How the Grinch stole Christmas Poem Essay

â€Å"How the Grinch stole Christmas† is a well-known and important poem in the literary canon. This poem simply talks about how the Grinch plans to ruin Christmas for the Whos in Who Ville, which then backfires and leads to self-realization for the Grinch. I decided to use the psychoanalytical theory to demonstrate the persona of the Grinch, and to unravel the possible reasons for his drive towards belligerence and destruction. To commence, it is obvious the Grinch has no interactions with the people of Who Ville, which explains his alienation. His noticeable difference amongst the other Whos was a result to his lack of conformity. His plan to ruin Christmas for the Whos was perhaps an indication of an unconscious desire for his own downfall. Watching the Whos surrounded with happiness brings about the Grinch’s decision to inject some trouble into the celebration. He anticipated his own feelings of displeasure and misery onto the Whos when he predicted that they would all cry â€Å"boo, who† upon discovering that they would not be celebrating Christmas. The Grinch’s tendency toward cynicism, hostility, and aggression demonstrates his desire for destruction. His desire for destruction stems from the fact that he feels isolated. Thus, he tends to destroy the joy of the people in Who Ville, with the tendency of making them reach the same level of depression and misery he is in. The Grinch wanted the Whos’ merry-making to come to an end, despite their needs and wants. This poem presented psychological theories in the Grinch. The Grinch’s thoughts and actions in this poem is a proof of this work being under the psychoanalytic theory. I learned from this poem by analyzing the character is that people with a sensitive sense of social isolation, appear to have a decreased response to things that make most people happy, and have a keen urge towards human conflict, manipulation and conspiracies.

Gender Roles in America Essay

The distinction between the roles of men and women in America is a modern societal dichotomy. What were once the black and white duties of the 1950’s had paled into various shades of grey by the 21st century. The Ozzie and Harriet roles of the 1950’s and early 1960’s were challenged, redefined and sometimes ignored through the decades that followed. Women were demanding and being granted the opportunity to advance professional careers, explore alternative lifestyles, or forego the classic marriage family and be a single parent. In other cases the parenting roles were completely reversed as pointed out by Glenn Sacks in his essay Stay-at-Home Dads (277). During the 1950’s, traditional American society expected women to marry young, have children and support their husband’s career. There was a sort of stigma associated with the 30 year old spinster addressed with the title Miss. This position was reinforced with the social media of the time. Books like Dr. Spock’s, Babies and Child Care argued that women working outside the home actually risked their children’s mental and emotional health! The primary social media of the time, television and movies, also promoted the division of roles with actresses like Doris Day, Harriet Nelson and Barbara Billingsley playing the supportive wife and caring mother; while the likes of Ozzie Nelson, Hugh Beaumont and Cary Grant were the successful dominating male with the last word in all subjects. Men were expected to be a successful all knowing and authoritative figure, working the classic nine to five job. Those who did not fit this mold were considered by society as unmanly, lazy, failures, or just plain no-good. The only acceptable exception to this model of the male persona was the dashing consummate bachelor portrayed by actors such as John Wayne, William Shatner, and Sean Connery. Women had no such exception. The unmarried female of the time was usually portrayed as Gidget (Sandra Dee), Jeannie (Barbara Eden), Sister Bertrille (Sally Fields) or That Girl’s Anne Marie (Marlo Thomas). Over the course of the next few decades women made dramatic strides towards social equality. Bras were burned, the pill brought on sexual freedom and the no-fault clause in divorce helped free women from the repressive shackles placed on them by the male dominated societal norm. Slowly and somewhat grudgingly, society responded to the female pressures by accepting more and more crossover roles by both women and men. The social differences between he roles of men and women began to blur as less value was placed on the traditional and both sexes began to appear in the workplace in what had previously been opposite gender roles. Areas like engineering, construction and manufacturing saw a permanent influx of women; jobs held temporarily by females during the war years of 1941 to 1945. Concurrently, men began to gravitate towards roles as nurses, teachers, and homemakers. In spite of all the work towards equality and sameism (a word I coined to describe the merging of the gender roles) men are still primarily locked into the role of provider and modern women are painted into a corner; expected to do all the female things and most of the male things while still being athletic, sexy, willing, attractive and smart. According to author Steven Hinshaw, â€Å"Our teenage girls are baffled, distressed, and overwhelmed (by) a set of impossible, contradictory expectations† (301), a situation he terms as a triple bind. Conversely young men are now expected to be seen as strong, brave, successful, sensitive, insightful, supportive and totally accepting of the woman’s new role while still knowing when to open doors and pay for the movie tickets. As we now enter the second decade of the 21st Century, there is no shortage of women doing men’s jobs or vice-versa. The blending of traditional male-female roles has become the norm and the old-style well defined roles of breadwinner and housewife are all but extinct. There is however, a growing trend of the liberated woman moving back into the traditional role of homemaker as they age and decide that they have missed something and now wish to express their maternal feelings. Thus, although modern society fosters the acceptance of more gender neutral roles through education, training and non-discrimination laws it also emphasizes the traditional roles as the desired outcome. So we find ourselves faced with the blurry gray dichotomy of how to meet the politically correct demands of society and still meet the individual needs of the members of that society.

What are the pros and cons of company's IPO Should company be floated Essay

What are the pros and cons of company's IPO Should company be floated at all - Essay Example Although the aim of growth is to bring benefits to the company, there exist both pros and cons that can arise from this process of going public (Helwege 2004, p.541). Pros and cons of Initial Public Offer (IPO) There are several advantages that accrue to a company by going public. As mentioned above, the principal advantage is the financial benefit through raising capital. An IPO adds a value on the company's stock. In addition, those insiders retaining stock are able to sell their shares or even use them as collateral (Datta 2000, p.715). Going public also creates a currency type in the form of its stock, which can be used in making acquisitions. In addition, there is a possibility that the company can access the capital markets for its future financing needs. Overall, a company's debt-to-equity ratio improves considerably after an initial public offering, which indicates that the business is likely to earn more favorable loan terms from its lenders (Datta 2000, p. 716). Another adv antage is the increase of public awareness of the company. IPOs normally produce more publicity by increasing the awareness of their products to a new group of potential customers. Subsequently this is expected to increase the company’s market share. The founders can also use the IPO as an exit strategy. Many venture capitalists have tried this in an attempt to open up successful companies (Hao 2007, p.112). For others, the prestige associated with the public companies or a post of a director or officer of any public company has a certain allure. Furthermore, going public puts the company ahead for promotion. The publicly traded companies are mostly better known than non-publicly traded ones. The company can gain publicity and a stable image by trading publicly. This makes the public companies offer a wide variety of stock, which has a considerable potential of significant appreciation in value. Those companies will trade publicly and portray a positive image hence attracting highly qualified personnel at all levels of management. It is possible to view such companies as growth-oriented hence their duty is to answer to a board of directors and shareholders who in turn demand increased profitability as frequent as possible, and also act quickly to solve managerial problems and also replace those senior executives who are performing poorly (Benninga 2005, p.117). Although the benefits of an IPO are many, there are certain challenges. One outstanding challenge is the disclosure of information to investors. There is a high cost of complying with the regulatory requirements. Other costs that will also arise include the generation of financial reporting documents and audit fees (Hao 2007, p.112). This will subject the public companies to added pressure of the market. This may force them to focus mainly on short-term results rather than their long-term growth. Since the investor is keen on profits, management will be under scrutiny. This may trigger the manage ment to engage in questionable practices in order to increase earnings. Another setback of going public is that these public companies operate under precise scrutiny. There is disclosure of confidential information touching on the company including those transactions with management; the prospectus divulges prior violation of security law and executive compensation. This may be confidential information belonging to the company that it may be reluctant to reveal. Furthermore, formalisation of the decision-making process follows and with less flexibility when the shareholders are also there. This may bring complexities to these companies. Previously, decision making was quite flexible due to the presence of few people. The company is also subject to

Marriott Analysis Assessment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Marriott Analysis Assessment - Essay Example However, the article goes further to state that companies such as Apple and Google lack in diversity and the author goes further to prove this statement by offering the latest statistics regarding this issue. 61% of all google employees are white while the rest is made up of Hispanics and other races. Moreover, 72% of the workers in leadership positions are white and this shows that the company does not have racial balance and thus means that it does lack in diversity. Apple is another company analyzed in the article and the statistics for this company shows that 70% of the employees are white while the black community is the most sidelined with an employee population of only 7%. After going through the document, I got to understand the issue of diversity from a different perspective and this assisted me in understanding the advantages that this concept has on a company. A point in the article states that the companies that had recorded appropriate diversity ethics and were fair in the employment sector received awards. These awards are not only a sign of leadership in a particular category but also a sign of appreciation and it is such awards that market a company. If Marriott engages in the training plan that it has outlined, it is bound to excel. The plan shows the concept of diversity and this is in line with the mission statement that is further explained as accommodating ethical awareness. The fact that the company has a proposed code of ethics is a factor that is bound to improve the company’s employee retention. The reason behind this is that the code of ethics will ensure that all employees are treated fairy regardless of their race and consequently the minority group will feel safe and consequently have the encouragement to continue working in the organization. The fact that language courses will be offered in the organization is another

Figurative Language versus Literal Language Essay - 4

Figurative Language versus Literal Language - Essay Example Below are some of the most commonly used figurative expressions: Idioms, analogy, metaphor, simile, clichà ©, amphiboly, flame word, hyperbole, euphemism, and colloquialism. All are figurative expressions that may cause confusion and even misunderstanding to the ones that aren’t familiar with them. An idiom is a group of words or phrase that means something else differently from what it says literally. Idioms can actually be considered oral literature. They are passed down from generation to generation as part of culture. Example is â€Å"kick the bucket†, as in Mr. Jones kicked the bucket just yesterday! It would be senseless if a man just kicked a bucket. But kicking the bucket, idiomatically, means to die. It should be avoided in formal correspondences to avoid misunderstanding as idioms are generally geographic in nature. Analogy is another figurative expression that can be confusing. Analogy can be confusing if you do not know the references that the speaker uses in a sentence, especially if the speaker uses pop culture references (I will be a Marshall to your Lily. – in reference to the couple in the TV show How I Met Your Mother). But generally, it is quite useful in simplifying complicated ideas. For example, The CPU of the computer is like the brain; it is the commanding center. For students learning computer, it would be easy to remember: CPU = brain, but the elements used in idioms should be universally known to prevent misunderstandings. A metaphor, on the other hand, is similar to analogy but it does not compare two things directly. In a metaphor, the comparison is asserted to an otherwise unrelated object although one can argue that a metaphor is a type of analogy. A famous metaphor by Shakespeare goes: All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players; they have their exits and their entrances, from As You Like

Orientalism by Edward Said Movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Orientalism by Edward Said - Movie Review Example United States, Said had the unique advantage of experiencing different perspectives on the issue of Palestine-Israel conflict as well as broader Arabian politics. His works on the subject of Middle East politics are informed by his first hand experiences at these places, as well as a careful study of preceding scholarship by Western intellectuals. The primary criticism in his book Orientalism, as also seen in the documentary, is directed toward the stereotyped vision of Arabs in Western media and academia. This phenomenon, Said notes, is not something new, for its origins could be dated back to the Napoleonic conquest of Egypt in late eighteenth century. Behind the Western stereotyping of the Orient is the underlying belief that the surveyed geographies and peoples are somewhat backward and unrefined compared to Western civilization. What is also evident is the process of homogenization, whereby the vast mosaic of Oriental culture, language, social norms and religious beliefs are bracketed and abstracted into a unified whole. According to Said, â€Å"Orientalism identifies a range of strategies by which 19th and 20th century scholars, writers and artists imposed their authority on the East. The Orient was represented as a theatrical stage affixed to Europe, a place where jaded aristocrats, earnest second sons and tyrannical explorers could discover timeless truths, or perhaps unimagined erotic delights. Stereotypes of eastern wise men and exotic harems removed the colonial world from history altogether, substituting a timeless realm. Orientals are seen not as people but as problems, subjects, races†. (Burrows, 1999, p.50) But the reality is far from such constructions, as accounts of people who live in different regions of the Orient attest to. And as Said suggests in the documentary film, this set of illusions about the Middle East is not accidental or due to scholarly oversight. Said identifies a subtle difference between the stereotyping of the

Investigate the relationship between empathy and psychopathy Research Paper

Investigate the relationship between empathy and psychopathy - Research Paper Example Empathy is defined by the author as the individual ability to be able to feel other’s pain or distress, cognitively take another’s perspective and be able to see self in other’s situation as well as the ability to mirror another’s physical gesture all in the aim of being in harmony with the other person in a social context. Simultaneously, the lack of the ability to decipher non-verbal cues is a feature associated with several developmental disorders and is also an essential characteristic of psychopathy. This paper aims to examine and analyze the relationship between empathy and psychopathy. An empathic response is an emotional reaction in an observer to the affective state of another individual. Some have conceptualized empathy as a unitary process (Preston & de Waal, 2002) and have viewed empathy as a â€Å"super-ordinate category that includes all sub-classes of phenomena that share the same mechanism. This includes emotional contagion, sympathy, cognitive empathy, helping behavior, etc.† (p. 4). Blair (2005) argues that the term â€Å"empathy† encompasses different dissociable neurocognitive processes. He identifies three main divisions: cognitive, motor, and emotional empathy. The term affective empathy can be described as the ability to perceive accurately and understand emotionally how another person is feeling. According to Blair (2005) accurate perception of another’s feelings is sufficient to satisfy the definition of emotional empathy; however, accurate perception is a cognitive ability and one would need to also have a visceral experienc e of another’s emotion to label it as an affective experience. From the critical perspective, the construct of empathy is essential to understand the psychopathic personality disorder. The neurcognitive model of affect processing describes neural networks within the brain that are particularly concerned with deciphering the affective meaning of perceptual and auditory

Anotated Biography Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Anotated Biography - Research Paper Example He presents his experiment on the cadets of Israeli Air force flight school to support his argument. The paper gives an experimental insight into the use of simulation in training which will help develop a methodology for research Gonzales and Cathcart give a factual account of how human nature adapts itself to learning. What are the problems encountered and how the brain evolves eventually? This will be very useful in the literature review of our research as it will help find a co-relation between development and simulation/training. Salas explains how PC-based simulation games can be used to exploit the student’s cognitive skills in various real world domains. This work will be helpful in the research as it seeks to provide various ways in which simulation can be used in training teachers. The paper explores the use of PC-Based simulations in air crew coordination. How valid it is, how safe it is and in what way is it better. It provides some valid points which will be useful in the research. In this paper Kincaid draws comparison between the effectiveness of tradition and simulation based training in medicine. He and his colleagues came to this conclusion that simulation and simulators are being used without regard for cognition, design and training. This will be very useful in the critical analysis part of the paper. In this paper Kincaid draws comparison between the effectiveness of tradition and simulation based training in medicine. He and his colleagues came to this conclusion that simulation and simulators are being used without regard for cognition, design and training. This will be very useful in the critical analysis part of the paper. Kohn, Linda, T, Carrigan, , & Janet, (2000). To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health Sys-tem, Committee on Quality of Health Care in America. Retrieved 15th July 2010, from http://books.nap.edu/openbook.php?record_id=9728&page=R1 This is a detailed elaborate

Organisational Effectiveness Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Organisational Effectiveness - Essay Example It can be said that effectiveness translates into productivity where its absence can be projected in failure like, employee absenteeism and turnover, conflicts, performance instability and communication breakdown (Kaplan & Norton, 1996). Organizations that enjoy the benefits of effective organization for instance display features such as maximized output, lowered costs and advancement and excellence in technology. There are several methods of assessment techniques that can be adopted to determine the level of effectiveness that an organization is operating at. The varied methods can be as many as there are researchers in this field. Used at different times of necessity, the approaches target a different point of view on the organization (Cameron & Whetten, 1983). A few of these approaches are discussed in the paragraph below. When goal approach is adopted, the management attaches critical importance to the output or results that are achieved at the end of operational timeline (NCCI, 2007). The achieved output level is a measure of effectiveness in a proportionate relationship. Assessment could also be done using internal process approach where favourable results are deemed to emanate from the vital processes that are used to make transformations on input to achieve goals. Features of management such as coordination as well as employee welfare are given the centre stage in this approach. Ideally, output is the result of management and organization that is used to transform input towards achievement of goals. Alternatively, the system resource approach puts much emphasis on the acquisition capability of raw materials and other important resources from the environment that the organization has (NCCI, 2007). Effectiveness is attached to the efficiency of the first stage of operation which involves input. Con stituency approach is the other

English Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

English - Coursework Example view is able to lend a certain degree of integrity to the story’s content because in a way, all the characters were given equal levels of attention. This is quite important because the story emphasizes the different struggles that each character went through and the third-person omniscient point of view is able to provide the reader with the opportunity to pick his or her own side. The short story that I wish to analyze is Kate Chopin’s â€Å"The Story of an Hour.† The overall theme of the story generally revolves around freedom, and, more specifically, women’s search for selfhood, for self-discovery or identity. This theme is aptly symbolized by the open window, out of which Mrs. Mallard could see patches of blue sky, the tops of trees that were signaling a new spring life, and the many other wonderful things outside of her window. All of these things represented a â€Å"new life† for Mrs. Mallard who has been under the clutches of her husband for a very long time. While Mrs. Mallard was stricken with grief at the initial news of her husband’s death, she was able to look at the situation at a whole new light upon looking out the window. Thus, the open window that presented a view into an entirely new life without her husband’s repression represented Mrs. Mallard’s supposedly new lease at life. The difference between a poem and a short story is that a poem is more imaginative, as it is driven with words that create more spontaneous, intuitive responses, while a short story oftentimes depends on descriptive language and logical structure. In addition, a poem adheres to rhythm while a short story can be a static flow of words. For example, the following lines from Alexander Pope’s â€Å"An Essay on Criticism† is very rich in imaginative, metaphoric, rhythmic language while the lines from â€Å"A Father’s Story† by Andre Dubus are very literal and static. Hearing the poem â€Å"We Real Cool† recited aloud by the author herself, Gwendolyn Brooks, provided

Qualitative Study on COPD Essay Example for Free

Qualitative Study on COPD Essay This is a qualitative study conducted at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler as a randomized controlled trial to determine the effectiveness of a lifestyle behavioral intervention to increase physical activity among patients with moderate to severe COPD. (Wortz, K. 2012) 54 patients of age 45 or older were randomly selected from April 2010 through January 2011 using a patient registry database with a coded diagnosis of COPD along with physician referrals. Data collection consisted of: baseline, demographic, clinical and self-management needs, smoking status, spirometry, 6-min walk distance, BMI, Obstruction, SOB, Exercise Capacity (BODE) index, Chronic Respiratory Questionnaire (CRQ); which includes 10 open ended questions and Geriatric Depression Scale. A sample of 47 interviews with the mean age of 68.4 years old, 53% male, 87% white were used in the analysis. 57.5% has moderate COPD, 31.9% sever COPD, and 10.6% very severe COPD. (Wortz, K. 2012) The results of this analysis suggest that the content of self-management support with COPD should focus on addressing patients’ fears associated with the uncertainty, progression, suffering of their disease, expectations about overcoming or replacing losses, their needs for improved health literacy and their desire for improved care. Attention to these areas may enhance patient self-efficacy and motivation to improve self management.

Application of GIS Technology in Electrical Distribution

Application of GIS Technology in Electrical Distribution ABSTRACT Electric utilities have a need to keep a comprehensive and accurate inventory of their physical assets, both as a part of normal service provision (extending the network, undertaking maintenance, etc.) and as a part of their obligation to inform third parties about their facilities. Complexity of electrical distribution power system is a good reason for introducing new information technology GIS (Geographic Information System) that carries out complex power system analyses (e.g., fault analysis, optimization of networks, load forecasting) in acceptable amount of time. By using modern GIS, in conjunction with his own in-house developed software, in less time and more accurately, the utility engineer is able to design and to analyze electrical distribution network. This paper presents the idea of the project CADDiN © (Computer Aided Design of Distribution Network) currently under development at the Power Systems Department of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Zagr eb. INTRODUCTION Importance of Distribution Network in Energy Supply One of the primary contribution to the advancements and improvements in mans life-style over the years has been the ability to use and control energy. Mans use of energy can be seen in everyday operations such as mechanical motion and the production of heat and light. Large amounts of power are generated at power plants and sent to a network of high-voltage (400, 220 or 110 kV) transmission lines. These transmission lines supply power to medium voltage (e.g. 10 or 20 kV) distribution networks (distribution primary system), which supply power to still lower voltage (0.4 kV) distribution networks (distribution secondary system). Both distribution network lines supply power to customers directly. Thus, the total network is a complex grid of interconnected lines. This network has the function of transmitting power from the points of generation to the points of consumption. The distribution system is particularly important to an electrical utility for two reasons: its proximity to the ultimate customer and its high investment cost. The objective of distribution system planning is to ensure that the growing demand for electricity, with growing rates and high load densities, can be satisfied in an optimum way, mainly to achieve minimum of total cost of the distribution system expansion. Therefore, the distribution system planner partitions the total distribution system planning problem into a set of subproblems that can be handled by using available, usually heuristic methods and techniques [T.Gonen, 1986]. The design of electrical distribution networks is an everyday task for electric utility engineers, specially in RD department. Such design was carried out few years ago manually. This classical approach usually result in overdesign distribution system, which is now considered as a waste of capacity that can be used instead of investing in system expansion. Four years ago a PC program package (CADDiN ©) for optimal planning of distribution network was put in operation in Elektra Zagreb (Electric Utility of City of Zagreb). It is a result of joint RD of Power System Department of Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Elektra Zagreb. Based on the experience or PC-CADDiN ©, at the end or 1992. the prototype of new project CADDiN © was started conceptually organized as a part of the Geographic Information System. The role of GIS in Distribution Networks Database plays a central role in the operation of planning, where analysis programs form a part of the system supported by a database management system which stores, retrieves, and modifies various data on the distribution systems. The thing that distinguishes an electrical utility information system from an other information system such as those used in banking, stock control, or payroll systems is needed to record geographical information in the database. Electrical utility companies need two types of geographical information: details on the location of facilities, and information on the spatial interrelations between them. The integration of geographically referenced database, analytical tools and in-house developed software tools will allow the system to be designed more economically and to be operated much closer to its limits resulting in more efficient, low-cost power distribution systems. Additional benefits such as improved material management, inventory control, preventiv e maintenance and system performance can be accomplished in a systematic and cost-effective manner (Z.Sumic, et al, 1993). Before graphical workstations were developed, many electric utilities have built technical information systems based on relational database management systems (E.Jorum, et al, 1993.). Technical information system is designed to cover the requirements of power supply utilities considering network expansion and operation planning, maintenance management and system documentation. In advanced utilities all information systems are built around same RDBMS and constantly updated. Establishing links between these information systems and geographical information system is only in defining relationship between objects in the two systems. The problem that has risen is in a number of different information systems in the same utility (technical information system, customer information system, etc.) or even several overlapping technical information systems and some of these a re not updated. Objective The objective of the distribution network design process can be divided into three independent parts. These parts are: Load forecasting load growth of the geographical area served by substation; determination of load magnitude and its geographic location; customer load characteristics; Design of secondary system (low voltage distribution network) optimal substation allocation and transformer sizing; secondary circuitry routing and sizing; Design of primary system (medium voltage distribution network) optimal substation allocation; primary circuitry routing and sizing; To reduce a problem complexity each part of the design process is divided in functional subproblems. Each of these subproblems can be then much easier to manage. Although only independent some parts of design process interact, i.e. placement of substation will influence secondary routing which in turn will influence primary routing. The number of possible design solutions that might satisfy a given set of spatial, technical and economic constraints is quite numerous. Multiple, interdependent goals and constraints make conventional procedural optimization methods inappropriate for distribution network design. Due to the complexity of the design process, heuristic methods and AI techniques must be applied to find near optimal [S.Krajcar, 1988] or satisfying solutions [Z.Sumic, 1993]. The main reason for this simplification is regarding work-force and computer time for finding optimal solution that in high percentage could not be applicable in real situation. [End Page 1858] GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM OF PROJECT CADDIN Pilot-project CADDiN was started at the beginning of 1993 as a research project inside the main research project Research and Development of Electric Power System supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology of the Republic of Croatia. The development of optimization and design procedures of electric distribution network is a parallel process with building database by Cadastral Office of the City of Zagreb, and therefore some other available examples of basic map databases are used for research purposes (see Figure 1). The strategy employed emphasized only the data composed of basic map databases for technical applications (scales of 1:500 to 1:5000). There is no unique definition for Geographic Information System (GIS) but a commonly accepted one is that it is a system with computer hardware and software functions for the spatial data input, storage, analysis, and output [T. Bernhardsen 1992]. Many textbook definitions go further and identify analysis as the one activity which differentiates GIS from other computer-based systems for handling geographic data, such as automated cartography. Modern GIS, stores information on the geometry, attributes and topology of geographic features in one relational database management system. SYSTEM 9 used in the pilot-project CADDiN is a feature-oriented GIS which organizes geography-related information into a topology-structured, object-oriented, relational database system. A project is the highest level of data organization of GIS used in CADDiN [Computervision, 1992]. It represents the entire database that has been set up for a particular geographic area for example, a town, a municipality, or a service district. It comprises two components: a data store that contains all the geographic and attribute data relating to features; and a database definition that specifies the structure of the project through feature classes and themes. Theme definition determines which features and attributes are to be used and the ways in which are to be displayed. Independently stored geometry of a feature, and its graphic representation enables position and representational data to be changed without reference to each other. The link between the geometry and the representation is provided by the theme. It comprises a list of feature classes, feature class attributes, and a link to a separate list of graphic transforms. An important safety aspect of used GIS is that it does not allow users to make changes to the database at project level. A user may only query it. The database is created and updated by means of the next lower level of data structure: the partition. This is a copied, working subset, or portion of a project. It is at this level that a user interacts with the system to enter, edit, update and manipulate data. Partitions are extracted from a project based on the type of work to be done and the data that will be required to perform that work. When editing is completed, the partition is merged into the project database, effecting the update. Partitions are created by means of a partition definition that describes the spatial extent, the contents, and the representation. The system uses the partition definition to extract the required geometric and attribute data and then allocates them into the required partition. The merit of the partition structure is that it allows different department s within an organization to work safely on the data from the same project. All geometric features in the data model are built up from geometric primitives, referred to as nodes, lines, surfaces and spaghetti. A node is stored as a set of X, Y, and optionally Z coordinates in 3D database, and might be used to represent e.g. transformers, switchgears, MV LV buses, etc. A line primitive is a geometric element defined by two end-nodes (allowing intermediate points), and might be used to describe transmission lines, cables, etc. A surface consists of one or more line segments that together form a closed polygon. A forest, lakes, parks, a portion of network, or area covered by a lot of buildings could be described by this kind of polygon. Spaghetti enables to model features where no topological structure is required. Nodes are the only geometric primitives that have coordinate information directly associated with them. Lines are not defined in terms of geographic coordinates, but by pointers to their topological nodes. Surfaces are defined by pointers to the lin es surrounding the surface. All these pointers are created and maintained automatically. Geographic objects are stored as collections of nodes, lines, surfaces or spaghetti, but they can be referred to as geometric primitives as well as some group of objects which can be identified and named in the real world roads. cables, transformers, buildings, and so on. These categories are represented by `feature classes, and the individual instances of geographic objects as `features. Such features at last consist of one or more geometric primitives. All features within a particular feature class will have the same topological structure, and the same set of attributes. Feature classes could be also identified as objects in groupings of related objects that may be established on the basis of location, spatial relationships or common attributes. These logical groupings of features are called complex features. They are defined as features that contain other features. All complex features of particular type, comprise a complex feature class. A useful application of complex feature classification would be in forming logical groupings such as MV bus, transformer, LV bus, protection devices into substation. Complex features can also have attributes associated with them (for example name, number). It would eliminate duplicating of feature attributes which properly relate to the substation. Definition of complex feature is not restricted to include only simple features as constituent components. For example, distribution network could be defined as a complex feature containing a number of substations, cables, which are themselves complex features. A strength of this approach is that it can be used to minimize the level of data redundancy of both attribute and geometric information. Users interact with the database via an object handler, and they are assisted in that interaction by a structured query language that incorporates extended spatial and reference operators. Behind analytical tools available inside GIS environment, a set of standalone functions is available from UNIX shell. This set of functions is called Application Tool Box (ATB). ATB offers an environment in which data can be managed directly, without first having to extract meaning from map representations of those data. Under this approach a user can develop analytical models according to specific requirements by integration of ATB functions, in-house developed software (C and FORTRAN programs) and shell programming. To speed up complex analysis by Development Libraries of ATB new processing functions of ATB could be developed. Applications of project CADDiN are developing by ATB functions in conjunction with C and Corn shell programs. ATB data management and viewing comprise processing functions, dataflow management and graphics viewing system. Processing functions perform the actual analysis operations on sets of data called data flows, each of which corresponds to a relational table in the database. All manipulation of data flows takes place in a special temporary work area called a clipboard. Processing functions involve the following operations: information management (i.e. selecting information from database and placing it into a dataflow, communicating with external software packages), attribute processing (i.e. generating values for attributes based on classification rules or formula), geometry processing (spatial functions union, adjacent, etc.) and arithmetic processing (i.e. calculating the area of surface entities, or length of linear entities). Dataflow management is used to create, display and delete data flows and views. Graphic viewing system allows user to see the intermediate or final results and generate a plot of those results. Compatible to ATB functions are standalone functions of Network Trace Analysis module. By those functions network tracing can be carried out using the information on network connectivity and component characteristics that are already stored in database. Special function is used for network generation that is stored as dataflow on the clipboard. On this dataflow several networks tracing functions can be performed (path optimization, range finding, path finding) or can be used by external software. As a result of that analysis a dataflow is produced on the clipboard. Original and resultant networks can be queried simultaneously. The user can keep or delete resulting data flow on the clipboard or retrieved in database. OPTIMIZATION OF DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS IN GIS Optimal Location of TS x/0.4 kV in Secondary Distribution Network The procedure for finding optimal configuration of secondary system consists of two possible optimization steps: optimization of new area secondary system and optimal connection of the particular customer(s) to existing secondary system. Regarding urbanistic plans, ecological and esthetic constraints as well as previous load growth analyses possible locations of substations are known in advance. These assumptions make planning of secondary system more simple because only routing process must be applied for several locations of substations and fixed locations of customers. The first step of routing process begins by connecting customer to the nearest routing corridor. After that procedure, the secondary system network is generated by network module. On this network any path analysis is applied and as results of analysis there are all possible connections between substation and customers. These results are used as input for external, CADDiN module of optimization of radial structured networks. During this process of optimization the set of rules is used to satisfy standard practices employed by designers. The optimized network is then saved on clipboard in dataflow and can be graphically viewed. The cost for the secondary system is mainly the capital investment cost consisting of cable laying cost and cost of cables. For each location of substation optimization process must be repeated. Solution with minimal investment costs and satisfactory technical constraints is the best regarding secondary network. All solutions that are technically satisfied must be taken into account during the primary network optimization. It is necessary because the local optimum of secondary system does not imply the optimum of primary system, and global optimum of distribution network. The optimal connection of the particular customer to existing secondary system must fulfill next two technical as well as economical constraints: the shortest possible length of connection due to voltage drop that may be permitted; reserve in load capacity of substation due to customer load. The new customer must be connected to the nearest neighbor customer satisfying previously mentioned constraints. The few nearest customers are found in a buffer zone with new customer as a center of this zone. The shortest path between new customer and possible connection node is found in two steps: both nodes are connected to the nearest routing corridor, and after that by GIS network function find best path analysis shortest path between nodes is found. Optimal Structuring of Predefined Primary Distribution Network Configuration Due to the load characteristics, requested availability and quality of energy supply two main configurations of secondary system are used in optimal planning There is a ring structure (starting and ending node is the same HV/MV substation and routing nodes are MV/LV substations) and a link structure (starting node is one HV/MV substation routing nodes are MV/LV substations and ending node is other HV/MV substation). Regarding the usage of GIS technology the optimization procedure of these two network configurations is very similar. In optimization process three different problems are considered: optimization of the new primary system; reconfiguration of the existing primary system regarding predefined structure, and reinforcement of the existing primary system with defined structure by installing additional capacity in demand nodes or including the new MV/LV substation in the network. The first problem is similar to the problems in optimization of secondary system. There must be known all possible connections and distances between HV/LV substation (source node) and MV/LV substations (demand nodes) as well as themselves. Therefore, all network nodes must be connected to the nearest routing corridor. By any path analysis and heuristic algorithms (presently genetic algorithms are tested) initial solution or zero-iteration is generated. After that by the union of GIS network function find best path analysis and other heuristic methods optimal solution is found. The second problem is more complicated than the first one because existing connections in network must be considered in optimization procedure. Otherwise, same procedures are used as in the first problem. Example of this optimization procedure can be shown in the Figure 3. In the third problem, optimization procedure is similar to the procedure of adding the new customer to the second system. Slight differences are in a way of connecting new substation to the existing network. In the primary system, regarding the constraint of reliability of supply of energy to the customer, each MV/LV substation must have a possibility to be supplied from two sides. Therefore, the nearest existing cable between two substations must be found for the connection of the new station, or the nearest routing corridor by which the new station could be connected to the nearest substations that are found in a buffer zone around it. When a better type of connection is found, solution is tested on several technical constraints (voltage drop, cable and route load, investment costs, etc.). Load forecasting of TS x/0.4 kV Small area or spatial, forecasting is the prediction of both the amounts and locations of future electric load growth in a manner suitable for distribution planning which really means with geographic resolution adequate for planning a new distribution network or extensions to the existing one. The procedure is based on dividing a utility service area into a number of sufficiently small areas and projecting the future load in each one. This is usually accomplished by dividing a utility service area into either a grid of uniformly sized rectangular cells, or into equipment oriented areas corresponding to feeder or substation areas (H.L. Willis, 1983,1992). Methods for computerized small area load forecasting, regarding their data requirements and analysis methods, fall into three categories: trending multivariate (multivariable) simulation. Essentially these methods analyze past and present load growth to identify trends, patterns, or information about the process of load growth that is then used to project future load growth. Trending methods require minimal data (they work only with historical load data, usually annual peak load) and computer resources, and are relatively straightforward in use. Because of their simplicity and generally the lowest expenses, they were the most widely used techniques in the past. Multivariate methods require considerably more data (historical loads, geographic and demographic data on customers and usage) and much more extensive computer resources, but in return they generally provide more accurate forecasts. Simulation methods in addition to historical loads require extensive and comprehensive data that include land use type, geographic and demographic data on a small area basis, transportation and other diverse factors that may affect load growth. They also require considerable computer resources and work-force. On the other hand they offer advantages in accuracy and analysis of load growth under changing conditions. Because of their complexity and requirements simulation models have been beyond the scope of many electric utilities. So far one can see that the nature of small area forecasting requires heavy use of computerized analyses and manipulation of large quantity of data. With its possibilities GIS is an excellent mean for developing and applying simulation forecast models. Of course, there is no limitation to use GIS for trending methods, at least for some very fast qualitative review, or for short range (less than five years ahead) predictions. A service zone of a substation may be defined as a complex feature which comprises parcels, buildings on those parcels, electrical connections for every building or customer, existing interconnections between customers hookups and associated substation etc. Parcels, buildings and streets are modeled as polygons, and cadastral lot code is attached to them as one of the attributes. Statistical and census districts based on approximately equal number of inhabitants and cadastral districts are polygons, too. Second very important information is address, modeled as complex feature class comprising a street name and number. Polygonal analysis and polygon processing, which is possible in GIS, and address as a common link enables the planner to determine a substation service zone and calculate its area. Via features attributes all necessary customers data (annual electricity consumption, annual peak loads, type of customers, some special requests and interfering factors, etc.) are obtainable . In that way it is possible to track amounts and sort of energy used by individual customer, or substation service area or some other region. Upon these information load densities (kWh/m ²) or kWh sales per customer can be computed. Procedure with built-in clustering algorithm detects groups (classes, clusters) of customers with similar past energy consumption behavior. For distribution load forecasting K-means algorithm [Hartigan, 1986] is recommended, with a minimum of 6-year load history [H.L. Willis, 1983]. The K-means algorithm searches for a partition, that is, a set of clusters that minimizes the total difference between small areas and their assigned clusters (the error of the partition). It works by moving small areas from one cluster to another. The search ends when no such movements of small areas reduce the error value. CONCLUSION This paper presents the concept of the pilot project CADDiN for optimization of electric distribution networks based on GIS technology. The architecture of CADDiN consists of the heuristic methods implemented within GIS and procedural programs. In such a hybrid environment, the GIS principal task is to model real world, perform spatial analyses and ensure the high accuracy of optimization procedures. The first results obtained by the prototype database and developed procedures encourage that concepts and ideas established in this paper can be applied on the real problems that exist in the distribution system planning.

Carlos Ghosn At Nissan An Evaluation Management Essay

Carlos Ghosn At Nissan An Evaluation Management Essay In 1999 Renualt and Nissan formed an alliance, as both companies could benefit from each other. Renualt needed a partner that could enhance their global position and Nissan had been looking for a strategic partner because they needed financial support after their credit rating was announced to be lowered to junk status, mainly due to the Asian financial crisis. The alliance should also contribute to new management ideas for Nissan to turnaround their seven out of eight year deficit. Carlos Ghosn was the guy to help Nissan to do this. The challenges that Ghosn faced were among others resistance to change, Japanese culture and communication problems. Ghosn promised that if he hadnt changed the deficit to a profit within two years, he would step down from his job at Nissan. He managed to turnaround Nissan in just eighteen months. Evaluation of Carlos Ghosn approach The evaluation of Ghosn approach to the turnaround of Nissan is addressing the following aspects. At the end of the paper the actual evaluation will be stated. Resistance to change When strategic changes are going to be implemented in companies, resistance to change almost always appears, and Nissan were no exception. The resistance in Nissan occurred because the Japanese culture is bureaucratic and focuses on social harmony. But organizational culture also caused some resistance from the employees. With that said I dont think that the employees where that resistant. It sounds like the employees knew that the situation was serious, and they didnt want to lose their job. As stated later in the paper, the mindset of the employees change and that the changes happened very fast. Some of the main causes of resistance are unawareness of what and why things are changing and lack of communication from the leader to the employees (Ford 2009). The first thing Ghosn embrace is exactly those things, and thereby avoid resistance concerning those causes. Tina Nielsen Strategy Execution 48-hour exam 050684-1216 CM-J41 Oktober 29th 2010 Page | 4 Reasons for resistance Despite of the things Ghosn do to avoid resistance, there is some resistance from the employees. The causes for resistance are seen below: No guaranty of lifetime employment Promotion based on performance instead of seniority and education (Nennkou-Jyoretu philosophy) Ghosn encouraged risk-taking Matrix structure The changes for the employees were thus large, as their whole business mindset had to change. The causes are described in the following: Lifetime employment was security for the employees as they knew that they would never lose the job. The Japanese government would bail the company out if they were in financial trouble. This, though, werent the case for the major financial house, Yamaichi, which went bankrupt and not saved by the government just before Ghosn came to Japan (case: C551). This changed the employees mindset so they got a sense of urgency of getting Nissan to perform well again or else they could lose their job. A big resistance from the employees was the promotion of younger leaders over older, longer-serving employees. The Nennkou-Jyoretu philosophy did no longer exist, as Ghosn wanted to promote risk-taking and personal accountability and responsibility. This was done by introducing performance based incentive systems, which included cash incentives and stock options for achievements directly linked to successful operating profit and revenue (case:C553). The change of the promotion system would course some resistance from the employees that were up for a promotion, but didnt get it because of the new system. This could create a dis-motivating problem that Nissan has to consider and exterminate. The reason for changing the promotion system was to encourage risk taking. The Nemawashi philosophy destroyed the effectiveness of decision making in Nissan and other Japanese companies. These informal meeting before information meeting was Tina Nielsen Strategy Execution 48-hour exam 050684-1216 CM-J41 Oktober 29th 2010 Page | 5 held to protect the individual from making bad decisions, and in the previous promotion system, the only thing preventing the employee of a career advancement what failure and mistakes. This Ghosn changed as he wanted the employees to think, take responsibility and be accountable for what they did. Every report that the employees handed in had to be accurate and the employees was held accountable for what was stated in the report. Ghosn changed the organizational structure to a matrix structure. This meant that every employee will have two bosses; a functional and a regional. The often fatal weakness of this structure is the discussions among employees from different departments about resource allocation (KaplanNorton 2006), and thereby cause resistance to the change. It was not only the employees that were resistance to change. Business analysts and the media both criticized Ghosn for going against the Japanese culture by firing people that not met targets, this also let to a nickname: the foreigner (case: C552). The government responded to this change of business culture by offering subsidies and programs for the affected employees, probably because they saw the rational of not bailing companies out of their crisis, just because they didnt manage their company well. Organizational culture To turn Nissans deficit to a profit, the corporate culture had to change. The Japanese culture had a big impact on how the corporate culture was, but some of the problems at Nissan where not normally seen in other Japanese companies. On top of the problems Ghosn states (see case: C549), there are some other organizational problems. These problems were: Follow-up on decision was not effective Top management had created tunnel vision regarding market share instead of profit à   created unprofitable products Communication problems through the layers Tina Nielsen Strategy Execution 48-hour exam 050684-1216 CM-J41 Oktober 29th 2010 Page | 6 Top management did not follow up effectively on decisions, which made it difficult to know which decisions were successful and which were bad. The consequence is that Nissan doesnt learn of their mistakes and thereby cannot use the lesson learn from bad decision or the experience from good decisions to future decision making. Top management focused on market share instead of profit, which created unprofitable products as listed in the case: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ only four out of 43 models turned a profit. (Case: C546). The reason for this focus was the maintenance of company size and staff. This corporate problem stem from the long standing partnership between the government and major businesses to ensure lifelong employment. As there was no guaranty at being bail out by the government, Nissans strategic focus has to change to regard profit instead of market share. The communication problem at Nissan concerns no shared vision or strategy throughout the company. Staff doesnt know what the top management is doing and top management doesnt know what the other managers and employees are doing. This may lead to a company that doesnt move in the same direction as the employees dont know the direction they should work. This problem stems from the national culture problem that groups dont talk to each other, and only worry about how their own department is doing. What Ghosn did to enlist support To handle the above problems Ghosn made three principles that transcended all cultures in the firm. These were: 1. Transparency 2. Execution 95%, strategy 5% 3. Communication These principles were used to give employees structure and give guidance on what to keep in mind when managing the company in the future. Ghosn was surprised how fast the employees at every level adapted to the new management process. But he also saw the cultural problem as a challenge and he Tina Nielsen Strategy Execution 48-hour exam 050684-1216 CM-J41 Oktober 29th 2010 Page | 7 stated that it was important to respect the employees culture. This led to the following initiatives: The first thing Ghosn did was to ensure that the people that accompanied him from Renault had the same respect and attitude for Nissan and the Japanese culture as him. He initiated long discussions with several hundred managers in order to get an insight on the day-to-day operations. He turned the resistance into feedback and used the conversations with managers as a resource to find the optimal solutions (Ford 2009). After these discussions he developed a program which encouraged the employees at Nissan to contribute recommendations for the company. This replaced outside hiring and Ghosn hoped this induced motivation. This program called Cross-Functional-Teams (CFT) consisted of 10 members from different departments. The groups also contributed to better insight across the different departments, and moved away from the imploded relationships in the company (Krackhardt 2000). It also gave the employees a better insight of the company as a whole. The groups developed a new corporate culture from the best elements of the Japanese culture (case:C551). Working in these groups also helped the managers to think in new ways and share ideas across departments. Ghosn created a matrix structure so every employee had two bosses; this improved the transparency and communication between the departments and also the awareness of both functional and regional problems. Ghosn disciplined employees strongly for inaccurate and poor data; he wanted employees to take responsibility. This was to stimulate risk taking and personal accountability. Ghosn created a system of if you contribute there will be opportunity and reward (case: C553) These initiatives and the fact that Japanese respect leadership helped Ghosn to incorporate his new management process in the corporate culture. Tina Nielsen Strategy Execution 48-hour exam 050684-1216 CM-J41 Oktober 29th 2010 Page | 8 National culture The Japanese culture is very incorporated in every company in Japan as so in Nissan, and it is hard not to affect Ghosn. The national culture has challenged Ghosn both on the personnel side and the financial side. The following are listing some of the Japanese cultures impact on Nissan: The keiretsu philosophy à   tying up capital of $4 billion Cultural consensus of group harmony creates efficiency à   no awareness of what is going on outside own group (Imploded relationship; Krackhardt 2000) Finger pointing à   no one accepted responsibility. Blamed everyone but themselves. Acceptance rather that responsibility because culture protects career advancement Nemawashi à   informal meetings before information meetingsà   no individual to blame Hampered risk-taking and slowed decision making at all levels. Routine, details and concepts with no sense of urgency slowed decision making and created no risk taking As Ghosn states: The Japanese are so organized and know how to make the best of things. The respect leadership. (Case:C550) Ghosn had a very open mind when entering the job, for instance he didnt wanted to learn much about the Japan before he came, because he didnt wanted to get any preconceived ideas (case: C546). Ghosn had also worked at four different continents and spoke five different languages, which indicates that he has an open mind to cultural differences and that he is used to work in different cultures. You can say that Ghosn is multicultural. This helped Ghosn to reduce the difference between his culture and Nissans culture, and thereby didnt induce deep cultural differences. Tina Nielsen Strategy Execution 48-hour exam 050684-1216 CM-J41 Oktober 29th 2010 Page | 9 Culture as a helper or hindrance Culture was both a helper and a hindrance for Ghosn. The hindrance consisted of how deep Japanese culture where incorporated in Nissan, such as no responsibility, accountability and risk taking from employees and the keiretsu philosophy. The respect for leadership was a big helper for Ghosn, as the employees at every level where willing to change their mind and embrace new ideas. Ghosn himself was very surprised that the acceptance of change happened that quickly. The way Ghosn embraced the cultural difference was: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ by accepting and building on strengths of the different cultures, all employees, including Ghosn himself, would be given a chance to grow personally through the consideration of different perspectives. (case: C550). This way Ghosn made culture into an opportunity and not a hindrance for managing Nissan. Luck and timing One of the most powerful impacts on strategy execution is the capital market (BowerGilbert 2007). One of the reasons that Nissan needed help was the Asian financial crisis, where the devaluation of the yen/USD had a big impact on Nissans keiretsu investments. This meant that Nissan should find a new partner in the automobile industry to avoid a credit rating as junk. They also needed new capital and new ideas. The financial house, Yamaichi, went bankrupt at the same time Ghosn arrived to Japan, and where not helped by the government. This sent a message to Nissans employees that they should not be sure of having a job if Nissan proceed with their operations as usually. Ghosn also took advantage of the situation by using the Yamaichi example any time possible. Renault looked for a partner, as they wanted to exploit the Japanese and the North American market to enhance their global position. Another reason was to reduce their dependency of the European market. In May 1998 Renault merged with DaimlerCrysler, which led to a sense of urgency of finding a partner to compete more Tina Nielsen Strategy Execution 48-hour exam 050684-1216 CM-J41 Oktober 29th 2010 Page | 10 globally. If Renault didnt alliance with Nissan, Ghosn would never have been COO of Nissan. Another thing is that Ghosn came to Renault in 1996, if the alliance were made before that, Ghosn would not have been the leader of the changes. If the alliance were made in the beginning of his career at Renault it is not sure that Ghosn would have got the job. All these events have resulted in the success of Nissan turning their deficit to a profit. If these events where not happening at the same time, it is not certain that the success Ghosn experienced would have happened. I dont think than Ghosn could have had the same success a few years earlier, as the Yamaichi bankruptcy changed Nissans employees mindset referring to their job security. Renault would probably not have been looking for an alliance partner (and Ghosn would not have been in Nissan), if they hadnt got the need of a global position on the world market, which they urgently got in 1998 after the merger with DaimlerChrysler. The conclusion is that both luck and timing of many elements affects the success of changes. Evaluation My opinion of Carlos Ghosns approach to turning Nissan around is that it was the right way to do it. Ghosn knew that he had to respect the national culture, and he knew that he had to lead the employees being heard. The latter is often a reason why resistance occurs, because it is the employees that know the day-to-day operations and know what can be done (Ford 2009). A key initiative he imposes was the CFT, which should enforce communication and motivation: He (red.Ghosn) felt that if the employees could accomplish the revival by their own hands, the confidence in the company as a whole and motivation would again flourish. (Case:C550) Tina Nielsen Strategy Execution 48-hour exam 050684-1216 CM-J41 Oktober 29th 2010 Page | 11 This was very clever as the CFT accepted the firing of the 21,000 employees. This was accepted of the employees because if the CFT agreed on that, then it must be right, or else they wouldnt have fired people. If it was Ghosn alone that made the decision, employees may not have been accepting that as fast, and resistance would have appeared. The way Ghosn approached the Japanese culture were with humility and respect, this was necessary in a country where culture is as important as in Japan. Literature Ford, J. D. and Ford, L. W. (2009). Decoding resistance to change. Harvard Business Review, 87(4), 99-103 Kaplan, R. S. and Norton, D. P.(2006).How to implement a new strategy without disrupting your organization. Harvard Business Review, 84(3), 100-109 Krackhardt, D. and Hanson, J. R.(1993).Informal networks: the company behind the chart. Harvard Business Review, July/August, 104-111 Bower, J. L. and Gilbert, C. G. (2007). How managers everyday decisions create or destroy your companys strategy.Harvard Business Review, 85(2), 72-79

The Importance of Setting in Developing a Theme for Wuthering Heights b

When Emily Bronte wrote Wuthering Heights England was going through a time of great change. It?s past agrarian society was changing and the common man was able to obtain wealth. Setting helps us to further understand the conflict between the natural world and cultured humanity, through the two main houses in text, and the social situation on the English Moors. Wuthering Heights uses this time of social unrest to develop the theme of the natural world in conflict with cultured humanity. An example of the natural world is the house, Wuthering Heights which the text is named after. It is a place of violent emotion inside, and violent weather outside. The narrator, Lockwood describes it through the medium of his diary ?pure bracing ventilation they must have up there.? It is located up on the Yorkshire Moors and away from society, its isolation from the cultured world aides the violence and mistreatment that occurs to its inhabitants. To the reader, the Heights and its inhabitants show the dangers and severe turbulence of the natural world. The Moors, where the Heights is situated shows us the danger and unpredictability of nature. The narrator, Lockwood is caught in a storm ?sky and hills mingled in one bitter whirl of wind and suffocating snow? at the start of the novel and the setting of the moors has a big impact on the story from there hereafter it is a place ?where human beings, like the trees, grow gnarled and dwarfed and distorted by the inclement climate. ? In contrast with the Heights, is the house at Thrushcross Grange which represents cultured humanity. The house is typical of the time, however to Catherine and Heathcliff (from the Heights) the inhabitants seem silly, petted and spoiled. It is described as ?... ...in the novel behaves as though he has seen her ghost himself. When Heathcliff dies, he is found in the bedroom with the window open, raising the possibility that Catherine's ghost entered Wuthering Heights just as Lockwood saw in his dream. At the end of the novel, Nelly Dean reports that various superstitious locals have claimed to see Catherine and Heathcliff's ghosts roaming the moors. Lockwood, however, discounts the idea of "unquiet slumbers for those sleepers in that quiet earth." The reader is also given the impression of the natural worlds ?quiet earth? no longer struggling against the civilised world. Setting helped to develope the theme of nature in conflict with civilisation in the novel Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte. We are shown both civilisation and nature through setting and the context of the novel helps us to further understand the conflict.

Its Time for States to Secede from the Union :: Politics Political Essays

It's Time for States to Secede from the Union There is clear evidence that Congress, the White House, as well as the Courts, have vastly exceeded powers delegated to them by our Constitution. To have an appreciation for the magnitude of the usurpation, one need only read Federalist Paper 45, where James Madison the acknowledged father of our Constitution explained, "The powers delegated by the proposed Constitution to the Federal Government, are few and defined. Those which are to remain in the State Governments are numerous and indefinite. The former will be exercised principally on external objects, as war, peace, negotiation, and foreign commerce; with which last the power of taxation will for the most part be connected. The powers reserved to the several States will extend to all the objects, which, in the ordinary course of affairs, concern the lives, liberties and properties of the people; and the internal order, improvement, and prosperity of the State." Short of some kind of cataclysmic event liberties lost are seldom regained but there is an outside chance to regain them if enough liberty-minded Americans were to pursue Free State Project's proposal to set up New Hampshire as a free state. Free State Project (www.freestateproject.org) intends to get 20,000 or so Americans to become residents of New Hampshire. Through a peaceful political process they hope to assume leadership in the state's legislature and executive offices and reduce burdensome taxation and regulation, reform state and local law, end federal mandates that violate the Ninth and Tenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution and restore constitutional federalism as envisioned by the nation's Founders. Since there is only a remote possibility of successful negotiation with Congress, the Courts and White House to obey the U.S. Constitution, it is my guess that liberty could only realized by a unilateral declaration of independence - namely, part company - in a word secede. While our Constitution is silent about secession, there is clear evidence that our Founders saw it as an option. On March 2, 1861, after seven states had seceded and two days before Abraham Lincoln's inauguration, Senator James R. Doolittle (WI) proposed a constitutional amendment that said, "No State or any part thereof, heretofore admitted or hereafter admitted into the Union, shall have the power to withdraw from the jurisdiction of the United States." Several months earlier Representatives Daniel E. Sickles (NY), Thomas B. Florence (PA) and Otis S.

Literary Analysis of Feminism Seen in Antigone and A Doll’s House Essay

Susan B. Anthony once said, â€Å"The true republic: men, their rights and nothing more; women, their rights and nothing less.† In the plays Antigone, by Sophocles, and A Doll’s House, by Henrik Ibsen, strong women overcome restrictions and limitations placed upon them by their society and gender. In Antigone, Antigone chooses to defy Creon, her ruler, uncle, and a male authority figure, to support what she believes is right, which is burying her brother and respecting the gods. Though it was forbidden for her brother to be buried because of Creon’s decree, she resists, and in doing so, feels empowered and discovers what a strong woman she truly is. Similarly, in A Doll’s House, Nora is hindered by how the society in which she lives views women and their capabilities. After saving her husband’s life and keeping the secret of a forgery that could potentially destroy her marriage, Nora discovers that her husband is not who she thinks he is when he tu rns on her as soon as his reputation is threatened. Through leaving her husband, Helmer, she aims to make a life for herself and become her own person rather than just her husband’s â€Å"doll.† Both of these women, Antigone and Nora, make choices that are unheard of for their time periods and that demonstrate the importance of equal relationships between women and men. Through Sophocles and Ibsen’s plays, women in modern times can understand how women are repressed and subservient to men in male-dominated societies. An understanding of the restrictions placed on women requires an analysis of the characters’ submission to men, the expectations placed upon them by society, and their search to find their inner voices through their struggles to be heard. The expectations placed on women by society ... ...ce, and become independent women, even if they go against society’s or their male ruler’s wishes. Sophocles and Ibsen alike portray strong women who defy society’s expectations, do not bend to the wills of men, and who discover themselves while fighting for their rights. The actions taken by Nora and Antigone are remarkable for the time periods in which they live, especially with patriarchal societies. By analyzing these plays, women can determine how to become independent and not always conform to society’s expectations, just as Nora and Antigone do. Relationships between men and women are changing, through time, to become more equal and accepting of strong-willed women. Women worldwide are slowly shrugging off the chains of restrictions placed upon them by the males in their lives and are growing confident enough in themselves to make changes for the better.

Historical Research Essay

Soccer is regarded as the most popular sport in today’s world and has been estimated to be played by more than 40 million people. Considering such high popularity, the epidemiology of soccer injury is needed to be historically researched in an extensive way. In numerous European nations, physical injuries received from this game take around 40% of total sports related trauma ( Hawkins, Hulse, Wilkinson, Hodson, & Gibson, 2001). Using the non-parametric statistics, historical research must be conducted by recording the intense injuries and the symptoms in professional soccer players by studying the frequency of occurrence and injury rate during sports and practices. MATERIALS AND METHOD Professional soccer players of any team, while playing in their league, has to be studied on daily basis for past few years when they are engaged in their preseason time July to August and game season September to May . Other important data that is also required may include the age, experience statistical distribution and anthropometric attributes of each player. During the game activities in past years, the record of personal consultations may also be available where players registered any injury received in ongoing games or practices that resulted in missing the upcoming game or practice session. The external risk elements, the active causes, the attributes, the anatomical points, and the event, whether it is practice session or actual game, of the muscular or skeletal traumas will provide crucial statistics. Any physical incident occurred during actual game or practice session that keeps a player to continue his game or practice session is called as injury. Injuries are categorized into three grades depending upon their severity: Minor injury: It keeps the player absent from games or practices for not more than one week. Moderate injury: It keeps the player absent from game or practices for one week to one month Major injury: It keeps player absent from game or practices for more than one month. In many previous studies, the same categorization has been done ( Hawkins, Hulse, Wilkinson, Hodson & Gibson, 2001). Injury rate is measured as injuries occurred in each thousand hours of playing; this involves both practicing and actual game Note that in historical research it would be recommended to exclude the goalkeepers as various similar research studies showed they incur different rates of injuries. RESULTS By recording a total of 100 injuries we can discover the percentage of injuries occurred during the actual game and during practice sessions. The intensity of injuries that results in absence from the game or practice can also be measured. The findings will show the rate of mild injuries, moderate injuries and major injuries as well. The anatomic point and the kind of injuries must be a focus in historical research. Studied cases may involve injuries on Spine, thorax, back, lumbar spine, Pelvis, femur, knee, tibia, ankle, foot, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand injuries. Previous studies had showed that in lower extremity injuries, the knees and ankles are the most injured joints of the soccer players ( Hawkins, Hulse, Wilkinson, Hodson & Gibson, 2001). Ankle injuries are reported to be occurred about 16 ­Ã‚ ­Ã¢â‚¬â€œ31 % of the all, whereas knee injuries are almost 14–34%. There is a dramatic need of more historical research within the ankle and knee injuries to investigate percentages in youth and adult players having mixed skill levels ( Peterson, Junge, Chomiak, Graf-Baumann & Dvorak, 2000).

Ib Psychology Essay; Bloa Ethics

Discuss ethical considerations related to research studies at the biological level of analysis. As with any aspect of Psychology that uses research studies, studies in the Biological Level of Analysis require the researcher to follow main ethical guidelines. While all the guidelines should be followed and respected, there are quite a few of which should be taken into extra careful consideration, although so is not always the case. To keep the research in ethical bounds, most psychologists agree to follow a certain code of ethics in order to abstain from inhumane experiments and studies.Deception, debriefing, and exploitation of animals in the use of invasive techniques, all come into play as significant considerations at this level. Sometimes, however, it is not possible for researchers to always follow that code as it may affect their studies' results. For example in a Schachter and Singer (1962) experimental study –intending to challenge several theories of emotion- voluntee rs were recruited to receive a vitamin injection and informed that they would be participating in vision experiments.In reality, three groups received an injection of adrenaline, and those of a fourth were given placebo injections. Even worse, one of the groups was not told about even a single possible side effect. Despite a safe amount of adrenalin, fully informed consent could not be obtained since it could influence and alter the overall results, attributing to in fact a characteristic placebo effect. This gives researchers justification of their use of deception in an attempt to keep their work valid and controversy-free.Researchers use placebos during studies to help them understand the effectiveness of a new drug or some other treatment on a certain condition. A placebo is a seemingly legitament medical treatment that is in fact fake and has no physical affect whatsoever on an individual; a response to which can be positive or negative. The relationship between the mind and bo dy has been the focus of research on the placebo effect.One of its most common theories is that the effect is due to the individual's expectations: anticipating a particular outcome from, for example, a pill can actually lead to the body's own chemical makeup carrying that out to some extent if not exactly. The third principle of the biological level of analysis states that animal research may inform our understanding of behavior; suggesting that we share a common ancestor, we can therefore make human inferences based on that. There is significant controversy concerning the use of animals in such acts nd the understanding of its advantages and namely disadvantages. And so, another group of studies to consider in terms of ethical issues is research involving animals. It is an obvious solution to quite a number of researchers' problems to simply harm animals rather than resort to humans. However, it is widely believed that all animal research is unethical primarily due to the lack of ability to obtain informed consent on behalf of the animals. In addition to this, it is not possible for researchers to predict the amount of harm or pain that the animal will undergo – if any.In specific, numerous experiments comprising of animals to study brain correlations have been conducted. Hetherington and Ranson were in charge of such an experimental study, in 1942, in testing the function of the hypothalamus. Upon the lessoning of the hypothalamus, the rats' appetites were distorted which resulted in a doubling of their weight. From this, researchers concluded the belief that the hypothalamus is indeed responsible for the regulation of appetite or hunger. The damage done however was not reversible in any sense.This again is a question of ethics. Thus, there is a range of ethical issues that researchers working at The Biological Level of Analysis must have in mind at all times, ready to look through rather than looking past. Never-ending debates present for almost eve ry topic, study, or discovery, may never really seize to exist. Nonetheless, this just emphasizes the need for extra effort to be put in†¦ People define ethics in the way that personally suits them, and this in its own way is a perfect example of lack of ethics, as well as decorum. Ib Psychology Essay; Bloa Ethics Discuss ethical considerations related to research studies at the biological level of analysis. As with any aspect of Psychology that uses research studies, studies in the Biological Level of Analysis require the researcher to follow main ethical guidelines. While all the guidelines should be followed and respected, there are quite a few of which should be taken into extra careful consideration, although so is not always the case. To keep the research in ethical bounds, most psychologists agree to follow a certain code of ethics in order to abstain from inhumane experiments and studies.Deception, debriefing, and exploitation of animals in the use of invasive techniques, all come into play as significant considerations at this level. Sometimes, however, it is not possible for researchers to always follow that code as it may affect their studies' results. For example in a Schachter and Singer (1962) experimental study –intending to challenge several theories of emotion- voluntee rs were recruited to receive a vitamin injection and informed that they would be participating in vision experiments.In reality, three groups received an injection of adrenaline, and those of a fourth were given placebo injections. Even worse, one of the groups was not told about even a single possible side effect. Despite a safe amount of adrenalin, fully informed consent could not be obtained since it could influence and alter the overall results, attributing to in fact a characteristic placebo effect. This gives researchers justification of their use of deception in an attempt to keep their work valid and controversy-free.Researchers use placebos during studies to help them understand the effectiveness of a new drug or some other treatment on a certain condition. A placebo is a seemingly legitament medical treatment that is in fact fake and has no physical affect whatsoever on an individual; a response to which can be positive or negative. The relationship between the mind and bo dy has been the focus of research on the placebo effect.One of its most common theories is that the effect is due to the individual's expectations: anticipating a particular outcome from, for example, a pill can actually lead to the body's own chemical makeup carrying that out to some extent if not exactly. The third principle of the biological level of analysis states that animal research may inform our understanding of behavior; suggesting that we share a common ancestor, we can therefore make human inferences based on that. There is significant controversy concerning the use of animals in such acts nd the understanding of its advantages and namely disadvantages. And so, another group of studies to consider in terms of ethical issues is research involving animals. It is an obvious solution to quite a number of researchers' problems to simply harm animals rather than resort to humans. However, it is widely believed that all animal research is unethical primarily due to the lack of ability to obtain informed consent on behalf of the animals. In addition to this, it is not possible for researchers to predict the amount of harm or pain that the animal will undergo – if any.In specific, numerous experiments comprising of animals to study brain correlations have been conducted. Hetherington and Ranson were in charge of such an experimental study, in 1942, in testing the function of the hypothalamus. Upon the lessoning of the hypothalamus, the rats' appetites were distorted which resulted in a doubling of their weight. From this, researchers concluded the belief that the hypothalamus is indeed responsible for the regulation of appetite or hunger. The damage done however was not reversible in any sense.This again is a question of ethics. Thus, there is a range of ethical issues that researchers working at The Biological Level of Analysis must have in mind at all times, ready to look through rather than looking past. Never-ending debates present for almost eve ry topic, study, or discovery, may never really seize to exist. Nonetheless, this just emphasizes the need for extra effort to be put in†¦ People define ethics in the way that personally suits them, and this in its own way is a perfect example of lack of ethics, as well as decorum.

Modern Means of Communication Have Introduced Relevant Changes in Our Lives

As humans have a highly developed brain, new innovations in communication are created to make our living standards better. However, there has been a debate on whether such changes benefit our lives more than worsening them. In this essay, I will point out both side of view and state what I think. In this modern world, telephones are no longer the only device used to communicate with other people. For example, using new software applications like skype, is undoubtedly one of the popular ways for communication.In this way, we can surf the net and chat with our friends at the same time. Time can be more well-spent and furthermore, extra phone bills can be saved as well. Another advantage for communicating via electronic devices is convenience. For those who cannot bother going outdoors to meet up with someone, such modern technology can certainly solve their dilemma. On the contrary, others suggest that such trend of communication can make people’s social skills degenerate.As tim e passes, people tend to forget how to talk to each other naturally when it comes to the necessity of face-to-face communication. In addition, such phenomenon can increase the popularity of laziness in one’s habit. To sum up, I would admit the fact that modern means of communication can add unexpected good points to our social lives. Thus, the downsides cannot be ignored. It would be better if we remind ourselves to go out with others once in a while to regain the confidence we used to have in our social lives. Modern Means of Communication Have Introduced Relevant Changes in Our Lives As humans have a highly developed brain, new innovations in communication are created to make our living standards better. However, there has been a debate on whether such changes benefit our lives more than worsening them. In this essay, I will point out both side of view and state what I think. In this modern world, telephones are no longer the only device used to communicate with other people. For example, using new software applications like skype, is undoubtedly one of the popular ways for communication.In this way, we can surf the net and chat with our friends at the same time. Time can be more well-spent and furthermore, extra phone bills can be saved as well. Another advantage for communicating via electronic devices is convenience. For those who cannot bother going outdoors to meet up with someone, such modern technology can certainly solve their dilemma. On the contrary, others suggest that such trend of communication can make people’s social skills degenerate.As tim e passes, people tend to forget how to talk to each other naturally when it comes to the necessity of face-to-face communication. In addition, such phenomenon can increase the popularity of laziness in one’s habit. To sum up, I would admit the fact that modern means of communication can add unexpected good points to our social lives. Thus, the downsides cannot be ignored. It would be better if we remind ourselves to go out with others once in a while to regain the confidence we used to have in our social lives.

Inspiration for Inquiry Essay

The school that is subject for evaluation in this paper is a charter school in Michigan, a publicly funded school, which means, the students are not allowed to pay any charges beyond the funds allocated to the school.   The state and the local district is the one that provides for the operation.   Since the school is instituted to meet the greater demand for education, this school is non-sectarian and non-discriminatory. It accepts all types of students regardless of religion or race.   In the same way, religious or cultural beliefs are not prohibited here.   The obvious problem in this school is that, students are selected by lottery to avoid any biases in the assortment since the school cannot accommodate students beyond their limit.   The school is serving an economically disadvantaged and racially diverse population.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Being a relatively small public school, this school receives monetary support and services from both the state and local government lower than conventional public schools.   As a result of conducted test, assessment of students’ outcomes is generally low.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The staff of the school particularly the principal is less experienced and has less management credentials.   Teachers here on the other hand, are very efficient for they have active participation especially in informal professional development such as mentoring and shadowing.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   However, despite good performances, the school experience insufficiencies especially if we will consider its long-term success. Although the school has given autonomy yet, it is bounded in such a way that parents have direct involvement in them.   Likewise, teachers are found less motivated after three years of teaching for seeing that school mission is not met by the school. Teaching staff comprises about fifty percent of the total staff, about forty percent of these teachers are in twenties, while the females are in seventy percent.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Teachers are notably satisfied with the school facilities but not in their salaries. Aside from that, only few teachers are enrolled in the retirement program of the state.   Their expectations before they were hired were higher than what they experience.   The reason according to authorities, the school receive minimal budget from the local government.   In effect, most of these teachers after gaining enough experience would move to other school.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Teachers are highly receptive for change, and that is why they expect for change from both the board of directors and the parents.   At least sufficient intervention from the local government and parents are needed to mend these needs.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In view of organizational climate, parents participate less in the direction of the school.   The less experienced principal cannot do something about the problem.   The teachers behave in such a way that maintains what actually exists with mind to get out once the needed employment experience has been satisfied.   They all work for the accomplishment of set goals without great desire for a much higher academic achievements. Teachers are performing quite well for a limited sources and privileges that affect generally the instruction.   People are seemingly individualistic aiming to sustain the daily challenges having no definite direction ahead of them since no regular monitoring for corrective measures are prearranged.   Likewise, students are less challenged and grades are relatively low. Inquiry Statement   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The problems manifested in this paper require a considerable attention from proper authorities particularly the principal.   Specific issues that sought deliberation are formulated for key areas of concern. How could the school generate enough funding for their annual expenditures? Funding is seen as the number one problem; this is the reason why the school cannot create programs for the development of the curriculum and facilities that hinders cooperative values among them. How the school could produce technical supports needed to meet academic requirement? Other concerns that may not be covered by the budget can be produced through technical supports.   If needs are met, the culture of cooperation among the staff can be developed. What are the necessary steps to improve the quality of instruction in the classroom? It aims to improve not only the quality of education but also the credibility of the teachers.   The value of competitiveness must be developed among the teachers and staff. What necessary steps are needed to promote professional growth of the teachers? Professional growth of teachers is significant to maintain teachers’ retention.   This can be achieved by giving trainings to teachers and by upgrading their salaries.   This will help develop commitment among the teachers. What standardized evaluation is to formulate to measure the school performance? Regular evaluation of teachers’ performance, students’ scholastic achievement, and school performance as well, will ensure growth of the school.   Once the school has clearly established goals, teachers would be challenged to participate in the achievement of goals. What policies are to integrate that will develop in-depth structure of parents-teachers organization.   This aims to promote good partnership between parents and school for the improvement of the school. These inquiry statements are formulated in order to guide the leader in creating a culture that meets organizational objectives. Hypothesis               . The question that needs to be asked to determine whether our school faculty is receptive of change is whether they are willing to move their institution towards greater focus on student learning and success. I believe that in order for the institution to achieve its goal, the school system not only the faculty should promote a community environment that is receptive to change. Indeed the need for change in the operation of college and universities is becoming obvious. Change is now the much-loved term of organizational development.   Everyone must be willing to alter change that starts from the upper level of the organization.   However, if no one would be willing to open their eyes for greater impact in the community, no change will occur. In the same way, once the needs for improvement have been identified, a structured-plan must be implemented in such a way that results are interrelated that affects the organization as a whole. In effect, a different organizational culture will be formed.   These are the desirable values and norms that support one another toward the growth of each one; of course for the achievement of mission and vision of the school.   This time, the value of time, cooperation, participation, respect, commitment, and camaraderie begin to envelope the organization. Evidence from the Literature In the foreword of Christine Johnson’s McPhail (2005) book, she pointed out that,   Ã¢â‚¬Å"Projection done by the Bureau of Labor Statistic show a growing disparity between job requirements and employee skills. Higher education institution, including community colleges, needs to accept more responsibility for what our students learn† (p. vi).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Johnson asserts that most schools and community colleges are changing their instructional program and services, recruitment, hiring, training of faculty, and service delivery, almost daily. Johnson emphasized the reason behind these changes is to recapture the drive that founded the schools and community college movement, reinforced its multiple missions, and to find expression in the success of the learner. Thus in our school system, the need for change of our faculty has been recognized as an important catalyst of improving the institution towards the student greater learning and expression of success. Our faculty is receptive of this change in view of the need to address the growing disparity between job requirements and employee skills.   Marvin Wideen and Ivy Pye (1994) noted that teachers’ first concern about change in the institution is all about â€Å"teaching and learning activities† for improvement of student learning (p. 135). As the need for change is recognized as important in the development of the professional learning communities a leader therefore should build culture that will support the professional learning communities in practice by establishing a culture of intellectual discipline distinct from the professional standard of the institution. Armstrong, Thompson, and Brown (1997) emphasized that academic managers has the critical role to â€Å"encourage and support colleagues’ adaptation to change† (p. 98).   Some of the values that must be developed is intellectual discipline, which means an emphasis on professionalism in thinking, speaking, and in doing, in other words, making it a habit to be professional. Another way to build a culture that will support professional learning communities in practice is to develop a culture of caring and obliging community. In contrast with individualism and consumerism, this will help professionals to be more at ease and cheerful as they perform their work. It is quite a familiar idea that its not at all monetary issue that is important in the work place. Creating such cultures can establish positive values and attitudes that are important towards sustaining interpersonal relationship. Richard Barrett (2006) noted that harmonious interpersonal relationships is significant for the survival of the organization; hence, there should be â€Å"a sense of loyalty and belongingness among employees and a sense of caring and connection between the organization and its customers† (p. 29). In the same manner, cultural values in an organization play an important role in directing change.   Weiner and Ronch (2003) emphasized that â€Å"culture is constructed of values, beliefs, and assumptions about how the world works; values represent the organization’s ideas about what ought to be (p. 16).   He further stated that values rooted in the culture provide the foundation and guiding elements in the organization that drive people to follow. Findings   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In what ways, school culture can influence leadership?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Preeddy and Glatter stated, â€Å"Culture is the glue that holds everyone together† (p. 96).   Normally, cultural values influence leadership.   It is explained using a double-headed arrow.   The school leader is part of the school that influences it. Being a part of that culture, the leader uses leadership that caters to the need and values of the people.   In the same way, the kind of leadership affects or influences the culture of the organization.   It is a give and take response because a culture gradually changes as many people come in and participate.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Cultural values are possible using the idea that school culture can affect leadership.   Leadership must direct cultural change, and the kind of leadership that can move the culture to undergo change is penetrating the culture itself and identify weaker areas that need change.   Once the need is recognized, the group can be motivated to alter change for the better.   The school above is open for change if only the leader is open to initiate such change. Work Cited Armstrong, S., Thompson, G., & Brown, S. 1997. Facing Up to Radical Changes in Universities and Colleges.   UK: Routledge. Barrett, Richard. 2006. Building a Values-Driven Organization: A Whole System Approach to Cultural Transformation. UK: Elsevier Inc. McPhail, Christine. 2005. Establishing & Sustaining Learning-Centered Community Colleges.   USA: American Association of Community Colleges. Preedy, M. & Glatter, R. 2003. Strategic Leadership and Educational Improvement. London: Sage Publication Company. Weiner, A. & Ronch, J. 2003. Culture Change in Long-Term Care. USA: Haworth Press. Wideen, M. & Pye, I. 1994. The Struggle for Change: The Story of One School.   UK: Routledge.