Realm of Elements free essay sample

REALM OF ELEMENTS: A MULTI-USER EDUCATIONAL GAME BASED ON THE PERIODIC TABLE OF ELEMENTS USING MULTIPOINT MOUSE SDK FOR YOUNG FILIPINO LEARNERS By Ephraim John B. We will write a custom essay sample on Realm of Elements or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Estrada Cornelio M. Yap Jr. SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES ATENEO DE DAVAO UNIVERSITY OCTOBER 2013 REALM OF ELEMENTS: A MULTI-USER EDUCATIONAL GAME BASED ON THE PERIODIC TABLE OF ELEMENTS USING MULTIPOINT MOUSE SDK FOR YOUNG FILIPINO LEARNERS A Thesis / Research Project presented to The Faculty of the Computer Studies Cluster Ateneo de Davao University In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Bachelor of Science in Information Technology By Ephraim John B. Estrada Cornelio M. Yap Jr. SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES ATENEO DE DAVAO UNIVERSITY OCTOBER 2013 Ateneo de Davao University COMPUTER STUDIES CLUSTER SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES P. O. Box 8016 Davao City Philippines Recommendation for Final Defense In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY, this UNDERGRADUATE THESIS / RESEARCH PROJECT entitled: REALM OF ELEMENTS: A MULTI-USER EDUCATIONAL GAME BASED ON THE PERIODIC TABLE OF ELEMENTS USING MULTIPOINT MOUSE SDK FOR YOUNG FILIPINO LEARNERS has been prepared and submitted by Ephraim John B. Estrada, and Cornelio M. Yap Jr. , and is recommended for FINAL DEFENSE. Christopher Aris O. Alviola Adviser Ateneo de Davao University COMPUTER STUDIES CLUSTER SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES P. O. Box 8016 Davao City Philippines Recommendation for Acceptance The faculty of Computer Studies Cluster of the Ateneo de Davao University accepts the Undergraduate Thesis entitled: REALM OF ELEMENTS: A MULTI-USER EDUCATIONAL GAME BASED ON THE PERIODIC TABLE OF ELEMENTS USING MULTIPOINT MOUSE SDK FOR YOUNG FILIPINO LEARNERS which has been prepared and submitted by Ephraim John B. Estrada and Cornelio M. Yap Jr. in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Bachelor Science in Information Technology. Jose Mari V. Freires Chair Panelist Oneil B. Victoriano Panelist Christopher Aris O. Alviola Adviser ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The accomplishment of this research project would not have been possible without the support and assistance of these wonderful people around us. Firstly, we would like to express our sincerest gratitude to our ever supportive and inspiring IT320 – Senior Project II professor, Ms. Michelle P. Banawan for always been there mentoring and guiding us and our section in every step of the success of our respective research projects. We would also like to express our gratitude to Mr. Christopher O. Alviola, our thesis adviser, for constantly being there for us in times of consultations and for willingly helping us out with his best knowledge and abilities for the betterment of this project. Our acknowledgment to this research project’s panelists, Mr. Jose Mari V. Freires and Mr. Oneil B. Victoriano, for they were the ones who critiqued and at the same time mentored and guided us for the enhancement of this thesis. We would like to thank selected teachers and students of the Holy Child College of DavaoJacinto Campus who have actively participated in the evaluation and testing of our project and for accommodating us each time we visit the school. We would also not forget to thank our friends and IT4A classmates who have served as motivators and as an active support group to us in finishing our thesis despite all odds and obstacles we have faced. Furthermore, we like to proudly acknowledge and express our appreciation to our beloved parents who helped us out in many aspects—financially, emotionally, and other gratifying adverbs. For without them, we would certainly not accomplish our thesis successfully. Their encouragement and continuous support truly served as an inspiration to us. Ad majorem Dei gloriam! TABLE OF CONTENTS ABSTRACT 1 Chapter 1 Background of the Study 1 Chapter 2 Technology Application Context 2 Chapter 3 Objectives of the Study 3 Chapter 4 Significance of the Study 3 Chapter 5 Scope and Limitations of the Study 4 Chapter 6 Review of Related Literature and Technology Applications 5 Chapter 7 Project Methodology 7 7. 1 Review and Selection of Tool and Platform 7 7. 2 Conceptualization and Design 8 7. 3 Development 9 7. 4 Evaluation and Testing 15 Chapter 8 Technology Background 16 Chapter 9 Results and Discussions 17 9. 1 Student Pre-test Results and Observations 17 9. 2 Student Pre-test Results and Observations 20 9. 3 Teacher Evaluation Results 22 9. 4 Deployment and Implementation 24 Chapter 10 Conclusion 25 Chapter 11 Recommendation and Future Work 25 Chapter 12 Definition of Terms 26 Chapter 13 References 26 APPENDIX i Pre-test Survey Questionnaire i Post-test Survey Questionnaire ii LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1: Research Design Diagram 7 Figure 2: Research Project Development Framework 9 Figure 3. 1: OnLoaded Method (Source Code Snippet) 10 Figure 3. 2: AssignCursor Class (Source Code Snippet) 11 Figure 3. 3: Assignment List (Source Code Snippet) 11 Figure 3. 4: AssignIcon Method (Source Code Snippet) 12 Figure 3. 5: AssignName Method (Source Code Snippet) 13 Figure 3. 6: AssignName Method (Source Code Snippet) 14 Figure 4. 1: Pre-test Survey Results 17 Figure 4. 2: Pre-test Results for the Game’s Features, Usability, and Interactivity 18 Figure 4. 3 (Photo) Students using the educational game with a single mouse 19 Figure 5. 1 Post-test Results for the Game’s Features, Usability, and Interactivity 20 Figure 5. 2 (Photo) Students using the educational game with multiple mice 21 Figure 5. 3: Post-test Survey Results (User Acceptance Test) 22 Figure 6. 1: Teacher Evaluation Results for the Game’s Features, Usability, Interactivity 22 Figure 6. 2: Teacher Evaluation Survey Results 23 Figure 6. 3: Teacher’s Evaluation Results on Topic and Content Materials 23 Figure 7: Deployment and Implementation Diagram 24 LIST OF TABLES Table 1: Descriptive Statistics Formulas 15 Table 2: Descriptive Statistics for Pre-test Results 18 Table 3: Descriptive Statistics for Post-test Results 20 Realm of Elements: A Multi-user Educational Game based on the Periodic Table of Elements using Multipoint Mouse SDK for Young Filipino Learners EPHRAIM JOHN B. ESTRADA AND CORNELIO M. YAP JR. , Ateneo de Davao University ABSTRACT Research relating to pedagogical practices indicated a positive impact of collaborative learning among students involved. However, current personal computer applications for collaborative learning are limited and poor. In most cases, these applications installed on personal computers can only serve one participating user at a time. In another way around, only few can participate and the rest are just mere onlookers—which means such learning applications lessens interactivity amongst its users, considering limited number of units available in the environment. Certainly, there are different kinds of game frameworks and technologies used for educational applications and games. The proponents shall utilize the Multipoint Mouse SDK offered by Microsoft to create a multi-user educational game, in Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) format, which allows many students to interact with the same computer at the same time, to promote student engagement and participation as well as interactivity in learning the periodic table of elements. Evaluation and testing for the educational game’s features, applicability, interactivity and usefulness factors were conducted with selected 20 student respondents and 3 teacher respondents. By comparing and analyzing test results when used in a single mouse versus in multiple mice, it showed significant difference in classroom engagement, student participation and collaboration. These results show a positive and encouraging impact by the multi-user educational game to the respondents’ classroom environment. Keywords: Multipoint Mouse SDK, Educational Game, Collaborative Learning 1. BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY In the recent years, technology continues to evolve and improves its capability, affecting every individual’s daily routines. Technology has wedged the different faces of life and redefined the way we live. One of the most common technologies used by people is the computer. The users of computers vastly increased and prospered since it was invented. Nowadays, computers in any form become an integral part of our lives due to its functionality. The purpose of computers has engaged into complexity which made everything possible beyond our thoughts. Now, the use of information and communications technology (ICT) for education is transforming the traditional classroom and encourages learners to progress outside of the 1 Estrada and Yap †¢ Page |2 four walls of classroom, is more personalized and has become a powerful motivational tool. The use of ICT in education is significantly helping developing countries to catch up with the education race—becoming a great equalizer and providing more access. The introduction of technology in the educational field has made the process of learning and knowledge sharing, an interactive and fun-filled activity. A positive and effective combination of education for children and technology could be a good impact on the advancement and preparation on young Filipino learner’s learning process. In advanced pedagogical practices, using Computer supported collaborative learning (CSCL) has become an essential part of the whole learning environment and the culture of learning. Children can find it fun to play with others and become engaged when they have the opportunity to share experiences with peers. Microsoft’s Multipoint Mouse SDK is one tool that we can utilize and leverage in developing an educational game based on the periodic table of elements that caters a collaborative experience to young Filipino learners. Multipoint Mouse SDK also greatly offers more interactivity on educational and e-learning tools, for it allows many learners to interact with the same computer at the same time. 2. TECHNOLOGY APPLICATION CONTEXT There are a lot of educational games for young learners that exist in the market, but most of these games cater only one person per computer, and if multiplayer option is offered and allowed, it requires some special hardware and software requirements to achieve such. Educational games consist of various rules, complexity, and for some, storylines. Of course, all of these elements must be collaborated seamlessly to the desired area of learning to make the idea and concept of the game easy to learn and understand. To attract users and learners, multimedia elements should also be embedded in the game such as graphics, text, and some animations. According to Microsoft, in a classroom of 30 children with only 3 PCs among them, 10 students’ crowd around each machine, while one student takes center position and controls the mouse. Other students point, gesture and compete for the control of the mouse, but they really have no direct control of the PC and often lose interest and shift their attention elsewhere. The proponents will try to solve this problem, by helping students to use a single PC to learn together versus having a â€Å"solo computer experience†. Additionally, educational applications, integrated with Multipoint Mouse SDK, offer a practical way to decrease student-to-PC ratios, and provide a platform for Windows education software developers to create collaborative learning applications. Our study seeks to create a multi-user educational game based on the periodic table of elements—without the hassle of intricate hardware and software requirements—that uses Microsoft’s Multipoint Mouse SDK. The Multipoint SDK is mostly written to be programmed in Visual C#, an object-oriented programming language developed as part of the . NET platform. For that reason, most applications are written in that language. Using the Visual Studio that has an extension which supports the Windows Presentation Estrada and Yap †¢ Page |3 Foundation (WPF), it is possible to develop applications with Multipoint capability in other languages, like C++ with Visual C++ or Basic, or Visual Basic. In this research project, the graphical user interface and other graphical elements will be designed using Adobe Photoshop, which offers various useful applications in generating rich and appealing visuals suitable for the multi-user educational game. 3. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY The general objective of the study is to develop multi-user educational game based in the periodic table of elements in integration with Microsoft Multipoint Mouse SDK. The specific objectives are: ? ? ? ? ? ? To develop a multi-user educational game with integration of Microsoft Multipoint Mouse SDK to support multi-user mouse handling To develop the multi-user game in Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) format with suitable and appropriate graphical elements To create controls in assigning teacher and student roles in using one’s individual mouse To include content materials for the educational game applicable and conform to the lessons in periodic table of elements in the local context To determine the significance of the multi-user educational game when used in single mouse versus multiple mice by evaluation and testing (pre-test, post-test, UAT) To promote student participation, engagement, and interactivity using the developed multi-user educational game in a classroom setting 4. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY The development of Multipoint Mouse SDK-integrated multi-user educational game based on the periodic table of elements will be beneficial to the students—particularly those in high school, as well as to their science teachers. This study is significant for all young Filipino Learners who wish to learn the periodic table of elements in a much fun and interactive manner using our Multipoint Mouse SDK— integrated multi-user educational game. This study may help them enjoy the change in active peer learning, welcome the opportunity to work cooperatively in small cohesive groups, and be most enthusiastic about using computers in the classroom. Their participation in the classroom activities will enable them to increase their interest in the subject. This study is also significant to teachers who wish to aid e-learning, specifically in the fundamentals of chemistry, in a fun, collaborating, and practical manner. The result of this Estrada and Yap †¢ Page |4 study may likewise challenge teachers to present a more engaging classroom experience that help pupils to work together and make the overcrowded classrooms feel smaller. This study is also contributable in the information technology area, specifically to developers of educational tools and games. This research project would also encourage education publishers to build interactive applications that allow multi-mouse handling to simultaneously engage on a single computer with integration of Multipoint Mouse SDK. Further improvements for the SDK in terms of functionalities and features can also, one way or another, be determined and analyzed via this study. Through collaborating Multipoint Mouse SDK with the educational game for basic chemistry, it enables one computer to serve many users simultaneously. Multipoint Mouse SDK does not only offer a more affordable and practical solution in the classroom environment, it also creates an active, collaborative learning experience that engages each and every learner. Furthermore, this research project is geared towards the better utilization of the abovementioned technology. 5. SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY The study will generally focus on developing a multi-user educational game that offers and promotes an effective and interactive way of learning the basics of chemistry, particularly about the periodic table of elements. Topics beyond the periodic table of elements such as about matter, atoms, solving chemical equations, stoichiometry, and others are not included as content materials in the multi-user educational game. Realm of Elements is an educational game suitable for classroom setting and is not offered as a tool for assessing individual learning of each pupil, e. g. for grading purposes. Instead, the game will serve as a tool, as derived from one of the research objectives, to promote significant interactivity, peer-collaboration, participation, and learning engagement (not assessment) amongst students using the multi-user educational game towards the study of periodic table of elements. There will be five (5) modules in the educational game which targets different areas of learning on the periodic table of elements. Since this is game application to be used on PCs, currently, this research project will only work in Windows Platform. All parts of this educational game are in English language. Other possible sensor techniques, market deployment, economic viability, and other privacy matters are not included in the scope of the study. There are several functionality limitations of Multipoint Mouse SDK. Multipoint Mouse cursors cannot interact with standard Windows controls such as the windows message box, the minimize button, maximize button, close button, and composite controls such as in scroll bars and combo boxes. Multipoint Mouse can only be activated in one Window and cannot be disabled after it has been instantiated. Using the SDK in a multiWindow application will cause the mouse pointer to freeze or to be hidden. On the proponent’s current Multipoint Mouse SDK version used, the functionality of getting mouse wheel scrolling state event was inadvertently disabled. Lastly, the SDK cannot return the same Device ID for the mouse when a mouse is unplugged or re-plugged. Estrada and Yap †¢ Page |5 6. REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS There have been set of applications developed using multiple devices within a collaborative context. The work of Villanueva et al. explains a development of a system in improving the collaboration possibilities among participants in face-to-face meetings and working groups. Participating users can collaborate through a shared zone using their own mobile devices, such as mobile phones, laptops, Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) devices, and the like. To be able to utilize the shared zone, the users have their own cursors so that they can identify themselves [Villanueva et al. 2010]. Shekhar et al. report their observations from an exercise conducted in India to help grades 9th and 10th teachers design games which promote collaborative learning. The authors have described a strategy for designing collaborative learning games, which is through active teacher participation. They present four key elements that are essential for teachers to successfully design games for learning: the affordances of the technology for which they are designing; a concept of how games will be incorporated in the teacher’s daily lessons; the concept of games and its interactivity; and an understanding of the pedagogical goal [Shekhar et al. 2011]. In another work by Gohlke et al. , the authors have built a set of wireless, mouse-like devices enhanced with rotating controllers that aims to integrate the flexibility and transparency of mouse interaction with the benefits of physical controllers. With the use of Microsoft Multipoint, their goal is to use such controllers for audio and video editing in a different environment, but with better flexibility [Gohlke et al. 2010]. Infante et al. present an application called Exchange—a collaborative learning application developed for wirelessly interconnected Pocket PCs. This application is devoted to engage students and their teacher in a face-to-face Computer Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) activity, in a Single Display Groupware mode. That is, three users interact on the same display using three different mouse devices being mediated by the technological network, while preserving the original collaborative interaction. When children work collaboratively together, they show increased participation in group discussions, demonstrate a more sophisticated level of discourse, and provide more intellectually valuable contributions to those discussions [Infante et al. 2009]. A study was conducted by Gupta R. et al. that evaluate single-mouse and multiplemice configurations for computer-aided learning in schools wherein access to PCs is inadequate because of financial constraints. The proponents of this related work developed a single display groupware solution that allows multiple computer mice to be used on a single PC simultaneously. They compared the groupware with single-user-and-singlemouse and multiple-user-single-mouse scenarios. Experiments were conducted with 238 students in rural India. They found out that multiple mouse configurations were observed to be at par with the single-user scenarios which suggests that the value of a PC can be practically multiplied by employing a multiple input, shared use design. Lastly, addition, a comparison of the two multiple mouse scenarios—collaborative and competitive—showed a striking difference in learning outcomes and user behaviors that is possible due to slight variations in interaction designs for multiple-mice. [Gupta R. et al. 2007]. Estrada and Yap †¢ Page |6 A study was done by Inkpen, et al. to address collaboration preference among children, via involving pairs of children through playing a puzzle-solving game using three various experimental set-ups: (1) a paper-based style of the game; (2) a computer-based style of the game using one mouse, and (3) a computer-based version of the game using two mice. The authors developed an application using C++ and Microsoft DirectX and utilized input from one or more USB mouse. The results of this study have shown that providing children with support for their collaborative interactions can enhance their performance of activity, engagement, and motivation [Inkpen et al. 1999]. Collazos, et al. presented a paper that proposes a model describing how to design socio-technical environments that will promote collaboration in group activities. A game was developed by the proponents of this paper based on this model. The tool was used to conduct experiments for studying the collaborative learning process. Testing with this system revealed some strength and weaknesses both in sociological and technological factors. Based on their obtained results, they have seen that it is not only important to design a tool supporting the collaboration process, but also to consider other aspects such as teacher’s participation and learning goals, in order to have an effective collaborative learning environment (CLE). The use of the proposed indicators allowed the authors to identify strengths and weaknesses of the CLE they have designed [Collazos et al. 2007]. Bederson, et al. has looked at experiments using collaborative storytelling software with an aim to encourage and teach collaboration [Bederson et al. 1999]. The same software was used by Stanton and Neale, who studied the social interaction of the collaborations. These studies had children working together with independent cursor on a visual drawing and storytelling tool, but then the scenarios were limited to two children per PC. The applications studied were meant to enhance collaboration in classroom settings, and in most cases the educational goal was to teach collaboration itself among students [Neale et al. 2003]. Gupta A. et al. proposed a strategy for designing collaborative learning games with due consultations with pedagogical experts. In their paper, they specifically described a strategy for designing collaborative learning games through and with active teacher participation. Together with the teachers, they have developed a unique design methodology that helped the authors and the teachers to design and create collaborative learning games that supplement classroom teaching. After the final exercise of the workshop conducted, together with the participating chemistry teachers, they had formulated a game for students to construct a compound using the list of elements and balancing the equation—opening an opportunity of inciting discussions among students on which elements to be used. A game for secondary level chemistry was also then implemented to serve as a prototype for large scale development. With all these presented, the authors also composed four key elements that are essential to successfully design collaborative games for learning: (1) the affordances of the technology for which they are designing; (2) a vision of how the games will be incorporated in the teacher’s daily lessons; (3) the concept of games and interactivity; and (4) an effective understanding of the pedagogical goal [Gupta A. et al. 2011]. Estrada and Yap †¢ Page |7 7. PROJECT METHODOLOGY Figure 1: Research Design Diagram This this study is divided into four (4) main parts namely: (1) Review and Selection of Tool and Platform, (2) Conceptualization and Design, (3) Development, and (4) Evaluation and Testing of the multi-user educational game (quantitative assessment on its features and functionalities) by selected student and teacher respondents. 7. 1 Review and Selection of Tool and Platform In this phase, the proponents shall review, evaluate, and select the tools and platforms necessary to develop the multi-user educational game with, of course, integration of Multipoint Mouse SDK. During this stage, the proponents considered a number of development environment to be utilized for the project such as using Adobe Flash Professional, Microsoft Visual Studio, and Microsoft Expression Blend. As we evaluated and reviewed each development applications, we decided to use Microsoft Visual Studio and Microsoft Expression Blend over other tools for the reason these development apps had more substantial documentations, are comparatively stable, and had more standardized processes in making Windows-based apps in light with the Multipoint Mouse SDK, for which we will ingrate in the course of developing our multi-user educational game. Graphics design and graphical interface and elements shall be made using Adobe Photoshop, a powerful multimedia application in creating rich visuals and graphics, suitable for our multi-user educational game. Estrada and Yap †¢ Page |8 7. 2 Conceptualization and Design This is the phase where the proponents gather topics and content materials (conducive and in line with the lessons about the periodic table of elements), design game activities and game types, and design the user interface and graphical components of the multi-user game. For the content materials, the proponents shall carefully pick the topics from various chemistry books and online resources and these shall be validated by science coordinators and teachers via the Department of Education and some academic institutions if the collected materials are suitable for the educational game based on the periodic table of elements. Regarding the number of questions, it shall be numbered ranging from 75 to 100 questions (or even more), depending on the module and shall be presented in a randomly manner. Next, the proponents shall design various game types and activities to cater student’s interest and entertainment in a way it can be utilized simultaneously, using multiple mice. Game types and activities may be based from games such as flash card games and memory games—the proponents shall develop these game types in a manner it can cater multiple users. In designing, the flash card games for the first three (3) modules, the proponents will have it base from Jefferson Lab’s Elements Flash Cards (http://education. jlab. org/elementflashcards/). Here, the goal of the game is to score as high as possible by answering correctly. Their version of the game is limited only in naming element names and symbols wherein no choices or options are given as the individual player must type the answer using a keyboard. Also, the questions or â€Å"flash cards† are given randomly and the player can set how many flash cards are to be drawn. As this version uses keyboard for answering, spelling and capitalization are also checked. However, our version of the flash card games shall be modified. This modification shall support multiple mouse handling, using the Multipoint Mouse SDK. The number of mouse connected (excluding teacher’s mouse) is the also the number of individual flash card that will appear at the main gameplay. The proponents will also consider hardware requirements of the game by designing the flash card game with choices (via clickable buttons) as the students will be only using a computer mouse. To avoid confusion in the single display game, each player has their own question box (user control) wherein they are restricted to go out beyond its premises. The questions are randomly presented and no questions will appear more than once if it is given to a player. The goal of our version of this game is to answer as many flash cards as the players can. According to Microsoft Multipoint Mouse SDK website, by leveraging multiple mice in educational tools helps students to be more participative and engaged with their lessons in a classroom setting, as reflected on case studies conducted. One of the modules designed and included in this research project is about mixing elements. This game module shall be primarily based on Aakar Gupta’s research (found in the related works part of this paper) in using multipoint devices for inducing collaborative learning. The proponents shall design a game module that enables multiple students to solve a problem by working together in a whole shared screen (unlike the flash card games where they are restricted to their own user control). In this module, the players will be Estrada and Yap †¢ Page |9 asked what elements are needed to solve the problem. They will need to click the necessary elements in order to solve the problem. They must work collaboratively in order to solve the problem as time given shall be limited. After picking the elements needed, all of the players must click the ‘Check’ button to verify their answer, of course before the time ends. The goal of this module is to help students familiarize common mixtures and compounds by working together in mixing various elements with limited time. Lastly, the graphical user interface and graphical elements of the game shall be designed by the proponents considering a number of factors such as colors, font types, shapes, forms, and even placements of elements. Colors to be used shall be complimentary to each other, and avoid mixing colors in the interface that is distracting for the users. The same thing goes with the font types, where the proponents will only use two (2) to three (3) fonts for the consistency of the design interface. Other graphical element, such as buttons and containers, shall be subjected to be complimentary and in harmony with each other in order create an appealing user interface suitable for the collaborative use of the educational game. 7. 3 Development Figure 2: Research Project Development Framework The figure shown above is the detailed version of third phase of the study’s research design. During this phase, the proponents shall be using Microsoft Visual Studio as Integrated Developer Environment (IDE). Microsoft Expression Blend and Adobe Photoshop will be used for most of the UI design, from buttons to containers. Multipoint Mouse SDK will be integrated by installing it initially, then make it as reference to the Visual Studio Project. Multipoint Mouse SDK’s instances shall be initialized in the main window. From this, the proponents shall try to tweak over very few default functions and Estrada and Yap †¢ P a g e | 10 methods offered by the SDK to support some features for the game not available by default such as modifying dictionary files to improve aesthetic button states. In loading the sets of questions, it shall be presented randomly. Questions are stored in XML files. Mouse actions and information are stored in a class together with the user’s name. These shall be altogether integrated using Microsoft Vis

buy custom The Contract Law essay

buy custom The Contract Law essay A contract can be defined as an agreement between two or more parties or organizations and the requirements that the contract forms are recognizable by the law. Therefore a contract law is an agreement between organizations that if one organization is dissatisfied with another, the law can intervene and make a judgment (Miller, 2009). Many organizations, for purposes of correlation with others, enter into contracts though many end up in the hands of the law due to various misunderstandings between the two. I many cases, the offering company always wins most of the case due to ignorance of the contract terms by the offered. For a contract to be enforceable, it must be legal, it must have an offer, it must be accepted by both parties and it must have considerations to both parties. It is therefore advisable to keenly read the terms and conditions of a contract before entering in to it. Body In our case here, we have two companies involved that are Clean and Tidy Ltd and PC Ltd. Clean and Tidy Ltd has been offering computer cleaning services to PC Ltd for four years now. It is seen that some computers are damaged and PC ltd is asking for compensations but Clean and Tidy Ltd look upon a clause that they had given to PC ltd. Before the cleaning took place, PC Ltd did not sign the contract. Clean and Tidy Ltd claims that they are only eligible to pay for any damages if they are notified in advance that the item damaged is particularly valuable, which PC ltd had not done. For the law to intervene in a contract case, it has to look at a number of things. First of all, was the clause incorporated as a term or a contract? It could be said that the clause was a term rather than a contract. This is because it was written at the back of slip of paper that Clean and Tidy had given to PC Ltd. For the clause to be termed as a contract, it has to be well defined at the front of the written contract. As in the case of Woodruff vs. Clarke Company Farm Bureau Cooperative Association, where a farmer purchased chicken for the purposes of laying eggs. Most of them died after illness and the farmer sued the seller. The seller pointed to the language on the receipts that he gave to the farmer that stated no warranties either express or implied have been made by the seller as to the condition of the poultry. The court ruled the case in favor of the seller though it questioned whether the language was conspicuous enough to draw the attention of the farmer. In the case of Clean and Tidy Ltd and PC Ltd, it can be seen that the clause was written at the back of a slip of paper and so it was not conspicuou at all to the PC ltd company to see. The court should rule the case in favor of the PC ltd company. Secondly, the terms of the contract should be visible and clear. As for the case of Henderson vs. Stevenson where a passenger travelling with luggage from Dublin to White haven on a ticket (Miller ,2009), which had a term written on the back which exempted the shipping company from liability for the loss of luggage. He never looked at the back of the ticket. He lost his luggage and sued for damages. He was entitled to damages as he was not bound by something which was not communicated to him. In our case here, it can be seen that the term on the Clean and Tidy Ltd being liable to pay for the damaged is not visible. It is situated at the back of a slip of paper that Pc Ltd was given. Therefore PC Ltd is entitled to damages and the law should rule the case in favor of it. Thirdly, timing of the notice also matters. The major question here is was the notice given before or during the contract period? As for the case of Ramsgate Victoria Hotel Co., vs. Montefiore where an individual offered to purchase shares in a company by writing a letter on June 8 (Kelly Anne, 2002). The company released the shares on 23rd November. The individual refused the shares. The law held to that the offer lapsed as it was not accepted within a reasonable time. In our case here, it can be seen that Clean and Tidy Ltd did not give their terms on damaged computers to PC Ltd on time or within a reasonable time. It was after the damage of the computers that the term came to light. The slip of paper that the term was written was given to PC Ltd on the day that Clean and Tidy Ltd cleaned the computers. This was too late since it was long after the contract was signed. Also, in our case here, the Clean and Tidys term was written on a slip of paper. If the conditions are contained in a separate document that is delivered after the contract is complete, then the offeree is not bound by them. Such document is taken as a non-contractual document as it is not supposed to contain the conditions of the contract. According to R.S. Deboo vs. M. V. Hindlekar, it cannot be assumed that the printed conditions that are on any document attached to the actual contract (Gilles, 2004), may it be a receipt or a piece of paper, automatically become contractual terms or part of it. Take for example this case; a person hired a chair from the municipal council in order to sit on the beach. He paid the rent and was given a ticket which had a clause on an attached slip of paper at the back that exempted the council for any accident or damage arising from the hiire of chairs. The person sustained injuries as he was sitting on the chair after it broke down. He sued the coun cil for damages. The law ruled that the council was liable for the persons injuries since the clause on the attached slip of paper do not automatically become contractual terms. This is according to Chapleton v. Barry U.D.C (Gilles, 2004). The other essential thing is the reasonability of the term of contract (Kelly Anne, 2002). In our case here, it can be seen that the term stated that Clean and tidy Ltd will not be responsible for any injuries or damages howsoever caused. The term then continues to say that the company will however pay a certain amount per computer damaged if it is informed in advance that the item is particularly valuable. This does not make sense at all. It either you are eligible or not. The term also states that it will pay a certain amount for a computer that is damaged if they are informed in advance of its value. This is an offer and for an offer to be valid, it must be communicated in time. In this case, it was not communicated to PC ltd and they were not aware of it. As for the case of Felthouse vs. Bindley a supplier sent a draft agreement relating to the supply of coal and coke to the manager of a railway company for his acceptance. The manager wrote the word approved on the draft and put it in a drawer with an intention of sending it to the supplier for a formal contract to be drawn up. The draft remained in the drawer. In this case, there is no contract since the manager had not communicated his acceptance to the supplier. In our case here, it can be seen that PC Ltd did not accept or respond to the offer that Clean and Tidy gave since they were not aware of it. The offer was revealed after the damages of the computers and therefore the law should rule the case in favor of PC Ltd since they were not aware of the offer and they even did not respond to it. Conclusion PC Ltd was not bound to the term that Clean and Tidy ltd gave on the damaged computers. First of all, the term was written on a slip of paper. Secondly, it seems that PC Ltd was not aware of the terms since they demanded compensation immediately there were damages on their computers. Thirdly, the term, having an offer in it was not communicated to the offeree. It was also communicated to the offeree at a very late stage when the damages had already occurred. Though, Clean and Tidy could however not be liable to the damages since they requested a notification of the value of the computers before cleaning them otherwise they are liable for the damages and they should compensate PC Ltd for them. Buy custom The Contract Law essay

Civil Disobedience Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Civil Disobedience - Essay Example Mack, like Rosa Parks, takes the smallest of moves and starts a chain reaction that results in freedom for all regardless of class/race distinctions. Rosa Parks and Mack are further connected by virtue of the fact that they both expose social injustice and oppression from the bottom down. Like, Rosa Parks, Mack is positioned at the lowest stratum of society and yet, they both dare to challenge an established regime. Where Rosa Parks is arrested for her challenge, Mack is reprimanded and reminded of his rightful place in the social order. In other words, both Mack and Parks are reminded by established authority of their rightful place in society. However, both emerge heroic. Mack emerges as the real king of the pond whereas, Parks becomes an historical icon symbolizing the civil rights movement. Thus Parks is associated with freedom and equality and Mack is likewise associated with freedom and equality. Parks and Mack are further united by their observance of and displeasure of the di sparity and oppression forced upon their peers. Both observe the reluctance and fear that accompanies obedience and both determined that something needed to be done to break the cycle. Therefore both Mack and Parks spoke out in different ways, but with the same outcome: freedom for all although Mack’s freedom came at lot easier and faster than Parks. Naturalize Me Naturalization is defined by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (2011) as the qualification process that non-US citizens must successfully complete before becoming US citizens. The qualifications are set forth by the US Congress and are reflected in the Immigration and Nationality Act (US Citizenship and Immigration Services, 2011). In other words, naturalization is a process by which foreigners obtain the right to be citizens of another country. In order to become naturalized under the US Immigration and Nationality Act, there are a number of qualifying factors. If the applicant has been permanently living in the US for a minimum period of five years and is eligible for citizenship, naturalization will occur. An individual is eligible for citizenship if the individual has had a green card for a minimum of five years prior to applying for naturalization. Other eligibility requirements are: resided in a state for a minimum of 3 months before applying for naturalization; is in the US for no less than 30 months of the five years prior to applying for naturalization; lives in the US between the time of applying and the time of naturalization; is literate in English and knows US government and history; and is of good character and adheres to the US Constitutions (US Citizenship and Immigration Services, 2011). An individual may also qualify for naturalization if that individual is qualified as a the spouse of a US citizen and has been permanently living in the US for at least 3 years. A spouse of a US citizen is qualified for naturalization if the foreign spouse had been married to and liv ing with their US spouse for at least three years as a green card holder; is at least 18 years old; the US spouse was a US citizen for the three years that the applicant lived with him or her; has resided in a US state for a minimum of 3 months before applying for naturalization and all other qualifications applicable to the acquisition of US citizenship (US Citizenship and Immigration Services, 2011). In addition, members of the US armed forces, their family and dependants are also

Public Finance Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4500 words

Public Finance - Assignment Example This deals with the cause that is behind the problem and assists the market in its efficient working; rather than substituting the market having complex propaganda involving too technical information, in other words unique service, a case for intervention in production and allocation of the service is highly possible. Synchronization problems may be prevented through the incorporation of public firms and thus market breakdown can be avoided. Co-ordination hazards are mainly prominent in the presence of huge and non-uniform groups of capable beneficiaries, anonymous shared concerns, high initial expense of synchronization, or, no inducement or mechanisms placed to defeat the problem of free rider.   Intervention for social fairness or equity causations are dependent on subjective verdicts and judgments made by democratically legally obligated politicians, still a market breakdown framework should be utilized by informing decisions and ensuring the desired effect is acquired in the b est effective way.    In the replica of a segment of flats, beneficial co-operation are held within a  parametrically small group having the same benefit, i.e., the advantages are non offensive. It is a Representation of an admixed public good. Persons and firms possibly accede to defeat market crashes where:   †¢ the capable beneficiaries are somewhat a not so large group and so the effort conceding and adjusting is low.   †¢ The probable beneficiaries are unvarying group5 and that is why the advantages are esteemed equally.   †¢ Although some assignees will have a ‘free ride’ on others investments   the confidential advantages of the considerate activities are supposed to be larger than the confidential expenses of consignment / adjustment.   †¢ There are lures or mechanisms for overcoming free riding. Top of Form Bottom of Form For other consequences, such as huge and non-uniform groups of expected beneficiaries, there is possibly an affair for civil interruption to encourage, authorize or speed the co-operation. Public interruption might include:   †¢ relieving few risks to the private abettors of initial expense of adjustment.   †¢ Mechanisms for administering collective verdicts to defeat the problem of free rider.   †¢ Mechanisms for persons with shared concernment to search for one another. As an example, promoting tourism possibly requires public sector consignment because the capable successors are a big and heterogeneous assemblage with some bargains likely to be beneficial more than all the other – it is attainable that both hotel keepers and business owners would benefit as a result of increase in tourist to London although the benefits of the hoteliers possibly is greater.   Civil sector consignment may also become a necessity to react to the massive events which impact many people, like a natural disaster which can also cause temporary distresses to market. In cases lik e this, only the civil sector usually has the capacity of organizing and mobilizing a tactical reaction.  (Musgrave, 2004; Brown and Jackson, 1990). Why should the public sector intervene in the economy? Some goods as well as some services maintain few specific trends, which definitely tell us that in an open competitive market

Is spanking your child effective discipline or bad parenting Research Paper

Is spanking your child effective discipline or bad parenting - Research Paper Example e people see spanking as an outdated method of punishment or even child abuse, while others view a swat on the bottom as a parents prerogative and if done correctly can be effective. Do you agree with this? Where do we draw the line when it comes to disciplining our children? There has been a huge amount of research on the effectiveness of corporal punishment of animals, but remarkably little on the effectiveness of spanking children. This may be because almost no one feels the need to study it because everyone assumes it is effective. Study after study shows that almost 100 percent of parents with toddlers and young children do hit their children. There seems to be many reasons for the strong supporters of spanking children, but they all seem to be myths. Wikopedia: In its original sense, discipline is systematic instruction intended to train a person, in a craft, trade or other activity, or to follow a particular code of conduct of order. Often, the phrase "to discipline" carries a negative connotation. This is because enforcement of order–that is, ensuring instructions are carried out–is often regulated through some type of punishment. Spanking is the act of striking the buttocks of another person to cause temporary pain without producing physical injury. It generally involves one person striking the buttocks of another person with an open hand. When an open hand is used, spanking is referred to in some countries as slapping or smacking. More severe forms of spanking, such as switching, paddling, belting, caning, whipping, and birching, involve the use of an implement instead of a hand. It is most commonly used to discipline an infant, a child, or a teenager. It generally involves an adult – typically a parent, guardian, or teacher – striking the childs buttocks as punishment for unacceptable behavior. Some countries have outlawed the spanking of children in every setting, but many allow it at least when administered by a parent or guardian. Some

The Functions of Beta Carotene

The Functions of Beta Carotene Unlike supplements, foods rich in beta-carotene pose no lung cancer risk. Synthetic beta-carotene supplements have been found to increase the risk of both colorectal and lung cancer in smokers, especially those who also drink alcohol. A study published by an international team in the January 2004 issue of Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers and Prevention indicates that beta-carotene consumed as part of whole foods has no such negative effects. This study, which pooled data from seven large cohort studies running between 7 and 16 years and involving a subject population of 399,765 participants in North America and Europe, found that beta-carotene from foods was not associated with any increased risk of lung cancer among current smokers or non-smokers. Other carotenoids in foods (lutein, zeaxanthin and lycopene) were also found to have no association with lung cancer risk. (February 26, 2004) Food sources of beta-carotene include sweet potatoes, carrots, kale, spinach, turnip greens, winter squash, collard greens, cilantro and fresh thyme. To maximize the availability of the carotenoids in the foods listed above, the foods should be eaten raw or steamed lightly. For serving size for specific foods, see Nutrient Rating Chart below at the bottom of this page. Content (Jump to) Description Function Deficiency Symptoms Toxicity Symptoms Cooking, storage and processing Factors that affect function Drug-nutrient interaction Nutrient interaction Health conditions Supplements Food Sources Recommendations Description What is beta-carotene? Beta-carotene is probably the most well known of the carotenoids, a phytonutrients family that represents of the one most widespread groups of naturally occurring pigments. It is one of the most abundant carotenoids in the North American diet as well as one of approximately 50 carotenoids known as provitamin Acompounds, able to be converted in the body into retinol, an active form of vitamin A. While beta-carotene produces colors in the orange and yellow range, beta-carotene rich foods may be other colors besides from these two. That is because other phytonutrients pigments blend together with the beta-carotene to give the plant food its unique hue that, in addition to orange or yellow, could be other colors including pink, red or white. How it Functions What are the functions of beta-carotene? Preventing Vitamin A Deficiency Until late in the 20th Century, the functions of carotenoids, including beta-carotene, were discussed only in terms of their potential vitamin A activity. Beta-carotene is one of approximately 50 carotenoids of the known 600, that are called provitamin A compounds because the body can convert them into retinol, an active form of vitamin A. As a result, foods that contain beta-carotene can help prevent vitamin A deficiency. In addition to alpha-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin, beta-carotene is among the most commonly consumed provitamin A carotenoids in the North American diet. Antioxidant Immune-Enhancing Activity In recent years, carotenoids including beta-carotene have received a tremendous amount of attention as potential anti-cancer and anti-aging compounds. Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant, protecting the cells of the body from damage caused by free radicals. It is also one of the carotenoids believed to enhance the function of the immune system. Promoting Proper Cell Communication In addition to their antioxidant and immune-enhancing activity, carotenoids including beta-carotene have shown the ability to stimulate cell to cell communication. Researchers now believe that poor communication between cells may be one of the causes of the overgrowth of cells, a condition which eventually leads to cancer. By promoting proper communication between cells, carotenoids may play a role in cancer prevention. Supporting Reproductive Health It is also believed that beta-carotene may participate in female reproduction. Although its exact function in female reproduction has not yet been identified, it is known that the corpus luteum has the highest concentration of beta-carotene of any organ in the body, suggesting that this nutrient plays an important role in reproductive processes. Deficiency Symptoms What are deficiency symptoms for beta-carotene? A low dietary intake of carotenoids such as beta-carotene is not known to directly cause any diseases or health conditions, at least in the short term. However, if your intake of vitamin A is also low, a dietary deficiency of beta-carotene and/or other provitamin A carotenoids can cause the symptoms associated with vitamin A deficiency. In addition, long-term inadequate intake of carotenoids is associated with chronic disease, including heart disease and various cancers. One important mechanism for this carotenoid-disease relationship appears to be free radicals. Research indicates that diets low in beta-carotene and carotenoids can increase the bodys susceptibility to damage from free radicals. As a result, over the long term, beta-carotene deficient diets may increase tissue damage from free radical activity, and increase risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancers. Toxicity Symptoms What are toxicity symptoms for beta-carotene? A tell-tale sign of excessive consumption of beta-carotene is a yellowish discoloration of the skin, most often occurring in the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. This condition is called carotenodermia, and is reversible and harmless. High intake of carotenoid-containing foods or supplements is not associated with any toxic side effects. As a result, the Institute of Medicine at the National Academy of Sciences did not establish a Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for carotenoids when it reviewed these compounds in 2000. However, the results of two research studies indicate that those who smoke heavily and drink alcohol regularly, may increase their chance of developing lung cancer and/or heart disease if they take beta-carotene supplements in amounts greater than 20-30 milligrams per day. Impact of Cooking, Storage and Processing How do cooking, storage, or processing affect beta-carotene? In certain cases, cooking can improve the availability of carotenoids in foods. Lightly steaming carrots and spinach improves your bodys ability to absorb carotenoids in these foods. It is important to note, however, that in most cases, prolonged cooking of vegetables decreases the availability of carotenoids by changing the shape of the carotenoid from its natural trans-configuration to a cis-configuration. For example, fresh carrots contain 100% all-trans beta-carotene, while canned carrots contain only 73% all-trans beta-carotene. Factors that Affect Function What factors might contribute to a deficiency of beta-carotene? Carotenoids are fat-soluble substances, and as such require the presence of dietary fat for proper absorption through the digestive tract. Consequently, your carotenoid status may be impaired by a diet that is extremely low in fat or if you have a medical condition that causes a reduction in the ability to absorb dietary fat such as pancreatic enzyme deficiency, Crohns disease, celiac sprue, cystic fibrosis, surgical removal of part or all of the stomach, gall bladder disease, and liver disease. Due to low consumption of fruits and vegetables, many adolescents and young adults do not take in enough beta-carotene. In addition, if you smoke cigarettes and/or drink alcohol, you may have lower than normal blood levels of beta-carotene. Statistically speaking, smokers and drinkers eat fewer foods that contain carotenoids such as beta-carotene. Also, researchers suspect that cigarette smoke destroys carotenoids. However, if you do smoke or drink, use carotenoid supplements with caution (see Toxicity section). Drug-Nutrient Interactions What medications affect beta-carotene? The cholesterol-lowering medications referred to as bile acid sequestrants (Cholestyramine, Colestipol, and Colestid) lower blood levels of carotenoids. In addition, margarines enriched with plant sterols such as Benecol and Take Control, may decrease the absorption of carotenoids. Olestra, a fat substitute added to snack foods, may also decrease the absorption of carotenoids. Nutrient Interactions How do other nutrients interact with beta-carotene? Beta-carotene supplements reduce blood levels of lutein while they may also increase blood levels of beta-cryptoxanthin. Supplementing your diet with pectin may decrease the absorption of carotenoids. Health Conditions Carotenoids may play a role in the prevention of the following health conditions: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Age-related macular degeneration Angina pectoris Asthma Cataracts Cervical cancer Cervical dysplasia Chlamydial infection Heart disease Laryngeal cancer (cancer of the larynx) Lung cancer Male and female infertility Osteoarthritis Photosensitivity Pneumonia Prostate cancer Rheumatoid arthritis Skin cancer Vaginal candidiasis Form in Dietary Supplements What forms of beta-carotene are found in dietary supplements? In dietary supplements, beta-carotene is available as synthetic all-trans beta-carotene, beta- and alpha-carotene from the algae Dunaliella, and mixed carotenes from palm oil. It is important to note, however, that, due to the inconsistent results from research studies aimed at evaluating the health benefits of beta-carotene supplements, the National Academy of Sciences cautions against taking high dose carotenoid supplements, except as a method for preventing vitamin A deficiency. Food Sources What foods provide beta-carotene? Beta-carotene can be found in concentrated amounts in a variety of foods including sweet potatoes, carrots, kale, spinach, turnip greens, winter squash, collard greens, cilantro, fresh thyme, cantaloupe, romaine lettuce and broccoli. Food Source Analysis not Available for this Nutrient Public Health Recommendations What are current public health recommendations for beta-carotene and carotenoids? To date, no recommended dietary intake levels have been established for carotenoids. In an effort to set such recommendations, the Institute of Medicine at the National Academy of Sciences reviewed the existing scientific research on carotenoids in 2000. Despite the large body of population-based research that links high consumption of foods containing beta-carotene and other carotenoids with a reduced risk of several chronic diseases, the Institute of Medicine concluded that this evidence was not strong enough to support a required carotenoid intake level because it is not yet known if the health benefits associated with carotenoid-containing foods are due to the carotenoids or to some other substance in the food. However, the National Academy of Sciences supports the recommendations of various health agencies, which encourage individuals to consume five or more servings of fruits and vegetable every day. This level of intake of fruits and vegetables provides approximately three to six milligrams of beta-carotene.

Euthanasia Essay -- Euthanasia Essay

Euthanasia is the practice of ending a life to release an individual from suffering an incurable disease or intolerable pain. Having to lay in bed twenty-four hours a day is no way to live a life. People that suffer from a serious illness should have the right to die by euthanasia. In 1991, a national telephone survey was conducted which posed the question, â€Å"If you were terminally ill, what would you want for yourself?† Fifty-two percent of one thousand four in the US said that they’d consider assisted suicide or euthanasia. Among the reasons cited were that the people wouldn’t want to burden others, live in pain, or be dependent on machines. All Americans have the right to die because the Constitution grants us the right to privacy and the right to pursue happiness. People should have the right to take their lives if they are totally dependent on others or machines. Ones that depend on other people to care for them only feel like a burden. Being a burden to a loved one makes the sick feel even worse then they do already because of their illness. People that are alive only because of machines really don’t have a life. If they didn’t have machines, they’d be dead, so why aren’t they allowed to die? Americans have the rights that are in the Constitution. When dealing with euthanasia, people have to look at what Constitutional rights give people the right to die. Americans have the right to privacy. Privacy to ones body is a strong re...

Organizational Behavior Case Study Using

Abstract We chose to look at a military case that was exposed by the media last year in which Brigadier General (BG) James BG Botchie of the United States Air Force was accused of conduct that was unbecoming of an officer. By examining the roots of classical organizational theory as well as the systems theory approach to management, we will be able to see what aspects and principles should be better utilized and enforced in order to prevent such incidences from reoccurring. ? Organizational Behavior Case Study UsingClassical Organization Theory and Systems Theory In order to see where Brigadier General James Botchie’s management went wrong, we will use the classical organization theory and systems theory to evaluate his action and decisions. To provide support to our conclusion, Tommy will share a personal encounter he had with BG Botchie. Quotes from various texts will also offer support to our position that BG Botchie’s approach to management was not only ineffective, but also inappropriate for an officer in the United States Air Force.Classical Organization Theory While some aspects of classical organizational theory can be considered out of date, it has been constantly progressing over the past century to better suit current workplace environments. From Taylor’s scientific management theory to Weber’s bureaucratic theory all the way to Mooney and Reiley’s administrative theory, classical organizational theory has developed some of the most fundamental principles to help better manage people in the workplace.In order to effectively understand how classical organization theory could help a situation, such as the one regarding Brigadier General James Botchie as reported by the Air Force Times, one must first look at the basic principles behind the theory. One of the four central points in Frederick Taylor’s scientific management theory is to, â€Å"closely supervise workers, and use reward and punishment as motivators † (Kinicki & Kreitner, 2009). In BG Botchie’s situation, he provided little to no supervision to his subordinates and was described as â€Å"hands-off, uninformed and at times uncaring† (Fontaine 2). This lack of upervision caused the military equal opportunity office (MEO) to be an unorganized and nonproductive environment that allowed discrimination and intimidation to go undisciplined and undocumented in many cases. Another â€Å"Taylorism† stated that â€Å"the task of management is planning and control† (Walonick, 1993). From what the Air Force Times showed, BG Botchie did not follow either of these guidelines. Military organizations require all parties to abide by strict codes of conduct in order to function as a well-oiled machine. BG Botchie’s actions not only reflect poorly on his work ethics, but also his moral ethics.He did not act as is expected of a United States serviceman; â€Å"†¦Personnel are expected to conduct themsel ves in accordance with the highest standards of personal and professional integrity and ethics. At a minimum, all personnel shall comply with directives issued by the Secretary of Defense†¦ regarding the Standards of Conduct and Government Ethics. † (Dalton, 1997). Much like the rank levels involved in military organizations, Max Weber’s bureaucratic theory â€Å"emphasized the need for a hierarchical structure of power† (Walonick, 1993).In order to continue maintaining control among soldiers or workers alike, there is a need for definite rules and a â€Å"clear line of authority and control† (Kinicki & Kreitner, 2009). BG Botchie allowed this line to become blurred when he developed friendships with his subordinates. Not only did this lead to unprofessional conduct in the form of creating an inner â€Å"boys only† clique that harassed female coworkers, it also raised an ethical dilemma in that BG Botchie engaged in business deals with subordin ates and possibly used government resources to further his profits (Fontaine 4).There is a reason for positions of authority and that is to maintain control and productivity in the office. BG Botchie instead used his authority to foster sexual harassment and gender discrimination, build unprofessional relationships and misappropriate government resources for his own benefit (Fontaine 1). Mooney and Reilly’s administrative theory proved to be the most rigid out of the classical organization theories. This theory put the emphasis on â€Å"establishing a universal set of management principles that could be applied to all organizations† (Walonick, 1993).It is now realized that this is not possible with the fast paced changing of times; however, this method could be used to help remedy the inconsistencies that occurred in BG Botchie’s wing. For example, if there was a uniform set of rules and procedures set in place and enforced regularly, people like BG Botchie woul d not have a chance to abuse their power. Throughout examining the classical organizational approach to resolving Brigadier General James Botchie’s erroneous behaviors, the key solution is enforcement of hierarchy.None of this would have occurred if BG Botchie’s superiors had paid closer attention to his actions. While people in positions of authority should not have to instill fear in order to get results, they should be treated with the respect they deserve. That respect facilitates efficiency and respect for fellow coworkers as well. By maintaining the proper order of ranks, work is accomplished as a result of a sense of pride in work and duty to one’s job. In addition to an increase in productivity, the level of discrimination and harassment would decline for fear of punishment.When the rules are enforced and there are positive and negative repercussions for behaviors, people are more inclined to follow the regulations set forth. Simply put, to avoid negativ e situations, such as BG Botchie’s, enforce the rules and regulations that are set forth. Systems Approach This situation could have also benefited from the systems approach to the Ohio Air National Guard Organization. The United States Air Force maintains a strict code of conduct as an entire organization and also employs separate, more detailed rules and regulations for those enlisted and those who are officers.The enlisted ranks are seen as the workers or followers to the officer ranks. The officer ranks are seen as the leaders of the organization and they are expected to set the tones for how those that follow them are to conduct themselves. Rules are established to help keep the distinction between the appointed leaders and those who are the followers and to prevent any bias from effecting promotions or allowing preferential treatment from the leaders of the organization. Brigadier General James Botchie was fortunate to experience both the leader and follower sides of th e Air Force.BG Botchie started out in the enlisted ranks before he was commissioned to the officer ranks. I had the opportunity to work for BG Botchie after the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Centers in 2001. He was the flight commander and highest ranking officer for the mission. As a unit, the 121st Air Refueling Wing (ARW) was assigned to support Operation Enduring Freedom at the Incirlik Air Base in Turkey. My job as an enlisted worker was for various electronic functions of our airplane.My ultimate goal was to make sure that the pilots could complete their mission, which required all of the aircraft to be operational. We accomplished this mission and pleased BG Botchie. He attempted to reward us (the enlisted workers) with alcoholic beverages in an enlisted only establishment. I tell you this story to give yet another example of the rules being established and BG Botchie acting as though he was above them and as if there would be no ramifications for breaking them. S ystems theory can be described as having all components of an organization interrelated.By changing one variable, many others may also be effected (Kinicki & Kreitner, 2009). Modern day management has to understand that the decisions imposed on one part of an organization can have a great impact on other members of the organization, even if they are not directly related to the initial decision. BG Botchie’s decisions were not thoroughly thought out and he did not consider the impact that they would have across the organization. The decisions he made for his immediate group not only affected the morale, behavior, and work ethics, but it also reached throughout the entire Air National Guard.The 121st ARW is always partnered with other units from all across the United States. This behavior is observed by others who may have had a different managerial style and expectation. This is also evident in the following quotes: â€Å"The organizational systems theory also infuses a cultu re that is transformed to a learning environment. A creative learning environment will also help the organization and its members realize that the small decisions made today may affect a global impact tomorrow† (Smith & Taylor, 2000). The Central premise behind holding a vision is that somehow I can shape my future, systems’ thinking helps us see how our own actions have shaped our current reality, thereby giving us confidence that we can create a different reality in the future† (Smith & Taylor, 2000). BG Botchie did not infuse the culture with the set of values and morals that the USAF instilled in his appointment as commanding general. If Brigadier General James Botchie analyzed his decisions using the systems approach for his managerial and decision based processes, his career may have had a different outcome.Conclusion In conclusion, it is generally in everyone’s best interest to abide by the rules and regulations of an organization since they are set forth as a way to maintain order and protection for the employees. The classical organization theory and systems theory have clear cut principles that help to build a strong organization, when the policies are followed correctly. Having employees that respect the hierarchy of the organization is also essential to a successful workplace.Brigadier General James Botchie did not follow these guidelines and it cost him the respect of his peers and nearly cost him his job.? Bibliography Dalton, J. H. (1997). General Regulations: Administration of Discipline. U. S. Navy Regulations, 1990 Interim Change, 101-102. Fontaine, S. (2012, May 23). Report Details 1-star's Inappropriate Conduct. Retrieved from Air Force Time Mobile: http://www. airforcetimes. com/mobile/index. php? storyUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww. airforcetimes. com%2Fnews%2F2011%2F04%2Fair-force-ig-details-conduct-BG Botchie-041811w%2F Kinicki, A. & Kreitner, R. (2009). Organizational Dynamics and Human Behavior. The McGraw-Hill Compani es Inc. Smith, K. D. , & Taylor, W. G. (2000). The learning organisation ideal in Civil Service organisations: deriving a measure. The Learning Organization, 194-205. University, C. M. (2008). In Administration, Globalization and Multiculturalism (pp. 25, 30, 79, 360). McGraw Hill Companies, Inc. Walonick, D. S. (1993). Organizational Theory and Behavior. Retrieved from http://statpac. org/walonick/organizational-theory. htm

The horror film Scream Essay Example

The horror film Scream Essay Example The horror film Scream Essay The horror film Scream Essay The horror film Scream was released in 1997, the director a Mr Wes Craven was trying to aim the film at young teenagers. Although the film has blood and guts it also has psychological side to it because in quite a bit of the film when the viewer is watching it the killer will say something like do you like scary movies? this indicates that the movie is scary and that this is the killer speaking. In the film, the killer plays with you mind by speaking to the victim on the phone to find out information about her by flirting with her then the victim feels overwhelmed and starts to tell the unknown killer thing about her then the killer will use that information on her to scare her then he knows that he is in control. Usually the telephone is used to call for help or in an emergency but in this situation the phone is used to scare the victim and also to get into the victims mind. You can see that the film is aimed at teenagers because most of the characters are young teenagers so this should tell you quite a lot of information about the age group the film is aimed at. This movie is a typical teen horror movie you can see this because the killer always plays ends up killing a character that is not such a big part the main victim never ever gets killed. After watching and listening to the opening title screen this gets the viewer in the mood for the movie. The movie is quite scary in parts this is where the director tries to keep you on the edge of your seat also he uses the phone to build up the tension because when the victim is getting chased the viewer will be shouting for the victim to run because we have got to know her and we like her. As you watch the film you can start to see that Casey has a very loving relationship with her parents you can see that they trust her because they left her in the house on her own with shows that they trust her. Also they must love her very much because when they walk in the house and see all the smoke they dont say what has happened the very first thing they do is shout for Casey and start searching for her and when they cannot find her they phone the police. When her mother picks up the phone to ring the police she can hear her daughter at the other end getting killed the only thing they can do is listen and shout to her because it must be horrible to listen to your daughter being killed so they cannot listen to this but also they cannot put the phone down because they will feel guilty. Caseys parents are helpless because they cannot help her at all. The opening title to the film is very well suited to the film. At the beginning of the title the word scream flashes white and red then changes into blue and at the end of they explode. The opening titles make the watcher think of blood and horror, which is the main feature for a movie of this nature. The house that Casey lives in is very clean and the colours in the house are very light and bright the colours are a contrast of white and cream. When the killer begins to take over Casey and starts to threaten her the house becomes darker and spooky as if the killer is in her mind. After this you begin to see that she is in the middle of nowhere and how big the house actually is. This is the perfect setting for a murder because it is in the middle of nowhere. I think that Wes Craven chose to have Casey killed in her own home to show that even you are not safe in your own home. At the beginning of the film, when the killer is on the phone he is very polite and charming then after a while he begins to speak in a deeper voice then eventually he cracks and shouts at her he says no listen you little bitch speak to me again and Ill gut you like a fish. The fist time we see the killer is in the hall as he dashes past but he is just a blur. He is not dressed normally he has a white ghost mask on he is holding a knife he has boots on and a long hooded cloak with black pants. Although the fist time we see him in a close up is at the window when Casey is outside and she peers through the window sees the killers face with a mask on then he smashes through the window and grabs Casey. When we see the killer on screen he does not speak because if he does then the victim might know who the killer is and he might get caught. Also the lighting in the film is very suited to the film as in the beggining the film is very light beacuse this implies happines and this is because the victim is happy. Casey does not know that she is goning to die and the fact that she is getting ready to watch a movie, as the killer rings casey and as he starts to get into her mind the house then becomes much darker.

Venerate

Venerate Venerate Venerate By Maeve Maddox This odd use of the verb venerate occurs on a funeral home website: Prior to the age of photography, death masks were used to venerate the death. The use is odd because the transitive verb venerate means â€Å"to regard with feelings of respect and reverence.† The taking of a death mask may be seen as a way of venerating a deceased person, but not a death. The Latin verb venerare gives us the verb venerate and the adjective venerable. The words are used in both religious and secular contexts: While far from universal, ancestor veneration occurs in societies with every degree of social, political, and technological complexity. While Horus was venerated throughout Egypt, his primary cult centers were in the south.   Kissing the Black Stone–Veneration or an Idolatrous Practice? Why Do We Venerate the Holy Cross? Upon Gary Smith’s retirement: The venerated Sports Illustrated writer on long-form immersion and intimacy The book discusses the extreme veneration of technology. Generation gap: Older folks venerate patriotic symbols, while younger folks extol principles. The adjective venerable (worthy of respect or worship) may be applied to people or things. The respect may be seen to stem from character, position, age, or antiquity. Author of Stupid Men Jokes Nancy Gray calls Washington DC â€Å"that venerable bastion of maledom.† Anti-equality advocates, like Princeton professor  Robert George and his co-authors, are attempting to cast this movement as an attack on the venerable institution of marriage.   The doctrine of re-birth - that is, the repeated embodiment of the inner essence of man - is the oldest and most venerable belief of the human race. It was also great to see such venerable actors as Dick Van Dyke, Mickey Rooney, and Bill Cobbs, as the three elderly security guards, strut their stuff. In some religions, Venerable is an honorific prefixed to the names of especially respected leaders: Buddhist Ethics by Venerable K. Sri Dhammananda Maha Thera The Venerable Dr. Jean Fritz Bazin, [Episcopal] Archdeacon for Immigration and Social Justice In the Roman Catholic process of canonization, Venerable is a title bestowed on a candidate for sainthood before the approval of the first miracle. The person most associated with the title Venerable in English is a medieval monk named Bede (672-735 CE). Bede is venerated as the father of English history. Because of his dedication to scholarship and religious observance, he was honored with the title Venerable even in his lifetime. He doesn’t seem to have undergone the official canonization process, but in 1899, Pope Leo XIII declared him a Doctor of the Church. He is often referred to as â€Å"Saint Bede,† but more commonly as â€Å"the Venerable Bede.† Bottom line: People and things are venerated. Respected people and things are venerable. The transitive verb venerate takes a direct object–human or inanimate–that is felt by someone to be worthy of respect. The funeral home writer may have been reaching for the word commemorate (to mark by ceremony): Prior to the age of photography, death masks were used to commemorate the death. Note: Although the word worship is often given as a synonym for venerate, many speakers distinguish between the two words, using venerate to denote deep respect for non-divine things or personages and reserving worship to describe the adoration of a divinity. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Vocabulary category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:What Is Irony? (With Examples)Between vs. In BetweenShore It Up

Cash Flow Statement Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Cash Flow Statement - Coursework Example When the business makes repayment of principal loan, the repayment is made from the net income or earnings. This transaction is not included in the cash flow because they are going toward settlement of business loan. Net income is prepared based on the general accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Under the accrual accounting principle, expenses are matched with revenues earned in that accounting period (Rich, 2010, p. 56). For instance, a business purchase and pays for merchandise in May, assuming that the merchandise remain in inventory until it is sold in November (end of the accounting period of the business). To this end, business’ net operating cash flow decreases in May when the business pays for the merchandise. However, the net income figure decreases in November when the cost of goods sold is matched with the November sales. Question 2 The main difference between direct and indirect method of cash flow is on the presentation of net cash flow from operating activities. Operating cash flow under direct cash flow statement adds major operating cash receipts and subtracts major operating cash payments. The cash payments are subtracted cash receipt of the business to arrive at the net cash flow from operating activities. The two companies are consistent in using the indirect method of cash flow statement. In addition, EA GAMES and UBISOFT recorded an increase in the net operating cash flow activities due to increase in net income and proper management of working capital.

Fuedal Relationships in Beowulf Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Fuedal Relationships in Beowulf - Essay Example Beowulf explains feudal relationships by his three battles and funerals in favor to get fame and recognition in his poem. Feudal relationships were well defined in the Beowulf’s first battle referred to as Grendel. This would be elucidated in the story of King Hroogar who was the builder of the prestigious tower known as Heorot for his people. His wife Wealhboeow and his soldiers spent their time partying and singing in the hall until Gredell, a mammoth who is irritated by the rejoicing, attacks the hall, kills and demolishes Hroogar’s fighters as they sleep. Nonetheless, Grendel does not interfere with Hroogar’s authority as it is termed to be considered by a powerful god. Hroogar and his followers, deserted against Grendel’s attacks leave Heorot. Beowulf, a fresh fighter from Geatland, overhears of Hroogar’s predicaments and goes to assist Hroogar. Beowulf and his followers spent the night in the Heorot with no weapon as Grendel is resistant to hu man arms, and it would be unfair over the defenseless monster. Soon after Beowulf slept, Grendel gets into the building, attacks and demolishes one of the men. Beowulf has been faking sleep and jumps into clamp Grendel’s hand. ... In the second fight, Beowulf demonstrates feudal relationships (Murphy and Sullivan), as he is motivated to fight Grendel’s mother by the assurances that he has been promised by the Hroogar. Beowulf specifies several conditions to Hroogar in the event of his death including taking over his warriors and estates. Beowulf trails Grendel’s mother to her residence underneath the lake. He jumps in to the lake; he is quickly identified and attacked by Grendel’s mother. Nevertheless, she is not able to attack him and drags him to the sides of the lake. In a cave having Grendel’s body and the leftovers of the men that the two have killed, the two are involved in a brutal fight. Owing that Beowulf is determined to win this battle in favor of Hroogal he kills Grendel’s mother and eventually becomes a king. This demonstrates that in those eras, people would be involved in evil in pursuit of prominence and recognition. According to Beowulf’s poem, Feudal relationships are explained in the third battle as it clearly illustrate that Beowulf is ready to die in the battle with the dragon in the course of revenge. Beowulf with his combatants is determined to fight the dragon to retaliate the burning of everything that was visible by the dragon. Due to the greed for prominence and recognition of Beowulf as a king, he decides to fight the dragon alone to the expense of his life. Unfortunately, in the course of fight, Beowulf is wounded and killed by the dragon. In the feudal relationships, it was the responsibility of the kinfolks to retaliate to their enemies to expense of their lives or by dying in the battle. In the feudal relationships, funerals of the heroes who were killed by fame hungry men contributed to naming the m as heroes. Beowulf’s poem argues that in the