Comparative Analysis of Poetry Gwendolyn Brooks WE REAL COOL & Maya Essay

Comparative Analysis of Poetry Gwendolyn Brooks WE REAL COOL & Maya Angelou Phenomenal Women - Essay Example Gwendolyn Brooks and Maya Angelou are African-American women with strong personalities. The most dominant theme in Brooks works are the impact of ethnicity and life experiences on one's view of life. Angelou's, on the other hand, usually center on the themes of courage, perseverance, self-acceptance, and realization of one's full potential. "We Real Cool" depicts the climactic end of the battle of seven school dropouts and their struggles with personal identity. In this poem, Brooks speaks and feels for the seven school drop outs and sees the world through their eyes. The unfettered young men, though seemingly not concerned of their situation, as described in the first seven lines eventually turned out to have known the consequence of their actions. "At first, it seems like it is inadvertent, even an unguarded revelation but I think that both the poet and her hooligan narrator realize that the threat of death in the streets is an ever-present part of what makes life on the streets worthwhile. It's what gives that life vitality."1 There is no separation in the part of the writer and the characters. The writer speaks on behalf of the seven school drop outs. Perhaps, even feeling the uncertainties in their actions camouflaged by being "cool." Emphasizing it's tragic effect in the last line, "Die Soon." "Phenomenal Woman," on the other hand, describes a self-assured woman who has fully realized her self-worth that both sexes: "pretty women and men" did not fail to notice her existence. The words Maya Angelou uses show that the character is conscious of her actions and is in total control of the situation. There are no hesitancies on the part portrayed by the "phenomenal woman" in the poem. Only a self-assured "person". Notice the emphasis on the word "person." The character becomes phenomenal not because she IS a woman but simply because she has a full grasp of what she is and what she is not. A person created with equal importance with man. Not of lesser quality that she should worship him nor above him that she should lord over him, but a person that would complete the all of creation. For what is a woman, without a man and a man without a woman.. In conclusion, these works present the following: 1) male-female differences through the eyes of a woman; 2) employed rhythmic rhyming scheme with 3) pleasant tone ( lyrical: a feeling of dancing: Angelou's smooth, brooks' short but strong) in the use of 4) informal language (simple, crisp and powerful) which 5) appeals to the emotion (both are written based on what the writers feel) portraying the characters linked with a woman. The camouflage that a first

Virtual Lab Report Template Essay Example for Free

Virtual Lab Report Template Essay In this virtual lab activity, you will be observing the cell cycle in the tip of an onion root. The root tip is responsible for the downward growth of the root and is one of the regions in the plant where cells are actively dividing and growing. Because of this, the root tip is an excellent system in which to observe the entire cell cycle, including the processes of nuclear division (mitosis) and cell division (cytokinesis). You will be submitting a lab report as the assignment for this lesson. Be sure to read the instructions before completing the virtual lab activity and your lab report. Refer to the lab rubric before you submit your report to your instructor. Record any observations about the cells you observed: Data Analysis: Calculate the percentage of the cell cycle spent in each stage. Number of cells in given stage ? total number of cells counted ? 100 = % of the cell cycle spent in this stage Create a graph that represents the time spent in each stage of the cell cycle. Graph: Conclusion: Be sure to answer the following reflection questions in the conclusion of your lab report: 1 Based on your data, what can you infer about the length of time spent in each stage of mitosis? 2 What stages were the longest and shortest? Give a brief explanation of why these stages may have that time period. 3 What is a distinguishing visible feature of each stage of the cell cycle? 4 What differences can you see when you compare the nucleus of a dividing cell with that of a non-dividing cell? 5 If your observation had not been restricted to the tip of the onion root, how would the results be different?

Karl Marxs The Communist Manifesto Essay -- Communist Manifesto Essays

Karl Marx's The Communist Manifesto The Communist Manifesto written by Karl Marx and Frederick Engels formulates the basic concepts of Communism. Faith and reason can be used to explain parts of this document. The Communist Manifesto has definite views dealing with faith, and along with this, religion. In the Manifesto, Marx states that religion is not needed in Communism because a society under Communism is classless. Marx uses reason to explain what will happen to society due to the materialism of the Industrial Revolution. Marx reasons how society will become classless under the rule of communism. The proletariat, defined as the lower working class, will take over the bourgeoisie, defined as the upper class, because of the difference in capital between the two classes. The two classes clash because both are consumed with wants of material items and power but only the bourgeoisie has an abundance of these two items. The proletariat then revolts to gain equality and thus society becomes classless. Faith and reaso n are themes used in the Communist Manifesto to explain the ideals and concepts of Communism. Marx perceives religion as gratuitous in communism. Marx’s reaction toward religion is quite evident in just the second sentence: "All the powers of old Europe have entered into a holy alliance to exorcise this specter [communism]; Pope and Czar, Metternich and Guizot, French Radicals and German police-spies."1 Marx sees the Pope as an enemy therefore religion must be an enemy of Marx’s. In the Manifesto, Marx even sarcastically comments on the Catholic religion by calling the lives of the Saints silly.2 This reflects some of Marx’s views on religion that he displayed in the Manifesto. He has two main reasons ... ...o to explain his ideas of religion and society. Notes 1. Marx, Karl, The Communist Manifesto. Sources from the Humanities History and Religious Studies, 37. 2. Marx, 56. 3. Marx, 40. 4. Mckown, Delos B, The Classical Marxist Critiques of Religion: Marx, Engels, Lenin, Kautsky. Belgium: Martinus Nijhoff, The Hague, 1975, 58. 5. Marx, 52. 6. Janz, Denis R, World Christianity and Marxism. Oxford, NY: Oxford University Press, 1998, 11. 7. Janz, 11 8. Heimann, Eduard, Reason and Faith in Modern Society: Liberalism, Marxism, and Democracy. Middletown, Connecticut: Wesleyan University Press, 1961, 154. 9. Miller, Alexander, The Christian Significance of Karl Marx. London: Northumberland Press, 1946, 21. 10. Marx, 40. 11. Miller, 26. 12. Miller, 27. 13. Marx, 22-23. 14. Marx, 28-29.

Free College Essays - The Setting of Venice in Shakespeares Othello :: GCSE Coursework Shakespeare Othello

The Setting of Venice in Othello Othello is a fundamentally different character to all others in the play [1]. He is an outsider to Venice and therefore an outsider to the customs and society of Venice. In one way this is good for him. He is a renowned strong general who is much in demand from the Venetians. Rather than fight the war against the Turks for themselves, they hire Othello to do so, indicating that he is respected by the Venetians but not considered, as a civilized Venetian would be, above having to fight wars barbarically. This lack of cultural acceptance is indicated by the way Brabantio is willing to Îloveâ, invite to his house and ask him to tell battle stories. However, when there is the possibility of Desdemona marrying Othello, Brabantio is vehemently opposed, exclaiming; "Destruction on my head".[2] Venice is a haven of civilization, on the border with the land of heathenism and disputes. When Brabantio is told he has been robbed, he answers inconsistently; "What tellâst thou me of robbing? This is Venice; My house is not a grange." This not only shows that Venice is a quiet, civilized, uneventful place, but that its inhabitants (or at least Brabantioâs generation) believe it to be themselves.[ LINK TO 3] They live by a code of behavior and upbringing which views someone like Othello as barbarous, uncivilized, and almost amusing in a superior cultural kind of way. Every time a character calls Othello "the Moor" a sense of derision and superiority is conveyed and all the other feelings of distance inherent in Venetians.[4] Iago says that Desdemona is a "supersubtle Venetian"[5] as if the calculatedness of her thoughts and deeds were not too a feature of himself, which they certainly are. The implication is that civilised people are conniving and scheming people, and are in that sense understood to one another while this adds to the irony of the constant reference to Iago as "honest Iago". It also contrasts the Venetian way of social dealing with the open nature of Othello. Othello is clever, as his style and military prowess show but is to content of Venice he is na†¢ve. He is too trusting and misunderstands the subtleties of Venetian society it is the combination of his openness and decisiveness, pride and trustfulness that allows super subtle Iago to destroy him, powerful as Othello is. Free College Essays - The Setting of Venice in Shakespeare's Othello :: GCSE Coursework Shakespeare Othello The Setting of Venice in Othello Othello is a fundamentally different character to all others in the play [1]. He is an outsider to Venice and therefore an outsider to the customs and society of Venice. In one way this is good for him. He is a renowned strong general who is much in demand from the Venetians. Rather than fight the war against the Turks for themselves, they hire Othello to do so, indicating that he is respected by the Venetians but not considered, as a civilized Venetian would be, above having to fight wars barbarically. This lack of cultural acceptance is indicated by the way Brabantio is willing to Îloveâ, invite to his house and ask him to tell battle stories. However, when there is the possibility of Desdemona marrying Othello, Brabantio is vehemently opposed, exclaiming; "Destruction on my head".[2] Venice is a haven of civilization, on the border with the land of heathenism and disputes. When Brabantio is told he has been robbed, he answers inconsistently; "What tellâst thou me of robbing? This is Venice; My house is not a grange." This not only shows that Venice is a quiet, civilized, uneventful place, but that its inhabitants (or at least Brabantioâs generation) believe it to be themselves.[ LINK TO 3] They live by a code of behavior and upbringing which views someone like Othello as barbarous, uncivilized, and almost amusing in a superior cultural kind of way. Every time a character calls Othello "the Moor" a sense of derision and superiority is conveyed and all the other feelings of distance inherent in Venetians.[4] Iago says that Desdemona is a "supersubtle Venetian"[5] as if the calculatedness of her thoughts and deeds were not too a feature of himself, which they certainly are. The implication is that civilised people are conniving and scheming people, and are in that sense understood to one another while this adds to the irony of the constant reference to Iago as "honest Iago". It also contrasts the Venetian way of social dealing with the open nature of Othello. Othello is clever, as his style and military prowess show but is to content of Venice he is na†¢ve. He is too trusting and misunderstands the subtleties of Venetian society it is the combination of his openness and decisiveness, pride and trustfulness that allows super subtle Iago to destroy him, powerful as Othello is.

Homeless Veterans Essay

Abstract Homelessness has always existed in the United States, but only in recent years has the issue become a more prevalent and noticeable phenomenon. Homeless veterans began to come to the attention of the public at the same time. News accounts chronicled the plight of veterans who had served their country but were living (and dying) on the streets. The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates about 250,000 veterans are homeless on any given night. (2012, pg. 4) My research will examine how homelessness is impacting our veterans and what interventions are available to homeless veterans. Introduction Whether it is wartime or peacetime, the men and women who serve our country live an unusual life style. Whether it is in the barracks or in the fields, military personnel form close alliances and bonds, which are necessary because they must depend on one another for survival. Once these veterans return home from the Gulf, Iraq or Afghanistan war or even if they just decide to discharge honorably, they face a whole new set of problems. These problems can be as small as reintegrating with their family, finding a job or finding a place to live. An ongoing problem that our veterans learn to cope with is how to deal with combat issues such as physical and mental disabilities. Today’s veterans find that he/she has more difficulty because they are not looked at in the way veterans were looked upon in the past. America’s patriotism has changed. Men were drafted into the military with the promises for a better future because they served their country. The country got behind them because they were fighting a World War. But Vietnam was the turning point for our veterans and upon their return home, they became society’s problem. Many young veterans who returned home were between 18 – 31 years old. Some were physically wounded and some were physically disabled. These veterans were sent home to our veterans hospitals for treatment. There were also those who had mental health issues and some help  was given to them but not enough. Veterans were discharged much too quickly. Where were these veterans to go? Many tried to reintegrate into society by securing housing (apartment or room) and others tried to move back home with their families. However, many veterans faced considerable challenges as a result of their physical disabilities and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). This caused many veterans to become homeless. First, society could not deal with veterans up close and personal and second, another reason was because the war haunted many veterans every day (PTSD). Therefore, for some veterans, they would rather live on the streets because they actually felt safer. According to data from Department of Veterans Affairs office of Inspector General, â€Å" veterans who became homeless after military separation were younger, enlisted with lower pay grades and were more likely to be diagnosed with mental disor ders at the time of separation from active duty.† (2012, pg. 4) Our veterans are our most important resource. We (Americans) do not live in a closed world anymore and when trouble comes to our shores, it is our veterans we depend upon to defend us. Our military is voluntary at this time and society and our government should protect and preserve their lives because without the veterans who would we count on? The military that protects us are strong, well trained, intelligent men and women who are willing to lay their lives on the line for their country. And for that reason, they deserve our respect, our support and our care. The social worker plays a major role in helping the veterans to stay connected to family and their community. The social worker’s role is to help the veteran and his family to access all resources that can be beneficial to the veteran’s recovery and a smoother re-entry back into his/her life. My research will attempt to answer the following questions: How common is homelessness among veterans?  What are the risk factors: gender, age, race and ethnicity, disability and how does it impact housing placement? What interventions are provided to address veteran homelessness? Do female veterans feel more isolated? Literature Reviews: Comparison of Outcomes of Homeless Female and Male Veterans in Transitional Housing Homelessness among female veterans is of national concern but few studies have been conducted on regards to how homelessness among female veterans differs from male veterans. The healthcare of female veterans has become an important priority for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as female veterans represent one of the fastest growing groups of new VA healthcare users. Studies have shown female veterans are less healthy and are in poorer mental health compared to male veterans, which has been attributed to barriers for women in accessing VA health services and allegations that the VA is male-dominated and not attentive enough to the needs of women (MacGregor et al. 2011: Weiss 1995, pg. 705). Homelessness among female veterans is a central issue as the VA strives to end homelessness among all veterans. Although women constitute about 8% of sheltered homeless veteran population, that number is expected to increase and women veterans have been found to be at higher risk of being homeless than their male counterparts (U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development & U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs 2009, pg. 705). The literature on homeless female veterans is small with only two previous studies identified in a comprehensive review. One study concluded that risk of homelessness is two to four times greater for women veterans (Gamache et al. 2003, pg. 706), and the other study found that compared to homeless male veterans, homeless female veterans are younger, less likely to be employed, more likely to have a major mental illness, but less likely to have a substance abuse use disorder (Leda et al. 1992, pg. 706). A small case-control study also found that sexual assault during military service, being unemployed, being disabled and having physical and mental health were risk factors for homelessness among female veterans (Washington et al. 2010, pg. 706). In the current study, the data used came from multi-site outcome study of homeless veterans enrolled in VA-funded transitional housing services (McGuire et al. 2011, pg. 706), through cross-sectional comparisons of homeless male and female veterans at the time of entry into transitional housing and examining outcomes 12 months after discharge. It is further hypothesized that, due to suggestions that there may be increased barriers for female veterans in accessing VA health services, female veterans would have worse outcomes than their male counterparts after transitional housing. Traumatic Stressor Exposure and Post-Traumatic Symptoms in Homeless Veterans  The Department of Housing and Urban Development (Carlson et al. 2012, pg. 970) recently reported that 13% of all homeless persons were veterans and an estimated 63,000 veterans were homeless on one night in January 2012. High rates of mental health problems have been reported in military and veteran populations. These problems may be related to trauma exposure and contributing to homelessness. Approximately 70% of homeless veterans have substance abuse issues and 45% are diagnosed with mental illness. (Carlson et al. 2012, pg. 970) Combat exposure has been found to increase risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which in turn, is thought to increase risk for homelessness. One study examining the rates of PTSD pre- and post deployment in a combat unit found that rates of PTSD increased from 9.4% to 18%, suggesting that exposure to combat raised the prevalence of PTSD in the unit (Hoge et al. 2004). Military veterans may also have an elevated risk of PTSD as a result of noncombat military stressors, such as dangerous or unstable conditions, witnessing injury, death or atrocities. Military trauma exposure puts individuals at risk for both PTSD and homelessness, but it is less clear whether civi lian trauma exposure increases risk for PTSD and homelessness in veterans. In a study of Vietnam veterans, both PTSD and exposure to combat and other war-related atrocities indirectly increased risk for homelessness, whereas interpersonal violence, and other types of nonmilitary trauma appeared to have direct effects on risk for homelessness (Carlson t al. 2013, pg. 970). A better understanding of the types of trauma that homeless veterans are exposed to could help identify veterans at increased risk for PTSD and homelessness and inform treatment (Carlson et al. 2013, pg. 970). Homeless Veterans of the All-Volunteer Force: A Social Selection Perspective The dramatic increase in urban homelessness in the United States has included large numbers of veterans. As with other Americans, poverty, alcohol, drugs, mental illness and social isolation have been documented as the primary risk factors for homelessness among veterans. As would be expected of an age cohort effect, in 1986 – 1987 the overrepresentation was highest among veterans of ages twenty to th irty-four, and in 1996 the odds of being a homeless veteran were highest among veterans aged thirty-five to forty-four (Tessler et al. 2003, pg.509) In this article, the explanatory factors all derive from a social selection perspective that refers to the idea that individuals with personal  characteristics that would later put them at risk for homelessness were recruited to military service in disproportionate numbers during the early years of the all-volunteer force (AVF). Culturally Competent Social Work Practice with Veterans: An Overview of U. S. Military If social workers are to serve veterans effectively and efficiently, a basic understanding of the United States military is essential. Despite a longstanding and intimate relationship between social workers and veterans, the profession has been criticized for the lack of veteran-specific practitioner resources. The literature has been characterized as providing little practical guidance while universities and professional organizations failed to develop and incorporate the curriculum, information and tools needed to prepare social workers to serve this special population (Savitsky et al. 2009, pg. 863). Recently more information seems to be revolving with additional resources becoming available through social work journals, the development of advanced practice standards for military social workers, as well as academic course and degree specializations focusing on military social worker (Zoroya, 2009, pg. 864). The common theme has been the importance of military cultural competency. The acknowledgment of military culture is complex and not well understood by civilians and continues to impact veterans after discharge. This article presents information in anticipation of a Department of Veteran Affairs funded research project with veterans experiencing homelessness. Also, the article presents a structural and historical overview of the United States military, the propensity to enlist in armed forces, military culture and training methods and outcomes. It concludes with a discussion of implications for social work practice. Generally, military culture differs from the larger society in the United States as it is paternalistic and maintains a strict hierarchy. The military is characterized by a collectivist approach; encouraging interdependency; group orientation and group cohesion. Highly criticized qualities of military culture include misogyny and homophobia. The integration of females into armed forces has been hampered by fear of cohesiveness among males would be undermined. Experience indicates servicewomen are no more vulnerable to stress than servicemen and are able to complete physical tasks required of them. Unfortunately, women are subject to gender-based bias, stereotypes and harassment, both mental and physical. Alarming incidences of sexual  harassment and sexual violence has increased in the military. A 2004 survey indicates 52% of women experienced sexual harassment while serving; 10% did not feel it would do any good and 42% feared they would suffer adverse consequences (Zeiger & Gunderson, 2005. Pg. 867). Although changing with the repeal of Don’t’ Ask, Don’t Tell, the military has been strongly criticized for banning homosexuals from serving opening (Herek & Belkin, 2006. Pg. 867). Reason being it would undermine unit bonds and effectiveness and that privacy could not be provided. Ultimately, it is important to note that the attitudes of heterosexual servicemen and women may not have been as biased against homosexuality as previously thought. The belief that gays be allowed to openly serve in the military had increased in recent years, indicating the obsta cle to integration was not the attitudes of servicemen and women, but of military tradition. Social workers encounter veterans in public and private practice and effectively serving them demands military cultural competency. Social worker must have a foundation of general understanding of the larger military, its basic history and the complimentary roles played by the different branches (Petrovich, 2012. pg. 871). Veterans will have divergent service experiences and their opinions regarding service could vary widely. The more the social worker knows, this will help develop rapport with the clients, facilitate a more individualized understanding of their service history and other relevant areas. In the end, it is likely that veterans experience ambivalence regarding military culture and service experience and some military-oriented traits may be viewed as problematic in civilian life. However it’s important for the veteran and the social worker to explore and interpret these issues with respect the veteran’s sense of affiliation with and attachment to the military (Petrovich, 2012. pg. 872). Thus, a review of the literature has revealed helpful information about: How common is homelessness among veterans? What are the risks factors: gender, age, race, and ethnicity and disability and its impact? What interventions are provided to address this homeless problem among veterans? Do female homeless veterans feel more isolated? This research study will examine the impact of these four research questions  from the most recent data from the Veteran Affairs transitional housing programs. Specifically this study hypothesizes that participants in the different VA-funded transitional housing services will: Is the rate of homelessness increased and/or decreased between homeless female and male veterans? Are there increased barriers for female veterans in accessing VA services, in which female veterans would have worse outcomes than male counterparts after transitional housing? Sampling The research approach that will be utilized for my chosen topic is qualitative research. Qualitative research is flexible; it uses open-ended questions in interviews, participant observations and is often the best fit for diverse and at-risk populations such as homeless veterans whereas quantitative methods involve analysis of numbers; structured surveys, observations and examines existing information/reports. Also, in qualitative research, the research methods are not as dependent upon the sample sizes as in quantitative methods. Methodology Three major forms of VA-funded transitional housing service for homeless veterans will be included in this study: the health care for homeless veterans (HCHV) program; the grant and per diem (GPD) program and the domiciliary care for homeless veteran program (DCHV). The first two programs provide assistance to veterans through contracts with or grants to community service providers while the DCHV provides service directly through the VA staff at the local VA facility. Data were collected for a prospective, naturalistic study to compare these three transitional housing services across five different VA administrative regions (North, South, East, Wets and Mid-West). The study focused on 59 female participants and 1181 males. The female participant were Black (53%) or White (41%) and had a mean age of 43.89 years; while the majority of male participants were Black (59%) or White (35%), and had a mean age of 48.13 years. This information utilizes the variable of value (gender) and the constant (homelessness). Age is variable that can be measured by asking the participants to write down their age in the blank space. Procedures The data collection was conducted from May 2002 through September 2005.  Independent evaluators recruited, consented and conducted baseline and follow-up interviews with veterans in the transitional housing programs. Intake interviews were conducted before entering VA housing program, baseline interviews completed after admission and follow-up interviews were conducted 6 and 12 months after program discharge. Participation rate was very high (99.16%), and each participant gave informed consent. They were paid $10 for baseline interview and $25 for each follow-up interview. Measures When doing the initial intake interview, a paper form would be used to gather information from the participants to document their socio-demographic characteristics, combat exposure, housing and work history, psychiatric diagnoses, brief hospitalization history and a assessment of mental and physical health status. At baseline interview, participants were asked to complete a measure of the social climate of their residential care service. At follow-up interviews, a series of measures were administered to participants to assess: Housing: They were asked how many days in the last 30 days they have slept in different types of places such as housed (room or apartment) somebody else’s apartment; days in an institution (hospital, hotel or jail) and days homeless. Income and Employment: They were asked about their current employment pattern and classified as employed or unemployed; number of days they worked for pay and their employment income in 30 days. Also how much money they received from disability and public assistance. Substance Abuse Status: Alcohol and drug use in the past month. General Physical and Mental Health Status: Medical conditions were assessed with 12 questions that asked participants yes/no whether they had any of 12 common serious medical problems (e.g. hypertension, liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and orthopedic problems). Also includes an 8-item psychiatric composite scale which was used to assess general mental health status. Quality of Life: General quality of life and quality of social life were assessed. Residential Social Climate: At baseline, participants were asked to rate their perceptions of the treatment environment of their residential care program. Findings At intake the female participants were significantly younger; report more  psychiatric symptoms, more likely to be diagnosed with mood disorders, has shorter histories of homelessness and less likely to be working than male veterans. Male participants were reported to have higher risk factors of homelessness due to substance abuse (70%) and PTSD (45%) due to combat exposure. Between one to six months in transitional housing services, both genders were showing improvement on employment income and overall psychiatric scores. At six months, female participants showed some decrease in employment and an increase in their psychiatric scores whereas the male participants continued to show improvements. After a one year period, female participants showed improvement in housing, employment and incomes, substance abuse use and general physical and mental health and quality of life compared to male participants. This suggests that homeless female veterans can benefit as much from transitional housing services as male veterans. Transitional housing programs and shelter have been predominantly male environment focused on serving men, in the VA context. But this study found that, after adjusting for multiple comparisons, there were no differences in how homeless male and female veterans perceived the social climate of their transitional housing program or in their overall clinical benefits. These findings suggests that VA efforts to improve services for women may be successful, but need to continue. Limitations One limitation of this study is the small sample size of homeless female veterans. Also we were not able to differentiate between female veteran who are caring for dependent children and those who were not. Validity is a standard that determines whether an instrument measures what it is supposed to measure and whether it measures it accurately. Accuracy is the key issue. Because of small sampling of female veteran participant, the question of dependent children was a valid observation. Reliability is the second key standard in determining if a measure is satisfactory. Reliability refers to the internal consistency of the measure. Dudley states that the connection between validity and reliability is triangulation. Triangulation is a process of using multiple methods to measure one concept. If it is determined that the results of one measure of the same variable are similar to the results from another measure of the same variable, they are triangulating the findings. They are deemed to be both valid and reliable  because they have similar results. (Dudley, 2011). Bibliography Carlson, Eve B., Garvert, Donn W., Macia, Kathryn S., Ruzek, Josef I., Burling, Thomas A. (2013). Traumatic Stressor Exposure and post-Traumatic symptoms in Homeless Veterans. Military Medicine, Vol. 178, 9:970-973. Dudley, J.R. (2011). Research Methods for Social Work. Second edition. Boston: Pearson Education. Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon. Gamache, G., Rosenheck, R., & Tessler, R. (2003). Overrepesentation of women veterans among homeless women. American Journal of Public Health, 93(7), 1132-1136. Herek, G. M., & Belkin, A. (2006). Sexual Orientation and Military Service: Prospects for organizational change and individual change in the United States. In T. W. Britt, A. B. Adler, & C. A. Castro (Eds.), Military Life: the Psychology of serving in Peace and Combat (pp. 119-142). Westport, CT: Praeger Security International. Hoge CW, Castro, CA, Messer SC, McGurk D, Cotting DI, Koffman RL. Combat duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, Mental Health Problems, and Barriers to Care. New England Journ al of Medicine; 351(1): 13-22. Leda, C., Rosenheck, R., & Gallup, P. (1992). Mental illness among female veterans. Hospital & Community Psychiatry, 43(10), 1026-1028. MacGregor, C., Hamilton, A. B., Oishi, S. B., & Yano, E. M. (2011). Descriptive, development, and philosophies of mental health service delivery for female veterans in the VA: A qualitative study. Women’s Health Issues, 21(4), S138-S144. McGuire, J. F., Rosenheck, R. A., & Kasprow, W. J. (2011). Patient and program predictors of 12-month outcomes for homeless veterans following discharge from time-limited residential treatment. Administration and Policy in Mental Health and Mental Health Services Research,38, 142-154. Petrovich, James. (2012). Culturally Competent social work Practice with Veterans: an Overview of the U. S. Military. Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment, 22:863-874. Routledge: Taylor & Francis Group Savitsky, L., Illingworth, M., & DuLaney, M. (2009) Civilian Social Work: Serving the military and veteran populations. Social Work, 54(4), 327-339. Tessler, Richard, Rosenheck, Robert and Gamache, Gail. (2003). Homeless Veterans of the All-Volunteer Force: A social Selection Perspective. Armed forces & Society, Vol. 29, No. 4, pp. 509-524. Tsai, Jack, Rosenheck, Robert A. and McGuire, James F. (2012). Comparison of Outcomes of Homeless Female and Male Veterans in Transitional Housing. Community Mental Health Journal, 48:705-710. United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, & United States Department of Veterans Affairs. (2009). Veteran Homelessness: A supplemental report to the 2009 annual homeless assessment report to Congress. Washington, DC: US Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Community Planning and Development: US Department of Veterans Affairs, National Center on Homelessness Among Veterans. Washington, D. L., Yano, E. M. Mcguire, J. F., Hines, V., Lee, M., & Gelberg, L. (2010).Risk factors for homelessness among women veterans. Journal of health Care for the Poor and Underserved. 21, 81-91. Zeigler, S. L. & Gunderson, G. G. (2005). Moving beyond G. I. Jane: Women and the U. S. Army. New York, NY: University Press of America. Zoroya, G. (2009, October 5). USA Today, p. 4a. More colleges develop classes on how to treat war vets.

Lack of Treatment Is One Reason Your Social Security Disability Claim May Be Denied

Lack of Treatment Is One Reason Your Social Security Disability Claim May Be Denied Lack of Treatment Is One Reason Your Social Security Disability Claim May Be Denied Applying for Social Security Disability benefits is a long, confusing and stressful process. In fact, research shows that 70% of all claimants who file for disability benefits are initially denied. But if this happens to you, do not give up. Contact an experienced disability attorney for help in applying for disability, or appealing a denial. Even people who deserve disability benefits often have to fight before those benefits are granted. In fact, thousands of people who were once denied are now receiving their disability benefits after allowing Disability Attorneys of Michigan to help.There are a number of factors that could cause your claim for disability benefits to be denied. Below is one reason†¦Lack of Medical Treatment is the #1 reason why SSD claims are denied.If a claimant is not seeking regular medical treatment for their physical or mental impairment, the lack of medical records to support their claim can result in their claim being denied. Making sure that you recei ve continued medical treatment from licensed medical providers is essential in any Social Security Disability claim.Many ask the question, â€Å"What if I can’t afford to seek medical attention?†If you are unable to afford the medical treatment you need, look into applying for Medicaid and/or research the Affordable Care Act. Don’t hesitate to contact an experienced Social Security Disability attorney at Disability Attorneys of Michigan for help and guidance. We’re always here to answer any questions that you may have regarding disability benefits.The Disability Attorneys of Michigan work hard every day helping the disabled of Michigan obtain the disability benefits they deserve. If you are unable to work due to a physical or mental impairment call Disability Attorneys of Michigan now for a free consultation at 800-949-2900.And if you have applied for disability benefits in Michigan and have been denied, call us for help.Let Michigan’s leading Soci al Security Disability law firm help you get the benefits you  deserve.Disability Attorneys of Michigan.  Compassionate Excellence. Affordable Care Act, DA Michigan, Denied Claim, Disability Attorneys of Michigan, lack of treatment, Social Security Disability, social security disability attorneys, SSD Claim

Rome Empire essays

Rome Empire essays World History ISP Essay The Roman Empire Two thousand seven hundred and fifty five years ago in 573 B.C., there lay seven wooded hills along the Tiber River in central Italy. From these hills the greatest Empire to ever exist was created, Rome. Rome was the super power of its time. By 275 B.C. it controlled most of the Italian Peninsula. At its peak in the A.D. one hundreds The Roman Empire covered about half of Europe, much of the middle east, and the north coast of Africa. The Roman Empire was the Greatest Empire of all time. The Tiber River allowed for a convenient sea route, which was an only24 kilometer to the west. Rome was far away enough from the sea to defend themselves from pirates, the hills were very steep which made it easy to defend against enemy attacks. Other factors, which made the land suitable for civilization, include fertile soil and excellent building materials that were located nearby. Rome had many natural resources including a surplus of grain from Sicilys fertile grain fields. The Roman Empire probably had from 50 to 70 million people at its height, from that number approximately 1 million lied in Rome, and 5 to 6 million in the rest of Italy . The People of the Ancient Roman Empire represented a lot of different cultures and religions. In Rome they spoke mostly Latin, though in conquered territories the civilians who were conquered usually spoke their native languages and practiced their own religions. ...

Crimes in the Name of Honor essays

Crimes in the Name of Honor essays How important honor is? In various countries throughout the world, particularly in the Middle East and parts of South Asia, notion of family honor is extremely important. The reputation of a family in the Islamic world rests on the reputation of its women. Women are usually killed because their families suspect them of immoral behavior, and having thus dishonored their families must die. These kinds of crimes are justified in the name of honor. Honor killing is an old practice in which men kill female relatives such as sisters or daughters in order to protect their familys honor, for forced or suspected of losing their virginity outside marriage, for having refused an arranged marriage or having left a husband, even when they have been victims of a sexual crime. Therefore, women who bring dishonor to their families are forced to pay a terrible price at the hands of male family member. Among honor killings, according to UNICEF Executive Director targets violence against women, there are other kinds of violence. For example: bride burning, acid violence; in Bangladesh, a common punishment is sulfuric acid thrown in the womens face. Female infanticide has been practice as a brutal method of family planning in societies, usually of newborn girls in some communities in Asia. In the Documentary Crimes of Honor-Women in the Middle East, Rania Arafat is a young girl who ran away after falling in love with a man that her family didnt approve. Hiding from her family and fearing for her life. However, she believed in the words of her mother and father, therefore, she returned. But on the way home Rania was murdered, shot in the head by her brother. She was still a virgin. Ghazi al Marine had been married just three months, when a murder came to his home and shot his wife. The murder was her brother. According to the brother he killed her sister to p...

Foundations of a common European home Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Foundations of a common European home - Essay Example r doors to migrations of selective groups notably: southern Europeans including Italians, Spaniards and Portuguese, as well as the recruitment of Turks for work in West Germany, Magrebians in France, and West Indian and Asians in the UK.1 What this meant is that Europe, immigration and, most importantly, the rapid industrialization would lay the foundations for the concept of a â€Å"common European home† in the 1950s and 1960s. In a bid to reassert their power in the postwar setting, countries in Europe, particularly Germany, France and Great Britain encouraged immigration, as many jobs were needed to filled. Most of these were factory work – those who were avoided by the nationals. The source of immigrants came from the poorer European countries, initially, and when these countries closed the wage gap with its more affluent neighbors, immigration and labor recruitment started to be sourced from the European colonies such as in South Asia and Africa.2 As migrant laborers renew their working contracts time and time again, they eventually laid down roots and a sense of residential permanency that they strove to legalize. Because of this, European governments have devised ways to integrate these immigrants into their respective societies drafting legislation to the same effect. For instance, we have the case of the West Berlin’s policy during the 1950s where the city government espoused the self -help philosophy in political-cultural integration. The functional approach that the city adopted has downplayed ethnic differences and made the immigrant-origin population an integral part of all local departmental and institutional mandates.3 This has cultivated a multicultural society somewhat akin to a common European home for European nationalities. Later on, sometime in 1975, European countries such as France and West Germany would enact family reunification policies wherein foreigners could settle permanently in the country along with their families.4 Because of

Trends of HIV and AIDS in the USA Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

Trends of HIV and AIDS in the USA - Assignment Example Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is like any other virus that attacks human beings. The difference is that this virus cannot be eradicated by the immune system. The virus is responsible for weakening the key parts of the human immune system (CD4 cells or T-cells), such that it becomes ineffective in fighting diseases. With time, it causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Symptom (AIDS), at the final stage of HIV infection. With proper treatment, however, a person can keep his/her HIV level low reducing the chances of developing AIDS (Aids.gov, 2014). The condition can be transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person, childbirth (from infected mother) and blood transfusion (exchange of blood from infected individuals). In 1981, United States of America became the first country to recognize HIV and AIDS as a new disease among gay men. However, the origins of HIV and AIDS are suspected to be in Africa (Avert, 2014). Since it was first discovered to the public conscience more than three decades ago to date, the disease has gained a notorious reputation as a feared and controversial disease in modern medicine which leads to it being widely politicized and mystified (Avert, 2014). During the early 1980s, disjointed reports from many states, especially California and New York, claimed that small groups of men, most notably elderly men of Jewish/Mediterranean descent and young African Americans, were contracting a rare and new type of cancer and/or pneumonia. A common factor in the groups of individuals affected by this disease was that they were all homosexuals. In June 1981, the condition was first documented by the United States Center for Disease and Control and Prevention (CDC) and was named as Pneumocystis Pneumonia. By early 1982, the condition had acquired various names including ‘gay-related immune deficiency’, ‘gay-cancer’ and ‘gay compromise syndrome’ with approximately five new cases being reported per week. The acronym AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) was suggested in July 1982 at a meeting in Washington with the CDC first using the term in September 1982. Â  

Hawley Harvey Crippen Case Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Hawley Harvey Crippen Case - Research Paper Example This is also considered as the first case Bernard Spilsbury, the renowned pathologist investigated. Radio was used for the tracking of the criminals; this was strange in that period. Advocates who cry for the abolition of death penalty gives the case of Crippen as an example for the wrongfully convicted cases. However, Dr Crippen’s conviction is not considered false by many people. The wife of Doctor Hawley Crippen was found missing when Crippen maintained affair with another woman. As in most wife death cases, when adultery is traced, spouse and his mistress were suspected. Hawley Harvey Crippen, an American citizen, who had worked as a homeopathic doctor in a pharmaceutical company lived with his second wife Cora. She became an Opera singer, with the name Belle Elmore. Belle was a pleasant and vivacious woman who was interested in dressing and make up. She liked displaying herself. She had dark hair and a New York accent of speech. She was a Roman Catholic. She changed her h usband to her faith. Unlike his wife Crippen was a small man. He did not have an appealing appearance. He had a bald forehead and a thick, sandy moustache. He was an insignificant figure with sharp eyes, behind the gold-rimmed spectacles. During the trial he was seen as a gentle, kind, well-mannered man. Rumor says that Elmore controlled everything in their house while she had several affairs with other men. Though this information was not verified, Crippen and Cora, for sure, remained not committed to each other. In the year 1900, the couple moved to England from the United States. Crippen’s medical qualifications did not permit him to practice him in England as he had to work in homeopathic medicine preparation. They changed places several times and finally settled in Holloway London. They had paying boarders in their house which supplemented their income. Certain people considered this as the beginning of the problem between wife and husband. Things went terribly wrong as wife loved flirting with other men and husband started relationship with another woman. The relationship between Crippen and his wife worsened as the days go. Belle was tired of her husband. She was aware of his relationship with Ethel le Neve. She threatened that she would leave Crippen. This news must have been happy for him. But she wanted their joint savings to be taken with her. As per the records, on in December 1909, she submitted notice for the withdrawal of the money in the bank. Crippen must have been furious over this. Dr Crippen, deciding to kill his wife, ordered the poison hyoscine, from a New Oxford Street chemist. According to the records the collected the poison from the chemist and signed the chemist’s register. The couple invited few close friends of Belle and had dinner and drinks on January 31 1910. Paul Martinetti and his wife Clara who attended the dinner stayed until late night. They were the last people to see Belle. According to their neighbors, the couple had a long argument in the morning hours. Some cries for help were also reported to hear. A few days Dr. Crippen ordered some of his wife’s theatrical weakly subscriptions to be cancelled. He reasoned that his wife had returned to America and it will take few months for her return. To those who enquired Crippen said that his wife had visited California on a family emergency, and she died later being infected with pneumonia. Dr Crippen’s lover Ethel le Neve moved to the house after few days.

Emergency Operations Plan in an Emergency Situation in the Campus Essay

Emergency Operations Plan in an Emergency Situation in the Campus - Essay Example Therefore, there requires an emergency plan that will respond to all the necessary issues that arise at the time of an emergency situation. Weber State University has developed a similar plan to address emergency situations effectively. The Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) aims to address the potential hazards that can give rise to an emergency situation in the campus and to provide a comprehensive implementation plan to cater to these issues. The EOPs scope is wide as it covers the natural disasters, technological hazards and extraordinary situations like criminal events. Therefore, earthquake, mudslide, flood, tornado, weather extremes and fire breakout in the wildland are all possible emergency situations in which EOP will be effective. Likewise, transportation accidents, utility failure, incidents with hazardous materials or chemicals and structural fire are covered under EOP as technological hazards. Similarly, civil disturbances, sabotage between student and staff member, bomb threat and criminal or violent behavior are covered under the extraordinary emergency situations. The Weber State University EOPs will cover the potential emergency situations, provide an effective plan for implementation, develop institutional responsibilities and highlight the mechanism for monitoring and control in emergency situations. The EOPs will be adhered by all the employees and the students of the University, alike. In order to activate the EOPs, the University has assumed several situations and circumstances that will make it easier for all the stakeholders to effectively implement and execute the plan in their best interests.  

Relationship between Job Satisfaction and Nurse's Turnover in Essay

Relationship between Job Satisfaction and Nurse's Turnover in Intensive Care Unit - Essay Example Basically, ICUs have complex clinical areas such as emergency departments and critical care and the nurses working in these departments often face complex problems related to decision making, working long hours, shift work as well as high patient turnover. Thus, it is vital to retain highly skilled and specialised nurses working in this critical area and this can only be attained by ensuring that the nurses are satisfied with their work (Murrells et al. 2005). During the contemporary period, it can be noted that young adults are now better positioned to find better and lucrative employment opportunities in other fields as a result of the rapid changes such as technological innovations taking place in the environment in which we live. A concern of morality and ethics is rapidly diminishing when people consider their careers and it can be noted that the current generation of young adults are less motivated to join the nursing profession. Moreover, research has shown that the shortage o f nurses in acute hospitals can be attributed to the element of little job satisfaction because of lack of job fulfilment and heavy workloads (Hayes, Bonner, & Pryor 2010). ... The search of literature in this case is limited to research articles published in English and the search strategy is illustrated in table 1. The keywords used to collect relevant articles include the following: Factors effecting nursing job satisfaction. Job satisfaction among intensive care nurses. Nursing turnover. The articles were included if they met the following inclusion criteria: English language articles. Peer reviewed journals. Table 1 Research strategy Hits Nature of research Country Research methodology -factors affecting nursing job satisfaction in ICUs -dissatisfaction -nursing turnover in IC -The research is based on review of published research in ICU and healthcare. No actual research was conducted. -the paper focuses on Australia, USA and China. -the paper is based on qualitative method where published research in this area is critically analysed. About four articles will be reviewed. Review theme The specific theme of this review of research literature is to esta blish the relationship between nursing job satisfaction and turnover in the intensive care units. Literature review: The review of literature in this case is a combination of summary and explanation of the most current studies related to the topic. The qualitative method of analysing published literature which is employed in this paper is significant in that it gives a clear understanding of the subject area as well as insight into areas that may require further research. The understanding of current literature in this subject area reviewed is important because it provides a foundation upon which a researcher can build knowledge. Factors affecting job satisfaction: The concept of job satisfaction is complex in that there are

Emergency Operations Plan in an Emergency Situation in the Campus Essay

Emergency Operations Plan in an Emergency Situation in the Campus - Essay Example Therefore, there requires an emergency plan that will respond to all the necessary issues that arise at the time of an emergency situation. Weber State University has developed a similar plan to address emergency situations effectively. The Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) aims to address the potential hazards that can give rise to an emergency situation in the campus and to provide a comprehensive implementation plan to cater to these issues. The EOPs scope is wide as it covers the natural disasters, technological hazards and extraordinary situations like criminal events. Therefore, earthquake, mudslide, flood, tornado, weather extremes and fire breakout in the wildland are all possible emergency situations in which EOP will be effective. Likewise, transportation accidents, utility failure, incidents with hazardous materials or chemicals and structural fire are covered under EOP as technological hazards. Similarly, civil disturbances, sabotage between student and staff member, bomb threat and criminal or violent behavior are covered under the extraordinary emergency situations. The Weber State University EOPs will cover the potential emergency situations, provide an effective plan for implementation, develop institutional responsibilities and highlight the mechanism for monitoring and control in emergency situations. The EOPs will be adhered by all the employees and the students of the University, alike. In order to activate the EOPs, the University has assumed several situations and circumstances that will make it easier for all the stakeholders to effectively implement and execute the plan in their best interests.  

Fixed Expressions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Fixed Expressions - Essay Example Rosamund Moon claims that "fixed expressions, especially highly colorful and metaphorical idioms and proverbs, are comparatively infrequent. They appear to be more frequent in spoken text than written; although to date there are few extensive studies of their actual distribution". Strassler assesses the "frequency of idioms, excluding phrasal verbs, in spoken discourse as around one per 4.5 minutes of conversation. A survey of 240 English proverbs finds that there are around 33 instances of proverbs per million words of OHPC"1. As a matter of fact the use of fixed expressions, which are not translated literally, but are perceived after comprehension, amplifies the aesthetic aspect of language. By means of idioms the information aspect of language is supplemented with a sensual-intuitive description of our world, our life. In order to make a clear analysis of any phenomenon it is very important first to consider its terminology. While Moon is using fixed expressions and idioms (FEIs) as a general term, there are others in use, in addition to broader uses of idiom. "Phraseological unit is used in some Slavonic and German linguistic traditions as a superordinate term for multi-word lexical items: see, for example, Glser (1984: 348). Similarly phraseme is sometimes used as a superordinate term outside Anglo-American traditions, for example Mel'cuk (1995). There are, however, other uses for both terms. For example, Vinogradov and Tschernischova restrict phraseological unit to more metaphorical items, and Amosova (1963) uses phraseme for multi-word items which are not pure idioms: see Klappenbach (1968: passini). Phraseological unit and phraseme can be identified with Lyons's phrasal lexeme (1977: 23)"2. Classifications of fixed expressions and idioms Rosamund Moon's classification Now let us consider different types of classifications of fixed expressions and idioms. Moon limits classification of forms of fixed expressions to simple categories such as: Metaphors: semantically marked (non-compositional). There are three types of metaphors: 1. Opaque metaphors (for example: bite the bullet, kick the bucket); 2. Transparent metaphors (for example: behind someone's back, pack one's bags); 3. Semi-transparent metaphors (for example: on an even keel, pecking order)3. Formulae, which are pragmatically marked. Moon considers three different types of formulae4: 1. Similes (as good as gold); 2. Simple formulae/sayings: compositional strings with a special discourse function (alive and well, a horse, a horse, my kingdom for a horse); 3. Metaphorical/literal proverbs: (you can't have your cake and eat it, enough is enough). Anomalous collocations, collocations that are lexico-grammatically marked, grammatically ill-formed, or restricted, or contain a word or use of a word that is unique to the combination5. Within anomalous collocations Moon distinguishes four types: 1. Phraseological collocations: semi-productive constructions, occurring in paradigms (in/into/out of action, on show/display); 2. Cranberry collocations: idiosyncratic lexical component - one or more words found only in that collocation (in retrospect, kith and kin); 3. Defective collocations: idiosyncratic meaning component (in effect, foot the bill); 4. Ill-formed collocations: (at all, by and large). Collocations: "compositional word co-occurrence of markedly high frequency6. There are

Oral Communication in Business Essay Example for Free

Oral Communication in Business Essay Business communication is done through various avenues including the written word (via Email, letters and reports), the face to face meeting and telephone conversations. It is particularly important when using speech to communicate with others, whether client or employee, that what you say is what you mean, both in tone of voice and words chosen. The most obvious reason to use the spoken word is to give information to another. How effectively this is done depends on imparting pertinent key points to the listener and giving him or her a clear idea of what the expected result should be. The client wants to know the status of his order and the employee wants to know the deadline to fill it. Oral communication can also be used to persuade or motive others to accomplish a specific task. By showing confidence through your tone of voice and using open-ended statements and questions, your listener is exhorted to action. This is particularly effective when speaking with employees regarding a change in the organization. Make sure they are aware of the benefits and ask them to relate how this will help them in their jobs. The way oral communication is approached can mean the difference between boring your listener to tears or actively engaging their thought processes. Failure to communicate well can be seen as inability to communicate well (Gabbin, 1996). Keeping your listeners entertained is one way to keep them listening. You do not have to memorize a joke of the day, but simply avoid droning on about numbers or statistics or other â€Å"dry† subjects. A company that holds annual employee rallies to boost morale should incorporate both the entertainment and motivation aspects of speech. Reviewing the company’s fiscal state of affairs and thanking employees for their contribution while causing them to think of further ways to improve the future bottom line would create an atmosphere of trust and good will. Motivate, entertain, and leave them looking forward to the next rally!

Examining Quality Control and Operation Management in Dell

Examining Quality Control and Operation Management in Dell Dell is one of the most successful and profitable computer corporations in history. It has been known for its innovative customer service and product custom configuration. As it continues to grow, it is faced with the challenge of how to maintain its customer relationships and inventory management, while continuing to meet the demands and requirements of its customers. This paper will examine how Dell implements enterprise-wide computing software, which profiles and targets its customers, as well as streamlines the flow of its products throughout the supply chain. Dells collaboration with other computer software companies has allowed it to become a leader in customer relationship management (CRM) and supply-chain management (SCM). These initiatives have resulted in net revenues of between $30 and $60 million over the last five years. Supply Chain Management is becoming more and more important for the success of todays business world. Dell has realized this trend from its very first step and has become one of the most successful PC companies in the world by putting emphasis on its supply chain, concentrating on its its build-to-order and direct sales strategies. Dell is still figting with quality control management problem. . The quality problem relates to low and high end servers, laptops, and desktop models. The regular check up by company indicate a high increase in the number of machines that need to be serviced by Dell in the field soon after the delivery, and also machines returned to Dell for replacement/repair. Introduction Dell Inc. is a multinational information technology corporation that develops, sells and supports computers and related products and services. The headquarters of dell are in Round Rock, Texas, United States.Dell has employed more than 90,500 people all over the world according to the survey in the current year[update]. Dell grew during the 1980s and 1990s and became the largest seller of PCs but this was not for a long time. At the end of 2009, it held the first position in computer sales, the company sold personal computers, servers, data storage devices, network switches, software, and computer peripherals. Dell also sells HDTVs, cameras, printers, MP3 players and other electronics built by other manufacturers. As of April 2010, Dell topped in computer sales leaving behind HP and Acer. In 2006, Fortune magazine ranked Dell as the 25th-largest company in the Fortune 500 list, 8th on its annual Top 20 list of the most-admired companies in the United States. In 2007, Dell ranked 34th durinf first few months an during last quarter it was ranked 8th on the equivalent lists for the year. In 2006 one of the top magazines identified Dell as one of 38 high-performance companies in the SP 500 that had consistently out-performed the market over the previous 15 years. On January 31, 2007, Kevin B. Rollins, CEO of the company since 2004, resigned as both CEO and as a director, and Michael Dell resumed his former role as CEO. Investors and many shareholders said that rollins due to poor performance of the company resigned his job. The company announced fourth time in same year that the company was fail to reach what the analyst estimated and the results were not upto the mark. In February 2007, Dell became the subject of formal investigations by the U.S. SEC and the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York. The company has not formally filed financial reports for either the third or fourth fiscal quarter of 2006, and several class-action lawsuits arrised based on there recent performance report. Dell Inc due to lack of financial disclosure was in a bad side but would normally subject the company to de-listing from the nasdaq and luckily exchange gave a waiver to dell to exchange was done on normal basis and rate. On March 1, 2007, downfall kept the company showing a quarterly report of gross sales of $14.4 billion, down 5% year-over-year, and net income of $687 million,down 33%.NASDAQ extended the companys deadline for filing financial statements to May 4. The computer industry includes computer software, computer hardware, as well as the production of computer components, assembly, logistics distribution, sales, marketing, and the provision of information technology services. Dell is in the business of manufacturing computers and servers. Its competitors are Hewlett Packard/Compaq, IBM, Apple, and Gateway(depending upon the country competitors may vary eg-gateway is not officialy available in india) The new trend in the computer industry is to become a virtual corporation and Dell is leading the way. According to Dedrick and Kraemer (2006), Dell is aiming to combine the cost advantages of horizontal specialization with close coordination of vertical integration. In the early 1990s, Dell shifted to new strategies and tried to distribute its products through retail outlets, later realizing how unprofitable this approach was. It decided to focus on improving customer service and support by allowing customers to place and custom configure orders directly. This resulted in a unique strategy-customization. Nearly one out of five standards-based computer systems sold in the world today is a Dell. Dell has one simple concept: to sell computer systems directly to customers. Dells customers are global wide and range from individuals, small businesses, large businesses, and institutional organizations, such as schools and hospitals. The mission statement for Dell is to be the most successful computer company in the world at delivering the best customer experience (htttp:\www.dell.com). Since Dell is a global wide company, its direct approach is relevant across product lines, regions and customer segments (http://www.dell.com). Michael Dell started Dell in 1984, he had limited cash and purchased most of the supplies needed to build his first computers after the sales were made. Well-established computer manufacturers like IBM had a lock on the computer market, where customers preferred to purchase products from retail outlets. This new idea of building-to-order and ordering over the phone was a major risk. The first obstacle was to create a need on part of the customer to desire the purchase of a customized computer. The second hurdle was having customers call a toll free number to order the product. Dell had to find a way to overcome these obstacles and then provide a service that would build a reputation for superior business to consumer efficiency. OPERATION MANAGEMENT Every business is managed through three major functions: finance, marketing, and operations management. Operations management (OM) is the business function that plans, organizes, coordinates, and controls the resources needed to produce a companys goods and services. Operations management is a management function. It involves managing people, equipment, technology, information, and many other resources. The role of operations management is to convert or transform a companys inputs into the finished goods or services. Inputs include human resources (such as workers and managers), facilities and processes (such as buildings and equipment), as well as materials, technology, and information. Proper management of the operations function has led to success for many companies. For example, in 1994 Dell Inc. was a second-tier computer maker that managed its operations similar to others in the industry. Then Dell implemented a new business model that completely changed the role of its operations function. Dell developed new and innovative ways of managing the operations function that have become one of the examples in todays world. These changes enabled Dell to provide rapid product delivery of customized products to customers at a lower cost, and thus become an industry leader. With historical development there are different concepts in operation management eg. total quality management supply chain management and inventry control management. Total Quality Management As customers demand never ending higher quality in their products and services, companies have been forced to focus on improving quality in order to remain in the business. Total quality management (TQM) is a philosophy, promulgated by quality gurus such as W. Edwards Deming, that passionately seeks to improve product quality by removing causes of product defects and making quality that speaks by itself.With TQM everyone in the company is responsible for quality. TQM was practiced by some companies in the 1970s and became a major part of the company in the 1990s. This is an area of operations management that no competitive company has been able to ignore. The importance of this movement is demonstrated by the number of companies joining the ranks of those achieving ISO 9000 certification. ISO 9000 is a set of quality standards developed for global manufacturers by the International Organizationfor Standardization (ISO) to control trade into the then-emerging European Economic Community (EEC). Today many companies require their suppliers to meet these standards as a condition for obtaining contracts. Supply Chain Management Supply chain management (SCM) involves managing the flow of materials and information from suppliers and buyers of raw materials all the way to the final customer. The objective is to have everyone in the chain work together to reduce cost and improve quality and service delivery. Supply chain management requires a team approach, with functions such as marketing, purchasing, operations, and engineering all working together. This approach has been shown to resulted in satisfyeing more customers, meaning that everyone in the chain profits. SCM has become possible with the development of information technology (IT) tools that enable joint planning and scheduling. The technologies allow supply chain execution and design collaboration, which enables companies to respond better and faster to changing market needs. Numerous companies, including Dell Computer, Wal-Mart, and Baxter Healthcare, have achieved world-class status by effectively managing their supply chains. In details we will talk about the strategy and management of dell here. Dell competetive advantages Dells Direct Business Model Commitment to Open Standards Order Velocity/Build to Order Supply Chain Optimisation Continuous Process Improvement Inventory control The term inventory means the value or amount of materials or resource on hand. It includes raw material, work-in-process, finished goods stores spares. Inventory Control is the process by which inventory is measured and regulated according to predetermined decisions such as economic lot size for order or production, safety stock, minimum level, maximum level, order level etc. Traditionally, the focus on inventory management has always been about not running out of finished goods. Manufacturers would always have more and more excessive amounts of raw materials, work in process, and finished goods with regard not for holding costs but only for protecting against a stock-out. If demand was higher than expected or a supplier missed a shipment, inventory would bail the manager out. As long as outbound shipments were satisfied, so were the operations managers. But there was a problem in this policy because holding costs and other practices were difficult to nagae due to low technology and managers ignore these. Holding costs can be defined as the annual costs that are incurred by holding onto inventory.The dollar amount for holding costs typically ranges between 20-40% of annual average inventories. For example, if a firm has average inventories of $1000, the firm would have an annual holding cost at least $200. Common factors that attract holding costs include opportunity costs, increased rent required for the space of the inventory, higher premiums to insure the inventoryand cost of absolute goods. Opportunity costs are the highest cost. For example, if a firm has an average inventory level resulting in $100 million worth of goods, the firm effectively has $100 million tied up in inventory. Assuming these funds are not being loaned to the firm (which immediately results in interest expenses), then these are funds that should be used in other investments. Objectives of Inventory Control To meet future demand due to variation in forecast figures and actual figures. To cover demand due to seasonal or cyclic variations. To meet the customer requirement timely, effectively, efficiently, smoothly and satisfactorily. To smoothen the production process. To provide help for intermediate several products on the same facility. To gain economy of production or purchase in lots. To reduce loss due to changes in prices of inventory items. To meet the time lag for transportation of goods. To meet the technological constraints of production/process. To balance various costs of inventory such as order cost or set up cost and inventory carrying cost To balance the stock out cost/opportunity cost due to loss of sales against the costs of inventory. To minimize losses due damage,robbing etc. To stabilize employment,resources and machine and human efforts. Benefits of Inventory Control Ensures an adequate supply of materials Minimizes inventory costs Facilitates purchasing economies Eliminates duplication during ordering Better utilization of available stocks Provides a check against the loss of materials Facilitates cost accounting activities Enables management in cost comparison Locates disposes inactive and expired store items Basis for financial statements which is reliable. Inventory control Dell Using todays technology, manufacturers and retailers are achieving inventory turns that are as important as the supply chains that produce them. Take for example Dell. Dell has achieved a system that at times leaves them with average inventories for long enough to last only three days. Instead of incurring holding costs, Dell doesnt order until the demand is in place. The system Dell has achieved is referred to as a Just In Time (JIT) system. JIT is designed to keep inventories as low as possible by producing only what is needed and when it is needed. The technology involved allows customers to place an order on Dells website and receive their computer within days and maximum of 1 month. Dells website is connected to their electronic data interchange (EDI) system which allows suppliers to see what parts Dell requires as soon as the customer orders the computer. The suppliers, who make multiple shipments to Dell daily, supply Dell with the parts they need when, and only when, they require them. Although the software is costly, for Dell, and some many other firms, the result is savings that give competitive advantage. However, JIT is an extremely difficult system to set up that requires years of practice and extremely cooperative suppliers to perfect. For many firms, this is not an option. In particular, this system is not designed for products that have a very large backorder cost. Backorder costs are the costs associated with failing to meet demand. Maybe the product is a commodity and the cost is nothing more than lost revenue, but maybe the backorder results in bad word of mouth that drives the cost even higher than the lost revenue. It is important for a firm to determine the approximate costs tied to backorders. When this is achieved, managers can compare holding costs to backorders in order to help determine what optimal inventory levels are. Unfortunately, backorder costs and holding costs arent the only variables involved with optimal inventory levels. Other costs such as ordering costs (costs associated with ordering. Includes paperwork, inventory counts, etc.) , supplier lead times (how long it takes between ordering and receiving materials), and supply lead time and demand variations are also important variables that cant be ignored. All of these variables can make optimal inventory levels very difficult for managers to determine. Today, software bus iness solutions help to both ease the workload and drive down costs (in particular, ordering costs). Dells Inventory Turnover Data   Year     Ã‚     Inventory Turnover     Ã‚     Ã‚     Weeks Inventory 1992     Ã‚     4.79     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚   10.856 1993     Ã‚     5.16     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚   10.078 1994     Ã‚     9.4     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚      5.532 1995     Ã‚     9.8     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚      5.306 1996     Ã‚     24.2     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚   2.149 1997     Ã‚     41.7     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚   1.247 1998     Ã‚     52.40     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚      0.992 1999     Ã‚     52.40     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚      0.992 2000     Ã‚     51.4     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚   1.012 2001     Ã‚     63.50     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     Ã‚     0.819   Key point to notice here is that Dell was carrying over 10 weeks worth of inventory in 1993. By 2001, Dell was carrying less than 1 weeks worth of inventory. This essentially means that inventory used to sit around for 11 weeks and now it sits around for less than 1 week. So what does this mean for Dell? computers lose 1 percent of their value per week. This isnt like the canned food industry where managers can let their supplies sit around for months before anyone comes and orders. Computers arent canned goods, and as Kevin Rollins of Dell says-.they are rot,the longer a computer sits around, the less it is worth.   Due to depreciation alone, in 1993 Dell was losing roughly 10% per computer because the computers were all ready to be sold but there was no order coming. In 2001, Dell was losing less than a percent. Based on holding costs alone, Dell reduced costs by nearly 9%.   Since 2001, Dell has continueed to lower inventory. Looking at their latest annual reports, days inventory has dropped by approximately a day.   Benefits of low inventory: Supply chain management A supply chain consists of all parties involved, directly or indirectly, in fulfilling a customer request. In other words, a supply chain (SC) includes all organizations that collaborate in order to produce and deliver a finished product to the final customer. An example of a simple, direct SC would be the one which contains one supplier, a distributor of the materials, the bakery and a customer. Supply chains can be different in size, how complex the relation is inbetween the members and distribution of physical presence. In the following figure two different types of channel relations can be seen: direct, where the SC consists of one supplier and one customer of an organisation, and extended, where apart from the above, a suppliers supplier, a customers customer, etc. are included. In general, supply chains are dynamic, and involve the flow of information, products and funds between different stages. Supply chain management has the objective to have the right products in the right quantities at the right time at minimum cost, a situation that would guarantee optimal service levels for the customer and optimal performance for the organizations as a whole and separately. So, SCM involves the management of flows between and among members of the supply chain in order to maximize total supply chain profitability, hence maximize the total value generated throughout the SC. while recognizing the existence and importance of the others an organization needs first to decide about its supply chain strategy and then decide and take required actions that will fulfill the customer demand. Dells Supply Chain Strategies The direct model refers to the fact that Dell does not use the retails channel, but sells its PCs directly to customers through its website, Dell.com, as Figure shows. This way the intermediary steps that may add time and cost are eliminated, and Dell is directly linked to its customers.this strategy look very simple but its very hard to adopt and manage such a policy,a very high qualified and experienced staff is required. Fig 1 fig 2 Indirect Distribution channel for PC industry Direct ditribution channel for PC industry(figure 1 as shown by dell) When Dell was a smaller company than it is now, before the development of powerful, industry-standard servers of the type that Dell manufactures, the Dell IT group ran its SCM database applications on large, expensive, proprietary servers based on the UNIX ® OS. However, as the company grew, servers lacking the necessary capacity had to be replaced with even larger, more powerful servers. And because the servers were not upto the mark and efficient, updating a single server often required shutting down entire systems. The increased performance of industry-standard DelPowerEdge servers, however, has enabled Dell IT to create cost-effective, highly scalable systems using Oracle Real Application Clusters (RAC) 10g. In fact, Dell sells directly to all its customers, from home-PC users to the worlds largest corporations. This way it creates a direct relationship with each individual customer, which turns out to be a great source of competitive advantage. As Michael Dell has stated, this direct relationship creates valuable information about the customer, thus Dell knows who the end users are, what they have bought from Dell and what their preferences are, a fact that allows Dell to offer add-on products and services, and stay, in general, closer to the customer. Quality control Recent data points indicate that on top of mounting corporate governance and sluggish growth issues, but dell may also be facing a problem of quality control. The quality problem relates to low end servers, laptops, and desktops, not the high-end server models. Channel checks indicate a noticeable increase in the number of machines that need to be serviced by Dell in the field shortly after delivery, and also units returned to Dell for replacement/repair. For the most part, Dell outsources assembly to offshore partners in Taiwan and China. It is not clear yet if the issues are caused by sloppy manufacturing or design flaws. We suspect the former, and will continue to check field data. In addition, Dell is struggling through early adoption of the Microsoft Vista operating system, and users may not be able to differentiate whether the problems they are having with new laptops stem from poor build quality, design issues, instability in the operating system or incompatibility in application components with Vista. Quality issues with Dell laptops are nothing new we routinely saw evidence of that last year. The rise of problems with low end servers and desktops is troubling and our checks indicate that it is costing Dell money and starting the downfall of its brand. The timing of this quality lapse could not be worse for management, considering the recent announcements about errors in accounting and financial controls. An executive of a system builder that often competes with Dell said he finds the company has been much less cost-competitive since Michael Dell has returned to the CEO position at the company, and that the PC maker is representing a certain amount of confusion in competing for business throughout this quarter. Cost issues and turmoil appear to be piling on to Dells quality issues from last year, when the company recalled 4.2 million notebook batteries due to fire hazards. For its part, though, Dell has said it has found its response to customers with quality or technical problems has improved. SWOT Analysis of Dell Computer Strengths Dells Direct Model approach of enables the company to offer direct relationships with customers such as corporate and institutional customers. Their strategic method also provides other forms of products and services such as internet and telephone purchasing, customized computer systems; phone and online technical support and next-day, on-site product service. This extensive range of products and services is definitely one of Dells strengths. Dell Computers award-winning customer service, industry-leading growth and consistently strong financial performance differentiate the company from competitors for the following reasons: Price for Performance Dell represents a very efficient procurement, manufacturing and distribution process allowing it to offer customers powerful and customized systems at competitive prices. Customization Each Dell system is built to order to meet each customers specifications.this is the only company till now which has been efficient in applyeing this strategy through the world.Under developed countries like india where people are not much in contact with internet,they are also aware of the companyz system of online oredering and customizing and almost 90 percent of the people are satisfied by this. Reliability, Service and Support Dells direct customer allows it to provide the most efficient customer service before and after the sale.the industry of computer is such that only a technical help person can fix the system and when dell provides with such a service of online omitting errors and toll free registering complaint and on the spot servicing ,this gives a customer a plus point then other companies. Latest Technology Dell is able to introduce the latest relevant technology compared to companies using the indirect distribution channels. Dell turns over inventory for an average of every six days, keeping inventory costs low. The companys application of the Internet to other parts of the business including procurement, customer support and relationship management is growing at a rate of 30 percent. The companys Web site received at least 25 million visits at more than 50 country-specific sites.the latest technology also carries effective attractions like customizing the outer looks like different variants of colours,the girls have different choice and boys have different.the company also earns more through this because the more you customize,the more a customer has to pay for it.now adays dell is also providing to make its own design on the outer screen . Weaknesses Dells biggest weakness is attracting the college student segment of the market. Dells sales revenue from educational institutions such as colleges only accounts for a mearly 5% of the total. Dells focus on the corporate and government institutional customers somehow affected its ability to form relationships with educational institutions. Since many students purchase their PCs through their schools, Dell is obviously not popular among the college market yet. Dell is not available in retail outlets, customers cannot go to retailers because Dell does not use distribution channels. Customers just cant buy Dell as simply as other brands because each product is custom-built according to their specifications and this might take days to finish.most of the times it happens that customer is unaware of the specifications of the the materials to be installed so according to him customizing the pc is a big headache and customer will go for simple buying. Dell weakness lies in their time of delivery also.normally 15 to 20 days are followed after the order have been placed.people requiring a urgent pc or youth exited about a new laptop or pc doesnt want to wait for these many days.it happens with us most of the times,whne we are in a mood to buy something we want that thing to be delivered as soon as possible.this is alos a major weakness of dell. Opportunities Computers according to customer demand and requirement and becoming more and more popular and also a necessity today. Customers are getting more and more educated about computers. The first time users may avoid dell but a second time usr will always prefer dell because now he or she is more known to the product,more aware about what he requires and also keen to use more and high performance technology. Desktops are now out of fashion and people are going for laptops because it is easy to carry and easy portable device.this is a major segment where company can focus and attain a reputed position. The internet is also playin a major role in dell sales and orders because dell is not available through outlets and now days people are more aware of the internet and its use.dell laptops and pc can be ordered with vast varieties of variants of each and every product where as in case of retail outlets the variety available is not so much. Threats This is such a industry or market where thousands of new products are launched each month because the it industry has well established and each and every technical person has an ability to develop a hardware or software.we can see each day a new and very innovative products are launched related to computer industry.dell has to keep an eye on new products that are alays being launched and also try to make new products so that company can maintain its reputation of an innovative company. The company also faces a big problem of producing product that are high in quality and low in price.when such a situation comes a company has to make every effort to make maximum sales and profit. One more problem or threat is price between companies are decreasing day by day and there is almost an equal price for the same product in two comapnies. Dells Direct selling attracts customers because it saves cost. Other companies are alsooffering computers at low costs, this could hurt the dell customer base and customers can shift to other pc companies. With almost identical prices, price difference is no longer an issue for a customer. They might choose other brands instead of waiting for Dells customized computers. The next threat is decrearing rate of computer industry and unluckily dell has the maximum share in this industry,suppose if the demand decreases the the competition will become more hard and company would have to work more harder and harder to maintain its position in the market Technology is advancing day by day.if on the one side its an opportunity for the industry,on the other side its also a threat for the industry because the computer industry is such an industry where an new technology or product doesnt need a much high investment and large firms face competiton when small companies introduce new and efficient products at much smaller price Technology dictates that the most up-to-date and fastest products are always the most popular. Dell has to always keep up with technological advancements to be able to compete. Porters five force model for dell- Threat of new entrants-moderate. Reasons- The capital required for investment is low for new companies. Differentiation in products is also low but brand name can be considered as an entry barrier. The economies of scale is also low. The government or legal barriers are also low or alomot nill(depending upon country to country) . Rivalry-high Reasons- There is a price war due to low margin. The continuing decrease in profit. High concentration of the market. Threat of substitutes-low Reasons- If we look at the survey evry 4 th person ahs a

The Debate Over the Origin of Modern Homo Sapiens Essay example -- Ant

The Debate Over the Origin of Modern Homo Sapiens There has been a great deal of heated debate for the last few decades about where modern Homo sapiens originated. From the battle grounds, two main theories emerged. One theory, labeled â€Å"Out-of-Africa† or â€Å"population replacement† explains that all modern Homo sapiens evolved from a common Homo erectus ancestor in Africa 100,000 years ago. The species began to spread and replace all other archaic human-like populations around 35,000 to 89,000 years ago. The rivaling opinion, entitled the â€Å"regional continuity† theory or â€Å"multiregional evolution† model refutes this theory and states modern humans evolved from various species of Homo erectus who interbred with others that lived in places such as Asia, Africa, and Europe. These scientists believe this theory would explain why there are differences among races around the world. As sound as the regional continuity theory appears, it seems to be slightly lacking in genetic support. It appears that most of the support of this theory depends on fossil record which is important information but not stable evidence. The Out-of-Africa theory relies on more than just fossil evidence but a combination of fossils and genetic studies. It is important to use this information as well as the fossil records because â€Å"various interpretations of the transition are possible if researchers concentrate on only fossil evidence, while the mtDNA studies more strongly support replacement†¦.the best approximation of the process still appears to be an African-based spread† (Nitecki and Nitecki, 1994). In a time where technology is becoming an integral part of society, it is easier to discover information that did not seem possible before. ... ...and Matthew Nitecki, eds. (1994). Origins of Anatomically Modern Humans. Plenum Press, New York. Noble, Ivan. (2001). Boost for ‘Out of Africa Theory [online]. BBC Available from: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/1323485.stm [Accessed 24 March 2001]. O’Hanlon, Larry. (2002). New Out-of-Africa Theory Unveiled [online]. News Brief Available from: http://dsc.discovery.com/news/briefs/20020225/eve.html [Accessed 1 April 2004]. Reuters. (2001). Scientists Challenge Evolution Theory [online]. ABC News Available from: http://abcnews.go.com/sections/scitech/DailyNews/evolution_ outofafrica010109.html [Accessed 24 March 2004]. Roach, John. (2002). Skull Fossil Challenges Out-of-Africa [online]. National Geographic News Available from: http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2002/07/0703_020704_georgianskull.html [Accessed 24 March 2004].

Knowledge Discovery in Databases: An Overview Essay -- Data Mining

Knowledge Discovery in Databases: An Overview Abstract In the past, the term Data Mining was, and still is, used to designate the activity of pulling useful information from databases. Now, this term is recognized to apply but to one activity in a very large process to extract knowledge from opaque databases. The overall process is known as Knowledge Discovery in Databases, (KDD). This process is comprised of many subprocesses which when linked together provide a firm foundation for knowledge acquisition from large databases. Many tools, techniques, and disciplines come together under the umbrella of KDD. Introduction Today, the topic of data mining has much interest in government, business, and research circles. With the growth of computer use within these areas has also come a greater desire to let the computers do the work that used to be done by humans. The problem, nowadays, is that the data that needs to be analyzed has become too large and cumbersome for one person or even teams of people to envision tackling without help from computers. These computers are no longer mere crunchers of numbers but now they find the patterns that the humans used to find. From this growth has arisen a vast body of knowledge concerned with this process of data analysis. As with much other information, the Internet is employed to make available the ever-growing body of information on this topic. Many general sources of information [a,b,c] are now online. These are updated and expanded upon almost a constant basis. The use of the Internet to disseminate and collect information is itself a consideration in this fi eld. The amount of information is expanding at such a rate that old methods of information disposal, such as paper journals and b... ...11) R. Lippman, "An Introduction to Computing with Neural Networks", IEEE ASSP Magazine: 4:2 (1987), pp.4-22. 12) C. Murphy, G. Koehler & H. Fogler, "Artifical Stupidity", The Journal of Portfolio Management: 23:2 (Winter 1997) pp.24-29. 13) J. Quinlan, "Induction of Decision Trees", Machine Learning: 1:1 (1986), pp.81-106. Hyperlinks a) http://www.cs.bham.ac.uk/~anp/TheDataMine.html b) http://www.gmd.de/ml-archive c) http://info.gte.com/~kdd/ d) http://info.gte.com/~kdd/corporate.html e) http://info.gte.com/~kdd/datasets.html f) http://info.gte.com/~kdd/siftware.html g) http://www.almaden.ibm.com/stss/ h) http://www.research.microsoft.com/research/datamine/ i) http://www-aig.jpl.nasa.gov/kdd95/ j) http://www-aig.jpl.nasa.gov/kdd96/ k) http://www.neuronet.ph.kcl.ac.uk/ l) http://www.ics.uci.edu/AI/ML/Machine-Learning.html