmate who continues to associate with anti-social and criminal friends. Chances are they will be more likely to reoffend. Programs such as boot camps and other programs which address non-criminogenic needs are by themselves unsuccessful as they tend to not focus on crime-producing needs (Latessa Lowenkamp, What Works in Reducing Recidivism, 2006). Although self-esteem and discipline build ing programs can be helpful for a short period of time, those that fail to address the attributes which encourage criminal behavior will never be successful in the long term. While static criminogenic needs such as a prior criminal record and family criminality cant be change, dynamic criminogenic needs such as those listed above can be influenced to reduce the individuals chance of reentering the criminal justice system (Latessa Lowenkamp, What are Criminogenic Needs and Why are they important, 2005). The next concept is referred to as the treatment principle. This principle addresses the how to go about targeting offenders needs. Evidence-based programs that are not only behavioral in nature, but are also delivered by a well-trained staff have been proven to be successful (Hooley, 2010). Some offenders may have to be taught a whole new way of thinking. Cognitive behavioral therapy that focuses on current factors influencing behavior that are action oriented with role-playing involved have a tremendous influence on improving anti-social behavior. A four to one ratio of positive reinforcement over sanctions has been found to be one of the most effective forms of treatment (Hooley, 2010). Many inmates have had no positive influence in their life or have never received positive reinforcement paired with non-criminal activity. Thus, in the treatment principal social learning is reinforced, via psychotherapy that emphasizes the important role of thinking in how we feel and what we do ( National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists, 1996-2010). This encourages the individual to become less anti-social and motivated to do better. But above all, none of the above mentioned strategies are useful unless they can be delivered by a well-trained and dedicated staff. This applies to programs delivered both inside and outside of prison walls. In What Works in Reducing Recidivism, Latessa and Lowenkamp (2006) name this as the fifth core concept. All parties involved in the process of rehabilitating the offenders attitudes and behaviors must be on-board and on the same page. Those implicated must be trained, competent, consistent and sensitive to the offenders needs. This support is imperative. This requires on-going support as staying away from negative influences in the form of old friends and family may prove easier than staying away from drugs (Hooley, 2010). Dr. Lateesa cites recent studies which have demonstrated that even evidence-based programs can increase recidivism if not competently delivered (as cited by Washington Institute for Public Policy, 2004). THE REENTRY MOVEMENT There is a vast amount of anecdotal and empirical evidence pointing out the rise in prison populations. Furthermore, an abundance of reports signal an increased number of ex-convicts being released into the community. Hence, it only makes sense to focus more attention on pre-release programs and training. Much of the incentive surrounding the reentry movement have sprung from pressure on public policy makers to provide treatments and services that will smooth the integration process while reducing recidivism (Nunez-Neto, 2008). Approximately 650,000 people are released from prisons every year to return to communities that may or not welcome their return (U.S. Dept of Justice, 2010). With such a large number of annual releases, the most important question to be asked is whether or not those released are equipped to be productive members of society. Without the proper attention and equipment (both physically and mentally), they will not be prepared. It is with this information that a reentry movement of sorts has surfaced and gained great momentum during the past century. Correctional facilities are striving to make the transitioned from the punishment mindset to one of rehabilitation and preparation for prisoner reentry and reintegration. In the words of Joan Petersilia of the University of California at Irvine, prisoner reentry encompasses all activities and programming conducted to prepare ex-convicts to return safely to the community and to live as law abiding citizens (Petersilia, 2003). The correctional community at large is slowly coming to the realization that, without the tools required to function in what may be a whole new world, a recently released convict may have but one option; to resort to the criminal tendencies which proved useful prior to his or her incarceration. Part of the reentry progress has come with backing from the Federal government. On April 9, 2008 the Second Chance Act of 2007 was enacted. H.R. 1593 outlines the purposes of The Second Chance Act of 2007 as the following: To break the cycle of criminal recidivism, increase public safety, and help better address the growing population of criminal offenders who return to their communities and commit new crimes. To rebuild ties between offenders and their families and to encourage the development and support of programs that reduce recidivism. For example: substance abuse treatment, alternatives to incarceration, and comprehensive reentry services. To protect society and promote law-abiding conduct by providing necessary services to offenders. To assist offenders reentering the community with transitional services for a sufficient amount of time after incarceration. To provide offenders in prisons and jails with educational, literacy, vocational, and job placement services to facilitate re-entry into the community. (The Second Chance Act, 2008) This original Second Chance Act of 2007 was a way for Congress to authorize a number of new programs and expanded the current offender reentry grant program at the Department of Justice (Nunez-Neto, 2008). It also assists the Federal Bureau of Prisons with its offender reentry programs in modifying components which prove most successful for federal ex-offenders. And it establishes a prisoner reentry program at the Bureau of Prisons and bestows the agency with new authorities (Nunez-Neto, 2008). This Act, and other similar programs at the state and local levels, is instrumental in giving ex-offenders the boost they need to be more victorious in their quest to make it on the outside. REINTEGRATION Three phases are often associated with offender reentry programs. First there are those programs that take place during incarceration, which aim to prepare convicts for their release. Secondly there are those programs that take place during the convicts release period, which seeks to connect them with the various services they might require once released. And lastly, during the final phase, there are the long-term programs that support the offenders permanent reintegrate into their community and society. This final phase attempts to provide the support and supervision ex-cons require most (Nunez-Neto, 2008). It is also the most crucial phase as what happens during the months following an ex-cons release often determines if and how quickly they will or will not re-offend. As stated previously, from the late 1950s up until the mid-1970s offenders were often given mandatory therapy, drug treatment, behavioral therapy and coping skills during their incarceration period. Rehabilitation efforts were at the forefront of correctional reform. The pattern during this era emphasized rehabilitation and reintegration. Since the early 1980s, views towards these forms of traditional treatment efforts have begun to deteriorate (Kadela Seiter, 2003). With changes in ruling political parties and differing prison administrations also comes change in corrective tactics. Fortunately, the pendulum is returning towards rehabilitation and for the past century rehabilitation has been viewed as not only the most humane goal of punishment, but also as a cost-effective (and possibly crime-reducing) alternative to punishment (Gaines Miller, 2007). Nevertheless, in order to alter the in prison experience prison officials have to accept that prisoner reintegration is part of their core responsibilities (Petersilia, 2003). Correctional staff and prison administration must make extensive efforts to ensure the prisoners are prepared for reentry. This includes not only a return to providing education and treatment, but also promoting and environment that encourages positive relationships, improving life skills and conflict management as opposed to violence and domination (Petersilia, 2003). While incarcerated each day of an inmates life is planned and structured. The inmate is required to make very few decisions on his or her own behalf. Allowing an inmate opportunity to make decisions will reduce the trauma of having to deal with lifes decisions on the outside. Studies show that the most successful programs in the reentry movement are those which begin during the actual incarceration period. During the months, and possibly years, leading to release is when programs which attempt to connect inmates with services theyll require upon release are most important. Again, correctional staff truly engaged in the process must foster collaborations and develop partnerships with the community. These services can include employers willing to participate in work-release programs, family members who participate with the inmate in counseling services, and community services geared toward assistance with housing and transportation to name a few. The list of programs and assistance should be modified to meet the individual needs of each inmate. In the words of Joan Petersilia (2003), Just as welfare reform forced welfare agencies to shift from a dependency model to a model of transition to independence, so too a reentry perspective would force correctional agencies to take practical steps to move prisoners toward independence (p. 174). Even upon release from prison, an ex-convict is labeled by society. What seems to be a great instigator to the crisis of recidivism is the fact that upon being released from prison many a ex-con feel they are still doing time (Pager, 2007). Felons face numerous hurdles in todays world. Many (especially those with drug convictions) are barred from public assistance, which may include housing, food stamps, or, in the case of women, WIC (Women, Infant and Child assistance). Convicted felons cannot vote and in some states they are further disqualified from obtaining a drivers license (Samuels Mukamal, 2004). This is more grounds with which to facilitate the rehabilitation and return of the parole system. Without the Department of Paroles (due to abolishment in some states and determinate-sentencing releases in others) many states have form their own form of mandatory supervision. This supervision is still less individualized and based on risk rather than need, setting supervision levels based primarily on offenders history of criminal behavior (Kadela Seiter, 2003). Thus, even if an inmate has participated in rehabilitation programs while incarcerated and was assisted with reentry by both the prison personnel in conjunction with a well-trained staff, that inmate must still be able to successfully navigate the outside world. EMPLOYMENT Being able to find a job is one of the easiest ways for an ex-convict to get back on his or her feet. With employment comes the ability to pay rent, purchase food and clothing, a boost in self-esteem and, most importantly, the choice of not having to resort to illegal means. In addition, the ex-convict may be returning to a family for whom he or she must now provide. A job for an ex-con in this situation means an already stressful situation becomes less traumatic. For both male and female ex-cons, being able to find a job after being released from prison can only be a boost to their confidence and sense of worth. Research has empirically established a positive link between job stability and reduced criminal offending (Petersilia, 2003). However, for most the odds are against them. To add insult to injury, nearly 80 percent of parole boards nationwide list some form of gainful employment as a standard condition of parole (Pager, 2007). Back in the 1960s and 1970s Wisconsin, New York and Hawaii passed laws forbidding discriminating against ex-convicts based on their criminal record (Pager, 2007). Discrimination of this sort could only be done so if the nature of the crime was directly related to the specific responsibilities of the job (Pager, 2007). Of great note is the fact that only three (3) states have such laws preventing employment discrimination against ex-convicts. The view of the remaining states is indicative of societys judgment as a whole. The majority scrutinizes ex-convicts as untrustworthy, uneducated and unable to be employed for anything but manual labor. Many equate all felons to murderers and rapists. Unless more states pass similar laws, which hold the status of a protected category, similar to protections provided for minorities under Title VII of the Civil Rights Acts, the most important factor in successful reintegration will also be the hardest; finding a job. When applying for any job some of the questions an applicant must answer are those regarding previous criminal history. And in this age of technology many employers also have the option of conducting background check. Combinations of these two facts do not bode well for those with a criminal record. On a positive note, Petersilia (2003) reported that a recent survey revealed employers are becoming more receptive to the idea of hiring an ex-convict if a liaison-a service provider, counseling program or community center-is available to mentor and to help avert any problems (as cited by Wirthlin Worldwide, 2000)(p. 196). This is yet another testimony to the importance of an ex-con having an advocate on the outside. Whether it be a parole officer, a community-based program that has chosen to champion the felons fight, or family members intent on providing for their loved one; assistance plays a pivotal role in the success or failure of the ex-cons struggle. PAROLE The same get tough on crime policies that nearly abolished the rehabilitation mind set toward incarcerated prisoners were also responsible for inadvertently (or purposely depending on who is asked) diminishing the functions of the parole board. The stated role of parole is supposed to be to oversee the process of reentry and to assist the ex-convict in his path towards a crime-free life (Pager, 2007). However, during the 1960s and 1970s the job of the parole board was not only essential, but also meaningful and multi-faceted. During the years when the majority of the prison population was serving indeterminate sentences, the parole board was largely responsible for determining which prisoners would be allowed early release, via parole. Part of that decision process included requiring extremely dangerous and high risk inmates to serve the majority of their sentence (Kadela Seiter, 2003). They also made it their job to ensure inmates had a plan as to what they were going to do followi ng release from prison. Parole also served as an incentive for inmates to behave. Part of indeterminate sentencing included good time, which removed days and/or months from an inmates sentence for good behavior. This encouraged cooperation amongst prisoners who were highly aware that bad behavior could affect their chance of gaining parole. After the Sentencing Reform Act of 1984, the length of time served by federal convicts for their crimes rose significantly. Sentencing reform statutes and truth-in-sentencing laws had the same effect at the state level (Gaines Miller, 2007). These legislative enactments were attempts to ensure convicts served the majority of their actual sentence; determinate sentencing. Secondly, change came on the heels of crimes committed by inmates who had gained parole and reflected societys belief that those being incarcerated were more violent that before. The down side of determinate sentencing, where most prisoners serve approximately 85% of their sentence, was the abolishment of parole by the federal government and between 14-16 states (Gaines Miller, 2007). In When Prisoners Come Home, Joan Petersilia (2003) presents twelve recommendations on how to reform parole and reentry practices (p. 171). Petersilia (2003) presents reinstituting discretionary release as an incentive for inmates to try to rehabilitate themselves while incarcerated (p. 188). Although inmates are to serve the majority of their sentence, these terms are generally shorter under determinate sentencing. Therefore, they have no motivation to earn good time or show effort toward rehabilitations since their sentences are shorter. And without discretionary parole the board no longer has the power or ability to deny release when it deems necessary. A case in point is Richard Allen Davis whose account is described by Petersilia (2003). Under indeterminate sentencing Davis was denied parole six times. With the Sentencing Reform Act, the state of California (in which Davis was imprisoned) chose to abolish discretionary parole. Thus, in 1993 Davis was mandatorily released due to time served. Less than four months later he kidnapped and brutally murdered Polly Klass (Petersilia, 2003). Ironically, this incident also fueled support for Californias passage of th

My Teaching Philosophy Essay -- Education Teaching Essays

My Teaching Philosophy I think my teaching philosophy is best defined as a combination of progressivism and social reconstructionism. David Sadker, author of "Teachers Schools and Society", defines the progressive educator as someone who, "(†¦) facilitates learning by helping students formulate meaningful questions and devise strategies to answer those questions", while social reconstructionism emphasizes cooperation, less conflict, and a better quality of life. These two teaching philosophies in combination seem to both fit my view on how learning should be facilitated and how it should be based. Progressive teachers tend to, like myself, look for inventive, new, and creative ways to see a problem. In putting students into groups they find there are many possible solutions to problems that they would not likely figure out on their own. I also advocate the progressive approach because I think it promotes children to think for themselves, in that if everyone is not researching the same idea or solution they are less likely to depend on someone else to supply the answer, and mo...

Clearly Comics Questions

Clearly Comics Questions Answer the following questions in full sentences. 1. What, can you infer (guess), is the season? How do you know? If I would have to guess, I would say that the season is summer because of the fact that one of them is wearing shorts and a tank top, and the other one is wearing a t shirt. Also they are both outside playing basketball, it seems. 2. How does the boy in the baseball hat react to what the other boy has said about his family? How can you tell?The boy in the basketball hat thinks that the boy is strange because he lives with both his parents, which now a days many families are broken up, with both parents living in different places. You can tell this because of the fact that he just walks away after hearing that the other boy lives in an unbroken home. 3. How can you tell the difference between what is said and what is thought? You can tell this because the words that are said appear as text bubbles but the single thought the boy in the basketball h at thinks is called a thought bubble. . How does the boy who has been left behind feel at the end? How do you know? You can say that he feels lest out about the fact that he is the 1% in that group of friends that has a stable home and his friends push him away for that because they are jealous, this could make the boy feel alone. 5. What can you infer is the reason that the boy with the baseball hat is so surprised that the other boy lives with both parents? Socratic Seminar QuestionsMaybe because the people around the boy with the stable home all have broken families that don’t live together and for the boy with the basketball hat thinks that findings some one that lives with both his parents is something weird to see now a days. 6. Nowadays there are many different types of families. Using your personal experiences and the ideas contained within the comic, write a paragraph about the reasons why families are changing.Now a days, families are changing specially because many parents aren’t ready to have the responsibility of having a child in their life, so at the end of the day, the couple fight between each other because of all the pressure involved in having a child to raise with, for example, low income or not enough maturity in behave of one or both parents. Before two people decide on having a child they should first decide if the relationship is strong enough to hold the weight of the responsibility of having to take care of another life.

What Is Entropy and How to Calculate It

What Is Entropy and How to Calculate It Entropy is defined  as  the quantitative measure of disorder or randomness in a system. The concept comes out of thermodynamics, which deals with the transfer of heat energy within a system. Instead of talking about some form of absolute entropy, physicists generally discuss the change in entropy that takes place in a specific thermodynamic process. Key Takeaways: Calculating Entropy Entropy is a measure of probability and the molecular disorder of a macroscopic system.If each configuration is equally probable, then the entropy is the natural logarithm of the number of configurations, multiplied by Boltzmanns constant: S kB  ln WFor entropy to decrease, you must transfer energy from somewhere outside the system. How to Calculate Entropy In an isothermal process, the change in entropy (delta-S) is the change in heat (Q) divided by the absolute temperature (T): delta-S  Ã‚  Q/T In any reversible thermodynamic process, it can be represented in calculus as the integral from a processs initial state to its  final state of dQ/T. In a more general sense, entropy is a measure of probability and the molecular disorder of a macroscopic system. In a system that can be described by variables, those variables may assume a certain number of configurations. If each configuration is equally probable, then the entropy is the natural logarithm of the number of configurations, multiplied by Boltzmanns constant: S kB  ln W where S is entropy, kB is Boltzmanns constant, ln is the natural logarithm, and W represents the number of possible states. Boltzmanns constant is  equal to 1.38065 Ãâ€" 10−23  J/K. Units of Entropy Entropy is considered to be an extensive property of matter that is  expressed in terms of energy divided by temperature. The SI units of entropy are J/K (joules/degrees Kelvin). Entropy and the Second Law of Thermodynamics One way of stating the second law of thermodynamics is as follows: in any  closed system, the entropy of the system will either remain constant or increase. You can view this as follows: adding heat to a system causes the molecules and atoms to speed up. It may be possible (though tricky) to reverse the process in a closed system without drawing any energy from or releasing energy somewhere else to reach the initial state. You can never get the entire system less energetic than when it started. The energy doesnt have any place to go. For irreversible processes, the combined entropy of the system and its environment always increases. Misconceptions About Entropy This view of the second law of thermodynamics is very popular, and it has been misused. Some argue that the second law of thermodynamics means that a system can never become more orderly. This is untrue. It just means that to become more orderly (for entropy to decrease), you must transfer energy from somewhere outside the system, such as when a pregnant woman draws energy from food to cause the fertilized egg to form into a baby. This is completely in line with the second laws provisions. Entropy is also known as disorder, chaos, and randomness, though all three synonyms are imprecise. Absolute Entropy A related term is absolute entropy, which is denoted by S rather than ΔS. Absolute entropy is defined according to the third law of thermodynamics. Here a constant is applied that makes it so that the entropy at absolute zero is defined to be zero.

Sdlc for Food Ordering System Essay Example

Sdlc for Food Ordering System Essay Example Sdlc for Food Ordering System Paper Sdlc for Food Ordering System Paper Introduction Generally, as it was mentioned in our first assignment, we supposed to choose any organization and try to develop an accurate system for it. We chose â€Å"Taktaz Restaurant† which serves Iranian traditional foods as our target and decided to develop an â€Å"online food ordering system† for it. We use Structured Analysis Method, which is time-tested and easy to understand method, as our system developing technique. Structured Analysis uses a series of phases, called the system development life cycle (SDLC), to plan, analyze, design, implement, and support an information system. In the first assignment we asked to concentrate on the first two phases of SDLC, planning and analyzing. In this assignment we are going to do last three phases, which are design, implement and support. The most important parts of these three phases that we are supposed to do in this assignment are as following: a. Output and user interface design b. Data design – ER Diagram c. System architecture d. System implementation (system prototype) – specify the hardware, software and platform used. e. System support maintenance Output Design Types of output In the system design phase, we will create the actual forms, reports, documents and other types of output. During this process we must consider the format and how it will be delivered, stored and retrieved. 1. Internet-Base Information Delivery Output In our information system we used internet-base information delivery as the output type. To support our online food ordering system, we have provided user-friendly screen interfaces that display output and accept input from customers. Customers visiting the site can check available food items and their prices in our menu, then can register for online ordering. 2. Screen Report Output Our information system also provides daily reports for Taktaz manager. To be useful, a report must include the information that a user need. Our system provides daily detailed reports in two categories: i. Total amount of daily orders ii. Total number of daily orders grouped by different customers’ name The examples of our system detailed report are shown in following. Total amount of daily orders Total number of daily orders grouped by different customers’ name As you can see, our system detailed report provides total for numeric fields. It also adds tax percentage to total selling amount for giving better estimation. The report also have auto incremental control field to controls output. User Interface Design Although output design involves a separate set of physical design issues, it is a part of the user interface (UI). User interface describes how users interact with a computer system and consists of all the hardware, software, screens, menus, functions, output and features that affect two-way communications between the user and the computer. Our customers through the website will work with a varied mix of input, output and, indirectly, date queries as they perform ordering process. Because all those tasks require interaction with the computer system, the user interface is a vital element in the systems design phase. It is important to design a user interface that is easy to use, attractive and efficient. To achieve these goals we have used following rules: 1. Focusing on basic objectives According to this rule, we tried to create a simple design that is easy to learn and understand. We aimed to design a logical and attractive layout as well. 2. Building an interface that is easy to learn and use. Based on this rule, we only used images that users can understand easily, to dentify icons. We also made it easy to return to any level in our menu structure system. 3. Minimizing input data problems We provided data validation checks and event-driven message and reminders as you can see in below sample from our system screen shot. 4. Providing feedback to users According to this rule, we made all of our feedback messages specific, understandable and professional. We a lso displayed messages on top of the screen and follow consistency every time. 5. Designing an attractive layout To satisfy this rule we tried to fulfill following guidelines in layouts of our system. Use appropriate colors to highlight different areas of the screen. Use hyperlink that allows user to jump to related topics. Group related objects and information by using similarity and proximity principles of Gestalt Theory. When the user enters data that completely files the field, don’t move automatically to the next field. We asked users to confirm the entries by pressing ok icon and tab key at the end of every fill-in field. User Interface Controls We include many control features, such as: menu bar or command button text box drop-down list box Date design Basic understanding of data design concepts includes data structure and the characteristics of file processing and database system which including web-based database design, will help the system analyst to come out with good and fulfilled information system. A data structure is a framework for organizing and storing data in an information system. Typically it contains files or tables that are linked in various ways. These files or table is data all about people, places, things or events that interact with the information system. A file processing system or more known as a file-oriented system, stores and manages data in one or more separate files. While, a database system consists of linked tables that form one overall data structure which offers great flexibility and efficiency in processing data. Database Management System (DBMS) is a collection of tools, features and interfaces that enable users to add, update, manage access and analyze the contents of a set of data. Data manipulation language is one of DBMS component which controls database operations, including storing, retrieving, updating and deleting data. Moreover, the complete definition of a database together with descriptions of all fields, tables and relationship, is called a schema. A subschema is a view of the database used by one or more systems or users and typically classifies only those portions of the database that a particular system or user needs or is allowed to access. Data dictionary ‘empprofile’ Table This table supposed to store information about the staff of Taktaz. If the value for â€Å"active† column of this table become ‘a’, then the proposed staff can log in as an administrator. ‘foodmnu’ Table This table stores data of available foods in the food menu. ‘order’ Table This table contains data of the ordered items. ‘userprofile’ Table This table stores information of registered customers. Entity Relationship Diagram (ERD) An entity-relationship (ER) diagram is a specialized graphic that illustrates the interrelationships between entities in a database. To design a system it is necessary to uses these models during the requirements analysis to describe information needs or the type of information that is to be stored in a database The entities for our system would be customers, order, bill, inventory and kitchen. The relations the attributes are shown in the following ERD diagram. Use Case Diagram Use case diagram is a type of behavioral diagram defined by and created from a Use-case analysis. Its purpose is to present a graphical overview of the functionality provided by a system in terms of actors, their goals (represented as use cases), and any dependencies between those use cases. The users of our system are customers, manager, kitchen staffs IT supporters. According to our systems point of view we can implement a use case diagram as given below. System Architecture System architecture is the conceptual model that defines the structure, behavior, and more views of a system. The system architecture includes seven issues which are as follow: 1. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) 2. Initial and total cost of ownership (TCO) 3. Scalability 4. Web Integration 5. Legacy system interface requirements 6. Processing options 7. Security issues The Taktaz Restaurant had no online reservation or ordering system for customers, so to have such a system, we are required to design completely a new online system (or a website). The first step was to analyze the system which the restaurant was working for. Everything in Taktaz, buying the ingredients , preparation ,ordering and delivery process, was done manually. We needed to have the owner’s idea about the old system and the expectation of the new system. By knowing a clear idea of the future system, we started to design an online food ordering system that fulfilled the restaurant requirement and expectations. Developing a new system has its own cost and we, as designer should have deal with it. The desire system and design must be cost-effective to the owner and also to us to design, operate and perform the system. Also the maintenance cost should be noticed in the designing stage. The new system should be flexible enough so that the users (restaurant’s owner and staff) can easily work with it and if needed, make some changes in it, expand, change or even downsize to meet the changing needs of the business. We tried to consider all of the above mentioned issues in the designing the system. However, some of them needed and took much more time than the others. For instance, to perform scalability or the last mentioned issue, we must interview with the owner and staff of the restaurant to get their idea and expectation of the oncoming system and then, we could interpolate those ideas to the system. As a designer, we should consider many more issues in the developing of the system. First of all, we should notice how user friendly the website will be. In a project, especially in online ordering, it is extremely important that how user deal with the website, whether the user can use and access the different section of the website in the first attempts or not. It was one of our main concerns. The administrator section also was one of our concerns. This section, which is the management section, must be designed in a way that the manager (or website controller) can easily work and modify the system. The website should be as simple as possible so that the first time users can easily understand how to work with it. Also it must be as easy to use as possible for administrator to manage the ordering website. We should design a system with a minimum number of errors. To achieve it, we should first accurately analyze the requirements and expectations of the restaurant’s owner and after gathering all different information, and then we start to design a website. Designing of the website needed to be looked from two perspectives: as administrator and as customer. Obviously a website with many errors is not a comfortable website for neither of both users. From the password protection to billing the order, security threats and defenses were a major concern to us. As analysts and designers, we should consider and determine how the business (restaurant) will deal with the security threats. Users (usually customers), they put their personal information and details in the system. So they must do it trustfully and have no doubt about the security of the system. Our System Architecture Diagram is coming in below. System Architecture Diagram System Implementation Prototyping produces an early, rapidly constructed working version of the proposed information system. Prototyping, which involves a repetitive sequence of analysis, design, modeling and testing is a common technique that we used to design our system. Our system is being run on windows as its Platform. In addition, since it is based on the internet connections, the Network Card must be installed and used. A KEY must be defined and generated for security purposes and boot strap to prevent entering any unauthorized parties and any viruses and worms. We used PHP and our IDE is Dreamviwer. For our database we use MySQL. System Support Maintenance System support maintenance is the modification of the system. We have to correct faults, improve system’s performance and adapt the system to environment and requirements changes. The objective of our maintenance is to keep our system always running at an acceptable level. Corrective maintenance diagnoses and corrects errors operational levels. In this type of maintenance we will try to correct Design errors, Coding errors and Logic errors. Applying the Corrective maintenance can be helpful to avoid probable bugs and to fix logic errors. . In our project, which is Online Food Ordering System, the first step of support maintenance is to ensure that the issues related to programming and coding are correctly run. Debugging and troubleshooting can be the second step. The coding is the most important part to check especially when you are dealing with financial issues related to ordering. Therefore, we must be sure about the correctness of all functions and modules in our coding and proper connection with database to store and retrieve data. In addition to the software hard ware must also be checked regularly. Adaptive maintenance adds enhancements to an operational system and makes the system easier to use. Adaptive maintenance entails changes related to our applications operating environment. These modifications cam consist of Incorporating new operating systems, Hardware configuration changes, Regulations Localizations alterations and Changes in data format. As our system goes on we need to enhance our system with new features, capability and functions in response to new technology. Adaptive maintenance in our system is related to update new features. For example, adding new meals or recipes to the current menu, can ensure the capability of our system. Also when we need to upgrade or add new functions to the system we need to apply the adaptive maintenance. Perfective maintenance involves changing an operational system to make it more efficient, reliable or maintainable. Perfective maintenance can improve maintainability and performance. It involves computer programmers who work to improve the way software program functions or how quickly it processes requests. For example to change our menu layouts, command interfaces for some functions or changing the number of daily orders. The other maintenance type which is useful for our system is preventative maintenance. In this kind of maintenance we try to predict and avoid probable problems before occurring . For example, to ensure that our system is scalable to have more customers in the future, we must check if our system is able to handle high data loading and other stressful operations without problem or we need to limit the number of daily orders to avoid problems. Installing antivirus software to protect our system from attacks, having a regular backup schedule to use it when something wrong goes with the system, are also examples of preventative maintenance that we can apply simply for our system. Appendix Perform research on the Internet to learn more about Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and develop a TCO checklist that includes the five most important elements of TCO. Relate your answers to your Assignment 2. (Please put this analysis as appendices in Assignment 2 report). Total cost of ownership (TCO) generally includes ongoing support and maintenance costs, as well as acquisition costs. TCO totally formed from two different types of cost, which are Direct and indirect costs. Direct costs can be measured in dollars. These costs result from a decrease in expenses, an increase in revenues or both. If we want to list the most important elements of direct costs for an information system, the list would be as following: 1. Hardware and software (capital and lease expenses) In our project, because we do it in-house and we didn’t pay for hardware or software, this part didn’t add any cost to our TCO. 2. Support ( maintenance, training, travel etc) In this project, our group members have done all SDLC phases based on their knowledge gain from SAD course and have used their background knowledge for programming parts. Therefore, we didn’t pay for training. But, there are some costs for transportation and traveling to and from Taktaz restaurant which is placed in Serdang. 3. Development Because we did the whole project in-house with our group members, we didn’t pay any extra fees for labors or out-sourcing. 4. Communication fees The biggest part of our project costs, was communication fees which we paid to contact our group members in each phase of SDLC. Indirect costs are difficult to measure in dollars but are important and need to consider as a part of TCO. The most important indirect costs in our project are indicating in below. 1. User time User time cost is the cost of users supporting themselves and each other instead of out-sourcing costs. Costs for user formal training, casual learning, and self-studies are included in user time cost. We needed to learn some issues mostly related to programming part by ourselves during the project. 2. Opportunity cost The highest valued alternative that we need to forego when we are doing our project is part of opportunity cost or downtime cost . lost wages can be a measurement for this kind of costs.

Simple moving average for product 8 Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Simple moving average for product 8 - Term Paper Example Valuable information will need to be strategized based on the product name, store, product store id, sales, promotion, date, 3 weekly, and 4 weekly. The selected product data will be based on a long period of time. The strategy will be tested on the products rather than an individual product, for the reason that the representative products will be tested. Since the daily product data was not available, the three and the four week data will be used instead. One advantage for the strategy is that the transaction cost will be reduced2. For product store 8a, the forecasting accuracy for 3 and 4 weekly are 7.6 and 6 respectively. Product 8b for 3 and 4 weekly are 13.67 and 15.5 respectively. Product 8c1 are 4.67 and 3.5 for 3 and 4 weekly respectively. For product 8d1, the forecasting accuracy for 3 and 4 weekly are 20.33 and 22.5 respectively, while the forecasting accuracy for 3 and 4 weekly are 4.667 and 5.75

HRM Part of a module in a Business degree Assignment

HRM Part of a module in a Business degree - Assignment Example After the candidates appear for tests and interviews, the best amongst them is chosen for the job under consideration. This person then gets hired with either a contractual job or a fixed one. In essence, the recruitment and selection procedures entail of the different norms that take place from the starting to the finish. The procedures comprise of all the tasks which are deemed as significant in the selection process (Smith & Robertson, 1993). It must be understood here that the selection processes are very cumbersome at times because they involve a lot of thinking on the part of the selection committees within the workplace domains. They have to work towards completion of tasks as well as solve the problems related with hiring the best individual for the said position. It is indeed a headache for some of the organizations in the time and age of today, and quite rightly so, due to a host of factors involved with the eventual recruitment process. Selection procedures include the dif ferent selection tools which are the interviews, the exams, the psychological and stress related tests, medical exams and so on. The manner in which these exams and interviews come about depends a great deal on the way the selection processes are aligned within the domain of the organization itself. ... In fact the human resources department has the most important role in the selection process because it has to forward the soundest individual to the top management for the sake of interview, after he/she has cleared the exam and medical test. Hence the ideological basis of the human resources department is of utmost essence within the related scheme of selection processes that work to good effect in producing viable results in recruitment and selection domains. The selection processes work towards building the core competencies of the individuals as well as detailing them with regards to what is deemed as the most significant rationale for the organization with respect to these employees. It is pertinent to understand that these selection processes will bring in the much touted results and there would not be any problems in the wake of hiring the right people for the right jobs. Recruitment and selection are taken of as being the most significant yardsticks for discerning how sound t he strategic human resource management will shape up within any organization. What this implies is the fact that reasonably adequate individuals are recruited and selected for the jobs as this shall bring in the goals and objectives which have been envisaged by the organization in the past. There is a great deal of learning which shapes up the strategic human resource management; and how the same is dealt with has to be given proper consideration as well. This is because recruitment and selection matters discuss how well people are suited to perform their jobs and what best they can do to bring out solid results for the sake of the organization that is under discussion. The top management