Language Development of Deaf Infants and Children Essay

Language Development of Deaf Infants and Children My essay topic is the language development of deaf infants and children. In my opinion, this is an important topic to discuss, due to the lack of public knowledge concerning the deaf population. Through this essay, I wish to present how a child is diagnosed as having a hearing loss (including early warning signs), options that parents have for their children once diagnosed (specifically in relation to education of language), common speech teaching methods used today, typical language development for these children, and some emotional, social, and mental difficulties faced by the deaf child and the child’s family that have an immense effect on the child’s education. When most people†¦show more content†¦I want to state that, foremost, it is not my intent to advocate the teaching of speech and the English language to deaf children, nor is it my intent to advocate teaching a visual language. The decision of language for a deaf child is an extremely complicated and personal one, one that can only be made by the child’s family. This site also has limited space, and therefore does not include several facets of a deaf child’s development. This site is strictly limited to the development of language, whether it be visual or oral, and the controversies and research related to it. I also want to briefly point out the range of hearing impairments that a child can have. Even though a child may not be classified as â€Å"profoundly impaired† or deaf, this does not mean that the child will not face several of the obstacles a deaf child does. Therefore, even though this site is taken from a â€Å"worse case scenario† perspective, many of the methods and therapy situations may apply to those with less severe impairments. As a closing thought, please keep in mind the respect for â€Å"difference† that we all MUST have in this country. Deaf or hearing-impaired individuals are not necessarily â€Å"disabled†, but rather â€Å"different†. Although this difference may seem extremely complicated to the hearing world, it is one that is often embraced in the deaf world. Let us respect all people and their right to knowledge! Hopefully,Show MoreRelatedPre Lingual Hearing Loss, Or Deafness1420 Words   |  6 PagesPre lingual hearing loss, or deafness — â€Å"that is, severe to profound hearing impairment that prevents infants and young children from acquiring normally the capacity for intelligible speech† — affects tens of thousands of Americans (Murray, 1997). Accordingly, for this population of infants who were born severely or profoundly deaf and young children who became severely or profoundly deaf prior to developing any sort of communication, it is imperative t hat the child’s appointed professionals andRead MoreDeaf Studies And Deaf Education1736 Words   |  7 PagesMany of the cues used by the children or to categorize their reactions were auditory ones. If a parent called the child’s name, the child would often stop and look back to the mother. If the child heard a loud sound, they would look back to the mother for reassurance. Again, we see studies that indicate that the hearing capabilities of the child are valuable at least in examining the child’s responses, if not in creating the stimuli that the child is responding to in the first place. In theirRead MoreMaking Decisions For Children Is Difficult1511 Words   |  7 PagesMaking decisions for children is difficult; however, making decisions becomes even more complicated when the child has a hearing loss. Most parents know very little about hearing loss and the implications for their child. Before parents even have time to adjust to their child having a hearing loss, decisions need to be made and have no idea what is best for the child. Parents need to realize that just as all children are different, no one style of communication or educational assignment is rightRead MoreInnateness of Children’s Language Acquisition1371 Words   |  6 PagesThe subtlety of language acquisition has been the most fundamental question in the study of linguistics and human development. From Bow-wow Theory to Yo-He-Ho Theory, major theories on the origins and learnability of language have emerged in mid-20th century and heavily debated ever since. Among them, the idea of univer sal grammar in which is usually credited to linguist Noam Chomsky, remains the most notable and controversial theory over time. He introduced and developed the theory from 1950s toRead MoreThe subtlety of language acquisition has been the most fundamental question in the study of1500 Words   |  6 PagesThe subtlety of language acquisition has been the most fundamental question in the study of linguistics and human development. From Bow-wow Theory to Yo-He-Ho Theory, the major theories on language origins and learnability emerged at mid-20th century and has been heavily debated ever since. Among them, the idea of universal grammar in which is usually credited to linguist Noam Chomsky, remains the most notable and controversial theory over time. He introduced and developed the t heory from 1950sRead MoreThe Acquisition of Spoken Language in Deaf Children1839 Words   |  7 Pagesability to use language to communicate with the world around us. The capability to produce novel and co mplex sentences is a skill that every child learns if the conditions allow him or her to do so. What is most amazing about this is that children gain this capability in such a short amount of time. Within 5 years of life humans use the linguistic input of the world around them to produce novel ideas and thoughts. Regardless of where or how one lives, the process of acquiring language is often predictableRead MoreChilds Real Time Referential Processing Development1480 Words   |  6 PagesIntroduction Language processing has been a largely studied area of research over the past _ years. More recently, studies have looked into real-time referential processing abilities in children in order to understand how processing works as well as what contributes to levels of efficiency. Some factors that effect proficiency of this ability includes exposure to infant-directed speech, onset of exposure to first language, socioeconomic status, as well as various individual differences such as language impairmentsRead MoreLanguage Of Routines And Joint Attention Essay1107 Words   |  5 Pagesprovided to infants and toddlers who are at risk for, or showing signs of developmental delays† (Coleman, 1993). The intervention is individualized for each child and family and their specific needs. Thus, when the service providers work with the families, they can â€Å"create optimal environments for language learning† (Moeller, et. al., 2013). Research shows that language of routines and jo int attention are two successful evidence based practices families and interventionist can use with children who areRead MoreA Critical Evaluation Of Children Early Speech Perception And Implicated The `` Critical Period ``2005 Words   |  9 PagesIntroduction Infants are linguistic genius. Kuhl (2004, 2009) discovered that babies are born with the ability to make all the discrimination by languages of the world. Infants use computational strategies and statistically calculate the sound of their caregiver talking to discover all the phonemes and words. But babies lose the ability to hear those differences of other nonnative languages. Kuhl, Conboy, Padden, Nelson and Pruitt (2005) proposed the children early speech perception and implicatedRead MoreThe Effects Of A Deaf Child Cause Stress Within The Family887 Words   |  4 Pagescome together to conceive a child, their natural assumption is the child will also be a hearing person. However, that is not always the case. Over 90% of deaf children are born to hearing parents. The initial discovery of a deaf child causes stress within the family, because they are ignorant of Deaf culture within the US and also the abilities of deaf people. Nevertheless, despite the initial shock of the childà ¢â‚¬â„¢s inability to hear they are still able to bond together as a family and maintain a healthy

The Biggest Myth About University of Chicago College Essay Samples Exposed

The Biggest Myth About University of Chicago College Essay Samples Exposed The Honest to Goodness Truth on University of Chicago College Essay Samples Furthermore, the RH and RAs are wholly trained to create a warm, family-like atmosphere. When help is supplied, she'll be highly motivated to move forward. The business is recognized for superior custom made essays, prioritization of the customer's prerequisites, punctuality of article shipping. Asked questions that might help you with your application and. You must read thousands of applications. Thus I chose to take on the initiative and discover a creative approach to receiving the information I needed so much. Many college educators don't really deserve the quantity of money that they make. Community colleges are a lot more affordable. Thus, State University isn't only the ideal spot for me, it is the sole location for me. On top of its growing cultural and ethnic diversity, it is becoming a master at creating a niche for every student. If you're intimidated at the notion of making a book, there are several helpful sources out there to give you a hand. A number of bucks won't help you end up getting a good paper. Needless to say, summarizing your 16 17 years in 600 words isn't going to be simple. While excited writers result in eager readers. This fashion of writing is favored for research paper topics where the author should include extensive commentaries on parts of the text. Moreover, at community college the books are more affordable. You can opted to purchase a new book or a used book, and it's still true that you have the choice to rent the books. The application text ought to be effective to go into the college. Application writing isn't the close of the world and you're able to prepare for it. The college application essay is just one of the most vital elements of the college application part. Her homonymic invitation is deeply about the nature of English. Concept writing is a means to continue to keep your initial thoughts, yet this procedure is too tricky for some students. It's very useful to take writing apart as a way to see just the way that it accomplishes its objectives. You should construct a good outline before you write. Ultimately, the detail of true speech makes the scene pop. Rumors, Lies and University of Chicago College Essay Samples I used mental preparation to keep my competitive edge for the remainder of the season. The coat hanger comes out of a dumpster. The remainder of the work utilizes Arabic numbers. It's on no account a timeless movie but the story of both brothers struggling in their very own way, attempting to make their life better and the relationship they have with one another and their father was very relatable for me. In life all the best wins aren't the ones where you're rewarded. Actually, one of my very best friends in the entire world is from a wholly different social, economic, and racial background. The huge pothole on Elm Street that my mother was able to hit each and every day on the best way to school would be filled-in.

The Patriot free essay sample

The Patriot is a 2000 American historical war film. The film mainly takes place in York County, South Carolina. The movie depicts a story of an American who is swept into the American Revolutionary War when his family is threatened. Benjamin Martin, one of the main figures, is based on four real American Revolutionary heroes being: Andrew Pickens, Francis Marion, Daniel Morgan, and Thomas Sumter. In the movie, Benjamin Martin (Mel Gibson), a veteran of the French and Indian War and widower with seven children, is called to Charleston to vote in the South Carolina General Assembly on a levy supporting the Continental Army. Benjamin decides to abstain for the fear of a war against Great Britain. Some years later, Benjamin is given the rank of colonel to lead the local colonel militia. Benjamin’s militia harass British supply lines, capture goods, and burn half the bridges and ferries leading to Charleston. We will write a custom essay sample on The Patriot or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Cornwallis blames Tavington for creating these reactions and allows Tavington to do whatever is necessary to stop Benjamin’s militia. Tavington then starts to attack family members of the militia and burn their homes. Tavington assembles all of the townspeople of the village of Wakefield into their church, promising to free them if they give up the secret location of the hideout. When the let loose of the secret, the church doors are barricaded, trapping all of the townspeople inside, and the church is burned down. When Gabriel, one of Benjamin’s sons, gets word of what Tavington had done to the townspeople, he races to attack Tavington. Gabriel had thought to have mortally wounded Tavington, but it turned out that Tavington was faking. Tavington murdered Gabriel by stabbing him through his heart. Benjamin’s militia, along with a larger Continental Army, confront Cornwallis in battle. Benjamin gets revenge of his sons’ death by killing Tavington in the battle. The battle ended up to be a Continental victory and Cornwallis is forced to retreat. Cornwallis surrenders in Yorktown, Virginia to the Continental Army and the French naval force. Benjamin finally returns with his family and fins his militia men to be rebuilding his homestead. Although this story may sound to be historically accurate, it truly only is in a broad point of view. When you look at the movie in depth and detail, many factors prove The Patriot to be historically inaccurate. One of the biggest inaccuracies is the omission of Loyalists. A significant section of the Carolinas and Georgia remained Loyal. The Loyalists also constituted one-half of the British army in the South. Although, for some odd reason the only Loyalist portrayed in the film was solider Captain Wilkins. British soldiers, in the film, were portrayed as evil. The film was said to compare the British soldiers to Nazis. The movie made the British soldiers seem like cruel killers, which in reality they were not. The soldiers’ uniforms also proved inaccuracies within the film. Not all British soldiers wore red uniforms. Very seldom did the Continentals wear blue coats and white trousers. In the film, slavery was almost brushed off. For the first while it was ignored as much as possible. Benjamin is a planter in the film, meaning he would more than likely own slaves. Instead, he does not have slaves but he does employee free black workers. This was probably the only labor arrangement in the colonial South Carolina. Later on, Benjamin took his family to a â€Å"maroon† community of fugitive slaves to hide them from the British, but in reality they were hiding from the Patriots. Thomas Sumter paid his militiamen by using slaves seized from Tory. All in all, the portrayal of African Americans and slaves in the film were very historically inaccurate. The atrocities by Tavington and his troops were much exaggerated throughout the film. In the film, Tavington murdered one of Benjamin’s sons’ by shooting him in the back. Tavington and his troops also murdered slaves who refused to cooperate and went on a farm-burning spree, killing the wife and child one of Benjamin’s men. Tavington and his troop trap the entire population of the village of Wakefield inside of their church and set it on fire to burn, killing all of the townspeople even after they did what he had asked of them. I believe the movie, The Patriot, is historically inaccurate due to the omission of the Loyalists, depiction of the British soldiers and Continentals, views on slavery, and characterization of Tavington. The movie was a very entertaining film that basically told a story of the toll the war took on a fictional family. Whenever you really go into depth of the accuracy of the film you can point out a lot of incorrect details that have been screwed and toyed with to make a historical story more enjoyable to people who aren’t so interested in history.

Misuse of Power The Cuban Missile Crisis free essay sample

This paper considers constitutional and moral limits to the powers granted to the American President under executive privilege, especially as concerns President Kennedy?s actions during the Cuban Missile Crisis. The author examines the impacts of the misuses of power with special reference to this example. It is often said that the President of the United States is the most powerful person in the world. But is that true? What are the powers of the president, for example, in a crisis situation? And how far can he push his authority? In some cases, the Constitution is very vague about the powers of the president;Article II, section 1 states simply: The executive Power shall be vested in the President of the United States. Article II, section 3 states that the president shall take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed. Whatever the intent of this vagueness, future generations would be left to argue the case for or against giving more power to the president, depending on the situation. We will write a custom essay sample on Misuse of Power: The Cuban Missile Crisis or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page These powers, as interpreted over time, are inherent powers.

The Arab World and the Middle East

The Arab World and the Middle East The Middle East and the Arab world are often confused as one and the same thing. Theyre not. The Middle East is a geographical concept and a rather fluid one. By some definitions, the Middle East stretches only as far West as the western border of Egypt, and as far east as the eastern border of Iran, or even Iraq. By other definitions, the Middle East takes in all of North Africa and stretches to the western mountains of Pakistan. The Arab world is somewhere in there. But what is it precisely? The Arab World The simplest way to figure out what nations make up the Arab world is to look at the 22 members of the Arab League. The 22 include Palestine which, although not an official state, is considered as such by the Arab League. The heart of the Arab world is made up of the six founding members of the Arab League: Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and Syria. The six forked the Arab league in 1945. Other Arab nations in the Middle joined the League as they won their independence or were voluntarily drafted into the non-binding alliance. These include, in that order, Yemen, Libya, the Sudan, Morocco and Tunisia, Kuwait, Algeria, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Mauritania, Somalia, Palestine, Djibouti, and Comoros. Its arguable whether all people in those nations consider themselves Arab. In North Africa, for example, many Tunisians and Moroccans consider themselves distinctly Berber, not Arab, although the two are often considered identical. Other such distinctions abound within various regions of the Arab world.

The Yellow Wallpaper Quotes About Madness

'The Yellow Wallpaper' Quotes About Madness In  The Yellow Wallpaper, by  Charlotte Perkins Gilman, a short story, the narrator is isolated in her room, where shes forbidden from thinking, writing or reading. The heroine has been told shes unwell and that this isolation will be good for her. Unfortunately, it eventually leads to her loss of sanity. Gilmans tale is an allegory for how women werent taken seriously by the medical industry, which exacerbated their issues. Her heroines slow descent into madness is supposed to be reminiscent of how an oppressive society stifles  women. The yellow wallpaper which can be seen as a symbol for society continues to grow wild in the heroines imagination until shes trapped in a flowered prison. The story is popular in Womens Studies classes and considered to be one of the first Feminist  stories. Its a must-read for any lover of American or Feminist literature. Here are a few quotes from the story.   The Yellow Wallpaper Quotes The color is repellent, almost revolting: a smoldering unclean yellow, strangely faded by the slow-turning sunlight.- Charlotte Perkins Gilman, The Yellow Wallpaper This wallpaper has a kind of subpattern in a different shade, a particularly irritating one, for you can only see it in certain lights, and not clearly then.- Charlotte Perkins Gilman, The Yellow Wallpaper Im getting really fond of the room in spite of the wallpaper. Perhaps because of the wallpaper.- Charlotte Perkins Gilman, The Yellow Wallpaper There are things in that wallpaper that nobody knows about but me, or ever will.- Charlotte Perkins Gilman, The Yellow Wallpaper You think you have mastered it, but just as you get well under way in following, it turns a back-somersault and there you are. It slaps you in the face, knocks you down, and tramples upon you.- Charlotte Perkins Gilman, The Yellow Wallpaper It becomes bars! The outside pattern, I mean, and the women behind it is as plain as can be. I didnt realize for a long time what the thing was that showed behind, that dim sub-pattern, but now I am quite sure it is a woman. By daylight, she is subdued, quiet. I fancy it is the pattern that keeps her so still.- Charlotte Perkins Gilman, The Yellow Wallpaper Through watching so much at night, when it changes so, I have finally found out. The front pattern does move-and no wonder! The woman behind shakes it!- Charlotte Perkins Gilman, The Yellow Wallpaper For outside you have to creep on the ground, and everything is green instead of yellow. But here I can creep smoothly on the floor, and my shoulder just fits in that long smooch around the wall, so I cannot lose my way.- Charlotte Perkins Gilman, The Yellow Wallpaper

1973 Chilean coup d'tat Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

1973 Chilean coup d'tat - Research Paper Example The poems of this artist were conveying the message of the dilemmas of being deep-seated in a brutal, harsh and oppressive political establishment. When he was released from custody, Zurita facilitated the establishment of group of radical artists that was against the oppressive acts of Pinochet. In his writings, Zurita rolled out the prevailing conditions that were there before the coup, during the coup and what followed after the coup. The coup was carried out three years after Salvador Allende was elected president of Chile (Zurita 25). Salvador was the person in charge of the Chilean Socialist party, and he became the first president to be elected to office through a free and fair, diplomatic election. Salvador’s government experience grave economic tribulations with very high rates of inflation and unemployment. He developed strategies that would control these problems including price con trolls and nationalization of industries and firms. He also reinstated the diplomatic relations with the neighboring countries (Zurita 29). Everything was running smoothly, and all artists including young Zurita had a lot of freedom to do all manner of arts, until Salvador appointed Augusto Pinochet as commander in chief of the Chilean army. With the help of the CIA, Pinochet plotted to overthrow the Salvador’s government through a military coup on September 1973 that left Allen de dead (Zurita 32). What followed Augusto’s victory was what Zurita responded to in his writing. The Chilean parliament was closed down, and the constitution was suspended. Further, Augusto debarred all the political actions, and the trade union agreements that existed as well as strictly muzzling the media. Augusto allotted himself as the president, and he ordered the killing of more than of Salvador supporters. Anyone who was suspected of holding liberal meetings was either suspended from their job or jailed

The Hollow Earth Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

The Hollow Earth - Research Paper Example This theory is supported with an example of sea which can move across the sides of the holes or a traveler would be move over the other side of the hole just like an insect, which crawls over the top of a glass from one side to another, while being unaware of its surroundings. Richard Bernard, a researcher, justifies the theory by saying that the aircraft pilots are unable to see the holes because they are misguided by the compasses, which they carry, into believing that they are just crossing one of the two poles, instead of going into the inner crust of the earth. He says that the compasses are following the magnetic rim of the holes. And that these pilots never actually fly over the poles, which are in fact the centers of a given holes. Raymond’s’ claim was supported by a statement by Admiral Byrd, which goes like this "I'd like to see that land beyond the Pole. That area beyond the Pole is the Great Unknown." (the hollow earth, 2010) People who believe that the Eart h is hollow are tend to believe the following The concept of a North Pole and a South Pole is not real. They are in reality wide openings of up to 1400 meters leading to the interior of the Earth, which is hollow. (Rodney, 2010) The central sun heats up the interior of the Earth, and the temperature of the interior sphere remains around 76 degrees Fahrenheit, which is neither cold nor hot. (Raymond, 1991) A large population is living in the inner surface of the Earth, the land on the other side of the holes at the poles. They are believed to be there, since the continents of Atlantis and Lemuria sank. This civilization is thought to be way more advanced than our own and the invention of flying saucers is attributed to them. A popular conspiracy theory extends the contact of this civilization with the U.S army, and they are taking advantage from the vast knowledge possessed by that civilization. (Billie & Woodard, 2008) So the focus of this research is to analyze the belief held by p eople about the Earth being hollow. First these three beliefs would be would be examined in a more detail, their origins and practicality, or lack of it, would be judged. In the end the contradictory concepts would be discussed and in the conclusion reason would be given about the validity of this weird belief. Origins and Supporters of the Belief The exact amount of people who do believe in the theory that Earth is hollow is not known. But this much is known that its not a high percentage of population with these believes. There is a bunch of people who have formed a group and call themselves the "Flat-Earth Society". (Childress & Raymond, 2009) There is another group, equally vocal, who believe that the earth is hollow. Several years ago, a group of "believers" informed a member of the Geophysical Institute staff that there was an opening to the center of the earth in the Alaska Range, and that this was an entry and exit point for flying saucers. (Robbins, 2003) Origins This theor y originated from the mind of a British astronomer, Edmund Halley, he was the first to come up the theory that earth might consist of several concentric spheres, each placed inside one another like concentric spheres. He further stated that the two inner most spheres have diameters matching that of Venus or Mars, while suggesting that the solid inner most core is as big as planet Mercury. The inner spheres rotate at different speed than

The Irish Culture Essay Example for Free

The Irish Culture Essay The Irish are the people living on the Island of Ireland. Their culture is not that huge as per many beliefs. This is due to the prominent divisions that are there between urban and rural people, between the Protestants and the Roman Catholics and also divisions between the Irish speakers and the English speakers. This division has gone ahead to even affect the new migrants and the native population (Mitchell, 1998). With such divisions, the Irish culture is bound not to be monumental, though it is significant to as far as international levels. The old pagan tradition is still considerably reflected in the Irish calendar up to date. The Christian traditions have also a significant effect even though they came much later. For instance, in other countries around the world, Christmas coincides with the winter solstice, something that was chosen deliberately (Comerford, 2003). In Ireland, Christmas just like most places have several local traditions, some of them are in no particular way connected with Christianity. One example is on 26th December where it is also known as St. Stephen’s day. There is a custom of â€Å"Wrenboys† who make door to door calls with assorted material’s arrangement. These equipments tend to vary with place which is meant to a dead wren that has been trapped in the furze. There is also the 1st of February which is the Brigid’s day. This day has also acquired different names which include Imbolic and Candlemas. This too does not have any Christian origins. Instead, it is seen as another observation that is religious in nature and was superimposed during the start of spring. There is also the Brigid’s cross that was made on this day out of rushes. It is used to be a symbol of a solar wheel that is pre- Christian. Sumhain in November is another festival that is still greatly observed to date and it is currently called Halloween. Halloween has gained popularity and is celebrated world wide. The other pre- Christian festivals that have their names as Irish months name include Bealtaine that is May and Lunasa which is August. Easter and Marian observances are part of the important church holidays (Mitchell, 1998). The most eventful and prestigious of all is the S. t Patrick’s day. It is marked as a national holiday in the republic of Ireland. To really ascertain its importance, the day is celebrated with a lot of festivals in the cities and within towns all around the country. Parades and marching bands are also availed to mark that day. Dancing is part and parcel of the Irish culture. In Irish dancing, two main kinds have been identified. They are the Riverdance and Real Irish dance. The Riverdance is very popular in that it is running up to the moment in major cities apart from Ulan Bater. It is even credited with the Irish economic boom by some economists. On the other hand, the Real Irish dance is performed in such a manner that men do not dress in frilly blouses and one is not allowed to communicate except in a note in print to the panel of adjudicators (Comerford, 2003). The work habits in the Irish community vary with different people. Farming is largely prevalent in Ireland even though it is one of the activities in the Irish culture that comes from way back in history. Therefore in arming, the men are the ones who handle most of the activities that are related to it. The women on the other hand do the marketing of the produces. The Irish farmers have come to be known for using the latest methods in agricultural production. The kind of produce that they make includes meat and dairy products. Cereals like wheat and barley are also chiefly produced. In production the Irish industry has done tremendously well in pharmaceuticals textiles, clothing, and even in fishery (Mitchell, 1998). Language is only one way of communicating. There are other forms of sending a message that bring forth communication. Gestures are one way of communicating. The Irish culture also has its own unique gestures. Women are allowed to sit first before the men. The women are supposed to sit with their legs crossed right at the ankle or even at the knees. It is considered informal to have ones ankles crossed over the knee. A good gesture also includes buying your friends or drinking partners a round of drinks when your turn comes. It is looked at as rather rude not to. Therefore the people tend to be disciplined and everyone knows what is expected of them at a particular situation no matter how informal it may seem or be. Shoving the line is frowned upon. Order is highly regarded and no one is supposed to be treated unfairly to an extent of having others shove the line. Using a firm handshake is also seen as a good gesture. Loose handshakes are associated with disrespect towards the person greeted or eve lack of interest. Therefore firm handshake symbolizes reverence (Comerford, 2003). In terms of governance, the Irish government of the time holds the office only and only when it still has the support of the majority of Dail Eireann members. The Taoiseach who is the head of the government can voluntarily resign and if he/she does so, the whole cabinet is considered to have resigned. Then a new nomination is put for Taoiseach before the parliament to approve a new one. The Irish government according to its constitution should constitute between 7-15 members. The head of the government is nominated by one of the houses of parliaments and the Irish president formally appoints him. For that post, each political party nominates its member who needs the support of the majority members of parliament to win (Mitchell, 1998). The Irish government is elected for a ruling term of five years. In this case since the current government was elected in 2007, it is expected to conclude its term in 2012 and go for a general election. In parliament, the senate and parliament debates are available and even published all the way through the session. The issues and questions tabled by the members of parliaments during the sitting are taken by the minister in whose docket it concerns. The replies are published at the end of each day’s parliamentary proceedings. Each committee meeting has an official report which is published in 2-3 working days and at most in a week’s time. Therefore Ireland has a democratic system of governance (Comerford, 2003). In essence, the Irish culture is a unique one and identifies the Irish people. It is richly religious with over 80% of its population being Roman Catholics. They have lots of days they observe that are not necessarily Christian oriented but that is what makes them uniquely Irish. References. Comerford, R. Ireland Inventing the Nation. New York: Hodder Books, (2003). Mitchell, Frank and Ryan, Michael. Reading the Irish landscape. London: SAGE. (1998).

Interpretive Richness of Leslie Marmon Silkos Ceremony Essay -- Silko

The interpretative richness of Silko’s Ceremony Leslie Marmon Silko’s Ceremony is the extraordinary tale of Tayo, a mixed-blood Native American in his long quest to cure the suffering that afflicts him and his people. The novel is complex enough that it can be interpreted in the context of starkly different paradigms, each highlighting important facets of the story. For instance, in the article â€Å"Feminine perspectives at Laguna Pueblo: Silko’s Ceremony,† Edith Swan offers a (symbolic) analysis of the plethora of important female characters in the novel that is based on a deliberately unicultural, Laguna worldview on the grounds that â€Å"[...] western presumptions must be set aside so that they do not adversely bias or manipulate tribal structures of meaning. Native premises must be allowed to stand on their own terms† (309). On the other hand, Dennis Cutchins, in his article â€Å"‘So that the nations may become genuine Indian’: Nativism and Leslie Marmon Silko’s Ceremony† advocates a politico-historical interpretation of the novel as a reaction against the overwhelming influence of Western civilization on Native American culture. This reaction, Cutchins argues, takes the form of a â€Å"revision† of history for the purpose of removing the Western influence and adapting ancient traditions to better serve the needs of the present, thus resolving the conflict between the two cultures. Cutchins’ interpretation therefore, is multicultural, focussing on the historical relationship between Western and Native American cultures and providing a paradigm (namely, nativism) that helps put it all in perspective. By utilizing divergent paradigms in interpreting Ceremony, Swan and Cutchins both succeed in highlighting the many fascinating... ...nse in the context of the outside world and the history of the Native American people. The differing theses however, do not contradict each other. Rather, they complement each other by providing a more complete picture through the simultaneous consideration of socio-cultural as well as politico-historical perspectives of the novel. 7 Works Cited Cutchins, Dennis. â€Å"‘So that the nations may become genuine Indian’: Nativism and Leslie Marmon Silko’s Ceremony.† Journal of American Culture 22.4 (1 Dec. 1999): not paginated. Silko, Leslie Marmon. Ceremony. New York: Penguin, 1977. Swan, Edith. â€Å"Feminine Perspectives at Laguna Pueblo: Silko’s Ceremony.† Tulsa Studies in Women’s Literature 11.2 (Autumn, 1992): 309-328. Work cited from within Swan, Edith: Allen, Paula Gunn. â€Å"The Psychological Landscape of Ceremony.† American Indian Quarterly. 5.1 (1979): 12. 8

How Does Hill Create a Sense of Isolation in the Woman in Black

The Woman in Black (TWIB) is a story about isolated people in an isolated place. Not least TWIB before she died. Janet Humfrye was isolated by her plight as a mother of an illegitimate child, which was frowned upon by society in the early 20th century when the story is set. Even the town’s people of Crithin Gifford were isolated on the marshes and almost described as though they lived in another dimension, another part of the world set apart from the rest of society. The sense of isolation runs like a thread right through the whole book. Hill does this by creating vivid pictures in the reader’s mind.She uses detailed descriptions or imagery with frequent use of metaphor, simili and personification techniques. She also uses short and effective phrases with repetition of words to help create the impact of the descriptions on the reader. Hill was a big fan of Dickens who also used this technique. Hill begins the story by describing the central character Kipps as a bit of a recluse living at Monks piece. She turns the story a full circle and finishes in the same place when Kipps has recounted the story of what happened to him in the marshes. The very name Monks Piece conjures up a reclusive monk living alone.Kipps has been living a quiet hermit like existence since buying Monks Piece in his middle age. Kipps describes himself as needing solitude in order to cope with his feelings. He describes himself as a ‘sombre pale complexioned man with a strained expression’ and ‘no taste at all for social life. ’ This is in stark contrast to his former self as the young Arthur Kipps who was keen, care free, innocent, ambitious and full of energy. The descriptions of Alice Drablow (AD) in a London Particular by Bentley give the impression of a lonely isolated woman.She is described as a ‘rum un’ by Bentley and lived like a recluse at Eel Marsh House when she was alive. Her only family lived abroad in India and had done so fo r 40 years. She is described as having ‘no friends or neighbours,’ her house was a few miles from the nearest town. â€Å"Living there† said Mr Bentley thoughtfully, â€Å"anyone might become rum†. In the journey North, Arthur KIpps (AK) expresses his sense of isolation when the branch line train to Crithin Gifford has stopped to wait for a passing train. I tried not to sound concerned but was feeling an unpleasant sensation of being isolated, far from any human dwelling and trapped in this cold tomb of a railway carriage. † Here Hill has used a metaphor by describing the train carriage as a cold tomb which gives a sense of forboding and forshadowing of death as well as isolation. The sighting s of TWIB at the funeral gives a picture of a lonely isolated figure. She appears and disappears without trace and stands away from the proceedings. The details of her appearance by Kipps also adds to this sense of her isolation. only the thinnest layer of fles h was tautly stretched and strained across her face. † In across the Causeway Hill uses the effect of sound throughout the chapter to create a sense of splendour and Isolation. â€Å"The only sounds I could hear above the trotting of the pony’s hooves and the rumble of the wheels and the creek of the cart were sudden harsh weird cries from birds near and far. † Kipps description of his journey across the Causeway adds to a sense of isolation. â€Å"Emptiness stretching for miles, the sense of space, the vastness of the sky above, passing no farm or cottage, no kind of dwelling house at all in three miles.All was emptiness. † The description of Eel Marsh house also adds to a sense of isolation. â€Å"Facing the whole wide expanse of Marsh and Estuary. † â€Å"Isolated, uncompromising but also handsome. † Kipps feels quite alone when he arrives at EM house. â€Å"Certainly I felt loneliness† â€Å" I felt quite alone outside that gaunt empty house. Hill’s use of repetition in short phrases helps the reader to empathise with the feelings of Kipps. â€Å"But for today I had had enough. Enough of the solitude and no sound, save the water and the moaning wind and the melancholy calls of the birds, enough of the monotonous greyness, enough of this gloomy old house. This all helps to add to a sense of the atmosphere and isolation that Kipps feels. When Kipps sets out on the causeway path back to Crithin Gifford he remarks, â€Å"I had never been quite so alone, nor felt quite so small and insignificant in a vast landscape. † At this point he is unaware that in minutes he will be shrouded in mist so that he can no longer see the house behind him or indeed see the path in front. Hill uses imagery throughout the book to create atmosphere, tension and vivid pictures in the readers mind. In the Pony & Trap chapter she describes the descending mist. â€Å"Like a damp clinging cobwebby thing. She writes â€Å" I felt confused by it, teased by it, as though it were made up of millions of live fingers that crept over me, hung on to me and shifted again. This makes it sound to the reader as though it were a live creature attacking Kipps. This adds to the tension, atmosphere and isolation that Kipps feels. He is far from anywhere and there is no one to call out to. Although Hill tells the story through the eyes of Kipps the central character ( or protagonist) in the book she is able to create a further sense of isolation through the use of dialogue between Kipps and the other characters.Kipps is made to feel alone and isolated in the task of Eel Marsh house and sorting AD’s affairs, by the responses he gets from the people of Crithin Gifford. Many were too terrified to get involved or even speak of TWIB or EMH. When Kipps for example asks Mr Jerome for the papers he replies, â€Å" There is no one. I am quite on my own. I cannot give you any help at all. † This dialogue helps to bring out the feelings of other characters and in this case Mr Jerome’s extreme fear of getting involved.For me the most isolated figure described in the book is Jannet Humfrye who when alive not only was isolated by her tragic situation but, the fact that she had developed a terrible wasting disease. The flesh had shrunk from her bones and ‘she looked like a walking skeleton, a living spectre. ’ Daily remarks to Kipps in a Packet of Letters, â€Å"When she went about the streets people drew back. † As a ghost she appears several times in the book, but in particular when she is first seen by Kipps the description of her is quite sympathetic compared with the evil described in further appearences.Despite her malevolent spirit we cannot help but feel some sympathy and sadness for her terrible plight. Hill balances our feelings towards her by telling her story through kipps dialogue with Daily. Almost every page of the book is filled with vivid descriptive w riting about characters, places and the weather. By creating a sense of isolation in this way Hill adds to the tension, the fear, the atmosphere and keeps the reader in suspense right the way through. By telling the story through Kipps we are drawn in to the rise and fall of his emotions. The reader effectively feels his fear, his tension and his sense of isolation. By Lucy Roberts

Why Do Sports Matter

† Champion aren't made In the gyms. Champions are made from something they have Inside them – a desire, a dream, a vision† (Muhammad All). Sports are the basic of everything that a person learns in his/her childhood. There is no known date or time when the sports started. Played from the day the mankind exists. Sometimes played for recreation, sometimes play, sometimes money and sometimes for the pride. There are some people who are not keeping with the sportsmanship in the game and are using some other means to enhance their performance. Sports first played officially In the times of the Romans.When the first time the mall Olympic were held was In the Athens. Now the sports and games came a long way. The standard of the games have increased a lot in the past few years. The competition in the games has increased a lot. The prize money have also increased a lot in the game, from the crown of olive leaves the 1. 6 billion dollars in the past few years. This drastic c hange/elevation in the amount have lead in the increase of the interest in the games as they see a lot of money In these games Firstly considered he waste of time by the people and later became the source of earning money and recreation.Sports are means of physical and mental growth. Sports Increase our capabilities and also improve our efficiency. According to the peoples in the past the sports are just the waste if time which could be utilized in some better ways. As some of the business mans realize that sports is a great way to earn money they invested there money In it. Some of the people think that study is everything and children must be emphasized more on the studies this Is something that I completely disagree with.Everyone got his/her own credibility and we cannot change and we must not change that spouse if Michael Cordon's family asked him to study not to play and didn't provide him the source from the day he was in school. Sports are now a day a great career to be selec ted, as there is a lot of money in it. Sports teaches us the discipline in which the particular sports is to be played and the way in which one must be coordinative with his/her team members, develops In us team spirit. Sports make us mentally and physically more tough and also help us to malignant our body In good heap and make us more active and more stronger.Sports teach the ability of leadership and working under the order of someone. Sports are great way in which one can learn the ability of patience and the ability to accept the defeat. These are some things that most of us find very difficult to learn. As Wifely Shed describes in his writing † the money in the sports is only for the business mans, not for the players† (Willful Shed). The author here want to put emphasis on how the players are exploited by the team owners, as the players are to given the money which they should be given in return of there hard work.As coin has two sides, it is same in the case of s ports and games. There are certain things related with the sports that are not spouse to be part of it. Use of steroids and other performance enhancing products are used very frequently now a days by the players in different sports like bodybuilding, athletics etc. According to news now each and every player in the baseball is on drugs. A-Rod himself in the interview have approved that he was taking some kind of performance enhancing drugs.Some of them are forced to do that but some of them are Just taking them so that they could do better in the games. As the level of competition is raising now the level of usage of steroids is also climbing towards the sky at the same peace. These professional athletes are getting paid a lot of money because they are doing really well in their sports, and why are they doing well? It may be because they have a lot of talent and put a lot of time in training, but also a lot of it could be the use off performance enhancing drugs. So essentially they are getting paid to take the drugs.The athletes that are using the drugs are increasing their talent substantially, and making the honest athletes that aren't taking drugs look bad as they are not getting so many homeruns or get as many quarterback sacks. Now I feel this is not how it should be. The athletes should be tested more frequently, and the ones caught with drugs should be put to a stop as this is spoiling the whole meaning of the sports and fun. Its not only the drug issue but there are certain other issues that are related with the games. Racist discrimination is one of the common things that we encounter in he sports and games.Racism has been a stain on the soul of soccer for generations, and not only in the soccer but also other sports too. If there is a match between a black and a white man the whole community of blacks and the whites think to be the match of there prides. Women's are also criticized in the sports and this thing is becoming common in these days. Women are Just considered good for cheerleaders and some things that they can't be good players but the people forget about the William sisters how they raised the bar by their consistency.Women's are Just thought to be a sort of entertaining thing in the sports, as they look sexy when they are dressed in the cheerleader's dresses. There are always two side of everything this is upon us that which side is worth considering. Sports are very helpful in maintain a good body and moreover it teaches us good morals. Only thing I want to say is that sports are the essential part of our life and we must enjoy it and live that life too. And folks if you want to get rid of this drugs thing than we need to get hard, the players must be checked more frequently to get it done and the against it must be made more strict.

Modern Bridge Building essays

Modern Bridge Building essays Modern technology is advancing faster than we care to think. Our engineering marvels of the past are quickly becoming obsolete. Many bridges are built using classic designs which can be greatly improved with new technology. Modern technology allows bridges to be built from state of the art materials with superior strength and versatility (Wilson I). The arch is one of the older forms of bridge used in many Roman structures. It is like an inverted suspension bridge, with all the tensions replaced by compressions, and vice versa. The other great difference is in the stability of the system. You can drive heavy weight across an arch and cause it to flex, and it will always return to its original position, after movement. The girder bridge is made up of two or more large beams that can stretch across the length of the obstacle that it is built to overcome. Many cantilevers that pivot as the load on the bridge shifts are used to even out the stress on the entire structure. This is the most basic and most widely used design (Krinsiuns III). The box girder is a bridge that most engineers try to avoid because of the stress that is put on the beams during construction, which has lead to many collapses(Wilson I). It is made up of many trusses and boxed or round beams. The cable stayed bridge uses the support of many high tension cables that are attached to two large pillars. The bridge is very well balanced due to the many separate cables, which support themselves under high stress (Krinsiuns III). The suspension bridge is the most popular and well known bridge design used today. The most highly stressed parts of a suspension bridge are in tension not in compression. A cable, though flexible, is very stable against pressure, and only needs to be thick enough to withstand the tension, with a safety factor. A strut is unstable, and needs to be thick enough to prevent buckling. So an arch can never be as light as a suspension ...

Flier vs. Flyer

Flier vs. Flyer Flier vs. Flyer Flier vs. Flyer By Mark Nichol Whether you post a flier or a flyer depends on whether you’re assigning a pilot to an air base or tacking a piece of paper to a bulletin board. Flyer, first attested hundreds of years ago, was the original agent-noun form of fly, with the obvious meaning of â€Å"something that flies.† Later, however, it came to be associated with swift objects, whether airborne or not. This description was widely employed to refer to various vehicles, including trains, planes, and automobiles, as well as boats and ships (and even a submarine, although the name was spelled Flier). Flyer is also another name for the architectural feature usually called the flying buttress, and it’s the appellation of hockey teams in the United States and throughout northern Europe. In addition, it is used in the sense of financial speculation (because such action is compared to a leap of faith), such as in the phrase â€Å"take a flyer.† However, although that spelling was commonly used as a synonym for pilot (though not until a quarter century after the advent of mechanized flight), the alternate spelling, for some reason, came to predominate in referring to airplane passengers hence, â€Å"frequent-flier miles.† Long before aviation as we know it first occurred, however, flyer, initially a slang term, became a widespread term for a single sheet of paper posted to advertise or inform. (One source mentions that it was first used to refer to notices in police stations, and that the term was associated with widespread dissemination analogous to a flock of birds taking flight.) Although both spellings are used for this sense, flyer is more common, as flier is the usual spelling in reference to air travel. Interestingly, two American authorities, Bryan A. Garner, author of Garner’s Modern American Usage, and the Associated Press Stylebook, recommend flier for all senses; however, Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary allows that flyer is more common when referring to a leaflet, and popular usage bears this out. Analogous agent nouns are split in their spelling: Cry becomes crier (though cryer appears in some sources to refer to a court officer who makes proclamations and to a female hawk), but dry becomes dryer and fry becomes fryer. Prier, slier, and sprier are the preferred comparatives of pry, sly, and spry, but pryer, slyer, and spryer are acceptable. My recommendation for flyer/flier? I’m siding with Merriam-Webster’s, as usual: Pilots and passengers are fliers, and pamphlets are flyers. 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 Misused Words category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:7 Classes and Types of PhrasesLatin Words and Expressions: All You Need to KnowPunctuation Is Powerful

ART AND EXPERIENCE Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

ART AND EXPERIENCE - Essay Example Each of these produced a different approach to the expression used and allowed the cartoons to remain at the forefront of expressing and questioning the movements which were occurring during this time frame. Background of Caricatures and Cartoons The 18th and 19th centuries differed with caricatures and cartoons because of their main purpose. In contemporary drawings, there is a focus on the publisher, with the cartoons published in magazines and newspapers. The expression was then based on short term ideologies and statements about a given issue. However, the cartoons which were provided before the 20th century were based on long term applications and were typically used with as a form of artistic expression to be shown in galleries, cafes and other areas. The concept of not dividing the cartoons and caricatures from the everyday artistic expressions created a valuable aspect to the cartoon and what is represented. More important, the subject matters and statements were created to r emain relevant throughout time and to have thematic material which was applicable to culture, history and the way in which current events related to this1. The concept of the cartoon as one which was relevant to the time frame and which was also depicted as art then led to a distinction between the genre of art which it represented. Instead of creating the ideology that the artistic work was a cartoon or caricature, many considered the technique as one which expressed a form of satire. The satire was based on the current system while creating an expression which was both realistic and which couldn’t hold the belief of remaining real. The image and brand which was used with the technique was able to create this dichotomy specifically by showing that there was an unrealistic aspect to the political, social and cultural ideologies which many had, even though it was an event which had occurred. The dichotomy which was created and which presented the aspect of a satirical piece of work then led to specific expressions and definitions within the art presented2. Political Revolution and Cartoons The first component which was seen with the cartoons and satires which were presented were based on the French and British revolutions which occurred during the time. These particular components of history were based on the rebellion of the peasants and commoners to gain rights within the lands and to have more abilities with the nobles that were in the region. When this occurred, there were several uprisings and political powers which resisted the change. The result was sets of battles and warfare as well as arrests which occurred with the revolutions to try to maintain and change what had occurred with those who had gone through the desire to change. At the same time, there was a sense of trying to keep the lower classes oppressed while allowing the nobility and those with a higher economic and social status to remain ahead of those in society. The rebellion which oc curred was based specifically on these divisions and the way in which they built into the several revolutions of the time.3 There are several examples of the uprising as well as the rebellion which took place and the satirical events which were associated with this. Figure 1 is a representative of the cartoons and satires which were based on the revolution. Figure 1: Reveil de Tiers Etat When looking at this specific piece, it can be

Law enforcement and counter-terrorism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Law enforcement and counter-terrorism - Essay Example Knowing what terrorists' aims and objectives will enable Americans to be prepared of possible future targets of terror especially in New York City. By using various research already done on the nature of terrorism and their targets, this paper intends to examine probable future targets of terrorism in New York City. This paper will first investigate why the terrorist attacked the WTC, why they like to attack New York City, Their aims and objectives, and possible next targets. It all started with an explosion that occurred on Friday, February 26, 1993 which devastated the public parking area of the World Trade Center located in New York City. The resulting blast killed 6 persons and dealt injury to not more than 1,000 others. This was considered by the N.Y.P.D. as one of the biggest crime scene they have ever encountered and the estimated damage was estimated at over half a billion dollars. Law enforcement agencies in and out of New York dubbed this as "the case of the century". This put N.Y. City in a grip of fear and panics ("The World Trade Center Bombing", 2006). This incident sparked a brand new trend in terrorism, one that involves the random and haphazard killing of civilians Dwyer et al, 1994; Myroie, 1996). 1, 042 people were reported to be injured in a more accurate account, and crime analysis has speculated that the terrorists aimed to kill more than 6 people at that time. It is also believed that the terrorist encountered several complications in the execution of the plan, and the damage could have been much worse if the circumstances were right (Parachini, 1993).The terror did not stop from that incident. History repeated itself on September 11, 2003 (now referred to as "9/11") when 2 large passenger aircraft were hi-jacked and collided with the Twin Towers again located in New York. The collision resulted in a massive fire and heavy collateral damage to the Twin Towers and other structures in the surroundings. Four of the nearby buildings in the WTC compound suffered irreparable damage and were eventually demolished. The next 8 and half months were spent on 24-hour cleanup involving thousands of voluntary workers. The effects of 9/11 is still being felt up to today, as a matter of fact as of 2005 a total of 2,749 death certificates related to 9/11 had been filed. The following statistics showed the grim and horrible results of 9/11: There were 13 survivors of 9/11, but they eventually succumbed to their injuries. The o ther attacks made on the Pentagon and Shanksville, Pennsylvania resulted in 3 more deaths in different States, one death each for Massachusetts, Missouri, and New Jersey. A total of 2, 749 people died due to 9/11, 77% were males (2,117) and 23% were females (632). Around 1,588 (58% of the casualties) of corpses examined were identified based on dental records, jewelry and other identification methods. The average age for the victims is 39 years old based on data that the average age was 38 years for females (range: 2-81 years) and 39 years for males (range: 3-85 years). Three victims were under the age of 5 while 3 others were over the age of 80 years old ("World Trade Center", 2006). This goes to show that terrorist will go to any length to sow terror in men's heart.

Discusion board Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Discusion board - Assignment Example The applications also enable management identify and correct any unforeseen challenges that may arise. Business processes are sources of competitive advantage. Business processes need to be unique and strategic to offer a competitive advantage. For instance, a business with processes focused on the creation of innovative products and services or those that portray a high sensitivity to customer queries and concerns tend to create a competitive advantage over their rivals. 2-How does Porters five forces shape industry competition and strategy? What are the implications? Do you agree with these five forces? Is there any other force that affects competition and strategy? What is the role of MIS in this framework? Understanding one’s business, specifically the strengths and weaknesses, is very important in facing rival competition. This is the basis in Porter’s five forces that shape industry competition and strategy. According to Porter, these five are; supplier power, buyer power, competitive rivalry, threat of substitution and threat of new entry. The five are centered in understanding the power that lies in a business and very useful in the analysis of the current positioning of a business, from a competitive point of view. Understanding this power, according to Porter, enables one to gain an advantage position by capitalizing on the strengths and improving weaknesses. For instance, in threat of new entry, the knowledge that competitors can easily penetrate the market and bring competition enables a business create barriers strong enough to keep off competitors thus maintain a competitive position. These forces shape the markets and industries businesses operate in. For inst ance, in competitive rivalry, having very few or no competitors at all offers a business competitive advantage in the industry it operates in. I agree with these five

Prefabricated Buildings: Advantages and Disadvantages

Prefabricated Buildings: Advantages and Disadvantages There are many different types of construction  buildings  such as residential, commercial or industrial.  Industrial  buildings  are mainly used for manufacture warehousing, offices, showrooms, sport, retailing, agricultural and horticultural  buildings, recreation leisure, swimming pool enclosures as well as many other aspects. If your business is in need of extra space; whether it is for storage or to conduct aspects of business, an  industrial  building, such as a warehouse may be the answer that your business is looking for. Industrial  buildings, such as the ones named above are available from many different building contractor teams and they are often available as both a permanent or temporary business solution. You may need the use of an  industrial  building as a way of housing certain equipment and supplies as well as providing you with a space that can be dedicated for you to undertake aspects of business. Depending on what you need the  industrial  building for depends on what type of building you have constructed. If you need the extra space as a place where people can do business then a more permanent structure may be in order. Also if you are planning on using your  industrial  building as an added work space then it is important that you ensure the building is insulated and that your employees are protected. Many of the  industrial  buildings  that are open to you to use for your business provide you with a comfortable working environment and in many cases reduce energy through the quality and reliability which can be achieved with high performance insulation solutions. Also by choosing a reliable building contractor team to install your  industrial  building you will be getting a workspace which creates a clean environment for all of your production, storage, material handling and infrastructure needs. Many building contractor teams will design your  industrial  buildings  using cladding and lining and will incorporate windows and doors that in some cases are double glazed as well as being tough when it comes to security. You will be able to decide what features are and arent included on your  industrial  building, meaning from the start you will know exactly what you are buying. When you are deciding on including an  industrial  building into your workplace you need to ensure that the execution of the project is successful. One way of making sure that this happens is by conducting effective planning as this is essential to ensure that you get what you want from your  industrial  building. During your planning for your  industrial  building you should consider aspects such as the environmental impact of the job, the success of the scheduling, budgeting and site safety as well as the availability of materials, logistics and the inconvenience to the public caused by construction delays, preparing tender documents, etc. If you are hoping to gain the extra help from the use of an  industrial  building then it is highly important that you gain the help of a professional building contractor team to construct your industrial  building. Identify the Differences of the Prefabricated and Pre Engineered Buildings. Prefabricated building is a type of building that consists that of several factory built components or units that are assembled on site to complete the unit. Its Prefabricated / Pre-engineered components away from the site and bringing them to site and assembling. These methods reduce construction time at the site, facilitate better quality control and reduce labour component which involves in the site. Prefabricated Buildings. The term prefabricated may refer to buildings built in components (e.g. panels), modules (modular homes) or transportable sections (manufactured homes), and may also be used to refer to mobile homes, i.e. houses on wheels. Although similar in nature, the methods and design of the three can vary wildly. There are two-level home plans, as well as custom home plans. There are also large differences in the construction types. Mobile and manufactured houses are constructed in accordance with the HUD building codes in the U.S. while modular houses are constructed in accordance with the IBC (International Building Code). Modular homes are homes that are created in sections, and then transported to the home site for construction and installation. These are typically installed and treated like a regular house, for financing, appraisal and construction purposes, and are usually the most expensive of the three. Although the sections of the house are prefabricated, the sections, or modules, are put together at the construction much like a typical home. Manufactured and mobile houses are rated as personal property and depreciate over time. Manufactured homes refer to homes that are built onto steel beams, and are transported in complete sections to the home site, where they are assembled. Mobile homes are homes built on wheels, which are able to be moved from place to place. Mobile homes and manufactured homes can be placed in mobile home parks, and manufactured homes can also be placed on private land, providing the land is appropriately zoned for manufactured homes. As far as getting set up, prefabricated buildings can be erected rather quickly some in as little as 45 days. Companies can start concentrating on making money rather than concerning themselves with when their building will be finished. Prefabricated buildings can be constructed at almost half the cost of a traditional building. For a basic structure such as a portable office or classroom, expect to pay about $35 per square foot. More complex prefabricated buildings medical clinics and retail facilities will cost you close to $200 per square foot. While not exactly a drop in the bucket, its still more affordable than traditional construction, particularly if the prefabricated buildings are only going to be used for a fixed period of time. For those companies who look beyond price and convenience, prefabricated buildings do have a few downsides. The most obvious is the look and feel. At their most basic, prefabricated buildings are meant to be quick, affordable solutions so they arent the prettiest structures in the world. Elevated entrances and shorter ceilings dont really add to the dà ©cor, but if you are willing to spend a bit more, you can upgrade your prefabricated buildings to have more stylish designs. The types of materials used for prefabricated buildings are usually aluminum,  wood, steel, fiberglass, and concrete. The steel used in these structures is specially treated to resist corrosion, rust, and fire. The use of plastics and other composite materials offer a less expensive option for surface materials without sacrificing durability or quality. The construction of the components of the prefabricated building is accomplished inside the factory where the plumbing and electrical systems are tested before they are exported to their destinations. The wall finishes and  countertops  are also installed inside the factory. Although customization is available, prefabrication businesses are able to buy much of their material in bulk and thus are able to pass on the savings to their buyers.   Pre-engineered Buildings In  structural engineering, a  pre-engineered building  (PEB) is designed by a manufacturer to be fabricated using a pre-determined inventory of raw materials and manufacturing methods that can efficiently satisfy a wide range of structural and aesthetic design requirements. Within some geographic industry sectors these buildings are also called Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings (PEMB) or, as is becoming increasingly common due to the reduced amount of pre-engineering involved in custom computer aided designs, simply, Engineered Metal Buildings (EMB). Historically, the primary framing structure of a pre-engineered building is an assembly of I shaped members, often referred as  I beams. In pre-engineered buildings, the I beams used are usually formed by welding together steel plates to form the I section. The I beams are then field-assembled (e.g. bolted connections) to form the entire frame of the pre-engineered building. Some manufacturers taper the framing members (varying in web depth) according to the local loading effects. Larger plate dimensions are used in areas of higher load effects. Other forms of primary framing can include trusses, mill sections rather than 3-plate welded, castellated beams, etc. The choice of economic form can vary depending on factors such as local capabilities (e.g. manufacturing, transportation, construction) and variations in material vs. labour costs. Typically, primary frames are 2D type frames (i.e. may be analyzed using 2-Dimensional techniques). Advances in computer aided design technology, materials and manufacturing capabilities have assisted a growth in alternate forms of Pre-engineered building such as the Tension fabric building  and more sophisticated analysis (e.g. 3-Dimensional) as is required by some building codes. Cold formed Z and C-shaped members may be used as secondary structural elements to fasten and support the external cladding. Roll-formed profiled steel sheet, wood, tensioned fabric, precast concrete, masonry block, glass curtain wall or other materials may be used for the external cladding of the building. In order to accurately design a pre-engineered building, engineers consider the clear span between bearing points, bay spacing, roof slope, live loads, dead loads, collateral loads, wind uplift, deflection criteria, internal crane system and maximum practical size and weight of fabricated members. Historically, pre-engineered building manufacturers have developed pre-calculated tables for different structural elements in order to allow designers to select the most efficient I beams size for their projects. However, the table selection procedures are becoming rare with the evolution in computer aided custom designs. While pre-engineered buildings can be adapted to suit a wide variety of structural applications, the greatest economy will be realized when utilizing standard details. An efficiently designed pre-engineered building can be lighter than the conventional steel buildings by up to 30%. Lighter weight equates to less steel and a potential price savings in structural framework. Applications of Pre Engineered Buildings (PEB) Warehouses Factories Workshops Offices Gas stations Vehicle parking sheds Showrooms Aircraft hangars Metro stations Schools Recreational Indoor stadium roofs Outdoor stadium canopies Bridges Railway platform shelters Advantages of Pre Engineered Buildings Reduced construction time: Buildings are typically delivered in just a few weeks after approval of drawings. Foundation and anchor bolts are cast parallel with finished, ready for the site bolting. Our study shows that in India the use of PEB will reduce total construction time of the project by at least 50%. This also allows faster occupancy and earlier realization of revenue. Lower cost: Due to the systems approach, there is a significant saving in design, manufacturing and on site erection cost. The secondary members and cladding nest together reducing transportation cost. Flexibility of expansion: Buildings can be easily expanded in length by adding additional bays. Also expansion in width and height is possible by pre designing for future expansion. Large clear spans: Buildings can be supplied to around 80M clear spans. Quality control: As buildings are manufactured completely in the factory under controlled conditions the quality is assured. Low maintenance: Buildings are supplied with high quality paint systems for cladding and steel to suit ambient conditions at the site, which results in long durability and low maintenance coats. Energy efficient roofing and wall systems:   Buildings can be supplied with polyurethane insulated panels or fiberglass blankets insulation to achieve required U values. Architectural versatility:   Building can be supplied with various types of fascias, canopies, and curved eaves and are designed to receive pre cast concrete wall panels, curtain walls, block walls and other wall systems. Single source responsibility: As the complete building package is supplied by a single vendor, compatibility of all the building components and accessories is assured. This is one of the major benefits of the pre engineered building systems. Investigate various types of materials, which can be used for the factory and residential Buildings in this project. Materials used for pre-fabricated buildings Prefabricated building materials are used for buildings that are manufactured off site and shipped later to assemble at the final location. Some of the commonly used prefabricated building materials are aluminum, steel, wood, fiberglass and concrete. Prefabricated metal buildings use galvanized steel and galvalume as the chief materials for building. Galvalume is a form of steel coated with aluminum-zinc. This is to protect the building against corrosion, rust and fire. It also provides a sturdy and protective covering to the prefabricated building. Almost all the components of a metal building such as beams, frames, columns, walls and roofs, are made of steel. Most prefabricated military buildings use steel or aluminum frames. Synthetic materials are used for the walls and roofs. To provide enhanced security, a combination of both metal and cloth materials are used. Plastic flooring materials can be quickly assembled and are very durable. Prefabricated building materials used for small prefabricated buildings are steel, wood, fiberglass, plastic or aluminum materials. These materials are cheaper than regular brick and concrete buildings. Materials like steel, fiberglass, wood and aluminum are used as prefabricated building materials for sports buildings. These materials provide flexibility and are preferred for making structures and accessories like stands and seats for stadium and gyms. For making low cost houses, prefabricated materials like straw bale, Ferro cement, Calcium silicate products, composites and other cheap wood based materials are currently being used. Calcium silicate bricks are strong and durable. Ferro cement consists of a cement matrix reinforced with a mesh of closely-spaced iron rods or wires. In this type of construction, the techniques used are simple and quick. Using prefabricated materials one can make durable, water and fire resistant and cheap prefabricated buildings. Most of the prefabricated building materials are eco-friendly and affordable. Steel Aluminum Wood Fiberglass Materials used for pre-engineered buildings Steel / Stainless steel Galvalume roof sheeting Stainless steel capped fasteners Silicon zed polyester baked-on enamel paint Various types of materials Steel For prefabricated buildings, steel and galvalume materials are used. Galvalume is a form of steel coated with aluminum-zinc. This is to protect the building against corrosion, rust and fire. It also provides a sturdy and protective covering to the prefabricated building. Most of components are built in steel in prefabrication buildings such as beams, frames, columns, walls and roofs, are made of steel. Aluminum Most prefabricated buildings use aluminum as a material for frames. It can be widow frames or door frames. Because of its light weight it is very useful for prefabrication building production. Wood These materials provide flexibility and are preferred for making structures and accessories like stands and seats for stadium and gyms. And wood use for prefabricated buildings for some of the components. It is not a most probably used material. This material is used for making of law cost prefabricated homes. Fiberglass The fiberglass material is used for the partition walls in the buildings. And its light weight is useful for constructing prefabricated buildings. And for doors and window frames, doors fiberglass is used. Advantages of Per Fabricated Buildings Prefabricated homes can be ordered and transported straight to your block.  You can organize the stumping and plumbing and electrical connections or have it pre ordered into the overall package. Prefabricated homes cause less damage to the environment than conventional brick homes.  They can be mass produced or fabricated to your design and are quick to build so it will save you rent as brick homes tend to be dragged out with different contractors being involved. They will cost a lot less, than a double brick home by far.  They can be insulated to reduce the cost of heating and cooling. Not only that they are environmentally friendly. The real  beauty  of one of these is if you have a real bad neighbor you can up and take your home and chattels to another town without any problems. As it saves time It saves money and labour Enables money and standardization. Enhances aesthetic appeal. It is lightweight and easy to transport. Easy to installing and maintaining: i.e. rust, fire, and pest retardant and insulated. It is re-locatable and eco-friendly. The disadvantages of prefabricated homes The cost of your prefabricated home will depend on the site your home will be put on.  Site costs will vary from block to block. If you are doing the stumping etc yourself then that is not a problem.  If they need to factor that into the price they will need to make varying changes to prices due to level and position of the block where the prefabricated home will be built. Your choice of prefabricated home will be affected by your particular budget.  Low cost designs may suit those on a tight budget.  Then if you can afford the better styles, then price may not affect your decision. The better high quality designs are made for the higher income families and could be out of your price range. Prefabricated homes are improving like other forms of buildings and the main advantage of a prefabricated home is the potential to reduce the harmful impact on our environment.  This is one of the worlds biggest concerns these days. Materials used for pre-engineered buildings Steel / Stainless steel Galvalume roof sheeting Stainless steel capped fasteners Silicon zed polyester baked-on enamel paint The Advantages of pre-engineered buildings Fast erection Low cost if choosing manufacturers standard package/inventory and no add on Open clear span Can be easily expanded to grow with needs The disadvantages of pre-engineered buildings Marginal design, material and construction Not energy efficient Higher lifetime maintenance Not durable for long term use, generally last 10 to 15 years May not include all construction/fit-up needed for the building to serve the intended purpose. No secondary roof membrane Usually no internal finished walls Pre-engineered steel fabric buildings vs. Conventional steel buildings Steel Fabric Structures Conventional Steel Buildings Overall Price Price per square foot is about 30% lower than conventional steel More expensive than a pre-engineered steel fabric building Maintenance Costs The building and fabric cover is virtually maintenance free. The fabric will not attract or hold dirt contaminants and proves to be self-cleaning Shingling or painting may be necessary to maintain the outside of the building Interior Clear span throughout building does not interfere with any operations Columns or posts may need to be in place to maintain structural integrity of the building Corrosion Our buildings are made with hot dipped galvanized steel and are corrosion resistant Due to the exterior of the building being exposed in all weather conditions, corrosion may become an issue Temperature Control Our membrane fabric cover had non-conductive qualities keeping buildings cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter Steel buildings are conductive of heat, creating a virtual oven in hot weather conditions Operational Costs Lower costs for lighting, heat, and A/C due to non-conductive translucent cover Operational costs are higher for lighting, heat, and A/C Future Expansions Our buildings are easily expandable and reloadable. Can be used as a temporary and permanent structure. Steel buildings are permanent and cannot be relocated. Expansion will be timely and costly, if possible. Foundation Foundation can be as little as Footings at truss and end column base plate locations. Foundation requirements are typically a fraction of that of similar conventional buildings. Extensive, heavy foundation required Installation and delivery Depending on the size of the Structure installation takes an average of 7-10 days. Delivery after order takes about 6-12 weeks. Delivery of material averages From 20 to 26 weeks. Installation Time is more than double that of a steel fabric structure. Noise Sound absorbing covers keep building quiet even during adverse weather conditions Buildings are loud during rain and hail storms creating unpleasant working conditions Condensation Our membrane fabric design allows natural light to filter through the building while keeping out moisture and condensation Condensation is a known problem in steel buildings and can damage the building and its contents Structure weight Pre engineered buildings are on the average 30% lighter because of the efficient use of steel. Primary framing members are tapered built up section. With the large depths in areas of higher stress. Secondary members are light weight roll formed Z or C shaped members. Primary steel members are selected hot rolled T sections. Which are, in many segments of the members heavier than what is actually required by design? Members have constant cross section regardless of the varying magnitude of the local stresses  along the member length Secondary members are selected from standard hot rolled sections which are much heavier. Design Quick and efficient: since PEBs are mainly formed by standard sections and connections design, time is significantly reduced. Basic design based on international design codes are used over and over. Specialized computer analysis design programs optimize material required. Drafting is also computerized using standard detail that minimizes the use of project custom details. Design shop detail sketches and erection drawings are supplied free of cost by the manufacturer. Approval drawing is usually prepared within in 2 weeks. PEB designers design and detail PEB buildings almost every day of the year resulting in improving the quality of designs every time they work Each conventional steel structure is designed from scratch with fewer design aids available to the engineer. Substantial engineering and detailing work is required from the very basic is required by the consultant with fewer design aids. Extensive amount of consultant time is devoted to the alterations that have to be done. As each project is a new project engineers need more time to develop the designs and details of the unique structure. Erection simplicity Since the connection of compounds is standard the learning curve of erection for each subsequent project is faster. Periodic free of charge erection is provided at the site by the manufacturer. The connections are normally complicated and differ from project to project resulting tin increasing the time for erection of the buildings. There has to be separate allocation of labour for the purpose of erection. Erection cost and time Both costs and time of erection are accurately known based upon extensive experience with similar buildings. The erection process is faster and much easier with very less requirement for equipment. Typically, conventional steel buildings are 20% more expensive than PEB in most of the cases, the erection costs and time are not estimated accurately. Erection process is slow and extensive field labors required. Heavy equipment is also needed. Architecture Outstanding architectural design can be achieved at low cost using standard architectural details and interfaces. Special architectural design and features must be developed for each project which often requires research and thus resulting in higher cost. Sourcing and coordination Building is supplied complete with all accessories including erection for a single ONE STOP SOURCE. Many sources of supply are there so it becomes difficult to co ordinate and handle the things. Building accessories Designed to fit the system with standardized and inter changeable parts. Including pre designed flashing and trims. Building accessories are mass produced for economy and are available with the building. Every project requires different and special design for accessories and special sourcing for each item. Flashing and trims must be uniquely designed and fabricated. Future expansions All project records are safely and orderly kept in electronic format which makes it easy for the owner to obtain a copy of his building record at any time. Future expansion is very easy and simple. It would be difficult to obtain project records after a long period of time. It is required to contact more than one number of parties. Future expansion is most tedious and more costly. Safety and responsibility Single source of responsibility is there because the entire job is being done by one supplier. Multiple responsibilities can result in question of who is responsible when the components do not fit in properly, insufficient material is supplied or parts fail to perform particularly at the supplier/contractor interface. Performance All components have been specified and designed specially to act together as a system for maximum efficiency, precise fir and peak performance in the field. Experience with similar buildings, in actual field conditions worldwide, has resulted in design improvements over time, which allows dependable prediction of performance. Components are custom designed for a specific application on a specific job. Design and detailing errors are possible when assembling the diverse components into unique buildings. Each building design is unique, so predication, of how components will perform together is uncertain. Materials which have performed well in some climates may not do well in other conditions. Explain the appropriateness, advantages and disadvantages of using prefabricated buildings in the project The advantages of having prefabricated buildings in this project Prefabricated buildings can be ordered and transported straight to your block.  Client can organize the stumping and plumbing and electrical connections or have it pre ordered into the overall package. Prefabricated buildings cause less damage to the environment than conventional brick buildings.  They can be mass produced or fabricated to the design and are quick to build so it will save you rent as brick buildings tend to be dragged out with different contractors being involved. They will cost a lot less, than a double brick building by far.  They can be insulated to reduce the cost of heating and cooling. Not only that they are environmentally friendly. The disadvantages of having prefabricated buildings in this project The cost of your prefabricated building will depend on the site your home will be put on.  Site costs will vary from block to block. If you are doing the stumping etc yourself then that is not a problem.  If they need to factor that into the price they will need to make varying changes to prices due to level and position of the block where the prefabricated home will be built. The choice of prefabricated building will be affected by your particular budget.  Low cost designs may suit those on a tight budget.  Then if you can afford the better styles, then price may not affect your decision. Prefabricated homes are improving like other forms of buildings and the main advantage of a prefabricated home is the potential to reduce the harmful impact on our environment.  This is one of the worlds biggest concerns these days. The advantages of having a prefabricated steel building Steel is a remarkable material that has been steadily increasing in popularity for construction. It is 66% recyclable, which offers both environmental and financial benefits, and is especially strong and durable. There are a number of options available for building with steel, and one of the most innovative of those options are pre-engineered steel buildings. They are planned, designed and almost pre-built at the factory itself. They just have to be assembled after they reach the building site. They are pre-drilled, pre-cut and pre-welded and just need to be bolted together. This can often be done quickly and with a minimum of professional assistance, and sometimes with none at all. They are quicker, easier and almost 50% less expensive than conventional buildings. Besides, they can be designed as per exact specifications. Elements of the site, other buildings in the area, proposed purpose, and other elements can be taken into consideration. This is the reason for the increasing use of pre-engineered steel buildings for schools, offices, houses, stores, churches and recreational places. Pre-engineered steel buildings, which have no support columns, are known as clear-span buildings. Though they maximize floor space, they cannot be expanded in width. On the other hand, multi-span buildings have unlimited scope for expansion and are thus are often a popular choice for offices and residential buildings. Pre-engineered steel homes have also become very popular in recent years. They offer affordability and flexibility, among many other benefits. There are two kinds of pre-engineered steel buildings: modular and manufactured homes. The only difference is that manufactured homes need not be built as per the building codes, unlike modular homes. For this reason, modular homes are often considered to be more sturdy and reliable. Whether youre creating a manufactured home, modular home, or even a new office, pre-engineered steel buildings offer a vast array of affordable and durable options. Specification for a Pre-fabricated building Panels for a Pre-fabricated building < Curriculum | Definition and Analysis Curriculum | Definition and Analysis CURRICULUM Definition of Curriculum â€Å"A curriculum is more than a list of topics to be covered by an educational programme, for which the more commonly accepted word is a ‘syllabus. A curriculum is first of all a policy statement about a piece of education, and secondly an indication as to the ways in which that policy is to be realised through a programme of action. In practice, though, a curriculum is more than even this; it is useful to think of it as being much wider. As a working definition of a curriculum I would say that it is the sum of all the activities, experiences and learning opportunities for which an institution (such as the Society) or a teacher (such as a faculty member) takes responsibility either deliberately or by default. This includes in such a broad concept of curriculum the formal and the informal, the overt and the covert, the recognised and the overlooked, the intentional and the unintentional. A curriculum is determined as much by what is not offered, and what has been rejected, a s it is by positive actions. And very importantly the curriculum that actually happens that is what is realised in practice includes informal contact between teachers and learners as well as between the learners themselves, and this has been termed ‘the hidden curriculum which often has as much influence on what is learnt as the formal curriculum that is written down as a set of intentions. And it includes what you decide to do on the spur of the moment. So in fact it is useful to think of there being three faces to a curriculum: the curriculum on paper; the curriculum in action; and the curriculum that participants actually learn.† Coles C (2003) Product, Process or Praxis. That is the question. Which curriculum model relates to my own teaching? Firstly I should identify the main theories that are associated with the curriculum and the learning process, as I understand them. The main ones that come to mind are: n Curriculum as product n Curriculum as process n Curriculum as praxis n Curriculum as context There are other theories but the above seem to have the express the basics of the curriculum and how we learn, each has its own supporters. Curriculum as Product What is the dictionary definition of product? Product, (noun) thing that which is produced by effort or labour, or that produced as a result of an act or process, from the Latin prodoceo, to lead or bring forth. What is the relevance to the curriculum? The process of learning is likened to that of producing a product, or something tangible, Bobbitt wrote The central theory [of curriculum] is simple. Human life, however varied, consists in the performance of specific activities. Education that prepares for life is one that prepares definitely and adequately for these specific activities. However numerous and diverse they may be for any social class they can be discovered. This requires only that one go out into the world of affairs and discover the particulars of which their affairs consist. These will show the abilities, attitudes, habits, appreciations and forms of knowledge that men need. These will be the objectives of the curriculum. They will be numerous, definite and particularized. The curriculum will then be that series of experiences which children and youth must have by way of obtaining those objectives. F Bobbitt (1918) We start by knowing nothing; we learn and apply our learning to our actions. It is like a manufacturing process in the way that it progresses, starting with the idea and through a series of logical step and sequences we arrive at the product or outcome. Step 1: Diagnosis of need Step 2: Formulation of objectives Step 3: Selection of content Step 4: Organization of content Step 5: Selection of learning experiences Step 6: Organization of learning experiences Step 7: Determination of what to evaluate and of the ways and means of doing it.(Taba 1962) With the Product model it makes for more precise assessment, provides structure and content, makes teachers more aware of differing types and levels, avoids vague general statements, everything is clearly laid out, learners know what is required of them to achieve, and teachers to be able to direct the learners in the correct pathway. It is very much a teacher orientated model, where the learner is very much a secondary entity; it is about how the information is given. The product model is linked closely with behaviourism also called learning perspectives, where the physical action is behaviour. Studies in this area have been undertaken by Skinner and Gestalt, following upon the work undertaken by Pavlov. Curriculum as a Process The focus of this model is on the teaching activities and the teachers role, with the learners activities having the biggest impact. The focus is on interactions. This can mean that attention shifts from teaching to learning. This is where learning takes place. The emphasis in this model is â€Å"the means† rather than â€Å"the end†. In the process model the curriculum is not a physical thing but rather the interaction between the teacher, the learner and the knowledge. The curriculum is what actually happens in the classroom, and what we do to prepare and evaluate. Each element is constantly interacting. It is an active process, and links back to Aristotle. The focus is on learning and the fact that the learner has a voice in the way the lesson proceeds and the nature of the learning activities. There is an emphasis on the active roles of the teachers and the learners, with the emphasis being on learning rather than teaching. There is a more rounded approach in this model as it looks at learning for life rather than specific functions. L Stenhouse (1975) likened it to: A curriculum is an attempt to communicate the essential principles and features of an educational proposal in such a form that it is open to critical scrutiny and capable of effective translation into practice. Curriculum as Praxis â€Å"Curriculum as praxis is, in many respects, a development of the process model. While the process model is driven by general principles and places an emphasis on judgment and meaning making, it does not make explicit statements about the interests it serves. It may, for example, be used in such a way that does not make continual reference to collective human well-being and to the emancipation of the human spirit. The praxis model of curriculum theory and practice brings these to the centre of the process and makes an explicit commitment to emancipation. Thus action is not simply informed, it is also committed. It is praxis.† (Wikipedia) Not very clear to the layperson. What do we/I understand by the term â€Å"Praxis†. The dictionary definition reads: 1. Practical application or exercise of a branch of learning. 2. Habitual or established practice; custom. (The Free Dictionary) Going one step further:  · translating an idea into action; a hard theory to put into practice; differences between theory and praxis of communism (The Free Dictionary) In short, thinking about what I do, and the way that I do it, not because I am told to do it, because I have my own values about the way it should be done, this influences the way that I do things. This model takes into account the experiences of both the learner and the teacher, and through discussion and negotiations, recognises there may be problems. There may be common ground but this will only come about through mutual self-respect. That is, the curriculum is not simply a set of plans to be implemented, but rather is constituted through an active process in which planning, acting and evaluating are all reciprocally related and integrated into the process (Grundy 1987: 115) Curriculum as Content Broadly speaking the curriculum is the same as the syllabus, and the topics that are to be taught. This is the content in which the curriculum is set. It is the examinations that shape the curriculum, the setting within society, the demands and aspirations of industry. The relationship between learner and teacher, the organisation of classes the tracking of progress. Back to the opening question, which model influences the curriculum in my own teaching? It would have to be the Product model, with occasional use of the Process model. I am taking learners who have little or no knowledge. I am teaching them the application, and they are in turn applying this knowledge to meet required assessment criteria. There are clear aims and objectives. Learning is structured, by me to meet the specified outcomes. There are no general statements of intent. The learners know from the outset what is required of them to achieve the goal at the end; I am there to facilitate their learning. Is this model too rigid? Would I change it? The curriculum lends itself to this model. The final assessment is a formal examination to assess the learners ability to perform specific tasks. These tasks are those that would be required to be undertaken within the work-place. The learner, upon completion of the course and having successfully completed the summative assessment, will be competent to take their place within the workplace, able to meet the demands of industry. They started with nothing and have achieved their goal. What is a meant by or understood by the term curriculum? The dictionary definition reads as follows: 1. All the courses of study offered by an educational institution. 2. A group of related courses, often in a special field of study: e.g. the engineering curriculum. (Wikipedia) If that is so what is a syllabus? * An outline or a summary of the main points of a text, lecture, or course of study. (Wikipedia) It is not very clear, to either a professional or a layperson. We have the educational curricula, simplified, that which is taught in educational establishments, in short the syllabus. Then we have the total curriculum including the informal curriculum, this could be regarded as the sum total of the subjects that the learner is learning. We then have the hidden curriculum, â€Å"the hidden curriculum is taught by the school, not by any teachersomething is coming across to the pupils which may never be spoken in the English lesson or prayed about in assembly. They are picking-up an approach to living and an attitude to learning.† Meighan (1981). And so it goes on, the planned curriculum, the received curriculum, the formal curriculum, the informal curriculum, Kelly A V, (2004) According to Alan Rogers (2002), methods and content together make up the curriculum. There is relatively very little material related to curriculum in adult or lifelong education; most of the work on curriculum has been done in schools, Griffins (1983) concentrates on philosophical concepts of the adult curriculum and tends to neglect more practical aspects of the curriculum. Curriculum is seen as a body of knowledge, the content of education to which the students need to be exposed. It is not what you say, but how you say it! The Lifelong Learning Sector My Curriculum area I am employed within the adult/lifelong learning sector, supporting learners in ICT. This is over a variety of disciplines and software applications, Secretarial disciplines using Microsoft applications, text and word processing, using MS Word, presentations using MS PowerPoint, data management using MS Access and financial and mathematical work using MS Excel. There are a number of qualifications and routes for the learner to follow. I am also supporting learners through computerised accountancy and payroll applications, using Sage to progress within this sector of industry. The majority of learners that I come into contact with are in the process of up-skilling, looking at new career opportunities and openings, looking at updating their own personal skills, and adding to their CV. The use of IT within the workplace has doubled to 77%, with an estimated 22m4 using technology at work. ICT is now a part of everyday life, and no matter what position you are employed in there will be the need to have some knowledge of what a computer can do, how they are used. However there has been a 50% reduction in the number of adults taking up funded ICT provision since 2004/5, largely as a result of shorter courses being displaced by longer qualification-bearing provision. The complexity of the current system of different learning providers, funding routes and qualification outcomes make it harder to access the skills that adults need to get on line.1 Government does not make it easy for adults to access the training that they need, as detailed above. The number who lack basic skills has reduced, there is still a significant percentage who lack the basic skills to access ICT, not only skills but financial support. Digital Life Skills are essential to all adults as they will benefit from: Social Inclusion Equality to access Information and Services Employability Business Productivity Learning and Skills This is a need identified by Government as an area that needs addressing: n an estimated 22m people use technology at work 77% of the working population. (ICT User Skills Report) n a lack of basic ICT skills will be a disadvantage in both finding and securing a new job?(ICT User Skills Report) Are there other factors that affect adult learners? Industry has an impact on what the learners need to study, what is required as a benchmark for employability. It is our job to ensure that we meet the criteria that is laid down to meet the needs of industry, whilst ensuring that we meet the syllabus required by the Examining Board, occasionally the two do not agree. The Learning and Skills Council (LSC) is responsible for funding all adult skills provision. Since 2004/05, although the overall budget has increased, there has been a 23% decline in enrolments on LSC funded programmes as funding has been focused on longer, qualification-bearing courses. (ICT User Skills Report) A large proportion of this decline has been in ICT programmes. Data provided by the LSC Data Service suggests that over the same period there has been a 54% reduction in enrolments on ICT courses to just under 700,000 in 2007/08, and a 50% reduction in learners to 485,000 learners in 2007/08. (ICT User Skills report) There is the legacy of what adults did not learn in their formative years in the education system. Their lack of basic skills can affect all future learning, they may be turned off by the thought of learning in adulthood, having fears of the classroom, as they remember it. Not a pleasant experience and one not to be repeated. The prioritisation of courses leading to literacy, numeracy and full Level 2 appears to have displaced ICT provision of less than 50 hours at Entry and Level 1 in FE. The majority of this provision (75%) was accredited. Another area that affects adult learners undertaking training is that of a financial nature. Is training to expensive? Who will pay? Equipment is expensive? Is help available? Will my benefits be affected? To some, the benefits of training are outweighed by the problems of everyday living, and until these concerns are addressed they continue as they are. What is Evaluation? Evaluation is systematic determination of merit, worth, and significance of something or someone using criteria against a set of standards. Evaluation often is used to characterise and appraise subjects of interest in a wide range of human enterprises. (Wikipedia) What is Assessment? Educational assessment is the process of documenting, usually in measurable terms, knowledge, skills, attitudes and beliefs. Assessment can focus on the individual learner, the learning community (class, workshop, or other organized group of learners), the institution, or the educational system as a whole. (Wikipedia) In my role as a teacher do I assess or do I evaluate? As a reflective practitioner do I assess or evaluate? In my role in the classroom it is important that I spend my time with the learner. The learner should be the main focus of my attention. I should ensure that they are engaged in the learning process. I start out with a plan of what we will be doing (lesson plan) throughout the session, they as learners or the group, me as the teacher, what they will be doing and what I will be doing to support them. I will be engaging with learners throughout the session, advising, supporting, encouraging, and providing feedback. All the learners that I come into contact with receive formative feedback through the use of QA, tutorials, one to ones, practice examination papers and general support. They finally have summative feedback through a formal examination process. These forms of summative assessment are laid down by the qualification bodies, as they do with the syllabus that is to be studied. It is my responsibility, along with my colleagues and peers adapt the curriculum to ensure that we meet all of the criteria required. I would therefore consider that in the classroom I undertake the role of an assessor. It would be wrong to say that I am not evaluating, I consider the evaluation process to be an ongoing process. The assessment process is â€Å"here and now†, I am assessing a learners ability to undertake specific tasks, to achieve a specific goal, which is measureable, and meets the required standards as determined by outside bodies. Evaluation is undertaken as an ongoing process from the time I am advised that a class or programme of learning is to be undertaken. This process has two differing facets to it, that of QI (Quality Improvement) and QA (Quality Assurance). Do we undertake one or both of these roles? Immediate reaction is to say â€Å"yes†, but after consideration the truthful answer may be â€Å"no†. We may aspire to the former but that is all. We as teachers are more concerned with the learners and statistics, retention and achievement, s by which we are measured, and which our employers rely upon. Poor achievement and retention leads to reduced funding, a course which is not viable, and therefore it will not run! Quality assurance is the bigger picture, that which we as front line staff strive to achieve but attain infrequently, and which we rely on our managers, employers and senior staff members to take on board on our behalf. The external agencies that monitor our teaching and all aspects of all that we undertake the examining bodies, LSC, Ofsted and all Government regulatory bodies, together with our internal monitoring and recording strategies, observations, SARs, internal verifiers. Do we have the time to participate? Do we have the time to look at the bigger picture? It would be nice to be able to look at the curriculum from a number of differing prospectives, management, teacher and learners. Look at the syllabus, how does it fit into the curriculum. Are there sufficient resources available to meet the needs of learners, are they the right resources? Does the course meet the needs of industry? So many questions, we may aspire to do many things but realistically there are so many outside influences that affect the curriculum that our teaching takes priority, we think others will pick up the QI that we are not able to address. My curriculum, is there room for improvement? Is there need for change? Evidence used in the completing of this document has been taken from end of course reviews submitted by learners, past and present. Hard data in the form of registers and external examination board summative feedback, together with verbal feedback from learners past and present. Teaching ICT in the Lifelong Learning sector brings me into contact with adult learners, looking to raise their skills base through ICT, studying for pleasure, greater use of ICT within the home environment using the Internet and Email, retraining to enter or re-enter the job market. Funding issues have seen a decline within this area and the number of adult learners has dropped. Employers are aware of the need to up skill their staff, and are know taking the necessary steps to enable their staff to review their training needs. The courses that I support are fairly well subscribed to, those that run for a longer period tend to have significantly lower retention and achievement rates, even when fees are being paid. Is this due to the structure of the course and qualification, the times that the sessions are scheduled, the resources that the learners are supplied with? We offer a range of sessions to accommodate learners at different times. Location can be viewed as an issue, being out of town restricts access to a degree. Learners who are unemployed are offered assistance with transport costs. Equipment could be highlighted as a possible issue; if learners had computers/laptops in their own environment would they study there, if we were able to support them? Adults are more likely to be self motivated to complete a course of study. If they drop out what are the reasons for doing so, should we check and compile meaningful data to promote a better culture of learning. Should we look at differing learning styles, and have different approaches to make the learning process more user friendly and less regimented? The majority of the classes that I support are held in the evening, and the majority of learners work during the day time. This is the time that suits them best. However, such long hours are not conducive to the learning process. Learners become tired and make mistakes. This is not born out in the latest set of results and achievement. Are learners building themselves up for the final summative assessment, the exam? Would they be better working at home if the had access to the specialist applications? They are not able to practice in the work-place. In an ideal world all learners would have access to the necessary equipment and applications. Learners would be accommodated in the classroom or in their own location, with support at specified times. There would be a range of resources to accommodate individual learners. Formative assessment would be undertaken on a regular basis, both on a face to face basis, and using email following marked work. Summative assessments would only be undertaken in the classroom. Nothing is perfect, these are suggestions, and everything ultimately revolves around finance. Conclusion The curriculum is a constantly changing and evolving entity or process. It can be affected by many outside influences. Social, governmental and financial, to name but a few, all have an impact of the way the curriculum is evolving. We, as reflective practitioners, have a responsibility to reflect these changes in our teaching, to ensure that our learners have a rounded knowledge and well-being of the changes within our society. References AV Kelly (1999) The Curriculum, Theory and Practice, 5th Edition (Sage) Coles, C., (2003) Second Spine Course of the Spine Society of Europe Barcelona 16th 19th September 2003 Bobbitt, F. (1928) How to Make a Curriculum, Boston: (Houghton) Taba, H. (1962) Curriculum Development: Theory and practice, New York: (Harcourt Brace and World). Bloom B. S. (1956).Taxonomy of Educational Objectives, Handbook I: The Cognitive Domain. New York: David McKay Co Inc. Stenhouse, L (1975) An introduction to Curriculum Research and Development, London http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Curriculum_and_instruction#Curriculum_as_praxis [Accessed 09 December2009] http://www.thefreedictionary.com/praxis [Accessed 12 December 2009] Grundy, S. (1987) Curriculum: Product or Praxis, Lewes: Falmer Alan Rogers (2002) Teaching Adults 2nd Edition OUP HM Government (2009) Independent Review of ICT User Skills Report Baroness Estelle Morris 230-09-SK-b