Cost Concepts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Cost Concepts - Essay Example One can illustrate this in the case of the University of Colorado Hospital, a large academic hospital recently recognized as the highest performing academic institution in terms of delivering quality health care in the United States for 2012. Using traditional cost systems, resource allocation distributed across overhead expenditures are done according to a measured amount or volume of individual services or products. For example, in terms of maternity care, the overhead cost could be spread across provider compensation, direct and indirect hospital costs, emergency room, transport, pediatric and a host of other product/service elements. Cost accounting in this setting is straightforward: the total cost is measured as opposed to the measurement of a specific unit of the maternity service. Here, the outcome is fundamentally based on the attempt to determine how many units or the product or services are consumed. Activity-based cost accounting is differentiated from this system because it is more detailed and comprehensive in the manner by which it calculates the cost. There are three steps by which it implements the system as opposed to the mere calculation of resources consumed: 1) defining the activities that support output; 2) defining links between activities and output; and, 3) developing the cost activities (p.5). In the case of the maternity service at the UCH, for instance, it will include nonfinancial variables along with financial variables as bases for allocating costs. In addition, it will also employ a bigger number of cost drivers. It is, hence, more accurate in determining cost than the traditional cost accounting method. The impact of cost accounting is important. Hospitals like UCH will predict the cost on the basis of expected visits in assessments like the profit analysis model. This is significant is especially on the face of the increasing frustrations of healthcare finance

Sense Perception Essay Example for Free

Sense Perception Essay Maurits Corneluis Echecher (1898-1972) is one of the most famous graphical artists. He used to use maths in his art to trick peoples senses. Some of his paintings are used for atmosphere ideas in movies, for example inception. Magicians also play with our senses and trick us. The method they use is known as smoke and mirrors. The expression smoke and mirrors has now entered our everyday language in English it refers to deceptive behaviour, actions or information. What does red mean? Love, dangeretc. But it can also be a corporate symbol (vodaphone), a political symbol (like communist flag) communists were called the reds. Red can also be an artistic symbol, symbol of danger, sports team, red can take the significance of health (red cross). Iconoclastic when you cannot have use any religious symbols, like in Islam. In the mosque there are no statues, just quotes from the Koran. Whenever we perceive something the meaning changes depending on the context, the meaning depends on the context. What makes up this context ? * The history of the people. * The culture of the people. * The political views of the people. * Emotions. * The environment surrounding us (if were in a museum, class etc.) John Locke was the founder of the school of Empiricism he said that the human mind is born as a tabula rasa (clean slate). He believes we are born with nothing and no skills, he thinks that we gain ideas, skills and knowledge throughout our lifes. This means that context that provides the meanings to the things we perceive is not something were born with, but something we learn. Gestalt psychology (school of thought), it argues that we shouldnt understand perception as an individual phenomena, but as a whole because the result is more than the part of it. This theory may be applied to many things ex. a movie or a painting. This applies to the way we interpret other individuals and human actions, this is what we call social perception. Social perception is also related to the we dress up. Social perception also leads to racism, think of Germans and Jews.

Queen Elizabeth I Essay -- Biology

She was never married and was known as the "Virgin Queen" because she had no children. She brought England a victory when beating Spain, at the time the most powerful country in the world, in war. Her birth was a disappointment because her father wanted a boy so he could be King. Who was this interesting and bold person? Queen Elizabeth I. Brave and intelligent, Queen Elizabeth I achieved many important thing when she was Queen and England would never be the way it is now if it wasn't for her. Queen Elizabeth I was born on September 7, 1533. Her father was Henry VIII and her mother was Anne Boleyn ("Elizabeth I, Queen of England" par 1). Elizabeth's birthplace was at Greenwhich Palace, England ("Elizabeth I Biography" par 2). When she was born her father did not even want a girl so Anne Boleyn was executed in 1536 for suspicion of infidelity. Elizabeth father had married and she had Edward VI and Mary as her half siblings. She grew up without a mothers care but was intelligent and well educated. Elizabeth knew a number of languages and loved music("Elizabeth I, Queen of England" par 1 and 9). Elizabeth was taught by famous scholars such as William Grindal and Roger Asham. She did enjoy many recreations including horseback riding, hawking, hunting, and bear baiting ("Elizabeth I Biography" par 5 and 8). Through her early childhood she wasn't really considered the next queen or great ruler. Elizabeth was just considered the Kings daughter and was actually barely seen by him ("Queen Elizabeth I" par 9). Something other that was very present in her life was that she inherited a feud between the Catholics and Protestants ("Elizabeth I 1558-1603 AD" par 2). Queen Elizabeth's father died in January of 1547 ("Elizabeth I Biography" ... ... thought of it as "The Golden Age". Even though she didn't have a huge impact on the world, Queen Elizabeth I was able to bring her citizens together after they were in poverty. People started to believe a man can lead a war just as well as a woman ("Elizabeth Tudor" par 9-10). Queen Elizabeth had a "live or die" situation when she went out to fight in war instead of being guarded in her castle. She wanted to die fighting with her people ("The Spanish Armada" par 11). Elizabeth had a friend named Robert Dudley that she knew since she was eight years old. He had a big influence in her life because he was such a friend to her ( "Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester" par 2). Finally Elizabeth wanted to be known as "Gods Vessel on Earth ("Elizabeth I and the Church" par 3)." I have the heart of a man. not a woman, and I am not afraid of anything. (Queen Elizabeth I)

Analyse the sun’s newspaper leading article Essay

The Sun is a tabloid newspaper, which is generally short and easy to read. The word â€Å"spirit† adds evidence that The Sun targets a simple audience, which don’t have to be highly educated. The Sun is aimed at the middle class market (red top). As well as being strictly right-wing politics, the paper also has an untrustworthy reputation, they can also have tendency to exaggerate the truth and even print lies. Papers often exaggerate to make the situation sound more devastating and to have a more dramatic effect on the reader. The Sun gives a graphical view into what happened on September the 11th. The article on the 12th September 2001 is presented quite visually. The paper uses headlines to attract the reader’s attention and to summarise the facts of the article. The main title for the article is â€Å"The Sun Says†. The title is printed in large capital letters, is bold and has white letters printed on a black background. White letters on a black background are used to focus people attention on the title. Bold text is also used to make certain text stand out from the rest. The heading is to summarise the article, which is what â€Å"The sun says†¦ † This short unfinished sentence makes the reader want read on and this creates suspense as well as getting reader interest. This heading is also influencing the reader’s point of view. The main Sub heading is â€Å"All the world must unite to defeat these evil cowards. † This heading is printed in large letters, is bold, underlined, has white letters on a black background and in the centre of the article. The heading is in the centre of the article this is to break up the text and grab people’s attention. The heading is used to give a message, which in this case is everyone, must join together to find out who committed this unprovoked attack. This heading is also exaggerated to creating drama and excitement to stimulate the interest of the reader. Below the sub heading in a picture of some of the people caught up in the accident. This is eye catching and is reinforcing what is being said in the text. The picture is followed by the caption â€Å"Terror victims†¦. New York workers flee the devastation covered in dust yesterday† This caption is to get a certain response from the reader. The writer varies the sentence lengths to make short sentences punchy and hard-hitting on the audience. This simple short sentences â€Å"They must† is the first sentence of the article after the subheading. Short sentences are to emphasise a certain point. The point for this sentence is really the answer to the sub heading before it. This has a dramatic effect on its audience to unite in the â€Å"wake of yesterday’s horrors. † An additional short sentence is â€Å"Not after yesterday. † This is due to the amount of lives that were lost and threat of another attack. This is playing on the audience’s emotions. The writer uses a variety of techniques to help write a powerful article. Emotive language is used to provoke a certain response this can be demonstrated by the phrase â€Å"But the world will never be the same again. † This phrase is used to provoke an emotional response from the audience because the towers will never be rebuilt or be the same again. In order to create emotions, The Sun had to be biased and argue their point in order to get a certain emotion, among the audience. The writer uses the single word â€Å"exactly† which is written in Italic writing. This is to emphasise the word and make it stand out from the rest of the paragraph. The word is also to persuade the audience to adopt their point of view. Bold text stand is used several times throughout the article. Various examples of the bold text are â€Å"It is our duty to support them, both morally and – if necessary – practically† and â€Å"They must be hunted down and killed. † These quote are both subtitles. These subtitles are bold to catch the reader’s attention and make you want to read more. The bold also makes the text stand out from the rest of the paragraph. Both of these sentences give the read a feeling that if there is a war then we should back America. A rhetorical question is often asked for effect, this is to get a reader interested in what is happening. â€Å"Were his words treated as bravado rather that a dire threat? By asking a question the reader is leaving the answer up to the readers imagination and for them to draw their own opinion. In addition, the writer also uses questions from famous people in order to support their view. By quoting the prime minister the writer helps to support this view and it gets the paper politically involved. Tony Blair quoted, â€Å"The terrorists were in human† Journalists often exaggerate the truth to have a greater impact on the reader. For example â€Å"The world will NEVER be the same again. † By exaggerating the story the writer is trying to create a more devastating story. By developing and twisting the story the writer is assuming what has happened, but can’t prove what actually took place. This is called suppression and is created by saying an example of this is â€Å"If they had a nuclear bomb, they would use it. † Exaggeration is also being used to influence the reader’s point of view like in the phrase describing the disaster similar to â€Å"Armageddon, Death Wish and the Towering Inferno. † Writers some times use rhyming phrases in order to create phrases or slogans to keep the suspense of the article. Examples of rhyming phrases in the article include â€Å"George W. Bush will not shirk from using might in the cause of right. † And â€Å"we have won before. We will win again. † By playing on words, using Rhyming phrases and repetition the writer is focusing on a certain point or word. In this case the word is â€Å"we† which is at the end of the article to get across the point that â€Å"we can win†. The Language used in the Sun is informative, angry and sad. The language is a key tool in making a newspaper as affective as possible as it keeps the audience interested. A great example of this is the phrase â€Å"New York workers flee the devastation of yesterday. † This example of sad language is to provoke angry response from the audience. The language is also dramatic an example of this is â€Å"he must be bold†. This is to provoke the response that George Bush must be brave and daring. At the time of the disaster I was at school so I didn’t find out until I got home. When I saw the pictures on the television I felt a great lose for the families and could not belief something like this could happen, it affects everyone. The bottom lines of the article are trying to get people to unite and get everyone to â€Å"pray for America and for us all. † This powerful phrase is supposed to have a lasting affect on the reader and to influence their opinion. The leading article is a story expressing the newspaper’s point of view they are normally hard hitting, powerful and personnel. Some times they are actually written by the editor and they are much more opinionated than other reports. This type newspaper tries to make up people’s minds for them as it is mainly biased.

Air traffic essay Essay

Today many people state that the authorities have to lighten air traffic by introducing new charges, because airports generate a lot of noise and damage environment. The reason is huge demand for cheap flights, so there are too many people to use airline services. In my opinion, this idea is completely wrong, because of several reasons. To begin with, if there be less people, who can afford themselves to travel by air, then they will choose cars and other ground transport, what will cause a lot more pollution and traffic jams on the roads. Just compare 100 people on one plane and 100 people on 100 cars. It goes without saying that second option is much more damaging for environment. Moreover, such soluton will cause dramatical fall in business activity, because people will not be able to control production performance, visit important meetings and so on. Some people will say that these are just minor set-backs, but in fact, we will face the catalyst of new world economic recession. Finally, I see reducing air traffic as a slow-down of progress. If airlines and airports have less financial resources then they will not be able to maintain their development teams. As a result, world will be one-step further from creating new ways of air travel. Following topic’s logic, we should start living in lairs and eat with the stick. In conclusion I want to say that services that enjoys great demand are essential for people and they became natural part of society’s infrastructure. Today many people state that the authorities have to lighten air traffic by introducing new charges, because airports generate a lot of noise and damage environment. The reason is huge demand for cheap flights, so there are too many people to use airline services. In my opinion, this idea is completely wrong, because of several reasons. To begin with, if there be less people, who can afford themselves to travel by air, then they will choose cars and other ground transport, what will cause a lot more pollution and traffic jams on the roads. Just compare 100 people on one plane and 100 people on 100 cars. It goes without saying that second option is much more damaging for environment. Moreover, such soluton will cause dramatical fall in business activity, because people will not be able to control production performance, visit important meetings and so on. Some people will say that these are just minor set-backs, but in fact, we will face the catalyst of new world economic recession. Finally, I see reducing air traffic as a slow-down of progress. If airlines and airports have less financial resources then they will not be able to maintain their development teams. As a result, world will be one-step further from creating new ways of air travel. Following topic’s logic, we should start living in lairs and eat with the stick. In conclusion I want to say that services that enjoys great demand are essential for people and they became natural part of society’s infrastructure.

Definition and Examples of Linguists

Definition and Examples of Linguists A linguist is a specialist in linguisticsthat is, the study of language. Also known as a  linguistic scientist or a linguistician. Linguists examine the structures of languages and the principles that underlie those structures. They study human speech as well as written documents. Linguists are not necessarily polyglots (i.e., people who speak many different languages). Examples and Observations Some believe that a linguist is a person who speaks several languages fluently. Others believe that linguists are language experts who can help you decide whether it is better to say It is I or It is me. Yet it is quite possible to be a professional linguist (and an excellent one at that) without having taught a single language class, without having interpreted at the UN, and without speaking any more than one language.What is linguistics, then? Fundamentally, the field is concerned with the nature of language and (linguistic) communication.(Adrian Akmajian, Richard Demerts, Ann Farmer, and Robert Harnish, Linguistics: An Introduction to Language and Communication. MIT Press, 2001)Subfields of Linguistics- Linguists spend their time studying what language is and what it does. Different linguists study language in different ways. Some study the design features that the grammars of all the worlds languages share. Some study the differences among languages. Some linguists focus on struc ture, others on meaning. Some study language in the head, some study language in society.(James Paul Gee, Literacy and Education. Routledge, 2015)- Linguists study many facets of language: how sounds are produced and heard in physical acts of speech, conversational interaction, the different uses of language by men and women and different social classes, the relation of language to the functions of the brain and memory, how languages develop and change, and the uses of language by machines to store and reproduce language.(William Whitla, The English Handbook. Wiley-Blackwell, 2010) Linguists as Scientists- Like a biologist studying the structure of cells, a linguist studies the structure of language: how speakers create meaning through combinations of sounds, words, and sentences that ultimately result in textsextended stretches of language (e.g. a conversation between friends, a speech, an article in a newspaper). Like other scientists, linguists examine their subject matterlanguageobjectively. They are not interested in evaluating good versus bad uses of language, in much the same manner that a biologist does not examine cells with the goal of determining which are pretty and which are ugly.(Charles F. Meyer, Introducing English Linguistics. Cambridge University Press, 2010)- The  important point to remember about the complex sets of relationships and rules known as phonology, syntax, and semantics is that they are all involved in the modern linguists approach to describing the grammar of a language.(Marian R. Whitehead, Language Literacy in the Early Year s 0-7. Sage, 2010) Ferdinand de Saussure on the System of a LanguageThe pioneer linguist Ferdinand de Saussure criticized scholars who studied the history of a part of a language, dissociated from the whole to which it belongs. He insisted that linguists should study the complete system of a language at some point in time, and then examine how the entire system changes over time. Saussures pupil Antoine Meillet (1926: 16) is responsible for the aphorism: une langue constitue un systà ¨me complexe de moyens dexpression, systà ¨me oà ¹ tout se tient (a language makes up a complex system of means of expression, a system in which everything holds together). Scientific linguistics who produce comprehensive grammars of languages naturally follow this tenet. (Proponents of formal theories, who look at isolated bits of language for some particular issue, naturally contravene this fundamental principle.)(R. M. W. Dixon, Basic Linguistic Theory Volume 1: Methodology. Oxford University Press, 2009) Pronunciation: LING-gwist

How to Make a Thesis

How to Make a Thesis How to Make a Thesis How to Make a ThesisYou can make hundreds of attempts to formulate a thesis statement, still, fail to do it. The reason is that it is difficult to make a thesis from scratch. Developing a thesis statement is not the outburst of inspiration but rather a task that requires some time to accomplish it successfully. So, if you want to know how to make a thesis statement, you have come to the right place. In this article, you will find some tips on how to make a thesis successfully. While PhD thesis writing is not easy and you must follow specific thesis format. How to make a thesis: Tip 1. Develop your personal position on the problemReading what others think about the question you are researching may turn out to be rather useful in case you know a little about the matter. Your position may coincide with someone elses or may differ cardinally from already adopted viewpoints. The key point is that you should truly believe in what you are talking about. Do not be inclined to others point of view only because you cannot shape your own position. This will only make it more difficult for you to support it. How to make a thesis: Tip 2. Formulate your main ideaTry to make your message specific rather than vague or general. What is more, do not make it too long. One or maximum two sentences will be quite enough. Write it somewhere on a sheet of paper. This thesis is not final yet. You will come back to it as soon as your paper is completed.How to make a thesis: Tip 3. Conduct researchWhile researching the topic, some information that yo u may find in the sources may turn out much useful. They can help you in formulating and improving your thesis statement. So, make notes on the information that can be included into your thesis statement.How to make a thesis: Tip 4. Come back to your thesis and think what might be changedIt is important to keep your thesis flexible until the investigation is actually finished. If you do it, you will not have any difficulties with rewriting it later. So, after you finish researching the topic, come back to your thesis statement and think what can be changed. A thesis statement is an important element of any paper, it is the framework that every paper is based on. So, it is extremely important to know how to make a thesis correctly. Follow our guidelines and you will learn writing a research paper without any problems!

Finding the Main Idea Answers 2

Finding the Main Idea Answers 2 If you have read How to Find the Main Idea, and have completed the Finding the Main Idea 2 activity, then, by all means read the answers below. These answers are affiliated with both the articles, and will not make much sense by themselves! Printable PDFs: Finding the Main Idea 2 Worksheet | Finding the Main Idea 2 Answers Answer 1: Classrooms This is a stated main idea: The physical environment of a classroom is extremely important because it can influence the way teachers and students feel, think, and behave. Answer 2: China Power This is a stated main idea: Whether Chinas emergence as a global power can peacefully find a place in East Asia and the world is a major issue in todays international political environment, one that warrants a responsible look. Answer 3: Rain This is an implied main idea: Its abnormal to venture out in the rain, but the positive results can be well worth it. Answer 4: Math This is an implied main idea: Although males outperform females on math tests, the cause of the discrepancy is unknown. Answer 5: Movies This is an implied main idea: People are willing to pay high prices for movies on the weekends in order to experience camaraderie with others. Answer 6: Troopathon This is an implied main idea: Melanie Morgan created the Troopathon to counteract the negative personification of troops displayed by the media. Answer 7: Relationships This is an implied main idea: Getting into a relationship is easy, but staying in one is not. Answer 8: Educational Technology This is an implied main idea: Technology is pervasive in todays classrooms, and although critics doubt its use in education, their viewpoint is faulty. Answer 9: Fair Use This is a stated main idea: The recording industry has gone too far in its fight against file sharers in that Copyright Management Systems can impinge on users fair use of digital information. Answer 10: Mares This is a stated main idea: A recent study found that more sociable mares had more foals.

Data mining and e-learning Thesis Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Data mining and e-learning - Thesis Proposal Example Data mining is often regarded as an inseparable facet of effective e-learning process aimed at better knowledge management. However, critics have also been of the view that data mining presents certain challenges that undermines its effectiveness as an ideal tool of knowledge management through e-learning (Ari, 2008; Monk, 2005). As argued in Abdullah (2008) and Chen & et. al. (2004), experiences of the data users in data mining and their accurate interpretation skills to use those data in knowledge management techniques when focusing on e-learning, often generate issues related with complexities and cost as well as time constraints. Emphasising this particular debated issue, the objectives of this particular research have been determined as the following. According to Moore & et. al. (2011), e-learning approach to knowledge management is fundamentally described as a web-based mechanism, which assists the users as well as the learners towards accessing knowledge or information in a convenient and time-efficient manner. In this similar concern, Moore & et. al. (2011) identified that the notion of e-learning emerged as one of the effective ideas in enhancing the knowledge of people through the incorporation of various innovative technological advancements. In this present day context, it can be apparently observed that data mining methods have been widely adopted in the application of e-learning for the purpose of solving numerous problems that arise while retrieving or gathering any data in today’s globalising world. As per the study conducted by Han & et. al. (2011), data mining is utilised in the field of statistics to support decisions in various fields of research including business or education, which tends to apply several techniques, neural networks, visualisation modes and decision trees among others. The various sorts of data mining techniques

How to Improve Systems Development through Optimization Essay

How to Improve Systems Development through Optimization - Essay Example In addition, the research shows that the information systems development is an extremely knowledge-intensive process that necessitates the integration of particular stakeholder expertise and knowledge (Tiwana, 2006; McSweeney, 2010; Hagerup, 2010). This paper attempts to answer the question: what do information technology managers need to know about how to improve the systems development process through joint optimization? In this scenario, this a detailed research will be conducted to investigate a wide variety of aspects such as IT manager’s skills and expertise that need to improved for managing the IT projects development. This paper also shows how IT managers can improve the systems development process through joint optimization? A persistent statement about information technology (IT) is that â€Å"IT has no innate value†. In other words, possessing IT assets does not allow an organization to attain a competitive edge over other organizations, or to improve busine ss processes or to reduce expenditures. On the other hand, IT plays a positive role only when corporate stakeholders direct information technology in the right direction to offer business value. ... In this scenario, general managers require to be concerned with information technology (IT); the merger of software, hardware, people, data and processes, for the reason that: The absolute degree of the budget spent on information technology has to be handled carefully in order to ensure business value (Lacity, 2012; Grudin, 1991). In addition, a lot of studies revealed that when business managers are involved in IT, it helps them build numerous business plans, like that attaining a competitive benefit, improving and modernizing business processes, expanding their business to international markets and even initiating new businesses. However, it is also the responsibility of senior managers to be familiar with how IT improvements can change industry arrangements, like that influence of information technology on the specific industry. In this scenario, many researchers have argued that when business managers are not concerned in IT development projects and design, such projects and sys tems developments fail, as a result a lot of investment is wasted, or even, businesses completely fail because of badly managed IT projects (Lacity, 2012; Grudin, 1991). Moreover, the information technology and IT projects management knowledge and skills are able to offer a capability to utilize IT resources (like that efficiency of applications similar to on-line resources, word processors or computer presentation systems) successfully and competently. However, IT projects managers should be able to build up their knowledge, capabilities, and responsibilities in using information technology, recognizing the function and influence of information technology as well as implementing

What is the true nature of war Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

What is the true nature of war - Essay Example In the words of Leo Tolstoy "In all history there is no war, which was not hatched by the governments, the governments alone, independent of the interests of the people, to whom war is always pernicious even when successful". Dictionary meaning of war encompasses "werra" which means confusion. War certainly generates confusion leading to the emergence of various social, economical, physical or mental issues that otherwise prove to bring disaster. It is an open conflict that two sides witness in approved format (McLaughlin). History witnesses that war is not new but it is an ancient episode which has taken a different arms and forms over the years. It was never a simple confrontation between people but it encompasses slaughtering and mutilation of those who were not the creator of war but naive onlookers. What is heroic about war and their heroes stumbling upon to magnificent deaths? The truth is not about glory but war is a conflict that brings about blood and gore. The motives of th e war could vary but the result is blood and grievances for the sufferers may it be the civil war of Libya or it is death of Osama bin Laden, the truth of war is that it has prevaricated human beings (McLaughlin).With the advent of new technologies war has taken advanced form, from simple arms to nuclear missiles and every war must end in a victory that has become the motive of the warriors as the opponent seem to be the most barbaric creatures of the planet. Thus, war gives an implication that humans are the enemies of humane. Victorious army rejoices or rather disgraces enemies to their utmost limits although there is a great economic loss to both the parties whether they lose or conquer, mental trauma to the sufferers, emotional loss or permanent disability, war has never generated happiness in people's mind except for a few instance where people got a saga of relief from the trauma or terror of the terrorism like the one that was done recently against Osama bin Laden by the US N avy SEALs. The value of war could never be estimated nor its implications be wiped off as there is no single funding agency that can relieve the sufferer from the emotional trauma. Still war occur to inflict obedience, enforce collaborations, set a quality on resilience and bravery. Promote as well as cultivate and endorse nationalism, ruined feeble and weak individuals, break up the misapprehension of primordial egalitarianism and stratified civilization or culture (The Social Value of War). In this manner war may display an evolution but promotion of slavery must be deserted. Ancient wars might have provided nations with strength and might but in today's scenario it interrupts cultural norms. Ancient era annihilated inferior people but the present era witnesses discriminating demolition of the paramount human reserves as they are aimed to prove supremacy over the other (The Social Value of War). The common man has to pay the value of the war in terms of biological, chemical as wel l as nuclear weapons. War is not so easy in present era as was in ancient times where there was only armed worriers now there are many unseen weapons which are capable of eradicating the survival of life on the planet. It is therefore war should never be glorified but it should be counted as the legal and authorized devastation that does not possess any ethical as well as social reforms rather it is a predicament that should never be encouraged (The Social Value of War). The economic loss that both the opponents suffer cannot be replenished. In the present scenario it is imperative to save all the energy for fighting against natural calamities rather than wasting upon provide evidence of "might" by means of war. According to William James, the classic problem of politics encompass: "How to sustain political unity and civic virtue in the absence of war or a credible threat". There could be only two solutions to this issue encompassing, either war or threat to procure and establish th eir power or "might". The epoch witnessed

What is a Mockingbird What makes Tom Robinson, Mrs. Dubose, and Boo Essay

What is a Mockingbird What makes Tom Robinson, Mrs. Dubose, and Boo Radley Mockingbirds - Essay Example e’s story, Atticus proves the black man is innocent of all charges while implicating that any damage done was actually caused by the girl’s abusive father, but the defendant, Tom Robinson, is found guilty anyway by the all-white jury. In the meantime, the children have made friends with their eccentric neighbor, Boo Radley. Boo has spent the majority of his life imprisoned by his parents in the house next door. Scout’s brother, Jem, has also spent several afternoons reading to a mean old lady of the neighborhood, Mrs. Dubose, on his father’s orders. In the context of the book, the mockingbird is used to symbolize something innocent and without a true voice of its own. In the real world, the mockingbird is quietly helpful as it feeds on the grubs and other harmful insects that often damage needed crops but has no true song of its own. Instead, the mockingbird sings a compilation of songs that it hears in its environment. â€Å"The literature contains countless stories of notable imitations. One New York City bird reproduced perfectly the beep-beep-beep of a backhoe in reverse, while another threw a high school football game into confusion by mimicking the referee’s whistle. Yet another ‘joined the National Symphony Orchestra during an outdoor concert in Washington D.C.’† (Tveten 292). This reveals it to be a bird capable of appreciating its environment as well as a bird without a true voice of its own. It is known only by its appearance and the way in which it is defined by others. Its borrowed voice, appreciation and participation in its environment and its changeable nature make this a bird that deserves recognition and respect. This concept is found in the book when Atticus tells Scout and Jem, â€Å"I’d rather you shoot at tin cans in the backyard, but I know you’ll go after birds. Shoot all the blue jays you want, if you can hit ‘em, but remember it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird† (Lee 69). As the following discussion will

Endeavor Global Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Endeavor Global - Assignment Example A case can be made as to why there is a bias against entrepreneurs from emerging markets with the level of trade and economic development in those countries (Nath, 2008). Generally, economic growth and development in emerging markets is not as rapid as what prevails in developed markets. To this end, entrepreneurs are faced with several difficulties, among which is the need to raise capital to fuel the growth of their businesses. It is against this backdrop that the works of various non-governmental organizations who aim at fostering entrepreneurship through the provision of technical and financial support in emerging markets remain very crucial. In this paper, the role of Endeavor Global as a non-governmental organization with such similar focus is critically analyzed. The analysis shall be taken from an appraisal perspective, aiming at examining the strengths, weaknesses and opportunities of the organization. NGO’s Mission and Operational Practices Endeavor Global has a simp le mission of â€Å"lead the global movement to catalyze long-term economic growth by selecting, mentoring, and accelerating the best High-Impact Entrepreneurs around the world† (Endeavor, 2013). This mission spelt out by the organization clearly defines the operational practices that they follow in the accomplishment and achievement of their goals as an organization. First, the organization functions as a catalyst for economic growth. This means that the organization believes that economic growth would take place in one way or the other among businesses and companies. However, it takes an extra effort to facilitating the rate of expected economic growth and this extra effort is what Endeavor Global seeks to stand for. Again as part of operational practices, the organization sets itself up for strict research and development into emerging markets to identify and monitor entrepreneurs whose business operations bring them to that stage or level of global competitiveness that ca n be referred to as ‘High-Impact’. By high-impact, reference is made to entrepreneurs who have been identified to have great potential for impact (Crabb, 2008). Finally, the organization is concerned with issuing out specific technical and financial support to all such high-impact entrepreneurs that are identified. Successful creation of social change Indeed, the entire paradigm of operational complexity that is practiced by Endeavor Global is focused on the creation of social change and the improvement of markets in emerging countries. This is because the organization operations on the theoretical principle of social entrepreneurship. By social entrepreneurship, reference is being made to the selection and support of entrepreneurs who exhibit key ideologies of operation such as being mission-related, have a perceived need of clients, and have need for profit, though not making it a primary motivation (Sesan, 2006). In effect, Endeavor Global has focus for entrepreneurs whose ultimate goal is to influence and improve society through their business operations. This must however not be mistaken for nonprofit organizations as it is very much possible to be profit oriented and yet focused on social growth and change. Apart from this approach taken by the organization, the fact that is makes its target of entrepreneurs from emerging markets alone can be said to be a huge focus on social change. This is because there is enough research evidence to support the notion and thinking that most of the world’s social challenges and problems that need to be changed and improved are in emerging and developing markets (Hundnut & DeTienne, 2010). In effect, any support

ASSIGNMENT 5 PLAY Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

5 PLAY - Assignment Example Therefore I gather a few of my friends and decided to play cricket. The game is usually played with twenty two players with eleven players on both sides. We however made teams of four and it made it much more exciting. On the second play day I decided to play soccer. Due to the world cup fever small groups in our society regularly play soccer these days. I decided to become part of their training session. We tried a few free kicks and penalties. Answer: As mentioned the first play day was based on cricket. The teams were much smaller and there was no padding. Therefore the players were in a lighter mood altogether. In nature it is a very competitive game but due to a smaller number of players it became much friendlier. It really felt good hitting the ball over the top. There was no motivation to win or defeat our opponents. Most rules were made spontaneously along the way. On the second play date it was a training session and I was a rookie therefore there was no pressure. The other players applauded and laughed at my each short it was all fun. A couple of time the goal let my ball in willingly just to have a good laugh. Answer: To understand anything in life one has to be in their shoes. This is why I think learning to play is an important part of being a parent. Most parents force their children to spend extra time in study or work. I for once have felt the joy of the game and know that no amount of success in life can match the freedom of playing on the field. Answer: The responsibilities in life had a different perspective as I reflect now after my experience. There are no reasons that life can not fun. For example in a game you have to score a goal but you do it without worry or pressure. Similarly I think that one should not try to run away from the responsibilities of life but in fact learn to enjoy them. Answer: The play days really gave me mental freshness and agility. One back home I was eager to move from my couch and get work done. This shows

Endeavor Global Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Endeavor Global - Assignment Example A case can be made as to why there is a bias against entrepreneurs from emerging markets with the level of trade and economic development in those countries (Nath, 2008). Generally, economic growth and development in emerging markets is not as rapid as what prevails in developed markets. To this end, entrepreneurs are faced with several difficulties, among which is the need to raise capital to fuel the growth of their businesses. It is against this backdrop that the works of various non-governmental organizations who aim at fostering entrepreneurship through the provision of technical and financial support in emerging markets remain very crucial. In this paper, the role of Endeavor Global as a non-governmental organization with such similar focus is critically analyzed. The analysis shall be taken from an appraisal perspective, aiming at examining the strengths, weaknesses and opportunities of the organization. NGO’s Mission and Operational Practices Endeavor Global has a simp le mission of â€Å"lead the global movement to catalyze long-term economic growth by selecting, mentoring, and accelerating the best High-Impact Entrepreneurs around the world† (Endeavor, 2013). This mission spelt out by the organization clearly defines the operational practices that they follow in the accomplishment and achievement of their goals as an organization. First, the organization functions as a catalyst for economic growth. This means that the organization believes that economic growth would take place in one way or the other among businesses and companies. However, it takes an extra effort to facilitating the rate of expected economic growth and this extra effort is what Endeavor Global seeks to stand for. Again as part of operational practices, the organization sets itself up for strict research and development into emerging markets to identify and monitor entrepreneurs whose business operations bring them to that stage or level of global competitiveness that ca n be referred to as ‘High-Impact’. By high-impact, reference is made to entrepreneurs who have been identified to have great potential for impact (Crabb, 2008). Finally, the organization is concerned with issuing out specific technical and financial support to all such high-impact entrepreneurs that are identified. Successful creation of social change Indeed, the entire paradigm of operational complexity that is practiced by Endeavor Global is focused on the creation of social change and the improvement of markets in emerging countries. This is because the organization operations on the theoretical principle of social entrepreneurship. By social entrepreneurship, reference is being made to the selection and support of entrepreneurs who exhibit key ideologies of operation such as being mission-related, have a perceived need of clients, and have need for profit, though not making it a primary motivation (Sesan, 2006). In effect, Endeavor Global has focus for entrepreneurs whose ultimate goal is to influence and improve society through their business operations. This must however not be mistaken for nonprofit organizations as it is very much possible to be profit oriented and yet focused on social growth and change. Apart from this approach taken by the organization, the fact that is makes its target of entrepreneurs from emerging markets alone can be said to be a huge focus on social change. This is because there is enough research evidence to support the notion and thinking that most of the world’s social challenges and problems that need to be changed and improved are in emerging and developing markets (Hundnut & DeTienne, 2010). In effect, any support

Health Care in Australia Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Health Care in Australia - Essay Example Short). Be that as it may, anomalies exist in the health care system in Australia. The health care spread is uneven in Australia due to disparities in social and economic levels. The health scenario in the rural areas and place where indigenous populations live is not what it is in the urban areas. There are several reasons for this. The four key challenges to Australia's health systems are affordability of services, expansion of the health workforce to meet the needs of older population, treatment of chronic disease in the community instead of in hospitals, and the integration of complex services in care delivery (Health And The 2007 Federal Elections). The cost of health care is quite high in Australia. There have been attempts to integrate medical care with economy. Most researchers agree that social and economic conditions such as levels of education, types of work, and rates of unemployment, affect population health. A report produced by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare found that more than 23,000 lives could have been saved in 1998-2000 if the poorest 80 percent of the population had access to the same living conditions and quality of care as the wealthiest 20 percent. In the same period, that is, 1998-2000, the richest males and females lived 3.9 years and 2 years longer respectively than the poorest. The gulf between the rich and the poor is widening. Data from 1985-87 and 1998-2000 reveal that mortality inequality between the rich and the poor increased for all causes and almost doubled for cancers and cardiovascular disease (Karen Holland). Australia's health economy is expanding. However, despite this expansion the health care system is unable to deliver appropriate and timely care to Australians. There is continuing concern about waiting lists for surgical procedures and specialists consultations in public hospitals, long waiting times in the private sector for particular specialties and increasing disparities between the delivery of care in major centers and in the rural sector. The problem lies in the multiplicity of organizations that administer and fund the health sector, outdated industrial practices, and lack of willingness on the part of any of these groups to reorganize in order to provide more efficient services. A recent World Health Organization report estimated that there would be a global shortage of over four million doctors, nurses, midwives and other health workers over the next decade. This shortage is felt in health force in Australia too. The health workforce currently makes up just over 11% of the total workforce in Australia. The number should increase to around 20% (Peter Brooks and Niki Ellis). Aging population in Australia today poses significant problems to the healthcare system. The challenge is to move to an appropriate health care system for the 65 plus population with chronic disease. The Australian health system is struggling to care for this section of the population in an appropriate, cost-effective and timely manner (From Episodic Treatment To Chronic

Acts of Rebellion Essay Example for Free

Acts of Rebellion Essay In 1984, Orwell presents the act of rebellion through love. Listen. The more men youve had, the most I love you. Do you understand that? this whole quote suggest that they are both rebelling, meaning that Julia has already rebelled in the past by having sex with other men. Also Winston is declaring that the more she rebels the more he would love her, which is also an act of rebellion in itself because love is unauthorized, by Big Brother. The most could suggest that Winston is encouraging everyone to rebel against Big Brother, which could mean that as Julia loves Winston, he is taking advantage of her by telling her that whatever Julia is doing is right that he is totally supporting her. Additionally this could mean that he wanted more people to be corrupt, and everyone to go to the wrong path and disobey Big Brother. Orwell presents the act of rebellion through love because in the Dystopian society there are strict rule that need to be followed, such as no having sex for pleasure, and this is clearly an act of rebellion as Julia had sex with lots of party member. Similarly in Romeo and Juliet where Shakespeare is presenting their love by rebelling, they are both willing to disobey the orders of the wise ones just to be with each other. Therefore stay yet; thou needst not to be gone proposes that Juliet is stubborn, as the Daughter of Capulet; she is used to get what she wants. Additionally Romeo declares to her Let me taen, let me be put to death This could emphasise that he is willing to die for Juliet and stay with her than live his life without her, this clearly shows that he is rebelling against all the rules put upon them, just to stay with Juliet. Not to be gone could suggest that Juliet is being bossy as she is ordering him to stay with her. But alternatively this could highlight that as men in the Elizabethan had power over women, and they were patriarchal meaning that Juliet was a bad influence on Romeo, and that she was almost a threat to his manhood. As he accepts defeat Romeo says let me put to death which could declare that Juli et is Romeos weakness and that if someone breaks Juliet, Romeo will also shatter.

Comparing Flauberts A Sentimental Education and Henry James’ The Portr

Comparing Flaubert's A Sentimental Education and Henry James’ The Portrait of a Lady Henry James wrote of A Sentimental Education, "[Flaubert] takes Frà ©dà ©ric Moreau on the threshold of life and conducts him to the extreme of maturity without apparently suspecting for a moment either our wonder or our protest--'Why, why him?' Frà ©dà ©ric is positively too poor for his charge; and we feel with a kind of embarrassment, certainly with a kind of compassion, that it is somehow the business of a protagonist to prevent in his designer an excessive waste of faith." . He spoke harshly, but with no little authority on the subject; his own The Portrait of a Lady takes Isabel Archer from this Å’threshold' to, if not quite the Å’extreme of maturity', then to a point which serves the same novelistic purpose. As, at the end of Sentimental Education, the reader understands that Frà ©dà ©ric's novelistic life, his potential to drive a narrative, (his limited potential, as James might see it), is over, so the reader is given to understand the same of Isabel at the end of Portrait. In considering James' evaluation of Frà ©dà ©ric's worthiness as a protagonist, one cannot deny that the basis of his criticism is valid; Frà ©dà ©ric is the "abject human specimen" James says he is, and there are times in the novel when we do want to ask, "Why him?". But we must also ask whether Flaubert was not fully conscious of his hero's pathetic nature, and whether the placement of such a character at the center of his novel was not an utterly intentional, and perhaps ultimately brilliant, stroke of authorship. This question, and the comparison of two bildungsromans with two such contrasting heroes, leads to the interesting and more fundamental question of the function of a r... ... his life trying to obtain a future to align with the loftiest of his dreams; now that he is no longer at the Å’threshold' looking forward, he has no where to cast his dreaming, idealizing eyes but back, and not just into his past, but even beyond the narrative bounds of the novel. Thus excluded from the last scene, we are in a sense abandoned to Frà ©dà ©ric's fate, looking back with longing to a time that never existed. There is a way in which Sentimental Education, so utterly devoid of transcendence or redemptive spirit, chillingly effects the reader in a much deeper way, resonates in a much darker place than The Portrait of a Lady. Finally, we see that Isabel has learned what the novel had to teach her; Frà ©dà ©ric has not, and the brutal Å’sentimental education' is ours. Works Cited James, Henry. A Portrait of a Lady. 1908. New York: Houghton Mifflin, 1963.

Comparing the Gothic Revival in England Before and After 1820 Essay

Comparing the Gothic Revival in England Before and After 1820 The Gothic revival in England before and after 1820 was very different in many ways. Before the start of the Gothic revival the mediaeval style, since the last Gothic structure in 1509 of Henry VII ’s chapel, was seen as irrational and illogical and as one man described it as barbaric. This was one of the main causes that the mediaeval buildings of the 18th century fell into disrepair. During the Cromwellian period many Gothic buildings were classical in the interior and church interiors in the 17th century became increasingly boring and plain. Many statues, altars and windows were destroyed. Some attempts at gothic architecture were made in 17th century but many were a mix-match of ideas. Even though in the early1600’s there was an early flowering of mediaeval architecture with the Kings College in Cambridge. This carried on in to the 18th century where more and more people dabbled in the gothic style with out a full understanding of how gothic architecture worked as a structural system. They confused stages of the gothic period, which were later defined by Thomas Rickman in is writing, and also used Classical forms such as pilaster and venetian windows. Many interiors were of a classical form a layout and some times other style were thrown in. Some gothic forms were even used on the exterior of building where they didn’t perform the function they were meant to. This shows how little the architects of the 18th century studied the mediaeval and how little they understood it. The interest of Gothic grew more and more as gothic was seen to stimulate the imagination. It was seen as part of English romantic tradition, which sparked off an interest in artificial ruins in landscape design of the 18th century. Which was used as a means of heightening the atmosphere of the garden. An example of some artificial ruins is that of Wimpole hall designed by James Essex in 1768. Another inspirational architect in this time was William Kent. His designs using ogee pointed arches with a classical cornice inspired Batty Langley to produce a study in which he analyzed Gothic in terms of classical orders. A comparison with true mediaeval and Gothic architecture at this time shows that at this time all Gothic architecture was a decorative style to be applied as ornament to regular structures and s... .... After the houses of parliament burnt down the chosen style was Gothic not Classical. Pugin undertook all of the interior work. Another example was Scarisbirck Hall in Southport built in 1837 the great hall was with a timber framed roof with no classical plaster ceilings and it was all based on knowledge of the mediaeval architecture and all materials used were true. Pugin’s own house in St. Marie’s Grange built in1835 is based mediaeval vernacular forms it is stone built simplified Gothic and it used the theory of fitness for purpose. With regard to his house and his other works he said ‘a picturesque that arises out of strict utility’. John Ruskin(1819-1900) was very influential, his writings ‘Seven Lamps of Architecture’ influenced many people he had many similar view to Pugin apart from the fact he was Anglican and he led the way it their Gothic Revival. He also had a hope that there may be an acceptable style of iron architecture which may be developed so that Gothic could get a new lease of life. Works Cited: The Story of Architecture, Patrick Nuggins ,1996 History of Architecture Settings & Rituals, Spiro Kosof, 1985 Gothic Revival, Georg Germann, 1972

Kenya education Essay

An Overview of the Kenyan Education System: Issues and Obstacles to Learning Posted by Lee-Anne Benoit on April 27th 2013 I’m back again with an outline of what I’ve learned about the Kenyan Education system from the diverse experiences that I’ve had. You’ll notice this blog is slightly more academic in nature, but I felt that it was important to find research to back up my own observations. Education is perceived as one of the principal motivating factors behind national economic development and it is one of the most effective ways in which individuals can ever hope to achieve better opportunities and a higher standard of living in Kenya. For these reasons Kenya has invested heavily into its education system over the past twenty years. It is my primary objective in this blog to express all that I have learned about the primary and secondary education systems in Kenya in the short 12 weeks that I have been here. I discuss the structure of primary and secondary schools, the implementation of universal free primary education (FPE), limited and equitable access to education, obstacles to learning within the classroom, special needs education and inclusion. My understanding is derived from my experiences visiting and working at eleven different public and private schools in Kenya, two Masters courses in Special Needs Education that I audited, academic journal articles as well as several discussions and conversations that I have had with various individuals related to the field of education. Structure of Primary and Secondary Education To begin, I’d like to outline what I have learned about the structure of primary and secondary schooling in Kenya. I have gained most of my insight from visiting nine different public and private schools in Nairobi and Mombasa. During these visits I was able to tour each school, observe classes, and interact with administrators, teachers, and students. What follows is an account of some of the pertinent information that I have gathered. Children begin primary classes around the age of three years old. They enter a nursery program for roughly two years before commencing Standard 1. Depending on their final KCPE (Kenyan Certificate of Primary Education) examination marks at the end of Standard 8, students may or may not qualify to attend a secondary high school. Secondary school in Kenya has four levels, forms 1 – 4 and is completed only when students finish their KCSE (Kenyan Certificate of Secondary Education) examinations. Again, student grades play a key role in determining whether or not students are able to attend university. Due to the ethnic diversity in Kenya (42 different tribes), children begin school speaking a variety of languages. Because of this, all students study their subject material predominantly in Kiswahili up until Standard 3 in a homeroom classroom. It is not until Standard 4 students are immersed in English and must follow a strict timetable of up to 10 lessons a day. The subjects taught in the primary grades include Math, English, Kiswahili, Science, Social Studies and Christian Religious Studies. Depending on the location of the school, students may study Islam. Looking through the Kenyan Primary Education curriculum documents, I noticed that art and music were indeed included in the syllabus. However, after inquiring after this, I discovered that art and music have been cut from the timetable due of the cost and perceived unimportance of the subject material. From the little experience I have, it seems as though the degree to which children are allowed to express themselves creatively through art and music depends largely on the school and classroom teachers. From personal observation I can say with confidence that the approach to education in Kenya is largely teacher centered and by the book. Teachers strictly adhere to the Kenyan syllabus for both primary and secondary students and textbooks are a teacher’s primary resource during lessons. Standardized examinations are the sole assessment techniques that I have noted being used in regular classrooms thus far to report student progress. Students in every grade level must complete these standardized examinations at the end of each term, including students in preprimary programs. Grades are critical indicators of success and failure in the lives of students for they ultimately determine whether or not one is able to advance to secondary school. As I mentioned earlier, students must complete their KCP examinations at the end of standard 8. These are national, standardized exams in all subject areas and are worth a total of 400 marks. Students must achieve a minimum of 250 marks if they wish to enter secondary school. In order to graduate High School students must complete their KCSE examinations, and achieve high grades if they wish to enter university. I would like to point out that Kenyan teachers have excellent classroom management. Most of the students that I have observed are incredibly well behaved and show a level of focus and respect that I have not seen on such a large scale before. I am impressed by teacher’s classroom control especially considering the large class sizes that they handle on a daily basis. I attribute this classroom control to the use of corporal punishment, which is considered to be the norm in Kenya. It has also been argued that students’ passivity in the classroom dates back to British colonial days and has been an aid and a challenge in encouraging students to take responsibility for their learning (Ackers and Hardman, 2001). Universal Free Primary Education Another key point that warrants discussion is the implementation of FPE, Universal Free Primary Education, in Kenya. Many of the challenges that the Education system currently faces are directly linked to the implementation of FPE. G. J. Cheserek and V. K.  Mugalavai argue that the main problems facing the education system are, â€Å"issues of access, equity, quality, relevance and efficiency in the management of educational resources,† (2012, 473). The following discussion will elaborate on such issues. As of January 2003, the NARC government established the FPE program to satisfy the pledge it made during the 2002 general elections in order to provide opportunities to disadvantaged children (Makori). This project was a great success in terms of the increased enrollment of disadvantaged children. More than 1.5 million children enrolled in public schools across the country, (Makori). However, the country was not yet prepared to accommodate such a large increase as can be seen by such drastic consequences. Few primary schools were built to accommodate the influx of students, which led to over crowding and congested classrooms. There was a shortage of teachers at the time, which led to the employment of unqualified teachers (Makori). Schools lost revenue from the lack of tuition fees, which led to a strain on teaching materials and resources as well as limited physical facilities (Makori). Lastly, teachers’ challenges increased as their class sizes grew. Although Primary School tuition fees have been abolished, several factors continue to impede access to education in Kenya. Many parents still cannot afford to pay for school uniforms, textbooks, transport, meals and supplies, without which students cannot attend school (Glennerster and Kremer, 2011). These fees are especially difficult for marginalized children such as females, orphans, and the financially underprivileged. Poor health and the inability to seek medical attention also impede many children’s access to education and negatively affect their academic performance, (Glennerster and Kremer, 2011). Many children cannot attend school due to intestinal worms, malaria, and other health concerns such as malnutrition, which can seriously affect their cognitive development. A teacher at the Kiambui Primary School informed me that many of the students arrived at school without having eaten breakfast and who did not bring lunches. Many teachers, despite their low salaries, felt obligated to bring food for the most needy. Lastly, there is an issue of distance and transportation. For some, transportation is unaffordable and the distance to school is too great to walk, which renders the possibility of attending school impossible (Glennerster and Kremer, 2011). Despite advancements in accessing primary education, access to secondary education has remained quite low in comparison. There are a number of reasons that account for this. For instance, secondary schools still require tuition payments. Although these fees have been reduced, it is still quite expensive for many. Distance also plays a major role for some in accessing education. As of 2011 there were approximately 26, 000 primary schools and 6, 500 secondary schools spread across the country, which meant that many communities did not have a nearby high school (Glennerster and Kremer, 2011). Poor KCPE examinations scores at the end of Standard 8 also create a barrier in accessing Secondary School. 2004 KCPE results show that a much higher percentage of students from private schools qualify for secondary school than public school, which has led to an overrepresentation of private school graduates attending top Kenyan Secondary Schools (Glennerster and Kremer, 2011). The quality of primary education, so it seems, acts as a serious barrier to obtaining secondary education. Finally, there is limited space in secondary school so parents and students alike must compete for placement in one if not one of the elite National schools. Yet another interesting point to note is that FPE does not enable all children equitable access to quality education; the key word here being ‘quality. ’ There is an alarming difference between the quality of education that public schools offer vs. that of private schools as noted earlier. After visiting both private and public schools I can attest to the difference. The five private schools that I visited had a low teacher to student ratio, more resources and materials for students, an adequate amount of desks for their student body, as well as electricity and running water. On the contrary, some of the public schools that I visited had class sizes of 60 to 80 students, limited electricity, insufficient textbooks and desks for students. There is much speculation that the poor performance of public school graduates on the KCPE examinations is due to a number of specific factors. For example, because of the increased enrollment in primary schools in 2003, teachers had to contend with extraordinarily large class sizes made up of a diverse range of students whose preparedness varied. Circumstances such as these diminish a teacher’s ability to differentiate their instruction and give individualized attention. Resources and materials are spread thin and mobility within classrooms becomes limited. It is thought that this large influx of â€Å"first generation learners† has contributed to declining test scores in the public school system (Glennerster and Kremer, 2011). It is also thought that poor performance in primary schools is perpetuated by an increasing stratification between public and private schools. This disparity becomes all the more clear when considering the disparity between the KCPE scores of public and private school graduates (Glennerster and Kremer, 2011). Under qualified teachers has also been stated as a factor as well as corruption. Obstacles to Learning Within the Classroom â€Å"For Kenya to be internationally competitive and economically viable, the Republic of Kenya requires an education system that will produce citizens who are able to engage in lifelong learning, learn new skills quickly, perform more non – routine tasks, capable of more complex problem-solving, take more decisions, understand more about what they are working on, require less supervision, assume more responsibility, have more vital tools, have better reading culture, quantitative analysis, reasoning and expository  skills† (Cheserek and Mugalavai, 2012, 472). As this statement explains, Kenya needs a strong education system that will train individuals to meet the growing economic needs of society. However, as discussed previously, evidence shows that students in public primary schools are achieving significantly lower their private school counterparts. There are a number of factors that can account for this disparity, which directly relate to the quality of primary education and the interactions between teacher and pupil. In 2001, Jim Ackers and Frank Hardman conducted a study on classroom interactions in primary schools in Kenya and found that the predominant teaching style was characterized by the ‘transmission of knowledge’ and was teacher focused in nature. Students were motivated to participate but answered preplanned, ‘closed’ questions and lessons often involved a high degree of choral response and repetition of memorized information (Ackers and Hardman, 2001). They go on to write that, â€Å"there were few examples of interaction between teacher and pupils that extended or even encouraged higher order thinking because of the domination of the recitation mode, where typically the teacher asks a series of pre-planned questions, initiates all the topics, and rarely interacts with the substance of the pupils’ answers except to evaluate them†(Ackers and Hardman, 2001, 12). Interestingly enough, this literature mirrors my own observations. I also noted the predominance of a rote learning style of teaching while visiting a number of primary schools. The teachers that I observed lectured on a topic for a large portion of a lesson and then questioned students to see what they were able to absorb. I did not observe any inter pupil interactions or discussions during class time. Rather, students spent the remainder of the class silently copying notes and answering questions from the board. I observed this pattern across multiple subjects and classrooms. Acker and Hardman point out that impediments to learning also include a lack of teaching resources and poor physical conditions of classroom spaces (2001). From what I have noted, the blackboard and student textbooks are the primary teaching aids in a lot of schools. Another obstacle to learning within primary grades is the size of the class. In many cases, teachers can have upwards to 80 students at a time in a regular sized classroom, which creates a congested environment. In such cases it is virtually impossible for a single teacher to meet the needs of every individual learner. Differentiation becomes ineffectual, as does mobility within the classroom. Resources are spread thin and many struggling learners are overlooked. In addition to overcrowded classrooms, teachers face many challenges, which in turn affect student performance. Firstly, they are under a great deal of pressure to teach all of the curriculum outcomes in order to prepare students for their examinations. Combined with a lack of funding and classroom space, teachers are at a loss when it comes to planning creative lessons. Secondly, teachers face a strong tradition of teaching practice that is both historically and culturally embedded. Attitudes towards change can be stubborn, making transformation a slow process. Thirdly, teachers lack an appropriate amount of support and assistance within the classroom as well as opportunities for professional development. As it stands, resource and literacy programs are virtually non-existent in schools, and the government cannot afford to pay for assistants within the classroom. Few primary schools can even afford a library. Fourthly, and in part due to distance, there are barriers to communication between home and school, which negatively impacts student progress. Lastly, primary school teachers work for very low wages, which can be demotivating for some, ultimately affecting their professional pedagogical practice. For many teachers and students alike, school can be a truly sink or swim endeavor. Special Needs Education and Inclusion My insight into special needs education derives from two sources. Firstly, I have audited two Masters level courses on special needs education in Kenya entitled Guidance and Counseling of Special Needs students and Issues and Problems in Special Needs Education. Secondly, I have worked for a short time at a private special needs school entitled Bright Hills. In addition to Bright Hills, I have also visited three different ‘Special Units’ in public schools: Kaimbui Primary School, Kilimani Primary School, and Muchatha Primary School. I would like to share some of the pertinent information that I have learned. According to my own personal experience and research, special needs education is predominantly segregated from general education classes. Many primary and secondary schools have classes termed ‘Special Units. ’ These classes are home to students who have a wide range of learning needs, which â€Å"cannot† be met by regular classroom teachers. I have been told that Special Units are inclusive in the sense that all students who have a disability or a special need share a common learning space. It is the role of the special education teacher to tackle the challenging task of differentiating lessons for many students who have varying degrees of learning dependency. Many of the students of Bright Hills Special Needs School are taught the regular primary school curriculum. However, other special needs students are given vocational training, which I observed at the Kiambui Special Unit and the Deaf and Blind Unit at the Kilimani Primary School. Learning skills such as beading and weaving give students the potential to earn a livelihood outside of school and become productive members of society. Although the Kenyan Minister of Education approved a policy in 2009 that supports the equitable access to quality education and training of learners with special needs, special needs education still faces many challenges. The factors that hinder the provision of education for special needs learners include vague guidelines that describe the implementation of an inclusive policy, insufficient data on children with special needs, ineffective assessment tools, curriculum, and a lack of qualified professionals, (Lynch, McCall, Douglas, McLinden, Mogesa, Mwaura, Njoroge, 2011). Many of the discussions in which I participated in my class: Issues and Problems in Special Needs Education mirrored this argument. Major issues that were discussed include the stigmatization of persons with disabilities, a lack of funding to equip teachers with the resources, materials and support required to meet learners needs, a lack of curriculum adaptations, differentiation, appropriate methodology and qualified personnel, inappropriate and biased assessment measures and the misdiagnosis of learning disabilities, which leads to the misplacement of Students in Special Units. I have also had several discussions concerning the implementation of inclusive educational practices within Kenyan Schools. Many of my classmates believe that inclusion is indeed the way forward in reforming the issues inherent in special needs education. Others however, believe that inclusive education is too ambitious a reform to make. Dr. Mary Runo stated in a lecture that she is not certain that inclusive education is what Kenya presently needs. Rather, the focus of reform should be on government policy and persistent negative attitudes towards disabilities. Although inclusive practices are in a fledgling state in Kenya, there are a few successful cases. Take for example the Kilimani Primary School, which is the only school in Nairobi that incorporates the hearing and visually impaired into general classrooms. Numerous supports are provided to students such as braillers, translators, adaptations, and individual assistance. The Kilimani School also has a segregated Special Unit for those who are deaf or blind as well as a Special Unit specifically for those who are deaf and blind, both of which are well equipped with qualified and dedicated teachers as well as a diverse range of teaching aids and resources. It is common practice for a Primary school to pull struggling students out of the regular classroom and place them in a Special Unit for a short time until they can successfully transition back into a regular classroom. The Kyangoma Primary School has 68 special needs learners, the majority of which study in a Special Unit. However, students who have physical disabilities or are highly functioning cognitively are integrated into general classrooms in order to follow the regular school curriculum. Although integration does not equate inclusion, it is evidence that there is a growing acceptance of inclusive practices. Overall, I would argue that special needs learners are segregated from regular classrooms for the most part and that levels of inclusive practice vary from school to school, depending on financial resources, teachers’ attitudes, and community support. Conclusion It is difficult to articulate all that I have learned about the Kenyan education system in the past twelve weeks, as my experiences have been diverse and I have come to understand the cultural context within which this system works. The education system in Kenya has been undergoing considerable change since the induction of Universal Free Primary Education in 2003. Despite the many deep rooted and interconnected problems that impede equitable access to quality education, reformation is high on the government’s list of priorities. One thing that I can confidently attest to is the unquestionable confidence and positivity that I have encountered in many Kenyans who strongly believe in the advancement of the education system. Kenya’s future is bright as long as these discussions continue and individuals strive to make change. References Ackers, J. , & Hardman, F. (2001). Classroom Interaction in Kenyan Primary Schools. Compare, 31(2), 245-61. Cheserek, G. , & Mugalavai, V. (2012). Challenges and Reforms Facing Kenyan Education System in the 21st Century: Integrating the Principles of Vision 2030 and Constitution 2010. Journal Of Emerging Trends In Educational Research & Policy Studies, 3(4), 471-478. Glennerster, R. , Kremer, M. , Mbiti, I. , & Takavarasha, K. (2011). Access and Quality in the Kenyan Education System: A Review of the Progress, Challenges and Potential. Retrieved from: http://www. povertyactionlab. org/sites/default/files/publications/Access%20and%20Quality%20in%20the%20Kenyan%20Education%20System%202011. 06. 22. pdf KENPRO (2010). Challenges Facing Inclusive Education in Regular Primary Schools in Kenya. KENPRO Online Papers Portal. Retrieved from: www. kenpro. org/papers. Lynch, P. , McCall, S. , Douglas, G. , McLinden, M. , Mogesa, B. , Mwaura, M. , & †¦ Njoroge, M. (2011). Inclusive Educational Practices in Kenya: Evidencing Practice of Itinerant Teachers Who Work with Children with Visual Impairment in Local Mainstream Schools. International Journal Of Educational Development, 31(5), 478-488. Makori, A. Implementation of universal primary education in Kenya: An analysis of its impact and progress towards achieving the EFA goal in Kisii District. Retrieved from: http://www. kaeam. or. ke/articles/vol1/makorifulltext. pdf Category: Uncategorized // 16 Comments  » 16 Responses to â€Å"An Overview of the Kenyan Education System: Issues and Obstacles to Learning† 1. women fashion show 2013 // June 25th 2013 Someone essentially help to make critically posts I would state. That is the very first time I frequented your website page and so far? I surprised with the analysis you made to create this particular publish incredible. Fantastic task! 2. Graham Mulligan // July 3rd 2013 Lee-Anne, thank you for this post. I concur with everything you describe regarding the current state of Primary Education in Kenya. Although there is much hope for change, there are enormous challenges ahead. I wonder what specific improvements can be made, especially in the many isolated and impoverished public primary schools. I am currently planning a short visit to do teacher training in some of these schools. Do you have any suggestions for me? cheers Graham 3. Rahab // July 4th 2013 Your observations are very insightful and on point. It is rather disturbing that all education activities in the Kenyan system end up creating bottle necks at some point or other. What are your suggestions on making the system create paths for learners graduating from the various levels of the system? How can the system encourage student creativity and participation both in school and out of school? Is there hope that the Kenya education system will ever become learner centered rather than content and teacher centered? 4. desigual sale // July 17th 2013 Someone essentially help to make critically articles I might state. That is the first time I frequented your web page and to this point? I amazed with the analysis you made to make this actual put up extraordinary. Wonderful job! 5. Evelyn Corrado // July 17th 2013 Very insightful paper for my study; I am researching on how we can move from teacher centered approach in Kenyan education into student focused, where students can creatively use their reasoning minds, work together to problems solve and bring in their daily experiences into learning.. i agree learning molds the Kenyan society and if problem solving & conflict resolution is not enhanced in schools, no wonder the ethnic conflicts in Kenya society & God-father system where minority rule and the rest can’t challenge it, for lack of confidence . 6. Alice Wawira // July 29th 2013 This is quite helpful and you have done great job. Just check: KCPE mark is 500 not 400. The public schools suffer a lot of deficiency ranging from teachers to resources. If only teachers were enough something like 1:25-35 which is the current proposal to the education ministry; enough classrooms and resources, I don’t think the syllabus would be a problem however wide. I’m inclined to believe so because the private schools and the well-established national schools manage to cover the syllabus long before the end of fourth year in secondary and end of eigth year in primary. The discipline exhibited by the students in the classroom as you explained is one major strength in these schools and as such, it would be quite helpful even in content coverage. Kenya is becoming gradually aware of SEN and some progress has been made. I would however wish that we borrowed a leaf from the international system where children with SEN are allowed to sit special exams and even have assistants in classroom and during exams. In Kenya, almost all the times they sit the same exam only that special consideration and provisions(like brille and additional time) are given during and after the national exams. The worst is when a child in hospital or one who has just given birth is allowed to sit the same exam as any other in good health. News has it that computers will come in handy for the hearing-impaired and this will be great. Fantastic job you have done. Having worked in the Kenyan system and in the international as well, I can’t fail to see the flaws in the former and I hope to do something about it only that for now, I have no idea where to start. 7. Leonard Kiarago // August 2nd 2013 Indeed, Kenya has a long way to go before the government is able to provide ‘quality education’; however, we must agree that there is some progress despite the obstacles. Kenya has the resources, the manpower and the capacity to provide the young generation with quality education. Kenya has highly qualified professionals produced by top universities all over the world, unfortunately when it comes to policy development and decision making, that is left to politicians leading to wrong policies being implemented without consideration for need assessment or putting priorities right. Take, for example, the issue of laptops for every kid joining primary school; is that really a priority for the Kenyan kids? Even in developed countries like the UK the government doesn’t provide laptops/computers to every single kid, instead schools have a computer lab used during IT lessons or for lessons requiring some research. Instead of considering building and equipping more classrooms as well as recruiting more teachers, the government is thinking about laptops for schools some of which kids learn under trees and with no electricity or teachers who have basic IT knowledge. The subject of how inclusive education should be implemented is a controversial one because even in developed countries like UK, they still  maintain special schools because inclusive practice is not just a matter of closing special schools and taking children with SEN to mainstream schools. How do you put a child with special needs in a class of 80 kids and call that inclusive education? For inclusive education to be successful there must be availability of resources and manpower as well as change of attitude by those who consider themselves ‘normal’. How that can be possible in a country divided through tribal and ethnic affiliations remains a big issue. If Kenyans cannot accommodate fellow Kenyans from a different tribe, how can they accommodate those perceived to be ‘abnormal’? What is most worrying is that any time you listen to news or read newspapers, the most likely headline to find is about a certain politician from a given community attacking another one from a different community instead of engaging in constructive politics. The article posted a few days ago in daily nation in which a governor was threatening to shut down schools just because they were built on the boundary by a neighbouring county leader is a good example of what I mean: http://www. nation. co. ke/News/Leader-orders-schools-shut-in-boundary-row/-/1056/1930912/-/view/printVersion/-/khd48cz/-/index. html ‘A society’s treatment of those who are weak and dependent is one critical indicator of its social progress’. This was an observation by Kirk, Gallagher and Anastasiow (1997) who in their study of children with special needs noted that social attitudes towards the education and care of children with special needs reflect the general cultural attitudes concerning the obligations of a society to its citizens. The problem with the provision of education in Kenya can only be solved if the government allowed professionals to contribute to policies related to their field of expertise and to set aside funds for research so that policies can be validated through research to avoid implementing policies, which are politically driven. (Kiarago is a doctoral researcher at the University of Birmingham) 8. Pierre Varly // August 19th 2013 thanks a lot for your excellent article full of infos and very well structured. i have a blog on education in the developping countries where i could publish the article also if you agree. 9. Isaac Maluki // August 22nd 2013 Thank you for your good report. Kindly tell me, how many students qualify for university education in Kenya but do not make it for lack of school fees? 10. Amen K. Rahh // October 3rd 2013 Thank you for this insightful blog. I would however like to point out the roll of ICT and the growing impact online learning is having on learning in schools. With the introduction of laptops for primary school students, the Government seems to understand the survival of the failing education system is depended on IT solutions. http://www. cc-gate. com as well as the CCK are working on online content and tutoring coming in the future. 11. Edy // November 5th 2013 Hi, I found this blog a few days ago as I was looking for some research into the Kenyan education system. You have done wonderful analysis. However, one correction to your information is that Swahili is not the predominant teaching tool for Nursery-Std 4 pupils. In fact, and to the contrary, English is widely used to instruct children because apart from Swahili, all other disciplines, Math and Science included cannot be feasibly administered in Swahili. 12. John muema // November 7th 2013 these is true and i urge the government to employ more teachers 13. Agesa Akufa // November 9th 2013 This is a good, well researched and articulated work. just a point of correction, the kcpe marks total to 500 not 400. otherwise it is an impresive that will many researchers especially university students. if the government can take into account this piece of work then we should expect to see enormous steps taking root in the educational system. of course, steps to spin the country foward. i salute you! 14. THOMAS ODENY //.

Leadership and Steve Jobs

I would like to start out by saying what leadership means to me personally. According to what I learned while I was in the marines being a leader means that you have to be strong and not just on a physical level but on a mental one as well. I have seen leaders make some very tough decisions and sometimes they do have to make the tough decisions even if it is not the most popular one. In the marines leadership also meant having the task to discipline others as well as being disciplined yourself. One had to be tough so that they can show others how to be the same and survive in difficult situations that life may bring your way.I found an interesting approach to leadership in ebscohost under the article Leaders teaching Leaders written by authors Buck, Marty and Martin, Mary. This article talks about a leadership program at Medtronic Inc. that encourages leaders of the company to do a great amount of self-reflection. A direct quote from Lonny Stormo the Vice President of Medtronic Inc. states â€Å"I wanted an opportunity for my leadership team to spend time on their own development,† explains Lonny Stormo, vice president for Pre-Market Quality.â€Å"In our busy day-to-day work, we don't give our leaders enough time to reflect and identify the areas of development they think are vital for their leadership development. By carving out time †¦ you drive commitment to the process. † I believe this approach gives the leaders of that company the confidence to make intelligent decisions and the employees of the company confidence in the leaders of the company to make the right decisions. The self-identification competencies concept from the article was very intriguing to me as it mainly gives one a chance to look at the great skills they have and how the skills were learned.In my opinion this is a good concept to not only develop leadership abilities but to focus on how each individual can use their strengths to be the best leader that they can be. I h ave learned from another article in ebscohost titled Coaching written by Elowitt, Andrew that leadership can encompass many different areas. For instance, this article talks about lawyers and what is expected of them regarding management of many different cases. Lawyers are expected to have knowledge and display competent leadership abilities in multiple areas include the latest laws when it comes to technology.Although most of the skills that they are expected to know about leadership are not taught in law school it is beneficial for the lawyer to improve on many skills to develop more knowledge and become the best lawyer that they can be. This approach gave me a new view on leadership by teaching me that I could be a good leader in any field as long as I kept an open mind and have a willingness to learn new things. Another important part of this concept is going beyond just knowing the subject but this article also suggest that developing good relationship skills is very crucial t o be a good leader.In my personal years of experience I have found that the best teamwork comes when each team member has a good relationship with each other and the leader of that team. There is a quote in Business News Daily that can be found at the link http://www. businessnewsdaily. com/2632-leadership-quotes. html that Bill Gates stated that says â€Å"As we look ahead into the next century, leaders will be those who will empower others. † Another quote is â€Å"You cannot be a leader and ask others to follow you, unless you know how to follow too.† This was spoken by Sam Rayburn a former speaker of the house. These quotes mean a great deal to me when it comes to leadership. The first one by Bill Gates makes me think that in order to be a good leader that one must have a vision to see greatness and also be able to communicate that greatness to others so that they may become great as well. The second one by Sam Rayburn is one that I always lived by. It lets me know that I should lead by example and not to ask others to do what I am not willing to do myself.This method has made leaders credible and trustworthy or made them into false leaders that are basically company men. The leader I have chosen to talk about is Steve Jobs the late Apple CEO. The reason I have chosen him is because he was an important leader in my field of study which is network administration and he was an awesome leader for Apple and in the technology industry. I have discovered in Wikipedia that Steve Jobs was not only the cofounder of Apple but also Pixar Animation Studios and was viewed as a guru regarding the advancement of consumer electronics.In an article I read in ebscohost from Harvard Business Review there was a quote that was spoken about the leadership style of Steve Jobs by Gilberte Houbart director of Media Product Design that states â€Å"Steve Jobs was a role model of courage and discipline: courage to get through multiple failures and discipline to learn from them. He stayed focused and worked hard, even in the face of illness and death. † I would like to emulate his leadership abilities and this lets me know that I must have the courage to achieve even when obstacles stand in my way and that I can learn from failures.Also from what I read in ebscohost I learned that he was a very hard worker and focused individual and wanted the best from others. It has been said all over the media that Steve Jobs was very persuasive and charismatic when it came to dealing with employees. However, some of his employees described him as being erratic and temperamental and also somewhat of a bully. According to Wikipedia Jobs was a demanding perfectionist that wanted his business and products to be in the forefront of the technology industry.Steve Jobs may have been a little rough around the edges and difficult for some people to work with but I as well as many others have to admire his vision and determination to be the very best in the indust ry and sometimes hurting a few feelings along the way may be unavoidable. Steve Jobs will always be legendary for all that he has achieved for as long as there is information available for us to read. In conclusion I would like to restate what leadership means to me. According to all of my wonderful sources and personal experience I have learned that being a leader is a great deal more than just telling people what to do.Being a leader means to have a vision and being able to communicate it to other as well as developing a good relationship with them so that they will believe in your ability to lead. Steve Jobs may not have always been the most likeable person on the block but his persuasiveness and ability to project his vision was unparalleled. Being a good leader also means being a good follower. This is a concept that many leaders forget but is very fundamental in getting people to believe in one’s ability to be a good leader rather than the employee just viewing that per son as someone telling them what to do.There are also many times when the decision that the leader makes is not always the most popular one but if the person that is in leadership learns to evaluate their selves as I mentioned that I learned from a project that is going on in Medtronic Inc. they will learn to be confident in their decisions and evaluate that the right course of action is being made. I now know that to be an effective leader I will have a vision and pursue knowledge in spite of any obstacles that may come into my path to success. I will persevere and learn from my failures and learn to be persuasive hopefully in a manner similar to Steve Jobs.

How successful the D-Day landings were

There were different levels of successes and failures at different areas of D-day. The British airborne had many successes. Not only were they the first units to fly over the Channel Islands, dropping ruperts and windows on Roven, but they captured all their targets (including the town of Sainte Mere Englise). The Germans thought there was no chance of attack due to the abominable weather conditions that day which left them venerable. They did, of course, also experience failures. There was fierce German resistance. This obviously made it very difficult for them to reach their specific targets. Source G mentions that â€Å"much has been made of the poor quality of the German troops defending the Channel coast† I think this probably depends in which country you are in. If you are German then the story is probably told very differently. Even here in England we know that the resistance form the Germans was fierce and was indeed hard to overcome. However, with the allies good troops and their excellent new technology they managed to overcome this obstacle. Source G also mentions that the German troops brought the allies close to defeat on Omaha beach. I don't believe this too be true. Although Omaha was one of the most difficult areas of D-day, the allies won the battle and the defences were breached. Overall, the British airborne area of D-day was very successful. Helping to capture many of the D-day targets. The US airborne was not as successful as the British. They landed 25 miles off course and lost 60% of their equipment. The postponement of D-day had meant a 48 hour vigil on the sea floor, crews endured horrific cramped conditions. The US could have been more organised, this may have led to less mistakes. However, they did eventually recoup and secure their targets. At Utah, troops pushed inland and secured the beach. US reports said operations at Utah were â€Å"smooth, perfectly coordinated and magnificent†. Nevertheless, the beach was heavily lined with mines. Overall, all went well, only real problem was with the mines, but even that was overcome. At Omaha the battle was won and the defences breached. Anyhow, there were huge amounts of casualties. Some were caused by rough seas, some by underwater beach obstacles and some by enemy fire. Lots of tanks were lost and fog and heavy cloud made off course bombs. In conclusion, although there was a devastating amount of casualties, they did finally liberate Omaha beach. At Gold the troops used Hobart funnies, which helped to keep the losses relatively light. The troops pushed into Bayeux and by 8. 00am villages were celebrating liberation. The beach was extensively mined and covered by heavy guns and the villages provided cover for the German snipers. Moreover, although there was strong resistance, the losses were relatively light. At Juno beach the Canadians also used Hobart funnies to get round the huge obstacles. By the evening the troops were heading for Caen. Although the area was protected by heavy guns, perhaps the most difficult part was getting around the obstacles such as a tall concrete wall, which all made up parts of the Atlantic wall. Source H shows some of those parts. The pictures infer ally failure. They also seem to be posed, as if they are trying to impress people with their fierce looking defences. You can see this because in the first picture, for example, there is no one on the beach, and on the third the soldier looks like he has been told to stand there for the picture. Even with all these drastic defence mechanisms, the allies still managed to clear them using the Hobart Funnies. At Sword, the biggest worry was the very strong Le Havre battery, with guns across the landing area, there was also very poor visibility. Even so, the seafront defences were breached and the population of Ouistreham was delighted to find that their liberators included a â€Å"free French† battalion. The mulberry harbours were constructed, and the teams of surgeons came over with them. Both the Americans and the British used Mulberry Harbour's. Despite the American harbour being wrecked by heavy weather after 4 days use, the Harbours played a vital part in the success of ‘Operation Overlord'. In the first 6 days of use of the British Mulberry, 326,000 troops, 54,000 vehicles and 100,000 tons of supplies were handled. Source D is the British harbour at Arromanches. The mulberry in the picture looks very successful, with everything appearing to be in working order. Some people even go as far as saying that mulberry harbours were the greatest invention that came out of D-day. In conclusion, I think the D-day landings were very successful for the allies. After all, not only did they breach all of the German defences, they fought a victorious and courageous battle.