Women on the Marketing Frontline Essay Example for Free

Women on the Marketing Frontline Essay This is the changing scenario of world, where globalization has an impact on the conscience of world economy. Foreign stakes in Indian Industries opened global avenues for Indian venture. Strategic planning of staffing emerged as the extreme need for the Corporate and industries, to hold the league of competition. In India few years back where every segment of the opportunities were opened only for males. Hence Indian industries tend to be called as male dominated. Today the women of India are on equal status as much as their male counterparts whether that is public or private Sector. As we know some of the sectors / fields had a male dominance but today it is on the equal anvil. Women also have tremendous opportunities in pre male dominated sector i. e. marketing. There are major firms in India opt for women presence in the field of marketing especially Pharma Marketing. Long ago when Tie-walas were the beauty of clinics and hospitals at the outside in waiting queue most earnestly than patients, is now like a shifting paradigm of this job profile in India. Now a day’s responsibility has been taken over by their female counterparts. Doctors might have some relax session after the close hours with the patients. Today it is a common sight to see a lady medical representative (MR) or lady field executive waiting alongside a group of male MRs for her turn to call on a doctor. Likewise, at cycle meetings and product launch meetings, the sight of a lady Product Executive (PE) or lady Product Manager (PM) conducting the meeting is also a familiar sight. But such was not the case two-three decades ago. Traditionally, in 1970s and early 1980s, the Indian pharmaceutical industry, like most other industries, was a male dominated industry. Girls graduating in pharmacy in 1980s were chosen mainly for quality control or packing department, while post-graduate ladies were chosen either in analytical development or formulation development or they ended up teaching at pharmacy colleges. On their part, ladies too, preferred to tread only on the tested paths and hardly dared to experiment with newer career options. In the late 80s wave changed. With more girls opting for pharmacy than boys, a few girls ventured into the unexplored terrains of pharma marketing and sales. Indian companies such as Gufic Laboratories, Unichem and Lupin Laboratories were among the foremost to give ladies a chance in the typical male-dominated jobs such as MRs and PEs. Have women done their new role in pharma marketing and sales? Now we know sky is not the limit for the females as they have been empowered by their own vital thinking, whereas experts have an interesting expression Women tend to opt for a more open environment. However, we notice that companies in general are beginning to hire women, as they prove to be far more committed, added Sanjeev Duggal, MD, NIS Sparta, an organization, which imparts sales training for companies. (Source: internet blog posted on 27 Dec. 2007) Nagpur is witness for projected growth in pharma sector where 1500 Male Representatives earn their bread and 125 female representatives exist comparatively at lower ratio level. Every year 35% male left the jobs from pharma sector. It again gets high on the female part i. e. 60%. Women mainly deprived of maternity benefits which remain matter for concern after marriage according to Shri D. G. Deshpande Secretary- MSMRA (Maharashtra Sales and Medical Representatives Association). On the other hand Shri V. S. Ranade Vice President FMRAI (Federation of Medical Sales Representatives Association of India) put his positive remark on the maternity benefits. Accordingly females are now entitled for these benefits as it was not on the list of companies agenda. This very step have brought radical change and proved helpful for the recruitment of females in the sector. In a detailed discussion with Mr. D. G. Deshpande on the female entrance and presence in the pharma sector, we came to know that their organization is concerned for working hours that should be not more than eight hours. Being a woman, security always comes first after the convenience. It is clear that job for female MRs more secured than it was earlier. It is sure that different motto can be considered while recruiting these charms towards high outcome in business. In a hectic field schedule some can find lovely atmosphere at their field work that might help to increase energy amongst colleagues. Female Representatives are welcomed by Doctors with increased interest at the detailing side of the business by these female MR. Our society even has raised their thumb as the backbone for the profession in women. Dr. Anad Asia generously made his positive statement for the work of female MR. Everyone knows male dominance as prevalent in a sector and even was the identity of the same which initially was the hurdle while Ms. Shital Analkar got selected by one of leading pharma company Cipla Protec. Shital’s family unwillingly gave their consent for the pharma job but gradually they find it more secure and even lucrative. When we thought about business it is competition make every venture more comprehensive. It is spirit get ignited when workplace cheered after the achievements appreciated, if it is crowned by female representatives. Boys even feel the heat if the stance made by a lady MR, which itself spread the sense of competition. Then it is regardless to say this has proved fruitful for organization. Mr. Anup Detharia ASM, Zydus (Cadila) gave concluding word to his responsibilities, sometimes arranged in above manner. Even colleagues expressed their amiable relationship with the female counterparts when had the discussion with Mr.  Akash Wadibhasme MR Zydus (Cadila). To get up to the doctors and made them write specific prescriptions is not an ending task of pharma marketing. After the successful detailing, retailing brings sales outcome. Concluding visit in evening with retailers distributors pave an extra way to meet the demand that created by MRs towards their sales target. It is hazardous when MRs neglect or remain irregular at this point. Once demand come into action it is necessary to be available in market sufficiently. Retailers again found that all irregularities curbed out since the presence of female MR. When drugs are prescribed it should be available with market and once it is available throughout the market it is again to be sold out in time, it is only when visits being carried out regularly. M/s Bakshe Medical and General Stores leading chemist put his expression to back up the ladies force. These female MR are the face of the company and much of what they do and sell on the field; reflect in the companys bottom-line. However, pharma companies spurt like mushrooms. Some flourish. Some vanish. While these charming messengers of life-saving drugs work, sure for their future.

The Major Sources Of Economic Income Many Areas Of The World Tourism Essay

The Major Sources Of Economic Income Many Areas Of The World Tourism Essay Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Island, at a size of 3,667 square Kilometres and is located off the South-east coast of Spain. The islands coastline stretches for 550 km, and has a climate of hot summers and mild winters with average temperatures reaching 21 Celsius. Mallorcas current population is just over 790,000, and the official language is either Catalan or Spanish, although due to the increasing number of tourists many young Mallorcans can speak some English and German. Tourism in Mallorca began to grow rapidly in the 1950s, with 98,000 tourists visiting the island. By 1995 almost three million tourists had visited, and by 2001 more than 19,200,000 people had visited the island by air, with another 1.5 million visiting by sea. The main attractions to Mallorca for tourists are sandy beaches, the weather, tourist infrastructure and for some, the many clubs located on the island. In total there are three million beds available on the island, which is more than enough for three times the local population. Since this huge rise in the number of tourists, tourism has become the main form of income for Mallorcans and tourism accounts for 85% of the islands income (Jackson et al 1999). The summer months is the peak season for tourists visiting the island, while during the spring, winter and autumn it is cooler and cheaper. Normally the winter caters for those with second homes on the island, and also elderly holidays. The consequences of mass, concentrated tourism in Mallorca has however led to many problems on the island. Tourists have a very negative impact on Mallorcas environment. On a field course to Mallorca in 2007, it discovered that at peak times of the year, 25 tons of sand is carried from Es Trenc beach by tourists in their towels, toes and shoes. Tourists also cause water shortages across through swimming pools, hotels and golf courses. Tourists also tend to shower a lot more often than the host population. This is very damaging for Mallorca as water then has to be shipped in from main land which can be very costly. Mallorca also has a lot of air pollution. Amazingly Mallorcans own the most number of cars per head in Europe. In CalviÃÆ'   alone there are eight hundred cars per thousand of the population. According to the World Tourism Organisation (WTO), seventy million cars pass through CalviÃÆ'   each year. Fifty million of these are driven by tourists. Also of course there is the amount of litter that tourists leave behind which has a major impact on the environment and wild life. However, the cost to Mallorcas environment has been blinded, at least until recently, by the great economic prosperity that tourism has brought to the island. Mallorcas economy is heavily reliant on tourism (85% of income).Tourism is an integrated and fragmented product, meaning that money from tourists goes directly to hotels, restaurants and shops. This expenditure coming from tourists can also have indirect benefits with improvements to infrastructure and community services (Mathieson et al 1992). This has been proved in Mallorca because Mallorcans enjoy some of the highest living standards in Spain. Tourism in Mallorca is also the main employer, and Mallorcas employment levels are very low because of the tourism industry and also the current housing and construction boom, to cater for more tourists. However, Mallorca has become far too reliant on tourism as its main source of income. Should the tourism industry for what ever reason collapse in Mallorca, then the economy could pot entially be devastated. With the current financial crisis, tourism has already fallen by 15% ( Unger SalÃÆ' ¨n 2009). Also with high seasonal variation, should a tourist business not be successful during the peak season (summer), then it will be very hard to survive financially through the winter months. The tourism boom in Mallorca has also led to a 30% increase in the price of land, partially due to homes being built with black money. This has forced many young Mallorcans to leave the island in search of affordable land to live on. This potentially has effects for the future of Mallorca as young people are seen as being initiative and are being forced off the island. As you can see, past and even some present tourism practices are not sustainable in Mallorca. However, since the end of the 1980s to present the regional and national government policies have worked hard to try and make tourism in Mallorca more sustainable. The WTO defines sustainable tourism as Å“meeting the needs of present tourist and host regions while protecting and enhancing the opportunity for the future  (1992). Perhaps a definition of sustainable tourism more relevant to Mallorca would be Å“Tourism should be sustained without having an effect on other activities within the area. It should not hog or displace the current economy but should complement and bolster it. It should help diversify the economy rather than replacing certain aspects of it . Can Mallorca actually achieve sustainable tourism? Since the mid 1980s, and even more so during the 1990s, government policies have been trying to make tourism in Mallorca sustainable. During the 1970s tourism in Mallorca was seen as a job creator, and the effects on the environment were ignored. The government first began to notice the problems associated with tourism during the recession in 1974. Visitor numbers were at their lowest levels since the Franco regime, and it began to show on the island (The Mallorca Tourist Board 2006). In 1983 the Balearics were given full autonomy to establish its own tourism policy, independent from Central Government in Spain. This was a major step on the road to sustainability as local government could be far more effective in distributing sustainable policies as they know what the most problematic areas are. Following autonomous government decrees came a series of policies to make Mallorca a more sustainable tourist destination. Work by Estaban Bardolet suggests that Mallorcas aims were to Å“protect the environment, limit growth, improve quality of services, infrastructure and product . These aims will be useful in order to find out how effective Mallorca has been about becoming more sustainable. To find out just how effective sustainable policy in Mallorca has been, the essay will be split into sub sections, firstly looking at ËÅ"environmental protection, then ËÅ"limiting growth and finally ËÅ"improving the quality of product. Environmental Protection The first law on protecting the environment came in 1984 with ËÅ"protecting natural areas of special interest, which limited tourism development and protected natural resources, and was followed by a law on Å“territorial planning  in 1987. The 1987 law was very important, as it was the first law put into place that regulated the construction of hotels and other buildings, which in the past had been allowed to be built almost anywhere (Middleton et al 2001). Before this law was put into place, many new constructions were built on the beach front, which severely damaged the ecology of the sand dunes. In 1988, a wetland area of approximately 2,580 ha with a perimeter of 32 km was been created at SAlbufera. It was created in to help preserve Mallorcas natural environment and animal habitats. Since then the area has been declared a ZEPA, Bird Special Protection Zone, a Biosphere and a Ramsar site. Tourists are attracted to the area to see the rare bird species, which is ironic because the area was created to stop the mass tourist development and conserve the environment in the area. This was one of the very first environmental policies introduced by local government in the Balearics, and was followed up in 1991 with the law on Å“Natural Areas  which put 33% of territory in the Balearic Islands under protection. This law proved very significant as it prevented any construction on these areas of land, and therefore preventing further damage to the natural environment. In 1997 the government expanded its 1987 policy on territorial planning to focus on more long term planning for all activities and to encourage higher quality tourism without depleting natural resources this came through work with Local Agenda 21, which will be discussed later using CalviÃÆ'   as an example. Also a Å“Law of Rural Land  was passed which put a cap on the amount of tourist villas and second homes which were allowed to be developed in rural areas. However, there was no evidence to suggest that this law lessened construction of tourist homes in rural areas and there has also been an increase in the refurbishment of old farm houses, which has further weakened the presence of agriculture in rural areas of Mallorca. In 2002, the Government of the Balearic Islands launched a tourist eco tax to help counteract the environmental problems caused by tourists. The tax amounted to an extra à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬1 per day, per adult (over 16) and would be collected by registered tourist accommodation (Middleton et al 2001). However the tax was abandoned in 2003 following a change in government. During its brief time the tax helped raise à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬25 million, which was used to help clean up Mallorcas environment (geographypages.co.uk). However the abolishment of the tax did show that the government were not fully committed to helping improve Mallorcas environment. Limiting Growth One of Mallorcas main problems as a tourist destination was its over crowdedness and frequently exceeding the carrying capacity. One of the first government policies to limit growth came in 1984 with ËÅ"Decree Cladera I. This policy demanded that 30m ² of land for individual tourist beds and that some of the land was to be used for leisure. (Batle et al 1999). Then in 1987 the ËÅ"Decree Cladera II expanded the required land to 60m ² and introduced a new minimum quality hotel standard. These policies were very successful as they limited the growth of cheap, poor quality hotels on the island. However, it can also be argued that this would simply cause a greater number of tourists to the island, because by the 1990s, people had more disposable incomes, and no longer had to look for cheap, poor quality accommodation whilst on holiday as they could now afford much better. In 1997 the Å“D  plan was introduced which highlighted the need to promote off peak tourism to the island. The Mallorcan government worked hard to advertise and promote off peak visits to the island to try and relieve some of the pressure during the summer months. The plan has been reasonably effective with more people, especially the elderly visiting the island during the winter months. However there is still far too much pressure on the islands resources during the summer to say this plan has been effective. In 1999 the Balearics Government introduced a new Tourism Law which brought together previous legislative acts. The new law stopped bed capacity for all of the Balearic Islands (Middleton et al 2001). This is very important because by decreasing, or stopping increases in the amount of tourist beds, you effectively reduce tourism growth on the island. The new law also set about limiting further development in urban areas, except for all ready approved sites. The most important act to come from this new law was to make any construction closer than 500 meters of the sea shore forbidden (in 1988 the Spanish Government had previously set it at 100 meters) (Middleton et al 2001). This again was very important as the construction of hotels and other tourist buildings along the seashore had on the past been destroying the coast line. On a fieldtrip to Mallorca in 2007 an examination of how construction had affected the ecology of sand dunes at Es Trenc took place. The sand dunes examined wer e very unhealthy, due to the fact that a hotel had been built on it at . Improving quality of product At the end of the 1980s began the International Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Decade. In 1988 the External Support Agencies (ESAs) Collaborative Council was established to help co-ordinate water sanitation. Following the establishment of this council the Å“Global Sanitation Plan  was introduced in 1989 and was to be completed by 1997 at a cost of US$200 million (Bardolet). As a result new water sewage systems were built in Mallorca which helped keep the sea clean. The plan was very successful in keeping beaches clean as by the end of the 20th Century, fifty beaches in the Balearics had been awarded ËÅ"Blue Flag status. However the plan was not completely successful as there is a worry that the water table may have been contaminated by water that has not been recycled properly. In 1990 a plan to ËÅ"embellish tourist resorts was introduced. Over US$100 million was invested to coastal areas to make walkways, lighting and green spaces along the seaside. The plan was very successful as it made coastal areas aesthetically very attractive to tourists. However, many local people living in the sea side areas dislike it as it has made seaside areas very urbanised. In 1994 the Balearic Government introduced the Hotel Accomodation Modernisation plan. The plan stated that hotels built before 1984 were to be inspected and then renovated. The government set a deadline of completion of renovation by 1997. Any hotels which did not comply would be shut down, however by 1997 30% of hotels had not yet been finished so the deadline was extended to 1999 (Bardolet). The renovation work cost just under US$800 million. However this plan greatly improved Mallorcas tourist accommodation, as combined with other acts, the emphasis on accommodation was now on quality rather than quantity. In 1996 the ËÅ"Law on Modernisation of the Complementary Tourism Supply was introduced to run along side the previous plan of 1994 however this law was aimed at the catering sector. Again this improved the quality of product as it improved the standards of the catering industry, and there for improving the quality of experience for tourists. Case study Calvi CalviÃÆ'   has grown as a tourism resort since the 1960s and is now the second largest urban area in Mallorca after Palma. CalviÃÆ'  s economy is highly reliant on tourism, with 95% of jobs being tourist-related. Average family incomes are 130% the national average, and 105% the European average (United Nations publication 2003). However, years of mass growth has led to environmental damage, aging leisure facilities and poor quality services for tourists (AquilÃÆ' ³ 2005). CalviÃÆ'   was becoming overcrowded with its population 3,000 to 40,000 inhabitants over a short period of time (CalviÃÆ'   Local Agenda 21). The first consequences of this were seen between 1988 and 1990 when tourism fell by 20%, CalviÃÆ'   was losing its competitiveness as a tourist resort. CalviÃÆ'   had become unsustainable because damage caused to its natural environment, especially along coastal areas. The area suffered water shortages, air pollution and had problems with extensive amounts of rubbish. It also had very poor transportation links and lacked diverse employment opportunities as most of the population was employed in the tourism industry. However, biggest problem was tat CalviÃÆ'   had greatly exceeded its carrying capacity, and could no longer cope with the number of tourists visiting the area in the high season. To reinstate CalviÃÆ'   as a major tourist destination in Mallorca, local councillors along with the Spanish Ministry for Tourism developed Å“The CalviÃÆ'   Plan for Tourists Excellence  at the start of the early 1990s (CalviÃÆ'   Local Agenda 21; Bustamante 1999). The plan had three main points, clear buildings along coastal areas, promote off-peak tourist practices and to train the population in employment in the tourism industry. However the plan did have its limitations. It is argues that it did not look at the long term development of the area, and merely wanted to deal with trying to once again boost tourist areas. It was also not properly co-ordinated in terms of economic, social and environmental interaction. The failure of Å“CalviÃÆ'   Plan for Tourists Excellence  led to the adoption of CalviÃÆ'   Local Agenda 21, one of the main sustainable policy instruments to come from Rio de Janeiro in 1992 (AguilÃÆ' ³ 2005). A strategy was put forward in 1996. The main aim of this policy was long term tourism .and local sustainable development with protecting and enhancing the environment being the main objective (Molz 2004). Ten action plans were devised, and forty initiatives were put into action. This approach meant a new integrated approach to tourism between local council, national council and Non Government Organisations NGOs working together to make CalviÃÆ'   a more sustainable destination. It also allowed for resident participation, one of the key features of sustainable development (Bell et al 1999). The sustainable action plan through ËÅ"CalviÃÆ'   Local Agenda 21 has been very successful in making CalviÃÆ'   a more sustainable tourist resort and in attracting tourists back to the area. In 2000 1.6 million people visited CalviÃÆ'  , from which 86% came from abroad (CalviÃÆ'   Local Agenda 21). Conclusion In the Twenty First Century, Mallorca has developed itself into a high quality tourist resort, partly due to the efforts and policies put into place by the governments of the late 1980s and 1990s. In 2004, there were 180 hotels and agroturismos (transformed traditional Mallorcan fincas) had been built inland (Cox 2005). At first this may seem like a bad thing, as tourist developments are taking up even more land. However, this type of tourism accommodation is marketed to the eco-friendly tourist, who cares about their own impact on the tourist destination. This type of tourism is also of a very high quality, and also limits growth and overcrowding as the carrying capacity of these resorts is low. However, being so far inland the tourist is more likely to use a car to get to other areas because they are not in walking distance. This type of tourism is much more sustainable than the traditional sun, sea and sand holidays that had previously been associated with Mallorca. Mallorca has now emerged as a high quality tourist destination, challenging the traditional views of a bargain holiday destination. Mallorca now boasts five-star resorts, luxury hotels and very high quality restaurants. The service industry has also gained from higher class tourism, especially catering. In 2006 Mallorca had six Michelin- starred restaurants (businessweek.com 2006). However, Mallorca still suffers from the stereotypical idea that the island is a cheap holiday destination offering beaches and cheap drink. Some government policies such as the eco-tax have failed, while others have not done enough to tackle problems such as the environmental damage caused by years of irresponsible tourist development plans. Some policies and work from groups in the 1990s have helped Mallorca become aware that tourist practices can not continue. However, there is still much work to be done in order to make Mallorca a fully sustainable holiday destination.

Essay --

Bryanna Lay Mrs. Standlea CW 115, per. 3 17 december 2013 Comparison of Careers Trauma nurses serve as specialty care providers for anyone who comes into the ER with illnesses that go beyond the natural sickness. Also patients that have been in severe car accidents with brutal injuries, or that need intensive care immediately. They treat and tend to patients with a broad range of health issues and prescribe any medication that is needed. They are registered nurses who have increased training and see patients for an array of complications, as well as general check-ups, performing x-rays, ordering medical histories and working alongside a doctor. There are multiple types of Social workers, such as Clinical social workers. This type of social worker provides counseling in either a one on one form or a group in which they keep detailed records of the conversations for school or court purposes. They assist people with problems such as depression, drug dependency, and stress. Likewise, with teens and their misbehavior in the classroom, the amount of absences or pregnancy. Often talking to the parents or teachers, the Social Worker finds an explanation for the cause of the problem. In addition to the counseling, Social Workers provide homes and help any of them adjust to their lives by monitoring the clients progress in solving the problem. Another example of a Social Worker is a Child social worker. By ensuring that pregnant mothers/teens and underprivileged children are fed and clothed well, they work to assure the health and security of the children; often placing young kids in foster care or adoptive services. The last group of social workers is Medical and psychiatric social workers. Medical and psychiatric ... ...l amount of years as possible, they would have to attend extra classes, have a double major or have previous credit hours. A Master’s of Science (MSN), could take up to five or six years. The steps that need to be taken to become a Social Worker are quite simple but take up a great deal of time. Most Social Workers are obligated to get a bachelor’s degree in social work, however a Clinical Social Worker needs to have a Master’s Degree and a two year experience in a clinical setting where they can be supervised. They’re also required to have a license in the state of which they plan on practicing. A few of the necessary subjects/classes a Social worker will have to take are as followed: Therapy and counseling, Psychology, customer and personal service, Social Anthropology, English language, Law and government, educational training, and Philosophy and Theology.

Oliver Twist - Name Etymology Essay -- essays research papers

Oliver Twist - Name Etymology Summary: Oliver Twist is a poor orphan boy cruelly treated in the public workhouse. Pennyless and hungry, he runs away to London, only to fall into the clutches of a gang of thieves and pickpockets led by the master criminal, Fagin. Befriended by a man robbed by the gang, Oliver ultimately learns his true identity and gains a new home, a fortune and a brand new family! Name Analogies: Oliver: Norman French form of a Germanic name, possibly the name Alfihar meaning "elf army". The spelling was altered by association with Latin oliva "olive tree". The olive tree also symbolises longevity and hope, and the olive tree is renowned eternal. It is also a symbol of peace and reconciliation, the branch of the olive tree is chosen by God to mean to Noà © (Noah) that the Flood is finished and that the diminution begins, symbol of the forgiveness. Also symbolising of victory, the olive tree is a present loaded with a gratifying meaning during the Olympic Games in Athens. Crown of olive tree and jars of olive oil are so offered to the winners. A symbol of force, the olive tree is renowned for its very compact, very heavy and very hard wood. It is wooden of olive tree that are made Hercules’s bludgeons and it is with the wooden picket of olive tree that Ulysses brings down Cyclops in the Odyssey. I think this name suits Oliver very well as his name, derived from the olive tree. It symbolizes peace and reconciliation as Oliver duly shows...

Violent Video Games and Aggression in Children Essay -- Argumentative,

Over the past 30 years, playing video games has become one of the most popular hobbies worldwide. Not only has the video game industry become a multi-billion dollar industry, but it has attracted people from all age types. While video games today are played by both kids and adults, there are many issues being raised regarding the effects of video games. More particular, is the effect that violent video games may be having on children. Some critics argue that video games are direct indicators of child aggression while video game supporters argue that there is no direct link between child aggression and violent video games. While many people have their own personal stances, this issue is unique because it is unfolding everyday. Scientists and researchers all over the world are continuously doing research regarding the effects of video games on children. Even though this remains a field of uncertainty for researchers, parents should definitely be involved in being aware of what it is th at they’re children are playing when they play video games. While many different case studies have been done all over the world, scientists have yet to prove that there is a direct correlation between violent video games and child aggression. Since the start of this quarter, this has been an issue that I have been doing extensive research on. Despite looking into several scholarly sources, I was surprised to see that many of my findings were pretty consistent with one another. For the mort part, what I found through my research was a bunch of statistics from case studies and the interpretation of those statistics from renowned scientists. In many cases, statistics and studies showed slight indications that violent video games have an effect on c... ...Lincoln. , Retrieved from http://www.psychology.iastate.edu/faculty/caa/Multimedia/EyeOnPsiChiInterview.pdf Paton, G. (2012, April 03). Violent video games are fueling rise in aggressive behavior. The Telegraph. Retrieved from http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationnews/9183385/Violent-video-games-are- fuelling-rise-in-aggressive-behaviour.html Kravets, D. (2011, June 27). States may not ban sale, rental of violent video games to minors. Retrieved from http://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2011/06/violent-video-games-scotus/ Tang, W. (2009, December 13). Abstract realism in video games and aggression. Retrieved from http://vgresearcher.wordpress.com/2009/12/13/abstract-realism-in-video-games-and-aggression-barlett-rodeheffer-2009/ Leung, R. (2009, February 11). Can a video game lead to murder?. Retrieved from http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-18560_162-702599.html

Culturally Proficient Leadership

EDLA 626 – Culture, Diversity & Human Rights Culturally Proficient Leadership: The Personal Journey Begins Within Summary: Part 1: Leadership as an Informed Personal Perspective Chapter 1: The Leadership Journey Begins Within Getting Centered – reality – many people in society still live segregated lives based on race / ethnicity, class – It is important that we look inward to ourselves in order to understand our reactions to people culturally different than us. – Such understanding allows us to effectively teach â€Å"other peoples’ children† Taking a Look at My School and What I See (and Don’t See) Schools and districts are influenced by social, political and economic forces not readily apparent. – Underlying the visible elements of our school communities are unapparent forces that make even more impact on our students, schools and us. – These invisible historical forces contribute to the sense of privilege or de privation experienced in our schools that impacts our students, parents and us. – These forces are termed as equity issues and serve as the metaphorical elephant in the room that many pretend not to see. Are there â€Å"Equity Issues† in Your School? – Reaction to equity issues is dependent on one’s own experiences as a student. Different experience produced for students of different cultural groups (past & present). – Regardless of personal experiences, a school leader and his/her vision benefits from knowledge of historical context of access and equity issues. – Two expressed values not fully realized are universal public education through High School and equitable educational opportunities (ex. Only 27 states have compulsory education requirements to age 16). – Progress toward universal education is linked with advancement in equitable treatment and equal outcomes for students based on gender, race, ethnicity and ableness is also e volving. Prominent researchers have pressed the issue for equity in schools for 2 generations. Confronting the â€Å"Gaps† as a Leadership Issue – Leaders faced with challenge of leading schools in ways that provide equitable opportunities irrespective of a student’s culture – The mere composition of any school poses naturally challenges due to differences (culture, race, gender, socio-economic, achievement, etc. ). – Leaders need to address systemic access disparities of quality educational programs, experienced funding and equitable school funding otherwise the status quo of gaps will continue. More equitable funding alone does not even things out . . . must be accompanied by a change in the way many students are educated. – Important question for leaders: How do we meet the academic and social needs of students who come to school with a different set of values, beliefs, socioeconomic experiences, behaviors, language and ability? NCLB as a Leadership Tool – NCLB can serve as a tool to support access and equity efforts. – NCLB has made public aware of differential educational opportunity and achievement patterns that exist in our schools and communities. NCLB used as pretext to point out and address achievement gap issues. Such a gap is a multifaceted outcome measure of gaps in access to education. – Achievement gaps differentiated by race, ethnicity, gender, class, etc. are being highlighted by the media. Definitions of Key Terms – Culture: The set of practices and beliefs shared by members of a particular group that distinguish that group from other groups. – Cultural Informancy: Reflects our experience of having cross cultural relationships that are authentic and trusting which allow for mutual learning and feedback leading to personal growth. Demographic Groups: Often used in schools in pace of subgroup. – Dominant Culture: A culture readily visible in a classroom and scho ol which often benefits from treatment, attention and success while others may be hidden and not apparent and not receive equitable treatment or attain equal levels of success.. – Equity: Access to material and human resources in proportion to needs. – Ethnicity: Ancestral heritage and geography, common history and to some degree physical appearance. – National Origin: A designation related to a person’s country of birth and prior citizenship. Nativism: The practice of valuing the rights of citizens born in this country over those of immigrants (marginalization effort & attempt of immigrants). – Race: A concept developed by social scientists and misinterpreted and used by groups to characterize people by their physical features and to use those differences to justify suppression of some while promotion of others. – Reflection: careful consideration of one’s behaviors, plans, values and assumptions in an effort to improve interpersonal and professional practice. – Sexual Orientation: An enduring, emotional, romantic, sexual or affectional attraction to another person.It exists along a continuum and differs from sexual behavior because it refers to feelings and self-concept. Chapter 2: The Cultural Proficiency Leadership Lens – Provides an overview of the tools of cultural proficiency. Such will provide one with an important lens and knowledge for action. Getting Centered – Educational gaps are our issue with at least 3 arguments being important prerequisites: 1. We must acknowledge that educational gaps are historical and persistent. Although we inherited them, they cannot be ignored.The issue of academic underperformance of children of poverty and some visible minorities is not new information. 2. If gaps are to be closed, we must move forward to examine our values, behaviors, policies and practices of our schools. 3. We can make a difference when we pay attention to who students say they ar e and their needs before the needs of our own and that of the school system. – Cultural proficiency is: †¢ A process that begins with us, not with our students or their communities †¢ A shift in thinking that moves us from viewing culture as problematic to embracing and esteeming culture. A lens through which we view our role as educators †¢ A concept comprised of a set of four interrelated tools to guide our practice. Cultural Proficiency Is an Inside-Out Process – Cultural proficiency is an inside-out process of personal and organizational change. It is who we are more than what we do. – We are students of our assumptions about self, others and the context in which we work with others – Fundamental to addressing educational gap issues is one’s willingness and ability to examine yourself and your organization. Cultural proficiency provides leaders with a comprehensive, systemic structure to identify, examine and discuss educational issues in our schools. Cultural Proficiency Represents a Leadership Paradigm – Cultural proficiency . . . a mindset for how we interact with all people regardless of background . . . a worldview that carries explicit values, language and standards for effective personal interactions and professional practices . . . is a 24/7 approach to both our personal and professional lives . . . is not a set of independent strategies one learns to use with others. Educators who commit to culturally proficient practices represent a paradigmatic shift away from the status quo dominant group view. The paradigmatic shift moves from tolerating diversity to transformational commitment to equity. Cultural Proficiency as an Educational Leadership Lens – The following four tools of cultural proficiency can be used as a template for a leader’s personal and professional development: 1. Guiding principles on which you can build an ethical and professional frame for effective cross-cultu ral communication and problem solving. 2.A continuum of behaviors that enables you to diagnose your values and behavior in such a way that you can better influence policies and practices of our profession. 3. Essential elements expressed in terms of standards of personal and professional conduct that serve as a framework for responding to academic and social needs of the cultural groups in your school & community. 4. Barriers to this work framed in such a way that you are intentional in the use of the guiding principles and essential elements. – Effective educational leaders are clear about themselves relative to working with and leading culturally diverse communities.The Cultural Proficiency Toolkit – Cultural proficiency is comprised of an interrelated set of 4 tools which provide the means for a leader to guide his personal and professional development in a cultural proficient manner. †¢ The Guiding Principles of Cultural Proficiency – Guiding principles provide one with a moral philosophical framework to examine & under-stand beliefs about the education of students from cultural groups different from them. – Guiding principles provide a framework of how the cultural diversity of students should inform professional practice when responding to student learning needs. A good place to see if school values align with predominant behaviors in the school is the mission / vision statement. †¢ The Cultural Proficiency Continuum – Consists of 6 points. The first 3 (cultural destructiveness, cultural incapacity, cultural blindness) points focus on them as being problematic. The next 3 (cultural precompetence, cultural competence, cultural proficiency) focus on your practice as transformational leadership. 1. cultural destructiveness – see the difference and eliminate it 2. cultural incapacity – see the difference and make it appear wrong 3. ultural blindness – see the difference and act like you donâ⠂¬â„¢t see it 4. cultural precompetence – see the difference and act but inconsistently in appropriateness 5. cultural competence – see the difference and be inclusive 6. cultural proficiency – see the difference and respond positively, engage, adapt and commit to social justice / equity †¢ The Five Essential Elements of Cultural Competence – These elements are standards for culturally competent values, behaviors, policies and practices I. Assessing Cultural Knowledge II. Valuing Diversity III. Managing the Dynamic of DifferenceIV. Adapting to Diversity V. Institutionalizing Cultural Knowledge †¢ Overcoming Barriers to Cultural Proficiency – There are barriers to achieving culturally proficient actions. They exist together in combination not as isolated events. I. Resistance to Change II. Systems of Oppression III. A Sense of Privilege and Entitlement †¢Cultural Proficiency is . . . – An approach for surfacing educatorsâ€℠¢ assumptions and values that undermine the success of some student groups – A lens for examining how we include and honour the cultures and learning needs of all students in the educational process.

Cigarette Tax

Section 1: â€Å"Cigarette tax hike sparks panic buying† By Ashley Hall Updated Thu Apr 29, 2010 What is the main issue presented in the media report? Discuss what has actually happened: In the year of 2010, the Federal Government raised taxes on cigarettes by an extra 25 per cent, resulting in an increase price of $2. 16 to every pack of 30 cigarettes. A proclamation stated by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd on the crackdown on Internet advertising of cigarettes was mentioned. Mr. Rudd also affirmed ‘the government will spend $27. million on an anti-smoking campaign (Hall, 2010) This media report outlines the publics impulsive buying of cigarettes upon the government’s mention of the very rapid increase in taxes, thus resulting in an upward increase in price. It mentions the dismays retailers and tobacconists faced due to the tax hike. Further more, mentioning the concerns of philanthropists and other individuals. Highlight the reason for the issue being raised: This i ssue was one that arose quite soon after its announcement, as it impacted the country in its majority in numerous ways. The justification behind this issue was the government’s lack of planning. The release of the tax hike occurred only several hours before its prospected start of midnight that night, which ultimately left little or possibly even no time to adjust and prepare for the subsequent price increase. (Hall, 2010) Outline what possible impacts this change could have: The unexpected change posed many impacts on an abundant area of the population. The change impacted the consumers (smokers), the suppliers/producers, retailers/tobacconists, charity workers and the government. The sudden publication of the price increase would lead to a majority of smokers purchasing larger amounts of cigarettes than usual, in an attempt to purchase the product at a cheaper price rather than at its increased price. The retailers/tobacconists face the prospects of higher demands and physical impossibilities such as lack of stock and time to prepare. Although on the contrary as stated by the executive director of Quit Victoria â€Å"100,000 people will quit smoking as the result of the price increase and 250,000 children will not take up the habit†. (Hall, 2010) From another viewpoint, the rapid increase in tax had an immediate negative impact on the number of people seeking assistance. This is solely the case, as a widely held proportion of smokers come from low-income groups, â€Å"In fact, people from low-income groups are 13 times more likely to quit smoking in the face of a prime increase than those from higher income groups†. (Hall, 2010) Who are the key stakeholders that are impacted by the issue outlined in the report? The key groups that may be impacted by the issues raised in this report are ultimately the key stakeholders; i. e. he customers, suppliers, regulators and competitors. The customers (smokers) are faced with the increased price on packets of cigarettes. Which ultimately puts an excise burden on consumer’s income. The suppliers were faced with a rapid increase in demand in the hours before the implementation of the tax increase, and perpetual demand between the periods after the tax. This is due to the noti on that smokers are not willing to go cold turkey over night simply due to an increase of $2. 16, but ultimately the possible immediate decline in number of packets bought/sold in the event prior to the tax increase. Suppliers are also faced with the concern of consumers opting for substitute goods (This means a good's demand is increased when the price of another good is increased) for example replacing cigarettes with chewing gum (even considering that cigarettes are inelastic). (McTaggart, 2010) Regulators, which in this case are the Government, are faced with constant scrutiny regarding their decisions and lack of planning. However, this tax hike increased an extra $5 billion over four years, which the Government would put towards its health and hospitals overhaul (Hall, 2010). So evidently, back into the economy. An increase in people seeking assistance will also place possible strains on charity workers, as people will continue to spend money on cigarettes rather than necessities. Competitors are also faced with a possible increase in demand, as the price of one good is increased, the demand of the substitute good is increased (McTaggart, 2010). Students and groups of people from low socioeconomic status will be directly affected the greatest. For those who come from high-income classes, their wages are generally increasing as the 25 per-cent increment is implemented, which ultimately does not substantially affect their income as a whole. However, students and people from low socioeconomic status groups are giving up necessities of life to feed their smoking addictions. What economic theories can be dawn from this media report? Opportunity cost: Graph 1: The theory of Opportunity cost (Graph 1): the amount of other products that must be sacrificed to obtain an extra unit of any product. The opportunity cost refers to the benefit forgone from the best alternative use of resources. (McTaggart, 2010) As the economy moves from point B towards point C, it must give up successively larger amounts of good B to obtain the same equal increment in good C (Layton, 2009). In relation to cigarette tax, people from lower income groups are giving up the necessities in order to feed their smoking addiction. Demand, Supply and Elasticity: Graph 2: The demand for cigarettes increased during the period of the government’s announcement and until midnight when the price increase was implemented: i. e. a change in consumer’s expectations about future prices brings forward an increase in consumption. (McTaggart, 2010) Graph 3: Change in demand is where the demand has shifted to the left hand side. Rise in price will see a greater quantity supplied (quantity will rise), shift in supply curve. McTaggart, 2010), (Layton, 2009). From midnight the equilibrium shifted to the left side along the demand curve by the price increase. As the result, as it was mentioned above, the quantities demanded decreased, due to the tax increase. Result in consumer and producer paying the burden of the tax increase. (McTaggart, 2010) Section 2: â€Å"Apple Shares hit as iPhone sales Fall Short† Sky News Oct 19, 2011 What is the main issue presented in the media report? Apple, one of the leading technological companies in the world has recorded revenues uncharacteristically short of expectations. Wall street analysts predicted iPhone sales during their fourth quarter earnings to be ’20 million sales’, with a short fall of ’17 million sold’. With overall revenues recorded at $28. 3 billion, substantially short of expectations (Sky News, 2011). Apple new chief executive ‘Tim Cook’ does not seem concerned about the recorded short fall of the company since the passing of Co-founder Steve Jobs. Recorded losses in revenue for Apple fourth quarter could be significantly the result of many factors (Sky News, 2011). The main contributing factor, being the short after release of the iPhone 4s. Due to the release of the iPhone 4s, consumers were withholding from purchasing older models of the iPhone, with the thought ‘I would rather wait a litter longer to purchase a new and updated version’. Ultimately the thought of consumers’ posses’ greater opportunity for Apple sales in the future but resulted in revenue falling short in their fourth quarter. The recorded revenue had a negative impact on the company. With the actual versus predicted sales of the iPhone falling short, Apple shared dropped 5% upon the announcement (Sky News, 2011). A drop in share price negatively affected the company, especially since a drop in share price has now only occurred since the passing of co-founder Steve Jobs. A drop in share price could result in consumers questioning whether they should continue to purchase Apple products, or if the drop in share price is a signaling factor that there is a higher demand for substitute goods. This could be the case as many other leading technological companies are constantly trying to innovate new and improve models of phones, laptops and tablets to keep up with Apples constant improvements. For example Samsung release of their new tablet caused large amounts of disputes between themselves and Apple, as Apple saw a large opportunity for threat to sales of their iPad. Although this is the case, the new iPhone 4s has sky rocketing sales of four million in its first three days on the market. As new chief executive ‘Tim Cook’ said: â€Å"customer response to iPhone 4s has been fantastic, we have momentum going into the holiday season, and we remain really enthusiastic about our product pipeline. † (Sky News, 2011). Who are the key stakeholders that are impacted by the issue outlined in the report? The key groups that may be impacted by the issues raised in this report are ultimately the key stakeholders; i. e. the customers, suppliers, shareholders and competitors. The customers are ultimately those who predict they continuing success of the company, without customer sales Apple would not exist. The hit of Apple shares could negatively impact consumer sales. A decline in the share price could signal a train of though in consumers mind that possibly there is a need for greater innovative or the threat of higher competitors in regards to Apple products. If consumers are being told that a company is recording predicted short falls in their expected revenue consumer might be apposed to their products, resulting in customers opting for substitute goods. (McTaggart, 2010) The suppliers in this report are in fact Apple and all other retailers that stock Apple products. The short fall of iPhone sales resulted in a decrease in revenue. Which ultimately lead to a decrease in the price of Apple shares. A decrease in share price could lead to a decline in possible sales, which results in a supplier surplus. Suppliers have a greater number of products to sell in relating to consumers who are interested in buying their product (McTaggart, 2010). In the event of the release of the iPhone 4s, suppliers are faced with higher consumer demand, which could result in a shortage of iPhone 4s in relation to consumer demands. Apples brand name and reputation is a very important asset to the company, with this issue being raised, it could have an impact on one of their largest assets. Shareholders, are those individuals or companies who have financially invested an interest in Apple, a decrease in share price negatively impacts shareholders. Decline in the share price by 5% results in a decrease in the value of shareholders wealth. The final group that is impacted by issues of a decline in Apples share price is competitors. This could have a positive impact to competitors. Negative public announcement over such a large and dominant company could result in a substantial amount of consumers opting to purchase products competitors offer, simply due to the decisions of other individuals. A consistent pattern in the public shows, that if a product is negatively represented in more than one way consumers will be very reluctant to purchase that product. Resulting in a positive advantage for competitor’s products. The group that would be impacted the most would be the suppliers. They are the key foundation of the company, without continued success the company could face greater hardships and decline in sales leading to a decline in revenue and share price as which occurred in the month of October 2011. What economic theories can be drawn from this media report? Supply and Demand: Graph 1: Demand curve during period of Apple reporting shortfall of sales and decreased revenue in recording during their fourth quarter. The graph above is a representation of changes in demand. Apple change in demand during this period is caused by consumer expectations, tastes and preferences. Where the soon to be released iPhone 4s resulted in the decrease of current iPhone sales. (McTaggart, 2010), (Layton, 2009). Graph 2: The Above graph is a representation of the supply and demand curve during the first release of the iPhone 4s. The supple curve remains constant (from period before and after the release of the iPhone 4s). Where significant changes occurred in relationship to the demand curve. The increase in demand which resulted in a right ward shift of the demand curve was a direct result of ‘taste or preferences of consumers’ a key determinant in the changes in demand (Layton, 2009). This was the case as consumers withheld from purchasing older models of the iPhone with anticipation of purchasing the newer and improved version of the iPhone (iPhone 4s). This resulted in Apple experiencing greater quantities demanded as stated in the article â€Å"iPhone 4s has sky rocketing sales of four million in its first three days on the market†. Change in demand results in change in new equilibrium (Sky News, 2011). References: McTaggart, D. , Findlay, C. , and Parkin, M. (2010), Economics, Sixth Edition, Addison-Wesley, Sydney Lecture Slides, Blackboard, University of Technology, Sydney, Insearch (2011), Economics for Business Unknown. 2011, ‘Apple shares hit as iPhone sales fall Short’, Sky News, YAHOO, viewed 4 November 2011, http://news. yahoo. com/apple-earnings-hit-drop-iphone-sales-220800212. html Layton, A. , T. Robinson and I. Tucker (2009), Economics for Today, Cengage Learning Australia, Australia: South Melbourne. Faculty of Business (2010), Guide to Writing Assignments (3rd ed. ), Faculty of Business, University of Technology, Sydney