Password Cracking System Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 6250 words

Password Cracking System - Research Paper Example Protecting an individual's data by restricting access to it can be done by means of placing a password entry request mechanism every time that particular data is accessed. There are however many means whereby which these passwords can be nullified. The Systems that enable the nullifying of passwords are referred to as "Password Cracking Mechanisms". This report is intended to throw a detailed light upon which password cracking mechanisms are and how they come into effect. Background The internet is an open medium which is accessible to just about anyone who logs on to it. While it has many benefits the internet is also not free of potential harmful activities. If personal information is left insecure and un attended on the internet there is a grave possibility that someone may alter it out of inquisitiveness or for the particular reason of harming information. It is in order to refrain from the altering of information that data is kept password protected. Data Integrity Data Integrit y is a fundamental concept that governs the transmitting of data and information from one point to another. One a broader scale it refers to the accuracy and consistency with which data traveling is made possible. Passwords, An Introduction Passwords are an inevitable part of the digital life that human beings lives nowadays. They are all around man. Every cell Phone holder needs them in order to authenticate himself to their personalized mobile phone. Even the broadband service providers need authentication from each user that connects to their Service stream. It is often required from users of passwords that they keep complex passwords that are unusual and difficult to guess so that they may not be guessed/hacked by unwanted internet users. One of the recommendation is also that multiple passwords are used to access websites and online services such as email and internet banking etcetera. Passwords are also used to secure computing systems and personalized files. Passwords pose to be safeguards of the security of an individual as long as they are not cracked. The reason that passwords are known to the concerned individual himself only passwords are thought to be secure. Problem with Passwords The problem with passwords is that individuals keep them such that they are either too easy to remember or too strong, so much so that they have to be written down. The simpler the passwords are, the easier and less time consuming it is to crack them. Research has shown that a password that is devoid of any punctuation marks and capital alphabets and is based on six characters takes around 'less than six seconds' to crack. This cracking duration changes to eight point five (8.5) days if the password is composed of alpha numeric characters. This is possible since al all small alphabet six digit password has the possibility of twenty six possibilities at each alphabet position for six times in the entire password. Similarly an alphanumeric password has the possibility of having 36 possibilities at each character position (since there are 26 alphabets and 10 numeric digits.) Since the common masses are unaware of the improvement in security just by the addition of a number as part of the password characters the percentage of people taking advantage of this edge in security are very few. A research conducted by iFusion Labs, suggests that around twenty percent of the digital technology users still keep very easily, simple and guess-able passwords- such as the names

Motivation to Pursue a Healthcare MBA program Essay Example for Free

Motivation to Pursue a Healthcare MBA program Essay Early in life, my family taught me the value of work, the importance of managing, respecting, gratifying the needs of the employees satisfactorily and the rigors of establishing and maintaining a business. For over 20 years, my family has owned and operated a chain of 11 convenient stores and other small businesses. Surrounded and influenced by the ups and downs of daily business life I developed the impetus to succeed in a business setting. With this business experience, the compilation of science courses taken throughout college and the experience gained in the industry, I am determined to further develop my stance on how I could be most valuable in the society; as a healthcare administrator or hospital CEO. Throughout the years I have acquired the basics of understanding the health care set up, but a Healthcare MBA from George Washington University is thus the master key to give me the knowledge and skills necessary to conscientiously and professionally execute the responsibilities of hospital CEO. During my time whilst at UNC, I was involved with the agency, Communities in Schools, whereby I offered to mentor and/or tutor high school students. A particular experience I cherish is when I helped a certain weak student, who had lost hope in school, to build confidence and motivation to study hard and pass his exams. The student is now attending college and attributes his success to my helping him discover his own potential. These endeavors have allowed me to assume the role of a mentor and an instructor, and have further taught me to become a communicative leader who can guide others in their development. Moreover, the sheer amount of pleasure I received from aiding the students in achieving their goals reflects my commitment to a career of service, which your program will steer me towards perfecting. I have perfected my abilities to work well under pressure with minimum supervision throughout the years; the necessary virtues of a good administrator. Perhaps even more important, throughout my experience, I have discovered the importance of sharing and accepting criticism. I understand how to deliver feedback without judging or discouraging others, and I use the advice of others to improve my own behavior. I admit that throughout my college education, my academic performance was sub-par; however, I attribute this to spending ample time participating in various non-academic activities. I was pushed to my limit as I was compelled to balance my time between studying and maintaining involvement in other aspects of my life that I am passionate, serving others and dancing. Although being an active person affected my scholastic performance, it was my involvement in those activities that stimulated my leadership potential, trained me to network with various agencies, and allowed me to give something small back to my community. It takes perseverance, drive and passion to rise above set-backs that we create for ourselves along the way and my long-term goal has served as the light at the end of the tunnel. My goal is simple: intellectual enrichment and to use my knowledge to help build a better society. The experience, knowledge and skills I have accumulated this far, put me in a position to successfully embark on new challenges. I want to pursue a higher degree because I know I have the potential to achieve academic success and thus redeem my undergraduate academic experience. It is my belief and conviction that a person is educated if they constantly strive to attain knowledge while simultaneously recognizing the usefulness of this knowledge towards society. Confident in my ability to adapt well and learn new techniques, I am ready to commit and follow the advice of my mentors; pursue a Healthcare MBA from George Washington University.

Important Role of Women in Homers Odyssey Essay example -- The Role o

   For the Greeks, Homer's Odyssey was much more than just an entertaining tale of gods, monsters, and men, it served as cultural paradigm from which every important role and relationship could be defined.   This book, much more so than its counter part The Iliad, gives an eclectic view of the Achean's peacetime civilization.   Through Odyssey, we gain an understanding of what is proper or improper in relationships between father and son, god and mortal, servant and master, guest and host, and--importantly--man and woman.   Women play a vital role in the movement of this narrative.   Unlike in The Iliad, where they are chiefly prizes to be won, bereft of identity, the women of Odyssey are unique in their personality, intentions, and relationship towards men.   Yet, despite the fact that no two women in this epic are alike, each--through her vices or virtues-- helps to delineate the role of the ideal woman.   Below, we will show the importance of Circe, Calypso, Nausicaa, Cly taemestra, and Penelope in terms of the movement of the narrative and in defining social roles for the Ancient Greeks. Before we delve into the traits of individual characters, it is important to understand certain assumptions about women that prevailed in the Homeric Age.   By modern standards, the Ancient Greeks would be considered a rabidly misogynistic culture.   Indeed, the notoriously sour Boetian playwright Hesiod-- who wrote about fifty years before Homer-- proclaimed "Zeus who thunders on high made women to be an evil to mortal men, with a nature to do evil (Theogony 600)."   While this view may have been extreme even for the Greeks, they were convinced of the physical and intellectual inferiority of women.   Thus, they believed that it was better for all--... ...ocial structure of a defunct culture that was just as complex, if not more complex, than our own.   It defined and sustained Greek society for hundreds of years; much like the Bible once did in Christian nations.   Yet, despite its archaic nature, The Odyssey remains fresh two and a half millennia after its conception.   Homer's world has woven the fantastic together with the ordinary in such a way that it will never fall apart.   In a significant sense, The Odyssey is immortal.    Works Cited: Fagles, Robert. The Odyssey.   New York, NY: Penguin Books, 1996. Katz, Marilyn.   Penelope's Renown. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1991 Hesiod.   "Theogony."   Perseus. Web. 24 Mar. 2015 http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus%3Atext%3A1999.01.0130 Morford, Mark.   Classical Mythology.   5th edition. White Plains, NY: Logman, 1995.    Important Role of Women in Homer's Odyssey Essay example -- The Role o    For the Greeks, Homer's Odyssey was much more than just an entertaining tale of gods, monsters, and men, it served as cultural paradigm from which every important role and relationship could be defined.   This book, much more so than its counter part The Iliad, gives an eclectic view of the Achean's peacetime civilization.   Through Odyssey, we gain an understanding of what is proper or improper in relationships between father and son, god and mortal, servant and master, guest and host, and--importantly--man and woman.   Women play a vital role in the movement of this narrative.   Unlike in The Iliad, where they are chiefly prizes to be won, bereft of identity, the women of Odyssey are unique in their personality, intentions, and relationship towards men.   Yet, despite the fact that no two women in this epic are alike, each--through her vices or virtues-- helps to delineate the role of the ideal woman.   Below, we will show the importance of Circe, Calypso, Nausicaa, Cly taemestra, and Penelope in terms of the movement of the narrative and in defining social roles for the Ancient Greeks. Before we delve into the traits of individual characters, it is important to understand certain assumptions about women that prevailed in the Homeric Age.   By modern standards, the Ancient Greeks would be considered a rabidly misogynistic culture.   Indeed, the notoriously sour Boetian playwright Hesiod-- who wrote about fifty years before Homer-- proclaimed "Zeus who thunders on high made women to be an evil to mortal men, with a nature to do evil (Theogony 600)."   While this view may have been extreme even for the Greeks, they were convinced of the physical and intellectual inferiority of women.   Thus, they believed that it was better for all--... ...ocial structure of a defunct culture that was just as complex, if not more complex, than our own.   It defined and sustained Greek society for hundreds of years; much like the Bible once did in Christian nations.   Yet, despite its archaic nature, The Odyssey remains fresh two and a half millennia after its conception.   Homer's world has woven the fantastic together with the ordinary in such a way that it will never fall apart.   In a significant sense, The Odyssey is immortal.    Works Cited: Fagles, Robert. The Odyssey.   New York, NY: Penguin Books, 1996. Katz, Marilyn.   Penelope's Renown. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1991 Hesiod.   "Theogony."   Perseus. Web. 24 Mar. 2015 http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus%3Atext%3A1999.01.0130 Morford, Mark.   Classical Mythology.   5th edition. White Plains, NY: Logman, 1995.   

Empiricism in Geography

For the purpose of this essay I will critically discuss aspects of empiricism and the empirical method and their use in geography. I will discuss these aspects with close reference to a recommended reading for our course by Ward et al (2007). Empiricism is a philosophical idea that experience, which is based on observation and experimentation, is the only source of knowledge. Empiricism believes that the mind is a blank canvas and all knowledge arrives in the mind through the portals that are the 5 senses. It believes that all that we as a race know about the world is what the world wishes to tell us.Empiricism states that only information garnered using ones senses should be decreed as credible when making a decision An essential characteristic of it is its commitment to the position that all knowledge is dependent on experience.. It is directly in opposition with the fundamental ideas and attitudes associated with another philosophical doctrine, Rationalism. Rationalism champions a ll knowledge which is gathered through reason as opposed to through the senses. Essentially Rationalism vs Empiricism is a battle of reason vs. experience.Empiricism has been largely discredited as a discipline in an academic Geographical context but is still widely used in both human and physical geography. The Empirical Method is defined as a method of using a collection of data to form the basis of a theory and essentially form a scientific conclusion. The word empirical means information gained by experience, observation, or  experiment. The central theme in  scientific method is that all evidence must be empirical which means it is based on evidence. There are two prominent men who are credited with the development of modern empiricism.Francis Bacon was termed the ‘father’ of empiricism. He deemed that the human mind gained their knowledge only through the senses and that the development of the ability to free the mind of all biases and consciences that could i nhibit the truth about certain things. This method was called inductive reasoning. Following Bacon’s death in 1626 other philosophers were free to elaborate on the groundwork he had laid down. One such influential figure was John Locke. Locke believed that from birth human beings are ignorant and all that we know is derived from experience.It was lock who coined the term synonymous with empiricism, ‘tabula rasa’ which basically means blank slate. The reading from Ward et al (2007) is entitled ‘Living and Working in Urban Class Communities’. It was compiled by Kevin Ward, Collete Fagan, Linda McDowell, Diane Perrins and Kath Ray. All the authors hold esteemed positions in prestigious third level institutes in the United Kingdom, among them the University of Manchester, the University of Oxford and the London School of Economics. This fact alone leads the reader to automatically assume that the reading is a credible piece of work.All but one author are in the geographical field. Collete Fagan is part of a school of Sociology and therefore she brings a social viewpoint to the table. The reading was completed fully in May 2006 making it 6 years old at present. It focuses on an area of Manchester, England called Sharston. Sharston is a smaller district of the larger Manchester region called Wythenshawe. Sharston is predominately what the reading terms a ‘disadvantaged’ area which suffers from social and economic deprivation. Most of the residents are involved in semi or unskilled work in the local area with low rates of pay.There are also low levels of home ownership in Wythenshawe and the levels of people who are on permanent sick leave and disability are above average. Also to add onto all of this four in ten people there have no formal qualification. The reading focuses on the way that low income mothers cope in Sharston as they perform paid and unpaid work while at the same time juggling to maintain the social repro duction of the household. Manchester is the 2nd most deprived local authority district according to the 2004 index.Wythenshawe, where Sharston is located is the most deprived region of Manchester. Therefore, it makes perfect sense that the authors would choose Wythenshawe as the basis for their study. The reading discusses the mass emergence of a working class in Sharston and how most families have to rely on either one and a half or 2 incomes to support themselves financially. A high proportion of women choose to maintain part time hours in employment so that they can be there for their children when they come home from school and begin their caring and nurturing duties within their home.In the study, it became clear that the majority of women are employed in one of the 5 c’s of employment: cashiering, caring, cleaning, clerical and catering. The researchers gathered their information through the process of 20 interviews with women from the area. These interviews took place in the women’s homes. The interviews were recorded transcribed and analysed. They asked the women to think of their past, present and future and most women were frustrated when they thought of their situation. Questions like here they lived and why they made the decisions they made were asked. The results of the interviews were all recorded in tables. There are six tables present in the paper. The tables were on the following: socio economic indicators of Sharston in comparison with the city region and nation, work performed by participants, summary of statistics of households in Wythenshawe, intergenerational mobility, paid work and the mix of unpaid and paid childcare. The results were illustrated on the paper in said tables. The tables were clear and easily legible, even to the untrained eye.Upon a quick scan of the figures presented on the tables it was easy to ascertain the direction in which the trend of the women’s answers and other numerical data was going. The re were clear links to what the authors outlined they were intending to research in the abstract at the beginning of the paper and to the data contained in the tables. They had spoken about how low income families who were mostly women had to live and depended on their jobs in order to just get by, along with being the primary carers of the children as well.The authors of this paper clearly use the empirical method throughout their research. Seeing as they all were college educated, their own personal experience of the problems faced by the women in Wythenshawe as regards low income struggles would be low. They would not have had any previous experience of the women in Wythenshawe’s lifestyle. They also collected data from the women and used this to back up their findings which were outlined in the text and represented in table format on the paper.However, that being said there is an area where this paper would not be on par with the empirical methods approach. As all of the compilers of this paper reside in the United Kingdom, they would have been aware of some of the answers they were going to receive from the women before they received them. In geography it is practically impossible to have completely empirical approach as they would have went in to this paper with some idea of what they were going to meet.The authors of this article had set out to examine and use statistics to illustrate the area of Wythenshawe in the context of it’s deprived state and the effect its underdeveloped facilities had on the female residents and their families. It set out to investigate the women’s attitudes to Wythenshawe, their home. So it is true to say that they authors had an idea of the response they were going to get and just used the material gathered as a means to statistically illustrate it through empirical methods.

Determining Operating Systems and Software Applications

Determining Operating Systems and Software Applications BIS/320 Amazon has made a business of selling a variety media types while also making the reselling of the same media an attractive option. What better way to regain in part what you spent on media interests than to resell it and have money to put towards the next interest. As of 2004 Amazon began running the Linux operating system across the board. Amazon then became one of the largest and well known companies running the Linux operating system.As one of the largest ecommerce centered businesses with a large global customer base with high expectations of constant expansion. Currently, it is known that Amazon is running Linux servers â€Å"Amazon's Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2), had close to half-a-million servers already running on a Red Hat Linux variant (Vaughn, 2012). † At this time â€Å"Amazon has never officially said what it's running as EC2's base operating system, it's generally accepted that it's a customized ve rsion of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). (Vaughn, 2012)† In addition Amazon uses Xen hypervisor as host to the Linux system for virtual machines.Solaris; OpenSolaris; FreeBSD and NetBSD and Windows 2003 and 2008 are additional virtual machine instances. The multiple operating services that Amazon is currently using assist with meeting the high demand of users that browse and purchase from their sites. In using their cloud technology, EC2, it is also possible that not all information will be stored at any specific location, but is easily accessible to anyone within the company to access it. With Linux gaining popularity this will ultimately become beneficial to Amazon in their continual global expansion goals.Hardware are electrical mechanisms that is physically connected to your computer such as an electronic components and related gadgetry that input, process, output, and store data according to instructions encoded in computer programs or software (Kroenke, 2012). The Amazo n-to-buyer operating system is quite simple and uses a variety of input and output in comparison with various office based business. A difference will be the amount that is actually used verses an output or input device. The individual consumer at home using their computer will initiate the process by registering as a user , followed by inputting heir shipping and billing information which will be stored by the website’s servers. The consumer’s computer is considered the input device and the server is a storage device. Once a purchase has occurred the website will use the stored information to input the customer’s credit card information into a card reader which automatically debits the funds from the customer’s account. Card readers and scanners are widely used input devices (Kroenke, 2012). Most output devices are located at various individual merchants that use Amazon to sell their goods. Each having a database that show pending orders inputted through Amazon.These merchants will use their printers to document the order and locate the desired merchandise. Once the merchandise is located, information is then sent to the shipping department. Versatile shipping options like UPS, Fed Ex, or the U. S. Postal service are available and output devices will print things such as the bill of lading; the inventory of the packaged goods and the shipping labels with the previously entered customer’s shipping information on it. Once delivered, the merchandise is scanned via another input device called a barcode scanner.This information is then relayed to the merchant who reports a successful delivery to Amazon. A confirmation email will be sent to the customer confirming their transaction is complete. If desired the consumer can give their input on the Amazon experience via their home based computer. Amazon’s Founder and Chiefy Executive Office outlines the companies business objectives as: Increase Sales, promote the brand, creat e a loyal customer base and fiscal strength. By expanding each operational goal its gives a better understand on how the operating systems contribute to Amazon’s objective.Sales can be defined as making sure the customer gets what he wants, but also feeding in to the psychology of impulse buying. Impulse purchases can be promoted through an application Amazon employs, called the Dash. When conducting a search for a particular item the results of that search offer not only the item itself, but also similar items. There is also a feature that shows the customer what other customers, who have order this particular item of interest, have also purchased. Promotional brand occurred during Amazon’s Kindle was launched.In 2005 Bezos believed that â€Å"every book ever written in any language will be available (to the enduser) in less than sixty seconds†. (Bezos, 2009). The edict issued that the demarcation between Kindle, the device and Kindle the service be seamless to the enduser. In the four years that followed, sales have exceeded budgetary expectations. The e-mail feedback from customers is strongly positive with 26% of customer e-mails containing the word â€Å"love†. Amazon has positioned itself prominently on search engine sites so a pattern match of only a few letters will bring Amazon to the forefront.Amazon itself has become a search engine of sorts, which many people use for pricing items being considered for purchase. The brand has made Amazon not only a shopping site, but also a reference guide for benchmarking other purchases. Bezos defines customer loyalty as encouraging his staff to be â€Å"obsessed over our customers†. The computer applications used for tracking purchases as well as shipping allows customer service representatives to assist dissatisfied customers and get them to a satisfactory result. References Kroenke, D. M. (2012). MIS Essentials (2nd ed. ). : Pearson Education Thorp J. Feb 99), The Information Paradox, Retrieved from http://www. amazon. com/Information-Paradox-Realizing-Business-Technology/dp Vaughn, S. (2012, March 16). Amazon's EC2 cloud is made up of almost half-a-million servers. ZDNet. Retrieved from http://www. zdnet. com/blog/open-source/amazon-ec2-cloud-is-made-up-of-almost-half-a-million-linux-servers/10620 | Operating Systems| Horizontal-Market Applications| Vertical-Market Applications| One-of-a-Kind Market Applications| Example| Linnux, Eucalyptus(cloud), OpenStack(cloud),EC2 and Red Hat Linux†¦ for starters| | | | Description of how it is used| | | | |Typical user| Amazon draws its users from anyone that can operate a computer and has an internet connection. | | | | Advantages| Easy to use; large amounts of information can be accessed without incorporating mass amounts of storage on a single server with cloud technology; accessibility to data from any location with cloud technology. | | | | Disadvantages| Even though Amazon continues to hire developers b andwidth is still and issue. People lose data. With such a broad base of people with the ability to browse and purchase products it poses a security issue regarding

Management Dissertation Proposal Proforma The WritePass Journal

Management Dissertation Proposal Proforma 1. Aims of the Dissertation: Management Dissertation Proposal Proforma ) Levin, D. M. (1988). The opening of vision: Nihilism and the postmodern situation.   London: Routledge. Mikkola, J. H. and Skjà ¸tt-Larsen, T. 2004. Supply-chain integration: implications for mass customization, modularization and postponement strategies. Production Planning Control; Jun2004, Vol. 15 Issue 4, p352-361 Saunders, M. Thornhill, A. and Lewis, P. 2007. Research Methods for Business Students. Harlow: Financial Times / Prentice Hall. Su, C. J. and Chuang, H. C. 2011. Toward Mass Customized Product Deployment in E-Commerce: The Modularization Function and Postponement Strategy. Journal of Organizational Computing Electronic Commerce; Jan-Mar2011, Vol. 21 Issue 1, p24-49 Wan, J. 2006. Postponement Strategy in Supply Chain Management. University of Cambridge. ifm.eng.cam.ac.uk/mtms/events/documents/Johnny_Wan.pdf Accessed 15th April 2011. Yang, B. and Burns, N. 2003. Implications of postponement for the supply chain. International Journal of Production Research; 6/15/2003, Vol. 41 Issue 9, p2075-2090 Yang, B. Burns, N. D. and Backhouse, C. J. 2005. An empirical investigation into the barriers to postponement. International Journal of Production Research; 2005, Vol. 43, p991–1005. Yang, B. Yang, Y. and Wijngaard, J. 2007. Postponement: an inter-organizational perspective. International Journal of Production Research; 2/15/2007, Vol. 45 Issue 4, p971-988 Yin, R.K. (1994), Case Study Research – Design and Method, 2nd ed., Sage, Newbury Park, CA.

Emily Stowe essays

Emily Stowe essays Emily Stowe was the first Canadian woman to practice medicine in Canada. She encouraged many other women in Canada to go to school, and to study hard so they could be successful not only in medicine but in careers traditionally dominated by men. Many men put much effort into stopping women from having the career of their choice. Emily grew up in a community that accepted everyone as equals. Therefore giving her the attitude and the motivation to want a career and to fight for the equal right of Canadian women. From being born into a community that accepted women as equals, to being the first female school principal, to opening the world of medicine to women, Emily never stopped trying to make the world a better place for everyone. Emily Howard Jennings was born on May 1, 1831 to the parents of Hannah and Solomon Jennings. Emily was the eldest of six girls. The Jennings lived in a small rural community called Norwich, in Oxford County, which is about one hundred and fifty kilometers southwest of Toronto. It was in this small community that Emily and her sisters grew up and developed the strong beliefs and morals that were to be so important later on in Emily's life. Emily's parents became Methodists, but were originally Quakers. With Emily's parents both being Quakers, it had a very strong influence on Emily, because Quakers firmly believed a proper education was greatly important for everyone, including women. During Emily's childhood, she grew up learning that girls and boys were equally capable to carry out any task. To ensure that Emily and her sisters were to receive a good education, Emily's mother, Hannah Jennings, taught them herself. Emily's great Grandfather even opened Norwich's first schoo l in his own house. So Hannah knew how important a good education was in her family, that is why she decided to teach her children herself. By the age of fifteen, Emily had excelled to such a degree that she was teaching s...

Cal State Channel Islands Admissions, Acceptance Rate

Cal State Channel Islands Admissions, Acceptance Rate California State University-Channel Islands (CSUCI)  does not require scores from the SAT or ACT as part of their application. Students need to fill out an application for the California State University system, indicating which campuses they are applying to. Channel Islands has an acceptance rate of 78  percent. Students with grades above average and a number of extracurricular activities have an excellent chance of being accepted. Will You Get In? Calculate Your Chances of Getting In  with this free tool from Cappex Admissions Data (2017) Cal State Channel Islands Acceptance Rate: 78 percentCSUCI GPA, SAT and ACT Score GraphCompare Cal State SAT ScoresCompare Cal State ACT Scores CSUCI Description CSUCI, the California State University, Channel Islands, was founded in 2002 and is the youngest of the  23 universities in the Cal State system. The university is located in Camarillo, Northwest of Los Angeles. The university offers over 20 majors; business, social sciences and liberal arts are equally popular among undergraduates. CSUCI is proud of its interaction between students and faculty, and the curriculum emphasizes experiential and service learning. The school currently has the second lowest enrollment of the Cal State campuses, but significant growth is projected in the coming decades. Enrollment (2017) Total Enrollment: 7,455  (7,054 undergraduates)Gender Breakdown: 38 percent male / 64 percent female83 percent full-time Costs (2017 - 18) Tuition and Fees: $6,817 (in-state); $18,697 (out-of-state)Books: $1,948 (why so much?)Room and Board: $16,954Other Expenses: $2,902Total Cost: $28,621 (in-state); $40,501 (out-of-state) CSUCI Financial Aid (2016- 17) Percentage of Students Receiving Aid: 81 percentPercentage of Students Receiving Types of AidGrants: 72 percentLoans: 47 percentAverage Amount of Aid​Grants: $8,747Loans: $5,742 Academic Programs Most Popular Majors:  Art, Biology, Business Administration, English, History, Liberal Arts and Sciences, Psychology, SociologyWhat major is right for you?  Sign up to take the free My Careers and Majors Quiz at Cappex. Transfer, Graduation and Retention Rates First Year Student Retention (full-time students): 79 percentTransfer Out Rate: 7 percent4-Year Graduation Rate: 26 percent6-Year Graduation Rate: 59 percent If You Like Cal State Channel Islands, You May Also Like These Schools University of California - Santa Cruz: Profile | GPA-SAT-ACT GraphOccidental College: Profile | GPA-SAT-ACT GraphUniversity of the Pacific: Profile | GPA-SAT-ACT GraphWestmont College: Profile | GPA-SAT-ACT GraphBiola University: Profile  California Lutheran University: Profile  Menlo College: Profile  Scripps College: Profile | GPA-SAT-ACT Graph Admissions Profiles for Other Cal State Campuses Bakersfield  | Channel Islands  | Chico  | Dominquez Hills  | East Bay  | Fresno State  | Fullerton  | Humboldt  | Long Beach  | Los Angeles  | Maritime  | Monterey Bay  | Northridge  | Pomona (Cal Poly)  | Sacramento  | San Bernardino  | San Diego  | San Francisco  | San Jose  | San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly)  | San Marcos  | Sonoma State  | Stanislaus More California Public University Information SAT Score Comparison for Cal State SchoolsACT Score Comparison for Cal State SchoolsThe University of California SystemSAT Score Comparison for the UC SystemACT Score Comparison for the UC System Data Source: National Center for Education Statistics

Philosophical Underpinnings - Supply Chain Management Essay

Philosophical Underpinnings - Supply Chain Management - Essay Example The methods of obtaining data will encompass both the qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection and analysis. Open and closed ended questionnaires will be used in this analysis. The pragmatic consideration will use both aspects. Philosophical claims emanating from the pragmatic consideration and its critique is a major factor that will affect the use of the theories. Ontology to be considered, epistemology and axiology are also important to this research study. Body Several philosophical underpinning research methods can be contained in the research in the supply management efficiency. These methods are considered depending on the extent by which their usefulness will be relevant to the nature of study to be carried out. Ontology is carried out to determine the alternative options available and to be considered. ‘Ontology is a term that refers the list or options that can be considered either in a scientific or philosophical study’ (Williamson, 1993) . The supply chain is the route the product or service goes through from the supplier to the consumer. In some cases this chain is as short as directly from the manufacturer to the consumer but, sometimes it goes through several distributors e.g. retailers before it gets to the consumer. The supply chain is also affected by several factors. ... These research methods apply to the supply chain in different occasions and instances depending on what the researcher is looking at. ‘Epistemology is a method used in analysing data which heavily relies on the type of data obtained during the research. It is popular in the social sciences. Epistemology is a metacognitive learning process assumed in our beliefs but validate other perspectives.’ (Mezirow,1990). The epistemological process is central to critical thinking, it has an effect on race, ideologies power, influence, cosmology, gender and class may be affected. This is when the rationality is in a manner that the issues contained are solved by way of reason (Everline, 1899). There is revolution in the principles of epistemological revolution, and, the sound of reason is usually considered. Studying of cases that had once occurred in trying to deduce the reasons behind their occurrence is also critical in social science. These provide the actual effect of the varia bles on the samples under research (Valentine, 2005). The results from case study get use in solving other problems of similar cases. Open discussion forum in data collection can be useful when the manufacturer is trying to come up with a new product. This method analyses what is required in the market (Lilian, 2006). It helps the manufacturer to tailor the output according to the user needs. Paradigm ‘Paradigm has been used over the centuries to refer to a set of practices that define a scientific discipline at any given time. It is a term that does not have a precise philosophical meaning, but applied in community research to provide solutions to problems’ (Ashley, 2000). Paragmatic consideration entails what is to be scrutinized from

European Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

European Business - Essay Example also contains all the required components to get share from this huge market. It can also expand outside the EU. The major benefit of single market is reduction in border costs. They are similar to import tariffs, because they also raise the price of exports in the foreign market. A decrease in border costs has a great and positive effect on integrating regions as a tariff reduction. It helps in trade creation and trade diversion and changes in the terms of trade. It also affects the incentives to invest. Reduction in border costs produces a strong competition on the home market and a better competitive position on the foreign market. It also increase the cost of production for exports and their reduction simultaneously improves home country firms position on foreign markets and exposes them to more intense competition at home. These are some general benefits that can facilitate any business looking to expand in the EU market. But for doing specific planning it would be appropriate to undertake a general quantitative analysis of the social-economic functioning of the market, carry out a quantitative survey, undertake a qualitative analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the market. These three steps will help in formulating strategy to specific areas of the business. For doing this analysis it is appropriate to have a detailed data on following aspects. Once the reliable data i... 6. Prices can be easily compared because of Euro. 7. Reduction in non tariff barriers 8. Adoption of the Common External Tariff 9. No threat of fluctuating exchange rates thanks to Euro. These are some general benefits that can facilitate any business looking to expand in the EU market. But for doing specific planning it would be appropriate to undertake a general quantitative analysis of the social-economic functioning of the market, carry out a quantitative survey, undertake a qualitative analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the market. These three steps will help in formulating strategy to specific areas of the business. For doing this analysis it is appropriate to have a detailed data on following aspects. The socio-economic role of the market in the EU context. Balance and healthy competition between the market competitors. The market role in promoting local production. Possible internal and external partners in accomplishing this strategy. Once the reliable data is available about above said areas. It would be easy for planners to formulate strategy for the expansion of Company in EU single market and beyond. Besides the benefits of single market there may be some threats or hurdles that may cause problems. It is important to consider these threats before implementing the expansion strategy. These hurdles may be: Lack of knowledge about the demands of market Lack of coordination between the trading parties Cultural or traditional differences Purchasing power and price factor of different market within EU or outside EU After going through all these preliminaries reliable information can be gathered. This data will be greatly helpful in adopting a correct course of action. Once the planning and data collection phase is completed. It is time for taking

Price Elasticity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Price Elasticity - Essay Example This is because a sophisticated machine such as a CD needs proper parts to function accurately. Much is dependant on the installment of proper parts into a CD and unless each of them lives up to industry standards the end product (i.e. the CD) will not be permitted to be released in the market. Given the significance of the raw materials therefore no CD company can possibly compromise on them just in order to bring their prices down. Cheaper parts, most know, may bring down prices but ultimately prove a nightmare for consumers. Software corruption and malfunction can result of a simple cut down on budget. Since most CD companies are reluctant to take such risk and thereby ruin their reputation amongst buyers they (usually) stick to being safe than sorry and thereby choose to use the more expensive parts if they have to. (Lamb, 2004) Given how dependant the CD industry is on both the supply of building materials as well as the demand of the consumers we find that the price elasticity of both demand and supply is rather high on the CD industry. All private markets generate what are called 'externalities' or 'spillovers'. Such externalities include any sort of charge or benefit that the price of the merchandise or services sold by the market does not include.

Creating a Strong Monarchy System during the Reign of Henry IV Essay

Creating a Strong Monarchy System during the Reign of Henry IV - Essay Example With France shattered with these fights, Henry IV was determined to end the enmity that characterized the country of France, create more freedom for religious movements, halt the war between various religious groups and enhance the power of the government. To achieve these goals, Henry IV embarked on a series of strategic actions that allowed him to achieve significant success in these areas, and despite his assassination, people will still remember him for his outstanding successes. As  the King of France, Henry IV realized the importance of building an administrative center, which he did in Paris by initiating radical changes (Ranum 87). This was to become Henry’s official residence and a center for government businesses could be carried. For instance, issues such as tax collection could be translated into the Palace des Vosges in Paris. The construction of the palace in the 17th century was also a vital achievement to Henry IV who was keen in establishing a strong monarch y government controlled the people of France in many aspects of their lives (Hsia 164). This palace, which became a model for other city centers, signified his power.When Henry IV came into power, he became interested in making peace with the church by creating more freedom for the Protestants. Faced with this task, Henry was quick to note that creating more freedoms to the religious groups like Protestants could make him more popular than he was, at least before the Protestants. To achieve this goal, Henry IV issued the Edict of Nantes in 1958 (Melton 201). This edict provided freedom to the Huguenots who had fewer religious liberties. For a long time, the Catholic crown found itself at a collision course with France’s Huguenots who felt that their privileges were being denied. However, Henry IV was quick to call for a lasting solution that would make the Huguenots end their rebellions. Therefore, Henry IV promulgated the Edict of Nantes, which gave the Huguenots religious t olerance in France. Because of Henry IV’s role, people started to respect the religious liberty of other people across French society.

Effects of Parent Involvement in Inner City School Term Paper

Effects of Parent Involvement in Inner City School - Term Paper Example This essay dclares that active parent involvement for parents is an ongoing participatory process in which a caregiver or a parent in the progress of their children. The demonstration of this progressive involvement may be through the discussion of school events, assisting in homework assignments, attending various school functions, and helping out in classroom activities when required. Another aspect of parent involvement is the attribute of parent serving as full and not partial partners in the education of their children by being part of the decision making process in their respective schools. However, not many public schools have the capacity to influence parent involvement as experiences and resources tend to vary hence this becomes the role of district schools. This paper stresses that A lot of misconception exists on whether parents or guardians have the ability to engage effectively in the activities of children in a district school. The problems lie in how parents can heighten their involvement in child activities rather than the perceived notion that parents do not intend to participate in child learning in schools. According to Education.com, one of the reasons that influence parents to have minimal involvement in schools is the fact that many of the parents residing in inner city schools have minimal spare time because of their strict work schedules. Many parents may view parent involvement as a privilege to their school-going children while in the real sense it is a mandatory requirement under the law. As per the No Child Left Behind Act in Section 1118, parents have the responsibility of committing themselves to the parental involvement policy present in many inner city schools. Additionally, the section also emphasizes on the need for inner city schools to develop structures that would foresee the effective implementation of the provisions under the parents’ policy in these schools. The section also asserts the relevance of adopting the Title I policy in any public school funded publicly that

HR Manager Interview in the Health Care Field Essay

HR Manager Interview in the Health Care Field - Essay Example This importance has however not been entirely appreciated as evidence from around the world points to a scenario where doctors or clinicians are left to manage healthcare facilities especially in developing countries where the need to professionalize human resource management is just beginning to dawn (Hongoro & McPacke, 2004). Due to the importance of human resource in the quality of healthcare provision, there is a clear need to study the state of human resource management in the healthcare sector. An appraisal of human resource management in health care can best be undertaken through an interview of a practicing health care human resource manager. This way, the background of health care human resource management, management styles, its roles and responsibilities, challenges faced and emerging issues can be discerned and a conclusion reached on human resource management in health care. ... According to this manager, the position requires qualified personnel who understand all the tenets of human resource management from conducting job analyses, drafting job descriptions, reward management and compensation among other duties and responsibilities that do necessitate specialized and professional expertise. The human resource manager pointed that a typical background for human resource management is thus interdisciplinary; demonstrating adeptness gained from social sciences, business administration and behavioral background. Good interpersonal skills are also necessary further demonstrating the need for a professionally trained human resource manager. Human Resource Management Styles in Healthcare The management style adopted in any organization or department is crucial for achievement of success in terms of meeting organizational or departmental goals. The style of management in place depends to a large extent on the resources available, knowledge, people skills and the d esired results. Human Resource Management (2011) identifies three styles of management; participatory, directing and teamwork style. The participatory style of leadership involves managers delegating duties to employees and requires a workforce that clearly understands their job roles. The directive style is a top-down approach to management which is especially important in cases where deadlines have to be met. Teamwork involves pooling of knowledge at ones disposal in a give-and-take cooperative manner. All these styles have their strengths and flaws and it is the responsibility of a manger to select the most effective. From the interview, the healthcare human resource

Effects of Parent Involvement in Inner City School Term Paper

Effects of Parent Involvement in Inner City School - Term Paper Example This essay dclares that active parent involvement for parents is an ongoing participatory process in which a caregiver or a parent in the progress of their children. The demonstration of this progressive involvement may be through the discussion of school events, assisting in homework assignments, attending various school functions, and helping out in classroom activities when required. Another aspect of parent involvement is the attribute of parent serving as full and not partial partners in the education of their children by being part of the decision making process in their respective schools. However, not many public schools have the capacity to influence parent involvement as experiences and resources tend to vary hence this becomes the role of district schools. This paper stresses that A lot of misconception exists on whether parents or guardians have the ability to engage effectively in the activities of children in a district school. The problems lie in how parents can heighten their involvement in child activities rather than the perceived notion that parents do not intend to participate in child learning in schools. According to Education.com, one of the reasons that influence parents to have minimal involvement in schools is the fact that many of the parents residing in inner city schools have minimal spare time because of their strict work schedules. Many parents may view parent involvement as a privilege to their school-going children while in the real sense it is a mandatory requirement under the law. As per the No Child Left Behind Act in Section 1118, parents have the responsibility of committing themselves to the parental involvement policy present in many inner city schools. Additionally, the section also emphasizes on the need for inner city schools to develop structures that would foresee the effective implementation of the provisions under the parents’ policy in these schools. The section also asserts the relevance of adopting the Title I policy in any public school funded publicly that

Education Systems Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Education Systems - Essay Example But over the years, it seems the geo-political circumstances have taken its toll on the education sector in Ethiopia. A study carried out UNICEF points out that the net primary schools enrollment for male students in Ethiopia during the period 2000-2007 was around 74 percent, while for females this percentage was 69 percent. The study indicates that the enthusiasm shown by parents could not be sustained for long, as the net secondary school enrollment percentage drops down to 29 percent while for female students this figures comes down to just 19 percent (UNICEF, 2008). This indicates towards a fundamental issue of sustaining the interest of the masses in sending their kids for higher education. This indicates towards a need for allocation of still better resources towards the education sector in the country. Amongst other things, the political climate and the war like situation with bordering Eritrea is also responsible for eating into the resources of the country and thus resulting into the adverse humanitarian situation prevailing in the country. International agencies like UNICEF have indeed done commendable work for addressing the needs of general population. For example, the international agency has earmarked US$3,800,000 for the education sector in Ethiopia for the current year (UNICEF, 2009). Ghana, an integral component o... International agencies like UNICEF have indeed done commendable work for addressing the needs of general population. For example, the international agency has earmarked US$3,800,000 for the education sector in Ethiopia for the current year (UNICEF, 2009). Ghana, an integral component of the Gold Coast, is historically known for its rich resources. But, over the years situation has changed to a great extent. In the 1950's it was known as a country with highest level of education in the entire Sub-Saharan Africa2. But the latest statistics point out that the dropout rate of youth while migrating from primary to secondary schools is substantially higher. The UNICEF statistics3 point out that during the period 2000-2007 the enrollment of male in primary schools was 73 percent and for females this figure was 71. But this figure sharply drops down to 47 percent and 43 percent respectively as the students march towards secondary schools education. Despite having a tuition free and mandatory primary and junior secondary school education in Ghana the enrollment in schools can certainly not be termed as satisfactory. Ghana has made a constitutional provision under article 39, which mandates the tenets of free, compulsory, universal basic educat ion (FCUBE) initiative4. Ghana has been getting international attention as well in support of the forward looking policies of the government. Aid from international organizations and foreign governments is helping Ghana in strengthening its educational system. Availability of resources certainly impacts the shaping of the overall picture of educational system. Ethiopia and Ghana are not the one's having best of resources but the respective governments need to accord more priority to

King Henry V and King Richard III Essay Example for Free

King Henry V and King Richard III Essay Henry V and Richard III depicted how two very different men rose to power and assumed the throne of England. Henry was an intelligent, driven young man who sought to reconstruct the civil war ravaged kingdom after the death of his father. Shakespeare presented Richard as a corrupt, sadistic villain who cared nothing for the English people except that they knew and feared his absolute authority. Both men, though, possessed the same focus and determination, which made the comparison and contrast of these two plays that much more drastic. When Henry V came to power, he knew he was responsible for gaining the trust and respect of both the English court and the common man. In order to end wars within the country and regain political stability, Henry decided to lay claim to his land in France. In response to this, the French prince Dauphin snubbed Henry, which launched him into action. With the support of the English people behind him, Henry gathered his troops and planned to invade France. Henry did away with those who plotted against him and his mission and set sail for France. With his tremendous resolve and leadership, the English victoriously fought their way through France despite terrible odds. The English forces were urged to remain focused on the task at hand, and all those who disgraced the kingdom were severely punished. Looting, spying and the like all resulted in death at Henrys command. With the same dedication, however, he took into consideration the concerns of the common soldier and in prayer he gained the power to fulfill his leadership responsibilities and rally his troops. After the English forces defeated the French at the Battle of Agincourt, while outnumbered five-to-one, the opposition finally surrendered. Henry was able to secure peace negotiations and meanwhile married Catherine, the daughter of the French king. Thus, Henry had successfully united two kingdoms. The reign of King Richard III differed greatly. In order to reach the throne,  he secretly plotted to usurp the kingship from his brother Edward and, likewise, to destroy anyone else who posed a threat. Shakespeare described Richard as evil and manipulative, but also brilliant, cunning, and persistent. He was born physically deformed and as a result was very bitter toward those around him, and greatly resented their normalcy and happiness. This hatred translated into tremendous drive and served as motivation as well as justification for most everything he did. Richard began his journey to the throne by marrying a noblewoman, Lady Anne, simply for political reasons. He then took every opportunity that arose to speed Edwards illness and death, including the execution of another brother solely to cause grief and clear the path to the title. When Edward finally died, Richard was temporarily rewarded control of the kingdom until Edwards sons were of age to rule. Richard then searched out and executed those noblemen who had remained loyal to the princes, along with the boys powerful relatives on their mothers side. The heirs and Queen Elizabeth, their mother, were left unprotected and vulnerable. After Richard campaigned and all but assumed his role as king, the boys were murdered. The people of England already despised Richard and feared his tyrannical rule. When Richard found himself without support and facing a possible challenger to the throne, he decided to murder his wife in order to marry his niece Elizabeth. This marriage to Edwards daughter would cement his position as king. Queen Elizabeth, however, had sided with the French challenger, Richmond, and had secretly given him her daughters hand in marriage. When Richmond and his forces invaded England, Richard was killed, just as he had been warned in dreams the night before by the ghosts of all those he had murdered. Richmond was the crowned King Henry VII and vowed peace in the restless kingdom. Both Henry V and Richard III possessed the determination to reach the throne and rule England. Henry introduced himself to the kingdom as a relenting force, in power to protect and provide for the common man. He took his role very seriously and thus became a hero in his kingdom, while instilling fear in the hearts of the opposition. Richard, though, saw his dreams crumble before him as he selfishly and insanely used all those around him as a sort of tool for his acquisition of power. England as a whole rejected him as a leader, and saw no promise for the kingdom under the reign of a power-hungry tyrant. Henry sought to rebuild and England and bring back to it prosperity, and therefore gained the love and respect of the English people. Richard cared only to tend to his own selfish interests and was, as a result, overthrown by his enemies. The fate of there two men seemed to have been determined by what motivated them and with which characteristics they utilized in ruling the kingdom of England.

Developing the Literate Child

Developing the Literate Child Introduction ‘Early-years educators relate what is being taught to what children  already know. In order to extend each child’s learning they support  and guide children through each new stage of learning. They know  that the abilities and attitudes that young children develop in the  early years are an important part of a life-long journey during which  children will need to acquire all the language skills necessary to  interpret, manipulate, control and organize language for their own  present and future purposes.’ (Browne 1996, vii) The above quote neatly summarises the need to ensure that young children’s language development is fostered in the best possible way by educators. What children learn now can have a life-long impact upon how they interact with the world in future. It is the child’s teacher, who has the capacity to greatly influence how a child acquires and uses language, to assess what the child already knows, and to use this knowledge to foster and guide the child through, ‘each new stage of learning,’ (Browne 1996, vii). It was with this clear intention in mind, with which the following study was undertaken. The aim, to assess one child’s current speaking and listening, reading and writing skills, to analyse any observations carefully, and to use the information gathered as a basis for planning the child’s future learning needs. The child chosen, a female, was aged 5 years and 9 months at the time of the study and does not have any recognised special educati onal needs. She will, henceforth, be referred to as, ‘Child A,’ for the remainder of the report. Reading Analysis Listening to Child A read on a one-to-one basis was extremely informative. She is starting to use some expression in her voice, and is attempting to make the text sound more like natural language, however, she has little sense of phrase boundaries, and consequently, can often sound stilted. She regularly has to decode words on a word-by-word basis, but is not always successful in her attempts, meaning that the language does not flow. There were frequent extended pauses during the reading of each sentence. On a number of occasions Child A was unable to decode a word but had a limited number of alternative strategies available to her, in order to help her to continue reading. The miscue analyses showed that Child A’s average negative miscue rate was 8.06% for the books chosen from her particular reading ‘stage’. It is recommended that when matching a book to a reader the negative miscue rate should lie somewhere between 3% and 8%, with a miscue rate of 10% representing frustration level, (Moon et al. 1994, 116).This evidence may suggest that the text was too difficult for Child A, resulting in a negative effect on her confidence and interest. Graham and Kelly propound that, ‘Surprising insights into children’s reading can emerge in the one-to-one conversations which you have with them,’ (Graham and Kelly 1997, 115). I talked at length with Child A and we discussed her reading habits and attitudes towards books. It quickly became obvious that Child A loves books in many forms. She confided that she often imagines that she is the princess in the stories which are read to her. Child A likes to look at the pictures in books and tell her own stories from these, but feels unable to read the words alone. It became clear that Child A has access to many books at home, and Mum and Dad evidently read a lot. She delighted in recounting her first experience of visiting a library, which occurred recently, and she was given ample time to choose a book to take home. Child A proudly confided that she knew the book by heart as she had read it that often. It was evident that Child A, not only enjoys reading, but also see s herself as a good reader. Observation of Child A during several guided reading sessions with her class teacher, presented a different picture. Child A frequently became easily distracted, and failed to focus on the text which was in front of her. She appeared to be restless and anxious to move off onto different activities. Child A was confident when attempting to read a word she thought she knew, however, when she came across an unfamiliar word she would not attempt to read it. With prompting she would begin to ‘sound’ a word out, but often gave up before completing the word. Again, Child A seems over reliant on picture cues and was attempting to tell the story from the pictures. She remained unfocused throughout each guided reading session and while other children were turning the pages of their books, Child A sat with her book shut. She was unable to participate in the group discussion concerning the book and was unable to relate the main points of the story to the teacher when asked. Child A was also observed during shared whole-class reading sessions. While she did not openly volunteer answers to the questions asked, she did respond once the class teacher asked her a direct question. In consideration of the above evidence, and in conjunction with the level descriptors provided by the National Curriculum (www.nc.uk.net), it is possible to suggest that Child A is working at Level One in terms of her reading: ‘Pupils recognise familiar words in simple texts. They use their  knowledge of letters and sound-symbol relationships in order to  read words and to establish meaning when reading aloud. In these   activities they sometimes require support. They express their   response to poems, stories and non-fiction by identifying aspects   they like.’ (www.nc.uk.net) However, it is clear that Child A meets only part of this level descriptor, as she is not yet using her phonic knowledge to read words, and to use the words to comprehend the story. Implications for Teaching and Learning: Reading It is clear from the evidence given above that Child A is not a confident of fluent reader. She is working in the early stages of National Curriculum level 1, and will need specific support if she is to begin to work in the later stages of the level, and indeed to start to work towards National Curriculum level 2. The problems with Child A’s use of expression and lack of awareness of phrase boundaries, could perhaps be addressed by adults modelling the reading process. Graham and Kelly suggest that this is a viable way of first introducing a book to a child, before they are given the opportunity to read the book for themselves, (Graham and Kelly 1997, 105). This could give Child A the confidence she needs and will expose her to the way books should be read, using lots of expression. It will also aid her awareness of phrase boundaries, particularly if the adult traces the text with their finger as they read and makes exaggerated pauses when full stops or commas are encountered. Child A’s reluctance to join in group and class discussion about books could be a result of a lack of confidence in her own abilities, or perhaps she is unsure of how to respond correctly and does not want to ‘risk,’ getting it wrong. Again, one-one-one reading sessions could be an ideal way to address this problem. Graham and Kelly (1997) suggest that there should be a specific pattern to one-on-one reading sessions with young children, this pattern consists of five separate steps. ‘Warming up the text,’ allows children to look at the book chosen with an adult, handling it and making links with their own experiences, making them feel more comfortable before they begin reading (Graham and Kelly 1997, 105). ‘Reviewing the book,’ is also an important part of the confidence building process, and would allow Child A to give her opinion on the book without fear of failure, (Graham and Kelly 1997, 106). These strategies will hopefully help to b uild Child A’s self confidence and she should then eventually be able to give her opinions in shared and guided reading sessions. The miscue analyses also indicated that the books from Child A’s ‘shelf,’ were perhaps too difficult for her, resulting in boredom and frustration, this could also have been the case during the guided reading sessions. Child A should be given books from a ‘lower shelf,’ to read in order to build up her self confidence. In addition to this, being placed with children of a similar, or slightly lower, ability for guided reading sessions could also have a positive impact. Speaking and Listening Analysis During whole-class, teacher-led activities Child A did not speak unless she was asked a direct question by the class teacher. On such occasions, Child A would sometimes respond accurately, at other times she would not respond at all. When the children were asked to respond to questions by raising their hands, Child A would not put up her hand. During such teaching sessions, Child A was often observed to be very restless, although she was keen to sit right at the front. The children were regularly asked to work with ‘talking partners,’ during the direct teaching, it was observed that Child A never responded to her partner in such situations, simply refusing to speak. During independent activities, Child A was observed to ignore other children on her table. Often her peers attempted to draw her into their activity or conversation, however, she did not respond to them in anyway, and indeed seemed to ignore them. Child A was also observed during ‘free-play,’ situations. Generally Child A would remain on her self-chosen task and did not initiate conversation with her peers. The exception to this being conflict situations, where Child A was extremely vocal in expressing her unhappiness to another child. When surrounded by other children, Child A still did not join in with their chatter. During free-play Child A would occasionally respond to a direct question from an adult observer, but at other times would attempt to ignore them. Occasionally Child A would address a direct comment to an adult observer, in relation to her self-generated task, but did not then become engaged in conversation. Play-times seemed to present a different view of Child A, in terms of her speaking and listening ability. She was observed on several occasions playing, with another girl from her class, a variety of different clapping and singing games. The two girls demonstrated different games to each other, and were evidently listening and responding to each other. ‘Pupils talk about matters of immediate interest. They listen to others  and usually respond appropriately. They convey simple meanings to  a range of listeners, speaking audibly, and begin to extend their ideas  or accounts by providing some detail.’ (www.nc.uk.net) This level descriptor indicates that, although Child A only meets part of the criteria for National Curriculum level 1, she is working at the lower end of this level. The observations made in the playground show that Child A is able, when the opportunity presents itself, to, ‘talk about matters of immediate interest,’ (www.nc.uk.net). Implications for Teaching and Learning: Speaking and Listening The evidence collected suggests that although Child A is confident when speaking to her peers at playtimes, she is not comfortable during class or group situations on and often prefers to remain silent. It is important to develop her ability to, ‘listen to others,’ and to, ‘respond appropriately,’ if Child A is to work towards National Curriculum level 2 for speaking and listening (www.nc.uk.net ). One of the key learning objectives for speaking and listening for children in Year One is, ‘to ask and answer questions, make relevant contributions, offer suggestions and take turns,’ (DFES 2003a, 24). The document Speaking, Listening, Learning: working with children in Key Stages 1 and 2 (DFES 2003a), offers some good suggestions for teaching towards this learning objective, and recommends a great deal of paired work, and teacher modelling of how to ask and answer questions. If Child A was able to observe adults modelling paired work, or some of her peers engaged in discussion work, she may start to feel sufficiently confident enough to join in herself. An additional strategy to help Child A during paired work, might be to try her with a variety of different partners to see if she responds better to a certain child. ‘All areas of the curriculum offer distinct opportunities for developing children’s speaking and listening,’ (DFES 2003b, 11) and consequently it may be possible to engage Child B more fully in speaking and listening activities when linked to a subject she enjoys. The use of paired discussion, could be better suited to a science lesson, for example, rather than confining such discussions to English lessons. Writing Analysis Several conversations with Child A led to the conclusion that she does perceive herself as a good writer. She enjoys writing for a purpose, she explained that she regularly writes lists and stories at home, giving them to her parents to read. It is clear from examining the writing samples, that while Child A is confidently identifying the initial and final phonemes in words, and writing these down, she appears to be having more difficulty with medial phonemes, as many of these are missing from the words she has written down. For example in Appendix III, the writing clearly shows that Child A has attempted to write the word, ‘wonderful,’ however she has clearly identified the sounds at the beginning and ends of the word, but the middle sounds have not been clearly audible to her, resulting in the word, ‘wunful.’ The three samples of Child A’s writing which were examined (see Appendices I, II and III), indicate that she is making phonetically plausible attempts at words as the writing can be clearly read without the aid of the child in most places. Child A does show an awareness of how to use full stops, although these are not consistently in the correct places. She does not yet seem aware that it is necessary to leave a clear space in between her words, and only does so in a couple of places. The evidence listed above, in conjunction with the writing samples contained within Appendices I, II, and III, indicate that Child A is working at National Curriculum level 1: ‘Pupils’ writing communicates meaning through simple words and  phrases. In their reading or their writing, pupils begin to show  awareness of how full stops are used. Letters are usually clearly  shaped and correctly oriented. (www.nc.uk.net ) It is clear from the above level descriptor, that although Child A is working at National Curriculum level 1, she does not meet all of the listed criteria and, therefore, should not be assessed for level 2. Implications for Teaching and Learning: Writing The evidence given supports the suggestion that Child A is progressing through National Curriculum level 1 and into level 2. There are several things that could be done to support this transition. It could be said that her main development point is to improve her spelling and to start to recognise medial sounds in words. Child A also needs to start leaving finger spaces in between words and to start using full stops correctly. The publication, Progression in Phonics: materials for whole class teaching, (DFES 1999) provides lots of suggestions for improving Child A’s ability to hear medial sounds. For example, the game, ‘Croaker,’ develops the children’s ability to hear and identify phonemes in a specified part of the word, using a puppet, (DFES 1999, 26). Such a game could improve Child A’s ability to hear and identify medial phonemes with the aim of improving her spelling. Reid suggests that shared and modelled writing are effective ways of supporting young children’s writing development, (Reid in Bentley and Burman et al. 1999, 103-104). This could be a good way of improving Child A’s use of finger spaces and full stops. If the teacher models the correct use of full stops and finger spaces, and also makes lots of deliberate mistakes which the children can help to correct, Child A will begin to understand how to use full stops and finger spaces effectively in her own writing. Conclusion In conclusion, the evidence presented above indicates that Child A is working at National Curriculum level 1 for her reading, writing and speaking and listening skills. It has already been suggested that effective teachers use what children already know as a basis for developing their language skills and facilitating their progression. The evidence collected has been carefully analysed with this aim in mind, and areas for the development of Child A’s literacy skills have been identified. Adult modelling of the reading and writing process should play a key part in this development, if Child A is to make good progress towards National Curriculum level 2. Peer modelling could also play an important role, and could also help to foster Child A’s self confidence. It is important that all these suggestions are linked to other areas of the curriculum in order to engage and interest Child A, although this should also be of paramount importance when teaching all children. If all these suggestions are put into action, Child A should start to make sound progress and will, in addition, be playing an important part in this progression herself. Bibliography Browne, Ann (1996) Developing Language and Literacy 3-8. London: Paul Chapman Publishing Limited. DFES (1999) Progression In Phonics: Materials for Whole-Class Teaching (The National Literacy Strategy) London: Department for Education and Employment DFES (2003a) Speaking, Listening, Learning: working with children in Key Stages 1 and 2: Teaching objectives and classroom activities. London: Department for Education and Employment DFES (2003b) Speaking, Listening, Learning: working with children in Key Stages 1 and 2: Handbook. London: Department for Education and Employment Graham, Judith and Kelly, Alison (1997) Reading Under Control: Teaching Reading in the Primary School. London: David Fulton Publishers Ltd. Moon, Cliff and Bourne, Jill (1994) The Open University Resource Pack: Learning to Teach Reading. Milton Keynes: The Open University. Reid, Dee Writing at Key Stage 1 in Bentley, Diana, Burman, Christine, Chamberlin, Rosemary et al. The Really Practical Guide to Primary English ( 1999) London: Stanley Thorne Publishers Ltd. www.nc.uk.net

Legalization of Marijuana Essay -- social issues

Legalization of Marijuana Take A Closer Look Those who oppose legalizing marijuana tell us that legalizing it would be seriously detrimental. Are they looking at the facts? Or do they just believe the same myths that our parents created when they were trying to stop us from becoming drug addicts? Let&rsquos take a closer look at the facts. Violence surrounding drug dealing would be lessened by legalizing marijuana because small time drug dealers would essentially be forced out of business. Larger companies who could produce high quality marijuana at lower cost would prevail. Most people would buy from these companies because they would know the product was free of adulterants and would contain no poisons. Wars between dealers of marijuana would end, and the sale of marijuana could be monitored by government the same way as essentially any other legitimate business. Sellers would be made accountable and a culture of responsibility would be formed. Desperate acts of theft and violence associated with its distribution would disappear as the black market disappears. Additionally, marijuana abusers who are currently being forced to live a life of shame and secrecy could openly seek help. Dangerous drugs such as crack cocaine and LSD are consistently placed in the same category as marijuana. These drugs are admittedly dangerous, but research has never been able to identify a link between crime and marijuana. Countless Americans have been branded as criminals and thrown into prison for merely possessing or smoking marijuana. Truly violent criminals are often paroled early for sheer lack of prison space because users of marijuana occupy the space. Why not leave the rapists and murderers in prison and let marijuana users engage in a relatively mild form of personal stimulation? Marijuana is safe and effective for medical use. Studies have proven that it is effective in reducing nausea and vomiting and that it can stimulate the appetite. This could help cancer and AIDS patients who face emaciation. Marijuana reduces tremors, restores balance, stops muscle spasms, restores bladder control, and restores speech and eyesight for multiple sclerosis patients. It can even prevent epileptic seizures. It can also alleviate pain and sometimes stop the progression of glaucoma because it reduces intraocular pressure. Marijuana is relatively harmless. Re... ... the time of purchase (as well as any retailers in between). The companies making the cigarettes would also have to pay income taxes. As marijuana has many medical uses and is fairly expensive ($160 to $400 per ounce), pharmaceutical companies also stand to make a profit. Drug paraphernalia could be openly sold and profits could be made there as well. The court system would profit as well. Courts would not be burdened by all of the marijuana cases that come before it. The cost of imprisoning marijuana users is enormous. If they were not convicted to begin with, we wouldn&rsquot need a place to put them. The war on drugs is accomplishing as much by chasing marijuana users as a fire fighter would by trying to put out a forest fire with one fire truck. If it is fought back in one place, it pops up in another. Drug enforcement officials are wasting their time and money trying to fight marijuana use. If marijuana were legalized, the money could be better concentrated on keeping minors off drugs. Achievable objectives could be set for law enforcement. Illogical patterns of law enforcement could end and a more responsible approach to controlling marijuana could be developed.

Analysis of Middle Range Nursing Theory Essay

Complex physiological changes during pregnancy have a significant impact on almost every organ on the body system including the oral cavity — these changes are due to hormonal changes. Estrogen causes increased blood flow to the oral cavity, making the gums friable and easy to bleed, contributing to gingivitis. Pregnancy-associated gingivitis is highly prevalent. It affects approximately 30%-75% of pregnant women and resolves after delivery. Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy can also increase the risk of extensive erosion (Varney, Kriebs, & Gegor, 2004; Barak, Oettinger, Machetie, Peled, & Ohel, 2003). In addition, changes in diet, such as increased consumption of carbohydrates, increased acid from vomiting, and changes in oral hygiene may increase the risk of tooth decay during pregnancy (Russel & Mayberry, 2008). Current research and evidence shows the importance of maintaining good oral health during pregnancy. Evidence supports that periodontal infections during pregnancy increases the risk of adverse birth outcomes such as premature deliveries, low birth weight, still birth, miscarriage, and pre-eclampsia (Russell & Mayberry, 2008; Jeffcoat, Geurs, Reddy, Cliver, Goldenberg & Hauth, 2001). Preterm birth is a significant public health problem, as the prematurity rate at in the United States was 12.7% in 2007. Preliminary data for 2008 indicates a slight decline to about 12.3% (Martin, Hamilton, Sutton, Ventura, Mathews, Kirmeyer, & Osterman, 2010). Behrman & Butler (2007) reported that annual societal preterm births cost more than $26.2 billion in 2005, or $51,600 per infant born preterm, including maternal delivery, medical care, early intervention services, and loss of household and labor market productivity. As a midwife, one main goal during antenatal care is to improve pregnancy outcomes. Part of this can be accomplished is by promoting oral health care and healthy  behaviors. It is important to provide oral health education before and during the current pregnancy, as well as educate our clients about the association between poor maternal oral health and adverse pregnancy outcomes. In addition, we must encourage them to see a dentist during pregnancy. Theory To choose a theory to apply to the practice problem, relevant theories must be critically evaluated based on a set of criteria. The author used the three questions posed by Fawcett and Associates (1992) as described by Kenny (2006): â€Å"(1) Does the theory or model address the client problems and health concerns?; (2) Are the nursing interventions suggested by the model consistent with client’s expectations for nursing care?; and (3) Are the goals of nursing actions, based on the model or theory, congruent with the client’s desired health outcomes?† (Kenny, 2006, p.305). Several middle range theories can be used and applied to maximize oral health during pregnancy, as well as the prevention of adverse outcome related to oral problems. The Theory of Reasoned Action and Theory of Planned Behavior focuses on and explores the relationship between behavior and beliefs, as well as attitudes and intention (Montano & Kasprzyk, 2008). The Diffusion of Innovations Theory has been used to study the adoption of health behaviors and programs (Tiffany & Lutjens, 1998). The Precaution Adoption Process Model has been applied to behaviors which require deliberate action and initiating new behaviors (Weinstein, Sandman, & Blalock, 2002). The Transtheoretical Model and Stages of Change are used to guide the individual through the stages of change to action and maintenance (Prochaska, Redding, & Evers, 2002). The Health Belief Model is used to predict and explain health behaviors and promote individuals in engaging health behavior (Champion & Stretcher & Janz, 2002). The best theory that fits this practice problem and author’s values and beliefs about client, health and nursing practice is Health Belief Model. Health Belief Model The Health Belief Model (HBM) was developed by a group of social psychologists at the U.S. Public Health Service in the 1950s in an attempt to understand â€Å"the widespread failure of people to participate in programs to prevent and detect disease.† It was later applied to patient responses to  symptoms and to compliance with prescribed medical regimens (Champion, Stretcher, & Janz, 2002, p. 46). The HBM has four major constructs: Perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefit, and perceived barriers. The model has been expanded to include cues to action and self efficacy (Champion, Stretcher, & Janz, 2002). ‘‘Perceived susceptibility† refers to â€Å"one’s subjective perception of the risk of contracting a health condition.† (Champion, Stretcher, & Janz, 2002, p.48). â€Å"Perceived severity† refers to â€Å"feelings concerning the seriousness of contracting an illness or of leaving it untreated includes evaluations of both medical and clinical consequences (death, disability and pain) and possible social consequences (such as effects of the conditions on work, family life, and social relations).† (Champion, Stretcher, & Janz, 2002, p.48). â€Å"Perceived benefits† are beliefs and opinions of the value regarding the effectiveness of the various actions available in reducing the disease threat.† (Champion, Stretcher, & Janz, 2002, p.48). â€Å"Perceive barrier† is a person’s perception of both the difficulties in performing the specific behaviors of interest and the negative things that could happen from performing those behaviors.† (Champion, Stretcher, & Janz, 2002, p.49). â€Å"Cues to action are strategies to activate the one’s readiness.† And finally, â€Å"self efficacy† is â€Å"one’s confidence in one’s ability to take action.† (Champion, Stretcher, & Janz, 2002, p.49). The Health Belief Model is one of the conceptual frameworks for understanding health behavior. Also, the HBM is used for explaining and predicting acceptance and adherence to medical care recommendations (Champion, Stretcher, & Janz, 2002). The Model hypothesis â€Å"that an individual’s decision to change behavior is determined by two elements: (1) One’s perception of a threat to personal health which is determined by two underlying belief, namely perceived susceptibility of the disease and the perceived severity and seriousness of the disease. And (2) Ones perception of the efficacy of treatment proposed to reduce the threat†. (Ramseier, Suvan, 2010). This theory is indicated as a mid-range theory because it is narrow in scope, less abstract, and more applicable directly to practice for explanation and implementation. The early applications of HBM were focused on tuberculosis screening test, and then MBM extended to lifestyle behavioral changes such as condoms use, obtaining vaccination against infectious disease such as  influenza vaccine (Baranowski, Cullen, Nicklas, Thompson, & Baranowski, 2003; Janz & Becker,1984). The HBM model also has been used on screening behaviors such as: mammography screening behaviors for detecting breast cancer, screening program for Tay Sachs disease, as well as in AIDS and high-risk behavior research (Janz & Becker, 1984) Plan for Practice Integration To initiate the use of the Health Belief Model in promoting and maximizing oral health during pregnancy, we might begin with distributing a survey or questionnaire for each woman during the prenatal visit. The purposes of questionnaire are: (1) To explore oral health practices and utilization of dental care; and (2) To examine women’s use of dental service and frequency of dental visits during pregnancy. The questionnaire includes demographic data (i.e., age, marital status, educational level, annual house hold income, and dental insurance). It also includes questions regarding oral health hygiene practices (i.e., frequency of brushing and flossing). In addition, the frequency of dental visits before and during pregnancy, reason for dental visit, questions regarding any instructions received from health care providers about oral health care, safety of oral treatment during pregnancy, knowledge of common oral health problem during pregnancy, and associations between poor matern al oral health and adverse pregnancy outcomes would also be covered. Questions about barriers to dental care or reasons they do not visit the dentist would be explored. After collecting the survey from the women, the midwife or health care provider should discuss and provide teaching about oral health practices, the importance and safety of dental visits, and provide knowledge of oral health and pregnancy outcomes associated with poor oral health. This information should be provided at every prenatal visit. The Health Belief Model would be explained in an educational session for midwife and health care provider (MD and dentist) using visual aids, including posters and handouts of the HBM construct. This educational session includes information about the theory in general, constructs and its relationships, also how this model was used in research and practice previously, and then how this model might be used and applied in maximizing and promoting oral health during pregnancy. A better understanding of the HBM from the midwife will  enable them to use it in predicting and screening a patient’s oral health and related behaviors. In-person counseling could address each woman’s baseline belief regarding susceptibility to oral infection (i.e., gingivitis, peridonitis and dental caries), as well as benefits and barriers to the dental clinic visit and screening. By the end of the educational session, certain outcome objectives should be assessed. These outcome objectives would be: (1) By the end of the session, 100% of the midwives and health care providers will be able to describe the HBM and its constructs in their own words; and (2) By the end of the session, 100% of the health care providers and midwives will be able to assist individual clients to develop and maintain oral hygiene behaviors. These objectives could be measured by assessing learner expectations regarding the sessions, asking questions, and having each one state their answers, as well as provide effective feedback to each answer from the participants. Several factors influencing the practice issues were understood by using the HBM in this practicum situation. The concept of â€Å"perceived susceptibility† includes all pregnant women because of the hormonal fluctuations that occur during pregnancy, in addition to personal characteristics related to income, poor habits, inadequate dental hygiene and related behaviors. The concept of â€Å"perceived severity† is important in that if woman are made aware of poor pregnancy outcomes related to poor oral health, they may be more inclined to engage in healthy behaviors. The concept of â€Å"perceived benefits† are instrumental and correlate with healthy behaviors and healthy outcomes, which is the desire of most pregnant women. The concept of â€Å"perceived barriers† is important to address. While the cost of dental care may be discouraging and many may fear the pain involved in dental health (i.e., injections, fillings), the cost and disappointment of poor pregnancy outcomes may far exceed these perceived barriers. â€Å"Cues to action† are employed through education and counseling the patient regarding the many benefits and risks regarding adequate and a lack of oral hygiene, as it affects their pregnancy outcome. The concept of â€Å"self-efficacy† is important, as women become empowered to make positive life-style behavioral changes which positively impact their pregnancies. References Barak, S., Oettinger, B., Machetie, E., Peled, M., & Ohel, G. (2003). Common oral manifestations during pregnancy: A review. Obstetrical and Gynecological Survey, 58(9), 624-628. Baranowski, Cullen, K., Nicklas, T., Thompson, D., & Baranowski, J.( 2003). Are current Health behavioral change models helpful in guiding prevention of weight gain efforts? Obesity research; 11. Janz & Becker. (1984). The Health Belief Model: A decade later. Health education quarterly.11 (1):1-47. Jeffcoat, M., Geurs, N., Reddy, M., Cliver, S., Goldenberg, R., & Hauth, J. (2001). Periodontal infection and preterm birth: Results of a prospective study. Journal of the American Dental Association,132, 875-880. Behrman, R., & Butler, A. (2007). Preterm birth: Causes, consequences and prevention. National Academic Press, Washington, DC. Retrieved on November 3, 2011 from http://www.nap.edu/openbook.php?record_id=11622&page=398. Martin, J., Hamilton, B., Sutton, P., Ventura, S., Mathews, T., Kirmeyer, S., & Osterman, M. (2010). Births: Final data for 2007. National Vital Statistics Reports. 58(24), 1-88. Montano, D., & Kasorzyk, D. (2008). Theory of reasoned action, theory of planned behavior, and the integrated behavioral model. In K. Glanz, B. Rimer, & K. Viswanath (Eds.). Health Behavior and Health Education Theory Research and Practice (4th ed.), USA: Jossey-Bas, pp. 67-95. Ramseier, C., & Suvan, J.(2010). Health behavior change in dental practice. Ames, Iowa: Wiley-Blackwell. Russel, S., & Mayberry, L. (2008). Pregnancy and oral health: A review and recommendations to Reduce gaps in practice and research. The American Journal of Child Health Nursing,33(1), pp. 32-7. Prochaska, J., Redding, C., & Evers, K. (2002). The Transtheoretical model and stages of change. In K. Glanz, B. Rimer, & K. Viswanath (Eds.) Health Behavior and Health Education Theory Research and Practice (4th ed.). USA: Jossey-Bass, pp. 97-121. Varney, H., Kriebs, J., & Gegor, C. (2004). Varney’s midwifery (4th ed). Sudbury, Mass: Jones & Bartlett Publishers. Weinstein, N., Sandman, P., & Blalock, S. (2002). The precaution adoption process model. In K. Glanz, B. Rimer, & K. Viswanath (Eds.) Health Behavior and Health Education Theory, Research, and Practice (4th ed.). USA: Jossey-Bas, pp. 123-147.

God in Nature Essay

Looking at two different definitions of the word nature, I gained a better understanding of what the phrase, â€Å"God in Nature†, means. The first said that it was, â€Å"the essential qualities or characteristics by which something is recognized† (www. wordnetweb. princeton. edu), and the other described it as, â€Å"The material world and its phenomena† (www. answers. com). The earth, and everything in it, is â€Å"God in Nature†, it has the very nature of God Himself, just as it is the nature of a flower to bloom. Nature is just one of the ways that God speaks to mankind. So, in other words, God is in nature, and nature is in God. Curtis Questions Some things are learned, and some things come natural to you, you don’t know how or when they became a part of you, but you just somehow know how to do them. I believe if we’ll listen in a little harder we can hear the voice of God instructing us on how to do things a little simpler, and a little better. Just like the farmer in Isaiah, I too have experienced God enabling me to do things I was never taught. I am a singer/songwriter, and there are times I come up with things musically, and I know it is from God because I definitely wouldn’t have normally thought to do it that way. General revelation involves God’s witness through creation itself. General revelation is open to all who will receive it, for it is all around us. One thing that I have learned through general revelation is that, experience may not always be the best teacher, but it is necessary to gain wisdom in certain things, like how to discipline your children the right way. Art has played the leading role in most of my life, especially the art of music. There are times when I am feeling down, but a song will come from within, or from someone else, and it will lift my spirit. â€Å"Most Christians are omfortable using general revelation to build a house or evaluate nutrition. They are often far less comfortable using information from disciplines like psychology or anthropology (also general revelation). † (Curtis 1996) I believe it is difficult for most Christians to accept the studies of psychology and anthropology, because it is more personal, dealing with the human mind, and behavior. Christians believe we are to be disciplined in our minds by gaining the mind of Christ through His Word, and if we study too deep into our emotions and feelings (which are natural), we miss the mark. Sometimes our human emotions can cause us to think twice about the Word of God. I used to think that people who were mentally disabled had some form of demon possession, because of stories from the scripture, but as I got older and learned more about chemical imbalances in the brain etc†¦my opinion about that was changed. The Bible says â€Å"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,† says the Lord â€Å" For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts. † (Isaiah 55:8-9). This is why, as Christians, we cannot solely depend on studies of the human mind and behavior. Some people refuse to accept God for who He is because of their human experiences. I knew a man once who hated God or that thought of Him because he had lost his mother at a very early age. He became bitter and began to believe God had killed his mother, so God could not be all good. Theologians with nature & Guthrie arguments â€Å"Theologians argue that man’s universal understanding that there is a divine being stands as an indication for his existence. (Wead). Shirley Guthrie (Guthrie, Christian Doctrine, Revised Edition, pages 41-42), lists six arguments used by philosophers and theologians through the centuries: â€Å" (1) the world is not self-explanatory, (2) the universe displays purpose, (3) world history and personal experience point to God’s existence, (4) conscience bears witness to the existence of God, (5) we have spiritual awareness of a divine presence deep within, and (6) the world seems to function in a rational way. † Two areas general revelation is useful Besides man’s ability to reason that there is a God, general revelation is often employed in two other areas. First, it is used to reason that there is a basic set of moral values that all men reason to be true. †(Wead) It is always said that you don’t have to teach a child how to lie, it just comes natural for them to do it, and it is the adult’s responsibility to correct that behavior. I believe we are just born with a set of moral standards built in our conscience. The child lies to begin with, because most likely they did something wrong, and are afraid of the possible consequences. Second, we reason that general revelation provides us with insight into the nature of God that we could not appreciate through special revelation alone. † (Wead). For example, our universe bears the mark of intelligent design and purpose. God speaks to us through His creation and it is not for lack of evidence that people reject God; it is because they refuse to see. General revelation is open to anyone who will open their eyes and see. General and Special Revelation General revelation, I believe was meant to be discovered through our senses, for it is in the world around us. Some things are more apparent, and other things you have to dig a little deeper to find out. Like the body and the way that it functions, we know we have a brain that sends messages to our bodies, keeping things going, but since we don’t see those brains, we must dig a little deeper to learn from it. For it too, is a part of the world around us. Nothing about DNA or nuclear fusion is found in Scripture, yet few would deny that those constitute part of reality. †(Curtis 1996). Special Revelation is the Scriptures. † In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets, at many times and in various ways. † (Hebrews 1:1). The writers were led by the Holy Spirit to communicate exactly what God was saying. â€Å"Curtis sees general revelation as an interpreter of special revelation. In other words, when we read the Scriptures we use our experience of nature to validate what we read in Scripture. † (Wead). Summary I have gained a better understanding of how useful general revelation is to the believer. I think sometimes we as Christians, get so spiritually minded that we forget there is a whole world around us, which may not necessarily be mention in the Bible, but is meant to couple with scripture to get a better understanding of the â€Å"Bigger Picture†, so to speak.