Religious beliefs Essay Example for Free

Religious beliefs Essay Humans have been, for ages, found themselves being challenged to do what is just and right. However, this idealism is often created out of confirming with one’s society. Each society has its own culture, principles, traditions, politics and religious beliefs. One’s act of good deed may be considered the opposite in the eyes of a person foreign to his culture. Confirming with the society’s norm had been considered a conflict to a person’s decision-making. One person may want to speak out his mind on such controversial issue but kept mum to avoid being antagonized by his peers. The public media and press became the gladiator’s arena between freedom of expression versus tact according to society. Raising one’s voice that opposed the society’s mentality is often discouraged due to gaining nothing but people’s ire. But not saying anything at all is also considered as moral cowardice- it produced same negative results as those of irresponsible communication. This essay would like to persuade its readers or listeners that voicing unpopular ideas can make a difference in the world. To quote as famous statement from the past, ‘The right way is not always the popular and easy way. Standing for right when is unpopular is a true test of moral character’’( One historical example of positive results from expressing one’s voice is found in Japan. Japanese politics had been exclusive only to men for centuries until around 1920’s. The 1920’s had been the era of revolutionary reforms that greatly overshadowed the older conservative laws under the Japanese government. With reforms being entertained to be made on the Japanese constitution, two of the most highlighted changes are the women’s suffrage and political inclusion. One notable woman who campaigned for the women’s rights is Kato Shidzue. She is the first woman to be elected in the Diet and famously assisted Margaret Sanger, a fellow feminist, in promoting birth control to Japan. It was a period where in a transition is still undergoing, from conservative upbringing to a much more liberal lifestyle. Being a feminist brought Shidzue anger from most men specifically the Japanese military. This resulted of her being arrested on 1937 for opposing to the ruling of producing as many children as possible. Yet, her perseverance of expressing her principles and fighting for equality served as one of the founding blocks of just treatment of both genders (Hopper, 2004). Another example would be Martin Luther King Jr. , the famous civil rights activist who campaign to end the racial segregation and discrimination. Despite the strong dominance of the white supremacists around that time, King took action through organized and peaceful means. He was a firm believer that violence was not the answer to the problem and knew that with this tactic it would garner the public’s attention more compared to the former. On that fateful day on the year 1963, his speech entitled I Have a Dream was the most pivotal moment during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. With genius use of rhetoric along with fiery passion, King called for his country to acknowledge racial equality and to end discrimination of color. His life was threatened several times due to his message of bringing equality for the ‘black people’. To this day, no single American had forgotten the I Have A Dream speech of this brave believer of what is right and just for all people (Kirk et al, 2007). History repeats itself as someone quoted from the past. To this day, this saying still rings true. Moral cowardice does have repercussions if people remain passive in a long period of time. It takes a lot of courage to stand up for one’s belief so it is reasonable if not all would be eager to clash with society’s norms. The consequences of this inaction would usually end up regrettable and horrifying. The Holocaust is one fine example. At first, the Jews were ridiculed and discriminated in Germany. No one tried to question this action for fear of receiving the Germans’ wrath. The Aryan race factor also fueled the fire which led to antagonism to both races. It was already too late as the war finally occurred; Nazis ordered a systematic genocide of all European Jews that now famously called the Holocaust. Over 17 million casualties resulted from the state-ordered annihilation (Niewyk; Nicosia, 2000). Another example would be the Martial Law in the Philippines during the 1970’s. President Ferdinand Marcos held the presidential seat for almost twenty years, ruling the country with an iron fist. For several years, only few dared to stand up against the Marcos’ regime and question their intentions on proclaiming Martial Law. The Filipinos suffered the continuous wreckage of its economy and the severe corruption of the said government. If it wasn’t for Benigno Aquino Sr. ’s assassination, the people would never be motivated to fight for their rights and wish for a democratic government (Ackerman; Duvall, 2001). A pen is mightier than a sword is not message to be taken lightly. Speaking out one’s mind has the power to motivate people to either take action or change their opinions. No matter how unpopular an idea is to the society, what mattered is the courage to stand up for one’s principles. Martin Luther King Jr. and Kato Shidzue proved that even with several obstacles barricaded in front of anyone, one should always defend what is just. As long as someone listened, there will always be people who will be supporting the idea. Moral cowardice maybe a norm for the most people around, but historical events such as the Holocaust and the Philippines’ Martial Law proved that staying tight-lipped would not guarantee’s a person’s safety. References: Helen M. Hopper, Kato Shidzue : a Japanese feminist (New York: Pearson Longman, 2004). Kirk, John A. , ed. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement: Controversies and Debates (2007). 224 pp. Niewyk, Donald L. and Nicosia, Francis R. The Columbia Guide to the Holocaust, Columbia University Press, 2000, pp. 45-52. Peter Ackerman; Jack DuVall (2001), A force more powerful: a century of nonviolent conflict, Macmillan, p. 384

Effective Communication in Midwifery

Effective Communication in Midwifery A discussion on how the midwife demonstrates her professional accountability through effective communication, including  an awareness of factors, which may contribute to poor communication.   Introduction The Nursing Midwifery Council (2004a, p. 17) in addressing the responsibilities and sphere of practice for midwives under Rule number 6 of their â€Å"Midwives rules and standards† brings forth the importance of communication by stating that midwives â€Å"Should work in partnership with the woman and her family† and â€Å"Should enable the woman to make decisions about her care based upon her individual needs, by discussing matters fully with her†. Rule number 6 adds that the midwife also â€Å"Should respect the woman’s right to refuse any advice given† (Nursing Midwifery Council, 2004a, p. 17). In furthering the roll of effective communication, Rule 7 under â€Å"Administration of medicines† as put forth by the Nursing Midwifery Council (2004a, p. 19) advises that â€Å"A midwife must respect the right of individuals to self-administer substances of their choice†. The preceding specifications have been brought forth as they help to set the foundational context for this examination, that seek to explore how the midwife demonstrates her professional accountability through effective communication, including an awareness of factors, which may contribute to poor communication. The Nursing Midwifery Council (2008a) under a document titled â€Å"The Code: Standards of conduct, performance and ethics for nurses and midwives† begins its document by stating that â€Å"The people in your care must be able to trust you with their health and well-being†, and that in order for nurses and midwives â€Å"To justify that thrust †¦Ã¢â‚¬  they need to be able to conduct effective communication in a broad sphere of activities and actions. In elaborating upon the foregoing â€Å"The Code† adds that midwives need to â€Å"be open and honest† along with acting with integrity (Nursing Midwifery Council, 2008a). The preceding means that they must and are accountable for their actions, means that accordingly that they must â€Å"†¦ treat people as individuals †¦Ã¢â‚¬  respecting their dignity, as well as acting â€Å"†¦ as an advocate for those in †¦Ã¢â‚¬  their care, aiding and assisting them in accessing â€Å"â⠂¬ ¦ relevant health and social care, information and support† (Nursing Midwifery Council, 2008a). The importance of effective communication is further underscored in the dictates of â€Å"The Code† that states midwives must â€Å"Respect people’s confidentiality†, mandating that midwifes need to respect their patient’s â€Å"†¦ right to confidentiality†, informing them as to the â€Å"†¦ how and why information is shared †¦Ã¢â‚¬  among those providing for their care, and importantly, that midwifes â€Å"†¦ must disclose information †¦ (if they) †¦ believe someone may be at risk of harm †¦Ã¢â‚¬  in accordance with the law (Nursing Midwifery Council, 2008a). The foregoing represents rules of ethics as well as conduct that provide the foundational understandings for the conduct of midwives. Importantly, the underpinning of the relationship between midwives and patients reside in collaboration. That communication means listening to their patients, along with responding â€Å"†¦ to their concerns and preferences†, and the support of their patients â€Å"†¦ in caring for themselves to improve and maintain their health† (Nursing Midwifery Council, 2008a). The critical facet of effective and ongoing communication and trust resides in the trust between patients and midwives, as this is the foundation of care. That foundation includes the respect as well as recognition of â€Å"†¦ the contribution that people make to their own care and well-being†, and sharing information, conversation and professional advice in a manner their patients can understand (Nursing Midwifery Council, 2008a). The preceding means the meeting of language as well as communication needs, along with gaining consent before beginning any treatment or care programs to ensure patients are absolutely clear on what such entails (Nursing Midwifery Council, 2008a). The preceding means that the patient’s right to either accept or decline care and or treatment is inherent in their rights, along with their being fully informed as well as involved in decisions as such relate to their care and treatment (Nursing Midwifery Council, 2008a). Standards Effective communication and accountability in the conduct of duties as a midwife includes their relationship with their supervisors as well as doctors, hospitals and other staff, organisations. The foregoing was detailed in another document from the Nursing Midwifery Council (2007) titled â€Å"Standards for the supervised practice of midwives† whereby the important of communication and professional practice means that midwives need to maintain a communicative relationship with their supervisors and the aforementioned support staff to further their own development. In addition, midwifes need to be able to honestly evaluate their own performance to shore up areas that they are either weak or not proficient in (Nursing Midwifery Council, 2007). Communication goes to the heart of delivering effective care, as the patient needs to develop an ongoing rapport, and advise the midwife of all facets connected with their care ‘Prep’ stands for ‘post-registration education and practice’ that represents standards as well as guidance in the providing of care and practice that maintains high levels (Nursing Midwifery Council, 2008b). Under the preceding, nurses and midwives are required to record continuing professional development, in compliance with standards and practice (Nursing Midwifery Council, 2008b). One provision under this requirement is that midwives, as well as nurses, are required to be able to demonstrate their â€Å"†¦ ability to use appropriate communications, teaching and learning skills†. The importance of the preceding is that effective communication is stressed in every Nursing Midwifery Council (2008) document. The significance of the preceding is detailed in the Nursing Midwifery Council’s (2004b) document â€Å"Complaints about unfitness to practise: A guide for members of the public† that deals with allegations concerning care pr actice by midwives. This guide for patients indicates that issues concerning complaints encompasses â€Å"†¦ verbal abuse †¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"†¦ failure to provide adequate care †¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"†¦ concealing unsafe practice †¦Ã¢â‚¬  as key areas, all of which can potentially have their roots in poor communication between midwives and patients. Such instances can be avoided through proper and ongoing communication with patients in a professional manner that emanates from the beginning of the relationship, on through every meeting and or communication exchange. The scope of the preceding, communication, as an important facet in the professionalism and accountability of a midwife is contained in the Nursing Midwifery Council’s (2004c) â€Å"Reporting lack of competence: A guide for employers and managers† that states that one of the characteristics the indicates and or demonstrates a lack of competence includes a â€Å"†¦ difficulty in communicating with colleagues, patients or clients†, the â€Å"†¦ inability to work as apart of a team †¦Ã¢â‚¬ , and â€Å"†¦ poor judgement †¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Nursing Midwifery Council, 2004c). In looking at the foregoing, one can see that communication is either at the heart of, or a symptom. Further importance, as well as administrative recognition of communication as a core foundational aspect in the practice of midwifery is contained in the Nursing Midwifery Council’s (2004d) â€Å"Reporting unfitness to practise: A guide for employers and managers† that states that fitness to practise might be impaired by a â€Å" persistent lack of ability in properly identifying care needs and accordingly planning and delivering appropriate care†. Accountability and Communication The critical nature of health care delivery entails listening and communicating with patients as an active and ongoing dialogue. The critical nature of effective communication as well as accountability and the ramifications of poor communication skills can be a result of the creation of a non-harmonious rapport with the patient that results in misunderstood communication concerning the methods of care and or options open to them, as well as a host of associated factors. In a document as prepared by the Nursing Midwifery Council’s (2008c), listening to patient concerns regarding their care is the first of a list of areas that includes the creation of an â€Å"†¦ environment that facilitates effective communication †¦Ã¢â‚¬ . The emphasis on communication is paramount in the health care profession (Ellingson, 2002). In a study conducted Catherine McCabe (2004, pp. 41-49) she starts her report advising â€Å"Patient centred communication is a basic component †¦ and facilitates the development of a positive nurse-patient relationship †¦ (that) †¦ results in the delivery of quality †¦ care†. Her study uncovered that a lack of communication, along with empathy were two of the most cited reasons by patients in complaints about their health care delivery. The diversity that exists in the UK makes the subject of effective communication even more compelling. Language, educational, believe systems, unsureness and or suspicions regarding the role and or competence of midwifes, tales involving others negative experiences with midwives, as well as a host of other factors represent impediments to the profession that a midwife needs to be aware and cognizant of in establishing contact with a patient, and developing an atmosphere of trust and confidence (Devries et al, 2001). Conclusion In an article published by Medical News Today (2007), it stated that the NMC Code â€Å"†¦ requires each nurse and midwife to act at all times in a such a manner as to justify public trust and confidence†. The article went on to add that â€Å"Nurses and midwifes are personally accountable for their practice †¦Ã¢â‚¬  stating that their professional accountability requires them to â€Å"†¦ work in an open and co-operative manner with patients and their families †¦Ã¢â‚¬  recognising patient input and involvement in their care and health planning (Medical News Today, 2007). While the bulk of this study has focuses on the midwives communication with their patients, which is the core of their responsibilities in their profession, as members of a team, midwives also must exercise and exhibit effective communication with their peers and administrative bodies as well. Supervisors are an important part of this process in that they are there to assist and help midwives stay abreast of new developments, evaluate and aid them in enhancing their care delivery as well as being working partners in the midwife / patient relationship (Nursing Midwifery Council, 2008d). The supervisory practice aids midwifes in their accountability, as well as assisting them in their potential or real communication issues with patients, and stand as an aid in the process. Their role in the effective monitoring of midwifes is in the interests of the public as well as the midwife, through their ongoing monitoring of midwives (Nursing Midwifery Council, 2008d). Jones and Symon (2000, p. 27) point to the preceding as being one of the strengths of the profession in the UK, â€Å"†¦the statutory supervision of midwives†. They state that the system’s priorities are the assisting of midwives in the assessment of their own needs, as well as those of their patients, maintaining the adherence to the Code as their guide (Jones and Symon, 2000, p. 27). The preceding is referred to as ethics that represents the role of midwives, their supervisors and the entire structure of health care that is in the public trust. The aforementioned layer of accountability has been established to oversee midwives as well as provide them with a framework to foster communications with patients, and also provide patients with a structure as well. Good communication, as stated throughout this study, wards off potential issues and problems, and is the cornerstone in establishing effective care for the midwife and patient. Its importance cannot be over emphasised, as miscommunication in health care can have consequences that are life threatening. Bibliography Devries, R., Wrede, S., Teijlingen, E., Benoit, C. (2001) Birth by Design: Pregnancy, Maternity Care, and Midwifery in North America and Europe. Routledge. London, United Kingdom Ellingson, L. (2002) Communication, Collaboration, and Teamwork among Health Care Professionals. Vol. 21, No. 3. Communication Research Trends Jones, S., Symon, A. (2000) Ethics in Midwifery. Mosby Publishers. Edinbergh McCabe. C. (2004) Nurse-patient communication: an exploration of patient’s experiences. Vol. 13, No. 1. Journal of Clinical Nursing Medical news Today (2007) Resuscitation of Patients, UK. 1 November 2007. Medical News Today Nursing Midwifery Council (2004b) Complaints about unfitness to practise: A guide for members of the public. Nursing Midwifery Council. London, United Kingdom Nursing Midwifery Council (2004a) Midwives rules and standards. Nursing Midwifery Council. London, United Kingdom Nursing Midwifery Council (2008d) Modern supervision in action: a practical guide for midwives. Nursing Midwifery Council. London, United Kingdom Nursing Midwifery Council (2004c) Reporting lack of competence: A guide for employers and managers. London, United Kingdom Nursing Midwifery Council (2004d) Reporting unfitness to practise: A guide for employers and managers. Nursing Midwifery Council. London, United Kingdom Nursing Midwifery Council’s (2008c) Support for parents: How supervision and Supervisors of Midwives can help you. Nursing Midwifery Council. London, United Kingdom The Nursing Midwifery Council (2008a) The Code Standards of conduct, performance and ethics for nurses and midwifes. The Nursing Midwifery Council. London, United Kingdom Nursing Midwifery Council (2008b) The Prep handbook. Nursing Midwifery Council. London, United Kingdom

A Report On Snowboarding Winter Sports

A Report On Snowboarding Winter Sports Snowboarding is one of the biggest and fastest growing winter sports. The reason I chose to look into snowboarding more, is because I have wondered about issues like where it began, backcountry boarding, and safety. Snowboarding has been progressing very rapidly, but when did snowboarding actually originate? And who was the person who started it? It seems according to the research I did, that no one actually knows who first came up with the idea. Some say that in the 1920s is when people first started using snowboards, although not actually snowboards, more a board with a string. But we do know that the first type of snowboard was the snurf board. It never had bindings, and was only made for a few years, but the most astounding part was that in the first year of its production, nearly half a million boards were sold. After the snurf board came along burtons first boards, and with them also came the first professional boarders, and the first competitions began. Since then the sport has continued to evolve, and so has the gear as we will talk about later on. Snowboarding gear has changed drastically over the years, from boards and gear that more resembled ski boots and surf boards, to flimsy leather boots that had no strength, to the stiff comfortable boots we now enjoy. The boards themselves have changed drastically as well, but I think the most drastic change has been the clothing for snowboarders. Not only in the way theyre designed, but also in the colors that seem to be popular for that time period. Many of the bright colors such as pink that were sported in the 80s, seem to be coming back in the last few years, Not only pink, but just bright colors in general. The evolution of the bindings is another big step that seems to have been more took in small steps at a time. bindings have progressed from two straps that needed to be ratcheted, to two straps but only one ratchet.. manufacturers have also created step in bindings, which seemed to be in for a little while, but they dont have the same back support, and they tend to have many more problems with the setup, including broken rip cords for when taking of a boot from the board, to frozen snow and ice so that they cant even get the boot locked in. Thus because of all the issues that happened, it seems that manufacturers of all brands have more or less got rid of the step in binding and boots setup. Backcountry is a type of snowboarding that seems to be progressing rapidly, and also shows up more in the latest movies like: Thats It Thats All and Get Real; the focus seems to be on big air Jumps, up to 150 feet distance , and 50 or 80 feet in the air, and then landing on perfectly sloped hills with tons of powder. Another way backcountry seems to be used in the movies is for huge drops, and coming down super steep mountains. These forms are all backcountry, and it is done in many different ways for many different people. Some people use snowmobiles for going into the back country while others use snowshoes or even snowboards that can be split into two parts and made into skis for skiing up the mountain. The main attraction for most people to backcountry seems to be all the fresh powder that comes along with the hard work, as well as people enjoy the adventure and time spent with friends during the day. One of the biggest risk factors about backcountry snowboarding would have to be all the avalanches that happen every year. Without the usual blasting like what goes on at big ski hills, the snow can become very unstable, and even create overhangs, and as a result many avalanches start. Another reason for avalanches is the different variety of conditions up in the mountains, thus causing unstable snow that slides very easily. Differences in tricks and styles of riding since the first competition, have become very clear, I myself dont know what types of tricks and such that were pulled during the first competition. For all I know it could have just been about the one that stayed on his board the longest won! But what I do know is that over the years the tricks and different styles of boarding have changed. First, lets talk about the different styles and kinds of snowboarding, and then after that we will look at how it has all progressed in tricks. The main type of snowboarding is still where someone goes to the ski hill, gets a board and just enjoys going down the slopes at their own pace. However, there are different types, for example, in the deserts they snowboard, but instead of doing it on snow its on sand. There is also the racing of snowboarders down single tracks. The boards are made differently and have the bindings pointing more towards the nose of the oard. There is also the type where you get a bout five people in each race and you go down a track with jumps and moguls, trying to beat the other competitors to the finish line. Another type is the more park freestyle type were boarders can go into half pipes and pull tricks, or nail a few rails. Each type of riding seems to have a type of board that goes along with it. The boards can differ in their flex, length and weight, thus the board suits the type of riding the rider uses it for. Sometimes the rider uses a different style of board than he should for the type of riding he does. For example.. Instead of riding a stiffer board like I should I prefer a flexi board.. but its just my personal preference. When setting up a snowboard there are many different things to come into consideration, including length of the board for the person and the set up, either goofy or regular. Also, the angle of the bindings can be changed for omparableness. When picking a board length for a person, the majority of the time we want a board tha t is just under our nose when compared to us, but again as you get better you might want to change the length of the board for the style of riding you do. When a person is getting set up for the first snowboarding experience, they usually do a test to see which foot should be put first , right foot forward is goofy, left foot forward is regular. To test which foot should go forward they usually just push you backwards and see which foot you step back with. That indicates which is the lead foot, and it should be at the front. When deciding on the angle of your bindings it usually is put for the most comfortable setting allowing the best movement and stability. The usual formation is set with the back binding facing straight, while the front is angled about 10 to 20% towards the front of the board. Again, as the rider gets better he may choose to change the angles. Mine are set both straight, while my friends are set duck foot, being the back binding angled to the tail of the board, w hile the front binding is angled to the front of the board. The reason why so many injuries and deaths occur when snowboarding can be split into two reasons. First, why and how do injuries and deaths occur for backcountry snowboards? And two, why and how are injuries and deaths occurring for snowboarders on slopes and such? To begin with I think we should look at what causes the injuries and deaths in backcountry snowboarding. The largest factor in deaths to snowboarders when doing backcountry is avalanches. Avalanches can be triggered so easily, from taking a drop, to just carving in the fresh powder. So why do avalanches occur? What causes these mass amounts of snow to come careening down the hill towards onlookers and smashing to bits everything in its way? An avalanche is caused by the way snow builds up and the kind of snow building up, as well as different temperatures as it builds up.. if there is a solid slab on the bottom with powdery snow on top , the bottom slab can act l ike a slippery board, and the snow on top will slide on it. In this illustration, it shows the unstable snow that built up, and as the skier in this case carved on the snow it let loose, causing an avalanche. Another reason for deaths to snowboarders is due to the fact that it seems un cool to wear a helmet. I had never ridden with a helmet until this year, but I must say that it doesnt affect anything but keeping your head safe, and who wouldnt want that. If we could get more people wearing helmets alone it would take the death rate down. Illustration 1 I myself grew up skiing from a young age of about five or younger. By the time I was about seven, I was already snowboarding and doing very well at it. From then on I had a lot of people that influenced my boarding, and taught me many skills. At the age of about twelve I started really getting into all the tricks, and uring that time I also built a few rails and attempted to build a half pipe on our property.. of course it was only 4 feet high and 8 feet across, but hey it was something Ill never forget. Since then Ive learned many tricks: 180, 360, 540, grabs, rails even a back flip. After them it just turns into trying to combine the tricks such as a back flip 180 with a grab in it.. gets scary but super fun. Although I have grown up in a small town with huge mountains around me, I really havent done all that much backcountry. Yes, I have done backcountry, but it ends up being like a few times a year at the most. this year I have been wanting to get out and do some more backcountry , but the weather doesnt seem to want me to, seeing as we have had very bad weather which causes many avalanches. But my opinion still stands from my past experiences, backcountry is just the best type of riding, from the soft deep powder, to the massive 80 to 140 foot gaps you can make, with powdery landings. If you want a challenge and a good time, I suggest backcountry snowboarding with a few friends â€Å"beginning of snowboarding.† Snowboard history. 05-22-05. 15/12/09 www. Sbhistory.de â€Å"the history of snowboarding- from garages to Olympics.† The history of snowboarding. 09/10/2008. 16/12/09 http://www.thehistoryof.net/history-of-snowboarding.html â€Å"The history of snowboarding.† Bulgaria ski. 16/12/09 http://www.bulgariaski.com/snowboarding.shtml â€Å"the history of snowboarding .† contributions to the history of snowboarding. 15/12/09 http://www.faqs.org/contrib/jj2/The-history-of-snowboarding.html â€Å".shorelineoftahoo.com. youtube. 15/12/09 â€Å".youtube. VBS.tv. 15/12/09 Ryan wiltons history picture collection. youtube. 16/12/09 â€Å"history of snowboarding.† 16/12/09 Wikipedia â€Å"Backcountry snowboarding.† Backcountry. 15/12/09 http://pistehors.com/backcountry/wiki/Gear/Backcountry-Snowboarding â€Å"off piste- backcountry snowboarding.† ABC of snowboarding. 15/12/09 http://www.abc-of-snowboarding.com/offpiste.asp â€Å"The backcountry can be a beautiful, but dangerous place!†. 2008-2009 season. http://www.snowboarding-master.com/backcountry.html Magazine Snowboard Canada issue for early winter 2009 â€Å"Totally Rad 80s Snowboard Gear Dude.†12/12/08 http://www.fuel.tv/FUELTVED/blogs/view/4787 Pictures AA.http://david.geraldine.perso.neuf.fr/pistehors/images/avalanche/snow/slab-release-d.png

Nuclear Energy is Green Energy Essay -- Power Plant Energy

Introduction In the turn of the new century, man has nearly depleted all the fossil fuels in the world and is desperately in need of a new clean and efficient energy source. A solution to this search of a new energy source is nuclear power. Nuclear power has been proven to be an amazing and powerful source of energy since World War Two however has not been efficiently brought to commercial use. Albert Einstein first came up with the idea of nuclear energy where mass could be converted into energy through his theory of relativity. The power of nuclear technology was later demonstrated in the Manhattan project and Hiroshima with Chicago Pile-1, the first man-made reactor in 1942. In December of 1951 during the Korean War, electricity was first generated by a nuclear reactor at the EBR-I experimental station in Idaho producing up to 100kW. Later, people saw the use of nuclear technology to produce energy and nuclear power became popular. In 1954 the USSR built a nuclear power plant which generated 5 megawatts of electricity which was enough for 2000 homes, the British built the first commercial nuclear power plant in 1956 (which produced 50MW and later 200MW) and the United States followed an year later with the Shippingport Reactor in Pennsylvania. (Nuclear Power, July 27, 2007, Para 5) Nuclear power is generated using many types of radioactive elements, the most common being uranium-238, uranium-235, and also plutonium 239. Like all conventional thermal power plants, a heat source is needed to create steam from water which turns turbines and create electricity. In one of the nuclear processes known as light water, a beam of slow neutrons is directed towards un-enriched natural uranium found which has a chemical composition of... ...tible, safe and clean energy source?, Energy for Future Centuries, Retrieved on July 31, 2007 from http://www.fusie- energie.nl/artikelen/ongena.pdf (Ongena, January 25, 2001, Pg 7, Para 2) (2007). Fact Sheet on the Three Mile Island Accident, United States Nuclear Reglatory Commision, Retrieved on July 31, 2007 from http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/fact-sheets/3mile-isle.html Chernobyl disaster. (2007). In Wikipedia [Web]. Retrieved July 31, 2007, from http:/Volumes/Untitled/cosmos/Chernobyl_disaster.html Nuclear Power. (2006). In Wikipedia [Web]. Retrieved July 27,2007, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_power (2007, July, 28). More than 12,000 MW nuclear power generation by 2020. The Economic Times, Retrieved July 31, 2007, from http://Volumes/Untitled/cosmos/2240670.cms.html (Economic Times, July 28, 2007, Para 2)

Essay on Temptation in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight -- Sir Gawain G

Temptation in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight  Ã‚   In the poem "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight," Gawain is a guest at Hautdesert Castle. During his stay at the castle, three separate hunts take place. These hunts also parallel temptations aimed at Gawain by the wife of the Lord of Hautdesert Castle. In each hunt scene, a characteristic of the prey of that hunt is personified in Gawain's defense against the advances of the Lord's wife.   Ã‚  Ã‚   The first temptation of Gawain is perhaps the most difficult for him to defend. This temptation corresponds with the hunt scene involving a deer, In terms of the hunt, the deer is hunted because it is a staple of the diet, or it is something that satisfies a person. In the same manner, the Lord's wife viewed Gawain as art animal that she was hunting. She was pursued him on the sole basis of her carnal desire. This, her first temptation, is totally sexual. She says "Do with me as you will: that well pleases Inc.,/ For I Surrender speedily and sue for grace Which, to my mind, since I must, is much the best Course" (1215-1217-) She is viewing Gawain much as a hunter would view a deer. She has no interest in any kind of relationship, and she is not extensively flirting with him as she does in the next two temptations; she simply wants sex from him, plain and simple. She is, in a sense, "hunting" Gawain; hunting in that she is pursuing Gawain for the sole purpose of making hi m her trophy. If he falls prey to this temptation, then she has slain him. In his reaction to the lady, Gawain acts much like a deer. He first tries to entirely ignore her, but this tactic was unsuccessful. Then, he stealthily avoids her advances, not directly confronting her, but subtly downplaying the magnitude of her ... ...ce comes into play here as well; he accepts this sash as a foxy attempt to outwit the Green Knight in their pending encounter. In accepting this sash, though, Gawain has shown his weakness, cowardice. As a knight, Gawain is supposed to be protected by God alone. By accepting the sash, Gawain has shown that he has lost his faith in God, since lie feels the sash will do a better job in protecting him than God would. While it may be his only weakness, Gawain's cowardice has done him no good in acting as a honorable, God-fearing knight.   Ã‚  Ã‚   In these temptations, it is evident that Gawain was being tested. Knowing the final out come of the story, it is possible to see that Bertilak and his wife planned the hunts and temptations to coincide with each other. Whether this is true or not, Gawain has certainly proven his honor during his brief stay at Hautdesert Castle.

Crew Resource Management Essay

Military flying differs considerably from commercial aviation due to the special circumstances and restrictions involved. Military discipline revolves around utter obedience whereas CRM aims to foster a culture with encouraging the freedom to respectfully question authority. The primary goal of CRM is enhanced situational awareness, self awareness, leadership, assertiveness, decision making, flexibility, adaptability, event/mission analysis and communication. It recognizes that a discrepancy between what is happening and what should be happening is often the first indicator that an error is occurring. The complexity of military aviation environment demands a foundation of solid airmanship and a healthy, positive approach to combating errors. Aim To learn about the importance of CRM vis-Ã  -vis military aviation CRM – Definition CRM can be defined as a management system which makes optimum use of all available resources – equipment, procedures and people – to promote safety and enhance the efficiency of flight operations. CRM – Overview Crew (or Cockpit) Resource Management training originated from a NASA workshop in 1979 that focused on improving air safety. The NASA research at that time found the primary cause of the majority of aviation accidents to be human error, and further showed the main problems to be failures of interpersonal communication, leadership, and decision making in the cockpit. Cockpit Resource Management (CRM) has gained increased attention from the airline industry in recent years due to the growing number of accidents and near misses in airline traffic. Cockpit Resource Management is a far-reaching discussion of crew coordination, communication, and resources from both within and without the cockpit. CRM concepts have endured by not only integrating themselves into the fabric of training, but also expanding the team concept, evolving into new applications, and possibly most important to the original operators, inspiring development and integration of CRM into safety and quality assurance goals at the corporate level. A variety of CRM models have been successfully adapted to different types of industries and organizations, all based on the same basic concepts and principles. Crew Resource Management still continues to focus on CRM in the cockpit, but also emphasizes that the concepts and training applications provide generic guidance and lessons learned for a wide variety of ‘crews’ in the aviation system as well as in the complex and high-risk operations of many non-aviation settings. Characteristics – Military Aviation The military is a non-homogenous organization. Throughout military aviation there are variations in the type of aircraft, missions performed, number of crew, automation levels and much more. Military flyers are by nature rule based i.e they are bound by policies, procedures and regulations that are often complex and overlapping from multiple origins. Therefore there are four principle characteristics that entail the reason for variety in military CRM training. 1. The Man Civilian pilots are highly experienced in terms of flying hours contrary to the military pilots who are motivated and smart but must account for this large difference in experience. In commercial aviation, most pilots are hired on to airlines after they have achieved significant aviation milestones. In military flying, the pilots are cadets or young officers with almost no flying experience at all. They gain experience and proficiency on job. There are a large number of senior pilots and aircrew who garner substantial experience in their career. Another important factor is the age difference. In comparison, military pilots are exposed to demanding situations at an earlier age and do not have the liberty to make decisions based on experience. The rank and experience gradient causes pilots and aircrew to move away for career progression duties other than flying. The learning styles, attributed to age, also differ from commercial aviation. 2. The Machine The complexity of the machines operated by the military pilots is another factor in the training equation. A modern military aircraft requires that an aircrew member often make split second decisions regarding weapons and other automated systems. Several incidents have resulted in inadvertent weapon release, even resulting in the unintentional shooting down of a friendly aircraft. Military CRM must place additional emphasis on man/machine interface. 3. The Mission Military machines have multidimensional roles. They range from super-sonic fighters in high skies to anti-submarine operations dipping helicopter sonar into the sea. From air assault and combat teams skimming the earth’s surface to anti-ship missile firings, military aviation missions are diverse. At the same time, military aviators apply different set of rules to different missions such as higher HQ missions, ORIs, check rides, standard training missions, and ofcourse combat. This often creates a level of urgency in the operators mind about the set of rules to be followed for flying each day. CRM not only tackles this dilemma, it creates a cultural approach towards safety and operational efficiency. 4. The Environment The military is a fertile ground for hazardous attitudes to manifest themselves in young and aggressive aviators. Its only through effective CRM training that these aircrew members are shaped into safer and more effective aviators. Airline flight crews battle the environment, with safety the paramount concern. In contrast, in addition to the environment, the military aircrews must also engage a clever human enemy, armed with missiles and guns, who knows the fight is coming and constantly changes the rules. The relative importance of the mission must therefore be factored into the military CRM equation. Decision making by a young crew member in a combat environment, strapped inside a complex piece of military hardware while engaging a clever human enemy, is different than airline instructions. Therefore, training must be different and requires well deliberated modules in line with CRM practices. Ideology of Military CRM training The concepts which underpin CRM are not new; rather they are an attempt to distil old axioms into a more coherent management style across the flight regime. Safe and efficient military flight operations depend for their success not merely on the acquisition of sound technical knowledge and skills but also on the mastery by aircrew of the cognitive and interpersonal skills which form the basis of good CRM. Cognitive skills not only allow for the development and maintenance of good situational awareness but also underpin high quality problem solving and decision making techniques. In addition, interpersonal skills, which depend for their effectiveness on good communications, encourage the creation of synergy and the development of successful teamwork. Both cognitive and interpersonal skills are enhanced by a good emotional climate amongst the crew, but they are also easily degraded by stress, so management of the emotional climate and stress becomes an integral and important element of good CRM. CRM is not, therefore, merely an abstract management concept; it embraces principles and proficiency which, if combined with a high degree of technical knowledge and skill, will enable the crew to make best use of all available resources to achieve optimum efficiency in the conduct of operations while at the same time maximising the safety of the flight. Organizational benefits of military CRM efforts There are many prominent organizational benefits that have been realized from the military CRM efforts. Some of these are as follows: 1. Improved mission effectiveness 2. Improved aircrew-maintenance co-ordination and co-operation 3. Improved morale 4. Improved training efficiency 5. Better care and use of valuable hardware Conclusion CRM evolved as a program concern with only emphasizing on changing individual styles and correcting deficiencial behaviour in the first generation, to the second generation with more core skills like decision-making. The term cockpit was changed to crew at this point of era as they realised that other aviation community require CRM training as well. The third generation has major development such as including human factors concepts into its program. The fourth generation integrated organizational culture into its context. Till today, the fifth generation of CRM training is still evolving and consistently monitored for any changes to improve in safety. CRM training now shifted its focus to limitation of human performance as compared to the first generation which is psychological in nature. The prime focus of military CRM is on the quality of judgement rather than the quality of skills. CRM is not and never will be the only mechanism to eliminate error and assure safety in a high risk endeavor such as aviation. Error is an inevitable result of the natural limitations of human performance and the function of complex systems. CRM is one of an array of tools that organizations can use to manage error and achieve objectives by prioritizing CRM practice foremost i.e at the tip of the organizational spear.

Foreign Investment in Malaysia and Its Impact on Economic Growth Essay

Foreign direct investment (FDI) means an international capital flows in which a firm in one country creates or expands a subsidiary in another (Krugman & Obstfeld, 2006). Directly, it means the subsidiary not only has the financial obligation towards its parent company, it extends to the same organizational structure and value. Theoretically, companies involve in FDI due to cost saving on the location, usage of abundance resources, technology transfer, vertical integration (coordinating supply and demand to an agreed price) and currency exchange that will reduce cost and increase value to shareholders. FDI in a host country is expecting to boost the manufacturing and services industry and consequently boost up the economy. FDI impact on economy and social The area has been widely studied by economist and among others, in East Asia, FDI is used as channel of increasing capital stock and it has positive effect on the economic growth in Vietnam (Thu Thi, Paitoon, & Bangorn, 2010) and more growth in Vietnam if the invest is done in education, training, financial market development (Anwar & Lan Phi, 2010). FDI increase wages of skilled and unskilled labour (Oladi, Gilbert, & Beladi, 2011) and it could increase the household spending in the host country. However, the distance of investors from origin country to destination or host country plays an important role in promoting FDI in the latter. This is a sample of macroeconomic gravity impact whereby the investors easily commute from their home country and understanding of the custom and language could reduce the barrier in communication. Foreign investment could contribute in ethical and structural norm in an organization rather than the western cultural transfers. Local cultural norm shall be adhered to during the negotiation process in order to have a win-win situation between investors and local entrepreneur. It is also discussed that political stress may impacted the inflow of FDI by tightening the rules and regulation which in turn will make the investment environment in destination country is less attractive compare to global environment. FDI are positive correlated with network (Shaner & Maznevski, 2011) and regional integration (Nathapornpan Piyaareekul & Peridy, 2009); host countries’ levels of financial market and institutional development, better governance and appropriate macroeconomic policies (Polpat, Bangorn, & Paitoon, 2011; Vadlamannati, Tamazian, & Irala, 2009); productive improvement and learning experience from previous FDI (Takechi, 2011). Therefore, a good support from the government is vital in promoting the FDI in host country. Not only FDI expect good support from the government, study shows that FDI creates instability and worsen crisis (Kazi, 2011). The way to control FDIs in one country are defined the terms and sectors which they are allowed to invest; do a thorough risk assessment on the portfolio; and resolve global dispute in an organization such as World Trade Organization (Cohen, 2009). FDI and determinants are co-integrated. Among determinants FDI factors in Malaysia are openness of a company, interest rates, inflation rate, China joining WTO1 and level of corruption.(Ting-Yong & Tuck-Cheong, 2010). Comparing to ASEAN as a whole, FDI is looked as more market-seeking rather than profit-seeking due to growing internal markets (Siew-Yong, Chen-Chen, & Hui-Boon, 2010). Contrary, Prema-chandra and Swarnim (2011) found that FDI in Malaysia has eroded compare to outflow to another countries. World Trade Organization Facts on FDI in Malaysia (2002-2011) Annual percentage growth rate of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at market prices based on constant local currency. Aggregates are based on constant 2000 U.S. dollars. GDP is the sum of gross value added by all resident producers in the economy plus any product taxes and minus any subsidies not included in the value of the products. It is calculated without making deductions for depreciation of fabricated assets or for depletion and degradation of natural resources2. Data from World Bank (Chart 1 and Chart 2) revealed that FDI into Malaysia has a significant increment over past decade. However, there was a drop of FDI net inflows in 2009, due to world economic recession in 2008. The uptrend is picking up to a highest point at approximately USD12 billion from the last decade. Comparing to our neighboring country, Thailand, whom has a higher GDP, it has the same effect except the decline trend after 2010. It might be influenced by political crisis in Thailand since 2008 that effected international companies’ decision to extend their business in Thailand. From Chart 3, we gathered that the gross capital formation for Malaysia approximately between 20% to 25% of our GDP, with the lowest point at 17.84% in 2009 after 2008 recession. Foreign investment inflows are following the same trend and it clearly shows that FDI dropped synchronize with capital formation following the recession.