Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Wright Brothers First Fatal Airplane Crash

Wright Brothers First Fatal Airplane Crash It had only been five years since Orville and Wilbur Wright made their famous flight at Kitty Hawk. By 1908, the Wright brothers were traveling across the United States and Europe in order to demonstrate their flying machine. Everything went well until that fateful day, September 17, 1908, which began with a cheering crowd of 2,000 and ended with pilot Orville Wright severely injured and passenger Lieutenant Thomas Selfridge dead. A Flight Exhibition Orville Wright had done this before. He had taken his first official passenger, Lt. Frank P. Lahm, into the air on September 10, 1908, at Fort Myer, Virginia. Two days later, Orville took another passenger, Major George O. Squier, up in the Flyer for nine minutes. These flights were part of an exhibition for the United States Army. The U.S. Army was considering purchasing the Wrights aircraft for a new military airplane. To get this contract, Orville had to prove that the airplane could successfully carry passengers. Though the first two trials had been successful, the third was to prove a catastrophe. Lift Off! Twenty-six-year-old Lieutenant Thomas E. Selfridge volunteered to be a passenger. A member of the Aerial Experiment Association (an organization headed by Alexander Graham Bell and in direct competition with the Wrights), Lt. Selfridge was also on the Army board that was assessing the Wrights Flyer at Fort Myers, Virginia. It was just after 5 p.m. on September 17, 1908, when Orville and Lt. Selfridge got into the airplane. Lt. Selfridge was the Wrights heaviest passenger thus far, weighing 175 pounds. Once the propellers were turned, Lt. Selfridge waved to the crowd. For this demonstration, approximately 2,000 people were present. The weights were dropped and the airplane was off. Out of Control The Flyer was up in the air. Orville was keeping it very simple and had successfully flown three laps over the parade ground at an altitude of approximately 150 feet. Then Orville heard light tapping. He turned and quickly looked behind him, but he didnt see anything wrong. Just to be safe, Orville thought he should turn off the engine and glide to the ground. But before Orville could shut off the engine, he heard two big thumps, which gave the machine a terrible shaking. The machine would not respond to the steering and lateral balancing levers, which produced a most peculiar feeling of helplessness. Something flew off the airplane. (It was later discovered to be a propeller.) Then the airplane suddenly veered right. Orville couldnt get the machine to respond. He shut off the engine. He kept trying to regain control of the airplane. . . . I continued to push the levers, when the machine suddenly turned to the left. I reversed the levers to stop the turning and to bring the wings on a level. Quick as a flash, the machine turned down in front and started straight for the ground. Throughout the flight, Lt. Selfridge had remained silent. A few times Lt. Selfridge had glanced at Orville to see Orvilles reaction to the situation. The airplane was about 75 feet in the air when it started a nose-dive to the ground. Lt. Selfridge let out a nearly inaudible Oh! Oh! The Crash Heading straight for the ground, Orville was not able to regain control. The Flyer hit the ground hard. The crowd was at first in silent shock. Then everyone ran over to the wreckage. The crash created a cloud of dust. Orville and Lt. Selfridge were both pinned in the wreckage. They were able to disentangle Orville first. He was bloody but conscious. It was harder to get Selfridge out. He too was bloody and had an injury to his head. Lt. Selfridge was unconscious. The two men were taken by stretcher to the nearby post hospital. Doctors operated on Lt. Selfridge, but at 8:10 p.m., Lt. Selfridge died from a fractured skull, without ever regaining consciousness. Orville suffered a broken left leg, several broken ribs, cuts on his head, and many bruises. Lt. Thomas Selfridge was buried with military honors at Arlington National Cemetery. He was the first man to die in an airplane. Orville Wright was released from the Army hospital on October 31. Though he would walk and fly again, Orville continued to suffer from fractures in his hip that had gone unnoticed at the time. Orville later determined that the crash was caused by a stress crack in the propeller. The Wrights soon redesigned the Flyer to eliminate the flaws that led to this accident. Sources Howard, Fred. Wilbur and Orville: A Biography of the Wright Brothers.  Alfred A. Knopf, 1987, New York.Prendergast, Curtis. The First Aviators. Time-Life Books, 1980, Alexandria, VA.Whitehouse, Arch. The Early Birds: The Wonders and Heroics of the First Decades of Flight. Doubleday Company, 1965, Garden City, NY.

Friday, November 22, 2019

Assassination Attempt on Franklin D. Roosevelt

Assassination Attempt on Franklin D. Roosevelt Statistically, being the president of the United States is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, since four have been assassinated (Abraham Lincoln, James Garfield, William McKinley, and John F. Kennedy). In addition to the presidents that have actually been killed while in office, there have been a myriad of unsuccessful attempts to kill U.S. presidents. One of these happened on February 15, 1933, when  Giuseppe Zangara tried to kill President-elect Franklin D. Roosevelt in Miami, Florida. The Assassination Attempt On February 15, 1933, just over two  weeks before Franklin D. Roosevelt was inaugurated as President of the United States, FDR arrived at the Bayfront Park in Miami, Florida around 9 p.m. to give a speech from the back seat of his light-blue Buick. Around 9:35 p.m., FDR finished his speech and had begun talking to some supporters who had gathered around his car when when five shots rang out. Giuseppe Joe Zangara, an Italian immigrant and unemployed bricklayer, had emptied his .32 caliber pistol at FDR. Shooting from about 25 feet away, Zangara was close enough kill FDR. However, since Zangara was only 51, he couldnt see FDR without climbing up on a wobbly chair in order to see over the crowd. Also, a woman named Lillian Cross, who stood near Zangara in the crowd, claimed to have hit Zangaras hand during the shooting. Whether it was because of bad aim, the wobbly chair, or Mrs. Crosss intervention, all five bullets missed FDR. The bullets, however, did hit bystanders. Four received minor injuries, while Chicagos Mayor Anton Cermak was mortally hit in the stomach. FDR Appears Brave During the whole ordeal, FDR appeared calm, brave, and decisive. While FDRs driver wanted to immediately rush the president-elect to safety, FDR ordered the car to stop and pick up the wounded. On their way to the hospital, FDR cradled Cermaks head on his shoulder, offering calming and comforting words which doctors later reported kept Cermak from going into shock. FDR spent several hours at the hospital, visiting each of the wounded. He came back the following day to check on the patients again. At a time when the United States desperately needed a strong leader, the untested president-elect proved himself strong and reliable in the face of crisis. Newspapers reported on both FDRs actions and demeanor, putting faith in FDR before he even stepped into the presidential office. Why Did Zangara Do It? Joe Zangara was caught immediately and taken into custody. In an interview with officials after the shooting, Zangara stated that he wanted to kill FDR because he blamed FDR and all rich people and capitalists for his chronic stomach pain. At first, a judge sentenced Zangara to 80 years in prison after Zangara pleaded guilty, saying, I kill capitalists because they kill me, stomach like drunk man. No point living. Give me electric chair.* However,  when Cermak died of his wounds on March 6, 1933 (19 days after the shooting and two days after FDRs inauguration), Zangara was charged with first-degree murder and sentenced to death. On March 20, 1933, Zangara strode to  the electric chair  unaided and then plunked himself down. His last words were Pusha da button! *Joe Zangara as quoted in Florence King, A Date Which Should Live in Irony,  The American Spectator  February 1999: 71-72.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Article Critique about information system Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Critique about information system - Article Example For a business entity to be successful, there are many elements that come into play. They range from political, economic, social and technological factors. LPL Financial is mostly concentrating on the latter while it has entirely neglected the other equally important elements that are classified as the macro environment. This is the wrong approach that it adopted. First of all, the company has too many advisers. 13500 advisers is a huge number for one business no matter how big it may be. The argument that may be brought forth is that the more advisers for a company the more it is likely to achieve its goals, because with many experts nothing can go wrong. However, what this business does not know is that a huge chunk of their revenue is used in servicing the salaries of these professionals. Expert advice does not come cheap and for a company that is in the process of expansion, this is a very bad move. Secondly, the company is also relying on 700 institutions’ opinions before it can make a decision. This is a clear contradiction because the business claims to be a leader in discovering new trends. Successful businesses do not rely on others, others rely on them. The business should concentrate on coming up with new inventions and the 700 institutions that it relies on will start relying on it. Being a slave for other institutions will result to bullying. Take for instance, several institutions decide to change from one line of product to another. LPL Financial will respond by restructuring its business to suit these institutions, but this is an expensive venture and may take a long time to recover the finances used. Lastly, the business has designated too much power to the employees. Allowing workers to come up with different inventions and thrive is not a bad thing, is it? The problem is the management does not come into the picture. What is their role in all these? Do they even have work? Allowing different

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

The US media and the middleeast Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The US media and the middleeast - Essay Example The period of enlightenment in Europe involved the ranking of society by evolutionary scale from civilization to barbarism, which contributed to a negativity surrounding the Middle East. The spread of colonization in the 19th century brought with it a further distinction of â€Å"others†, with the Middle East considered as such. A similar ideology evolved through the 20th century, with the US being increasingly involved in the Middle East expanse, and Israel in the post-1945 period. As Israel’s staunchest supporter, to preeminence in a region of competitive interests is difficult for Americans. The media took a leading role in redefining the political and cultural agenda of the US toward the region. This paper is a discussion of the United States media and the Middle East. Representation of the Middle East by the US Media Most media experts argue that the coverage of the Middle East by the US media is in the context of a primarily Western audience. Unless there is a red efinition of cultural discrepancies between the Middle East and the US, then a negative, stereotypical image will continue to be depicted in the media (Kamalipour 33). Diplomatic historians will approach the US foreign policy toward the region from a perspective privileging the interests of the US in the region. In this context, culture is left to play a subordinate role. News media can be viewed as the driving force behind both domestic and international political mobilization. Media creates a stereotypical representation of the region’s people and culture, slowly engendering a misunderstanding and intolerance in mainstream American culture (Kamalipour 34). This representation was exacerbated in the aftermath of 9/ 11 and the American invasion of Iraq. Media tends to construct the stereotypical Middle Easterner, rather than, illuminate the relationships between culture and the political process. Despite having contributed to the American economy for over two centuries, the n egative reputations preceding them, have delegated to second-rate citizens who cannot embrace the American dream and its secular nature. American media have picked up this and packaged it for American consumption. In this respect, the Middle East is represented within a binary oppositional framework where the region is classified as a tyrannical space (Kamalipour 34). Stuart Hall, who is a cultural critic, contends that these binary oppositions are crucial for the establishment of a difference for the facilitation of organizing perceptive systems. This classification system is further elaborated in order to maintain an oppositional relationship between the uncivilized and the uncivilized. Misrepresentation, in this context, then becomes an instrument for the advancement of political agenda. Throughout Western history, negative and stereotypical portrayals have been utilized to service imperial projects. Presently, there is evidence that the media tends to create a link between Weste rn ideologies in the Middle East and the domestic imagination. Representation is a phenomenon when dealing with differences in culture. In this context, it engages reactions, emotions and attitudes while seeking to influence the viewer’s opinion and questions. It also promotes the synthesis of a set of cultural values that respond to the viewer’s anxieties (Kamalipour 35). In this context, a Middle Easterner is defined

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Assignment Final Paper Topic Essay Example for Free

Assignment Final Paper Topic Essay This work contains GEN 499 Week 3 Assignment Final Paper Topic Thesis Statement and Annotated Bibliography Education General Education Annotated Bibliography Review the Final Research Paper instructions located within the Final Research Paper link. The Final Research Paper is due in Week Five. To help with the preparation of the paper, complete the following and submit it to your instructor for feedback. Topic : Refer to the Final Research Paper guidelines for your topic selection. Confirm your topic, and identify how this selection relates to your academic and professional pursuits. Review the feedback from your topic choice presented in the Week One discussion. How did your argument stand up to the examination of your peers? Thesis : Write a direct and concise thesis statement, which will become the point or perspective you will argue or prove in the Final Research Paper. Refer to the Ashford Online Writing Center for information on how to develop a solid thesis statement. APA Reference Page : For this paper, you will conduct research in peer-reviewed journals or other sources that are considered to have academic information. You will need a minimum of five professional scholarly sources, at least one of which is a multimedia source. For each source, you are responsible for summarizing the source and examining how it will support you in defending your argument. Keep in mind the Academic Research standards for all Ashford University Papers. Academic Research Academic research and papers must meet certain standards of quality recognized by the academic community. What constitutes quality, academic research? Primary sources, which are documents from the time period being discussed Secondary sources supported by research in primary sources Credible sources (experts in the area of study)   Relevant research (materials are p For downloading more course tutorials visit https://bitly.com/1rubFkT If you are returning to college with a kid or more, you might assume that on-campus living is not an option. This is not always true. Alot of colleges provide a place for children to live as well. Colleges and universities have accepted the fact that some students are older and already have families. Be sure to ask early about housing options for families, because it tends to fill up very fast. Education General Education Annotated Bibliography Review the Final Research Paper instructions located within the Final Research Paper link. The Final Research Paper is due in Week Five. To help with the preparation of the paper, complete the following and submit it to your instructor for feedback. Topic : Refer to the Final Research Paper guidelines for your topic selection. Confirm your topic, and identify how this selection relates to your academic and professional pursuits. Review the feedback from your topic choice presented in the Week One discussion. How did your argument stand up to the examination of your peers? Thesis : Write a direct and concise thesis statement, which will become the point or perspective you will argue or prove in the Final Research Paper. Refer to the Ashford Online Writing Center for information on how to develop a solid thesis statement. APA Reference Page : For this paper, you will conduct research in peer-reviewed journals or other sources that are considered to have academic information. You will need a minimum of five professional scholarly sources, at least one of which is a multimedia source. For each source, you are responsible for summarizing the source and examining how it will support you in defending your argument. Keep in mind the Academic Research standards for all Ashford University Papers. Academic Research Academic research and papers must meet certain standards of quality  recognized by the academic community. What constitutes quality, academic research? Primary sources, which are documents from the time period being discussed Secondary sources supported by research in primary sources Credible sources (experts in the area of study) Relevant research (materials are pertinent to the area of study) In graduate work, the use of peer-reviewed journal articles (journal articles reviewed by recognized experts in the relevant field of study) is required.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

The Panopticon Essay example -- Panopticon Papers

The Panopticon There have been , since the time of the Enlightenment, two distinct models for disciplinary institutions. Both of these models may be seen in the form of prisons. The contemporary ideal of the institutions derives its form from Bentham's Panopticon. In the period shortly following the age of Enlightenment, Bentham, an economist by trade, began to critically evaluate the disciplinary institutions of the day. Seeing that the model of the prison could be characterized as a form of discipline-blockade, he set out to improve the functionality of the prison as well as other institutions. Being an economist, Bentham saw that these institutions were not functionally productive. In describing the discipline blockade form Michel Foucault writes that it is, "turned inwards towards negative functions: arresting evil, breaking communications, suspending time."(209, Discipline and Punish) Now although this may seem befitting of criminal behavior, there is another disciplinary model which, when emp loyed, will achieve far greater results than that previously described. This new form is termed a, "discipline-mechanism" by Foucault.(209) This mechanism is not limited in practice to prisons, its widespread use can form a disciplinary society through its employment in the minute institutions of society. Its deployment will create a disciplinary society where power is not accumulated but is made functional and useful in maintaining societal discipline. However, before singing the praises of this new mechanism, it would be beneficial to analyze the pre-existing forms of discipline and how they lead to this new model. Also, it would not be wise to readily accept this panopticism without realizing the social ramifications of this n... ..., cause some uneasy feelings in those citizens in non-disciplinary spaces where they feel autonomous. The notion of being constantly surveilled and coerced begs the question: if humans are so subtly coerced, do we really have the freedom to defy that coercion? Where has that freedom gone? Panopticism is a very useful tool. However, when diffused into society's non-disciplinary spaces it may create tension and hostility. This is not to say that this tool should not be used but that it should possibly have boundaries and limitations. Society should not revert to the blockade to compensate, but should recognize the very subtle ways in which we are influenced in our decisions in order to make decisions which benefit our own interests and not those of the power structure. Works Cited: Foucault, Michel., Discipline and Punish, 1977. Random House, Inc., New York.

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Scientific Sessions

Name: Ornella Hayles ID Number: 816008392 Tutor: Sheldon Pilgrim Session: Tuesdays 2-3pm3700030000 Name: Ornella Hayles ID Number: 816008392 Tutor: Sheldon Pilgrim Session: Tuesdays 2-3pm44000341947525002514604000070000455003536315690006939915370000455003536315350003520440Sci, Med & TechReflective Journal3600028000Sci, Med & TechReflective JournalSession Date: 22/01/18 Session No: 1Session Title: Introduction to Science & TechnologyIn the first session, the lecturer did an introduction of Science & Technology and an overall view of the course outline. After the introduction, I got a perspective of what Science & Technology was. At first, I thought the course was going to be essentially, about science since it was mainly being mentioned, but I was wrong. The lecturer took her time to clearly distinguished between science and technology and its importance to society or the world in general. She ensured that we all understood what she was lecturing by engaging us to respond to her questions, it appeared that she really wanted us to understand what was being taught so she went over what she said twice, two different ways which I appreciated. It helped me a lot to understand and grasp the concepts effectively. The use of visual cues seemed to work well with the class as it captured our attention and made us receptive. Through research I've come to realise scientists all have different perceptions of the word science. â€Å"Science does not purvey absolute truth, science is a mechanism. It's a way of trying to improve your knowledge of nature, it's a system for testing your thoughts against the universe and seeing whether they match† Isaac Asimov 1988. Science is important because it can solve some of our problems such as global warming and world hunger. I believe that science is still evolving and there's trial and error with science which means we learn new information and we advance as humans but, it can all take years for such research or technology to be developed. â€Å"Technology can be thought of as the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes†. I've always considered technology and science to be separate now, through critical analysis I know that science and technology are closely associated with each other. Which means technology is a part of science, it has been in existence since the prehistoric human culture (stone age). In my opinion technology is everywhere although we might not realise it our note books are a form of technology whereby we use our knowledge to document for practical purposes like computers. Overall for my first time doing this course it was challenging but, I've come to appreciate science and technology more, subsequently I can't imagine having to sleep without a roof above my head or having to cook using sticks and rocks. Through this experience I've got a spark of curiosity that makes me more enthusiastic to know more about science and technology. Scientists have reached so far in the field of technology whereby people can afford to do scientific research and make scientific break throughs from their own houses. The society we all know and accustomed to would be non-existent if it wasn't for the advancement in technology. We're so dependent on science and technology without realising it. 23 MORE WORDS Session Date: 29/01/18 Session No: 2 Session Title: Scientific Methods & The Nature of ScienceFor the second session, the lecturer started class with a recap of science. â€Å"All of science is uncertain and subject to revision. The glory of science is to imagine more than we could prove† Freeman Dyson. To follow up with the course outline, she started the second topic. To my understanding science is like a puzzle, to see the full image you need to put the pieces together. This can be distinguished through the scientific process. â€Å"The scientific method is a series of steps followed by scientific investigators to answer specific questions about the natural world† Regina Bailey 2017. What surprised me the most about this process is the fifth step experimentation, which is the most important step in this process. This is so because it can cause major breakthroughs in the world of science or a reversal. Through science we can make technological advancements and end some of the world major problems. â€Å"Fields of engineering are closely related to applied science. Applied science is important for technology development† Wikipedia 2018. It is understood that through scientific knowledge scientists have been able to provide services for the wellbeing of humans. Through many experiments people have been saying technology is good because it helps people medically and physically, it connects us as human beings and gives us entertainment. On the plus side technology is causing us to become less social. With this experiment, it shows how technology is applicated through private and public knowledge orientation. â€Å"Scientific objectivity is a characteristic of scientific claims, methods and results. It expresses the idea that the claims, methods and results of science are not, or should not be influenced by particular perspective value commitments, community bias or personal interests, to name a few relevant factors. Objectivity is often considered as an ideal for scientific inquiry, as a good reason for valuing scientific knowledge, and as the basis of the authority of science in society† Stanford Encyclopedia of philosophy 2014. To my knowledge there are three methods that scientists use inductive approach, deductive approach and hypothetico -deductive approach. The inductive approach and deductive approach are opposite, where the inductive approach is based off fact then there's a conclusion whilst deductive approach is a valid type of reasoning. Induction starts with observation, then a pattern, tentative, hypothesis and finally a theory. â€Å"In induction inference, we go from the specific to the general. We make many observations, discern a pattern, make a generalisation, and infer an explanation or a theory† Wassertheil Smoller 2017. Deduction has four stages theory, hypothesis, observation and confirmation. â€Å"Deductive reasoning is a logical process in which a conclusion is based on the concordance of multiple premises that are generally assumed to be true† Tech Target. Lastly hypothetico- deductive method which is seen as the only true method. What I understand is that the only way to truly test this is through experimentation which you either accept or reject the hypothesis and finally have an example. This week's session journal was manageable enough for me. Session Date: 05/02/18 Session No: 3 Session Title: Scientific Methods, Theories and ModelsIn this week's session, the lecturer started with the scientific method, then followed with theories and lastly models. Science is empirical, which means that it is based on observation over theory or logic. In class, we briefly discussed the history of scientific methods. It is understood that Plato 429-347 BC did not believe in empiricism but reasoning. â€Å"All knowledge could be obtained through pure reasoning (inductive), no need to actually go out and measure anything,† Plato 427-347 BC. â€Å"Contributions have been more influential, particularly when it comes to science and logical reasoning (deductive)† Aristotle 384-322 BC. Aristotle believed in empiricism. Personally, I agree with both Plato and Aristotle, for me science can be based on observation and reasoning also through empiricism where there's a logical way to test such observations. A major point in this week's session was observation. Observation is knowledge or data we acquire through experimentation. An example of observation from what I understand is the writing up of labs (biology or chemistry) for labs you have to observe then write what you understand. Through my research in observation I came across this question which intrigued me â€Å"Is creative concentration contagious?† Lynda Barry 2011. This brings me into another key example in topic three. When a baby sees his mother drinking in a cup, he tries to do the same with his cup, he holds it up and tries to take a sip from his cup. The baby first observes, then experiments. There are two types of observations, qualitative observations which uses your senses to observe the results and quantitative observations are made with instruments such as ruler, cylinders and thermometers which are tangible. These results are measurable. They could be used together or separately to measure data. Quantitative observation only gives statistical analysis after all the data has been gathered. What I understand from scientific theory is that it's a repetition of a process of the natural to ensure the accuracy or legitimacy using a form of observation and experiment. An example of this would be no new evidence would show water is wet, or that you can see without your glasses. Experimentation is the process of performing a scientific procedure, especially in a laboratory, to determine something† Oxford dictionaries 2018. From the information, I gathered from the session so far is that observation and experimentation are relate and there are two types of observation. â€Å"A statement based on repeated experimental observations that describes some aspects of the universe is called a scientific law' Wikipedia 2017. A scientific law doesn't explain the why or what of this observed phenomenon. The explanation of this phenomenon is the scientific theory, this is why or how they are related. â€Å"In science, laws are a starting place† Peter Coppinger 2017. The description of such phenomenon is called a model. These models can be physical, conceptual or mathematical it is often used in scientific theories.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

The concept of self

Changing ideas, beliefs and values impacts an individual's self-schemas and ay lead to a changing of consumer behavior or the removal of behavioral constraints (Blakeley, 1996). Self-concept can be described as multi-faceted (Arnold, et al, 2004), and includes a collection of images, activities, goals, feelings, roles, traits and values. These play a part in different aspects of an individual's perception Of self. The Me-self (Mead, 191 3) can be considered the socialized aspect of the individual and represents a constructed self- image from learned behaviors, attitudes, and expectations of others and society.The Me-self has been developed by the knowledge of society and social interactions and is considered a phase of self that is in the past (Mead, 1913). The I-self however, plays the role of the active observer, the knower, or the information processor (Arnold, et al, 2004). The ‘l' therefore, can be considered the present and future phase of self and represents an individua l's identity based on the response to the â€Å"iv aspect (Mead, 1913). For example, the ‘I' understands how society says an individual should behave and socially interact and they align with the perceived set standards, and that notion becomes self.The ‘Me' and ‘l' have a didactic relationship, almost like system of checks and balances. In essence, the Me-self prevents an individual for example, from breaking the rules or boundaries of societal expectations, while the I-self allows the individual to still express creativity and individualism (Mead, 1913). The I-self and me-self further interlink and enables an individual to understand when to possibly push boundaries that govern social interactions (Mead, 1913).Charles Cooley's (1988) concept of the looking glass self, states that an individual's self grows out of social interactions. The view that an individual has of themselves comes from the interpolation of personal qualities and impressions of the perception s of others (Isakson, 2013). Cooley's (1988) concept on the looking glass self describes that how we see ourselves does not come from who we really are, but rather from how we perceive how others see us.This can influence the monitoring self of consumer where a high self-monitor individual may be more highly concerned about how they are perceived by others and may change their behavior to be viewed in a more positive manner rather than a low self-monitor individual, who may have stronger self beliefs and may tend o behavior more consistently (Arnold, et al, 2004). The extended self, as theorized by Russell Bell (1 988), comprises of external objects, in which the emotional attachment to those objects become perceived as being a part of ourselves.Our possessions are a major contributor and reflection of our identities and this construct of the extended self involves consumer behavior rather than buyer behavior (Bell, 1988). Marketers are interested in the concept of the extended self as consumers regard possessions as a part of themselves and this would enable understanding of consumer behavior and consumption patterns. The most direct form of evidence by Bell (1988) supporting his theory on the extended self is found in the nature of self-perceptions.Firstly, Bell (1988) found that the extended self was not limited to external objects and personal possessions, but also included persons, places as well as body parts and vital organs. This thinking is used especially when marketing goods with connotations of patriotism in most of the world. For example, the slogan used by the famous soft drink company L&P ‘ rural famous in New Zealand†, appeals to and makes potential nonusers highly involved if they consider New Zealand part of their extended selves (Watson, 2001).Bell (1988) further argues that perceived characteristics of an object may not always correspond with the perceived characteristics Of self. To demonstrate, he proposed that an individual c an consider an object like the Statue of Liberty to be a part of themselves, but not actually holding a self-concept composed of characteristics attributed to the statue. Marketers are interested in the concept of self because it is much more than just brand or brand image. Non-brand images, such as example a cigarette smoker or a person with a Ferreira can contribute strongly to self.Post-acquisition object bonding, which may happen after buying a dog can be identified by marketers as a possible strong influence to the sense of self (Bell, 1988). Marketers are interested in the role possessions play in influencing and shaping an individual. For example, after buying a dog, advertisements about dog food, which have never appealed to the individual before, now do. Marketers can play a persuasive role in stimulating need recognition to the individual brought about by their purchases.Besides intro over objects, control by objects, as Bell (1988) theorized may also contribute to an item being viewed as a part of self. We may impose our identities on objects but possessions may also impose their identities on us (Furry, 1978). The longer we possess or get possessed by the object, the more a part of self it becomes (Furry, 1978). Marketers use this knowledge of the extended self in the form of samples, test drive with cars, 10 day free trials with products.Understanding self-concept helps marketers realism that time spent with the product or object is time that an individual may feel more notionally attached to it and have a harder time parting from it. The concept of extended self is of high interest to marketers as the digital age is a relatively new phenomenon. In the digital world, there are a number of differences with concept of the extended self, mainly due to the destruction by the advancement of technology (Bell, 2013). This means that the numerous objects that were marketed to individuals can now be accessed and complied into one platform.Furthermore, it c reates different ways that individual interact with and project themselves onto others (Bell, 2013). However, Bell (2013) proposes that an individual may have a different online persona as compared to offline. A marketer's interest lies in the understanding of an individual's online sense of self, for example, a consumer purchasing from an online website to accurately interpret the individual's online attitudes and beliefs. Self-concept consists of two dynamic processes, interpersonal and interpersonal.Within the facets of self, these two processes play an influential role. The interpersonal process is an individual's cognitive processing, affect and motivation (Archer, Gurney and Moan, 2013). The interpersonal process makes up the I-self and has socially-developed self- knowledge involving goals, strengths, limitations and moods. This process interacts with the external interpersonal self, which includes social perception, choice of situation, interaction strategy and reaction to f eedback (Arnold, et al, 2004) and vice-versa.Marketers are interested in understanding interpersonal and interpersonal processes as individuals' perceptions are generally different from One other. This is due to an interpersonal self shaped around each individuals own personal experiences. Individuals act based on what dynamic self process they are feeling at that time (Arnold, et alarm 2004). Therefore, marketers would better understand their target market by having apt knowledge of these two processes. Possessions are not only considered a part of self, but also are important in the development of self (Bell, 1988).This contributes to the self-narrative of an individual which comprise of coherent stories and personal experiences that provide a sense of continuity in time and space (Arnold, et al, 2004). Marketers are Interested in the self-narrative of individuals as they can arrest goods to support this, for example, photos albums. Photo albums provide an individual with the mean s to document highlights of their lives which can be viewed at any time they so desire. These possessions seem to contribute to the maintenance of the self-concept and narrative as such objects act as reminders or conformers of our identities (McCracken, 1987).With age, an individual's boundary of self develops as it goes through multiple role transitions (Rosenberg-Walton 1984, p. 352). Transitions are of interest to marketers as an individual's self-concept is changeable and is especially yeoman during certain transitions (Arnold, et al, 2004). A consumer's role transitions are marked by changes in consumption patterns (Arnold, et al, 2004). For example, buying a home, graduating from University, or having a baby can be key role transitions in an individual's life. Role transitions can also be linked with a consumer's levels of self-esteem.The positivist of a person's attitude towards him/herself plays an influential role in their behavior and consumption choice (Arnold, et al, 20 04). Low self-esteem can be related to concerns over the looking glass self which in turn influence impulsive purchasing (Arnold, et al, 2004). Marketers can play a key role in increasing the level of involvement and marketing goods which reflect the individual's' self traits to support the transitions. Marketers can use the concept of the changeable self to add or strengthen beliefs in an individual.This can influence an interpersonal process that consumers go through, self- gifting. Self-gifting frequently carries messages about an individual's self- distinctiveness, for example, brand slogans which have the phrase ‘Like no other' (Arnold, et al, 2004). Individuals increasingly seek pleasure in objects hat they buy for themselves as gifts (Kara, 2008). This may be attributed to a positive feeling of accomplishment (Kara, 2008) and consumers may appeal to brand slogans with the phrases ‘reward yourself or ‘you deserve it'.In conjunction with this, self-gifting can also occur as a response to a negative attitude brought about by, for example, feelings of stress. Grub and Growth (1967) state that goods are symbols which communicate a message between an individual and society or their significant others. Consumption communicates socially shared meanings about identity (Arnold, et al, 2004). If a product is to serve as a symbol as a communication device, it must be first gain societal recognition (Grub & Growth, 1967). This process is essentially a classification system which places these products to others in society.These classification systems are society's way of piecing and organizing their activities in a sensible manner (Grub & Growth, 1967). Fashion as an example, illustrates the link of symbolic classification and consumer behavior. When a particular style of fashion becomes popular, a segment of society may direct their behavior towards the archiving and consuming of items manifesting this style (Grub & Growth, 1967). Therefore, an act of classification not only directs self action, but also a set of expectations may be aroused towards the object classified (Grub & Growth, 1967).Marketers need to understand the essence of the object resides not in the object itself but in the direct relation between the object and the individuals classifying the object (Grub & Growth, 1967). Self-enhancement can be brought about by the purchase and consumption of goods in two ways. Firstly, an individuals' self-concept ill be maintained if they believe the good is societal accepted and classified in a manner that matches their self-concept. A product as a symbol contributes to one's looking glass self as the products' conveyed meaning creates symmetry matching the image an individual has of themselves.Secondly, an individual may receive either positive or negative reinforcement from significant others and this strengthens their self-concept with growth and change based on desired reactions from society (Sequester, Pettier, Spanis h, Raw Hill, 2014). Marketers are interested in this area of self as it splays image congruence where self-concept is enhanced through the transfer Of socially accepted meanings Of the product or brand (Arnold, et al, 2004). An individual's self schemas can be used by marketers to market goods which align with an individual's beliefs (Peter & Olson, 2010).This concept of self-enhancement directs consumer behavior to use goods to close the gap between actual and possible selves. These possible selves can be past, present or future. Consumer nostalgia as a past possible self is a powerful and rich tool that marketers can use to tap into an individuals' self. Nostalgia stems from a consumer's yearning for the past, often dissatisfied with the present state and coming future and to compensate, an individual may purchase vintage or retro looking goods to ‘bring them back to their perception of the golden ages (Shah, Lie, Teen & Lu, 2014).The similar concept may be applied to a futu re desired self in the form of anti-gambling advertisements. An individual may begin to increase their involvement towards their desired gambling-free self and may start to pay for counseling services to achieve this. In conclusion, the concept of self is multi-faceted and interrelates with one another, influencing behavior. The sense of self, socially created, is dynamic with consumers' motives playing a part in their consumption choices to develop or maintain their concept of self. Our possessions are a reflection of our identities and an expression of our beliefs.

Thursday, November 7, 2019

Explaining Public Relations Degrees

Explaining Public Relations Degrees Students in a public relations degree program learn what it takes to create and manage a strategic communication campaign for different types of companies and government agencies. They study the different methods that can be used to garner positive media attention and learn what it takes to shape public perception. Many people confuse public relations with marketing or advertising, but they are different things. Public relations is considered earned media, whereas marketing or advertising is something that you need to pay for. Students in a public relations program focus on persuasive communication. They learn how to write press releases and letters and master the art of public speaking so that they can host press conferences and speak at public meetings.   Types of Public Relations Degrees There are three basic types of public relations degrees that can be earned from a college, university, or business school: Bachelor Degree in Public Relations: Takes approximately four years to complete.Masters Degree in Public Relations: Takes approximately two years to complete.Doctorate Degree in Public Relations:  Usually takes three to five years to complete, though program length can vary. An associate degree may be enough for individuals who are looking for entry-level employment in the public relations field. However, a bachelors degree is usually the minimum requirement for anyone who wants to work as a public relations specialist or public relations manager. A masters degree or MBA with a specialization in public relations could increase an individuals chances of getting more advanced positions. Public relations specialists who are interested in teaching at the college or university level should consider a doctorate degree in ​public relations. Where Can I Earn a Public Relations Degree? There are a number of campus-based programs that award public relations degrees at the undergraduate and graduate level. You can also find online programs that are similar in quality. If you are intent on attending a campus-based program but cannot find one in your area that focuses on public relations, you should look for a good advertising or marketing degree program. These programs will allow you to study many of the same things you would in a public relations degree program, including advertising campaigns, marketing strategies, promotions, public speaking, communication, and public affairs. Other degree program options for aspiring public relations professionals include degree programs in communication, journalism, English, or general business. What Can I Do With a Public Relations Degree? Many people who earn a public relations degree go on to work for advertising, marketing, or public relations firms. Some also choose to work as independent consultants or open their own public relations firms. Common job titles for public relations professionals include: Promotions Assistant: Sometimes known as an advertising assistant, a promotions assistant may work in the public relations, advertising, marketing, or sales department of a company. These entry-level public relations professionals typically focus on promotional campaigns and may handle clerical duties, telephone operations, client communication, and other office-related responsibilities.Public Relations Specialist: Also known as communication specialists or media specialists, public relations specialists work directly with the media. They may be responsible for helping clients communicate with the public. They may answer media questions or contact media outlets to market information or share news. Writing press releases is also a typical job duty. U.S. News recently ranked public relations specialist as one of the best jobs of the year.Public Relations Manager:  Public relations managers or directors are similar to public relations specialists. However, they often have more respons ibilities. In a large company, they may supervise one or more public relations specialists. Public relations managers may also be responsible for writing speeches, designing campaigns, or creating, maintaining, and managing a companys image. Learning More About Public Relations The  Public Relations Society of America  (PRSA) is the world’s largest organization of public relations professionals. Members include everyone from aspiring PR professionals and recent college graduates to seasoned communications professionals. The organization is a great resource for anyone who is considering a public relations degree. When you join the Public Relations Society of America, you get access to education, networking, certification, and career resources. Networking with other people in the organization will give you a chance to learn more about the field so that you can determine whether or not a public relations degree is right for you.

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

Choosing the Best School for Your Child

Choosing the Best School for Your Child Finding the best school for your child can seem like a chore. Lets be honest, with educational budgets being slashed regularly in the US, you worry about whether or not your child is getting the best education possible. Maybe youre thinking about alternative high school options, which can vary from homeschooling and online schools to charter schools and private schools. The options can be overwhelming, and parents often need some help.   So, exactly how do you go about deciding if your current school is meeting your childs needs? And if its not, how do you go about choosing the right alternative high  school option for your child? Check out these tips.   Does Your Childs School Meet His or Her Needs? When you evaluate your current  school, and when you look at potential alternative high school options, be sure to not just think about this current year, but also consider the years ahead. If your child is struggling now, can the school provide the necessary support to augment mainstream classes?Is the school challenging your child enough? Are there advanced classes offered?Does the school offer the academic and extracurricular programs that your child wants? Its important to make sure that  the school your child attends is the best fit for the long haul.  Your child will grow and develop in that school, and you want to be aware of how the school will change over time. Does the school change from a caring, nurturing lower school to a demanding, competitive middle and upper school? Gauge the temperature of all the divisions before selecting a school. Does Your Child Fit in at His or Her Current School? Switching schools can be a big choice, but if your child doesnt fit in, he wont be successful. Does your child enjoy going to school?Does your child have an active, healthy, and engaged social life?Is your child involved in multiple sports and activities? The same questions should be asked if youre looking at potential new schools. While you may be tempted to gain admission to the most  competitive school  possible, be sure that your child is a good fit for the school and that it won’t be too demanding- or too easy- down the road. Don’t try to shoehorn your child into a school that doesn’t nurture her interests and talents just to say hes enrolled at a name-brand institution. Its also important to make sure that the classes meet your childs needs.   Can You Afford to Switch Schools? If switching schools is becoming an obvious choice, its important to consider the time and financial investment. While homeschooling is usually very low cost, its a major time investment. Private school might require less time than homeschooling, but more money. What to do? Consider these questions as you do some research and make your decisions. How much time do you as the parent have to invest in your childs schooling?Is your home an appropriate place for learning?What costs are associated with your alternative school option?Does a potential  new school have a tuition fee?Are there vouchers you need to obtain?Will switching schools require additional commuting or special arrangements for childcare and transportation?How will switching schools affect your familys daily life?Will you need to apply for financial aid at a private school? These are important questions to consider as you explore the option of finding an alternative school. Decide Whats Best for Your Entire Family While everything might point to private school or homeschooling as the right fit for your child, you need to consider the various implications on the entire family and you. Even if youve found the perfect private school, if you cant afford it, then youre going to do your child and your family a disservice if you head down a path thats not realistic. You may want to provide a homeschooling or online school experience, but if you dont have the proper time to invest in ensuring this form of study is properly carried out, youre putting your child at a disadvantage. The right solution will be a win for everyone involved, so weigh your options carefully.   If you decide that private school, in particular, is the best route for the entire family and the child, then consider these tips for finding the best private school. With hundreds of them available in the United States, theres a school out there that will fit your needs. It can be overwhelming to get started, but these tips will help you make the most of the private school search. Consider Hiring an Educational Consultant Now, if youve decided that switching schools is crucial, and a private school, in particular, is your top choice, you might hire a consultant. Of course, you can research schools yourself, but for many parents, they are lost and overwhelmed by the process. Theres help, however, and it can come in the form of a professional educational consultant. You will appreciate the sage counsel and experience that this professional brings to the table. Be sure to use a qualified consultant, and the best way to make sure of that is to only use those endorsed by the Independent Educational Consultants Association, or IECA. However, this tactic comes with a fee, and for middle-class families, that fee might not be affordable. Not to worry ... you can do this yourself. Make a List of Schools This is the fun part of the process. Most private schools have websites with great photo galleries and video tours, with ample information available about their programs. So you and your child can surf the internet together and find plenty of schools to consider. It is a very efficient way of making that first cut. We recommend saving the schools to your favorites as you find them. It will make a serious discussion of each school easier later on. Private School Finder has thousands of schools with their own websites. It is really important that you and your child understand each others  needs when it comes to choosing a school. By all means, guide the process. But dont impose your ideas on your child. Otherwise, shes not going to buy into the idea of going to a private school or may be resistant to the school you think is right for her. Then, using the spreadsheet mentioned above, make a short list of 3 to 5 schools. Its important to be realistic about your choices, and while you want to aim high for your dream schools, its also important to apply to at least one safe school  where you know your chances of acceptance are high. Also, consider if a competitive school is right for your child; schools that are known for being really competitive arent right for everyone.   Visit Schools This is critical. You simply cannot rely on the opinions of others or a website to tell what a school is really like. So schedule a visit for your child whenever possible. It will give her a good feel for her prospective new home away from home. It can also give parents peace of mind, knowing where their child will be spending their time.   Make sure you personally visit and inspect each school on your list. The schools want to meet you and interview your child. But you need to meet the admissions staff and ask them questions too. It is very much a two-way street. Do not be intimidated by the interview. When you are  visiting the school, look at the work on the walls and get an idea of what the school values. Be sure to visit classes and try to speak with teachers and students. Does the school seem to be the kind of place in which your child will thrive?Do the teachers seem capable of bringing out her talents?Do they seem committed to helping children learn? ​Attend an admission event, like an open house, to hear from top administrators, like the head of school, as well as other parents.  The headmaster can set the tone for a private school. Try to attend one of his or her speeches or read his or her publications. This research will acquaint you with the values and mission of the current school. Don’t rely on old assumptions, as schools change a great deal with each administration. ​Many schools will allow your child to attend classes and even stay overnight if it’s a  boarding school. This is an invaluable experience that will help your child understand what life at the school is really like, and if they can envision living that life 24/7.   Admissions Testing   Believe it or not, admission tests can help you find the best school for your child. Comparing test scores may help you better judge which schools may be the best ones to apply to, as average test scores are typically shared by the schools. If your childs scores are considerably lower or even higher than the average scores, you might want to have a conversation with the school to make sure the academic workload is adequate for your child.   Its important to prepare for these tests, too. Your child may be extremely smart, even gifted. But if she has not taken a couple of practice admissions tests, she will not shine on the real test. Test preparation is important. It will give her that edge she needs. Dont skip this step.   Be Realistic While its tempting for many families to fill their lists with names of the top private schools in the country, thats not the point. You want to find the best school for your child. The most elite schools may not offer the type of learning environment that is best for your child, and the local private school might not challenge your child enough. Spend some time getting to know what the schools offer and what your child needs in order to succeed. Choosing the best private school for your child is crucial. Apply for Admission and Financial Aid Dont forget that choosing the right school is just the first step. You still need to get in. Submit all applications materials on time and pay attention to application deadlines. In fact, wherever possible, submit your materials  early. Many schools offer online portals where you can track the progress of your application and stay on top of missing pieces so you can easily meet your deadlines.   Dont forget to apply for financial aid. Almost every private school offers some kind of financial aid package. Be sure to ask if you feel that you will need assistance. Once you have submitted your applications, thats pretty much it. Now all you have to do is to wait. Acceptance letters are typically sent out in March for schools with January or February admissions deadlines. You need to respond by an April deadline. If your child is wait-listed, dont panic. You shouldnt have to wait too long to hear one way or the other, and there are tips for what to do if you are waitlisted.

Sunday, November 3, 2019

Trends in Contemporary Society Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words - 1

Trends in Contemporary Society - Essay Example This will be followed by an exploration of the cellular phone and its relevance today. Looking at the trend of banning cell phone use while driving, this section will explore the ways in which the cellular phone is perceived of as a hazard while driving. Finally, we explore television as the most ubiquitous technological phenomenon and the ways in which this media helps further democracy and free thought. Significantly, technological trends are at the forefront of social change and the following will explore a multitude of technological trends and look at their social significance. iPod, through its parent company Apple Computers, has fundamentally transformed the ways in which people listen to music. Whether it is through the Ipod personal audio system, downloaded tracks through iTunes, or through the highly popular innovation of the iPhone, Apple has successfully appealed to its target demographic through a variety of innovative means. iPod has successfully outmaneuvered nearly all of its adversaries within the personal music field and radically transformed an industry. Whether it is the iPod shuffle, the iPod touch, classic or nano, this particular product continues to innovate and thus has maintained its supreme position at the helm of the personal listening device field. With bright new flashy skins, as well as a series of interfaces which tie directly into the Apple network, the innovation of the iPod continues and has ensured that this product remains at the forefront of an ever-changing industry. Teenagers are the primary audience for Apple’s st rategic marketing campaigns as they are also an important buying demographic unencumbered by major financial obligations. Teenagers are the demographic who may be able to afford to spend $250 on the latest iPod or the accessories associated with the latest personal mp3 player. Because teenagers often have more disposable and non-discretionary income than most other demographic groups, they