Project Management and Virtual Teams free essay sample

Athabasca University Abstract Due to cutting edge correspondence advancements, globalization and re-appropriating the vast majority of the undertaking supervisory crews depend on gatherings of people called virtual groups who work across reality utilizing correspondence advances. Individuals from virtual groups might be workers of same organization from same nation, or they can be temporary workers, providers and friends representatives around the world. Overseeing ventures utilizing virtual groups have a few preferences and weaknesses. Likewise a few examinations have been done to attempt to decide the elements that are emphatically co-identified with the viability of virtual groups (Schwalbe, 2011). To oversee virtual groups effectively in venture the board, the task chief must deal with these variables effectively and furthermore limit the effect of drawbacks. This paper examines the points of interest and impediments of the virtual groups in venture the board and diagrams the components that are decidedly associated to the accomplishment of undertakings dependent on virtual groups. The paper likewise plots a portion of the suggestions to effectively deal with the virtual group in data innovation ventures. We will compose a custom paper test on Undertaking Management and Virtual Teams or on the other hand any comparative point explicitly for you Don't WasteYour Time Recruit WRITER Just 13.90/page Watchwords Globalization, re-appropriating, virtual groups, video conferencing, working from home, Project Management, Trust and relationship, Advantages of Virtual groups, Disadvantages of virtual group. Presentation Imagine that you are an undertaking administrator in a global association and dealing with a venture to update the server working framework and your colleagues are from various nations with various societies and working in various time regions. To finish the task effectively that depends on virtual groups, venture director must comprehend the preferences and inconveniences of overseeing virtual groups and factors that decidedly influence the colleagues. Today a large portion of the venture supervisory crews depend on virtual groups whose individuals work across reality utilizing correspondence advances and task chiefs can't depend on past techniques for venture group the board where they had the option to construct trust between colleague by social communication, up close and personal gatherings, and direct perceptions of individual colleague responsibility. Kirkman, Rosen, Gibson, Tesluk, McPherson, 2002). Writing Review Virtual groups do have a few focal points and disservices. A portion of the preferences delineated by Kathy Schwalbe are: all day, every day accessibility of laborers expanding competiveness and responsiveness, bringing down the expense of venture the same number of virtual colleagues needn't bother with office space and backing, giving greater adaptability and mastery as task directors approach the ability around the world and expanding the work/life balance for colleagues by wiping out fixed available time and the need to head out to work. (Schwalbe, 2011). Correspondence and trust are the most significant variables that impact the virtual group execution. Saonee Sarker and others examined the â€Å"theoretical linkages among trust, correspondence, and colleague execution in virtual teams†. (Sarker1, Ajuja, Sarker, Kirkeby, 2001). To demonstrate their contention the specialists distinguished and tried three proposed models (added substance, communication, and intervention) portraying the job of trust in its relationship. The aftereffects of the examination showed that the â€Å"mediating† model best clarifies how correspondence and trust cooperate to impact the presentation of virtual colleagues. In straightforward words them study demonstrates that â€Å"a open individual will be bound to be trusted and will hence be bound to be a high performer†. (Sarker1, Ajuja, Sarker, Kirkeby, 2001) Radostina K. Purvanova looked into exploratory writing and rising field research on virtual groups. Creator analyzed the â€Å"results from both sort of writing and found that trial writing has to a great extent detailed negative outcomes for virtual groups, while ? eld examinations and contextual analyses of genuine virtual groups utilized by business associations report positive results for virtual groups. (Purvanova, Feb 2014) As indicated by the article despite the fact that outcomes detailed by trial versus field contemplates are very unique, writer infers that the two written works have uncovered negative mentalities toward virtual correspondence media. Points of interest of Virtual Teams The principle preferences of virtual groups include: The greatest favorable position of virtual group delighted in by an association is the related cost reserve funds. The association can spare immense costs on land, office spaces, service bills, for example, gas, power, water and so on and executive’s travel. Colleagues can work from anyplace and whenever of the day. They can pick the spot they work dependent on the state of mind and the solace. You can select individuals for their aptitudes and appropriateness to the activity. The area doesn't make a difference. There is no time and cash squandered for driving and apparel. Physical impediment are not an issue. Another preferred position is the work laws, a few associations like to have virtual groups due to severe nearby work laws. Since the individuals length the time regions, there could be distinctive group chipping away at a similar venture every minute of every day, so when one part dozes there will be another elsewhere who might begin work where the previous had left. This abbreviates the item improvement time just as quicker reaction time to requests in both worldwide and neighborhood markets. Inconveniences of Virtual Teams Disadvantages of virtual groups include: Since colleagues don't much of the time meet or don't meet by any means, the collaboration soul may not be available. A few people want to be in a physical office when working. These individuals will be less beneficial in virtual situations. To work for virtual groups, people need to have a ton of self-control. In the event that the individual isn't trained, the person in question might be less gainful. The social contrast between the individuals from virtual groups offers ascend to number of contentions. For instance, while a representative from one piece of the world would compose a clear email portraying a terrible circumstance; this would be seen as inconsiderate by an individual from the group from other piece of the world. This would prompt clashes, doubt and troubles in productive coordinated effort which is so indispensable for the accomplishment of virtual group working. These difficulties are likewise encouraged by the nonattendance of non-verbal prompts so natural for eye to eye cooperations. Numerous individuals from virtual groups are antagonistically influenced by the absence of physical cooperations. A large portion of the interchanges in virtual condition is task-situated. In today’s society where employment is a significant social power for a large portion of us on the grounds that a considerable lot of our working environment associates likewise comprise our dear companions, this gives a not all that great sentiment of social segregation. This thusly counter-impacts profitability just as prompts pressure. In the virtual condition, it is smarter to impart, explain, and affirm everything to ensure that all individuals have a similar comprehension about the main job. This produces of ton of desk work and documents that could rapidly fill your files. Variables that emphatically influence virtual groups Succession arranging and advancements including virtual colleagues are significant elements and whenever oversaw appropriately, virtual colleagues will feel that they are getting acknowledgment and acknowledge and therefore they will be fulfilled and their profitability will be expanded. (Leonard, 2011) Since colleagues are not imparting eye to eye, productive group and individual input early and regularly turns out to be progressively significant and whenever oversaw appropriately can stay away from numerous issues before hand. Trust between colleagues and task pioneer is a significant factor that can influence the presentation of colleagues. One significant approach to fabricate trust between colleagues is compelling correspondence. The more they speak with one another and with venture more they manufacture the trust. Very much characterized and archived group process additionally significant which spares a great deal of time for particularly new colleagues to discover answers to their inquiries identified with approaches and systems. A colleague choice and job inclination is additionally significant factor to effectively deal with the virtual groups. Dr. Meredith Belbin characterized a group job as a propensity to carry on, contribute and interrelate with others with a certain goal in mind. 15 It is critical to choose colleagues cautiously and to frame a group where all jobs are secured. Each virtual colleague should likewise get their role(s) in the group. † (Schwalbe, 2011) Discussion and Conclusions Organizations, for example, IBM, Microsoft, Whirlpool just as SMEs are receiving the rewards of virtual groups for quite a while. It has been an all around perceived truth that virtual group is certifiably not a passing tide yet it is digging in for the long haul. Virtual groups are ascending in numbers these days and even little innovation organizations are currently adjusting virtual group practice for enrolling the best individuals from everywhere throughout the globe and diminish the expense. As sketched out in past segments, virtual groups do have advantaged and a few inconveniences too. To profit by focal points and to limit the effect of weaknesses a task supervisor can concentrate on factors that emphatically influence the virtual team’s execution. As demonstrated by past specialists, increment in trust, comfort level and correspondence viability prompts better undertaking achievement. The entirety of the above examined burdens can be overwhelmed by following an alternate authority approach, trainings, more noteworthy job lucidity and powerful correspondence procedures. Additionally prior talked about variables that influence virtual groups, whenever oversaw appropriately can bring about an effective undertaking. Also, the organizations utilizing virtual groups can limit their working expenses and

The strengths and limitations of duration analysis

The qualities and confinements of term examination As expressed by the US Federal Reserve, loan cost hazard impacts on a different scope of partners, and henceforth budgetary entertainers are keen on evaluating its effect. The most significant viable instrument to oversee loan cost hazard and to fulfill this primary capacity for banks is term examination. When all is said in done span Analysis is an econometric device and as far as Financial Economics it is characterized as the mean time allotment that goes until the current worth is returned by a flood of fixed installments as indicated by Macaulay (1938). Subsequently, Duration is a proportion of the affectability of assetâ's costs to intrigue developments. My following paper characterizes span as per Macaulay and presents uncommon terms from the training. In addition, it thinks about vaccination, supporting and Duration Gap Analysis as useful applications. The following part will examine qualities and shortcomings of term investigation. It closes with todays significance of Durat ion examination. There are two primary motivations to examine Duration as indicated by Kopprasch (2006). Right off the bat, firms and particularly money related middle people have tied up tremendous measures of capital in fixed salary instruments. These incorporate securities halfway with discretionary attributes or ongoing budgetary developments like trades, loan fee alternatives or floaters. Subsequently, legitimate supporting of these instruments gets significant. Besides, the key figure term gives an instinctive way to deal with instruct potential clients. This prompts a superior comprehension of money related instruments as a rule and how they act when loan costs change. Bodie, Kane, Marcus (2006) Exact examinations and Figure 16.1 show six bond-estimating connections: Right off the bat, theres a converse connection between security cost and respect development. Furthermore, an expansion in a securities respect development brings about a littler value change than a decline of equivalent size. Thirdly, long haul bonds are more touchy than transient bonds. Fourthly, loan fee hazard, which is estimated by the affectability of security costs to changes in yields, is not exactly relative to security development. Fifthly, there is a reverse connection between loan fee hazard and securities coupon rate, in light of the fact that a security with a higher coupon rate pays a more prominent level of its current incentive before development. Sixthly, the respect development at which the security is right now sold is contrarily identified with the affectability of the securities cost to an adjustment in its yield. This five perceptions were portrayed Mankiel and are known as Malkiel bond-valuing connections. The 6th property was shown by Homer and Liebowitz (19 72). Ingersoll, Skelton, Weil, (1978) expressed that the key figure Duration can be deciphered as an endeavor to evaluate this subjective perceptions through a solitary and numerical measure. The term ideas has its starting points in crafted by Macaulay(1938), Samuelson (1945), Hicks (1939) and Redington (1952). Macaulay(1938) characterized span as the mean timeframe that go until the current worth is returned by a surge of fixed installments. The evidence that length is a versatility was given by Hicks in 1939. This implies the value flexibility of a security because of a minuscule change in its respect development is relative to length. Be that as it may, Fisher (2006) gives occasion to feel qualms about Hickss inference. By the by, his verification is commonly recognized. Redington (1952) determined the span freely and utilized it for portfolio vaccination. The standard definition as indicated by Macaulay is: subject to The weight is determined by . In the extraordinary instance of a zero bond, the span rises to the development, in light of the fact that no installments happen before development. Kopprasch (2006) makes reference to a few distinctive down to earth techniques which depend on Macauleys term and are utilized by and by. Compelling length is controlled by the value development to a gradual development while holding the choice balanced spread consistent. Alternative balanced Spread (OAS) is a level spread which is added to the yield bend in a valuing model and considers choices like prepayments open doors for contract supported protections. Consequently, OAS is model ward and joins unpredictability like variable financing costs or prepayment rates. Portfolio length measures the Duration of an arrangement of various resources. It depends on the additivity of single spans. Additivity implies that the term of a portfolio is the weighted-normal of the spans of the individual protections. The loads are the present market estimation of every security. The term Modified length is determined by the equation: Moreover, the term fractional spans or key rate lengths is a vector of terms, where every term is just substantial for a restricted development run. Spread term perceives that an adjustment in the spread can influence the bond. This key figure was planned particularly to esteem floaters which exchange close to standard by definition. It frequently turns out that the market doesnt appear to exchange the instruments with the anticipated length. Henceforth, exact span was created to manage these occasions. It is determined by relapsing value developments of the benefit versus some market benchmark. The following section thinks about two utilizations of length in chance administration: Hedging and vaccination for a portfolio and Duration Gap Analysis. The adjustment in a benefit cost because of progress in financing costs can be determined by: Fooladi (2000) portrays that the acknowledged pace of return envelop premium amassed from reinvestment of coupon pay and the capital increase or misfortune toward the finish of the arranging time frame when the portfolio is sold. The two segments sway the acknowledged pace of return in inverse ways. Henceforth, in one point the two inverse impacts of coupon reinvestment and capital increase or misfortune balance each other. At the point when the portfolio term approaches the length of the arranging time frame, the portfolio is inoculated and the acknowledged return won't fall underneath the guaranteed pace of return. The second portrayed application is Duration Gap Analysis which is an expansion to the vaccination approach, since it incorporates liabilities. A fundamental capacity of banks is to give development change. Thus, banks as a rule have momentary liabilities and long haul resources. As an outcome of this length crisscross and appeared by the third after condition, changes in financing costs directly affect the banks value esteem. The hole between the spans of the advantages and liabilities ( is a proportion of the financing cost danger of banks value. Fooladi (2000) depicts that banks may take humble wagers by setting a term hole or set the length hole near zero. The subsequent condition shows how banks can modify their length hole by moving loads on resources or liabilities. Bierwag and Fooladi (2006) indicate that banks use reeling sheet protections like loan cost prospects, choices and trades to diminish alteration time and to spare expenses. Regardless of the demonstrated qualities, there are shortcomings in length investigation. As should be obvious in Figure 16.3, Duration is just substantial for little changes, on the grounds that the connection among span and value changes is inferred by a first-request Taylor arrangement guess. Besides, Mishkin/Eakins (2006) reprimand that financing cost changes need to influence all paces of developments by the very same sum. As a rule, the incline of the yield shouldnt be influenced at all and the yield bend is thought to be level. Notwithstanding, the state of the yield bend vacillates over the business cycle and therefore this normal slant change must be thought of. The referenced halfway length and spread term attempt to deal with this weakness. Further issues include vulnerability over the extent of advantages and liabilities. Assessments need to consider for instance prepayment of credits, client moves out of stores and dubious money installments because of default chance as per Fooladi and Roberts (2004). As Bierwag and Kaufman (1988) appeared, default modifies bonds incomes and their planning. Also, one needs to foresee the stochastic procedure overseeing financing cost developments to esteem alternatives. This can make a stochastic procedure hazard which can be evaluated by ways to deal with to quantify loan cost instability chance. Ho (2007) states that experts tie length and vega estimates which indicate the sensitivities to the move in the trade bend and the unpredictability surface, separately. In his methodology unpredictability chance is estimated by the worth affectability of a choice to the adjustment in the suggested instability work at the key rate focuses on the bend. Ingersoll, Skelton, and Weil (1978) contend that the accepted stochastic procedure to create span models is conflicting with balance conditions. Happening huge stuns to loan costs, riskless exchange got conceivable, however on the pragmatic side the riskless-exchange contention appeared to be theoretical. To conquer these shortcomings, Mishkin and Eakins (2006) specifies progressively modern methodologies, for example, situation examination and worth in danger investigation and convexity which is a second-request Taylor arrangement estimation and can be utilized as a revision measure. Paroush and Prisman (1997) reinforce this presumption and show that convexity (second-request) can be a higher priority than the length (first request). To place it more or less, with expanding intricacy of protections, bunch expansions have been added to the previous length investigation established by Macaulay to deal with the happening dangers. Moreover, extraordinary span estimates face various suspicions about slant and state of the yield bend or the stochastic procedure driving financing costs. One needs to take at the top of the priority list how precise these presumptions are, on the grounds that as found in the ongoing money related emergency disappointments influence the whole economy, as indicated by my beginning articulation. In any case, span investigation is a versatile structure and utilized cautiously, a device to get an initial introduction of int

9 Tips for Creating a Successful Birthday

9 Tips for Creating a Successful Birthday Saturday was my 46th birthday and I have been reflecting on what makes a successful birthday. We all have birthdays, and, sadly I think, sometimes we ignore them. I hope these tips inspire you to pay attention to your special day and milk it for all it’s worth! Do have a party. And make it easy on yourself. It’s so easy to get lazy and not throw a birthday party. But birthdays are a once-a-year opportunity to have a party that’s exactly the way you want it! If you don’t like asking people to celebrate you, that’s a perfect reason to bite the bullet and start inviting!In the past I have hosted people at my apartment for my birthday, but there’s so much work preparing and (ugh) cleaning up. I now prefer to invite my friends to lunch or dinner at a restaurant. I keep the guest list to 9 so we can all see, hear and interact with each other. We order what we want and the food magically appears! And someone else does the cleanup. Make the conversations special. I always like to spend some time at my party with attention on things that matter to me. A birthday gathering, or any conversation on my birthday, is an opportunity to reflect on the past year and vision for the year ahead. Some years, I’ve asked each of my guests to appreciate me for something and I have appreciated them for what I see as their gifts and strengths. Other years, I ask them to come up with questions like, “What was your favorite movie this year?” “What’s the scariest thing that happened to you this year?” and “What was your most romantic moment this year?” and I answer them. This year, the focus was on the future. I shared my vision for my business, my relationships and myself. I shared some of my struggles too, connecting on a deeper level than typical party conversation. For me, that made for a successful birthday party. Stay late at your party. Don’t leave your own party until the last guest has left. Two years ago, we closed down the Daisy Cupcakery and were awarded with free cupcakes! This year, one guest arrived as some others were already leaving. You never know what will happen at the 11th hour. Give gifts. Many party invitations come with the quip, “Your presence is your present.” I agree. I do not expect gifts for my birthday. But I love to GIVE them! Last year I gave strawberries to the server at the restaurant where I held my party. This year I offered lettuce from my garden to all my guests. I felt joy that I could give something to the people I care about! Often, giving gifts is much more gratifying than receiving them. Use your gift wish list. Sometimes people want to give you a gift, and I like to keep a list of things I want just for that purpose. You can use your Amazon Wish List or keep a file in Evernote or on your computer. When someone asks, you’ll have suggestions at the ready! (This tip came in handy when my mom asked me what I wanted for my birthday.) Answer the phone. This might be obvious, but the phone will be ringing for YOU! Answer it, even if you can only talk for a couple of minutes, and soak in the happy birthday wishes and songs. Connect with the people you love! Engage on Facebook and LinkedIn. Set your Facebook settings so people can post on your timeline, and “Like” all the birthday greetings you receive! Say “Thank you” to as many people as you can. You might start up a welcome conversation with a long-lost friend! On LinkedIn, thank everyone who wishes you a happy birthday. Some of them might become clients or even employers! Celebrate for the whole month! This tip came from my friend and fellow resume writer Kristin Johnson. Chances are that all your friends and family will not be able to show up for your official birthday party, so create multiple opportunities to connect and celebrate! Why make your birthday about just one day? In Kristin’s family, she gets a month, her partner gets a month, and each of her kids gets a dedicated month! Be proud. Whatever your age, be proud of having reached this point in your life! Count your blessings and your accomplishments, however big or small. If you’re not satisfied with something, now is a great time to create a plan to change it! I am happy to say I did all nine of these things for my birthday this year, and I feel very satisfied with the experience! What are your tips for making your birthday a success? I’d love to hear about your special rituals and family traditions!

Essay on The Black Death - 2050 Words

The Black Death The Black Death had profound effects on Medieval Europe. Although most people did not realize it at the time, the Black Death had not only marked the end of one age but it also denoted the beginning of a new one, namely the Renaissance. Between 1339 and 1351a.d, a pandemic of plague called the Black Death, traveled from China to Europe affecting the importance of cities, creating economic and demographic crises, as well as political dislocation and realignment, and bringing about powerful new currents in culture and religion. In the beginning, the Italian town of Genoa was one of the busiest ports in Europe. Ships sailed from there to trade all over the Mediterranean Sea. In October of 1347, 12 merchant†¦show more content†¦The mortality rate for the pneumonic plague was 90-95%; (if treated today the mortality rate would be 5-10%). The pneumonic plague infected the lungs. Symptoms include slimy sputum; saliva mixed with mucus exerted from the respiratory system, tinted with blood. As the disease progressed, the sputum became free flowing and bright red. Symptoms took 1-7 days to appear. This disease could only be transmitted through the air, by someones cough. Finally the septicemic plague was the most rare form of all. The mortality was close to 100 %. Symptoms, which took 1-7 days to appear, were high fever and skin turning deep shades of purple. The Black Death struck the European people without warning. Physicians and philosophers harmed rather than helped. They did not understand the causes of infectious diseases nor how they spread. It is no wonder that they looked to priests and storytellers, rather than doctors, for answers. They did not have the ability to understand where this sudden cruel death had come from. And they did not know whether it would never go away. The most common belief was that God, being a punishment for the sin people had committed sent the plague. Even innocent people, such as infants, had to suffer for the horrible crimes of others. The church was quick to condemn gambling, excessive drinking, the immodesty of women, and theShow MoreRelatedThe Black Of Black Death939 Words   |  4 Pageshistory few events seem as cataclysmic as the Black Death. The Black Death was actually one of the most deadly pandemics in human history. This awful pandemics most devastating time in Europe was between 1348 and 1350. According to some estimates it wiped out at least two-thirds of Europe’s population. A Malmesbury monk from Wiltshire wrote that, â€Å"Over England as a whole a fifth og men, women and children were carried to the grave.† (James â€Å"Black Death: The lasting impact†) Many epidemiologists stillRead MoreThe Death Of The Black Death1148 Words   |  5 PagesThe Black Death, one of the greatest natural disaster to hit Europe thus causing the death of many people in the most horrific manner and cause the end of feudalism. This was a disaster that affected one third of the European continent and also one that no one was prepared to face. It killed more people than during a war and it impacted simple lives of people, their culture, religion and the economy as a whole. The origin of The Black Death has several explanations. Some people said The Black DeathRead MoreThe Death Of The Black Death905 Words   |  4 Pagesgrew were dying. On the wake of these seven distressing years of weather and famine was the greatest plague of all times, The Black Death. In 1347 AD, The Black Death began spreading throughout Western Europe. Over the time span of three years, the widespread epidemic killed one third of the population in Europe with pretty near twenty five million people dead. The Black Death killed many more Europeans than any other endemic or war up to that time, vastly impacting the Church, the people, and the economyRead MoreThe Death Of The Black Death1380 Words   |  6 PagesThe Black Death was a very important time in history and, while devastating, it led to many advances in medicine due to the mass spread of a new deadly disease. The 14th Century encompassed the time period of January 1, 1301 to December 31, 1400. When this disease struc k, Ole J. Benedictow calculates that it killed about 50 million people in Europe alone, which was about 60% of Europe’s population at the time. That being said, the Black Death, often referred to as the Bubonic Plague, clocked inRead MoreThe Death Of The Black Death2017 Words   |  9 PagesThe Black Death The pandemic known to history as the Black Death was one of the world’s worst natural disasters in history. It was a critical time for many as the plague hit Europe and â€Å"devastated the Western world from 1347 to 1351, killing 25%-50% of Europe’s population and causing or accelerating marked political, economic, social, and cultural changes.† The plague made an unforgettable impact on the history of the West. It is believed to have originated somewhere in the steppes of central AsiaRead MoreThe Black Death1386 Words   |  6 Pagesatrocious and it made the perfect place for Yersinia Pestis to thrive. Yersinia Pestis is the virus responsible for the Black Death, a deadly disease that rapidly powered through Europe, killing nearly all of the people in its way. The Black Death had a lot of gruesome and terrifying symptoms that made bystanders sick just watching. Certain people were more likely to acquire the Black Death than others. Since peasants had worse l iving conditions than the nobility, they were far more likely to catch theRead MoreThe Black Death1386 Words   |  6 Pagesatrocious and it made the perfect place for Yersinia Pestis to thrive. Yersinia Pestis is the virus responsible for the Black Death, a deadly disease that rapidly powered through Europe, killing nearly all of the people in its way. The Black Death had a lot of gruesome and terrifying symptoms that made bystanders sick just watching. Certain people were more likely to acquire the Black Death than others. Since peasants had worse living conditions than the nobility, they were far more likely to catch theRead MoreThe Black Death1349 Words   |  6 Pagesatrocious and it made the perfect place for Yersinia Pestis to thrive. Yersinia Pestis is the virus responsible for the Black Death, a deadly disease that rapidly powered through Europe, killing nearly all of the people in its way. The Black Death had a lot of gruesome and scary symptoms that made bystanders sick just watching. Certain people were more likely to acquire the Black Death than others. Since peasants had worse living conditions than the nobility, they were far more likely to catch the PlagueRead MoreThe Black Death831 Words   |  4 PagesTHE BLACK DEATH! What Is The Black Death? The Black Death is a disease that went on for over 5 years. It also spread around a wide range of places! It killled and harmed thousands upon thousands of people and had no mercy. If you were to sadly catch the Black Death, you would DEFINITELY die and there was many cures and causes however none of the causes actually worked also all of causes were thought to be a punishment from God. Once you knew you had the Black DeathRead MoreThe Black Death1203 Words   |  5 PagesWhat were the short term and long term impacts of the Black Death on Medieval society? The Black Death is one of the most fatal diseases in human history and took its peak in Europe from 1348 to 1350. Half of Europe’s population was wiped out due to this disease and the short and long term impacts greatly affected the structure of Medieval Society. The Black Death or otherwise known as the plague was thought to have begun in Central Asia, which spread down the Silk Road and eventually to Europe

Summary Language Arts - 1941 Words

JJ Jackman language Arts Stockton 10.3.16 Ross Beverly was an 8th grader at Oakleaf Middle School when he got invited onto the local AAU basketball team named the Royals. He lived about five miles away from the Buffalo Grove Royals which was hard to get to since his mom doesn t have a car. He has to either get a ride from his friend who lives next to him, or walk. It takes him a little less than an hour to walk with his stinky bag of worn out basketball shoes and knee pads that probably don’t help when he falls at all. Ross had played on the Oakleaf Middle School basketball team that had gone from not even making the playoffs, to winning the championship against Elk Grove Middle School. He had been named team MVP every year he was on the†¦show more content†¦On Ross’s first practice he got to know everyone on the team. The players that stood out were Frank Stanford, Reggie Duncan, Karl Payton, and Wyatt Irving. They weren t all as tall as him except for Reggie. Reggie was 6’3 and could a lready dunk. At the 5th Royals practice, he was just getting to know everyone when Karl and the team introduced themselves. â€Å"Hey Ross, get over here.† Karl says As Ross comes over, it seems as if the whole team swarms around him like bees. â€Å"Yeah Karl, what s good?† â€Å"We have seen you shoot around and now know how good you play. But we see you are slipping and sliding in you shoes so†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"Wait, wait, wait. Are you telling me-† â€Å"Yes Ross. We are gifting you with New Hyperdunks 2014 to make you the best player you can be.† At this point in time, Ross inside was about to cry and he wanted to scream. He was so surprised because nobody had ever been so nice to Ross. When he was in school, no one was ever nice to him like that. Because he was poor he only had one friend that was actually nice to him. It seems that everyone on this team liked him. It was his dream to play basketball and for someone to be nice to him and both were finally coming true. He wanted to switch schools straight away. When he walked home that day, he told his mom and cried a river of tears because it was a private school. He didn’t come to school for a whole week because he was too sad. When he finally came to school, he played basketball for hours and didn’t listen to

Sexual Orientation Free Essays

Societal attitudes towards same-sex relationships have varied over time and place, from expecting all males to engage in same-sex relationships, to casual integration, through acceptance, to seeing the practice as a minor sin, repressing it through law entorcement and Judicial mechanisms, and to proscribing it under penalty ot death People with a homosexual orientation can express their sexuality in a variety of ways, and may or may not express it in their behaviors. ] Many have sexual relationships predominately with people of their own gender identity, though some have sexual relationships with those of the opposite gender, bisexual relationships, or none at all The Kinsey scale attempts to describe a person’s sexual history or episodes of their sexual activity at a given time. It uses a scale from O, meaning exclusively heterosexual, to 6, meaning exclusively homosexual. We will write a custom essay sample on Sexual Orientation or any similar topic only for you Order Now It is based on actual sexual behavior surveys. Research indicates that many lesbians and gay men want, and succeed in having, committed and durable relationships. For example, survey ata indicate that between 40% and 60% of gay men and between 45% and 80% of lesbians are currently involved in a romantic relationship. [110] Survey data also indicate that between 18% and 28% of gay couples and between 8% and 21% of lesbian couples in the U. S. have lived together ten or more years. 110] Studies have found same-sex and opposite-sex couples to be equivalent to each other in measures of satisfaction and commitment in relationships, that age and gender are more reliable than sexual orientation as a predictor of satisfaction and commitment to a relationship, and that people who are heterosexual or homosexual share comparable xpectations and ideals with regard to romantic relationships GENERAL Science has looked at the causes of homosexuality, and more generically the causes of human sexual orientation, with the general conclusions being related to biological and environmental factors. The biological factors that have been researched are genetic and hormonal, particularly during the fetal developmental period, that influence the resulting brain structure, and other characteristics such as handedness. [3][4] There are a wide range of environmental factors (sociological, psychological, or early uterine environment), and various biological factors, that may nfluence sexual orientation; though many researchers believe that it is caused by a complex interplay between nature and nurture, they favor biological models for the cause. Sexual orientation change efforts There are no studies of adequate scientific rigor to conclude whether sexual orientation change efforts work to change a person’s sexual orientation. Those efforts have been controversial due to tensions between the values held by some faith- based organizations, on the one hand, and those held by LGBT rights organizations and professional and scientific organizations and other faith-based organizations, on the other. ] The longstanding consensus of the behavioral and social sciences and the health and mental health professions is that homosexuality per se is a normal and positive variation of human sexual orientation, and therefore not a mental disorder. [9] The American Psychological Association says that â€Å"most people experience little or no sense of choice about their sexual orientation†. 1 56] Some individuals and groups have promoted the idea of homosexuality as symptomatic of developmental defects or spiritual and moral faili ngs and have argued that sexual orientation change efforts, including psychotherapy and religious efforts, could alter omosexual feelings and behaviors. Many of these individuals and groups appeared to be embedded within the larger context of conservative religious political movements that have supported the stigmatization of homosexuality on political or religious grounds. No major mental health protessional organization nas sanctioned efforts to change sexual orientation and virtually all of them have adopted policy statements cautioning the profession and the public about treatments that purport to change sexual orientation. Physical The terms â€Å"Men who have sex with men† (MSM) and â€Å"women who have sex with omen† (WSW) refer to people who engage in sexual activity with others of the same sex regardless of how they identify themselves†as many choose not to accept social identities as lesbian, gay and These terms are often used in medical literature and social research to describe such groups for study, without needing to consider the issues of sexual self-identity. The terms are seen as problematic, however, because they â€Å"obscure social dimensions of sexuality; undermine the self-labeling of lesbian, gay, and bisexual people; and do not sufficiently describe variations in sexual behavior† . 182] MSM and WSW are sexually active with each other for a variety of reasons with the main ones arguably sexual pleasure, intimacy and bonding. In contrast to its benefits, sexual behavior can be a disease vector. Safe sex is a relevant harm reductionphilosophy. 183] The United States currently prohibits men who have sex with men from donating blood â€Å"because they are, as a group, at increased risk for HIV, hepatitis B and certain other infections that can be transmitted by transfusion. â€Å"[ Public health These safer sex recommendations are agreed upon by public health officials for omen who have sex with women to avoid sexually transmitted infections (ST’s): Avoid contact with a partner’s menstrual blood and with any visi ble genital lesions. Cover sex toys that penetrate more than one person’s vagina or anus with a new condom for each person; consider using different toys for each person. Use a barrier (e. g. , latex sheet, dental dam, cut-open condom, plastic wrap) during oral sex. Use latex or vinyl gloves and lubricant for any manual sex that might cause bleeding. [186] These safer sex recommendations are agreed upon by public health officials for en who have sex with men to avoid sexually transmitted infections: Avoid contact with a partner’s bodily fluids and with any visible genital lesions. Use condoms for anal and oral sex. Use a barrier (e. g. , latex sheet, dental dam, cut-open condom) during anal-oral sex. Cover sex toys that penetrate more than one person with a new condom for each person; consider using different toys for each person and use latex or vinyl gloves and lubricant for any sex that might cause bleeding. Gay and lesbian youth See also: Suicide among LGBT youth Gay and lesbian youth bear an increased risk of suicide, substance abuse, school roblems, and isolation because of a â€Å"hostile and condemning environment, verbal and physical abuse, rejection and isolation from family and peers†. 192] Further, LGBT youths are more likely to report psychological and physical abuse by parents or caretakers, and more sexual abuse. Suggested reasons for this disparity are that (1) LGBT youths may be specifically targeted on the basis of their perceived sexual orientation or gender non-conforming appearance, and (2) that â€Å"risk factors associated with sexual minority status, including di scrimination, invisibility, and ejection by family members†¦ may lead to an increase in behaviors that are associated with risk for victimization, such as substance abuse, sex with multiple partners, or running away trom nome as a teenager. [ Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people in the Philippines have a distinctive culture but limited legal rights. Gays and lesbians are generally tolerated, if not accepted, within Filipino society, but there is still widespread discrimination. The most visible members of the Filipino LGBT culture, the Bakla, are a distinct group in the Philippines. According to he 2002 Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Survey, 11% of sexually active Filipinos between the ages of 15 and 24 have had sex with someone of the same sex. l] Filipino poet and critic Lilia Quindoza Santiago has speculated that Filipino culture may have a more flexible concept of gender because kasarian, the Tagalog word for â€Å"gender†, is defined in less bi nary terms than the English word gender. [2] Kasarian means â€Å"kind, species, or genus†. [3] The English word gender originally also meant â€Å"kind†. Phil. Survey The Philippines has earned its ranking as one of few gay-friendly countries in the world. Of the 39 countries covered by a global survey, only 17 countries had majorities that accepted homosexuality, with the Philippines ranking at number 10 among the 17. Despite its religiosity, the Philippines is one of the countries in the world where the level of public â€Å"acceptance† of homosexuals is high, according to the results of the survey. The survey titled â€Å"The Global Divide on Homosexuality’ conducted by the Us-based Pew Research Center showed that 73 percent of adult Filipinos agreed with the statement that â€Å"homosexuality should be accepted by society,† up by nine percentage points from 2002. The percentage of Filipinos who aid society should not accept gays fell from 33 percent in 2002 to 26 percent this year, it added. This high level of acceptance, which is comparable to that found in secular western Europe, is even higher than those found in Japan (54 percent), South Korea (39 percent) or the United States (60 percent), where some states allow gay marriage. â€Å"Brazilians and Filipinos are considerably more tolerant of homosexuality than their countries’ relatively high levels of religiosity would suggest,† the Pew survey report said. The Philippines bucked the trend found in the survey showing that gays are mostly accepted in rich and secularized countries. The survey finds that acceptance of homosexuality is particularly widespread in countries where religion is less central in people’s lives. These are also among the richest countries in the world,† the Pew report said. â€Å"In contrast, in poorer countries with high levels of religiosity, few believe homosexuality should be accepted by society,† it added. Religiosity scale The Philippines is said to be one of the most religious countries in the world and almost a third of its population lives below the poverty line. In the surveys â€Å"religiosity scale† where a score of â€Å"3† was the most religious, the Philippines almost got 2. 5. â€Å"Age s also a factor in several countries, with younger respondents offering far more tolerant views than older ones,† the survey report said. And while gender differences are not prevalent, in those countries where they are, women are consistently more accepting of homosexuality than men,† it added. In the Philippines, 78 percent of those aged 18-29 who were interviewed said gays should be accepted, 71 percent for those aged 30-49, and 68 percent for those 50 years old and above, according to the survey. The report also showed that of the eight countries surveyed in the Asia-Pacific region, the Philippines nad the second highest cceptance rate next to Australia’s 79 percent. â€Å"In the Asia-Pacific region, where views of homosexuality are mostly negative, more than seven in 10 in Australia and the Philippines say homosexuality should be accepted by society,† the report said. In contrast, only three percent of people in neighboring Indonesia, nine percent in Malaysia and 21 percent in China said homosexuality should be accepted, the report added. Not impressed However, Filipino gay groups were not impressed by the survey results. When asked if the gay community in the Philippines felt accepted, Jonas Bagas, executive director of the TLF Share Collective, said: â€Å"Hardly. â€Å"l think that the study only reflects the perceived acceptance of the LGBT community based on the high visibility of gay entertainers. It’s acceptance [that is] contingent on how you fit the acceptable stereotype†the gay entertainer, the creative, talented bakla, the lesbian security guard,† Bagas said. â€Å"Once you go outside these stereotypes, that’s when you encounter rejection,† he added. Bagas said a Filipino student in a lesbian relationship faces higher probability of getting kicked out of her school than a student in a heterosexual relationship. â€Å"We still have strong biases against gay sex, which for any is still deemed immoral and unnatural. This attitude fosters inequality in our laws, in education, healthcare and even within the family,† Bagas said. The Pew report said those who conducted the survey had face-to-face interviews with 804 Filipinos aged 18 and above from March 10 to April 3 this year. The interviews were conducted in Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilonggo, Ilocano and Bicolano. The survey had a margin of error of plus or minus 4. 5 percent. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people in the Philippines have a distinctive culture but limited legal rights. Gays and lesbians are generally tolerated, f not accepted, within Filipino society, but there is still widespread discrimination. The most visible members of the Filipino LGBT culture, the Bakla, are a distinct group in the Philippines. According to the 2002 Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Survey, 11% of sexually active Filipinos between the ages of 15 and 24 have had sex with someone of the same sex. l] Filipino poet and critic Lilia Quindoza Santiago has speculated that Filipino culture may have a more flexible concept of gender because kasarian, the Tagalog word for â€Å"gender†, is defined in less binary terms than the English word gender. 2] Kasarian means â€Å"kind, species, or genus†. [3] The English word gender originally also meant â€Å"kind†. A bakla is a gay man who displays feminine mannerisms, dresses as a woman, or identifies as a woman. The term itself is not the equivalent of the English term but bakla are the most culturally visible subset of gay men in the Philippines. They are often considered a third gender, embodying femaleness (pagkababae) in a male body. [5][6] The term bakla is sometimes used in a derogatory sense, although bakla people have largely embraced it. Bakla individuals are socially and economically integrated into Filipino society and re considered an important part of society. The stereotype of a bakla is a parlorista, a cross-dresser who works in a beauty salon. [7] Miss Gay Philippines is a beauty pageant for bakla. Slang terms for LGBT people and concepts In the Philippines, the term gay is used in reference to any LGBT person. For Filipino gays, the Tagalog phrase paglaladlad ng kapa (â€Å"unturling the cape†), or more commonly Just paglaladlad(â€Å"unfurling† or â€Å"unveiling†) refers to the coming- out process. Tibo, T-Bird and tomboy are derogatory terms for butch lesbians Just as bakla is for effeminate gay men. Some lesbians, both butch and femme, use the erms magic or shunggril to refer to themselves. [4] Neutral slang terms for gay men include billy boy, badette, bading, and paminta (straight-acting gay man). While many of these terms are generally considered derogatory, they are sometimes used casually or Jokingly within the Filipino gay and lesbian community. For example, gay men often refer to their gay friends as bakla when talking to each other. Swardspeak[edit] Main article: Swardspeak This article may be confusing or unclear to readers. Please help us clarify the article; suggestions may be found on the talk page. (October 2013) Swardspeak, or â€Å"gay lingo†, s a cant slang derived from Englog (a Tagalog-English pidgin) and is used by a number of homosexuals in the Philippines. 12] Swardspeak uses elements fromTagalog, English, Spanish and Japanese, as well as celebrities’ names and trademark brands, giving them new meanings in different contexts. [13] It is largely localized within gay communities and uses words derived from local languages or dialects, including Cebuano, Hiligaynon, Waray, Bicolano, and/or other Philippine languages. The use of Swardspeak once imm ediately identified the speaker as homosexual, making it easy for people of that orientation to recognize each other. This created an exclusive group among its speakers and helped them resist cultural assimilation. More recently, though, straight people have also started to use this way of speaking, particularly in industries dominated by gays, such as the fashion and film industries. LGBT Politics: In the Philippines, the Communist Party of the Philippines Marxist-Leninist and Maoist revolutionary proletarian party in the Philippines are the one and first to introduce and promote the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender. They recognize the LGBT as part of the bulk of the masses that can encourage and recruit for their revolutionary work. The revolutionary leader admitted that in their rank. The wide spread of sexual intercourse within their rank and same sex that brought their party principle to set a guideline for those belong with the LGBT’s. They also allow to married their fellow same sex revolutionary party member as long it will not affect their revolutionary task in the party organization. Document of the CPP-MLM guideline â€Å"Gabay Para sa Rebolusyunaryong Pakikipagrelasyon at Pagpapakasal† . Same-sex relationships data indicate that between ot gay men and between 4 expectations and ideals with regard to romantic relationships. How to cite Sexual Orientation, Papers Sexual Orientation Free Essays Recent research has concluded that sexual orientation, in both men and women, may play a significant role in the feelings of dissatisfaction of one’s physical appearance and the development and onset of disordered eating habits. Numerous studies have found that homosexual men have a higher likelihood of being more dissatisfied with their overall physical appearance. It is not so clear for homosexual women. We will write a custom essay sample on Sexual Orientation or any similar topic only for you Order Now In this paper I will review a number of published research article and try to more clearly explain the contrasting results about homosexual women. Although most of the studies look at an adult population, a study by French, Story, Remafedi, and Resnik, examined the effects of sexual orientation on an adolescent population. In their study they looked at a population based sample of about 35,000 students between the grades of seven and twelve. Each of these students completed a survey that asked questions about sexual orientation, body satisfaction, and different weight control measures. The final report included the findings from 212 heterosexual males and 182 heterosexual females for comparison with 81 self- identifying homosexual males and 38 self- identifying homosexual females, and 131 bisexual males and 144 bisexual females. They discovered that homosexual males were much more likely than heterosexual males to report having a poor body image (27.8% to 12%) and admit to frequent dieting (8.9% to 5.5%), binge eating (25.0% to 10.6%), or purging (11.7% to 4.4%). On the other side, homosexual females were more likely than heterosexual females to report that they were happy with the way that they looked (42.1% to 20.5%). Interestingly though, homosexual and heterosexual females were about equally as likely to diet, participate in binge eating, and partake in purging. Although the study seems to be appropriate, one must be wary about looking at a study, which was conducted through the use of surveys. This is particularly true when you are asking adolescents questions that deal with sexuality. It is possible that an adolescent’s embarrassment could be a factor in the answering of the questions. Social stereotypes could easily influence a heterosexual male to answer positively to questions about his body image because body angst is usually associated as a female behavior. This study is important to research on this topic because it shows that from the beginning of sexual orientation decisions, eating habits are a priority to some. Finicky and disordered eating problems are not something that develops later in life. It begins way before that. There are many explanations for why this could be true. Everyone knows about the pressures that are felt by children as they grow into adolescents. It is no surprise that these pressures are the driving forces behind the development of disordered eating habits. Numerous studies have shown that adolescent girls report body dissatisfaction, as a result of social comparison and teasing were diet triggers. Social comparison arises at an early age and pressures to conform and succeed in a school situation can cause some children to begin to focus on their physical appearance. It is no surprise that the media is so often blamed for this phenomenon, as they too often portray thinness as a symbol of beauty, success, and popularity. More common than the studies that look at adolescents are the ones that examine the relationships between eating habits and sexual orientation in adults. A study by Beren, Hayden, Wilfley, and Grilo successfully attempted to determine a link between body dissatisfaction and other associated variables with the affiliation of the homosexual community. In their study, they asked heterosexual and homosexual men and women to fill out the Body Shape Questionnaire, Body Dissatisfaction subscale of the Eating Disorders Inventory, Rosenberg Self- Esteem Scale (http://www.bsos.umd.edu/socy/rosenberg.htm), Expanded Social Pressure to Diet Scale, Involvement Questionnaire, and the Kinsey Scale (http://wwwcgi.indiana.edu/~kinsey/ak-hhscale.html). The researchers found that gay men felt more body dissatisfaction in comparison to heterosexual males. In contrast, the researchers found that there was little to no difference between lesbians and heterosexual women in these domains. A more recent article published in 1999, by Lakkis, Ricciardelli and Williams, announced slightly different findings. They agree with the earlier research that states that homosexual men are more likely to suffer from body dissatisfaction and dietary restraint, but they found that homosexual women scored lower than heterosexual women on these same areas. The reason for their findings is that they took a slightly different approach to their research. They administered tests to 266 participants, heterosexual and homosexual, male and female. They measured negative and positive gender traits, body dissatisfaction, the drive for thinness, dietary restraint, and bulimic symptoms. However, the differences in their results as compared to other studies were due to one other factor. While past studies had examined the relationship between body image and sexual orientation, this study looked at the relationship between sexual orientation and gender- related personality traits. In other words, they looked at the role of gender related personality traits or dimensions of masculinity and femininity. Their article says, â€Å"Gender traits are viewed as highly pertinent in the study of disordered eating because they provide one of the ways for studying the sociocultural context underlying disordered eating. Specifically, gender traits reflect stereotypes about the beliefs and behaviors typically attributed to men and women, which are acquired as they learn about the world and their roles in it.† They measured the dimensions of masculinity and femininity and compared these findings to the findings about body image. They discovered that in this study, lesbians scored significantly lower than the heterosexual women on all the disordered eating measures, body dissatisfaction, drive for thinness, and bulimia. However, it is important to note that regardless of the person’s sexual orientation, higher scores on the negative femininity scale correlated with higher scores on disordered eating. The phrase negative femininity is associated with negative, stereotypical, feminine behaviors such as passivity, dependence, submission, and lower self-esteem. One major problem with this study and others, although it is not certain as to how it affects the results, concerns the scales that are used to assess the desire for thinness and the susceptibility for bulimia were designed and developed for the assessment of women. For more accurate results, researchers should develop a scale for use by gay men. This would strengthen all of the arguments in these studies. The hypotheses that account for these differences between homosexual and heterosexual body image beliefs are sociocultural in nature. One explanation is that the lesbian subculture is more tolerant of different body sizes and shapes because it places less emphasis on thinness and attractiveness. Compare this to the gay subculture, which places great emphasis on a more lean and muscular body ideal and overall physical appearance. This hypothesis seems to offer a reasonable explanation. Another plausible hypothesis was suggested and researched by Siever in 1994. He suggests that gay men and heterosexual women are dissatisfied with their physical appearance because of the nature of the gender type that they seek out as a sexual partner. He researches and provides support for the idea that men place more of a priority on physical characteristics when looking for a sexual partner. On the other hand, women, when looking for a sexual partner, place more of an emphasis on factors such as personality, status, power, and income. This is consistent with evolutionary theories that deal with mate selection. A study by Schneider, O’Leary, and Jenkins looked at the risk of homosexual males for developing eating disorders. They recruited 2,000 people in the San Francisco Bay are to answer an anonymous questionnaire. The final sample that was used included seventy- five heterosexual females, twenty- five lesbians, seventy- five heterosexual men, and fifty gay men. Their research confirmed that heterosexual females and gay males were more likely to binge eat and have a feeling of lack of control surrounding food. They also found that gay males exercised more than any other group besides the lesbian population. Straight females desired to lose twice as many pounds as any other group, but in actuality, straight and lesbian females did not differ in actual weight. Overall, heterosexual males were the most overweight and the least concerned about their weight issues. Although this data does not explain why, it does show that the sociocultural expectations about physical appearance did in fact most greatly concern the populations who sought males as sexual partners. This goes back to the attributes that people seek when looking for a sexual partner. The research seems to confirm that both sexual orientation as well as the dimensions of femininity and masculinity predicts the tendency for body image dysmorphia and disordered eating practices. Because the research is correlational in nature, it is difficult to form a conclusion such as, â€Å"If you are a homosexual male, then you will have an eating disorder.† There are always confounding variables and outside explanations for these behaviors. The best conclusion that one can draw from these studies is that on a dimension of negative femininity, the more negative the femininity trait, the more likely that an eating disorder will develop, for the entire population as a whole. Obviously, there will be exceptions to this conclusion. How to cite Sexual Orientation, Essay examples Sexual Orientation Free Essays In our day and age, being of a sexual orientation other than heterosexual is somewhat common. Though it is definitely not considered a norm, it is more accepted in most parts of the world. A few years ago, people who were not heterosexual had to hide who they really were in order to be accepted by society. We will write a custom essay sample on Sexual Orientation or any similar topic only for you Order Now Because of this norm, one automatically assumes they are straight whether it comes to themselves or others. So how do homosexual/asexual people become conscious of their sexual orientation? In the same way that gender is a spectrum, sexuality is a spectrum as well. There are four distinct sexualities. Heterosexual, or straight, people are attracted to members of the opposite sex. Bisexuals are attracted to members of both genders. Homosexuals are attracted to people of the same sex. Homosexuals can be called gay, for both genders, or lesbian, for females only. The last sexuality is asexual, in which there is no attraction to either sexes. Psychologists say that sexuality is determined in the early stages of childhood but is not a conscious decision. Basically, people are born with their sexuality. That being said, many parents assume there might be something off about their child if they show interest in activities meant for the opposite sex. If their little girl doesn’t like to dress up and would rather play in the dirt, parents start to get suspicious. If their little boy likes dolls and is not all that interested in going outside or playing video games, parents think there’s a possibility of them being gay. But a very important thing to understand about sexuality is that there is no way to tell what sexuality someone is just by how masculine or feminine they are. That is because, like afore mentioned, gender is a spectrum. There are gay men that are very masculine but then some that are also extremely feminine. There are lesbians that seem like straight girls to there because they aren’t as masculine as the stereotypical lesbian. This applies to other sexualities as well. Straight men and women can also be very feminine or masculine, respectively. Personality and curiosity does not completely determine one’s sexuality. Sexuality is not something that can be changed. People tend to suppress their feelings if they aren’t straight, but that does not change who they really are. Many think that going to therapy can ‘fix’ a gay/bi/asexual person, but that does not do anything either. It is not an illness, a mental disorder, or a problem of any sort. Just like being straight, ices who they are. Trying to change someone has proven to be not only ineffective, but also possibly damaging. Nadine and Vain are straight, and they know this based on the pure fact that they aren’t attracted to girls. This wasn’t a hard thing for them to realize because that sexuality is what is expected. Both have straight parents, and a majority of straight friends. There was never a need for them to have to realize that they were something different, because according to society, they are normal. But someone who doesn’t feel anything for the opposite sex, or feels for everyone, or no one at all, how do they know? After hearing the experiences of many internet sensations who have come out as being gay such as Connors Franca, Troy Siva, and Tyler Oakley (major supporter of GSA [Gay Straight Alliance]), we learned that they always knew that they were a little different, supporting work by psychologists at the American Psychiatric Association. In Connors case, he was not able to pinpoint exactly what was different about him until he was 12 years old, when he just randomly thought, â€Å"What if I’m game At 22, he did not come to terms with his sexuality until this year. Throughout high school, he dated girls to did his sexuality, primarily lying to himself. Once he finally allowed himself to accept it, he realized that his friends and family would support him no matter what, and that was when he stopped suppressing his feelings. Connors hid his feelings in fear that people would treat him differently and rightly so. People with an ‘uncommon’ sexuality are discriminated and hated against around the world. The U. S. Is one of the most accepting countries for these people, but there are still hate crimes committed against them. Forget the crimes, gay people are not even allowed to openly serve in the U. S. Military. Until gently, Openly gay boys Were not allowed in Boy Scouts. Even now, if the boys are all staying in the same area, the gay boys have to stay in a separate area. Learning about all these things would definitely add to a person’s confusion and cause them to suppress their emotions. Once social stigma against homo/bi/a-sexual people stops, they can be more comfortable with whom they are and the coming out process will be much easier. Once they realize what their feelings mean, the transition of their sexuality from subconscious to fully aware will become smoother and that is something we as a species should be aiming for. How to cite Sexual Orientation, Papers

Little Women Essay Example For Students

Little Women Essay Little women book reportIn 1868, Louisa May Alcott wrote the book Little Women inresponse to a publishers request for a girls book'. Louisa wrotethis book by calling upon her own memories of her childhood and puttingthem down on paper. This is the story of four young girls, Meg, Jo, Beth,and Amy March, and how they endure all the trouble and hardships that comealong during their lives. They are raised by their mother and by theirfather, and many interesting characters pop up along the way, such asLaurie, their good-natured next-door neighbor; Laurie later falls in lovewith Jo but ends up marrying Amy. In the beginning of the story they areall fairly young, the youngest being twelve years old, and their mother,whom they call Marmee, is left to guide them while their father is awayfighting in the war. As they grow and mature, they learn many hardlessons about life. For instance, there was the time when Amy, theyoungest, suffered her first punishment in school. She carries thatanger, hu mility, and embarrassment with her for the rest of her life. There were also more serious lessons to be learned, like when one of thesisters, Beth, dies. By the end of the book, they really have turned fromlittle women into real women. Jo was the second oldest of the four sisters. Her birth name wasJosephine, but she always thought that it sounded too feminine, so sheshortened it to Jo. Clearly, Jo was one of the main characters of thestory because many of the events centered on her and the audience learnedmore about who she was. She was a tomboy at heart and hated all the primand proper ways of the ladies in those days. Jo was very blunt in herspeaking and always said exactly what was on her mind. However, mostpeople felt right at ease speaking with her because she had a way ofmaking them feel comfortable, despite her frankness. Jo was the one whofirst had enough courage to go over to the frightening house next door andtalk with the Laurence Boy, whom they knew as Laurie after that, andbecame the best of friends with him. Despite that one good trait, Jo hasan uncontrollable temper that can erupt at any time. This is quiteevident one day when Amy burns one of Jos most precious items-a book thatshe wrote stories in and had for years. She is so outraged that shecannot even look Amy in the face and storms out of the house. Jo thenwatches as Amy follows her and Laurie outside to a pond to go ice-skating. Laurie warns Jo that the ice is very thin in the middle, but Amy does nothear him and proceeds to skate into the center. Jo does nothing to stopher. Amy almost died that day, and Jo realized that her selfishness andanger almost cost her her own sister. Mrs. March then teaches Jo how tocontrol her temper, and that was one of the most valuable lessons she everlearned. Jo has the ability to see things as they are. She can seethrough any kind of facade, and she will never put up a facade of her own. As they say in France, Elle est la cr*me de la cr*me. She is the bestof the best. Another character that is very important yet was not seen verymuch was Mrs. March, the girls mother. Mrs. March was a very emotionallystrong woman who would give up anything for someone else. She is veryaware of how her daughters are feeling. Their father is at war, and theyno longer have the money that they once had. Mrs. March makes sure thather children count the blessings that they do have and that they do notcomplain. Continuously yearning for more makes one unappreciative of whathe already has. She demands authority, yet is gentle as a small mouse. .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f , .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f .postImageUrl , .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f , .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f:hover , .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f:visited , .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f:active { border:0!important; } .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f:active , .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uc6e35665709fd36016f8e7795776396f:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Is Junk Food Really Cheaper? EssayShe is actually both father and mother to the girls because although herhusband does come home later in the book, he is rarely seen. Mrs. Marchand Jo are actually quite alike. They both have spitfire tempers, andthey both know how to get their point across tactfully. Mrs. Marchprovides wisdom and advice and guides her daughters down the straight andnarrow path toward happy and fulfilling lives. There are two themes to this book. The first one is that familyis everything in a persons life. A family is there for when a person issoaring above the stars, and they are there to pick him up again when hefalls. It is very difficult to get through life without a caring andloving family to offer support in all of lifes experiences. Thoseblessed with this precious gift rarely seem to appreciate it to the fullextent that they should. The second theme of this book shows that nomatter how hard situations get and how much turmoil life deals out, no oneshould ever give up. Everyone goes through tough times, but perseveranceand a good attitude will fend off the blows life delivers everyday. Little Women is definitely a classic that will continue on throughthe ages. Everyone should read this book once before theyre too old andhardened to appreciate it. This book set a precedent for how all goodliterature should be written. From this book Ive learned how to pick upand get on with my life after something bad happens. If the Marches cancarry on after the death of their sister Beth, then the common man shouldbe able to go on after smaller challenges entrap him. Mankind shouldalways love and support each other in all areas of life, and maybe thiswill make this world just a little more pleasant in which to live.

Muhammad Ali Essays (670 words) - Muhammad Ali, Fight Of The Century

Muhammad Ali He grew up in a poor family. Ali had problems in school at an early stage and felt he had to do something different. His future career was fulfilled at 12. When Joe Martin police officer and boxing coach, tried to get Ali started with boxing. At the age of 16, Ali had won two Golden Glove Titles, two National AAU Titles, he was by now nationally recognized. When the 1960 Rome Olympic Game was about to take off, Ali was provided with an opportunity to represent his country. At this point he had fought 103 amateur matches, and had only lost five. Ali went with Olympic team to Rome, and ended winning the gold medal. When he got back to his hometown, Louisville, he thought that he was going to be treated as a champion, but he still was discriminated by the white society. Ali decided to throw his Olympic gold medal into the Ohio River because of his anger about the racism in his hometown. By the age of 22 Ali had a professional boxing record of 19-0. On February 25, 1964, Ali got the heavyweight title shot. Through all the media he was considered to be the "underdog". Before the fight Ali used the media to psyche Sonny Liston. He predicted that " Sonny will fall in four". Ali entered the ring as a 7-1 underdog to the Champ Sonny Liston. Ali used his speed and movement to thoroughly outbox the champion. Ali became the second youngest champion in history. After the fight Ali told the world that his name was now Muhammad Ali and that he had joined the Nation of Islam. It put a great effect on his boxing career. As the champ he realized his popularity in society, and he used it to his power to speak for the Civil Rights. He became a political symbol of the black society, and maybe most influential beside Martin Luther King and Malcolm X. During the next three years, he defended his title nine times with Ernie Terrell and then became the undisputed Heavyweight Champion. On April 28, 1967, the army for the induction of the military service to fight in the Vietnam War drafted Muhammad Ali. He refused to step forward when they called his name because of the religious beliefs. He was immediately stripped of the heavyweight title, and got a five year sentence to serve in prison, which was he appealed right away. He had no more fight in 1967, 1968, and 1969. Ali said he could not fight in the war because of his religious beliefs. He already taken the army test and score 35 percentile, and to qualify you needed at least a 55 or higher. Then most people were drafted through the ages of 18-22, and he was 25. What he did made him even more popular in his society, then they overturned his conviction. In 1970 he made his first fight back and he didn't lose a step on his skills. His rep gave him a title shot against Joe Frazier, the fight was known as the fight of the century. That was when he suffered his first pro lose. In October 30, 1974, it was Ali vs. Forman a match that everyone had waited for. It was held in Zaire and it was nicknamed "the rumble in the jungle", and once again he was the underdog. People where actually feared for his safety because it was know that Forman was the hardest puncher in boxing history. Ali ended up winning the fight by KO, and once again the heavyweight champ. It was the third match between Joe Frazier and Ali, and it was going to be known as "The Thrilla In Manilla". That was his hardest fight of his career. Then he lost the title in 1978 against Leon Spinks, but got it back 8 months later. He announced his retirement on June 27, 1979. He left boxing with a professional record of; 56 wins and 5 loses. Now he suffers from Parkinson's disease, and still does a lot of charity work. He just might have had the greatest success in sports history. Ali wanted to everyone to know that he was the greatest, I think he did just that.

The modern business environment and embracing modern technologies for further economic gain The WritePass Journal

The modern business environment and embracing modern technologies for further economic gain 1. Introduction The modern business environment and embracing modern technologies for further economic gain 1. Introduction1.1 What is the problem?1.2 What is the purpose of this study?1.2.1 What are the SME’s barriers to entry?1.2.2 Existing benefits achieved by SME’s1.2.3 SME’s adoption of technology2. Literature Review2.1 The UK market2.2 Barriers2.2.1 E-commerce growth and development2.2.1 The Role of UK Government in the growth of e-commerce2.2.3 Perceived barriers to e-commerce adoption2.2.4 E-Readiness2.3 Benefits2.3.1 Economic Benefits2.3.2 Illusions and Promises2.3.3 Do or Die: Internationalisation2.3.4 M-Commerce2.3.5 Benefits for UK SME’s2.4   E-commerce adoption2.4.1   Levels of adoption2.4.2 Stages of adoption2.4.3   Influencing factors of adoption3.   Methodology   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   3.1 Philosophy3.2 Qualitative V Quantitative3.3 Approaches3.4 Strategies3.5 Choices of methodReference ListRelated 1. Introduction 1.1 What is the problem? In recent times, there has been an intense underlying issue regarding the amount of businesses within the UK that are not adapting to the modern business environment and embracing modern technologies for further economic gain. Noted by the office for National statistics (2009) that 76% of the UK’s business claimed to have a website, yet only 15% had completed transactions online. Furthermore, the issue lies deep within the fundamental business characteristics and the way in which businesses choose to operate and compete, leading to online sales via websites known as e-commerce, reaching  £115bn in 2009. Figures from the same study also demonstrate that the predicament shows no sign of slowing as e-commerce sales increased by 23% from 2008 to 2009, showing a rise of  £22bn, suggesting that many businesses are missing the chance to join the online market place whereby opportunities for the growth of a business appear limitless (Scupola, 2003). Rosenbloom (2004, cited in Harrison Waite, 2005) proposed that e-commerce technology is now viewed as an integral part of marketing channels and distribution systems. However the UK government acknowledges that there is a slow uptake of e-commerce in SME’s, particularly among micro businesses (UK Online, 2002) whereby many of the UK’s SME’s may be left behind, leaving the larger companies to dominate the e-commerce world (Harrison et al, 2005). Furthermore, the issue is emphasised through the suggestions of Julia (2002) stating that small and medium-sized businesses (SME’s) make substantial contributions to national economies and account for an estimated 80% of global economic growth (Julia et al, 2002). This document aims to identify the numerous relevant factors preventing the assimilation of e-commerce and the capitalisation of its benefits within the UK’s SME’s.   Conversely, the research also attempts to outline the previous benefits founded with its adoption and the current levels of practice within the recognised SME’s. Such known benefits may provide motivation and incentives for the apprehensive SME’s who are failing to embrace the advances in technology, as well as offering a range of potential opportunities for any traditional organisation to engage in the e-commerce transition whereby a business can ‘dominate the electronic channel and thereby control access to customers and set terms of trade’ (Walters Lancaster, 1999, p800 cited in Harrison, 2005). Following similar research in more economically developed countries such as USA, Canada and Australia appear to have made more progress as they have become the global leaders in e-commerce assimilation (Norton, 2000, cited in Quayle, 2002). This investigation will discuss whether these barriers and benefits still exist or that SME’s have adapted to the modern business environment and have effectively engaged in e-commerce. Consequently, have further beneficial or detrimental factors emerged and influenced integration of internet based transactions. 1.2 What is the purpose of this study? For the purpose of this investigation, the term e-commerce will be used in the true sense of its concept and not divulge into the notion of electronic business (e-business). It will however include activities such as electronic mail (e-mail) and mobile commerce (m-commerce) whereby their fundamentals coincide with the essential aspects of e-commerce. The primary purpose of this investigation is to identify the barriers in the UK’s SME’s in their adoption of e-commerce.   These identified barriers may differ from those faced in other countries, regardless of economic development.   In addition, this paper will study the benefits found once the e-commerce transition has taken place and how they may have become advantageous to any developing SME.   It also aims to analyse the results and test them against the findings established within other international SME’s. Throughout this analysis, the paper will thoroughly investigate and critique the growth of the UK’s SME’s and how e-commerce has enabled it to do so. 1.2.1 What are the SME’s barriers to entry? This study aims to investigate the way in which SME’s perceive e-commerce and devise a catalogue of factors that provide obstacles for its adoption.   In doing so, the author aims to bring these issues in view of both business and governmental organisations, with the focus on those assisting SME’s to further contribute to both the local and global economy. Whether these issues exist in reality or are just ignorant perceptions, the fact of the matter is that these issues still appear to hinder the assimilation of e-commerce within SME’s. Barriers to adoption can occur for numerous reasons and many issues are inter-related, however, they will not be restricted to only the following factors: INTERNAL Start up costs Technical knowledge/computer literacy Access to technology Security of technology EXTERNAL Business partner(s) access to technology Lack of governmental support (Kshetri, N, 2007) In addition to the primary aim, the secondary goal is to try and locate relationships between these barriers and whether or not they have a direct correlation with the demographic and financial features of the external environment. Furthermore, it will also attempt to identify any linkages between previous barriers and the technological affluence or perception of SME’s directors as previous research has shown that the owner’s opinion of e-commerce has a major influence on its possible implementation, and if so, what benefits does it bring. 1.2.2 Existing benefits achieved by SME’s This investigation will recognise the major benefits already achieved by SME’s who have utilised the capabilities of engaging in e-commerce. These benefits may need to be analysed by budding SME’s or MSME’s (micro, small medium enterprises) or any developing business for that matter, in order to fully understand, make relevant and integrate e-commerce successfully within their organisation. This investigation can also be used for governmental organisations to utilise e-commerce as an adaption of its services that supply SME’s, which will in turn provide benefits to both stakeholders involved. This may potentially lead to a future development of electronic infrastructure, which will in turn greater it’s usage and by virtue of EOS (economies of scale) will lead to an increased level of economic efficiency. This study will address those benefits but will not be constrained by such: Increased audience levels (market reach) Reduce cycle time Higher levels of turnover Increased productivity Lower marketing and distribution costs Competitive advantage Increased profit margin New business opportunities (Daniel Wilson, 2002) These existing benefits will provide a basis to identify any trends with the demographic data found, along with its barriers. This information will also be examined in comparison to the technological perception of the directors of a given enterprise in order to understand whether or not the attitude of the director directly influences the benefits achieved, similar to that of the director’s perceptions and previous success within the business environment. 1.2.3 SME’s adoption of technology In order to grasp the usage of technology within SME’s, the author has made efforts to discover more about businesses that have embraced technology and how they may be putting to use the advantages of the internet. The levels of adoption and the processes put in place in order to assimilate, as well as the trends of usage are all imperative to the overall validity of the investigation. Although the author earlier conveyed that the study will concentrate on the true definitive characteristics of e-commerce, in order to fully investigate the usage and perceptions of e-commerce, the study must consider aspects of e-business to fully identify and understand the correlation of internet usage and the potential benefits it possesses. Furthermore, the study will advance deeper and discuss whether or not linkages exists in the technological affluence, literacy or perception of the SME’s director and the benefits and barriers achieved through the adoption of e-commerce. 2. Literature Review 2.1 The UK market Throughout the investigation, the author noticed that the majority of research was conducted in more economically developed countries (MEDC’s), with the United States being most popular. However, this study aims to conduct the majority of its research within the UK environment as well as delving into the international and emerging markets whereby the growth of e-commerce is still primarily at an elemental level. Although that particular research is valid, it merely aims to provide a contrasting statistical viewpoint to that found in the UK. Studies by Benjamin (2000) and Pulley and Sessa (2001) indicate that there is a limited amount of analysis of e-commerce in SME’s, however there is a wider acceptance on a number of factors. In particular, SME’s who are determined to achieve a competitive advantage require an improvement in levels of e-commerce and the need to develop credible approaches for its implementation.   Further studies conducted by Standing and Sto ckdale (2003) emphasised further issues of concern whereby the ‘motivation for adoption and use of e-commerce by SME’s are overlooked and underestimated’ (Standing et al, 2003. p;2). Further issues within the same study indicated concern surrounding categorised groupings of SME’s and their perceptions to adoption. In contrast to the UK market for e-commerce, in developing areas of the world, including countries such as Egypt, research has show that ‘governments have been eager to apply the emerging information and communication technologies to join the world in the development and realization of the digital economy’ (Kamel and Hussein, 2002. P;2). Therefore, e-commerce growth in Egypt and other developing countries may decide to utilise the research and examples of that in the UK in order to greater the adoption levels within SME’s. Conversely, UK governments may choose to analyse the way in which developing countries introduce e-commerce and its technological infrastructure in order to fully understand what factors they provide as benefits or barriers. Following the studies on the international and emerging markets, the author aims to reemphasise that this research is merely conveyed as a contrasting viewpoint in order to further understand the way in which e-commerce adoption in the UK is both perceived and achieved. 2.2 Barriers 2.2.1 E-commerce growth and development Originally, electronic commerce was identified as the facilitation of commercial transactions electronically, using technologies such as EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) and EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) in the 1970’s. Furthermore, increasing developments in technology in the 1980’s lead to the creation of ATM’s (Automated Teller Machines) and telephone banking which were also noticed as forms of electronic commerce. It wasn’t until 1990 that the development of the World Wide Web and the modern day internet also known as the ‘6th Continent’ by Yongxiang,   that the term coined e-commerce was specifically designated to the exchange transactions which take place over the internet, including buying and selling of information, service or goods (Schniederjans, 2002). Since the conceptualisation of e-commerce, researches have studied the barriers that exist which may prevent its adoption within SME’s. Whether these barriers physically exist in reality or whether they are merely a perception, the facts remains that they still provide an obstacle for e-commerce assimilation within the UK’s SME’s. Studies conducted by Cragg and King (1997, cited in Shah et al, 2000) discovered that the strongest inhibiting factors to SME adoption include lack of ICT knowledge, lack of managerial time and limited financial resources. All of which factors appear to apply to resistance to change and possibly suggest an underestimation of the potential benefits to its adoption. Further studies by Dowler and Lawrence-Slater (1998) highlight ‘technological phobia’ and ‘no perceived benefits’ as realistic barriers. Since these studies were conducted at an elemental stage of e-commerce, further investigations have been carried out since. Investigations undertaken by Marshall and Mckay (2002) found that in recent times, SME’s are reluctant to adopt due to difficulties identifying and measuring costs, benefits and risks associated with IT adoption and investment. Furthermore, research conducted by Edwards (2007) and Hudson et al (2007) indicated that the lack of strategy for evaluation was also a major inhibiting factor to adoption.   Although all studies identified provide valid and important evidence, it is the most recent information that supplies the most pertinent, as it considers factors within the modern business environment in comparison to those noted within the primary stages of e-commerce development. 2.2.1 The Role of UK Government in the growth of e-commerce In order to fully investigate the role that government plays in the adoption of e-commerce, the author aims to find out whether they are an enabler of its adoption or a characteristic of its barriers. A study by Keindl (2000) portrays that SME’s are generally unwilling to develop e-commerce strategies or to change their current business models, despite the government introducing campaigns such as the CW2000 project, a European funded project to encourage internet adoption amongst SME’s in the West Midlands of the UK. As discussed earlier, there remain a variety of barriers to the adoption of e-commerce and regardless of the government initiatives, certain barriers still exist and are chiefly found within the internal features of an organisation. Kshetri (2007), stating that start up costs and the relevance of e-commerce within a particular SME to be key factors in its adoption. Furthermore, additional research by Beckinsdale and Levy (2004) reported that neither pressure from competitors within the same business environment or governmental initiatives provides any pressure upon the adoption of e-commerce, and that the chief reasoning for its assimilation is concerned with customer satisfaction. As a result of these findings, certain infrastructure should be implemented in order enable to the transition of adoption as it appears that governmental frameworks are unable to do so. 2.2.3 Perceived barriers to e-commerce adoption Early studies by Tonatzky and Klein (1982) found that innovation is more likely to be adopted when it is compatible with an individual’s job responsibility and value system. Although this study portrays a vague acceptance of innovation, it is definitely applicable to e-commerce as an innovative entity and its adoption and application within a value system, or for the purpose of the study, SME’s. Further studies conducted by Ratnasingam (2001, cited in Hussin, 2005) to identify factors that may discourage adoption include the perceived lack of security, customer readiness, organisational inertia and lack of knowledge. Additional studies by Darch and Lucas (2002) also conveys the perceived barriers to adoption as lack of awareness to what e-commerce actually involves and lack of e-commerce related skills. Therefore, adoption is far more complex than earlier studies portrayed and is a decision that involves a variety of interconnected issues, which include both internal and external factors. Adoption therefore, must be seen as a gradual process, rather than an individual occasion and will be discussed further in the levels and stages of adoption sections. 2.2.4 E-Readiness E-readiness is genuinely defined as the degree to which a society is prepared to participate in the digital economy with the underlying concept that the digital economy can help build a better society (Krull, 2003). Krull makes reference to society as a whole, but for purpose of the study, the author will understand the society as being an organisation or SME.   Huang et al (2004) describes e-readiness for enterprises important and that it will lead them to a more positive direction in managing their relationships with key stakeholders as well as providing the opportunity to access quality information, reduce the digital divide and create new business opportunities (Kurnia, 2008 cited in Krull, 2003). According to the e-readiness rankings report (2009) the UK is placed 13 suggesting SME’s are in a good position to adopt e-commerce as all the foundations are in place. 2.3 Benefits Significant levels of research into the realisation of SME benefits of e-commerce adoption have been conducted thoroughly in recent times. A report conducted by Poon and Swatman (1999) regarding the benefits achieved refers to the fact that e-mail and document transfer have both been useful to SME’s. Since then, e-commerce and researchers have moved on, with many authors agreeing on the benefits of e-commerce, however further discussions have arisen in regards to the way in which benefits are not achieved automatically. Wilson, Daniel and Davies (2006) stating that adoption does not however, of itself, guarantee that the intended business benefits will be achieved.   They are also of the opinion that, along with Pawar and Driver (2000, cited in Quayle, 2002) who also conducted similar studies, that despite the awareness of potential benefits, not every firm is ready to embrace e-commerce as a business tool. 2.3.1 Economic Benefits Once the adoption process takes place, there are two main benefits that a SME can expect, economical and strategical. For the purpose of the study, the author will concentrate upon the economic benefits incurred through the adoption of e-commerce.   With the UK’s total spend through e-commerce reaching nearly  £56billion in 2010 (IMRG, Capgemini, 2010) and expectations for the market to grow by 110% in the next decade, the financial benefits are obvious. Studies conducted in the UK’s SME’s by Clegg et al (2001) concluded that three issues are likely to have an effect on the uptake of the internet by SME’s was the perceived benefits, organisational readiness and external pressures. However, Dongen et al (2002) argued that much of the literature supposes that ICT adoption is for opportunistic reasons, such as cost, rather than for strategic reasons. Furthermore, recent surveys suggest that the main reason for adoption amongst UK’s SME’s is to increase sales (Actinic, 2002 cited in Simpson et al, 2004). Although literature suggests that the chief reasoning behind e-commerce adoption is for financial benefit, the actual reality of attaining economic growth is difficult to achieve. Furthermore, the research by DTI (2001b) suggest that the financial benefits come about through the reduction in expenditure and the increase of opportunity gain, as advertising costs can be reduced through having a web presen ce. 2.3.2 Illusions and Promises Additional studies by Chrysostome and Rosson (2004) support the fact that it is certainly difficult to attain economic benefits. Subsequently, they devised a framework, consisting of eight factoring suggestions that convey both the illusions and promises of the growth UK SME’s and they’re engagement in the international market. They highlight the view that not all expectations of innovative advancements are recognised, with an example of the invention of the printing press in 1450. They suggest that many of the perceived benefits are illusions while promises are realistic and attainable benefits through the process of adoption. 4 Illusions: MARKET PENETRATION (difficult international market) GLOBAL COMPETITION (intensity) COSTS (difficult to attain) LEGALITY DIFFERENCES (foreign trade laws) 4 Promises: SPEED OF MARKET ENTRY (instant) VARIETY OF MARKETS (penetrate numerous markets) ENTRY MODE (choice = minimised risk) INTER-ORGANISATIONAL NETWORKS (reduced costs) Chrysostome and Rosson (2004) 2.3.3 Do or Die: Internationalisation The rate of the occurrence of Internationalisation for an organisation is an important characteristic in any neo-classical approach. Furthermore, in evolutionary theories, stage by stage development is considered necessary so that cautious progress can be made, ensuring that an enterprise can build resources, gain knowledge of international markets and therefore develop a stronger capability (Chrysostome and Rosson, 2004). Added studies by Peterson et al (2002) found that the internet can speed up the rate of enterprise internationalisation, especially through the reduction in costs incurred by SME’s. As a result, SME’s should worry less about the amount of resources they have when aiming to penetrate the international market. This leads to the ‘Born Global’ concept derived from Knight and Cavusgil (1996) suggesting that SME’s can ‘leapfrog’ the primary stages of the neo-classical internationalisation process. Although numerous advantages exist through SME internationalisation, there is also an element of risk associated with its development. The most noticeable barriers reported by SME’s are included in the Internationalisation report of European SME’s (2010). The reports illustrates that the barriers exist in two separate categories, internal and external. INTERNAL Price of own product or service High cost of Internationalisation EXTERNAL Lack of capital Lack of adequate information Lack of adequate public support Costs/difficulties with extended transport partnerships Although the majority of the barriers are objective, sum issues within the external barriers are perceived and do not necessarily exist in reality. Consequently, UK SME’s are generally not aware of the existence of public support programmes for internationalisation (Mendoza et al, 2001). Having discussed the promises that e-commerce adoption and its ability to internationalise a business, the author will now examine the illusions that appear to be embedded within the perception of UK SME’s. Large scale global competition lies waiting for those SME’s who aim to utilise the internet as a tool for internationalisation. Fillis (2002) found that exporting SME’s in the UK experienced pricing and promotion difficulties in regards to those displayed by competitors. This was a greater problem for those who rely upon the internet as its main operational medium. As the enterprises discussed are relatively small in capacity, they’re limited resources make it difficult to match competitors budgets and prices (Sawhney and Mandal, 2000). As well as the intense internet global competition, the so called ‘savings’ will now be discussed. Contrary to the perceptions of budding SME’s, online business incurs significant levels of cost. In contrast to view that the internet generates cost savings, in reality, these savings are far less noteworthy than initially thought and studies by Fattori (2001) state that in many cases, SME’s have actually experienced higher costs. This is largely accurate for SME’s who have penetrated the international market as Heart and Priskin (2002) state that internet costs savings are cited to most often occur in paperwork, customer service, intermediation and advertising and promotion. However, they also conveyed that the actual savings incurred differed with the size of an enterprise. Further studies showed that larger companies were more likely to save in customer service where as SME’s were expected to save on advertising and promotional costs (Riquelme, 2002).   Apart from these potential variant costs, other costly expenditures exist with the initial creatio n of internet based commerce. These costs consist of website creation, including software and hardware, maintenance and updating and website translation or cultural adjustments should the SME wish to penetrate the international market (Chrysostome and Rosson, 2004). Futhermore, a standard 10 page website with e-commerce capabilities may cost around  £2500 with additional fees for forums, interactivity, Search engine optimization (SEO) and content management [www.toucher.co.uk/website-price, cited in 2011]. 2.3.4 M-Commerce Tiwari (2007) defines Mobile Commerce as any transaction, involving the transfer of ownership or rights to use goods and services, which is initiated and/or completed by using mobile access to computer-mediated networks with the help of an electronic device. As Tiwari explains, m-commerce has the same basic definition as e-commerce, however is achieved with portable technology. Since its origination in 1997 through mobile-phone enabled Coca-Cola vending machines in Finland, using SMS text messages to receive payment, the mobile industry has revolutionised the portability of business transactions (Ahonen, 2002). In recent times, m-commerce has developed greatly and since the invention of Apples, Iphone in 2007, the levels of purchase using a mobile devise has risen dramatically. Findings from the Broadbank m-commerce content report (2010) displayed that 46% of UK consumers had purchased using their mobile phone. Furthermore, Raicu (2001) believes that m-commerce provides numerous bene fits including independent access any time, access on demand anywhere and use of devises that suits the needs of the consumer, for example mobile phones, laptops or Tablets. As well as possessing all the attributes of e-commerce, Khosrow-Pour (2006) suggests that enterprises are using mobile devices to re-engineer and speed up internal and connecting business processes. Furthermore, Nysveen et al (2005) suggests that this is possible since employees and partners can connect to ‘back-end’ applications needing the finalise sales and in turn reducing the sales process and eliminates extra travelling costs. Therefore, a SME can utilise m-commerce in the same way as e-commerce with additional benefits of providing accessibility anytime, anywhere (Raicu, 2001). 2.3.5 Benefits for UK SME’s Following a plethora of literature regarding the concepts and potential of e-commerce, the question remains whether SME’s have benefited from its adoption. During the investigation process throughout this document, the author noticed that Poon (2002) and the degrees of success was a constant barometer.   Poon stated that there having been various levels of success and that they are the reasons why e-commerce is more important than ever before. These factors have included the reduction in the adoption process of e-commerce in regards to both hardware and software. Secondly, companies have learnt from either their own experience or the experiences of others and are now finding e-commerce adoption easier. Finally, the rise in resources and programmes offered, many from government provide assistance for SME’s. Although, many SME’s have utilised the adoption of e-commerce as previously discussed, Poon’s studies (2002) suggest that not all companies have benefited from it. Furthermore, even in favourable organisations with a respectable e-readiness, mixed success rates have been found, and those who have actually achieved benefits have either been insignificant or have had a short life span. 2.4   E-commerce adoption In recent times, numerous studies have been conducted to investigate the levels of e-commerce adoption for the purposes of SME’s. The focus of this research has concentrated upon three crucial factors: the level of adoption, the stages of adoption and the factors that inhibit or permit adoption. 2.4.1   Levels of adoption In order for an enterprise to fully understand the levels of adoption, the author will discuss Grewel’s (2001) classification model to support SME e-commerce adoption initiatives. Firstly, there is a risk in approaching the question of whether SMEs can be seen as a homogenous group in terms of e-commerce adoption, as there is a scarcity of literature. For example, while it is clear that the owner/manager is a significant driver for e-commerce adoption, it is only recently that research has begun to appear that investigates the motivations behind their move towards adoption (Levy and Powell, 2003). Therefore, for the purpose of the study, the author will use the model as a categorisation tool to homogenise SME’s theoretically. LEVEL 1: Landlubbers – SME’s have no intention of moving to the electronic environment. These businesses tend to be small, have little employees and occupy and small and stable market with no intention of expansion. LEVEL 2: Toe Dippers – SME’s that have basic computer needs and limited skills in using them. Unwillingness to expend beyond a minimal level but are of the view that the internet can be helpful for tasks on a day-to-day basis for use of e-mail and online banking. LEVEL 3: Paddlers – Participants of e-commerce and are sometimes registered within an e-marketplace, but carry out virtually no business through it. Have an eagerness to learn but a lack of confidence and ability to advance to a higher level of involvement. LEVEL 4: Waders – Categorised by SME’s that for reasons of choice or pressure from stakeholders, have moved into the electronic environment. The firms within are initiated in electronic services and are beginning to learn how to participate in online business. LEVEL 5: Swimmers – Businesses within this level are experts and are comfortable with many e-commerce applications and online trading is an integral part of their business. Grewel’s (2001) classifications indicate that the diffusion levels are affected the resources and can be best targeted at specific groups to encourage higher levels of e-participation, rather than disperse the resources holistically across all SME’s (Levy and Powell, 2003). Furthermore, findings of Grey (2003) show further evidence that adoption levels are not merely down to resources but that adoption rates differ from country to country and that SME’s throughout the world are at different levels of adoption in comparison to others found in different countries. Additionally, both the levels, stage and rate of adoption is influenced by the conditions within that locality. As discussed earlier, the UK is placed 13th on the e-readiness rankings (2009) suggesting that the UK’s levels of adoption are reflective of the benefits already achieved by its SME’s. 2.4.2 Stages of adoption The second factor of adoption deals with the stages or phases of adoption. Cater-Steel and Grist (2004) describe the steps that should be taken to further adopt the internet, although they are also of the opinion that e-commerce will only be adopted as the need arises for the integration into the supply-chain and not just for the sake of having e-commerce. Jeffcoate, Chappell and Feindt (2002) also explored the topic matter and devised a best-practise model for the process in adopting e-commerce. They indentified 11 imperative dynamics of success that are vital during the different phases of the adoption process. However, the most crucial issue raised was that the process which is normally segmented into numerous stages is definitely an ongoing process rather than a one-off event. Similarly, Rogers (1995) also subscribes to the view of adoption as a process with the 5 factors model of innovation adoption. Levy and Powell (2003) further assist Rogers with their adoption ladder framework and are of the opinion that most SME’s only see value at the bottom end of the ladder.Furthermore, there seems to be an overall agreement that the process in the adoption of e-commerce is indeed a process and is implemented in stages rather than an individual one-off occasion. Additionally, the stages are usually adopted at the lower end of the cl assification model (Grewel, 2001), slowly climbing the adoption ladder towards the more complex aspects of e-commerce. 2.4.3   Influencing factors of adoption Qi (2007) and Kiong (2004) investigated the reasoning behind moving from neo-classical forms of commerce to the post-modern capabilities of electronic commerce. They identified a wide range of influencing factors, yet most were mainly regarding monetary benefits. However, further studies by Simpson (2004) conveyed that pressure from society was also a pivotal factor encouraging adoption. Scupola (2003) devised a framework that represents the factors influencing adoption. These factors have been categorised into three segmented groups including the external environment, organisational context and technological context. In addition, managers who perceived e-commerce has having a positive effect on the strategic value of an company posses a positive attitude to adoption (Grandon and Pearson, 2003) whereas Ramsey’s (2005) research into the differences in adopters and non-adopters found that adopters are far more proactive and have a greater e-awareness to indentifying technologica l possibilities. Following the analysis upon the factors influencing adoption, the most notable appears to be the perceptions and attitudes of managers towards e-commerce within organisation. SME’s that have made to successful transition to utilising e-commerce have all portrayed an positive opinion of technological innovation and that it provides them with a opportunity to create a competitive advantage over rival companies and a basis to build better relationships with any stakeholders involved. 3.   Methodology   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   3.1 Philosophy Qualitative research has been extensively compared with quantitative research and has found three different theories about how knowledge is accepted known as epistemology (Bryman and Bell, 2007). Quantitative research has been labelled under the natural scientist theory of positivism (Saunders et al, 2007), which collects data and creates facts on what is in front of them. Hypothesis’ are made by reviewing past literature before undertaking research, which is then compared as to whether the predictions are correct. Qualitative research is labelled at the other end of the epistemological spectrum (Strauss and Corbin, 1998) under Interpretivist or social constructivist (Bryman and Bell, 2007). This theory looks past statistical evidence and penetrates deeper into the information to identify dissimilar answers and read the reactions of people’s behaviour (Saunders et al, 2007). This has a very subjective view due to differentiated opinions and different minds of people (Strauss and Corbin, 1998), which can cause negative outcomes which will be discussed later. Finally, Realism could be said to be in the middle of the two extremes, showing characteristics of both a positivist and an interpretivist (Bryman and Bell, 2007). Realism is comparable to positivism (Saunders et al, 2007) with its scientific approach to data but the theory is divided into two mindsets: Direct realism takes more of the positivist approach by looking at the data and producing results from what is in front of them (Bryman and Bell, 2007). However another mindset has been formulated in the form of critical realism (Saunders et al, 2007), looking past the direct realism and believe that complexities occur in data, which leaves the researcher creating their own interpretations of data (Bryman and Bell, 2007). 3.2 Qualitative V Quantitative It has long been recognised that qualitative and quantitative methods produce different types of information. The use of quantitative methods permits statistical analysis using standardised measures to gauge and compare the reactions of a large number of people on a limited set of questions (Patton, 1997). By contrast, qualitative methods facilitate use of data that are perceived as rich, holistic and real for which face validity seems faultless (Miles, 1983 cited in Howard et al 2001). These characteristics and the lack of standardisation of much qualitative data make them difficult to analyse and require that the researcher devote much time and effort to managing the data (Howard et al, 2001). In contrast, a number of quantitative indices are generally available and additional indicators can be developed by various means, including satisfaction scales and involvement levels. However, Lillis (2008) states that the knowledge that books and numbers have limitations as it doesn’t tell the whole truth. Conversely, qualitative indicators are less readily available. A research design that includes a collection of these indicators is important for numerous reasons. Firstly, qualitative research can lead to the findings of unanticipated data that wasn’t previously expected. Secondly, qualitative methods can also assist the decision makers whose main desire is to gain an understanding to what the people studied actually think and why they think that as well as the values and motivations to that particular thought and behaviour (Van Maanen, 1983 cited in Howard et al, 2001). Furthermore, Bryman and Bell (2007) identify qualitative research as too subjective, on a person’s opinion, their perception could be based on a poor experience however, overall perceptions from others could be different. The data is also difficult to replicate, which is therefore a huge difficulty in analysing, unlike quantitative research (Veal, 1998). To summarise, there is always going to be conflict between the contrasting methods and that both methods have advantages and disadvantages, yet each can be realised when used to research different topics. Furthermore, the author concurs with the opinion of Van Maanen suggesting that qualitative methods provide access to deep-routed answers. 3.3 Approaches In the approach to deciding upon the research method, two means have been identified including both inductive and deductive approaches (Veal, 1998). Qualitative research takes on the inductive approach, in which a collection of data and a development of theory is a result of data analysis owing itself to paradigms of interpretivism. Whereas, quantitative research uses a deductive approach, in which theory and/or a hypothesis is developed to design a research strategy to test that hypothesis which owes itself to positivism (Saunders et al, 2007). Although, both approaches provide contrasting paradigms and that they are divided rigidly, Saunders et al (2007) suggest that it is misleading and that not only is it perfectly possible to combine the approaches, but it may be advantageous to do so. However, as the author is aiming to understand why something is happening, rather than being able to describe what is happening, it is more appropriate to undertake the research, inductively. 3.4 Strategies After exploring both Bryman and Bell (2007) and Saunders et al’s (2007) methods for research literature, the author noticed various techniques to devise a research plan. Taking a quantitative approach may include techniques such as questionnaires or experiments and provide statistical evidence. However, the approach taken by the author to conduct the research is via a qualitative approach and therefore its emphasis upon specific strategies such as observations, interviews and focus groups. Further strategies may include Glaser and Strauss’ (167, cited in Bryman and Bell, 2007) Grounded theory whereby an alternative strategy for linking both theory and research is available suggesting that the research may build up a collection of theory throughout the ongoing process of research.   An additional technique known as archival research makes use of administrative records and documents as the principle source of data.   Furthermore, the data is part of an archival strategy and is analysed because they are part of the day-to-day activities (Hakim, 2000 cited in Saunders et al, 2007). This may become relevant for the purpose of the study as it assists qualitative methods of research within suitable environments, such as observations. 3.5 Choices of method Reference List Adoption of e-commerce in SME: Lessons from the stage model: Ada Scupola, 2003. 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Emerging trend and challenges in information technology management: Medhi Khosrow-Pour, 2006. An investigation into the antecedents of organizational participation in business-to-business electronic markets: R Grewel, J Corner and R Mehta, 2001. Exploring SME internet adoption: Towards an intercontinental model: M Levy and P Powell, 2003. A investigation to e-commerce adoption profile for small and medium enterprises in Bury, Manchester, UK: B QI, 2007. Analysis in the state of e-commerce adoption by SME’s: LV Kiong, 2004. E-commerce adoption support and advice for UK’s SME’s: M Simpson, 2004. Business research methods: Alan Bryman and Emma Bell, 2007. Research methods for business students: Mark Saunders, Philip Lewis and Adrian Thornhill, 2009. Balancing qualitative and quantitative information for effective decision support: Richard Howard and Kenneth Borland Jr, 2001. Research methods for leisure and tourism: A practical guide: A J Veal, 2008. E-readiness rankings report, 2009. 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