The Issue Of Gun Control Laws - 861 Words

The government has the responsibility to protect people. Currently, the gun violence has threatened the American public safety, people used gun to kill many people for their own interests. The United States constitution believes Americans have their own gun to protect themselves. Some people said guns will protect their life easily. Whether, America should have strict gun control laws or not bring about the debate in society. Gun issue is not only a big problem from United States, it’s also a big problem around the world. With more and more people buying guns, gun violence increases everywhere. â€Å" Guns are more lethal than more other method, people try† he adds â€Å" Americans own an estimated 300 million guns† (nytimes.com). As gun ownership increases, the arguments about gun control can be easily found online in America. â€Å"Over the past 25 years, Americans’ support for stricter gun control laws has been generally declining even as the number of mass shootings is on the rise. While some high-profile shootings have resulted in calls for increased restrictions, that support has proved fleeting thus far. Gun control is one of the most sharply divisive issues in the U.S. today†(Perez-Pena). America does not have strong gun control law, which cause many criminals to possess guns and commit crimes. â€Å" The vast majority of guns used in 15 recent mass shootings including at least two of the guns used in the San Bernardino attack, were bought legally and with a federal backgroundShow MoreRelatedThe Issue Of Gun Control Laws1407 Words   |  6 Pagesits path. There is no exact definition of mass shootings, but most sources believe it is when four or more people are shot in one location. Citizens in America are easily able to obtain a gun and the growing issue is whether this should change and stronger laws in place. Although citizens believe gun control laws take away second amendment and right to protect themselves, mass shootings are increasing yearly and action needs to happen to prevent the next attack. America’s at a high withRead MoreThe Issue Of Gun Control Laws1701 Words   |  7 PagesA gun has the capacity to convert a conflict into a serious crime. The power of a gun is vast. But it the power of the gun is appreciated in right hands. The effects of a gun can be cherished when it is used by right hands and with the right intention. The effects of the gun are condemned when it reaches in wrong hands. A gun can protect as well as end someone’s life. When it ends the life of a criminal, it is a sign of bravery but when it takes the lives of innocent people it is condemned. ThereforeRead MoreThe Issue Of Gun Control Laws1410 Words   |  6 Pagesto have and remain fight prepared. Regardless, this has remained a basic issue since decades. There have been a lot of senseless murders and killings around the United States. With better gun control laws in effect these killings and murders would not have been possible. The government, the states, and the peopl e all need to work together to come to a solution to prevent things like this in the future. Better gun control laws would mean less killings and murders happening around the world. Think ofRead MoreThe Issue Of Gun Control Laws1536 Words   |  7 Pagesright to bear arms. This Amendment, when written had no limitations or constraints, however there seems to be more laws than ever trying to govern or ban the carrying and even ownership of firearms as a whole. Many say that the reasons for the attempt of gun control laws are due to the safety of the public nevertheless if you look at the statistics themselves it shows that armed law bidding citizens stop more violent crime involving and not involving firearms if armed than the police department,Read MoreThe Issue Of Gun Control Laws852 Words   |  4 PagesIn about every nation, gun control has always been an issue of controversy. Gun control laws are quite different from country to country, each possessing different requirements, specifications, and ordinances, so on and so on. What will be examined are the specified gun control laws in three international countries, ranging from Canada, Australia, and Japan, as well as a comparison and contrast of the the similarities and unique differences toward American gun control laws and those in other countriesRead MoreThe Issue Of Gun Control Laws Essay1578 Words   |  7 Pages GUN CONTROL LAWS There is a need in this country for gun control laws as well as benefits for the citizenry who own them. With the current state of our society these days, owning a gun has become a necessity for some, if not all, household. I, myself, conform for every household having a gun. Although we have our police force always ready to rescue anyone in distress, every second matters when we are facing face to face with danger. Granted that the authorities are already underway, having somethingRead MoreThe Issue Of Gun Control Laws2761 Words   |  12 PagesOne of the most debated topics in the U.S. is about gun control laws. Constant dispute between citizens and the government shows that there are two sides; for or against control. Arguments, whether oral or written, point out various ways how it can either help or hurt our society here in the United States of America. Most people however agree by reinforcing these laws violates the citizen’s 2nd Amendment rights which states, â€Å"A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free StateRead MoreEssay about The Issue of Stricter Gun Control Laws1861 Words   |  8 PagesThe issue of stricter gun control laws is an on-going battle that continues to be debated at both the local and federal levels. Regardless of one’s viewpoint on the matter, this subject makes for a very passionate debate on both sides. At question is whether or not stricter laws and regulations help reduce the number of gun-related crimes. Obviously, the answers vary greatly depending on the strongly held viewpoint of the responders. Often, horrible gun-related crimes are committed by peopleRead Moregun control research essay1222 Words   |  5 Pagesarticle that studied gun control. â€Å"Stricter state gun laws associated with fewer gun deaths, study finds.† The article discussed gun control laws in states with stricter laws tend to have lower rates of gun related homicides, and a suicide (ProCon para. 1) Gun control in the United States is becoming a wide spread issue and is becoming a problem everywhere. Although I am living in a city with uprising crime that has been skyrocketing over the years, I wasn’t aware of this being an issue all over the UnitedRead MoreGun Control1724 Words   |  7 PagesEnglish 1302 5th march 2013 Sides of Crime Control Gun control laws have been surrounded by controversy since The Bill of Rights, including the Second amendment was passed in the congress. A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed, the founders wrote. Until recently there was considerable argument over just what the founders intended by their words. Did they mean to provide only for armed

Stone in My Pocket free essay sample

Lifeguards defy death on a daily basis. We plunge headfirst in to raging seas that would make an atheist pray to pull people out of the grasp of the waves. We go in with every intention of coming out alive, and having a breathing victim in hand. We don’t question or think, we act, we do, we save, we believe, we trust. We put ourselves at the mercy of fate and the ocean, and trust our lives in her fickle hands. We walk the tightrope between life and death every day. If anything, being an ocean lifeguard has taught me the fragility of life. In one moment, one wave, one loss of footing, I could be dead. I could join the mass of souls lost at sea. Every summer, the sea tries to take the lives of thousands, and as a lifeguard, it’s my job to take them back. We will write a custom essay sample on Stone in My Pocket or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Where the line between life and death lies has always been a question for me. Most ocean lifeguards are superstitious, myself included, wearing Jesus, Mary, or St. Christopher around our necks. I often find myself praying to St. Christopher when in a near death situation, and I often wonder if it’s really him stepping in between myself and fate, or if it is my own indomitable will that gets me out of those situations alive. I wonder how often I have crossed the line between life and death, but made it back again. I have lost track of how many lives I have saved at this point, but I know I have saved my own. From the first time I realized just how fragile life is, how evanescent it can be, how it can be taken away at a whim of the ocean, I have tried to live my life more fully. I have tried to savor every moment I am given, to truly indulge myself in being alive, because in an instant, it can all be gone. I still plunge headfirst into the raging seas though, St. Christopher about my neck, resting on my heart, keeping me safe. I still wonder where that line is too, the line between life and death, and I still wonder how often I cross it, and if there will be a time when I don’t make it back. But for now, that is the stone in my pocket, unyielding and cool.

The Effectiveness of Study Habits Essay Example

The Effectiveness of Study Habits Paper Students must know how to analyses the lesson and participate in their class or them to have knowledge. They need to have reference book like textbook, dictionary as well as the e-book but one of the problems that students face while studying is the ability to absorb the information in their minds, especially when to have a good academic performance Study Habits involves activities that require mental alertness, concentration, reflection and analysis. It also requires the ability to select and organize ideas or concepts to be studied. When the topic of study habits mentioned, the next question that is raised by those involved in the education of our young people is whether our students today o possess study habits. This is because it cannot be denied that generally, todays students do not seem to appreciate studying their lessons the way the idea is traditionally understood to mean a regular and consistent way of studying and fulfilling of school related tasks both at home and in school. (See, 1999) With regard to this problem, the researchers want to find out the effectiveness of the study habits developed among the freshmen students here in PUC. We will write a custom essay sample on The Effectiveness of Study Habits specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on The Effectiveness of Study Habits specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on The Effectiveness of Study Habits specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Background of the Study All educational organizations aim to develop its learners academic competence and facilitate to achieve the finest learning. It is always an achievement for schools to be able to deliver quality education. In the same manner, a teachers effectiveness can also be measured by how much a students a school has. Policies, curriculum, books and even the selection procedures of teachers and students are formulated with this in view. Total development is the greatest concern of every school. The concept of totality implies personal development of all areas such as intellectual, social, physical, spiritual and emotional aspect. (Canada, 2007) The child is the center of the teaching-learning process and the strongest inundation of developing the childs study habits usually starts in the elementary grade should be sensitive to the needs of pupils, their interest, likes and dislikes. They should be motivated so as to develop and be accustomed and correct study habits. A Study Habit is generally understood as a regular systematic effective way of doing related responsibilities and obligation. See (1999) in is study described study habits as a generic term which refers to the attitude, study materials, study techniques, study environment and actual study time that will described the study habits as a very good, good, fair or poor. Et al. Gonzales 2011) Student Involvement: A Developmental Theory for Higher Education (Alexander W. Satin) A student development theory based on student involvement is presented and described, and the implications for practice and research are discussed. Even a casual reading of the extensive literature on student development in higher education can create confusion and perplexity. One finds not only that the problems being studied are highly diverse but also that investigators who claim to be studying the same problem frequently do not look at the same variables or employ the same methodologies. And even when they are investigating the same variables, different investigators may use completely different terms to describe and discuss these variables. My own interest in articulating a theory of student development is partly practical?I would like to bring some order into the chaos of the literature?and partly self-protective. I and increasingly bewildered by the muddle of findings that have emerged from my own research in student development, research that I have been engaged in for more than 20 years. The theory of student involvement that I describe in this article appeals to me for several reasons. First, it is simple: I have not needed to draw a maze consisting of dozens of boxes interconnected by two-headed arrows to explain the basic elements of the theory to others. Second, the theory can explain most of the empirical knowledge about environmental influences on student development that researchers have gained over the years. Third, it is capable of embracing principles from such widely divergent sources as psychoanalysis and classical learning theory. Finally, this theory of student involvement can be used both by researchers to guide their investigation of student development and by college administrators and faculty to help them design more effective learning environments. The Cognitive Learning Theory Definition: Cognitive theory is a learning theory of psychology that attempts to explain human behavior by understanding the thought processes. The assumption is that humans are logical beings that make the choices that make the most sense to them. Information processing is a commonly used description of the mental process, comparing the human mind to a computer. Pure cognitive theory largely rejects behaviorism on the basis that behaviorism reduces complex human behavior to impel cause and effect. However, the trend in past decades has been towards merging the two into a comprehensive cognitive. This allows therapists to use techniques from both schools of thought to help clients achieve their goals. Social cognitive theory is a subset of cognitive theory. Primarily focused on the ways in advertising campaigns and peer pressure situations. It is also useful in the treatment of psychological disorders including phobias. The Cognitive Learning  Theory explains why the brain is the most incredible network of information processing and interpretation in the body as we learn things. This theory can be divided into two specific theories: the Social Cognitive Theory (ACTS), and the Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CAB). When we say the word learning, we usually mean to think using the brain. This basic concept of learning is the main viewpoint in the Cognitive Learning Theory (CLC). The theory has been used to explain mental processes as they are influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors, which eventually bring about learning in an individual. Cognitive Learning Theory implies that the different processes concerning learning can be explained by analyzing the mental processes first. It posits that with effective cognitive processes, learning is easier and new information can be stored in the memory for a long time. On the other hand, ineffective cognitive processes result to learning difficulties that can be seen anytime during the lifetime of an individual. Social Cognitive Theory In the Social Cognitive Theory, we are considering 3 variables: environmental factors (extrinsic) personal factors (intrinsic) behavioral factors These 3 variables in Social Cognitive Theory are said to be interrelated with each other, causing learning to occur. An individuals personal experience can converge tit the behavioral determinants and the environmental factors. Social Cognitive Theory Illustration (Pajamas, 2002) In the person-environment interaction, human beliefs, ideas and cognitive competencies are modified by external factors such as a supportive parent, stressful environment or a hot climate. In the person-behavior interaction, the cognitive processes of a person affect his behavior; likewise, performance of such behavior can modify the way he thinks. Lastly, the environment-behavior interaction, external factors can alter the way you display the behavior. Also, your behavior can affect and edify your environment. This model clearly implies that for effective and positive learning to occur an individual should have positive personal characteristics, exhibit appropriate behavior and stay in a supportive environment. In addition, Social Cognitive Theory states that new experiences are to be evaluated by the learner by means of analyzing his past experiences with the same determinants. Learning, therefore, is a result of a thorough evaluation of the present experience versus the past. Figure 1 Input Process Output Figure 1 shows the conceptual framework of the study. The input consist of the hurry (Student involvement and cognitive learning theory), used in the study. The demographic profile of the freshmen students were concerned such as: age, gender, religion, types of residency and types of school graduated for the process. The proponents gave questionnaires to float to the selected freshmen. They used statistical treatment and analyzed the data that gathered. For the output, the researchers are going to conduct a seminar entitled: Benefits of acquiring good study habits so that our respondents will gain knowledge and be benefited from this study. Statement of the Problem The Effectiveness of the Study Habits to the Freshmen students of PUC Academic year 2012-2013 What is the demographic profile of the students in terms of: Age Gender Religion Types of residency Types of school graduated What are the factors that affect the study habits of the freshmen of PUC? What are the effects of the study habits to the freshmen students of PUC? Scope and Limitation This study focused on the effectiveness of study habits in the Academic Performance of the Freshmen Students of PUC. The scope of this research is based on six different courses for the total of 498 freshmen students in the school year Assumption The Researchers conducted this study entitled: The Effectiveness of the Stud Habits to the Freshmen students of PUC Academic year 2012-2013, and come up on the following assumption: 1. The demographic profile such as age, gender, religion, types of residency, and types of school graduated affect the students study habit. 2. The factors affecting ones study habit are study environment, time management and different skills such as listening, speaking, reading, writing or note- taking. Significance of the Study This study would show the different kind of study habits that affects the academic performance of the students. This research will be beneficial for all freshmen students for them to realize the importance of having a good study habits and for them to value the education that they have. It will not only give information about Education, but it will also give them sort of knowledge and benefits of acquiring good study habits to achieve their high performance in school. For the students For them to have a future reference in making up their own thesis For the Professors They need to observe first in order for them to know whether they are having difficulties in it comes to studying. For them to know what strategy are they going to SE in order to eject that knowledge in the students. For the Parents. This study can serve as a guide for them in order to take their child in the right track of learning. Definition of Terms: Assignment- refers to conceptually task given by the subject teacher before the last period of the student in the learning center in the library or at home. Education- it is the process of acquiring knowledge, skills and attitudes that makes man do better and it is the right of an individual to attain progress in life. Effectiveness- means the capability of producing an effect. Any result of another action or circumstance. Habit- retains to an act, movement or pattern of behavior that through practice and training has become an easy manner of behaving without hesitancy or concentration. It is the way of living that has become learned. Habit in their totality makes up the characteristics of the individual as he/she appears to other people. Material tools- order to achieve their goals. PUP Q. C. it is the University along Commonwealth Eave. And wherein the study conducted. Academic Performance- it refers to academic grades of the students for the whole semesters as used in the study by getting all the final grades of all Freshmen Students. Study Habits- pertains operationally to habits into which the students accustom themselves, this are methods of approaches with the units of learning by ignoring abstraction, paying attention to specific material being studied and concentrating in the learning process. Review of Related Literature The related literature provided the proponents a substantial background on this study. On the other hand, the review of foreign and local studies provided the proponents with other findings, which could help in the analysis of the study. Foreign Literature 5 Bad Study Habits and Effective Solutions (Grace Fleming) Have you ever wondered how you can bomb a test after studying for hours? A poor test result after many hours of faithful studying is a real confidence buster! If this happens to you, its possible that your current study habits are failing you! But you can turn it around. The process of learning is still a little mysterious, but studies do show that the most effective process for studying involves highly active behavior over a period of time. In other words, to study effectively, you must read, draw, compare, memorize, and test yourself over time. The following study habits are least helpful when used alone. Taking linear notes Linear notes are lecture notes that students take when they attempt to write down every word of a lecture. Linear notes occur when a student tries to write every word a lecturer says in sequence, like writing a rambling essay with no paragraphs. You may be wondering: 1. How can it be bad to capture every word of a lecture? Its not bad to capture every word of a lecture, but it is bad to think youre studying effectively if you dont mess with your linear notes in some way. You must revisit your linear notes and make relationships from one section to another. You should draw arrows from one elated word or concept to another, and make a lot of notes and examples in the margins. Solution: To reinforce information and to make it sink in, you must also recreate all your class notes in another form. You have to revisit the information and put it all into a chart or shrinking outline. Right before every new lecture, you should review your notes from days past and predict the next days material. You should reflect and make relationships between key concepts before you sit down for a new lecture. You should prepare for your exams by creating a fill-in-the-blank test from your notes. 2. Are you guilty of highlighter abuse? Reckless highlighting is the root cause for many bad test grades! Bright colors on a page make a big visual impact, so it seems like a lot of good studying is oing on when you read and highlight. Highlighting does make important information stand out on a page, but that doesnt do you much good if you dont do something active with that information. Reading highlighted words again and again is not active enough. Solution: Use the information you highlight to create a practice exam. Put highlighted words onto flashcards and practice until you know every term and concept. Identify key concepts and use them to create practice essay questions. You should also develop a color-coded highlighting strategy. Highlight new words in one color and new concepts in another, for example. You could also highlight separate topics according to a color code for more impact. 3. Rewriting notes Students rewrite notes under the assumption that repetition is good for memorization. Repetition is valuable as a first step, but its not that effective all alone. You should rewrite your notes in the shrinking outline method, but follow up with self-testing methods. Solution: Switch class notes with a classmate and create a practice exam from his/her notes. Exchange practice exams to test each other. Repeat this process a few times until you are comfortable with the material. 4. Rereading the chapter Students are often encouraged to re-read a chapter on the night before an exam to reinforce what theyve learned. Rereading is a good tactic as a last step. Just like the other study habits mentioned above, rereading is only one part of a puzzle. Solution: Make sure to use active steps like charts, shrinking outlines, and practice tests and follow up with rereading your chapter 5. Memorizing definitions Students spend a lot of time using flashcards to memorize definitions. This is a good study method, as long as its a first step in the process of learning. As students progress through the grade levels, they are expected to progress in cognitive skills. Once youve exited middle school, you cant expect to do well on an exam by memorizing the definitions to terms. You must learn to memorize a definition and then define the significance of the new vocabulary terms you encounter. If youre in high school or college, you should be prepared to explain how terms are relevant in the subject, compare them to similar concepts, and explain why they matter at all. Heres a real life example: In middle school you might learn to memorize the definition of propaganda. In high school you might encounter this as a term, but youll need to memorize the definition and learn to recognize propaganda materials from World War II and other times. In college you should be able to define propaganda, come up with examples from the past and from today, and explain how propaganda has affected different societies at different times. Solution: Once you have memorized the definitions of your terms, give yourself a short essay practice test. Make sure you are able to define a term and or someone of similar significance. The act of testing and retesting yourself somehow makes the information stick. (10 Highly Effective Study Habits Noon M. Growl, Sys. D. ) Students grapple with many issues in their lives, and because of all of the competing things for your attention, its hard to concentrate on studying. And yet if youre in school, you have to do at least a little studying in order to progress from year to year. The key to effective studying isnt cramming or studying longer, but studying smarter. You can begin studying smarter with these ten proven and effective study habits. 1 . How you approach studying matters Too many people look at studying as a necessary task, not an enjoyment or opportunity to learn. Thats fine, but researchers have found that how you approach something matters almost as much as what you do. Being in the right mindset is important in order to study smarter. Sometimes you cant force yourself to be in the right mindset, and it is during such times you should simply avoid studying. If youre distracted by a relationship issue, an upcoming game, or finishing an important project, then studying is Just going to be an exercise in frustration. Come back to it when youre not focused or obsessed! By something else going on in your life. Way to help improve your study mindset: Aim to think positively when you study, and remind yourself of your skills and abilities. Avoid catastrophic thinking. Instead of thinking, Im a mess, Ill never have enough time to study for this exam, look at it like, l may be a little late to study as much as Id like, but since Im doing it now, Ill get most of it done. Avoid absolute thinking. Instead of thinking l always mess things up, the more objective view is, l didnt do so well that time, what can I do to improve? Avoid comparing ourselves with others, because you usually Just end up feeling bad about yourself. 2. Where you study is important A lot of people make the mistake of studying in a place that really isnt conducive to concentrating. A place with a lot of distractions makes for a poor study area. If you try and study in your dorm room, for instance, you may find the computer, TV, or a roommate more interesting than the reading material youre trying to digest. The library, a nook in a student lounge or study hall, or a quiet coffee house is good places to check out. Make sure to choose the quiet areas in these places, not the loud, central gathering areas. Investigate multiple places on-campus and off-campus; dont Just pick the first one your find as good enough for your needs and habits. Finding an ideal study place is important, because its one you can reliably count on for the next few years. 3. Bring everything you need, nothing you dont Unfortunately, when you find an ideal place to study, sometimes people bring things they dont need. For instance, while it may seem ideal to type notes into a computer to refer back to later, computers are a powerful distraction for many people because Web, and answering emails are all wonderful distractions that have nothing to do with studying. So ask yourself whether you really need a computer to take notes, or whether you can make do with the old-fashioned paper and pen or pencil.   Dont forget the things you need to study for the class, exam or paper youre focusing on for the study session. Nothing is more time-consuming and wasteful than having to run back and forth regularly because you forget an important book, paper, or some other resource you need to be successful. If you study best with your favorite music playing, make sure your pod is with you. 4. Outline and rewrite your notes Most people find that keeping to a standard outline format helps them boil information down to its most basic components. People find that connecting similar concepts together makes it easier to remember when the exam comes around. The important thing to remember in writing outlines is that an outline only words as a learning tool when it is in your own words and structure. Every person is unique in how they put similar information together (called chucking by cognitive psychologists). So while youre welcomed to copy other peoples notes or outlines, make sure you translate those notes and outlines into your own words and concepts. Failing to do this is what often causes many students to stumble in remembering important items. It may also be helpful to use as many senses as possible when studying, because information is retained more readily in people when other senses are involved. Thats why writing notes works in the first place it puts information into words and terms you understand. Mouthing the words out loud while you copy the notes before an important exam can be one method for involving yet another sense. 5. Use memory games (mnemonic devices) Memory games, or mnemonic devices, are methods for remembering pieces of information using a simple association of common words. Most often people string gather words to form a nonsense sentence that is easy to remember. The first letter of each word can then be used to stand for something else the piece of information youre trying to remember. The most common mnemonic device example is Every Good Boy Deserves Fun. Putting the first letters of every word together GIBED gives a music student the five notes for treble clef. The key to such memory devices is the new phrase or sentence you come up with has to be more memorable and easier to remember than the terms or information youre trying to learn. These dont work or everyone, so if they dont work for you, dont use them. Mnemonic devices are helpful because you use more of your brain to remember visual and active images than you do to remember Just a list of items. Using more of your brain means better memory. 6. Practice by yourself or with friends The old age adage, practice makes perfect, is true. You can practice by yourself by testing yourself with either practice exams, past quizzes, or flash cards (depending what kind of course it is and whats available).

The Environmental Impact of Slash and Burn Agriculture

The Environmental Impact of Slash and Burn Agriculture Slash and burn agriculture- also known as swidden or shifting agriculture- is a traditional method of tending domesticated crops that involves the rotation of several plots of land in a planting cycle. The farmer plants crops in a field for one or two seasons  and then lets the field lie fallow for several seasons. In the meantime, the farmer shifts to a field that has lain fallow for several years  and removes the vegetation by cutting it down and burning it- hence the name slash and burn. The ash from the burned vegetation adds another layer of nutrients to the soil, and that, along with the time resting, allows the soil to regenerate. The Best Conditions for Slash and Burn Agriculture Slash and burn agriculture  works best in low-intensity  farming situations when the farmer has plenty of land that he or she can afford to let lay fallow, and it works best when crops are rotated to assist in restoring the nutrients. It has also been documented in societies where people maintain a very broad diversity of food generation; that is, where people also hunt game, fish, and gather wild foods. Environmental Effects of Slash and Burn Since the 1970s or so, swidden agriculture has been described as both a bad practice, resulting in the progressive destruction of natural forests, and an excellent practice, as a refined method of forest preservation and guardianship. A recent study conducted on historical swidden agriculture in Indonesia (Henley 2011) documented the historical attitudes of scholars towards slash and burn and then tested the assumptions based on more than a century of slash and burn agriculture. Henley discovered that the reality is that swidden agriculture can add to deforestation of regions  if the maturing age of the removed trees is much longer than the fallow period used by the swidden agriculturalists. For example, if a swidden rotation is between 5 and 8 years, and the rainforest trees have a 200-700 year cultivation cycle, then slash and burn represents one of what may be several elements resulting in deforestation. Slash and burn is a useful technique in some environments, but not in all. A  special issue of Human Ecology  suggests that the creation of global markets is pushing farmers to replace their swidden plots with permanent fields. Alternatively, when farmers have access to off-farm income, swidden agriculture is maintained as a complement to food security (see Vliet et al. for a summary). Sources Blakeslee DJ. 1993. Modeling the abandonment of the Central Plains: Radiocarbon dates and the origin of the Initial Coalescent. Memoir 27, Plains Anthropologist 38(145):199-214. Drucker P, and Fox JW. 1982. Swidden didn make all that midden: The search for ancient Mayan agronomies. Journal of Anthropological Research 38(2):179-183. Emanuelsson M, and Segerstrom U. 2002. Medieval slash-and-burn cultivation: Strategic or adapted land use in the Swedish mining district? Environment and History 8:173-196. Grave P, and Kealhofer L. 1999. Assessing bioturbation in archaeological sediments using soil morphology and phytolith analysis. Journal of Archaeological Science 26:1239-1248. Henley D. 2011. Swidden Farming as an Agent of Environmental Change: Ecological Myth and Historical Reality in Indonesia. Environment and History 17:525-554. Leach HM. 1999. Intensification in the Pacific: A critique of the archaeological criteria and their applications. Current Anthropology 40(3):311-339. Mertz, Ole. Swidden Change in Southeast Asia: Understanding Causes and Consequences. Human Ecology, Christine Padoch, Jefferson Fox, et al., Vol. 37, No. 3, JSTOR, June 2009. Nakai, Shinsuke. Analysis of Pig Consumption by Smallholders in a Hillside Swidden Agriculture Society of Northern Thailand. Human Ecology 37, ResearchGate, August 2009. Reyes-Garcà ­a, Victoria. Ethnobotanical Knowledge and Crop Diversity in Swidden Fields: A Study in a Native Amazonian Society. Vincent Vadez, Neus Martà ­ Sanz, Human Ecology 36, ResearchGate, August 2008. Scarry CM. 2008. Crop Husbandry Practices in North America’s Eastern Woodlands. In: Reitz EJ, Scudder SJ, and Scarry CM, editors. Case Studies in Environmental Archaeology: Springer New York. p 391-404.

Angolas Tourism Infrastructure Development Research Paper

Angolas Tourism Infrastructure Development - Research Paper Example There exist a relationship between infrastructure and the tourism development. Measures to gauge the level of economic growth are based on the infrastructure development and standards of living. The tourist inflow would depend on the efforts of any central government to invest in infrastructure. Angola being an emerging economy in Africa needs to invest majorly in the infrastructure in order to realize its full capacity. Stiff competition from the south and East of Africa poses major challenges towards the overall performance of the country as a tourist hub (Hottola, 2009).   In order to suggest models be used by Angola in improving infrastructure and promoting tourism, the current economic status will be examined. The research will be based on the African Development Bank statistic to gauge the amount allocated by the government in both infrastructure and tourism. The sources of funding towards this project will be important in projecting the future capacities. Mazivila (2014) data will be used as Macroeconomic Indicators where status, estimates and future projections. The stability of Angola compared to other SADC members will determine the future strengths and weaknesses while investing in infrastructure and expanding current capacity. Foreign investments will establish Angola’s Income and government’s alternative sources of revenue. Trading Economics (2014) will give an insight of Angola’s foreign direct investments since 2004.  Infrastructure being the major concern in the tourist industry, the research will focus on the time factor. This will include the period used to procure documents that will enhance infrastructure development (The World Bank, 2005). The time taken in this country will compare Angola to other countries with developed tourism infrastructure (World Travel & Tourism Council. 2012).

Economy of Finland Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 9000 words

Economy of Finland - Coursework Example This led to movements for independence and self assertion on the part of Finland as early as the First World War. In this regard, the relationship between the Soviet and Finland remained inconsistent, until Finland declared itself independent in 1912, following an upheaval by the Bolsheviks. This was a period when the Finnish German ties were looking up. Following Soviet aggression as well as expeditions in Finland in order to capture it, the Soviet began diplomatic negotiations with Finland in April, 1938. This was done basically to avert the possibility of a Finnish attack on Leningrad with the help of British or German backing. It was in this period that Soviet German ties were forged with the help of a non aggression pact in 1939. A similar non aggression pact had been signed between Finland and the Soviet in 1934, which was to be re affirmed after a decade. Yet, the hostilities began soon after with Ariel attacks, military expeditions as well as naval attacks between the two countries. While the fall of Soviet Communism was hailed by many as the beginning of good times, there are parallel theories that point towards the failure of democracy to take off completely. What must be considered here, is the emergence of the following in Finland after the fall of Communism: While not A Westward looking trend Conception of and Alliance with the European Union and NATO Parliamentary Democracy with the help of a constitution Stable market forces Globalization Privatisation of Banks Green Politics Emergence of global industrial players to make use of Social and Industrial Capital. This paper will discuss all these points in order to understand how Finland has grown and can continue to grow at an even higher growth rate in all areas - social, political and economic. Chapter 3 Change in Finnish Strategy Globalization While not so different from traditional villages in its desire to engage in a free exchange of ideas, the global village is one that thrives on the communication and transportation infrastructure that seems to be binding the world into one 'large, happy family'. This has been the foremost policy of Finland after Communism. What had started out as a speculation on the part of Marshall McLuhan in the 1960s, regarding the fact that the world was being transformed into a "global village" in the face of TV and new telecommunication technologies, has become a debate of much greater dimensions. His prediction has gone past mere "telecommunication technologies", to an arena where a new wave of digital technologies personified by the Internet and its offshoots, are proving to be as much a force for diversity as they are for similitude. While the spread of TV, radio and the telephone helped transform the third world countries to a great extent; a trend furthered by the advent of cell phones - the impact of the Internet has been

Change Management Plan to Reduce Medication Errors

Change Management Plan to Reduce Medication Errors Assignment 2 Change Management Plan: reducing medication errors by building a dual medication error reporting system with a ‘no fault, no blame’ culture Introduction Medication errors in hospitals are found to be the most common health-threatening mistakes made in Australia (Victoria Quality Council, n.d.). Adverse events caused by medication errors can affect patient care, leading to increased mortality rates, lengthy hospital stays and higher health costs (Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, 2012). Although it is absolutely impossible to eliminate all medication errors as human errors can occur, reporting errors is fundamental to error prevention. â€Å"Ramifications of errors can provide critical information to inform the modification or creation of policies and procedures for averting similar errors from harming future patients† (Hughes, 2008, p. 334). Thus, it highlights the importance of change management to provide a reporting system for effective error reporting. In this paper, the author is going to explore current incident-reporting systems and discuss the potential benefit of a dual medication-error reporting system, wit h a ‘no fault, no blame’ culture through a literature review, followed by a clear rationale for the necessity of a change management plan to be in place. Lippitt’s Seven Steps of Change theory will be demonstrated in detail with clear strategies suggested for assessing the plan outcomes. Finally, the main issues will be summarised with an insightful conclusion. Discussion Medicines are the most common treatment used in the Australian healthcare system, which can make great contributions in relieving symptoms and preventing or treating illness (Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, 2010). However, because medicines are so prevalently used, incidences of errors associated with the use of medicine are also high (Aronson, 2009). Over 770,000 people are harmed or die each year in hospital due to adverse drug events, which can cost up to 5.6 million dollars per year per hospital. Medication errors account for one out of 854 inpatient deaths and it is notable that the number of medication error-related death is higher than motor vehicle accidents, breast cancers and AIDS mortality (Hughes, 2008). Reporting enables a platform for errors to be documented and analysed to evaluate causes and create strategies to improve safety. A qualitative study (Victoria Quality Council, n.d) was conducted to survey the current medication error reporting systems in both metropolitan and rural hospitals in Victoria. Most hospitals prefer the report to be named as it allows follow-up of the incidents, whereas only a small proportion of hospitals use anonymous reporting to alleviate the barrier of reporting yet the correlation with actual errors has been low. In addition, a majority of hospitals acknowledged that near misses are supposed to be recorded but are rarely documented (). It is clear that errors and near misses are key to improve safety, so they should be reported regardless of whether an error resulted in patient harm. A near-miss error that has the potential to cause a serious event does not negate the fact that it was and still is an error. Reporting near misses is invaluable to reveal hidden danger. Hughes (2008) pointed out that the majority believes a mandatory, non-confidential incident report system could lead to and encourage lawsuits thus a reduced frequency of error reports resulted. A voluntary and confidential reporting system is preferred, which encourages the reporting of near misses and generates accurate error reports. However there is concern that with voluntary reporting, the true frequency of both errors and near misses could be much higher than what is actually reported (White, 2011). Thus, it can be concluded that a dual system combining both, mandatory and voluntary mechanisms might improve reporting. Although nurses should not be blamed or punished for medication errors, they are accountable for own actions. Therefore, reporting errors should not attribute blamed individuals but to ‘hold providers accountable for performance† and â€Å"provide information that leads to improved safety† (Hughes, 2008). Individuals and organisations attention needs to be drawn toward improving the error reporting system, which means to ‘ focus on a bad system more than bad people’ (Wachter, 2009). Reporting of errors should be encouraged by creating a ‘no fault no blame’ culture. Rationale: Medication errors can occur as a result of human mistakes or system errors. Every medication error can be associated with more than one error-producing condition, such as staff being busy, tired and engaging in mutule tasks (Cheragi, Manoocheri, Mohammadnejad Ehsani, 2013). Nurses are mostinvolvedat themedication administrationphase and are the last people involved in the drug delivery system. It becomes the nurses’ responsibility to double check prior to the administration of medication and to capture any potential drug error that might be made by the prescribing doctor or pharmacy. Whether the nurse is the source or an observer of a medication error, organisations rely on nurses as front-line staff to report medication errors (Hartnell, MacKinnon, Sketris, Fleming, 2012). When things go wrong, the most common initial reaction is to conceal the mistake. Not surprisingly, most errors are only reported when a patient is seriously harmed or when the error could not be easily covered up (Hughes, 2008). Reporting potentially harmful errors before harm is done, is as important as reporting the ones that harm patients. The barriers to error reporting can be attributed to the workplace culture of blame and punishment. Blaming someone does not change those contributing factors and a similar error is likely to reoccur. Adverse drug events caused by medication errors are costly, preventable and potentially avoidable (Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, 2009). Thus, it is essential that interventions to be implemented must ensure a competent and safe medication delivery system. To do so, change is needed; to adopt a dual medication error reporting system with a ‘no fault, no blame’ culture in Holmesglen Hospital. Change Management Plan: The Nursing role has evolved to match the ongoing growth of the Australian health-care delivery system. There is a trend for nurses to take responsibility for facilitating positive change in areas related to health (Steanncyk, Hancock Meadows, 2013). Nurses play the role of change agents which is vital for the effective provision of quality healthcare. There are many ways to implement changes in the work environment. Lippitt’s Seven Steps of Change theory is one of the approaches believed to be more useful as it incorporates a detailed, step by step plan of how to generate change (Mitchell, 2013). There are seven phases in the theory: Phase 1: The Change management plan begins at this phase to provide a detailed diagnosis of what the problem is. No matter what reporting procedures are in place, they may capture only a fraction of actual errors (Montesi Lechi, 2009). Reporting medication errors remain dependent on the nurses’ decision making, and the nurses may be hesitant or avoidant to report errors due to fear of consequences. A combination of mandatory and voluntaryreport system is suggested with a ‘no fault no blame’ approach to reduce cultural and psychological barrier (Hughes, 2008). Both statistical review and one to one informal interviews can help to identify areas that need attention and improvement. An open door policy and disclosure preferences for nurses who want to express their concerns, either to a nurse unit manager, a nurse in charge, a supervisor, a senior or a nurse representative or a colleague are all suitable. This approach can be effective in exploring and uncovering deep-seated emotions, motivations and attitudes when dealing with sensitive matters (). Statistical review, such as RiskMan reviews, is a useful tool to capture and classify medication errors (Riskman, 2011). Holmesglen hospital are conducting bi-monthly statistic reviews to gather information on the contributing factors of medication errors, by aiming to target system issues that could contribute to the error made by individuals, and make a change at organisational levels. For example, if medication errors are constantly caused by staff who are distracted or exhausted, staffing lev els and break times will be reviewed. Phase 2: At this stage, motivation and capacity to change are assessed. It involves small group activities such as staff meetings or medication in-services and all nursing staff are invited. Feedback can be given either directly (face to face) or in-directly (survey) and nursing staff knowledge, desire and skills necessary for the change as well as their attitude for change are assessed. Staff motivation can be reflected through rates of meeting attendance, number of submitted surveys, or number of staff who actively participated in the meeting discussion. Nurses who have good insight and are actively involved in the meeting are the ‘driving forces’ which will facilitate the process of change management; nurses who are hesitant or adverse to change are the resisting forces, in which force-field analysis can be used to counter this resistance (Mitchell, 2013). Force-field analysis is a framework for problem solving. For example, with the health budget crisis we face today in Australia, many hospitals and units may have financial restrains and are incapable of maintaining the flow of the change process. In the meetings, financial issues can be brought up at organisational levels that making change is necessary for both better patient outcomes and reducing unnecessary healthcare costs. Phase 3: With the motivation and capacity levels addressed, determining who the change agent is and whether the change agent has the ability to make a change. Change agents can be any enthusiastic person who has great interest, has a genuine desire and commitment to see positive change. Daisy is a full time associated nurse unit manager (ANUM) employed by Holmesglen hospital for some years. As she has a background of being a pharmacist, part of her role includes providing drug advice to nurses. During her weekly medication review, Daisy noticed that medication errors have been frequently occurring but there is little correlation with the actual reports submitted. Daisy decided to run in-service sessions and all nurses are invited to attend. Daisy discussed her change management plan with the nurse unit manager who also expressed interest and agreed to provide human resources and reasonable financial support. Another four ANUM also expressed interest and commitment. It has been arrang ed that two ANUM to attend the in-service at each time. Phase 4: The in-service is designed to be running for 6 months from September 15th 2014 to March 15th 2015 on monthly basis. Daisy will be holding the in-service and other ANUM will provide assistance in implementing the change plan. The in-service will consist of two parts and run for two hours. The first hour will be a review of the performance of the last month along with relevant statistics. The second hour will be self-reflection and discussion. All participants will be paid for attendance and encouraged to complete an anonymous survey monthly. Phase 5: Daisy is the leader of the change agents responsible for conducting in-services, collating information regarding medication safety, and summarising data with the assistance of ANUM. Meanwhile, Daisy and all the ANUM are the senior staff responsible for providing supervision and support to junior staff and other nurses. A monthly summary report of performance is submitted to the leader for review and monthly meetings are held among senior groups to review the effectiveness of the change management plan and adjust and modify the current plan if needed. Phase 6: A communication folder will be used to update nurses about past meetings. A drop box is available in the staff room for anonymous suggestion and complaints, which can only be accessed by Daisy and the other 4 ANUM. All suggestions and complaints will be responded with two weeks of submission in written form and available in the staff room for all staff to read in the feedback section in the communication folder. Phase 7: The change management plan will be evaluated at the end of the 6 month period the 30th of March 2015, to determine whether the change management plan has been effective. The evaluating process can be done through audit or feedback. The change agent will withdraw from the leader position after the final meeting but still work on the ward to provide ongoing consultation. The four ANUM will take over the role to ensure a good standard is maintained. The drop box will remain available for any further issues identified in the work place. Clear strategies for assessing the plan outcomes As previously mentioned, a final evaluation will be conducted after the final in-service utilising two main approaches to assess the plan outcome auditing and feedback. Auditing includes internal review and an external audit; feedback consists of nursing staff feedback and patients report. An internal review will be conducted four times through the following year. The ANUM are assigned to conduct the review. The Review includes comparing the medication charts with the incident reports to assess any correlation. For example, an omitted dose is considered a reportable mediation error and an incident report should exist correlatively. An external medication audit will be conducted by an external professional to provide a true and fair reflection of the situation (). It can occur annually, not only to assess the plan outcome, but to also monitor practices and identify areas for improvement. Frequency of auditing will depend on the rate of staff changing. However, every newly employed nurse will be given a printout to familiarise themselves with the change that has been made with an open-door policy encouraging queries. If significant non-compliance is identified in the auditing, it is suggested that the first phase of change management plan should be repeated to assess the necessity for modification of the current plan (Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, 2014a). The drop box will still be available for anyone who experiences or witnesses medication errors, or have a better suggestion to improve practice. Submission is anonymous and confidential. Only the ANUM have access. Public feedback will be given to complaints and suggestions in a timely manner and in the form of a printout for all staff to read. Patients can be a source of reporting medication errors as some of them know what their regular medications are. Also, new side effects experienced by patients can reflect the inappropriate use of medication. Conclusion-highlight main issues 250 Need to be completed Barriers to report errors must be breached to accomplish a safer medication administration system. Reporting medication errors and near misses through an established reporting system can provide opportunities to reduce similar errors in the further nursing practice and alleviate costs involved in such adverse events. Several factors are necessary in the change management plan: a leader that is motivated and committed to make a change; a reporting system that makes nursing staff feel safe;