Academic Resilience

Academic resilience presents factors that are involved in the enrollment of a student. Different factors contribute to the effect. The importance of understanding, accepting, and working at the goals to achieve academic resilience is essential. Below are five different studies that each explains their definitions of academic resilience and the contributions that can be made to impact student success. Morales (2008) researched academic resilience despite the fact of risk factors that would contribute to low academic performance. Some of the risk factors are environmental issues that place students in danger (Morales, 2008). Risk factors include; inferior schools, a culture of violence, and/or lack of parental attention (Morales, 2008). He found that students have vulnerability areas that may create problems in a specific situation. Some vulnerability areas can be gender, class, and race/ethnicity. Statistics have indicated that females have surpassed men in terms of degree attainment at the baccalaureate and master’s level (Morales, 2008). One of the biggest obstacles for females is the familial and social obligations which create stressful situations. Morales conducted a qualitative research on a sample size of 50 persons. Of the 50 participants 31 were female and 19 were male, with 30 self identifying as African American and 20 as Hispanic (Morales, 2008). All of the study participants were attending predominantly White higher education institutions (Morales, 2008). The students were chosen because they were the individuals who could best help understand a given phenomenon—in this case the process of academic resilience (Morales, 2008). The findings of the research concluded that females face more resistance than males. Borman and Overman (2004) investigated whether the allotment of an individual and school characteristics were associated with academic resilience differed due to race/ethnicity. They tested four models of risk factors in order to have a better picture of how schools might affect student resilient outcomes (Borman & Overman, 2004). The four risk factors included; effective schools, peer-group composition, school resources, and the supportive school community model. Schools that have students of poverty and of color may fail to provide a supportive school climate, by having low academic expectations, or by delivering inadequate educational resources (Borman & Overman, 2004). The individual characteristics, school characteristics, and the interaction between both may contribute to a student’s risk of academic failure (Borman & Overman, 2004). There research began with 3,981 students and diminished to 925 after careful selection. The goal of the study was to reveal school effects, student’s attitudes, and behaviors that were related to resilience construct (Borman & Overman, 2004). There research outcome was greater engagement in academic activities, efficaciousness in mathematics, a more positive outlook in school, and higher self esteem were characteristics of low SES (Socio Economic Status) students who achieved resilient outcomes in mathematics (Borman & Overnman, 2004). The results suggested that their economic status didn’t interfere with their academic resilience. McTigue, Washburn, and Liew (2009) explained that an academically resilient student needs to have a lot of self-regulation to maintain a positive attitude. Their further explanation of factors in preschool that is important for predicting later reading success are usually alphabet knowledge and phonological awareness. Even though those are important skills to adhere the personality factor is one that has been overlooked (McTigue, Washburn, Liew, 2009). There argument was to provide a theoretical basis for the role of socioemotional development in reading (McTigue, Washburn, Liew, 2009). The promotion of student self-efficacy was demonstrated in six key principles. The first principle is creating an environment with acceptance and warmth (McTigue, Washburn, & Liew, 2009). A safe environment allows students to feel comfortable and at ease in order to allow for knowledge to sink in. The second principle is literacy assessment should include measures of academic resiliency (McTigue, Washburn, & Liew, 2009). The key features are engagement and participation levels, self monitoring, and inquiries for help. Third principle involves; using direct modeling to promote literacy and self efficacy (McTigue, Washburn, & Liew, 2009). The fourth principle is effective feedback should be specific, accurate, and emphasize effort (McTigue, Washburn, & Liew, 2009). Modeling is important in student self efficacy but is not complete without feedback (McTigue, Washburn, & Liew, 2009). Goal setting is the fifth principle and should be achieved after proper feedback. In the final principle teachers should promote self-evaluation by allowing the students to view their accomplished goals. In conclusion, McTigue, Washburn, and Liew (2009) believe it is important to take into consideration all aspects of student development (cognitive, language, social, emotional) in synchrony. Students needs all have the above to function better in school but not all children have the same learning capacities. This report lacks to mention the children who might have mental retardation, cerebral palsy, autism, etc. and would need further attention than a regular student. Martin & Marsh’s (2008) study compares academic buoyancy to academic resilience. The differences are; the samples to which they relate, the operational differences, methodological distinctions, and the interventions that respond to them (Martin & Marsh, 2008). Academic resilience is characterized as â€Å"acute† and â€Å"chronic† adversities that are seen as a hardship to the developmental process (Martin & Marsh, 2008). It also focuses on ethnic groups, interaction of ethnicity, and underachievement (Martin & Marsh, 2008). Their argument is that buoyancy on the other hand focuses on the hardships that people deal with on a day to day basis rather than from acute or chronic adversities. Academic buoyancy is recognized in two areas, â€Å"every day hassles† and â€Å"coping† (Martin & Marsh, 2008). This study understands that there are multiple reasons behind student’s academic success in school. No one person is the same or lives similar lifestyles; therefore there are multiple reasons for unsuccessful academics. Gayles (2005) study was of three African Americans seniors in high School at one of the least affluent high schools in their area. In this research academic resilience signifies academic achievement when such achievement is rare for those facing similar circumstances or within a similar sociocultural context (Gayles, 2005). These students were the first in their families to graduate with honors, earned college scholarships, while they lives in non-affluent homes and community (Gayles, 2005). Gayles used open ended questions to and questions were directed towards the construction of the meaning of academic achievement. His study showed that for the students diminished their own achievement because they didn’t feel they were better than others (Gayles, 2005). The motivations that lead to their success were from living in their affluent homes and trying to surpass that by parental advisement, if they wanted something they had to work at their education. In conclusion, each of these studies indicated different areas or reasons behind academic resilience. As previously mentioned, the situations that students are in make an impact on what academic route they take. Some students may not overcome unsuccessful academics due to neglect in motivation or situational means. It is believed that with efforts and a strong set in mind academic resilience can overcome regardless of any situation. References Borman, G. D. , Overman, L. T. (2004). Academic Resilience in Mathematics among Poor and Minority Students: The Elementary School Journal. The University of Chicago Press. Vol. 104, No. 3, pp. 177-195. Gayles, J. (2005). Playing the Game and Paying the Price: Academic Resilience among Three High-Achieving African American Males. Anthropology and Education Quarterly. Vol. 36, No. 3, pp. 250–264. Martin, A. J. , Marsh H. W. , (2008). Academic Buoyancy: Towards an Understanding of Students' Everyday Academic Resilience. Journal of School Psychology. Vol. 46 Issue 1, p53-83, 31p Mc Tigue, E. M. , Washburn, E. K. , Liew, J. (2009). Academic Resilience and Reading: Building Successful Readers. Reading Teacher. Vol. 62 Issue 5, p 422-432, 11p, 6 charts Morales, E. E. (2008). Exceptional Female Students of Color: Academic Resilience and Gender in Higher Education. Innovative High Education, 33:197–213.

Machiavelli Vs Lao-Tzu

Niccolo Machiavelli (1469-1527) was a political philosopher as well as a  statesmen during the time of the Renaissance. He is most famous for writing his political  views in The Prince (1513), which has become an important part of modern political  philosophy. The Prince offers advice to the monarch in order to keep himself in power.  His recommendations are polices that discourage mass political activism by channeling  the people around him to use their energies for private pursuits. Machiavelli wanted to  influence the monarch by showing him that he can better keep his power by  judiciously using violence, understanding and respecting his subjects private property  and traditions, and by promoting materialistic prosperity. Machieavelli believed that a political life is not governed by a set of morals  or a religious absolute. The monarch can be excused sometimes for using acts of violence  or deception for a means, which would not be ethical if he were a civilian. The Prince  was written at the height of the Renaissance when intense political conflict between the  dominant cities and states of Florence, Milan, Venice, the Papacy, France, Spain as well  as the Holy Empire. This incendiary conflict ended in massive political intrigue, violence  and blackmail to which Machievelli concluded with a plea for unity in Italy as well as an  end to foreign involvement. The great differences between Niccolo Machieavelli and Chinese Taoist  Philosopher, Lao-Tzu, is their beliefs on how a government should be run. Machieavelli  refers to what a prince should have as he places a totalitarian government. He believed  governments should be very structured and controlled as well as powerful. Lao- Tz  belief is that one person cannot have total control and they should let everything run its  course. Machievelli argued in his book that, Discourses on the First Ten Books of Titus  Livius that a republic would, be strengthened by their conflicts if they engage in open  political participations and debates. Machieavelli’s, pragmatic view of ethics and politics is a Prince should  be more practical than moral. A prince must learn to be cunning and deceitful to maintain  his power. He believed it is more important for a prince to be feared than loved by his  people. This is in direct contrast to Lao-Tzu’s belief in living life with goodness and  respect to others. He did not write a guide to his views like Machieavelli, because he  wanted his philosophy to be a natural way a human being should live. He believed a  person’s behavior in his or her life should be influenced by their instincts and conscience. Lao-Tzu believed that humans as well as the universe are governed by  unseen outside forces. The key to one’s truth and freedom is simplicity. He  encouraged followers to seek out and to understand the laws of nature, to build up power  among themselves, as well as to utilize that power to lead their life with love without  force. The differences are even clear as how these philosophers are remembered. Machieavelli’s views of ethics and politics, lead people to misinterpret these views as to  describe anyone who deceptively manipulates people in an opportunistic way. I.E.:  Machieavellian. Lao-Tzu is said to have went off on water buffalo to the desert, saddened  by the evils of man. It is said that when he arrived at the gate of the Great Wall of China,  where he was persuaded by the gatekeeper to record his principals of philosophy. This   recording became the ancient Chinese text â€Å"Eighty-one sayings of the Tao-Te-Ching.† -Works Cited- http://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=oty2JfReC3cC&oi=fnd&pg=PR14&sig=XiQAr4hiJRUoIy5ZSvNRW_4fhXg&dq=%22Grint%22+%22Leadership:+Classical,+Contemporary,+and+Critical+Approaches%22+#PPR11,M1 Leadership: Classical, contemporary, and critical approaches By Keith Grint; Published 1997 Oxford University Press.                                                                                                                              

Peter Smythe vs Vincent Thomas Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Peter Smythe vs Vincent Thomas - Case Study Example The fall of the hammer in a traditional auction is complete when the auctioneer announces its completion by the fall of the hammer or in another customary manner—and until any such announcement is made any bidder may retract his or her bid. The equivalent of the fall of the hammer in an eBay auction is the automatic close of bidding at a fixed time and the generation of an eBay advice headed â€Å"won† appear to have been accepted by the parties to an eBay auction. An order for specific performance of the contract was appropriate because of two reasons: 1) the Wirraway was not at the time in flying condition, and 2) the plane was in a hangar owned by a third party. It was ruled that a binding contract was formed between the plaintiff3 and the defendant4 and that it should be specifically enforced.5 Further, the two parties would be given a chance to reach agreement on the precise nature of the agreement. McMuffins Ltd is a fast food company. Yesterday, before work had started, an argument arose between three kitchen hands: Tom, Dick, and Harry. Over the weekend, Tom had offered to sell his motorbike to Dick for $5000. Dick said this was far too much but he would pay $4000. Tom refused. Before Tom left for work this morning Dick phoned to say he would buy the motorbike for $5000 but Tom said he had already sold it to Harry for $4,500. It was not a good day for Dick: he was one of the six employees of McMuffins Ltd that buy a weekly lottery ticket, each contributing an equal amount of money. Every week the money is collected by Lotty, the office junior, who also buys the lottery ticket. The group has always agreed to share any winnings equally. Lotty discovered this morning that the lottery ticket has won $1,000,000, and tells the other members of the group that she intends to claim the money for herself and leave McMuffins Ltd. According to Tom, he has already sold the bike. If there is a bill of sale6 made out to Harry, the bike has technically already been sold.

Is Ham correct that the connection between science and naturalism is Assignment

Is Ham correct that the connection between science and naturalism is 'arbitrary' - Assignment Example Regardless, a theory that lacks a few of the criteria may still be scientific if it is accompanied by sufficient reasons. But if a theory lacks most or all of these criteria, it falls short of being scientific (Losse 137-149). The defining feature of all theories of science and their accompanying understanding is the capacity to make testable predictions, which then limits the room for error. The bearing and certainty of those estimations helps to determine how scientific theory will be useful in the future. By contrast, supernatural theory lacks any observable predictions, thus fails the minimum thresholds for scientific evidence in what enables prospective scientists to refrain from that particular line of (Losse 177). Supernatural causes advocated by Ham are based on predictions which are not reasonably certain for scientific testing, thus are also not useful. Losse said falsifiability of scientific criteria makes scientific theory more reliable than Ham’s supernatural causes, especially when applied in important predictions (178). Ham’s rigid, faith-based creationist philosophy is unacceptable as scientific because it does not obligates its members to explore various formulae to test its reliability overtime and or make important adjustments to it, hence the lack of evidence-based growth. And by being supported by several independent bodies of evidence, rather than one foundation, the scientific criteria outperform Ham’s supernatural theory which does not have any divergent criteria drawing similar conclusions about nature hence the its lack of its acceptability in science. The criteria also make scientific knowledge look consistent with past experimental outcomes, which lack in supernatural theory and thus, create the best platform for drawing accurate predictions of the future in the same way past theories have been made (Losse 107). By being correctable, scientific theory outperforms the rigid supernatural theory in the sense

The Legal Policy In The Gas And Oil Industry Essay

The Legal Policy In The Gas And Oil Industry - Essay Example All these forms of contract are been utilized for accomplishing the same purpose i.e. promoting the economic growth of oil and gas production and extraction with sustainable environmental effect. Especially mentioning, the above-stated contract agreements possess own advantages along with disadvantages. Malaysian oil and gas industry plays a key part in developing the economy of the nation through contributing 40% in the national revenues. The major issues that arise during the selection of contract in this regard include the share of the distribution of profit between the government and companies participating in the contractual agreement and the cost structure that the involved parties need to be accepted. It will be vital to mention that oil and gas industry plays a vital part in boosting the overall growth of the nations in the international scenario. Thus, the proper selection of a specific contractual agreement will not only assist the respective governments of the nations to e radicate the issues but also impact the overall growth of the economy at large. Besides, the prior reason for undertaking an effective contractual agreement in the oil and gas industry between countries and international oil companies is to utilize the reserves in an appropriate manner2. However, at certain times, the selected approach of the contract becomes complicated, which significantly leads towards rising disputes between the involved parties. Moreover, contractors need to follow varied industrial norms, environmental laws, international and comparative policies of different international environmental agencies. By taking into concern the international scenario, it can be inferred that the notion of sharing production and operational activities of oil and gas amongst states and companies by forming an efficient commercial enterprise was significantly developed during  the 1950s in Bolivia.

Ontology or the Study of Being Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Ontology or the Study of Being - Essay Example His emphasis was mainly on the language, which is used as the vehicle and stressed upon the importance of poetry in life, time and human existence. His argument is that while analyzing the worldhood of the world, it is not possible to do so without bringing Being-in-the-world into focus as the worldhood depends on mankind and Dasein remains in permanent focus while doing so. Heidegger has taken the philosophy as Phenomenological Ontology and was influenced by Husserl and took some of his 'phenomenological reduction'. Before his famous Die Kehre, he said we are involved in this world's affairs by developing 'the phenomenological attitude', and our consciousness could be analyzed by both detachment and involvement. Despite his veneration of Husserl, Heidegger wrote Being and Time as a strong criticism of phenomenology as detailed by Husserl. He started with questioning what being is and never stopped analyzing this theme throughout his illustrious career. He argued that western philoso phy is shallow for not considering the being, but only stating the obvious. He said the question of Being is a historical argument and this question of Being dominates his book. "Being has entered into the light. Being has arrived in a state of unconcealedness. But whether and how Being itself involves such unconcealedness, whether and how it manifests itself in, and as, metaphysics, remains obscure. Being in its revelatory essence, i. e. in its truth, is not recalled" he says in his Existence and Being. from Existentialism from Dostoyevsky to Sartre edited by Walter Kaufman. His argument was to understand the Being, we should first understand 'the human kind of being' which he coined as Dasein (Being-there) and this human being is adept in asking questions. According to his Dasein is 'uncanny', which also could be termed as 'not-at-home' as Being-in-the-world. One cannot help getting the feeling that Dasein world is populated by physical objects mainly because of the similarity in forms and behavior. He projected the relationship of one humanoid creature with another one similar to that of one with self. This means human beings relate to each other as they relate to themselves. He is of the opinion that humanoid creatures think of themselves as a complete entity and they are outside that entity. Self is seen by him as another humanoid creature.   "The entity which is 'other' has itself the same kind of Being as Dasein. Being with and towards Others, there is thus a relationship of Being from Dasein to Dasein. But it might be said that this relationship is already constitutive for one's own Dasein, which, in its own right, has an understanding of Being, and thus relates itself towards Dasein," (p.162). This means Being of Dasein has a preconceived necessity of Being-with-others because in simple words, Being of Dasein is another way of saying Being-in-the-world. Hence, themes and concepts of Dasein and the world are inter-related and belong to one another. A s the world inhabits other similarly formed and behaved humanoid creatures that are also part of Dasein in the same way and intensity as the self, Dasein can only be understood as related to the world and as related to other humanoid creatures. ".when material is put to use, we encounter its producer or supplier as one who 'serves' well or badly.

Should Scotland be independent Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Should Scotland be independent - Essay Example For the understanding of the phenomenon from every angle, let’s try to consider should Scotland be dependent or not by researching pros and cons of the question. To begin with it must be said that the Scottish referendum of 2014 has brightly demonstrated the whole picture of Scots’ unsteady views about their future. Numerous surveys are the evidence of such a position. The people tend to shift their opinions under the influence of this or that factors. Today they are for the independence or undetermined with decision, and tomorrow they can radically change it or accept any of sides. â€Å"For the independence camp it is in many ways a race against time: Over the last six months the momentum has shifted toward independence, but at least one-sixth of Scottish voters in recent polls have said they were undecided or refused to answer† (Erlanger, 2014). One of the rationales is weight of political leaders’ speeches for a particular result, namely: being within (the Unionists) or being without the United Kingdom (the Scottish National Party). The other reason of Scots’ uncertainty is absence of precise understanding of times to come under the new governing, or in other words, the disparity in successful life after the winning of independency. In practice, the latter serves as a great ground for the first reason causing the appearance of great many supporters of Scotland secession of the United Kingdom. But it is an extremely controversial matter whether they really want or need it. Naturally, there are positive and negative motives of Scots’ aspiration for independence. Well-known reasoning of independence supporters includes several points. First of all, it is a need of increase of Scottish participating in affairs relating solely Scotland, and decrease of England’s interference into them, for only the absolute Scottish Parliament outright familiar with amount problems of its country is capable of solving them. Now â€Å"It has

Patrol Operations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Patrol Operations - Essay Example This tool of law enforcement is poised to bring huge results for the interaction between law enforcement and its citizenry. As aforementioned among the most recent technologies available for security operations are body-worn-cameras (Manjoo 1). Body-worn cameras are small gadgets that are usually attached to the upper body of a security or police officers (Manjoo 1). Law enforcement agencies across nations are increasingly adopting the body-worn cameras. The resolution to adopt the use of body cameras is an addition of the use of dash-attached audio recorder and video cameras, which have been in use. The possible areas of wearing the camera include the head, shoulders neck, or chest. Some of the cameras are also hand held. The cameras are also fitted with microphones and are capable of recording the police officers’ daily work in both audio and picture (Goold 40). The proponents of usage of body cameras argue that the cameras they can hold police officers accountable for their actions (Manjoo 1). In addition, they can protect the police officers who might false accusation of wrongdoing (Goold 64). The body-cameras could also inspire police or security officers, who would recognize that the cameras are recording their actions, to behave in better and diligent ways (A Primer on Body-Worn Cameras for Law Enforcement). According to Manjoo (1), in New York City, a citys public advocate reported that outfitting the whole New York Police Department with the body cameras would cost about $33 million. The body cameras mostly cost $200 to $1,000 each depending on the type. However, in 2013, New York City paid $152 million because of claims of misconduct the police. Therefore, if these body cameras could help reduce the cost of those claims, then the gadgets would pay for or buy themselves. Some cameras are designed with enough battery life for a few hours of recording both audio and visual while others can last for as long as 12working hours

Letter to relative requesting financial assistance to start a retail Article

Letter to relative requesting financial assistance to start a retail store - Article Example We intend to separate ourselves from the competition by utilizing both a brick and mortar storefront at the mall as well as a web presence. Therefore, our customer base will not be limited to local clients, but we will deal with a potential worldwide clientele. Our market research has indicated that there is a high level of dissatisfaction among gift recipients as a result of the lack of high- quality customized gifts that are also affordable. Our intention is to fill the gap between the high-end customized gifts and the lackluster generic gift market. The Gift Basket Company offers these people an alternative, providing them memorable and magical gift baskets. For example, we use highly detailed surveys to prepare our baskets, in which the customer gives details about such things as favorite colors, foods, hobbies, interests and other items of interest that help us build the most appropriate gift basket. Daily employee relations create an enormous opportunity for corporate gift baskets. Companies are experiencing more and more needs for gifts: congratulatory gifts for new births or marriages, sympathy gifts for bereaved family members and even smaller items to welcome a new employee or give thanks to a longstanding employee. In addition, the clientele for corporate gifts is wide open.

Psychological persperctive in health and social care Essay Example for Free

Psychological persperctive in health and social care Essay The behaviourist perspective The behaviourist perspective is an idea that we can understand any type of behaviour by looking at what the person has learned. This includes personality traits such as shyness, confidence, optimism or pessimism. Behaviourist psychologists explain all human behaviour as resulting from experience. Two key psychologists are Pavlov and skinner, although these two theorists believed that different processes were involved, they both explained all types of behaviour as being the result of learning. This is everything from shyness to aggression and happiness to depression. Classical conditioning Classical conditioning was a theory developed by a Russian psychologist called Ivan Pavlov (1849-1936). He was working with dogs to investigate their digestive systems. The dogs were attached to a harness and Pavlov attached monitors to their stomachs and mouths so he could measure the rate of salivation. He noticed that the dog began to salivate when someone entered the room with a bowl of food, but before the dog had eaten the food. Since salivation is a reflex response, this seemed unusual. Pavlov decided that the dog was salivating because it had learned to associate the person with food. He then developed a theory. Food automatically led to the salivation response, since this response had not been learned, he called this an unconditioned response, which is a response that regularly occurs when an unconditioned stimulus is presented. As food automatically leads to this response, he called this unconditioned stimulus, which is a stimulus that regularly and consistently leads to an automatic response. Pavlov then presented food at the same time as ringing a bell (neutral stimulus), to see if the dog would learn to associate the bell with food. After several trials, the dog learned that the bell was associated with food and eventually it began to salivate only when the bell was rung and no food was presented. It therefore has learned the conditioned response (CR) of salivation to the conditioned stimulus (CS) of the bell. Operant conditioning This sort of learning is associated with the theories of Burrhus Frederic Skinner (1904 – 1990). Skinner was an American psychologist who worked  mostly with rats and pigeons, to learn some of the key principles of learning new behaviours. He used a very famous device, called a skinner box. Skinner famous device was a box which contained a lever which, when pressed, releases a food pellet into the box, thus reinforcing lever-pressing behaviour. When the rat is first placed in the box it will run around and sniff the various items in the box and at some point it will press the lever, releasing a food pellet. After a while of the repeated performed action the rat will learn this behaviour (pressing the lever) is automatically followed by the release of a food pellet (the consequence). Because the pellet is experienced as reinforcing (something the rat would like to have more of), this consequence increases the probability of the behaviour being repeated. There are two types of reinforcement: positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement. Skinner investigated negative reinforcement by running a very low electrical current throughout the floor of the Skinner box. The current can be de-activated if the rat pressed the lever. The behaviour of lever pressing was thus negatively reinforcing. For humans, this can be demonstrated by the example of using pain relief. For example, if you have aches and pains and you take a painkiller, which results in the aches and pains going away, you are negatively reinforced for taking a painkiller. Punishment occurs only when behaviour is followed by a consequence that is experienced as unpleasant. Skinner investigated this by giving the rat a small electric shock when the rat pressed the lever. The consequence of the lever pressing (the electric shock) was experienced as unpleasant, so the rat learned to stop pressing the lever. Social learning theory The effects of other individuals on behaviour There are many influences on our behaviour, for example peers, siblings, parents, television, media, sports personalities and other celebrities. Well according to social learning theory, role models are very important. While we may learn new behaviours from anyone, the likelihood of imitating behaviours is strongly influenced by the way we perceive the person performing the behaviour (the model). If we observe someone we admire behaving in a particular way, we may be more likely to imitate such behaviour. If, for example The effects of groups on behaviour Our behaviour is strongly influenced by the presence of others, however much we believe ourselves to be truly individuals in our beliefs and behaviour. Nowhere is this more clearly demonstrated than in the experiments conducted in the 1950’s by social psychologist Solomon Asch. He was interested in a concept called majority influence. This is when the presence of other people causes us to change our public behaviour or opinions because we do not want to stand out from the crowd (be different). We have a powerful desire to belong and will ‘go along’ with what others in our group say, think and do in order to FIT IN. This is what he did to test this idea. A group of six of the experimenter (people who were play-acting according to instructions) were joined by a naive participant (a genuine participant who knew nothing about the nature of the experiment) in a task that supposedly tested visual perception. The experimenter explained that the task involved stating whet her a target line. The effects of culture and society on behaviour The term culture refers to the shared values, norms, language, customs and practices of a group. Most of us tend to think of culture as being specific to different countries. It is important to understand how culture affects our behaviour in order to gain a full understanding of people we come across and those we work with. The self-fulfilling prophecy This part is an important concept in psychology that plays a big role on the way we behave towards others and expect them to behave towards us. If we believe ourselves to be worthy, pleasant and likeable then we will most definitely be polite and cheerful towards those we meet and this will create a favourable impression. In response to those who may come into contact with us view us favourably and behave in a positive way towards us, with the result that our own positive self-beliefs are confirmed. To put it another way, we are angry, full of resentment, believe the world is against us and more, then we are likely to behave in a more aggressive, confrontational or argumentative way, in which case that is how we will be viewed, which will confirm our views of ourselves and the world. Role theory Between role theory and the self-fulfilling prophecy there is a similarity, in that role theory comments that because we live within a particular culture, society and social group, we are influenced by other people. This influence helps lead us to taking up certain roles and trying to live up to the expectations that go with that role. Albert Bandura Social learning theory explains behaviour as the result of learning from people we are exposed to in our environment. We can also learn new behaviours from people we observe, either in real life or in the media. This is known as observational learning and this theory was developed by the American psychologist, Albert Bandura. The person we learn from is known as a role model, and the process of imitating is called modelling. However, we do not imitate all behaviour we observe and remember. Whether or not it is in our interests to imitate particular behaviour is influenced by characteristics of the model. If we see a model being punished for certain behaviour, we are less likely to imitate it than if we see him or her being positively reinforced. The psychodynamic approach The importance of the unconscious mind: Sigmund Freud Freud was one of the earliest thinkers to bring to public attention the idea that we are not always aware of all aspects of ourselves. He suggested that what we are aware of is represented in our conscious mind but many of our memories, feelings and past experiences are locked up in a part of our mind he called ‘unconscious’. We cannot access the contents of our unconscious, but they often ‘leak out’ in dreams and slips of the tongue. Freud believed that the conscious mind was like the tip of an iceberg – only a small part being available to awareness. Part of the unconscious that we can easily access he called the pre-conscious. This contains information not yet in consciousness but that can easily be retrieved (e.g. the name of your friends dog). The rest, well under the surface, consisted of the unconscious. Importance of early experiences The importance of early experience in determining later behaviours is clearly  illustrated by Freud’s developmental theory of psychosexual stages. He believed that we all go through several stages of psychosexual development. At every stage, the individual’s libido (energy) is focused on a part of the body that is particularly relevant at that stage. If the needs of the developing child are met at each stage, it moves on to the next developmental stage. If however, there is struggle or conflict or some unsatisfactory experience, the individual becomes ‘fixated’ (stuck) at this stage. This results in certain ways of being, or personality traits, which are carried through into adulthood and which can explain behaviour later in life. The earliest stage is the ‘oral stage’. The focus here is on the mouth and activities such as sucking, biting and licking. (You will probably have noticed that young babies seem to put everything in their mouths.) Freud believed that there could be two reasons for fixation. If the infant was weaned too early, it would feel forever under-gratified and unsatisfied and would develop into a pessimistic, sarcastic person. If, on the other hand, it was over- gratified (weaned too late) the individual would develop a gullible personality, naively trusting in others and with a tendency to ‘swallow anything’. This stage lasts from birth to roughly 18 months. If the infant successfully passes through the oral stage without becoming fixated, the next stage is the ‘anal stage’, which lasts from approximately one to three years. Here the libido is focused on aspects to do with potty training. If there is a battle with parents about potty training with the child feeling forced to use the potty before they are r eady, or feeling over – controlled in various areas, they may rebel by retaining their faeces: the child refuses to ‘go’, thus holding on to control and withholding satisfaction from the parent. This type of fixation is called ‘anally retentive’ and is associated with later personality characteristics such as obstinacy, miserliness and obsessive traits. The alternative scenario is that the child is not given enough boundaries over potty training so they take excessive pleasure in excretion and become a messy, creative, disorganised sort of person. During the ages of four to five the child passes through the ‘phallic stage’. Fixation at this stage is associated with anxiety and guilty feelings about sex and fear of castration for males. If this stage is not resolved, the theory suggests that a boy may become homosexual and a girl may become a lesbian. Freud thought these were  abnormal fixations; however most people today would not view them in this way. Between the ages of five to seven and the onset of puberty, the child enters the ‘latency stage’, which is not strictly speaking a developmental phase but a time when the focus is on s ocial pursuits such as sport, academic excellence and the development of friendships. The final psychosexual stage is the ‘genital stage’, which begins at puberty. Freud believed that the less fixated the individual has become during the earlier stages, the more easily this stage will be negotiated, resulting in the ability to form strong heterosexual relationships with an ability to be warm and loving as well as to receive love in a new, mature fashion. A second important feature of early experience is the development of ego defence mechanisms. The use of a defence mechanism allows us to block out events that threaten to overwhelm us. A final influence is that of the mind. Freud suggested that the mind (which he called the psyche) is divided into three dynamic parts. The id is a part of the mind which is totally unconscious and which exists at birth. It is focused on getting what it wants and consists of aggressive, sexual and loving instincts. It is the part of us that says ‘i want it now!’ The superego is formed as a result of socialisation and consists of all instructions, morals and values that are repeatedly enforced as we ar e growing up. It takes on the form of a conscience and also represents our view of our ideal self. The main role of the superego is to try to subdue the activity of the id. The ego tries to balance the demands of the id and the superego. It is the rational part of the mind, always seeking to do what is most helpful to the individual. Different behaviours can be understood by trying to infer which part of the psyche is dominant at any time. A person who is very submissive, guilty and always wanting to please may have a very strong superego. A person who is impulsive, careless of other people’s feelings, doesn’t think through the consequences of their actions and is perhaps inclined to aggression, either verbal or physical, probably has a dominant id. A person who can be submissive and assertive when necessary, who is bale to think about other people’s feelings but also consider and value their own needs, has probably got a strong enough ego to balance the demands of the id and the superego. They are likely to have quite a rational and realistic outlook on life. Erik Erikson Erik Erikson was a psychologist who agreed with much of Freud’s theory in so far as he thought that we developed through a series of stages. However, he thought that these continued throughout our lifetime and were essentially social in nature. He also believed that Freud put too much emphasis on our desire for individual gratification and not enough on our need to be accepted by society and lead a meaningful life. Erikson suggested that we move through a series of psychosocial crises with a different social focus at each stage. For example between birth and the age of one, the life crisis concerns developing trust or mistrust in self and others. The social focus at this stage is the mother. The humanistic perspective Human psychology looks at human experience from the viewpoint of the individual. It focuses on the idea of free will and the belief that we are all capable of making choices for ourselves. Two psychologists associated with this approach are Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers. Abraham Maslow Maslow (1908-1970) was an American psychologist who believed that we are all seeking to become the best that we can possibly can- spiritually, physically, emotionally and intellectually. He called this Self-actualisation. He constructed a theory known as the hierarchy of needs, in which he explained that every human being requires certain basic needs to be met before they can approach the next level. Maslow believed that until our basic psychological needs are met, we will focus all our energies on getting them met and not be able to progress further. When people are well-housed, well-fed and comfortable physically, we begin to focus on our emotional needs, like the need to belong and be loved and to feel self-esteem. When our lives are such that these needs are also met, we strive to self-actualise. As Maslow said ‘A musician must make music, an artist must paint, a poet must write, if that person is to be ultimately at peace with their self’. What a person can be, they must be. This need we call self-actualisation. Carl Rogers Rogers (1902-1987) was particularly interested in the concept of self. There are many aspects of the self but two are especially important here. Self-concept refers to the way in which we view ourselves. This includes  physical, biological attributes like being male or female, blonde or brunette, short or tall, as well as personality traits like being kind, humble, assertive and hard working. The self -concept is formed from an early age and young children internalise other people’s judgements of them, which then become a part of their self –concept. If a child is told their silly, naughty apart of self-concept will contain these aspects. Another way of looking at it is a child is praised, encouraged to succeed and told they are valued; they will have a positive self-concept and see themselves as someone who is worthwhile and competent. Rogers believed that we also hold a concept of self, called the ideal self. This holds a view of ourselves as we feel we should be an d as we would like to be. When there is a mismatch between our actual self and our ideal self we become troubled and unhappy. The cognitive/information processing perspective This psychological perspective has gained enormous ground since the 1960’s, when the influence of behaviourism began to happen. With the development of computers came the idea that brain activity was like the operation of a computer. A great deal of research had been devoted to understanding cognitive processes such as attention, memory, perception, information processing, problem solving, thought language and other aspects of cognition. A way to understand this perspective is it relates to health and social care, we are going to concentrate on just two theorists: Jean Piaget and George Kelly. Jean Piaget Jean Piaget (1896-1980) was a Swiss psychologist who initially worked on measuring intelligence. During his research he noticed children of the same age made the same mistakes in logic, however bright they were. He came to the conclusion that cognition develops through a series of stages, each new stage building on the previous one. George Kelly George Kelly (1905-1966) developed a unique psychological theory known as the psychology of Personal Constructs. He saw the individual as a scientist, making predictions about the future, testing them and, if necessary, revising them according to new evidence. A construct is a way of construing (interpreting and making sense of) reality and the environment. For example if an individual develops The biological perspective Maturational theory The theory of maturation holds that the effects of the environment are minimal. The child is born with a set of genetic instructions passed down from its parents, and its cognitive, physical and other developmental processes merely unfold over time, rather than being dependent upon the environment to mature. It is, in effect, a theory which states that development is due to nature not nurture. This is quite a contrast to the learning theory or humanistic theory, where the effects of nurture are paramount. Gesell’s theory of maturation Arnold Gesell (1880-1961) believed that development occurred according to a sequence of maturational processes. For example, development in the womb follows a fixed set of stages: the heart begins to form first, along with the rudimentary nervous system. Bones and muscles develop next and over time the organism develops into a fully functioning human being, ready to be born. As the child develops from birth onwards, its genes allow it to flower gradually into the person he or she is meant to be. The environment should provide support for this unfolding of talents, skills, personality and interests but the main thing driving this development is the maturational process. Genetic influences on behaviour Genes can affect behaviour in many ways. Some disorders, like Huntington’s disease, are caused by a single dominant gene, which either parent can pass on to their child. Others, like cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anaemia, are caused when both parents pass on the gene for the disorder. Disorders that occur regardless of the environmental influences, such as those listed above, are genetically determined disorders. This means that the individual who inherits the gene or genes is certain to develop the disorder, regardless of the environmental factors. An example of this is Huntington’s disease. This disorder usually begins to show when the individual is aged between 30 and 50 years. Symptoms of dementia appear and the individual is likely to die about 15 years after the onset. Some of the changes in  behaviour are listed below, though this list is not comprehensive: Hallucinations and delusions Severe confusion Progressive memory less Inappropriate speech; use of jargon or wrong words Personality changes including anxiety and depression, withdrawal from social interaction, decreased ability to care for oneself and inability to maintain employment. Disorders that are not genetically determined, but where an individual’s genes may leave them with a vulnerability to developing the disorder, are far more common. A classic way of measuring the contribution of genes to any type of behaviour is through twin studies. There are two types of twins. Monozygotic or identical, twins share 100 percent of their genetic material since they are formed from only one fertilised egg, which has divided into two. Dizygotic or (fraternal) twins share only 50 per cent of genetic material since they occur when two eggs are fertilised by different sperm at the same time. If, the reasoning goes, one of a pair of monozygotic twins has a disorder, it would be expected that, if genes are the only influence, the second twin must also have the disorder. The influence of the nervous and endocrine systems on behaviour The autonomic nervous system produces its effects through activation of nerve fibres throughout the nervous system, brain and body or by stimulating the release of hormones from the endocrine glands (such as the adrenal and pineal glands). Hormones are biochemical substances that are released into the bloodstream and have a profound effect on target organs and on behaviour. They are present in very small quantities and individual molecules have a very short life, so their effects quickly disappear if they are not secreted continuously. There are a large number of hormones including: Melatonin, which is released by the pineal gland and acts on the brainstem sleep mechanisms to help synchronise the phases of sleep and activity. Testosterone, which is released in the testicles and may influence aggressiveness. Oxytocin, which is released by the pituitary gland and stimulates milk production and female orgasms. Some hormones are released as a response to external stimuli. For example, the pineal gland responds to  reduced daylight by increasing production of melatonin. Other hormones follow a circadian rhythm, with one peak and one trough every 24 hours. (Circadian means ‘about a day’ and refers to a 24 hour rhythm). For instance, levels of cortisol rise about an hour before you wake up and contribute to your feelings of wakefulness or arousal.

Utilisation of Grasscutter for Household Protein Intake

Utilisation of Grasscutter for Household Protein Intake Abstract   Sustainability in Nigerian Agriculture with preference to grasscutter production was examined in this study. The study is considered necessary due to insufficient information on the subject, ineffective reforms embarked upon by government, individual and donor-sponsored animal production projects in the tropics at various levels and scale of production the stock that has little impact. Grasscutter is an herbivore and so can feed conveniently on some forages, crop residues (e.g. rice straw), agro-industrial by-product and kitchen leftovers. Some fodder species that can also be fed to the animals are Pennisetum purpureum (elephant grass) and Panicum maximum (guinea grass). It is concluded that grasscutter production which is suitable for backyard family production offers a great potential for increased food security, income generation, employment opportunities and above all, provision of high quality animal protein intake. INTRODUCTION Animal protein intake is dismally low in less-developed countries than in the developed countries. The Food and Agriculture and Organization (FAO) recommends a minimum of 70g of protein daily per caput, out of which at least 35g (50%) should come from animal protein, but the average Nigerian consumes 10g of protein with 3.2g of this amount from animal protein. Pathetically, Nigeria with population of about 140 million, the highest in Africa, has the highest number of under-five mortality. These deaths occur because of low protein intake. To bridge this gap therefore, all reasonable and practical options deserve thorough consideration. Micro-livestock such as rabbit, guinea pig, grasscutter, giant rat, iguana and pigeons have been suggested by Vietmeyer (1984) as rapid means of obtaining animal proteins. The grasscutter is the second biggest wild rodent after porcupine in Africa. About 40,000 tons grasscutter meat per year is consumed in West Africa of which only 0.2% is provided by d omesticated grasscutters. Its meat, said to resemble that of piglets is greatly appreciated and highly favoured in West and Central Africa (Adjanohoun, 1988). The grasscutter belongs to the mammalian order and family of Rodentia and Tyronomyidae, respectively and is genetically more closely related to the porcupine than to the rat. The expanded demand for grasscutter meat currently poses the greatest threat to its very genetic survival, although the species is currently classified as unthreatened according to the FAOs world watch list (FAO, 2000). The populations of wild grasscutters in West and Central African countries are declining due to over-hunting and destruction of their habitat. In order to ensure their sustainable existence and use, their domestication at this juncture is therefore innevitable,  given the fact that some success in domestication has been achieved in this region (Mensah, 1985). Physical Characteristics of grasscutter Grasscutters are strictly herbivores, and prefer mainly thick-stemmed grass species (Schrage and Yewadan, 1999). Grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus) also known as cane rat among some people is one of the best animals now domesticated in Nigeria as well as in other sub-Sahara part of Africa. With grasscutter farming, income generation from the initial establishment would continue to flourish because of its fast generation of income. The animal has many traditional names depending on the tribe. Among the Yorubas, it is known as Oya, while some people called it Obije, Nohi as well as Gafya. It is a heavy, compact and the largest African rodent after the porcupine (Hystrix Cristata). When fully grown, the body length varies between 42 and 58cm. its tail measure between 22cm and 25cm and standing height is between 23cm to 30cm. The average adult weighs about 3kg for female and 4.5kg for males making grasscutter to have an outstanding weight than average matured broiler with lesser capit al involvement. Breeds Although many varieties of grasscutter have been described, they belong to two different species: Smaller grasscutter (Thryonomys gregorianus), as described by Thomas (1894) which is smaller in size and may reach 8 kg and a body length of 50 cm and has a shorter tail. They are found in savannas in Cameroon, Central African Republic, Zaire, Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and southward to Rhodesia while Larger  grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus) Thomas, 1922 which is of greater size, weighs 9 kg or more and has a head-body length up to 60 cm, a rather long tail and spread from Senegal to South Africa (all countries of west, east, and southern Africa). Breeding and Reproduction Grasscutters are induced ovulators (Stier, et al. 1991; Adjanohoun, 1993; Addo, et al. 2001) and breed all year round (Asibey, 1974). Therefore no consideration was given to the time of mating. The female grasscutter is known as doe while the male is known as buck. Puberty in female is attained from 5 month and male from 7th month. The female should not be put to service until 6 month of age and live-weight of about 1.5kg while male can be used for first service from age of 8 months upwards at about 2kg. Some important factors that can affect the reproductive performance of grasscutter are nutrition, lighting regime, stress, and lack of water. The pregnancy or gestation period is 145-167 days with an average of about 150 days (5 months). The gestation period reduce with successive pregnancies. The grasscutter is capable of breeding two times a year. The litter size (number of young ones per birth) varies between 1-7 with an average litter of 4. The doe has no definite oestrus cycle. The incidence of post partum oestrus (i.e. occurrence of oestrus just after giving birth) suggests that the grasscutter can be mated immediately after parturition (giving birth). The recommended mating ratio is one male for every three to six females. MANAGEMENTAL PRACTICES Housing Before the purchase of grasscutter, a place to house them must have been provided. Under the  intensive system, grasscutter may be housed in a container, hutches or deep litter. However, house or building is required for grasscutter. Grasscutter buildings are built to protect the animals against rain, winds, theft, predators, and escape etc. Buildings (houses) should be located in clean and stress-free areas. The infrastructures consist of stable and pens equipped with cages and/ or floor hutches. Other stable and pen equipment indispensable to successful grasscutter husbandry in the intensive system of rearing include feed troughs/mangers, watering place and restraint cages Cane- rat housing should be located far from very noisy environment to avoid stress, should be far from bad odour to prevent illness, and should be close to the residence of the breeder to ensure security, close monitoring and supervision. There are two main types of cages Colony Cages: used for rearing grasscutter in groups and individual cage: used for rearing uncastrated adult male grasscutter and also a quarantine area for sick or injured grasscutters. Colony cages dimension: L * W * H : 2m * 1m * 0.4m. Entrance : L * W : 30cm * 25 cm. Two entrances on each side is recommended. Individual cages : Dimension :- L * W * H : 0.5m * 0.45m * 0.30m. Entrance :- L * W 18 *18 Feeding management Grasscutter are herbivorous animals whose source of food is basically 70 to 80 per cent from the forest. Their major food is Elephant or Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum). They also love to eat certain gramineous plant with thick succulent stalks such as Sugar cane (Saccharum spp), Guinea grass (Panicum maximum), Gamba grass (Andropogon gayanus), Congo grass  (Brachiaria ruziziensis) as well as dried leaf of Leucaena leucocephala i.e. hybrid tamarind. The animal also like Gliricidia sepium, herbaceous legumes like Stylo (Stylosanthes gracilis) and Pueraria phaseoloides. The root and pitch of oil and coconut palms, bark of the anacardium and fruits such as half ripen pawpaw, plantain, pineapple, mango etc are their delight. Food crops such as groundnut, rice, maize, grain legume, tubers like cassava, sweet potato etc also make part of their food. They can also be fed with formulated concentrates like pellet as well as other processed by-products like wheat bran, corn bran, groundnut, soya, oilseed, cotton seed cakes, brewer yeast, grain legume pods, brewers grains, maize and cobs, brewers yeast etc as feed supplements.Fresh formulated feed should be placed in the feeder every day. Irrespective of the kind of forage, grasscutters eat stalks before any other part, the next is the bark of twigs and finally some leaves. This eating habit causes wearing of the animals teeth which unfortunately leads to high forage wastage. The grasscutter does practise coprophagy, when it is hot, water intake is reduced, and when the outdoor temperature is low, the animal drinks much more. (Baptist and Mensah, 1986; Holzer 1986; Holzer et al. 1986; Adjanohoun 1988; Mensah et al. 1986; Mensah 2000). The reason for this rather unexpected behaviour is however not yet fully understood and should be a subjected for further research. Water Consumption: This is determined by an environmental factor (the quantity of water in the atmosphere) low temperature and less forage leads to high rate of water been consumed, and vice versa. HEALTH AND DISEASE MANAGEMENT Preventive measures In order to prevent grasscutter from diseases, the following principles must be adhered to strictly: Only healthy stock should be acquired. Grasscutter should not be raised together with other types of animals in the same building. Rats and wild birds are agents of diseases and should be kept out of the animal house. Adequate control of temperature, humidity and ventilation in the animal house should be maintained. Keep the house (within and outside) clean. Feeding and water troughs should be washed regularly. Restrict movement of visitors in and out of the house. Isolate any sick animal from the group. Any dead animal should be removed immediately. Feed nutritionally balanced diet. Observation and proper records can also be of help. Significant Diseases of Grasscutter Enterotoxaemia: This is caused by bacterium Clostridium perfrigens. The organism produces toxins which are absorbed into the circulatory system of grasscutter causing mortality. Vaccine against this condition is available. Antibiotics can be used for treatment. Coccidiosis: This is caused by organism of the Eimeria family. Symptom of the disease include  diarrhea and prostration. Drugs for treatment are available. Staphylococcaemia: This is caused by a bacterium, Staphylococcus aureus. Most of the signs of this disease are seen at post mortem but discharges from the nostrils and vagina could be seen. Antibiotics are also employed in its treatment. Pneumonia: This is caused by a bacterium, Diplococcus pneumonia and it is prevalent during the cold weather. Aspiration pneumonia could also occur through the inhalation of feed dust. Worm infestation and Ectoparasites like ticks can also affect grasscutter Influence of Grasscutter Production on Sustainable Agricultural Production in Nigeria Grasscutter can serve as a source of food or protein, as the meat of grasscutter can be compared favourably with those of domesticated livestock species. According to Olomu et al. (2003) grasscutter had the highest protein content and lowest fat of 22.7% and 4.2% respectively when compared with rabbit 21.0% and 6.5%; chicken 19.2% and 6.1% and pig with 15.1% CP and 31.0% fat . The meat is also preferred for its tenderness and taste. It can also serve as source of income and employment, as one can depend on grasscutter for his livelihood. In fact, grasscutter can provide job opportunities for both urban and rural dwellers who can be engaged in various aspects of grasscutter production like rearing, processing, transporting, cold storing, hutches building and marketing of grasscutter products. Pancreas of grasscutter is believed to have high concentration of insulin which is a good material in the pharmaceutical company for the local preparations in the treatment of diabetes. Recommendations Government, Non-Governmental agencies and religious bodies can help to organize training in grasscutter production in order to eradicate idleness and hopelessness in the country. Financial crises and crime rates can be reduced in the country when larger citizen especially the unemployed are self employed through grasscutter production. The government should establish a national grasscutter Program with the broad aim of boosting grasscutter production in Nigeria. Grasscutter keepers should also organize themselves into cooperatives where they can have access to some loans and subsidies. Marketing of grasscutter and their products need to be promoted to sustain the economic initiative of the producers. Unemployed youths can be motivated by government, Non-Governmental agencies and religious bodies by training them and making funds available to them. Conclusion Grasscutter production can provide impoverished urban population and the poor rural dwellers the opportunities to meet part of their total protein intake and earn additional income. The grasscutter can be a potential money-spinner if properly managed. In order to achieve this, government, Non-governmental agencies, academics, individuals and planners will have to prepare a well-coordinated action plan to promote grasscutter production.

Foils In Hamlet Essay -- essays research papers

Night and Day Many authors use foils to better illustrate the nature of the character. Foils are characters who compliment yet contrast the main character. With the use of foils the reader can get a better understanding of the main character through the dialogue of the foils. In Shakespeare’s Hamlet, we find Prince Hamlet foiled by many characters. Each foil revealing something different about Hamlet. One such foil in this play is undoubtedly Laertes, the son of Polonius. There are a few ways that Laertes mirrors Hamlets character, the revenge they both seek , the anger they both have, and they both mourn Ophelia’s death. Just as a foil can mirror a character, it can contrast it. Laertes seeks instant almost thoughtless revenge whereas Hamlet is a bit more cautious and needs further evidence. Both Hamlet and Laertes have a different relationship with Claudius, one is deceived by him and the other sees right through his deception. Both return to Denmark after the passing of King Hamle t, which is the first indication that Laertes will act as a major foil to Hamlet. The tie they share with Claudius is a perfect example of the contrasting ways of Hamlet and Laertes. Claudius is in one way or another responsible for every death in this play. With the death of King Hamlet and the accidental murder of Polonius, we find both Hamlet and Laertes seeking revenge. Hamlet is told by the Ghost that Claudius is responsible for King Hamlets death. Almost as if it were his noble duty, he plo...

Pricey Game or Home Entertainment? Essay -- Sports, Venues, Base Ball

Throughout the United States sports has taken the consumer captive, by providing them with entertainment and pleasure. Sporting venues continues to rob their loyal fans by boosting the prices of tickets, merchandise, food, and beverages. Recently over the summer, I went to see a baseball game being held at Dodgers Stadium and was horrified at the prices that I saw. My ticket alone was $40, at this price that put me just below the nosebleed section of the stadium. During the game I went to one of the vendors and was flabbergasted to see the price for a hot dog was $6.50 dollars, a drink was $3.75 and a side of fries for $4.25. Once I made my purchase I stood back and found myself feeling as if I had been cheated. The Dodgers made over $240 million in revenue in 2010, why would they want to raise the prices of the franchise? Dodger stadium can hold over fifty thousand people, but they are continuing to rob fans with these head scratching prices. With these increasing prices more and mo re people have begun to stay at their dwellings to enjoy the game on their HD TV. Most people would choose to stay home near their refrigerator and watch the next game seeing as they have a great view, comfortable seats, and free food. These prices are not only seen in baseball but also in other professional sport institutions. With the staggering decrease of the current economy, sports franchises need to realize the value of a dollar to its loyal fans, and the practicality to the average family looking for entertainment. Today the average cost of a baseball ticket is $19.85; compared to back in the 1950’s being that the average ticket price was $1.54. This price fluctuation is due to the demand of the sport as well as, â€Å"[media] focus, player salary ... ...g events, the impoverished and lower class will be left out of the running. With the lowering of the economic stand point the all American traditions are failing to keep up with these desperate times. In my opinion all sporting events have become commercial and media oriented, rather than just going to a game to have fun and to bond. In the past families would go every Sunday to a game because it was affordable, but at this day in time they cannot even attend one game. It makes one wonder what the future of the sporting world beholds for the future generations. Will sporting events become underground or will they slowly disappear? Will the world stop revolving around the constant money symbol? Being such an avid sports fan, as I am, I perceive the future of sports becoming business or corporate orientated rather than the all American pass time it was meant to be.

Lives Of Saints: Christinas Strength In Resisting Societys Demands :: essays research papers

Lives of Saints: Christina's Strength In Resisting Society's Demands As you grow older it is inevitable that you will change in many ways. As a matter of fact it is impossible to survive without the ability to adapt to situations and surroundings. This ability is acquired as you age, learn and experience life. It is a part of growing up and society demands that you adapt and conform to their mores and customs. It is always difficult to veer from the path of uniformity which society leads. Many times you are able to slip by unnoticed with a minor variance from this path. However, when someone decides to blatantly blaze their own trail, often society makes their further growth and development a difficult task. As a result the community only tolerates acquiescence and conformity. Like the character Cristina in Nino Ricci's novel Lives of the Saints, it is only the most tenacious that can resist caving in to the pressure. Often, this deviance can harm others, not just the dissident. Vittorio is continually badgered for the deeds his mother performed, and he is too innocent to realize that, her independence of spirit is the reason. As well, Cristina's father does not see past the cloud which has slowly been built up in Valle del Sole. The cloud which prevents most people from seeing how the failure to be an individual rules the town, and how anyone with the nerve to be unique is ostracized. Cristina's father's failure to understand this leads to the decline and eventually their total destruction of the family structure. In many ways, the story of the character Cristina in the novel is similar to the story of Saint Christina. They both endure considerable suffering for standing up for their beliefs. In both cases they have whole villages opposing them, and neither of them give in, thus proving how strong they are. In the end, Santa Christina and Cristina end up leaving behind these villages for a better existence. The villagers continuous attention to whatever Cristina does, prevents her from living her life as she would like. Cristina's only choice is to keep to herself and go about the tedious and repetitive housework she does day in and day out. This prevents any advance in her development and growth, she is left like a skipping record playing the same thing over and over, not making any Lives Of Saints: Christinas Strength In Resisting Societys Demands :: essays research papers Lives of Saints: Christina's Strength In Resisting Society's Demands As you grow older it is inevitable that you will change in many ways. As a matter of fact it is impossible to survive without the ability to adapt to situations and surroundings. This ability is acquired as you age, learn and experience life. It is a part of growing up and society demands that you adapt and conform to their mores and customs. It is always difficult to veer from the path of uniformity which society leads. Many times you are able to slip by unnoticed with a minor variance from this path. However, when someone decides to blatantly blaze their own trail, often society makes their further growth and development a difficult task. As a result the community only tolerates acquiescence and conformity. Like the character Cristina in Nino Ricci's novel Lives of the Saints, it is only the most tenacious that can resist caving in to the pressure. Often, this deviance can harm others, not just the dissident. Vittorio is continually badgered for the deeds his mother performed, and he is too innocent to realize that, her independence of spirit is the reason. As well, Cristina's father does not see past the cloud which has slowly been built up in Valle del Sole. The cloud which prevents most people from seeing how the failure to be an individual rules the town, and how anyone with the nerve to be unique is ostracized. Cristina's father's failure to understand this leads to the decline and eventually their total destruction of the family structure. In many ways, the story of the character Cristina in the novel is similar to the story of Saint Christina. They both endure considerable suffering for standing up for their beliefs. In both cases they have whole villages opposing them, and neither of them give in, thus proving how strong they are. In the end, Santa Christina and Cristina end up leaving behind these villages for a better existence. The villagers continuous attention to whatever Cristina does, prevents her from living her life as she would like. Cristina's only choice is to keep to herself and go about the tedious and repetitive housework she does day in and day out. This prevents any advance in her development and growth, she is left like a skipping record playing the same thing over and over, not making any

The Systematic Phonics Case Education Essay

It is apparent from the epoch of 80s and 90s where rational bookmans and instructors presented new influential thoughts sing instruction of English. The field of instruction of reading is a topic that is immensely researched and still under farther research. Harmonizing to Pearson ( 2002 ) , â€Å" Man-made phonics was the chief method of learning since the beginning of twentieth century, this type of learning comprises exercising of larning missive names, sounds of letters and after so intermixing of these † ( pg, 1 ) . As the twentieth century progressed, it brought more extremist alterations of attack. Smith ( 1971 ) focused on the country sing the development of the capableness to read. Harmonizing to him, the reading has something that an person learned to make instead than something an person was taught. Man-made phonics is non a new of learning reading, in fact, its function of being outstanding and popular instruction has been an unintended result of the whole linguist ic communication acceptance attacks in British schools. Harmonizing to Rutter ( 2006 ) , every bit far as man-made phonics is concerned the rating of research has to be set long term and it needs to be made certain that kids with larning troubles should be assisted with different ways in order to do difference. Stuart ( 2006 ) emphasized that new options has to be seek so that recommendations on national degree could be made, Stuart made this suggestion to Rise â€Å" the current research grounds is non sufficient for leting reliable judgements of the effectivity of implementing different attacks to systematic structured phonics learning † ( Stuart, 2006 ; p11 ) .Systematic phonics CaseAmerican National Reading Panel ( NRP ) , in footings of research grounds and instruction of reading related inquiries, was amongst the critical subscribers who reported in learning kids in English reading ( NICHD, 2000 ) . The study consisted of inquiries sing the early literacy such as ‘Does systematic phonics direction aid kids learn to read more efficaciously than non systematic phonics direction or direction learning no phonics? ‘ ( P92 ) . ‘Are some specific phonics programmes more effectual than others? ( P93 ) . The decision from these inquiries was that ‘specific systematic phonics programmes are all significantly more effectual than non-phonics programmes ; nevertheless, they do non look to differ significantly from each other in their effectivity although more grounds is needed to verify the dependability of consequence sizes for each programme ‘ ( NICHD, 2000, pg93 ) . In another case, a comprehensive instruction of reading attacks research was commissioned by England ‘s Department for Education and Skills ( DfES ) in order to polish the NRP methodological analysis by bring forthing a randomised controlled tests ( RCT ) tests. Research workers in their work concluded that grounds has been seen in RCT surveies which could turn out the effectivity of one signifier of systematic phonics compared with that of other ( Torgerson et al, 2006 ) . Rutter ( 2006 ) besides commented that the of import facet of determination is that RCTs are one signifier of optimum research conditions. The existent message that is apparent from the meta-analysis, carried out by NRP and its limitation to RCTs, is the thought of importance of literacy acquisition every bit far as systematic instruction of phonics is concerned ( Torgerson et al, 2006 ) . Rose ( 2006 ) besides agreed with this decision by saying that â€Å" the importance of systematic phonic work is huge and could be more effectual if incorporated with man-made attack, after looking at its grounds which is wide-ranging † ( Rose, 2006, p20 ) . However he emphasizes that regardless of commonalty amidst systematic phonics and man-made phonics, it is therefore the man-made phonics which can offer much better class to going skilled readers for early scholars ( p19 ) .Man-made phonics instanceTwo surveies were reported by Johnston and Watson ( 2004 ) , in which the 2nd experiment was carried out before the first one and is of greater importance since it is related to intercession. This intercession varied from normal to extra schoolroom tuition get downing six hebdomads after school entry. The excess preparation kept on traveling for 10 hebdomads holding 2 categories per hebdomad wholly consisted of 114 printed words. The one group was taught 2 letters per hebdomad by agencies of assorted games played where kids matched images and words by merely pulling their attending to initial w ord sounds and letters of those sounds while other group was taught in all places of the words such as enhanced acquisition and blending of the missive sounds in all places, while being taught 2 letters per hebdomad every bit good ( Johnston and Watson, 2004, p347 ) . What writers concluded was that the group with man-made phonics were far much better in footings of reading and spelling every bit compared to analytic phonics group and therefore, the man-made phonics proved to be effectual attack to learning spelling, reading phonemic consciousness as comparison to analytics phonics ( Johnston and Watson, 2004 ) . Rose ( 2006 ) besides stresses that man-made phonics gives more indispensable accomplishments that allows the bulk of students to read and compose in front of their chronological age. Harmonizing to her, the 20 per centum pupils who have jobs with literacy still have better foundation of the reading rudimentss and merely necessitate excess clip and engagement.Pearson ‘s FindingssPearson ( 2003 ) became portion of fact-finding programme to derive some penetrations of the kids sing their reading position, their advancement every bit good as things that were their facets of success. During the 6 month period, she met the student twice, questioning the kids for about 30 proceedingss. Children were assured of their confidentiality in order to garner honorable responses so that school can improvize on its judicial admission in the coming academic old ages. She conducted semi-structured interviews from the students, and to assist them she used a ocular prompt based on Kelly ‘s attack ( Leadbetter et al, 1999 ) . The thought she got from both interviews was related to the public presentation e.g. both the gender expressed that they stumble when they read out loud and that they do n't wish reading in the schoolroom and maintain on spellings make them bury what to read. When the students ‘ position was asked sing the good readers, they commented that the good reader read louder and faster and that the difference between good reader and bad reader is that, the good reader makes the hapless book sound good while bad readers makes a good book sound drilling. Hence the result was that good readers have much better frequence every bit good as have much better reading. These positions of students were seen apparent even after nine months despite of the hint that their thoughts of literacy in the secondary school were developing. Few students continued to the thought that there reading is affected when they get prep and that reading is largely non the portion of their prep. Therefore the basic f eeling of kids sing reading can be confusing and if concepts of kids ‘s reading are to develop helpfully so there should be a strategic program for this. Assurance is another factor act uponing the public presentation degree Fahrenheit reading, less assurance can demo apparent diminution in their reading public presentation. Persistent and on-going encouragement of students in their reading can promote their public presentation and there are staff members holding peculiar accomplishments, they can portion the same accomplishment with other staff members to assist pupil improvise. Harmonizing to Pearson ( 2003 ) , the influential function of household is besides imperative in the procedure of reading. In her interviews with kids, she found out that students appreciated transporting out reading with person they knew although this chance was non gettable all the clip. Families promoting the privation of student to hold reading spouse might assist them in come oning and therefore will get down to hold more acute involvement in reading and may purchase books of their ain involvement for their reading calling. In footings of feedback, due to the deficiency of instruments used there were no specific standards for students ‘ thought of advancement as compared to prove consequences. However, at primary instruction phase, kids are really competent to track the advancement they made by agencies of utilizing information like coloring material they are on, the groups they are working in and or the degree with which they are asked to read. Though, this sort of system was recognized to be least available at the phase of secondary school instruction. Introducing wide stairss at the secondary degree may let the kids to track and place the advancement they have made in reading efficaciously. Hence, the critical phase for schools to ease or detain students ‘ accommodation is the period of passage that includes the Year seven. Supporting the reading procedure, hiking the assurance degrees, influential function of household and the students ‘ feedback are the most effectual ingredients in developing literacy accomplishments for both primary and secondary stage of the school.DecisionThe scope to which instruction of reading should do the stuff appropriate to be taught has been still in the Centre of statements sing reading teaching method. There is disagreement traveling on sing the all right ways to poising work on whole texts with sub-word-level work. One manner to attach man-made phonics learning firmly in an redolent context is to straight associate it to pupil ‘s books and other complete texts. The Rose Report has by now started to hold a consecutive influence on national educational policy in the United Kingdom since harmonizing to the study, the inst ructors and trainee instructors should be required to learn reading through man-made phonics foremost and fast. The interviews conducted by Sue Pearson gave two factors that encouraged the schools in order to give serious consideration to the findings, foremost was the honest responses from the students since they gave positive free of vacillation response and did n't felt forced sing their reading advancement. Second the students took engagement really earnestly. The interviews conducted gave wide scope of future considerations to schools since students shared their likes and disfavors in the reading advancement. Majority of them seem to hold better advancement in reading when they were motivated and acquiring aid from household or person they wished to read with. The information provided by the interview may play a cardinal function in the secondary school in footings of be aftering a proper focal point on the literacy and heightening student ‘s accomplishments. Hence the research of Sue Pearson consequently, discovered student ‘s aspirations, both in footings of short-run and lo ng-run every bit far as instruction of reading is concerned and will be an on-going aid for instructors in the chance.

The poems I, Too and The Negro Speaks of Rivers by Langston Hughes Compare & Contrast

Have you ever read a poem that cached your eye? Ever wondered how that poem is similar to others or different? Perhaps you read a poem about animals, the economy or someone’s feelings. The poems I, Too and The Negro Speaks of Rivers by Langston Hughes, have many important similarities and differences. One could have been when he was young and the other when he was older. He describes what he’s seen and done in The Negro Speaks of Rivers. In the poem I, Too, he describes what he wants to do. In both of these poems they cross a point where it is noticeable what they have in common. Both have very strong views, along with the positive attitudes that he has towards inequality and discrimination. He attempts to get his voice out so everyone can see what he really wants to say. Also, they have many differences with the things he has done. There are many differences between I, Too and The Negro Speaks of Rivers. In I, Too Hughes expresses more internal than external and he speaks about himself more than speaking about others around him. Secondly, he describes racism and the way he is unequally treated. They don’t treat him fairly and he has challenges to over come. Therefore, he opens up to what he did and is going to do. He also wants people to notice him more. Hughes, wants to be visible to others, not invisible. Americans should be treated the same and that’s what he says he wants to be treated, the same as others, because he too is American. His tone is surprisingly joyful, hopeful and confident. His feelings as well as his being, are important. He is, he isn’t ashamed of who he is and tries to explain who he is and the actions he wants to take. He wants a change in his life and will no longer put up with the situation he is in. Another difference between the two poems is that in The Negro Speaks of Rivers, he is expressing more of an external concerned vs. an internal manner. However, he speaks more about beauty, nature and the world and describes the things he’s seen and wants to see. Hughes, wants to explore and travel the world. He wants to see the things around him. Next, the poet describes the different things he has seen and the places where he has gone. He, therefore expresses how beautiful the world can be if one goes out an explores; this shows he is more free than before. Hughes, takes on a serious tone and the poem is more formal. Time has passed when he wrote this poem according too, the places and events he has seen with Abe Lincoln and slavery. Hughes, describes the things that have occurred during the time of his life and him seeing everything. There are some similarities between the two poems, I, Too and The Negro Speaks of Rivers. For example, they both talk about the abolishment of slavery. Everyone has the right to be treated equally. The world can be cruel to everyone but everyone has something to look forward to and live life happily. In both poems, he expresses how in both situations he had obstacles to over come and how the world can come to a change. He had both strong and positive words to express in both poems. According to his poem I, Too â€Å"My soul has grown deep like the rivers† he says his soul hasn’t stopped, he continues to fight for what he really wants and he is beautiful no matter what. He also states, â€Å"Besides, They'll see how beautiful I am and be ashamed† he says he’s beautiful inside and out. He wants to show everyone who he really is and says he is both strong and confident. Hughes, is no longer the same man as he was before as he expresses in the line â€Å"bathed in the Euphrates. † He expresses, the lives of African Americans and how they are being treated during that time. In conclusion, although both have many differences, they also have many things in common. Both poems have very strong views and ways to express his feelings. He also had positive views towards both of the poems to get his voice out so everyone can hear and see what he really wants to say. He expresses the obstacles he has done and wants to do with the challenges he is going to face. In both poem he abolishes slavery and express the way they wanted slavery to be vanished. In both of these poems they cross a point where it is noticeable what they have in common. He describes what African Americans really go through and what they really feel. They came to America for an opportunity not for slavery. As time passed, things had changed along with himself and the world. He did an amazing job to express himself with his writing to get his point across with both poems.

Physical activity for children Essay

Physical Activity for Children This essay will explore the areas of children’s development. The age groups which will be discussed within it are children from the ages of two too six years of age and children from the age of six too eleven years of age. The areas of development which will be covered are physical, intellectual, skill and psychological. The author will then conclude by making reference to the effect on physical activity for children and why it can influence them for the rest of their lives. Physical development Children between two and six years have slow and steady gains in height and weight, especially in the legs which account for 66% of their total increase in height. Females tend to have growth spurts two years before males, but when males have spurts they have them for a longer period of time developing heavier bones and stringier muscles as well. Between the ages of six and eleven the average children’s legs continue to grow very quickly while the head will be disproportionately large, the bones also tend to increase in length and density, gradually as they grow towards adolescence. Intellectual development Children between the ages of two and six years tend to be egocentric and selfish and don’t consider other people’s feelings. They also tend to do something quickly even if it involves hurting another child’s feelings, they will not consider the consequences until after they have done it. At this age children also find it difficult to learn from experience so they could make the same mistakes over and over again. Time and place could also be a confusion at this age and not having a complete understanding of your surroundings. From the ages of six to eleven the child can start to learn from experience although, they still have a tendency to do something without thinking about it. When the child reaches about seven or eight years they will start to understand that time goes by at a uniform speed and can perhaps arrange plans from day to day, but the past and the future still remain a mystery to them. Skill development Skill development in a child between the age of two and six is very basic, the early on stage of the physical development, This is when they will be learning skills like running, jumping, balancing and throwing. Girls tend to have more skill when it comes to co-ordination, things like hopping and skipping but boys are usually better when it comes to running, jumping or throwing, which is why boys mostly play sports like football and rugby and girls are mostly into gymnastics and dancing. From the ages of six to eleven years children’s ball skills can also be developed, this could involve dribbling the ball using their feet or catching it with their hands. It is in this age group that the child will play different kinds of sports and will eventually decide what sport they are suited to. Psychological development The psychological development in a child between two and six years old includes them imitating other children, if another child does something they will feel that they have to do it as well. Other children also start to become more important to them as they will form groups, they will also compare each mostly to see who the best is. They also still have to be told what to do at this age. From the age of six to eleven friends start to become a lot more important and can play a crucial role within their lives influencing their attitudes, beliefs and behaviour, they may also want to take part in a certain sport or activity just because their friend does it. In this age group they will also start listening to other people’s points of view and decide whether they agree with it or not. They will also start to understand working as part of a team and how it is important when difficult situations may occur within their life. Douglas P (2013) states that â€Å"exercise is paramount in the development of today’s children† This true statement emphasises that children can use physical activity to develop each of the areas, physical, intellectual, physiological and skill level, giving them a better way of life. This will also keep them fit and healthy decreasing the risk of things like illnesses or obesity.

Brick and Mortat vs. Online Shopping Essay

Everyone has to shop one day for something. Individuals have the option to shop in the store or online, but it will depend on the person’s to how he/ she would like to purchase products. Article One from CNN I Report by More Life March 2009 Bricks and Mortar vs. Online Shopping Article Two from Ezine Article by Gary Palmer 2012 Comparing Online to Brick and Mortar Shopping There are times that a person is unable to physically go to a store to buy items. The convenience of shopping at home benefits both the consumer and the company. The company would not suffer in profit, if a customer is unable to leave home or is stuck at work. Providing customers with the option online keeps the customer shopping and the stores profiting. Provide customers with easy payment options online and at a brick-and-mortar, shop offers shoppers the flexibility to shop. No matter if you shop from home or in the store, you have the option of a using credit, debit cards, or a check for payment. There are not many people who carry cash, so having this option is a great convenience. Convenience and flexibility in shopping is the key to a happy customer. Now days, individuals can purchase medicine and food online. There are many mail-order pharmacies that will fill and re-fill prescriptions and mail to the patient’s home. Surprisingly, there are online grocery stores, such as Peapod and Swans, where shoppers can choose their items online and have their groceries shipped to the house. Most grocers will charge a fee to delivery, but this is another convenience. The problem with this is that the company may lose out on the extra profit made, because an actual shopper in the store will browse the store and pick up extra items. Brick-and-Mortar shopping allows consumers to feel, touch, and try on items before purchasing. According to the article by CNN â€Å"I Report†, mentions how the shopping has shifted from shopping for cars online. The bad part of the situation is that you cannot feel or touch the item before buying. The article also talks about return policies. If a shopper buys an item and it does not fit or is not the right color, the individual ends up being put out because h e/she needs to ship something back, may have to spend more to ship and items back, and loses valuable time  returning items that were not quite, what he/she expected. Return policies have flaws depending on if it is mail-order or in the store purchase. Purchasing something in the store allows for on-demand return, money back or store credit. You can even exchange for another item or a different size. Returning in the mail, could lead to some headaches with the return. Repacking, sometimes paying a return fee and getting to a shipper, then waiting on the reimbursement can be a little time consuming. In both ways of shopping, items can be returned, but for a price, whether it money or time. Overall the internet is there for the convenience of people. According to the article, â€Å"Palmer 20120†mentions talks about low overhead and there no need to use display space or storage cost. The bricks to Mortar stores, there are all type expenses from lighting, heating and air conditioning and gas usage. Also, there are maintenance and warehousing cost, to cut out shrinkage, where the bricks to mortar do not have that worry. The online tend to specialize in hard to find items not just only regular items. The retailers for brick to mortar can only house local on-demand items. Online stores can go from national markets to international markets for hard to find items. The convenience shopping online it is in the comfort of your home or wherever you can get the internet service. Once you complete your shopping, your shipping order can go to your home, office or wherever your requested it to be delivered. There are times that you might have to pay for shipping and other times the shipping is free, depending on the special discount that might be going on that companies use to lore people to their website. I personally love online shopping for myself because there are times that I cannot find what I want in the store. Shopping online gives me the opportunity to look and compare different items all at once. Also there are stores that only carry certain sizes online. Recently, coupons have become more popular online. According to the Consumer Report survey, Warehouses store online shopping for example BJ Sam’s and Costco Clubs. Membership they are not free rewards member who spend a $100 capped purchases, there are over 1000 locations. Check their return policies; BJ has 30 days where Costco return policies 90 days where Sam Clubs, 100 % guarantee in merchandise. Sam Clubs and Costco has the same return, polices, where BJ is for less liberal. Coupon BJ accept only where manufacturers coupon BJ has 24 hours feature sale online promotion deals.  Sam Clubs discount are deeper with online auctions for members only y bids starting at 1.00. The bottom line shopping at warehouse it down to the individual preference. According to the survey, the big box stores are top ranking is Costco by a narrow margin. In conclusion, when times are challenging with schedules, there still a distinct advantage held by the brick and mortar store, but the gap closing. Many people have lost their jobs due to the internet and advance technology. Household budgets are lower due to the economy, so buyers look for deals with online shopping and it is always open. Some people prefer not to shop online due to the security of their information.