Analysis of the most important external environmental factors

Introduction There are elaborate principles instituted for the purposes of ensuring attraction and retention of clients within fitness industry. This can be drawn from the nature of world-class modern facilities required. The issues surrounding retention and attraction of clients remain one of the most concerns within the industry. This has led to increase in competition amongst smaller companies within the industry hence making operations more complicated (Mintzberg et al., 2003).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Analysis of the most important external environmental factors specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More External environmental factors within Town Sports Inc International There is enough evidence to prove that unlike most other major competitors within the market, Town Sports focuses on building current credentials and reputation based on high quality service provision amongst high-end and low-end consumers. Som e of the most important external factors affecting Town Sports include location and accessibility. Most consumers choose their venue for fitness based on these two factors. At the same time, financial and time commitment are necessary considerations as well as catering for those having tight work schedules and unable to commute to the company’s fitness centers. At times customers feel demoralized when it comes to covering long distances for the purposes of reaching fitness centers. Other factors considered involved encouraging employees by offering corporate contracts at discounted within office premises (Town Sports International, 2012). The nature of consumer demand within some areas has also contributed towards the growth of Town Sports Inc. This is since increase in demand signifies existence of potential target market and increase in physical health and fitness awareness. Composition of the target population in terms of age has also influenced the company’s perfor mance. Town Sports basically serves youths and adults, with the majority age being between 15 to 50 years. Exposing this group of people to health consciousness through physical exercises makes them remain fit even in old age. The nature of services offered within the premises has also determined the percentage of attendance. This is since services are directed towards specific age range such as Yoga classes for seniors and appropriate classes for youths and teenagers (Mintzberg et al., 2003). The company has considered cultural trends, through creation of national awareness campaigns concerning importance on physical fitness. There have been increased media campaigns as well as educational programs for the purposes of creating awareness. Cost of membership is reviewed frequently since it provides major stumbling block towards profitability within the industry. Various age groups are offered affordable prices according to their capabilities (Mintzberg et al., 2003). Analysis of most important internal strengths and weaknesses Strengths Success of Town Sports Inc depends on its ability to offer credible corporate culture and ability to implement creative marketing principles. The kind of leadership within Town Sports focuses on providing consumers with new equipments at affordable costs.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Such kind of leadership strategies are considered integral in the process of establishing accepted culture within the corporate community. The management engages in much creativity, especially through introduction of technologically proven essential facilities. Such essential facilities provide customers with desired convenience and efficiency (Town Sports International, 2012). Management focuses on discovering successful business aspects capable of withstanding any difficult times within the industry. This is not necessarily in contrast with other business enterprises since many practices within particular sectors are similar across the industry. There are also other key points involving innovation and development of many unique business practices by the organization’s management. In matters of differentiation, Town Sports Inc operates multiple clubs within populated regions making it easier for the company to serve targeted customer bases. The company’s operation of close to one hundred and forty clubs equivalent to control of at least 2% of the market (Town Sports International, 2012). Weakness There is lack of customer loyalty to Town Sport brand which makes it loose considerable number of customers. Consumers are basically at freedom to choose fitness club of their choice since there are no dominant companies within the industry. Town spot fitness facilities are only concentrated to the east coast meaning that a large population within other regions are still deprived of their services. Town Sport Inc applies the use of cost leadership method which usually focuses on meeting consumer demands through efficient services at affordable prices. There is focus on satisfying customer’s basic fitness needs and also minimization of costs by offering similar services in all centers. The company utilizes available extensive knowledge of the management team as well as innovative marketing strategies to capitalize on expansion (Town Sports International, 2012). Town Sports Inc competitive position and possibilities Based on Porter’s five forces, there is growing interest within the industry owing to low barriers to entry. This has made threat of new entrants to be high within the industry. At the same time there is low switching of costs based on the fact that, consumers choose preferred fitness centers based on accessibility and not brand name. Lack of strict government regulations and also lack of dominant centers has led to increase in the number of new entrants. This ul timately explains existence of low barriers to entry with the only barrier being high nature of initial capital investment required for opening new facility (Barney, 2007).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Analysis of the most important external environmental factors specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Bargaining power of suppliers seems low since the industry requires contributions from few suppliers. The only distinguishing factor the company depends on its ability to offer new equipment based on improved technology. This is because there is similarity in kind of services offered by all companies involved. However, suppliers may have influence in offering technologically improved equipments since there is vast number of suppliers within the market making competition stiff amongst suppliers hence equipment’s low prices. This makes Town Sport Inc and other companies within the industry depend so much on membe rship revenue due to high bargaining power of buyers. Low costs involved within the industry has made it easier for consumers to control prices prompting the company to lower prices for the purposes of remaining competitive through increase in number of customers. This presents one of the biggest challenges since low prices benefit consumers but decreases industry revenue returns. The company faces high threat of substitutes based on high presence of other recreational activities. Outdoor activities have remained popular and some of the activities are cheaper compared to gym subscriptions. However, such activities can at times be affected by weather presenting an advantage to gymnasium facilities. The other substitute includes home-based exercise equipments found amongst higher-income consumers with limited free time (Barney, 2007). Conclusion Town Sports Inc strategies mainly target increase in number of customers, and enhancement of their loyalty to the facilities and services.   The organization’s main task involves retention of loyal customers within regions served and beyond. This ensures consistent increase in market share for various services provided.   Managing the task of capturing attention of potential clients assures that the fitness company receives positive results. References Town Sports International. (2012). Company Overview. Retrieved from http://mysportsclubs.com/ Barney, J., B. (2007). Gaining and sustaining competitive advantage. (3rd ed.). Pearson Prentice Hall: Upper Saddle RiverAdvertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Mintzberg, H., Ghoshal, S., Lampel, J., Quinn, J. B. (2003). The strategy process:  Concepts, contexts, cases.(4th ed.). Prentice Hall: Upper Saddle River This essay on Analysis of the most important external environmental factors was written and submitted by user Markus Gilbert to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Free Essays on Teen Drinking

Teen drinking is very prevalent in today’s society. Have you ever been to a party and someone started drinking and soon everyone there was too? Did you ever stop to think what problems go along with teen drinking. It is no joke it is a very serious problem. A lot of teens do not realize that alcohol damages them physically, emotionally, and mentally. When teens use alcohol it causes many physical problems. Alcohol can ruin your health. The more you drink the more damages is done to your body. Many teens do not realize that when you consume alcohol in large quantities and done quickly you body has no chance to assimilate the alcohol, thus resulting in alcohol poisoning, coma or even death. Likewise, prolonged and heavy abuse of alcohol can slowly kill you. It can damage or destroy vital organs, such as your liver, pancreas, brain, and heart. Developing young bodies and minds are particularly vulnerable to such damage, which is sometimes irreparable. Some teens claim that alcohol helps them to function better. Some teens are shy, and feel drinking allows them to meet new people, have fun, and come out of their shells. The problem is though that a teen matures not by running from difficult situations but by facing them. Learning to cope with problems as a youth is just a rehearsal for the trials of adulthood. In the long run shy teens or teens in general who drink find that the temporary effects of alcohol do not help them over come their shyness or to feel better. The same is true of using alcohol as a crutch in dealing with stress. If a youth feels overwhelmed and stressed out he may think that a drink of alcohol will calm him down and take away the stress or problems he or she is facing. When teens drink it slows down their mental process. Even though they may not think it does, alcohol impairs your speech and thoughts. They are unable to think clearly and make quick decisions that may cost them... Free Essays on Teen Drinking Free Essays on Teen Drinking The drinking age is fine, if anything is should get raised. It is hard to ignore the fact that this law is broken everyday. It's the 90's all teens just want to fit in. Kids are drinking at a much younger age. Now, even 10 year olds and 11 year olds are trying to fit in with us older kids. It's amazing and sometimes funny what kids will do just to fit in with the "good" crowd. Well to some of us, that's considered the druggies and drinkers. Our parents call them the "bad" crowd with good reason. I speak from experience. Now I agree with the parents out there who worry about their kids getting into the same kind of troubles as I was in at one point in my life. I'm going to cut the bull*censored* and talk about the facts. Here's what parties today look like for teens. The setting, a beach or a house with no adults around to say what's wrong. The people are a bunch of teens of both sexes. The environment is any kind of drugs and or alcohol. These consists of hard liquor like Vodka and Jack Daniel's. Then there is beer with the lighter stuff like wine, wine coolers, and fuzzy navel. Teens that drive are in big trouble and are at big risk. I'm not blaming the accidents that involve drunk in just teens. Drunk drivers are of all ages. And I'm not trying to say that all teens drink either. But the ones that do and are stupid enough to say they're sober and can drive home safe. Those are the ones that put innocent citizens at risk. The drunk teens that drive are looking at getting their license provoked. They go to jail, their car gets impounded, and of course they get a DUI. At parties where teens get drunk and have kinky sex, they can easily forget stuff like making sure the girl cums. A lot of times that's where teens get pregnant. The girls don't always know their pregnant so they continue drink. This is bad for their baby. When they have unprotected sex there's the risk of diseases. All together I think it's pretty stupid to... Free Essays on Teen Drinking Teen drinking is very prevalent in today’s society. Have you ever been to a party and someone started drinking and soon everyone there was too? Did you ever stop to think what problems go along with teen drinking. It is no joke it is a very serious problem. A lot of teens do not realize that alcohol damages them physically, emotionally, and mentally. When teens use alcohol it causes many physical problems. Alcohol can ruin your health. The more you drink the more damages is done to your body. Many teens do not realize that when you consume alcohol in large quantities and done quickly you body has no chance to assimilate the alcohol, thus resulting in alcohol poisoning, coma or even death. Likewise, prolonged and heavy abuse of alcohol can slowly kill you. It can damage or destroy vital organs, such as your liver, pancreas, brain, and heart. Developing young bodies and minds are particularly vulnerable to such damage, which is sometimes irreparable. Some teens claim that alcohol helps them to function better. Some teens are shy, and feel drinking allows them to meet new people, have fun, and come out of their shells. The problem is though that a teen matures not by running from difficult situations but by facing them. Learning to cope with problems as a youth is just a rehearsal for the trials of adulthood. In the long run shy teens or teens in general who drink find that the temporary effects of alcohol do not help them over come their shyness or to feel better. The same is true of using alcohol as a crutch in dealing with stress. If a youth feels overwhelmed and stressed out he may think that a drink of alcohol will calm him down and take away the stress or problems he or she is facing. When teens drink it slows down their mental process. Even though they may not think it does, alcohol impairs your speech and thoughts. They are unable to think clearly and make quick decisions that may cost them...

BVC Company Law Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

BVC Company Law Assignment - Essay Example Tyler from the directorship of the company was valid or otherwise. 3. Winding up proceedings, based on a statutory demand in proper form, have been commenced against the company. The petition has already been advertised and the company’s bank accounts have been frozen. The company wrote to the creditor, when underlying debt was first demanded, stating that the agreement was that the creditor’s invoices were payable after 60 days. I have been informed that the petition was given to a junior employee, who did not understand what it was, and it was not until very recently that Mr Henderson heard of it and immediately contacted the instructing solicitors. They also contend that since the bank accounts are frozen, it is not possible for them to pay off the petitioning creditor. Summary of Advice 4. As a director, Mr. Tyler owed a duty to take reasonable care and caution when dealing with the company’s assets. By misusing the credit cards of the company, he had breache d his duty. The removal of Mr. Tyler can be justified on the basis of his mismanagement of the company’s funds and his general conduct during the period of his directorship. The only problem in this regard is Article 11 of the Articles of Association of the company, where it requires the passing of a special resolution for the removal or appointment of a director. Under CA 2006, a director can be removed by simple majority but with special notice. The brief is silent about the special notice. Thus, a special notice and a chance of hearing to defend against the removal is mandatory before taking the decision of removal Mr. Tyler. Thus, his removal without these prerequisites can be invalidated. In my opinion, although the current directors have a prospect of getting a court decision in their favour, if a claim is brought under unfair prejudice Mr. Tyler can stake a personal claim or derivative claim or a claim for the just and equitable winding up of the company. In my opinion , the best option available to the company and its directors is to offer to buy Mr. Tyler’s shares at a fair rate. 5. With respect to the winding-up petition, Mr Henderson would like to dispute the petition on the basis of his letter to the creditor, when they first demanded the payment explaining that under the company’s standard terms and conditions it has 60 days time lag after receipt of invoices. The petition can be disputed, as the company has a policy to pay its debts within 60 days of receiving the invoice, which can be discerned from the company’s previous transactions. The company can apply for an injunction or an application for the rejection of the insolvency proceedings, but there are chances that the court may issue an order against the company, which will result in additional costs being incurred by them. In my opinion, the best option available to the company is to make an application to the court for the assurance of a validation order so that t he company can pay its outstanding debts. As the company’s accounts are held at one branch and the bank has frozen the bank account, the company can ask for a validation order to allow it to use its accounts to pay off the debts. Removal of Mr Tyler from the Directorship 6. Mr. Tyler was removed from his capacity as a director of the company during the last year, when the other directors decided that Mr.

Barker v. Wingo Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Barker v. Wingo - Essay Example Of the six Manning trials, four emerged erroneous prompting new trials. On February 1963, Barker’s trial was scheduled after finding Manning guilty of the murders. Two more trials were done for Barker, who tried to have his case dismissed for having been denied speedy trial right. This was rejected and he was convicted and issued with a life sentence. Barker’s appeal for the decision finally ended up at the Supreme Court. Any inflexible rule cannot determine the constitutional right of the defendant to a speedy trial, but an ad hoc balancing basic can be used instead where the conduct of the prosecution is weighed against the defendant’s. The court decided that the defendant was never denied his constitutional right to a speedy trial. In the case, after establishing that no serious prosecution prejudice existed and that the defendant never wanted speedy trial, the court concluded that Barker’s constitutional right to a speedy trial was not violated. Barker delayed to object the delays until after their occurrence. When a defendant has the intention of having a speedy trial, he has an obligation to actively invoke it. The Court decision was thus on

BUSINESS PLAN Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

BUSINESS PLAN - Essay Example Provides guest house facilities in the area of Manhattan in the big apple, which is New York. The company realizes the important role played by the service industry in providing services to travelers around the world by meeting their lodging needs. In line with this, the service industry has been one of the most growing industries especially in the Manhattan borough following an influx of travelers in this area. Hence, the company realizes the need to fill the gap by providing lodging facilities aimed at travelers from South Korea. The founder and CEO [Insert your name here] currently holds the company’s stock. For many years, South Koreans have been coming to New York, more so to the borough of Manhattan and they have faced numerous problems regarding their lodging needs. As a result, they have been forced to spend a lot of money on boarding or resulted to finding illegal boarding and lodging facilities that did not have operation licenses. In effect, they have experienced in stances of insecurity and Eagle Guest House Ltd wants to change the current state of affairs by providing affordable lodging facilities to this group. ... The company also aims at steadily growing and becoming profitable in the second year of its operation. Industry and Competitor Analysis The service industry in New York has many international and local hostels that meet the needs of different travelers. In the borough of Manhattan, many hotels offer services to clients although most hotels offered discriminative prices on their services. In this case, the hotels were expensive for an ordinary South Korea. On the other hand, various illegal Korean guesthouses faced the prospects of closure due to their illegal operations. Hence, there is a need to fill this gap. Target Customers The company targets customers from South Korea who travel to the United States, and especially to the borough of Manhattan. Due to the elimination of visa requirements for South Koreans to travel to the United States two years ago, there has been an influx in the number of travelers to the country. Hence, this is the clientele that the company targets with for ecasts indicating that more South Koreans are traveling to New York, and especially to the borough of Manhattan. Company Description Eagle Guest House Ltd is a startup. Hence, the company will be starting its operations once it outlines the plans necessary for any startup. However, the specific objective of the company is to meet the demand for affordable boarding and lodging needs for South Koreans who traveled to the United States, and especially to the borough of Manhattan. In line with this, the company’s other objectives are to enhance profitability during the second year of business, which implies that the first year of business will be to establish the company and create a foundation for profit

Humans Causing The Sixth Mass Extinction

Humans Causing The Sixth Mass Extinction Humans could be causing the sixth mass extinction of the world through the effect the human species has on the planet earth. Human population density increases, climate change due to human activities and increased human exploration and interference of nature are some of the ways humans are on their way to causing the sixth mass extinction. A mass extinction refers to the extinction of a significant proportion of the worlds biota in a geologically insignificant period of time (Hallam Wignall, 2002, p. 2). Put simply this means a large amount of species die out a little amount of time. Raup (1992) suggests that approximately half the earths surface must be environmentally affected in order for a mass extinction, on par with previous mass extinctions, to occur (Hallam Wignall, 2002). Previous mass extinctions have occurred towards the ends of the Ordovician, Devonian, Permian, Triassic and Cretaceous eras (Mader, 2008). These time periods show a sudden marked decrease in biodiversity. Towards the end of the Ordovician period, the climate turned cold and it is believed up to 85% of the earths species disappeared. These species would have consisted of trilobites and brachiopods. The late Devonian mass extinction which was only recently recognised as a mass extinction in the late 1960s, continued for 20-25 million years with several extinction events such as the Kellwasser and Hangenberg (Hallam Wignall, 2002). Species including sponges, calcareous algae, foraminifera and bivalves suffered extinction within this period (Hallam Wignall, 2002). The mass extinction of the late Permian era over 250 million years ago is known to be the most severe with extinction of 54% of marine families and 96% of all marine species (Erwin, 1990). During the Triassic period, plant li fe consisted mainly of confiers and cycads. It was during this time period the first dinosaurs appeared and continued to survive despite a significant decrease in biota towards the end of this era. It is believed that the Cretaceous mass extinction was caused by meteorites that fell to the earth causing a dust cloud. This dust cloud then blocked out the sun, causing atmospheric temperatures to drop and the majority of life on earth to cease. The Creataceous mass extinction marked the extinction of the dinosaurs (Mader, 2008). The sheer increase in human population and density has affected the earths animals. It is estimated that the world population grows at approximately 1.15% per year. Within the 40 years between 1959 and 1999, the world population doubled from 3 billion to 6 billion (Worldometers.info, 2009). This translates to not only an increased strain on natural resources such as water but also increased competition for resources amongst all living things. Human activity has had a tremendous impact on the planet earth. It is estimated between one third and one half of the earths surface has been altered by human activities such as deforestation, forestry and development (Vitousek, Mooney, Lubchenco, Melillo, 1997). These practices alter the earths biodiversity and drive climate change affecting ecosystems which consequently causes disruption to the animal kingdom. Land transformation also directly contributes to climate change with an approximate 20% increased concentration of greenhouse gases an d air pollution (Vitousek, Mooney, Lubchenco, Melillo, 1997). Within the oceans, although the impact of human activity can be difficult to measure, there is significant damage. It is estimated 50% of the worlds mangroves have been destroyed or severely affected by humans (Vitousek, Mooney, Lubchenco, Melillo, 1997). Needless to say, every area of the planet that is affected by humans, affects every living thing surviving within that area. There have been many animals that have existed and become extinct before humans have even discovered they may have once existed at all (Jefferson Zuckerman, 1993). Coupled with the arrival of the first British settlers to Australia came the disappearance of nearly all large mammals and flightless birds (Jefferson Zuckerman, 1993). The largest animal types have suffered extinction such as the Dodo, the elephant birds of Madagascar and the turtles of Galapagos. A predicted 13 000 turtles disappeared within the Galapagos islands between 1838 and 1888 due to their demand as a food supply on crew ships crossing the area (Jefferson Zuckerman, 1993). Such instances of animal extinction due to humans are increasingly common. Recent calculations show that animal extinction has increased by 100 to 1000 times since human domination of the planet (Jefferson Zuckerman, 1993). This translates into approximately 18% of mammals, 11% of birds, 5% of fish and 8% of flora on earth threatened with e xtinction due to human domination (Jefferson Zuckerman, 1993). Although there are countless specific examples of particular species that have become extinct due to reasons directly related to human activity, the extinction of earths megafauna is the most poignant. The extinction of the megafauna, land animals weighing up to 45kg, has been attributed to human colonisation (Roberts, et al., 2001). Megafauna extinction in Australia occurred within the last million years, directly after known human settlement. This extinction pattern continued for North then South America, Madagascar and New Zealand providing evidence to suggest human colonisation could have contributed to the extinction of the megafauna (Roberts, et al., 2001). Humans are causing the sixth mass extinction through continued development to advance the human race without consideration of the environmental impact (Eldredge, 2001). It is predicted three major causes of animal extinction are direct habitat destruction, over exploitation and introduced species. Human consumption and exploitation of natural resources causes changes in the earths atmosphere such as an increase in greenhouse gases leading to increased temperatures on earth. Humans are causing the sixth mass extinction through consumption of natural resources that has a significant impact on the earths flora and fauna. Extinction rates of animals have dramatically increased since human colonisation and will continue to decrease without strict measures of conservation by all.

Fed Ex vs UPS Case Analysis Essay example -- essays research papers

Executive Summery The parcel service industry is made up of four main competitors. These competitors are UPS, FedEx, Airborne Express, and the U.S. Postal Service. Since 2000, American consumers have spent more than $50 billion to ship parcels, packages, and overnight letters. New parcel distribution patterns developed due to the way U.S. manufacturing companies are operating. The Internet has expanded the reach of direct marketing, particularly with retail transactions requiring home delivery. Globalization has also created the need for parcel carriers to expand worldwide. UPS and FedEx are the leading parcel carriers in the U.S. FedEx has significantly expanded their capability to compete with UPS’s dominant ground delivery service. UPS has continued its strong marketing efforts in overnight and deferred air services. Both of these carriers have introduced information systems, which include user-friendly Internet interfaces. The carriers have also expanded logistical services and improved integration with customer supply chains. State of the Environment State of the General Environment More and more people are using computers and the Internet. Dual income families have increased spending; therefore more people are ordering products over the internet at a high rate. The Internet offers customers a one stop source for global shipping. Due to this, there has been an increase in using information technology and the Internet for businesses. This has created an increase in trade and investment along with global shipping logistics and supply chain solutions. With the increase in globalization, companies have had to adapt to the diverse work force and the culture of the countries in which they are conducting business. The parcel service industry is controlled by strict regulations and federal law. For example, September 11 brought stricter laws and regulations in the parcel service industry. Operations must maintain federal approval to operate in the United States. State of the Industry Environment   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The parcel service industry is dominated by four carriers that make up 95 percent of the industries domestic revenue. Over the years, the industry has had an increase growth rate over time and an increased role in the economy. This is due to the way manufacturing companies are now operating. With the growth of the parcel service ... ...hich means that a business can get paid quicker, lower its capital requirements, minimize management headaches, manage change and gain competitive advantage. UPS focus is to help their customers consistently achieve these results. The core of UPS is the distribution of goods and the information that accompanies them. UPS has branched out to focus on services. The company’s expertise in shipping and tracking positioned it to become an enabler of global commerce and also a facilitator of commerce, which includes goods, information, and capital. To fulfill the vision of offering new services, UPS strategically acquired existing companies and created new kinds of companies that did not previously exist. Through these acquisitions and creations, UPS serves its customers by providing unique supply-chain solutions. UPS allowed its customers to better serve their own customers, and focus on core competencies. UPS has a Logistics Group to provide global supply chain management solutions and consulting services based on customers ´ individual needs. UPS has a mission to provide a list of options of integrated financial products and services that enable companies to grow their business.

Philosophy of Education Essay

The philosophy of education can be defined as a belief/thought/theory on the ways which can be used in the process of education and also the importance of education. This defines how children are to be educated as well as the purpose that education plays in the society. There is a necessity of philosophy which can be termed as the same as the need for a plan in life or even as a way in which to find a destination in life. The major source of the philosophy in education is the mixture or combination of material which has been read or studied on the thoughts of other people which can be termed as idealism or rationalism and also the personal experiences which can be grossly defined as direct and also indirect realism of empiricism(Carr, 2003). In a period of time there have been a lot of changes in technology as compared to the philosophy of education. Online courses have been made a reality through the advent of the internet and the computers. Creation of a learning community which is effective has a major requirement that the supposed learners do share the knowledge that they have and also their suggestions and thoughts so that the process of interaction with the fellow learners and their respective instructors is of importance. At the same time these processes should contribute to the readings and also to the assignments. I believe that education is truly a major factor in promoting the evolution of not just an individual but the society as a whole. This paper presents the role education plays as well as my personal views on this concept. With the philosophy of Neo-Thomism and Locke, Rousseau being my greatest inspirations as a teacher, the paper further explains these two concepts. It clearly brings out my role as a teacher, my vision for how schools should be in terms of curriculums, instructions as well as assessments. The role of a student has also been defined. Towards the end of the paper, the paper presents intervention measures that would be most effective in dealing with drug, tobacco and alcohol use and abuse and with teen pregnancies as two risk factors among the young students. The paper is written out of my own experience as a seventh grade science teacher. It contains my personal views and possible actions. Classic Educational Philosophies and Philosophers Educators draw their motivation from different philosophies or philosophers of education. My closest match for me has always been the philosophy of Neo Thomism by Jacques Maritain and Etienne Gilson as well as that of one great philosopher called Locke, Rousseau. Neo Thomism goes against modern philosophy and philosophical systems. The philosophy calls for the use of principles used to build philosophy. According to Gilson, this principles are very important are important necessities during philosophical inquiries and orientations. Rousseau called for an educational system that exposed a child into particular environment and allowing the students to learn form the situations within that environment. Students should learn from their surroundings and from the happenings in the society, this way they will have the capacity and skills to solve any situation and day to day occurrences. This is in line with my goal and objective of bringing up students into mature adults who can fearlessly and strongly face the every day hassles of the world and develop workable solutions in life be it at work, in their personal, social or emotional lives. Role as a Teacher My personal role and goal as a teacher is to ensure that children enjoy learning and completely deal with the every day perception that school is boring. It is with this in mind that I always incorporate fun in learning, engaging in out door activities that will further promote understanding of what is learnt in class. Education should aim at creating a will to learn more. Vision for Schools It is important that schools always work towards bringing out individuals successful students not just academically and out of high grades but also socially, emotionally and psychologically. Education should teach students on how to successfully deal with the day to day situations of life, it should teach us how to find solutions to various challenges (Gutek,1997). School curriculums should aim at bringing out the best of what is education is meant to bring. It should be a curriculum where students can learn to make use of the day to day happenings and innovations. I personally find the West Australian’s recently implemented outcome- based curriculum whereby a the curriculum is planned on the basis of what outcomes the teacher wants to achieve rather than on particular contents that have to be taught(Bloodworth, 2002). This curriculum also has its negative side mainly due to its difficulty in promoting uniformity in education quality. Incorporating the two approaches , the outcome based and the content based, as well as the use of the internet is a one way through which quality workable curriculums can be developed (Clabaugh & Rozycki, 1990). One suitable way of assessing what the students have learned is holding a question answer session after each lesson. Success rate will in this case be rated by the student’s ability to answer questions. The participation of each student should be a major consideration. Role of the Students Generally, seventh grade students have been found to divert their interests from learning to other issues such as fan and socialization. It is important to have these students have the inner drive to learn and achieve success. The best of achieving this is creating a situation whereby students can positively learn from their peers through class discussions, interaction and active engagements in class projects as well as presentations. Risk Factors Young children are faced with a number of risk factors likely to expose them to numerous problems in their lives and to affect their education. As an experienced teacher who has taught seventh grade students for over five years now, I have learnt to deal with these risks and have specifically dealt with teenage pregnancies and with the abuse of alcohol and drugs. In a situation where I have a student with these two risk factors in my class there are various interventions that I would undertake to deal with these problems. My first action would be to create a foundation at which the student can trust and confide in me. My listening skills should be of importance at this point. I will also ensure that the child does not feel discriminated and out of place neither is she the only person who has been in similar a situation. The views, desires and ideas of the student will enable me to identify the necessary steps to take with the need to make her realize the need to positively change. Introducing this student to other young persons who are going through the same problem as she is would be an effective way of positively encouraging her. The group will give her the chance to open up, give her a sense of belonging, hope and will to change. Learning from the experiences of others, both peers and older people, could be a workable intervention. Students and young people need to know on the various other ways through which they can have fun without necessarily having to engage in sexual activities or drug use (Zygon, 1985). The involvement of parents is also very essential. The parents need to know the positive role they should play in ensuring that the child is able to deal with the situation. One way through which these interventions can be implemented is through professional counseling and guidance for both the student and the parents or guardians. A counselor will effectively be able to communicate with them, get to the root causes of the problem and in turn develop workable solutions. Rehabilitation of the student as a way of dealing with alcohol and drug abuse is another sure way of enhancing positive change and ability to deal with the problem. In each of these cases, the student should be let to interact with other peers going through the same situations. Learning from the existing happenings in the society and from the experiences of others will be an effective form of intervention. Conclusion The philosophy of education acts as a personal guide for every teacher. It helps in defining ones goal as a teacher, outcomes or results desired and ways of achieving these outcomes. A philosophy basically acts as a basis to promoting the development of a child in school. It defines the role of both the teacher and student. Educational philosophies are therefore effective means of promoting quality education with purpose of education being clearly defined. A teacher with a philosophy will not only be able to provide quality education for his students but to also effectively deal with the various risk factors that students may be going through. , a teacher should be able to build the child physically, mentally, socially and emotionally. It should train them on how to deal with the day to day situation and to find solutions to the various problems they may come across not just as students but also as adults. Education gives a basis for the future. This can only be achieved if the students are allowed to learn through the everyday happenings and situations in the society. References Bloodworth R. (2002) â€Å"Methods of and Curricula for Institutionally Implementing and Sustaining Education†. Educational Philosophy and Change, 2(1): 234 Carr, D. (2003) Making Sense of Education: An Introduction to the Philosophy and Theory of Education and Teaching. London: RoutledgeFalmer. Clabaugh, G. & Rozycki, E. (1990). Understanding schools: The foundations of education. New York: Harper & Row. Gutek, G. (1997) Philosophical and Ideological Perspectives on Education. Needham Heights, MA: Allyn & Bacon. Zygon, K. (1985) â€Å"Zygon: Imaging the Future: New Visions and New Responsibilities†. JOP, 20, (3):65.

Pressure Groups †Amnesty International Essay Essays

Pressure Groups – Amnesty International Essay Essays Pressure Groups – Amnesty International Essay Essay Pressure Groups – Amnesty International Essay Essay In Great Britain. the figure of political parties is really little. whereas the figure of force per unit area groups runs into 1000s ; as the rank of political parties has fallen. that of force per unit area groups has increased. The purpose of all force per unit area groups is to act upon the people who really have the power to do determinations. A force per unit area group is an organized group that seeks to act upon the authorities determinations or protect or progress a peculiar cause or involvement. Groups may advance a specific issue and raise it up the political docket. Pressure groups are sometimes able to garner sufficient support to coerce authorities to amend or even scrap statute law. For illustration. in March 1998 around 300. 000 people went to London to protest about the Labour government’s rural policies – the ‘Countryside March’ – the authorities reacted by denoting programs for a Ministry of Rural Affairs and by printing a white pap er look intoing all facets of rural life. In return. these groups have an input into the devising of determinations. My presentation is chiefly focused on the one of the most influential force per unit area group and human rights administration in the universe. called Amnesty International. Amnesty International is a world-wide motion of people who run for internationally recognized human rights to be respected and protected for everyone. It undertakes research and takes action aimed at forestalling and stoping sedate maltreatments of these rights. demanding that all authoritiess and other powerful entities respect the regulation of jurisprudence. It campaigns globally and locally. Amnesty International members and protagonists exert influence on authoritiess. political organic structures. Militants take up human rights issues by mobilising public force per unit area through mass presentations. vigils. direct lobbying. publication and publicity of research findings. human rights instruction or co-operation with pupil groups. Amnesty International works with and for persons the universe over. For illustration. it takes action to: halt force against adult females or get rid of the decease punishment. Ever since Amnesty International started runing in 1961. it has worked around the Earth to halt the maltreatment of human rights. In 1961 Peter Benenson launched a worldwide run. ‘Appeal for Amnesty 1961’ with the publication of a outstanding article. ‘The Forgotten Prisoners’ . The imprisonment of two Lusitanian pupils. who had raised their vino spectacless in a toast to freedom. moved Benenson to compose this article. His entreaty was reprinted in other documents across the universe and turned out to be the generation of Amnesty International. The first international meeting was held in July. with delegates from Belgium. the UK. France. Germany. Ireland. Switzerland and the US. They decided to set up â€Å"a lasting international motion in defense mechanism of freedom of sentiment and religion† . On Human Rights Day. 10 December. the first Amnesty taper was lit. In January 1962 the first research trip was undertaken. This trip to Ghana. was followed by Czechoslovakia in February ( on behalf of a captive of scruples ) . and so to Portugal and East Germany. Furthermore. At a conference in Belgium. a determination was made to put up a lasting organisation that will be known as Amnesty International. During all these old ages Amnesty International has undertaken many of the runs and actions and developed human rights. It broaden its district and became one of the most stronger human rights defender. In January 1969. UNESCO granted Amnesty International advisory position as the organisation reached another milepost – 2. 000 captives of scruples released. In 1977 the administration was awarded Nobel Peace Prize for its â€Å"campaign against torture† . and the United Nations Prize in the Field of Human Rights in 1978. After 30 old ages the organisation broaden its range to cover work on maltreatments by armed resistance groups. surety pickings and people imprisoned due to their sexual orientation. Thousands of Amnesty International members respond to Urgent Action entreaties on behalf of persons at immediate hazard. Publicity through the intelligence media and the cyberspace takes its message in many linguistic communications to 1000000s of people. It is an administration independent of any authorities. political political orientation. economic involvement or faith. it is democratic and autonomous and financially self-sufficing. Amnesty International has more than 2. 8 million members. protagonists and endorsers in over 150 states and districts. in every part of the universe. It has offices in 80 states around the universe. for illustration in Sweden. Senegal or Bangladesh. Amnesty International research squads concentrating on peculiar states and subjects investigate studies of human rights maltreatments. cross checking and confirming information from a broad assortment of beginnings and contacts. It receives information from many beginnings. including: captives and others enduring other human rights maltreatments and their representatives. attorneies and journalists. refugees. community workers and human rights organisations and guardians All Amnesty International candidacy and research is fact based. Among the many activities it carry out. it sends experts to speak with victims. observes tests. proctors planetary and local media. publicise its concerns in paperss. cusps. postings. advertizements. newssheets and web sites. Amnesty International’s current six twelvemonth ( 2010 -2016 ) scheme aims to authorise rights-holders whose rights are challenged and beef up the human rights motion.

Free Essays on Sports Psyc

Sports Psychology is â€Å"psychological and mental factors that influence and are influenced by participation and performance in sport, exercise, and physical activity.†( AAASP online, 2002, â€Å"What is sports psychology†, para.1) A sports psychologist also uses the knowledge gained through his/her studies of sports psychology and tries to apply it to everyday settings. When one thinks of the word psychology, a sport isn’t the first thing they associate with it. To better understand what sports psychology is, we first have to understand what exactly a sports psychologist is and what service he or she provide for a patient. And to further understand the topic we have to outline a few of their techniques and methods in treating a patient. A sports psychologist has two main areas of focus. The first one is helping an athlete use psychological factors to optimize his or her own mental health, and to help that person to reach his/her peak performance level. The second is understanding how the participation in sports and exercise effects the psychological development throughout an individuals lifespan. A sports psychologist’s job is to try and get an athlete into the zone of optimal functioning (ZOF). To do this they first have to figure out what the mental or physical block that is preventing a person from reaching that zone. Some examples of these mental and physical blocks are, a football player that just recovered from an ankle sprain might be afraid to make a cut-back or plant their feet and block, because they think they could sprain their ankle again. Another is maybe a softball player who is in a serious hitting slump. The sports psychologist might have these people do mental exercises or have them change the way they approach a physical activity. To reach the zone of optimal functioning we first have to understand what the â€Å"zone† is. When someone says he/she is in the zone they are usually referring to whe... Free Essays on Sports Psyc Free Essays on Sports Psyc Sports Psychology is â€Å"psychological and mental factors that influence and are influenced by participation and performance in sport, exercise, and physical activity.†( AAASP online, 2002, â€Å"What is sports psychology†, para.1) A sports psychologist also uses the knowledge gained through his/her studies of sports psychology and tries to apply it to everyday settings. When one thinks of the word psychology, a sport isn’t the first thing they associate with it. To better understand what sports psychology is, we first have to understand what exactly a sports psychologist is and what service he or she provide for a patient. And to further understand the topic we have to outline a few of their techniques and methods in treating a patient. A sports psychologist has two main areas of focus. The first one is helping an athlete use psychological factors to optimize his or her own mental health, and to help that person to reach his/her peak performance level. The second is understanding how the participation in sports and exercise effects the psychological development throughout an individuals lifespan. A sports psychologist’s job is to try and get an athlete into the zone of optimal functioning (ZOF). To do this they first have to figure out what the mental or physical block that is preventing a person from reaching that zone. Some examples of these mental and physical blocks are, a football player that just recovered from an ankle sprain might be afraid to make a cut-back or plant their feet and block, because they think they could sprain their ankle again. Another is maybe a softball player who is in a serious hitting slump. The sports psychologist might have these people do mental exercises or have them change the way they approach a physical activity. To reach the zone of optimal functioning we first have to understand what the â€Å"zone† is. When someone says he/she is in the zone they are usually referring to whe...

Chicago issue and trend Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Chicago issue and trend - Research Paper Example In the process, it has resulted in a dramatic increase in the value of property leading to the greatest affordability crisis ever experienced in Chicago. Even a slight expectation of gentrification was considered a gentrifying factor to an extent that neighborhoods in areas such as the Southern Loop, Pilsen and Bronzeville were considered gentrified way before they actually became gentrified. The Great Chicago Fire that occurred in 1871 destroyed over 18,000 buildings and 2,000 acres of land. Though the destruction caused by the fire was very expensive, it can be argued that the most adverse effects were ultimately felt in those parts of the city that were not devoured by the flames.3 While the devastated Northern Side experienced what was referred to as the Great Rebuilding, majority of the Southern Side remained in its 19th century state. The two districts were divided by the Loop which is the city’s central business district. This act earned the South Side a reputation of b eing the wrong side of the loop. However, this notion is now being lifted from the South Loop. Over the last two decades, investment of billions of dollars in development has helped transform the area that was once run down into a high end residential area of the Loop. One of the driving forces that revitalized the Southern Loop was the 80-acre Central Station development. 4 This development is considered the largest mixed-use development in the history of the history. Central Station replaced the abandoned tracks of the former Illinois Central Railroad that dominated the Near Southern Side for over a century. Originally costing about $3 billion, the Central Station development has a floor area of14 million square feet. 5It comprises 8,000 rental and for-sale homes, offices, retail space hotels, and space for specialized commercial use. The rental component includes market-rate and senior living apartments. The size of the development, its location, and history make it an integral p art of the city’s plans regarding the South Loop. Timothy B. Desmond, who was the master developer and president of Central Station Development Corporation, described the South Loop as the fastest-growing area in Chicago. He further added that Central Station would serve to promote further growth. True to his word, the South Loop has continued to see momentous growth in infrastructure and development. The Central Station Development Corporation was a joint venture between Cleveland-based Forest City Enterprises,Inc and Chicago-based Fogelson Properties,Inc.6 After the1989 purchase of the IC rail yard that was vacant, Gerald Fogelson, who was the chairman of Fogelson Properties decided to team up with Forest City in development of the Central station. This move was advised by the fact that Forest City had over 80 years of experience in nationwide development projects. During the early 1990s,

Racial profiling Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Racial profiling - Coursework Example Indeed, it has been increasingly common in light of the perceived threats to the population by Islamic terrorists. Thus, in airplanes, Islamic-looking individuals are subjected to inspections and interviews of an intensity that white people are not normally subjected to. The increasing numbers of crime, and the associations by people that these crimes emanate from race-based communities such as Hispanic communities, are also responsible for the growing trend towards racial profiling. While racial profiling is never really legislated as a policy in its explicit sense, the ever-widening range of methods that a law enforcement officer are allowed to employ allow the use of racial profiling as a legitimate strategy. We now proceed to discussing the costs against the benefits of racial profiling. Those who support racial profiling believe that a utilitarian approach must be taken. The argument is that because it is true that there are crimes which certain racial groups are more predisposed to committing than other racial groups, â€Å"special efforts at crime reduction directed at members of such groups are justified, if not required.† (Risse and Zeckhauser, 2004). This basically means that law and order is a more important consideration than improving racial relations or fighting racial inequality. Because crime has such pernicious effects on society, so the argument goes, the order of the day is to end it. In contrast, those who are opposed to racial profiling dispute the position that some races have a greater tendency to commit some crimes than others. Indeed, in a study conducted, the officers’ behaviour of racial profiling is not supported by any showing that the criminal acts in the predominantly white community were committed by African Americans (Meehan and Ponder, 2002). Of course, the deeper objection to racial