Compare and contrast the three poems exploring the image each poet gives to pre-1900 London Essay

The three poems ‘Conveyancing,’ ‘Composed Upon West-Minister Bridge, September 3rd, 1820,’ and ‘London’ give an image and they show a diverse view of Pre-1900 London. All three poems are written by male poets, they use various techniques, style and imagery, that give different effects to the reader. 3 POEMS The first poem is ‘Conveyancing’ and is written by Thomas Hood; it’s about the movement from one place to another by using different vehicles such as Gurneys, hackney carriages and horse drawn caravans, which were used in the Victorian times. He says that the horse’s work is done by the powers of attorney. This poem shows humour and lighthearted jokes. An example of this would be cab-age; here the poet uses this so that it rhymes with Queen Mab age. Also he uses this as to make a mockery of the word cabbage, while referring to the age or era of the cab. The poet picks out words and phrases from Shakespeare’s plays such as Queen Mab who is a character from ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ she is the Queen of fairies and causes mischief that rides in a carriage made of nutshells. Also he uses a phrase ‘The world a sage has call’d a stage’ he refers to this as the ‘sage’ being Shakespeare the wise man and he said life was a stage on which we all performed. He writes about how there are loads of people in London and that everyone loves London. He uses the word Loco-motion to slow the rhyme down. He talks about an unknown character Jarvis and a man named Malthus who wanted to control the population. He describes them by showing their character through many ways by rhyming and by emphasising the words. He quotes a line from a silly little song and he doesn’t want be caught on a journey with boring people. If a handkerchief was taken from the side of your trousers and u didn’t notice till ages, you wouldn’t be able to see who took your handkerchief because there was so much traffic going past. The poet’s attitude to the poem is that, he tries to make the poem cheerful by rhyming and emphasis. He uses false rhyme such as cab-age and dickey, which is slang term for yucky! It’s a witty poem with a lot of merry jokes. Stanzas put the structure of the poem together, which gives a good impact on the reader because it’s such a long poem and it’s easier to read. The poem is observational and full of detail because, he describes all the different types of transport, names of shops and the different characters. Reference to the songs, which are written in irregular verses, allows him to use irregular voices and rhymes. London is a very busy city; therefore there are many places and objects for the poet to express. The second poem is ‘Composed Upon West-Minister Bridge†¦.’ which is written by William Wordsworth; this poem is about how the atmosphere around London and how it differs from the early morning to the late afternoon. In the morning the atmosphere is clean and steady whereas in the afternoon it’s smoky and cloudy. He writes about how he admires the view of London and how people are missing out on this magnificent view of the day. If you didn’t see this view, it would show that you’re insensitive, you had no feelings and you were dull. He describes this view as powerful and grand and calls it ‘its majesty,’ he says this just because it rhymes with ‘pass by,’ which is on the line above this. He is so high up that he can see all the skylines and he can see the horizon of the countryside. As the sun rises, you can see the sun lighting up the city. He has a feeling of calmness by watching this sight of awe. There are no people moving because it’s so early in the morning and the town is still. The poet’s tone is that he has a positive attitude about London. He is in high spirits when seeing this wonderful view so early in the morning of London. He believes that this is the most beautiful place to be on Earth at this very moment. He also assumes that if you haven’t seen this view then you haven’t got no spirit in you at all, because you are missing out on such a sight. He puts his message across by being very affirmative and putting a grudge against the people who haven’t seen this sight. He expresses himself through his awe of the view. His choices of words are very vivid and vibrant. He uses similes and a lot of personification, to describe this city. There’s no humour in the poem but a lot of detailed expressions. Rhymes are used to make the poem more appealing in order to maintain the rhythm. The formation of this poem is in the form of a sonnet. London is a very beautiful place and nothing on Earth is more beautiful than this morning. The final poem is called ‘London’ and is written by William Blake; this poem is about fears, and gives a darker view of London at that time. It talks about how people are affected by the plague of poverty and how little children are sent up chimneys to clean them. Also, how the people are mentally and physically trapped because there’s so much grime and dirt. He writes about the harsh conditions that drag everyone down and how the prostitutes would regularly give birth. All the people are miserable and they are trapped in an environment of gloom. How in every voice you hear the cry of fear. He writes about the psychological handcuffs that restrict you. Now that soldiers have returned they risk death everyday. When you get married it is the happiest day of your life and the atmosphere around you is blissful, whereas in this poem the poet describes the poem as being a funeral carriage. Even though there is a wedding it feels like a funeral and people are still in fe ar. The poverty has increased immensely. The people’s expressions are described as sad, mournful and sombre. The poet’s attitude to this poem is distressing; he doesn’t look on the positive of ‘London’ but on the negative side. He writes about how the people have caught the plague and how everyone is miserable. The mood of the poem is dull and wretched; it has no life to it. It feels like the life has been taken away and been replaced by the plague. His choices of words are old fashioned; he uses words like ‘harlots’ ‘blights’ and ‘manacles.’ Similes, personification and metaphors aren’t used. The only imagery used is rhyme, which I believe makes the poem even drearier. The construction of the poem is in stanzas; this is to separate the poem up. Because the plague has spread everywhere and ruined peoples lives there’s isn’t a social area of this poem. The historical and cultural contexts tell us that in the Victorian epoch, the children were the chimneysweepers because they were little enough to get up there, this was also cruelty to the children as this was their child labour. Also, contraception wasn’t available, prostitutes were giving birth frequently. Back then it was more of a manufacturing era; therefore there was a lot of smoke and filth in the atmosphere. This caused the churches to turn black. I believe that, Blake sees nothing to admire except hardship and suffering. COMPARE AND CONTRAST ‘Conveyancing’ and ‘Composed Upon West-Minister Bridge†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ show a comparison by giving a positive attitude towards London. ‘Conveyancing’ talks about the movement of different transportations and ‘Composed Upon West Minister Bridge†¦.’ talks about the beautifulness of the still city in the morning. Both the poems are written in full detail, ‘Conveyancing’ has a lot of rhyming, emphasis, rhythm and has a lot of humour. There is a lot of action and deeds. Also in this poem, it talks about how there is a lot of traffic and noise. The poem is split up in stanzas so it’s straightforward to read. Many old- fashioned words and phrases are used to indicate the type of language used. Humour and light-hearted jokes are used to highlight the poem, so it’s more amusing to read. It’s observational and imaginable, so that it’s easy to understand. This poem is a contrast to ‘Composed Upon West Minister Bridge†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ by the way in which the linguistics have been used. There is a lot of personification, rhythm and similes. The atmosphere is calm, serene and cool. The poem talks about the glorious view of London in the morning and how there are no people moving around. All the houses are asleep. Also how the sun lightens the city with its superb shine. There’s no action in this poem but the poet is still observing. The atmosphere is calmer, whereas in the first poem there is a lot of traffic and hustling. ‘Conveyancing’ and ‘London’ show a contrast. ‘Conveyancing,’ talks about the different types of transport and the action happening in London. ‘London’ shows the darker side of the city and of how people’s lives have changed because of the poverty. The poet writes a lot about fear, woe and tears, whereas in ‘Conveyancing’ the poet uses witty and humorous jokes. This poem is very mournful, but in ‘Conveyancing’ the poem is light-hearted. In ‘Conveyancing’ a lot of imagery is used. A lot of imagery is used in ‘London’ as well because of the restricted manacles and the children crying. ‘Composed Upon West Minister Bridge†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ and ‘London’ is another contrast. ‘Composed Upon West Minister Bridge†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ talks about a bright atmosphere whereas ‘London’ writes about a dull atmosphere. ‘Composed Upon West Minister Bridge†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ talks about how the sunrises and lightens the city, whereas in ‘London’ if the sun-rose there still wouldn’t be any joy in the city because of the spread of the plague. In both ‘Composed Upon West Minister Bridge†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ and ‘London,’ both poets use Imagery, expressing good and ghastly language. MY FAVOURITE Out of all the three poems, I have read and looked at, I would say that my preferred poem would have to be ‘Composed Upon West-Minister Bridge†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ This is because the poem shows a calmer tone and a positive mood about London. The poem is written out and structured in a sonnet; therefore, it’s not too long and it’s concise. The poet uses a lot of linguistic imagery, which makes the poem more interesting. If I had to describe this poem, I would say that it as very, vivid and vibrant. The way the poet describes this poem is exalted. He uses personification to describe London in detail, rhyme to keep up the rhythm and he uses simile to compare London to beautiful garments. I especially liked this poem as the mood is subtle and has a tranquil atmosphere. Although there isn’t any humour, you can still imagine this awed view that Wordsworth portrays. I believe that this was the only poem where the poet expressed his feelings in full detail by using diff erent types of linguistic features on his view of London

Behavioral Anchored Rating Scale Essay

Methods of performance appraisal: Traditional method Traditional method of performance appraisal has been used by companies for very long time. A common feature of these methods is they are all relatively simple and involve appraisal by one senior. 1. Check list method In this method the senior, the boss is given a list of questions about the junior. These questions are followed by check boxes. The superior has to put a tick mark in any one of the boxes. This method can be explained with the following ex. Does the employee have leadership qualities Yes No A questioner containing questions is given to the senior. This method is an extremely simple method and does not involve a lot of time. The same set of questioners can be given foe every employee so that there is uniformity in selecting employee. 2. Confidential report This method is very popular in government departments to appraise IAS officers and other high level officials. In this method the senior or the boss writes a report about the junior giving him details about the performance about the employee. The +ve and – ve traits, responsibilities handled on the job and recommendations for future incentives or promotions. The report is kept highly confidential and access to the report is limited. 3. Critical incident method In this method critical or important incidents which have taken place on this job are noted down along with employee’s behavior and reaction in all these situations. Both +ve and –ve incidents are mentioned. This is followed by an analysis of the person, his abilities and talent, recommendations for the future incentives and promotions. 4. Ranking method In this method ranks are given to employees based on their performance. There are different methods of ranking employees. †¢Simple ranking method †¢Alternate ranking method †¢Paired comparison method Simple ranking method Simple ranking method refers to ranks in serial order from the best employee e.g. If we have to rank 10 best employees we start with the first best employee and give him the first rank this is followed by the 2nd best and so on until all 10 have been given ranks. Alternate ranking In this method the serial alternates between the best and the worst employee. The best employee is given rank 1and then we move to the worst employee and give him rank 10 again to 2nd best employee and give him rank 2 and so on. Paired comparison In this method each and every person is the group, department or team is compared with every other person in the team/group/department. The comparison is made on certain criteria and finally ranks are given. This method is superior because it compares each and every person on certain qualities and provides a ranking on that basis. 5. Graphic rating scale Graphic rating scale refers to using specific factors to appraise people. The entire appraisal is presented in the form of a chart. The chart contains certain columns which indicate qualities which are being appraised and other columns which specify the rank to be given. The senior has to put a tick mark for a particular quality along with the ranking. Such charts are prepared for every employee. According to the department in which they work. Sometimes the qualities which are judged may change depending upon the department. 6. Narrated essay In this method the senior or the boss is supposed to write a narrative essay describing the qualities of his junior. He may describe the employees strength and weakness, analytical abilities etc. the narrative essay ends with a recommendation for future promotion or for future incentives. Modern methods Modern methods of appraisal are being increasingly used by companies. Now days one of the striving feature that appraisal involves is, the opinion of many people about the employee and in some cases psychological test are used to analyze the ability of employee. These methods are as follows 1. Assessment centers Assessment centers are places where the employee’s are assessed on certain qualities talents and skills which they possess. This method is used for selection as well as for appraisal. The people who attend assessment centers are given management games, psychological test, puzzles, questioners about different management related situations etc. based on their performance in these test and games appraisal is done. 2. Management by objective This method was given by Petter Druckard in 1974. It was intended to be a method of group decision making. It can be use for performance appraisal also. In this method all members of the department starting from the lowest level employee to the highest level employee together discus, fix target goals to be achieved, plan for achieving these goals and work together to achieve them. The seniors in the department get an opportunity to observe their junior- group efforts, communication skills, knowledge levels, interest levels etc. based on this appraisal is done. 3. Behavioral anchored rating scale In this method the appraisal is done to test the attitude of the employee towards his job. Normally people with +ve approach or attitude view and perform their job differently as compared to people with a –ve approach. 4. Human resource audit/accounting In this method the expenditure on the employee is compared with the income received due to the efforts of the employee. A comparison is made to find out the utility of the employee to the organization. The appraisal informs the employee about his contribution to the company and what is expected in future. 5. 360* appraisal In this method of appraisal and all round approach is adopted. Feedback about the employee is taken from the employee himself, his superiors, his juniors, his colleagues, customers he deals with, financial institutions and other people he deals with etc. Based on all these observations an appraisal is made and feedback is given. This is one of the most popular methods.

ALZHEIMERS Essays - Cognitive Disorders, Psychiatric Diagnosis

ALZHEIMER'S Brian Foster Health March 2, 1999 Alzheimer's disease was first described by Alois Alzheimer. Alois Alzheimer was a German psychiatrist and neuropathologist and he first described it in 1906. The disease was first thought to be a rare condition affecting only young people, and was referred to as presenite dementia. About 10 percent of the United States population over the age of 65 is affected by Alzheimer's disease, and up to 45 percent of those over the age of 85 may have the disease. Up to 2 million people suffer from it, or one percent of the population. During the early stages of the disease, a person forgets daily events, but they can still recall things that happened many years ago. Memory loss worsens during the later stages of the disease, when patients forget events from earlier years, patients cannot care for themselves, and some patients can become bedridden. Most patients die from infection or chronic disease 8 to 10 years after getting the disease. The cause of Alzheimer's disease still remains mysterious. People with a family history of the disease though, have a better chance of getting it themselves. Carriers of a specific version of the apolpoprorein E gene (apo E gene) are more likely to develop the disease. Alzheimer's disease is diagnosed by examining brain tissue under a microscope to see hallmark plaques and tangles, which is only possible after the patient dies. There are some ways that you can find out if you have the disease when you are alive, but it might not be 100 percent sure. You rule out other problems that could cause memory loss like a stroke, depression, alcoholism, and the use of certain prescription drugs. A thorough examination, which includes specialized brain scans is another way of diagnosing it. A patient could be given an evaluation called a neuro pschological examination. There is no known cure for Alzheimer's disease. Treatment focuses on lessening symptoms and attempting to slow the course of the disease. Drugs that increase or improve the function of brain acetylcholine, and the neurotransmitter that affects memory, have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to help treat Alzheimer's disease. Preliminary studies say that anti-inflammatory drugs could prevent inflammation. There is evidence that the female hormone estrogen, may prevent or slow down the course of the disease. Coping with a loved one's decline and inability to recognize familiar faces causes extreme pain. Caregivers go through tons of pain and develop health and psychological problems because of so much stress. BIBLIOGRAPHY 1. Academic American Encyclopedia, Vol. I; Grolier, Inc., Danbury, CT. 1987. 2. Compton's Encyclopedia. 1992. 3. World Book Encyclopedia, World Book, Inc.; Chicago, IL 60661. 1992. 4. Microsoft-Encarta Encyclopedia, Microsoft Corporation. 1993-1998.

Research Ppaer with draft Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Ppaer with draft - Research Paper Example Since gene mutations primarily cause the condition, attempts to develop gene and cell therapies provide a possible cure for the various types of Muscular Dystrophies. However, gene and cell therapies come with several challenges, especially since the skeletal muscle is the most abundant in the human body. Gene therapy involves gene replacement or modification. As a result, the need to find an efficient method to deliver the new gene to the body becomes of paramount importance. One of the challenges facing gene therapy is the packaging of genes. For example, dystrophin, whose defects are responsible for DMD and Becker MD. Dystrophin is larger than the packaging capacity of many vectors used in delivering the gene to the skeletal muscles. According to Chamberlain 2002, truncated versions of the dystrophin gene become the solution. Research shows that truncating the Central Rod and the C-terminal domains causes minimal changes on the functionality of the dystrophin gene. Shortened versions of the dystrophin gene tested on mice in preclinical studies provide positive results indicating that the micro-dystrophins reverse the abnormalities of the dystrophic muscle.(Cossu & Sampaolesi, 2007) Gene therapy faces the challenge of identifying a favorable viral vector focusing on Adenoviral vectors (Ad), retroviruses and adeno-associated viruses (AAV). Ad vectors contain large capacity of cloning and efficiently infect the muscle. Development of the ‘gutted’ Ad tackles the problem of immune response triggered by the Ad vector. According to Chamberlain (2002), the gutted version contains the ability to package full-length cassettes of dystrophin. However, the Ad vector’s large size hinders diffusion in muscle tissue. Hence, Ad vector is not the best choice vector. Retroviruses posses small cloning capacity and hence are limited to the delivery of mini dystrophins. The most promising gene delivery vector proves to be adeno-associated virus (AAV). (Haidet, Mendell &

Revolt on the Nile Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Revolt on the Nile - Essay Example Therefore it is prudent to say that the Nile shocks had been responsible for most of the social instabilities that existed at the time (Chaney). Throughout history, it is evident that partly the bad economic times have normally given way for liberalization and room for democratic changes that had been witnessed before. Despite this fact, not all changes along the democratic lines followed this line of thought. This is because of the rise of institutions which lead to support autocratic regimes like the religion through the religious leaders. Such institutions worked closely within the social frameworks and in agreement with the autocratic governments to suppress the people (Chaney). This therefore placed the religious institutions in determining the balance within the society in the manner they operate. This does not though have empirical data though its acts have been on record and can be proven. There is therefore a negative relationship between the Nile floods and the actions by the religious groups. This is because during the Nile floods the religious groups became stronger and since they worked closely with the oppressive governments of the day, they lead to the suffering of the people. This was strengthened further as the high judge had no probability of quitting office during such a time when the Nile outburst their banks. At the time when the Nile experienced the shocks, more religious institutions were formed and became stronger. As a result the political power of the religious leaders increased. This power made the high judge wield excessive power and exert such influence on the social hierarchy given that the political power itself was a product of the influence they possessed (Chaney). The Nile floods caused an environment of social unrest where the leaders such as the high judge could swim through heightened political power.

Anglican spirituality Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Anglican spirituality - Assignment Example During the reign of Henry VIII, in England was made Reformation, pretext for which was refusal of the Pope to the king to resolve the divorce with his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. In response to the refusal of Pope, Henry VIII in 1534 issued the Act of Supremacy, by virtue of which the king was declared the head of the Church of England, and on the basis of which he independently issued his divorce through the British Parliament, bypassing sanctions of the Pope. Act of Supremacy confirmed the inviolability of all the Old Catholic doctrines and rituals; only head of the Church should have been changed - the place of the Pope in England took the king; episcopate was survived and became a pillar of absolutism. Thus, a new Church of England took a middle position between Catholicism and Protestantism. Anglicanism combines Catholic dogma of the saving power of the church with the Protestant doctrine of salvation by personal faith. A characteristic feature of the Church of England is i ts episcopal establishment, resembling Catholic one and claims to apostolic succession. In the area of dogmatics and ritual, the separation into two streams - the "high", gravitating towards Catholicism and the "low", Protestant dogmatics is noticeable. This feature allows the Anglican Church to enter into the ecumenical contacts with the Catholic Church, and with Protestant denominations. At the end of XIX - early XX century in England, there was quite a unique situation in the spiritual sense.

HistoryEconomics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

HistoryEconomics - Essay Example In order to ensure economic development of the region and employment, the state governor should support local manufacturers and mines investing in new technological development and innovative methods of environmental protection. It is possible to reduce taxes for developing companies and stipulate that the saved costs are spent on new environmentally-friendly technologies. The state can help local organizations to develop effective methods of pollution reduction and provide local companies with specialists and researchers able to develop state-of-the-art solutions for them. The local government should ensure that the standards and regulations allow local companies to work effectively (Pothey and Savins 46). In the case of each market sector of the region, the state should examine the specific economic, institutional, and technical incentives and barriers that have encouraged and discouraged recycling.

Johnson & Johnson as a Model for Corporate Social Responsibility Research Paper

Johnson & Johnson as a Model for Corporate Social Responsibility - Research Paper Example Three responsibility-related dimensions are taken into account to calculate the combined effect on reputation of social programs, management practices, and employee relations. These include corporate citizenship, governance and workplace practices. An organization’s reputation is closely linked to the public perception of its Corporate Responsibility. Public perception includes dimensions such as trust, admiration and esteem. J&J makes certain claims in its annual reports and other official publications. However, an examination of their activities disproves the hypothesis that Johnson & Johnson is a model for Corporate Social Responsibility. 2. Company’s CREDO The company – J&J follows a definite CSR strategy outlined in OUR CREDO which was initiated 60 years ago by the founder. The Credo describes of the organization’s responsibility towards its customers, employers, communities and shareholders (Fact Book, 2007). Their first responsibility is to the doctors, nurses and patients, and all others who use their products and services. This includes product quality, product prices, prompt service, and a fair opportunity to the suppliers and distributors to make profits. Toward the employees their responsibility lies in providing job security, respecting individual dignity, and also helping employees fulfill their responsibilities towards their families (CSR Globe, n.d.). ... Their first responsibility is to the doctors, nurses and patients, and all others who use their products and services. This includes product quality, product prices, prompt service, and a fair opportunity to the suppliers and distributors to make profits. Toward the employees their responsibility lies in providing job security, respecting individual dignity, and also helping employees fulfill their responsibilities towards their families (CSR Globe, n.d.). They claim to be equal opportunity employers and hence provide development and advancement for all those qualified. Towards the communities they feel responsible in supporting charities and encouraging civic improvements including better health and education. Protection of environment and natural resources is a part of their responsibility towards the society and communities. They have a worldwide Tobacco-Free Work Place policy which has helped improve the health and work environment for the employees. For the employees they have o ther programs such as the Employee Assistance program and the Occupational Health Program which influences the employees’ ability to work safely and effectively keeping in mind the laws and regulations. The company asserts that if it has taken care of the first three - customers, employers, communities - the responsibility to the stakeholders is automatically assured. The Credo is the central document that ties many operating companies together. The positive effect of all its CSR strategy is that the company practices decentralization across J&J group of companies. Their focus areas are health, education, environment, art & culture, and disaster relief. They align their corporate

Michael Foucault Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Michael Foucault - Essay Example His research is often described as postmodernist and post-structuralism (Wikipedia Encyclopedia). Foucault focused on the dangers posed by psychoanalysis in the development of a disciplinary society (Milchman, Rosenberg 2003). One of the main reasons that Foucault emphasized on the subject of psychoanalysis is because it is a topic on which modern thought processes are based. The way we see our selves, our surroundings and the reality around us are all based on psychoanalysis. During the 1950's and 1960's many renowned scientists of the time designated homosexuality as pathological and ill. On the other hand, the adoption of heterosexual behavior (even for the homosexuals) was deemed as correct and righteous. Foucault was highly concerned about the cruelty imposed by various institutions on patients who were not deemed as proper in the face of the society in general. Hence, this justifies his reasons for providing sufficient warnings about the dangers of psychoanalysis. The Foucault methodology does not imply how a person should be but rather focuses on the reasons behind certain behavioral patterns of the patient. Until recently gays did not have any rights in the western society; and neither did children, the old, the mentally ill and the criminals. Foucault has laid the groundwork in his studies to provide these subjugated and oppressed members of the society with proper and due rights. It has been mentioned in a paper by Pryce (1999) that psychoanalysis may be used to obtain information of a "confessional nature" from a patient. This information may be about a topic that the patient is unable to discuss (such as sexual abuse). Three basic steps are used for the process of receiving such information. The direct citation from the paper is given as follows; "First, the medical consultation and examination includes asking the client questions concerning the particulars of sexual activities, orientation and risk behaviors and then physically examining the client. These are often illustrated using preprinted, small diagram of disembodied genitalia or rectum where the physician indicates the site of a lesion by inscribing an X'. Second, during specimen collections and treatments conducted by nurses there is a professional incitement to confess feelings and disclosure of psychosocial dimensions of sexuality. Third, the role of the health advisor and/or psychologist may include that of counselor utilizing some techniques and methods derived from formal counseling and psychology, whereby the client speaks the sin by naming it." Sexuality and Foucault's Work In accordance to Foucault's work sexuality can be viewed in two different ways. The eastern society (e.g. India) sees sexuality as an art form (e.g. Kamasutra), whereas the other type society thinks of sexuality as something to be shameful of and to hide from the public eye. However, in the case of Western society has resulted in the ideology of "confession." This includes the confessions about one's sexuality and sexual origins. Confession is an everyday part of the

Scientific Research in Education Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Scientific Research in Education - Assignment Example The exclusion of physics relies on the argument that physics cannot accommodate sociality, intentionality and the influences of history that encompass human phenomena, which includes education. The expectations of physics involve highly controlled experiments and collection of general laws, which are not sufficient in scientific research, in education. The argument of scientific research in education is that it is necessary in the temporary determination to certain questions especially those questions which involve empirical evidence. In spite of this position, scientific research in education does not provide the best method of answering questions and only answers questions not based on non-moral issues. Scientific research in education involves various research methods and designs and not limited to any one method since questions to be addressed require various methods according to the investigation circumstance. According to scientific research in education, quality and standards in research methods are dependent on the field and the question asked. In the decision, made at any time concerning the quality of education research be based on the research community on education and not legislators or politicians. Other noteworthy things the scientific research in education does not mention include casual explanations required by scientific research(Margaret, n.d). ... Scientific research has advantaged one question, which is systematic effect kind of question that asks what works and develops a singled kind of method on how to answer the question by using the randomized experiment method to address the question. The report discusses other research questions like the; what is happening question and the how is it happening question. Margaret (n.d) argues that the latter two types of questions are as valuable as the first question and are essentially necessary to respond to before the first question can be attempted. This notion bases its argument on the position that in order to assess correctly, what is happening it is necessary to know whatever is going on. It is essentially necessary to have appropriate and careful knowledge of what is happening in order to compare the effect of one set of policies or activities to another. There should be knowledge of how or why the happening of something happens as it does. According to Margaret (n.d), the corr elation between the effects and cause of two activities becomes irrelevant unless there is an explanation as to the link between the effect and cause. The validity of randomized trials and other kinds of hypothesis testing’s and investigations become vague unless there is a clear explanation to the link between the two. The weakness of scientific research in education is that its attention on the contribution of qualitative methods is too little. To achieve better descriptions to address properly the questions of what is happening and the necessary explanatory process of addressing why things happen the way they do. The position is that rather than describing the symptoms of a

England In the years 1067-1075 Essay Example for Free

England In the years 1067-1075 Essay a) How far do these sources support the view expressed in source one that, in the years 1067-1075, William had favoured conciliation in his attempts to establish peace in England? The view of William I favoring conciliation in his attempts to establish peace, to a certain extent, do agree with a number of the sources. This is only to a degree due to events that occurred between the years 1067 and 1075 that pushed William into more brutal and violent methods of subduing the English and securing his authority over England. Sources that do agree with William I using peaceful procedures to establish peace are sources three and four. Both sources to a great extent agree with the first source. Source three depicts how appeasement established authority. The source describes the naval and land levies, proving that William favoured conciliation. William had enough trust with the English to take them to war with him, and that they would not mutiny. This trust can be linked with source four; William felt strong enough to leave England in the hands of William fitz Osbern and go to Normandy. However, did the English really have a choice? With the erection of castles, the use of cavalry, and Norman landholders, the English may have been forced to fight for him; there is little detail of the events or others before or after. Source four also agrees, for throughout the duration of the documents Lanfranc negotiates peacefully with Roger warning him of the seriousness but giving him a second chance. Lanfranc assures him, of safe conduct, and to give the earl what help he can, saving his allegiance. The source is limited due it being correspondence over just the year 1075. Before and after this date other issues may have aroused, and the letters are not written by William I but by Lanfranc1 who was a very trusted friend to William. However, though acting on the Kings behalf, of appeasement, Lanfranc would have used his own ideas and thoughts on the case. Finally, as Hereford was the son of William fitz Osbern, he could have been treated differently for his links with William I; they were friends from their childhood2. Source two and five disagree with the statement in source one. Source two is from the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle3; as a consequence of the invasion, William is described to have devastated Yorkshire (Harrying of the North) 4 ravaged and laid waste to the shire. There is no implication of conciliation from William. Source two is inadequate due to it only covering one year, it does not take into account events outside of 1069. The Anglo authors of the chronicle could be biased towards the Normans, exaggerating the truth, leaving out appeasement by William I. Source five also disagrees with the statement recounting how William ruined Norwich, and blinded some of the traitors. The source is partial due to it covering only one date and the account of the situation is brief, and may exaggerate the Norman methods. The primary sources (source two, four, and five), overall, have an unbalanced view of William I and his tactics for establishing peace in England. The main drawback to most of the sources is the lack of facts during the years 1065 and 1075. This means that the revolts that occurred before 1069 are not mentioned. A final limitation, which I believe is the most key, is a list of rules that William I laid down when he first conquered England. The first rule was that above all things he (William) wishes one God to be revered throughout his whole realm, one faith in Christ to be kept ever inviolate, and peace and security to be preserved between English and Normans. Williams want, and favor towards peace is fully recognised in this statement. Foot Notes; 1. Lanfranc was, at the time, head of the new foreign bishops and abbots and also Archbishop of Canterbury. Lanfranc was unimpressed with the quality of the English clergy and during Williams reign supported his policy of promoting foreigners to high office in the Church. 2. William fitz Osbern, as a boy William I loved him above other members of his household. William I and William fitz Osbern were related, as fitz Osberns father was the grandson of Duke Richard of Normandys half-brother, Rodulf. Later on Roger Earl of Hereford had to forfeit his land and loose his title as Earl of Hereford. This though not brutal is not favoring conciliation by William I or Lanfranc (on Williams behalf). 3. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle was for the years before and during the conquest of England the main source of evidence and information. There exist three versions: C, D and E, derived from a common source but with some differences. The chronicle supplies a uniquely English account of political events and allows us to make comparisons with the rather obvious Norman propaganda. 4. The Harrying of the North was in response, by William I, to the revolts occurring in the North (Yorkshire) during the years 1069-70. William had marched north with seasoned troops, devastating the countryside as they went, and slaughtering all the adult males. What his troops conflicted on the people was so terrible that chroniclers remembered it over fifty years later. In the Domesday book, made in 1086, it simply records Yorkshire as waste due to the brutality of William the land was depopulated, villages left deserted, farms empty, and this was fifteen years later. b) To what extent did the Revolts in the years 1069-75 aid William I to assist his Royal Authority in England? The revolts between the years 1069-75, to a great extent, aided William I to assert his royal authority across England. They provided William with the chance and excuse to use and show his military power. William was able to remove key Anglo-Saxon lords who posed a threat to him; build castles to maintain his control of the country; and it allowed him to firmly set, in the minds of the Saxons, that the Normans werent just invaders, like the Vikings, but conquerors of England. However, the revolts were not the only reason for Williams successful affirmation of royal authority on the country. William adopted methods of conciliation. He kept the Anglo-Saxon traditions such as sheriffs, shires, coronation rights and writs and added Norman culture and society on top to create an Anglo-Norman England. Before the revolts William was in a very exposed position. He had five thousand men to the two million Saxons, and he had no control of the North, West or East of England. Due to this vulnerability William was systematically peaceful in dealing with the Anglo-Saxons; using conciliation rather than consolidation. The revolts were essential to the change in Williams attitude towards the situation. He began to use brutal, ruthless methods to obtain his authority. The importance of the revolts depended on who was involved and the consequences of the revolt. Though there were minor revolts, when comparing them to revolts such as the Northern revolt (1069-70), they are taken into account to supply us, the historian, with a realistic overview of how dire Williams need was to obtain and retain royal authority. Rebellions began to inflame the country, in 1067 the Welsh border, lead by Eric the Wild, revolted in Herefordshire. Subsequently the south-west revolted in 1068, with the city of Exeter refusing to accept William as their King, and Harold Godwinsons sons attempted a counter invasion in the summer of 1068. Between the years 1069 and 1070 the North revolted. Rebels in the North burned to death a Norman Earl, Robert of Commines, in Durham. A Viking army of 240 ships, led by the sons of Swegn Estrithsson, landed at Humber and marched on York. They gained support from the local Saxons, and they seized York. Their success produced a domino affect sparking revolts in Dorset, Cheshire, Staffordshire and Somerset. William faced the possibility of a Scandinavian Kingdom in the north of England, or a separate Kingdom for Edgar, the last prince of the Royal House of Wessex. William reacted to these revolts with characteristic vigour, skill and utter brutality. He became the barbarous murderer of many thousands, both young and old, of that fine race of people1. The Welsh failed to take control of the border, and retired to Wales with much booty. Exeter, in the south-west revolt of 1068, was laid under siege for 18 days, by Williams troops, by which time they accepted William as their King. Harolds sons were repelled by Williams forces in the summer of 1068. William to counter-act this made a series of lighting raids through Warwick, Nottingham, York, Lincoln, Huntingdon and Cambridge to show his presence as the new King. In reaction to the revolts in the North, William marched North with troops from York and Nottingham, devastating the countryside, slaughtering all adult males and pillaging as he went, killing animals and burning crops. This was called the Harrying of the North and the destruction of the land was so terrible that when mentioned in the Domesday Book, 20 years later, it was classed as a waste land. From Yorkshire William pushed his men across the Tees in the winter and took Chester, and Stafford, and was back in Winchester before Easter 1070. Due to the revolts and the resulting victories for William, who had either killed or utterly suppressed the resistance, he had to enforce his power, and show that the Normans were the new rulers and would not leave. William accomplished this by first building motte-and-bailey castles across England. William began to erect them right at the start of his campaign, even before the battle of Hastings, and they were virtually unheard of in England. William built hundreds across England, to show the Normans strength and power over the population. This geopolitical process meant that they exerted control over the surrounding countryside. The Normans would demolish houses in the centre of towns to erect a castle. This happened in towns such as Cambridge, Lincoln and Dorchester2. These castles were, and still are, looming features over the landscape3. They were built in the centre of towns for economic reasons; the material or foundations of earlier fortifications (Roman/Saxon) were there already, and also it was cheaper to build on existing forts rather than building on top of a hill, having to transport supplies and food up it. Another affect of castles was their psychological affect on the Saxon population. Castles were a conspicuous emblem of Royal authority4, and were clearly statements of power to the indigenous people5. By the end of the revolts, 1075, William felt secure enough with his authority over England that he went back to Normandy and left his trusted advisor and Archbishop of Canterbury, Lanfranc in charge of the kingdom. Another factor which was opened up due to the revolts, and the success for William I, was the replacement of all the Anglo-Saxon earls. The earls were either dead from the revolts or just forced off their land. William strategically placed relatives or close friends to tenet the earldoms. For example Odo of Bayeaux, was earl of Kent and half-brother to William I. Also the new earl of Hereford, William fitz Osbern, was Williams cousin. This formed a tight, trustful network of family and friends which William could rely on. Another advantage to William of the revolts was it allowed him to fully assert royal authority on Anglo-Saxon church. William had to as, 30% of land in England was permanently owned by the church, bishops and abbots were literate, powerful men who advised the old Kings of Saxon England. If William could control the church he would be successful in his total control of England. William achieved this by removing 99% of all Saxon bishops, abbots and clergy, with Norman-French ones by 1087. William built new stone cathedrals, as a sign of domination, on top of old wooden Saxon churches. This had the same affect as the castles, showing the Norman supremacy over the Saxons. In 1070 the most powerful churchman in England, Stigand Archbishop of Canterbury, was deposed and replaced by Lanfranc, an Italian monk who was Williams greatest advisor. Three other important Saxon bishops were also removed, and also many abbots. Finally in 1072 Lanfranc gained superiority over the Archbishop of York, thus making Canterbury the chief church post in England. As Lanfranc had control over the North, this aided William with his control. In the 11th century, people were very suspicious and believed solely in the existence of God. These men of God, the bishops and abbots were trusted by the Saxon people no matter what race they were, even Norman, because of the risk it could cause them in the afterlife if they offended them. The extent of royal authority being asserted on England does not solely come from the revolts but also from Williams conciliation of the country, mainly before the revolts. Although the landscape of England had changed with the formation of castles, looming over the country and the mounted cavalry, trotting through the towns and villages, William I always governed through legal and rightful inheritance from Edward the Confessor with the use of Anglo-Saxon tools of government and traditions of kingship. When William came to the throne, December 25th 1066, he was crowned in the traditional Anglo-Saxon manner, like Edward the Confessor before. This showed his belief in tradition and proved his rightful claim to the throne. By using the ancient traditions of Anglo-Saxon kingship ceremonies alongside the unique circumstances that brought him the crown, William and his successors were able to appeal both to English customs and to the Norman sense of righteous conquest. William in the lead up to the revolts kept the country as it was, making no major changes and if any were made they would consist of a mixture of Anglo-Saxon and Norman customs. The main household after 1066 was not fundamentally changed. The only big difference in the household was that after 1066, and especially around 1087 (William Is death) the nobles were increasingly Norman. At first William kept some Anglo-Saxons in his household, one example was Regenbald, and he was the chancellor and was in command of the Royal seal under Edward the Confessor and William I. This shows Williams desire for continuity within the government, and only adding extras on top mixing the two cultures of the Normans and the Anglo-Saxons. The earldoms at the beginning of Williams reign did not change. They remained as the four large Earldoms of East Anglia, Mercia, Wessex and Northumbria. However, around the time of the rebellions against William I (1070s), William I granted the land to new nobles and tenants. As a result he and his two half-brothers owned 50% of England, the Church remained with around 30%, and roughly 12 barons (great lords) shared the remaining 20%. These 12 barons, basically like his half-brothers, were often related through hereditary or marriage to William. Kingship was very much affected by the character of the King on the throne at the time. So this was destined to change with the accession of William I. William I had to be physically strong, spending most of his time on the move (itinerant kingship). Also mentally strong to dominate the churchmen and the barons who all had their own ambitions and interests. With this change in kingship, William introduced a fairly new system of crown-wearing sessions. William I wore his crown and regalia where the people could see him. Three major times for this crown-wearing was Easter at Winchester, Christmas at Gloucester, and on Whitsun in Westminster. This new method and change in kingship could have been a sign of William Is security as King. However, William I could of used crown-wearing sessions for another reason, to state his claim and right to the throne, indefinitely, upon landholders, and the barons. This would agree with his use of the coinage system set up in England before 1066. William on his coins and seals had a picture of him sitting on the throne with all his regalia, on one side, and on the other him on a horse with a sword; William is declaring his claim to the throne, by right, and if that is not enough by force and bloodshed. William changed the iconography of kingship to add strength to his kingship. The chancery of pre-1066 was only slightly revolutionised. After 1066 the clerks, who wrote up the laws and grants began to progressively, under William, write the laws in Latin. Latin was the language of authority, the Norman nobles and the officials wrote in Latin. This language of power was fully founded around 1070. The use of clerks was not new to England. William I only adapted them to his cultural needs and desires. Also Latin was not known throughout the greater population. This causes supremacy over the plebs on the land, and dominates their lives. Sheriffs were the Kings official in a shire. These officials had been around before William. William I did not have sheriffs back in Normandy, and found them to be very useful. After the rebellions around the 1070s, sheriffs were increasingly Norman (as were the earls and bishops). The powers of the sheriffs increased hugely, and they were often in charge of royal castles (castellans) as well. Most Norman sheriffs were aristocrats who had much more wealth and power than the previous Anglo-Saxon sheriffs. A final instrument used by William I to completely assert his authority on the country was the production of the Domesday Book6. This book allowed the King to find out who had what and who owed what, twenty years after his seizure of the kingdom. The Domesday Book also shows us how sophisticated the Anglo-Saxon government was before the Normans. Without the shires, hundreds and sheriffs this type of census would have been near impossible to make. The Domesday Book is a record of a conquered kingdom, but it is a testament to the survival of the Anglo-Saxon government in many aspects. William I was aided by the revolts (1069-75) to a great extent. The revolts changed the King from conciliation to consolidation. However, the revolts, the castle building, the revolutionary change of the earldoms and the church, came, all, after the revolts. A new set of values had been introduced into England; these were based upon loyalty and military service. The government of the new king was based upon the traditional procedures and customs of Edward the Confessor but was enforced with a savage energy inspired by, mainly, the revolts between the years 1069-75. Foot Notes; 1. William the Conquerors deathbed confession, from Orderic Vitalis The Ecclesiastical History written 1123-41. 2. Cambridge (27 houses were demolished), Gloucester (16 houses demolished), Lincoln (166 houses demolished), and in Dorchester (an area of 150,000 square metres was taken up). 3. Article in History Today, Volume 53, Issue 4. 4. Article in History Today, Volume 53, Issue 4. 5. Article in History Today, Volume 53, Issue 4. 6. The Domesday Book was written in 1086, and was so-called due to its verdicts being just as unanswerable as the Book of the Day of Judgment. It was written in Latin, on parchment and includes 13,400 place names on 888 pages. No other country in the world produced such a detailed historical record at such an early date.

High School and Students Essay Example for Free

High School and Students Essay Introduction The continuous deterioration of the quality of education in the Philippines has prompted the DepEd to push for the implementation of the K to 12 programs, which entails the institutionalization of kindergarten and the addition of two more years of high school in the basic education cycle. The proposal has spurred a heated debate on whether it could lead to improvements or just exacerbate thn e present state of education in the country. The Enhanced K+12 Basic Education Program in the Philippines has been officially started. It has been initiated by the Aquino administration where students will have to undergo a new system of education. This program will require all incoming students to enroll into two more years of basic education. Thus, the K+12 System will basically include the Universal kindergarten, 6 years of elementary, 4 years of junior high school with an additional 2 years for senior high school. Moreover, the program aims to uplift the quality of education in the Philippines in order for graduates to be easily employed. The program also aims to meet the standards required for professionals who would want to work abroad. Most importantly, the system aims to fully enhance and develop the students in order for them to be well-prepared especially in emotional and cognitive aspects. Through this, graduates will be able to face the pressures of their future workplace. However, not all are in favor of the K+12 Education. There are students complaining of the additional years and there are parents who are not in favor of the additional expenses. But indeed, it is an undeniable fact that additional years in the education system will really require more budgets not just from the government but from the parents as well. Aside from this, students will need additional classrooms, school supplies and facilities. The program would need more qualified teachers as well. The researchers believe that the K+12 Education in the Philippines would uplift the quality of lifestyle of the Filipino people. But, this could not be done without being prepared. And since the program has already been implemented, what is  more important now is for students to do their best and study despite of the lack of facilities. The Philippine educational system pursues the achievement of excellent undergraduates in the elementary and secondary level. Implementation of UbD is one of the proposals that undertook in the country recently. At present, the Department of Education pronounces the addition of two more years in the basic education of students, which according to them will benefit not only the Filipino youth but all the Filipinos in the Philippines. This proposal is part of P-noys Educational Reform Program. The administration asserts that with the implementation of such program, the problem of unemployment in the country will be resolved. In as much as employment in the Philippines is concerned, the K12 education also responds to the fact that most countries in the world already have the same plan in their educational institutions. With this, the standards of these countries go a notch higher than what the country has, thus, creating an expansion in the global competency. What can be really said about this plan? While the reaction of the public is divided, where some are in favor and some are not, here are several issues that point out to the aggression of opposing groups especially the parents to this program. One of the main problems in the Philippines which the government needs to resolve is the lack of school and classrooms in the different parts of the country. It is important that students stay in a place that is conducive for study while they are away from home. In addition, with teachers go abroad to teach, or do another job, there is already a shortage of educators in schools that mold the minds of learners. And this deficiency has become a problem for the country in the past several years. Finally, there is a need for students to utilize the appropriate instructional materials and school equipment for them to learn and gain the necessary knowledge in school. This lack of accessibility in books and other school supplies clearly manifest the scarcity in the public schools in the country. There is nothing wrong in aiming the other fraction of a horizon, and that is what the government attempts to accomplish. It is in fact an indication that to aspire for something higher, one must carry out certain actions to achieve the goal. However, the administration also ought to realize and clearly understand what the educational system in the Philippines needs to develop primarily. The mentioned issues above are only a few elements that entailed to be resolved. At some point, the Philippines cannot go ahead unless the concerns are faced and the difficulties are completely solved. There are a lot to be done to improve the competency of the youth. The government does not need to gaze from afar. ? Conceptual Framework The framework of this as can be viewed below was anchored on the dependent variable, student’s perception on the K+12 policy as the independent variable. Research Paradigm Fig. 1 Dependent Variable Independent Variable Statement of the Problem Major Problem: 1. What is the perception of the STMA high school students on K12? Minor Problems: 1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of K12? 2. Does the student agree on the K12 policy? ? Hypothesis This study assumed the following: 1. That students have different definition about the K12 policy. 2. That students believe that K12 is a waste of time. 3. Most students will not finish high school. Scope and Delimitations The target respondents of the study are the high school students of the current academic year (2011-2012) randomly selected across all year level. It is limits itself on the perceptions of the students on the said topic and their preconceived notion. Significance of the Study. This study is about the perception on K12 policy among parents and high school students of St. Thomas More Academy academic year 2011-2012. The persons that would benefit from the study are the following: Students A better understanding on K12 policy would benefit the students on increasing their knowledge. Teachers The finding of this study may likewise motivate and challenge them to guide their students on matters regarding K12 policy related issues considering the philosophy of loco parentis or the second parents; teachers will be able to explain things. Parents will be enlightened on how best to explain to their children matters pertaining to K12 policy. ? Definition of terms The following special terms has been sued to suit this study: Deteriorate To make or become worse in character, quality, etc. Exacerbate To increase the severity, bitterness, or violence of; aggravate. PerceptionPoint of view; Opinion Promptto obey ENDNOTES Websites: www. wikipedia. com www. wiki-answers. com http://wiki. answers. com/Q/What_are_the_advantages_in_having_k_plus_12? CHAPTER II REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE ? CHAPTER II REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE. In preparing this study the researchers seriously looked for different books, newspapers articles and other media as point of reference. There are numerous sources that the researchers found especially on the internet related to these. The researchers carefully examined the following related literature; If the K-12 Education Plan becomes successful, then the Philippine education system can become more competitive among other countries around the world. Though there are still some problems that the government needs to solve before they can successfully implement the plan. The proposed program is good but it still wont work if the needed elements to make it work aren’t present. Such element includes the number of public school classrooms plus the adequate supply of classroom chairs, books, etc. If the government could allot a bigger budget to educational needs, then we could be one-step ahead towards the success of the K-12 program. Furthermore, parents (especially those who belong in the poor sector) should be properly informed and motivated of the advantages of the K-12 Education Plan. This is very important since parents play a major role in providing the childs school allowances, supplies, and fees for other school projects and activities. Add to that the support of parents towards their children in terms of guidance and teaching. The DepEd seems all set to add two more years to the country’s 10 year basic education curriculum. This is a very tough issue to crack. We think it is a clash between reality and the ideal. A question unanswered – is this for the common good? The truth is there are already many problems at the current 10-year curriculum and it has nothing to do with number of years. To enumerate a few – there are not enough qualified teachers to teach all the students; that is made worst with just too many students; there are not enough classrooms and schools to comfortably fit all the students (not to mention not enough bathrooms and water supply); there are not enough books; add the problem of poor quality books, on top of that there are not enough facilities and finally very high dropout rates. The latter, high dropout rates are being caused by something out of the education system but affects large part of the population – poverty. There are just so many poor families and they are so poor that many of them cannot afford to pay for the already meager amount needed for the education of their children. Grade school and high school are free in public schools with parents needing to just spend on uniforms, fare and some expenses. The tuition which normally accounts for a very large share of the total expenses are free and yet most poor families can still not afford of what is left for them to spend. It is not that the expenses are high, it’s just their income is very, very low. It is this inability to afford the other expenses that has caused a very high dropout rate among students. This plan of the DepEd to add two more years will of course not solve any of the above problems. In fact, it will only extend all those problems by two more years. A longer basic education will also mean even higher dropout rates. Then there is the problem of additional expenses for the government. As of now, with the 10 year curriculum, there is already desperate lack of classrooms and schools. The public schools cannot turn the student’s away when they show up to enroll. To cope many public schools have crammed as many students as they can inside the classroom with classrooms crammed with chairs from wall to wall. Not enough, the schools conduct classes in at least shifts, in some instances classes held very early in the morning till late in the evening. With two additional years, the schools will definitely need to construct new buildings and classrooms or God forbid conduct classes 24/7. The above is the reality part. On the government side, in the discussion paper it disseminated during its press conference last Oct. 5, the Department of Education (DepEd) has given at least nine reasons for the K+12 project: 1. â€Å"Enhancing the quality of basic education in the Philippines is urgent and critical. † 2. â€Å"The poor quality of basic education is reflected in the low achievement scores of Filipino students. One reason is that students do not get adequate instructional time or time on task. † 3. International test results consistently show Filipino students lagging way behind practically everybody else in the world. In the 2008 mathematics exam, for example, we came in dead last. 4. â€Å"The congested curriculum partly explains the present state of education. † Twelve years of content are crammed into ten years. 5. â€Å"This quality of education is reflected in the inadequate preparation of high school graduates for the world of work or entrepreneurship or higher education. † If ten years were adequate, how come employers do not hire fresh high school graduates? How come most high school graduates flunk the UPCAT? 6. â€Å"Most graduates are too young to enter the labor force. † Since most children start Grade 1 when they are 6 years old, they do not reach the legal employable age of 18 when they graduate from high school today. 7. â€Å"The current system also reinforces the misperception that basic education is just a preparatory step for higher education. † Why prioritize the minority of high school graduates that go to college? 8. â€Å"The short duration of the basic education program also puts the millions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), especially the professionals, and those who intend to study abroad, at a disadvantage. Our graduates are not automatically recognized as professionals abroad. † The best examples are our engineering graduates, who are condemned to international jobs not befitting their professional status due to our not having a 12-year basic education cycle. 9. â€Å"The short basic education program affects the human development of the Filipino children. † If we believe that 17-year-old high school graduates are emotionally, psychologically, and intellectually mature, why do we require them to get parental consent before they get married? On the other hand, those opposing the plan put forward the following arguments: 1. Parents have to shell out more money (for transportation and food) for the education of their children. 2. The government does not have the money to pay for two more years of free education, since it does not even have the money to fully support today’s ten years. DepEd must first solve the lack of classrooms, furniture and equipment, qualified teachers, and error-free textbooks. 3. We can do in ten years what everyone else in the world takes 12 years to do. Why do we have to follow what the rest of the world is doing? We are better than all of them. Filipinos right now are accepted in prestigious graduate schools in the world, even with only ten years of basic education. 4. As far as the curriculum is concerned, DepEd should fix the current subjects instead of adding new ones. The problem is the content, not the length, of basic education. As an editorial put it, we need to have better education, not more education. 5. A high school diploma will not get anybody anywhere, because business firms will not hire fresh high school graduates. 6. Every family dreams of having a child graduate from college. 7. While students are stuck in Grades 11 and 12, colleges and universities will have no freshmen for two years. This will spell financial disaster for many private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). 8. The drop-out rate will increase because of the two extra years. ? . CHAPTER III METHODOLOGY ? Chapter III Methodology This chapter deals with the methodology of the studies. This is presented on the following sections: (a) Research design (b) Sampling Technique (c) Instrumentation (d) Data-gathering procedure and (e) Statistical treatment of data. Research Method The descriptive survey method was man used in this research. The descriptive method is concerned with the analysis of the relationship between non-manipulated variable employing the use of the development of generalization. This means that variable have already occurred and are just selected and observed Fraenkel and Wallen (1998) also define the descriptive research as involving collection of data in order to test hypothesis and answer questions concerning the current status of the subject of the study. Since the study deals with perceptions of parents and high school students on K12 policy of the Philippine government academic year 2011-2012, the descriptive survey method was deemed appropriate to be used. [[[[ Sampling Technique The population of the study involved a total number if 496 respondents randomly selected representing at least more than half of the school’s population irrespective of the age, year, selection and gender. Research Instrument The researchers devised a self-made questionnaire designed to obtain information related on the objective of the study. It consisted of the following parts: Part I – This part of the questionnaire dealt with personal information regarding the respondents (name and section). Part II – This part of the questionnaire was intended to ask the respondent’s definition about K+12. Part III – This part of the questionnaire was intended to ask the respondent’s idea about the advantages and disadvantages of K12. Part IV- This part of the questionnaire was intended to ask the respondent’s opinion about the benefits of K+12. Data Gathering Procedures. The following data gathering procedures guided the researchers Phase 1 – a copy of the questionnaire was presented to the thesis adviser. The researchers asked for his comments and suggestions; Phase 2 – the researchers presented the edited questionnaire and asked for further assistance from parents. It was then presented for approval to the school principal who gave valuable insight and ideas on how best the data can be gathered. Phase 3 – the researchers conducted data gathering procedures during first week of February. The figure below is the flowchart of the Data Gathering Procedures done by the researchers. Fig. 2 Statistical Treatment of Data For analyzing the data, the researchers will be use of the following statistical tools: Percentage This refers to the number of parts per one hundred. It is a statistical tool used to express how large one quantity is, relative to another quantity. To get the total percentage of specific number and total number respondents in the questionnaire the formula is: % = F/N * 100 Where N=370 Unless otherwise stated the above formula will be used except for multiresponse questions or for gender based questions. ? Presentation and Data Analysis Table 1 1. How do you define K12? This table is a multi-response item which showed that majority of respondents surveyed that they defined K12 as an added two years in high school with 77. 57% followed by it is an academic program with 20. 54% and a government policy with 15. 41%. ? Table 2 2. What are the advantages of it? The preceding multiresponse table2 showed that majority of respondents surveyed said that the advantage of K12 policy is to gain more knowledge with 62. 97% followed by more chances to have work with 29. 19% and free OJT with 18. 65%. ? Table 3 3. What are the disadvantages of it? Multiresponse table 3 showed that more money to spend was the top disadvantage of K12 with 79. 19% followed by waste of time with 16. 22% and lack of leisure with 15. 41% as the final point of view. ? Table 4 4. Do you agree on K12 policy? More than half of the respondents said that they disagreed on the K12 policy with 67. 57% and the remaining 32. 43% of the respondents agreed. ? Table 5 5. Do you think you will be well educated if you graduated under the K12 system? Table 5 showed that the majority of the respondents agreed that they will be well educated if they graduated under the K12 policy with 70. 27% and the other respondents left disagreed with 29. 73%. ? Table 6 6. In K12 system, do you think it will be helpful to all students? The greater part of the respondents believed that K12 policy will be helpful to the students. ? CHAPTER IV SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ? CHAPTER IV Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations This chapter presents the summary of findings, conclusions and recommendations. Summary of Findings. This first table is a multiresponse item which showed that majority of respondents surveyed that they defined K12 as an added two years in high school with 77. 57% followed by it is an academic program with 20. 54% and a government policy with 15. 41%. The second table is also a multiresponse item which showed that majority of respondents surveyed said that the advantage of K12 policy is to gain more knowledge with 62. 97% followed by more chances to have work with 29. 19% and free OJT with 18. 65%. Multiresponse table 3 showed that more money to spend was the top disadvantage of K12 with 79. 19% followed by waste of time with 16. 22% and lack of leisure with 15. 41% as the final point of view. Table 4 illustrates that more than half of the respondents said that they disagreed on the K12 policy with 67. 57% and the remaining 32. 43% of the respondents agreed. With this, it showed that the most of the students doesn’t like to implement the K+12 policy due to their concern for their time and to their parent’s money.. Table 5 proved that the majority of the respondents agreed that they will be well educated if they graduated under the K12 policy with 70. 27% and the other respondents left disagreed with 29. 73%. In table 6, it shows that the greater part of the respondents believed that K12 policy will be helpful to the students. Conclusions It has proved that the respondents showed their different views or perceptions on the K-12 system of education in the Philippine government. The following conclusions have been drawn: 1. That students were all informed and yet educated what the K-12 system is about. 2. That disadvantages were showed by the majority of the students through the data gathered whereas it resulted the students not to agree on the said system. 3. That students will be well educated after finishing the K-12 system in their education. 4. And on the other side it will be a great help to the students to learn more and adequate information that will mold them into a better person. ? Recommendation It is with fervent wish of the researchers that the following recommendations be considered by the concerned; Students 1. Responsible is the key to the effectiveness of this program. 2. Should be responsible enough to fulfill the given task of their teachers. Teachers 1. Teachers should encourage their students to open up if they have their problems on their subjects. 2. Since teachers are willing to help the students be more cooperative and open-minded to develop their skills and studies. Schools 1. Schools should provide clean and green surroundings. 3. Monitor the students in having gangs/fraternities. 4. They should provide and recuperate their facilities. Parents 1. Parents should help their children in their problems. 2. Parents should encourage their children to keep not neglect their studies. ? St. Thomas More Academy Incorporated Molino III, Bacoor, Cavite Survey questionnaire Title: Perception of STMA High School Students on the K12 policy of the Philippine Government Name: Year and Section: 1. How do you define K12? a. added two years in high school b. academic program c. government policy 2. What are the advantages of it? a. free OJT b. more chances to have work c. gain more knowledge 3. What are the disadvantages of it? a. waste of time b. more money to spend c. lack of leisure 4. Do you agree on K12? a. no b. yes 5. Do you think you will be well educated if you graduated under the K12 system? a. yes b. no 6. In K12 system, do you think it will be helpful to all students? a. yes b. no. Title: Perception of STMA High School Students on the K12 policy of the Philippine Government Name: Year and Section: 1. How do you define K12? a. added two years in high school b. academic program c. government policy 2. What are the advantages of it? a. free OJT b. more chances to have work c. gain more knowledge 3. What are the disadvantages of it? a. waste of tim b. more money to spend c. lack of leisure 4. Do you agree on K12? a. no b. yes 5. Do you think you will be well educated if you graduated under the K12 system? a. yes b. no 6. In K12 system, do you think it will be helpful to all students? a. yes b. no.

Commercial Risk in International Business

Commercial Risk in International Business What is International business ? International business is a term used to collectively describe all commercial transactions (private and governmental, sales, investments, logistics, and transportation) that take place between two or more nations. Usually, private companies undertake such transactions for profit; governments undertake them for profit and for political reasons. A multinational enterprise (MNE) is a company that has a worldwide approach to markets and production or one with operations in more than a country. An MNE is often called multinational corporation (MNC) or transnational company (TCN). Well known MNCs include fast food companies such as McDonalds and Yum Brands, vehicle manufacturers such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company and Toyota, consumer electronics companies like Samsung, LG and Sony, and energy companies such as ExxonMobil, Shell and BP. Most of the largest corporations operate in multiple national markets. Areas of study within this topic include differences in legal systems, political systems, economic policy, language, accounting standards, labor standards, living standards, environmental standards, local culture, corporate culture, foreign exchange market, tariffs, import and export regulations, trade agreements, climate, education and many more topics. Each of these factors requires significant changes in how individual business units operate from one country to the next. The conduct of international operations depends on companies objectives and the means with which they carry them out. The operations affect and are affected by the physical and societal factors and the competitive environment. Objectives of International Business: sales expansion, resource acquisition, risk minimization. What are Risk In International Business ? Companies doing business across international borders face many of the same risks as would normally be evident in strictly domestic transactions. For example, * Buyer insolvency (purchaser cannot pay); * Non-acceptance (buyer rejects goods as different from the agreed upon specifications); * Credit risk (allowing the buyer to take possession of goods prior to payment); * Regulatory risk (e.g., a change in rules that prevents the transaction); * Intervention (governmental action to prevent a transaction being completed); * Political risk (change in leadership interfering with transactions or prices); and * War and Acts of God. * The risks that exist in international trade can be divided into two major groups: Economic risks . Risk of insolvency of the buyer, . Risk of protracted default the failure of the buyer to pay the amount due within six months after the due date . Risk of non acceptance . Surrendering economic sovereignty * Political risks . Risk of cancellation or non renewal of export or import licences . War risks . Risk of expropriation or confiscation of the importers company . Risk of the imposition of an import ban after the shipment of the goods . Transfer risk imposition of exchange controls by the importers country or foreign currency shortages . Surrendering political sovereignty  · Exchange rates * Price for which the currency of a country can be exchanged for another countrys currency. Factors that influence exchange rate include (1) interest rates, (2) inflation rate, (3) trade balance, (4) political stability, (5) internal harmony, (6) high degree of transparency in the conduct of leaders and administrators, (7) general state of economy, and (8) quality of governance. Risks in international trade can be divided under several types, such as: Economic risks: * Risk of concession in economic control * Risk of insolvency of the buyer * Risk of non-acceptance * Risk of protracted default i.e. the failure of the buyer to pay off the due amount after six months of the due date * Risk of Exchange rate * Political risks: * Risk of non- renewal of import and exports licenses * Risks due to war * Risk of the imposition of an import ban after the delivery of the goods * Surrendering of political sovereignty Buyer Country risks * Changes in the policies of the government * Exchange control regulations * Lack of foreign currency * Trade embargoes Commercial risk: * A banks lack of ability to honor its responsibilities * A buyers failure pertaining to payment due to financial limitations * A sellers inability to provide the required quantity or quality of goods Others Risks : * Cultural differences e.g., some cultures consider the payment of an incentive to help trading is absolutely lawful * Lack of knowledge of overseas markets * Language barriers * Inclination to corrupt business associates * Legal protection for breach of contract or non-payment is low * Effects of unpredictable business environment and fluctuating exchange rates * Sovereign risk the ability of the government of a country to pay off its debts * Natural risk due to the various kinds natural catastrophes, which cannot be controlled There are many other risks which are the following. (1) Strategic Risk (2) Operational Risk (3) Political Risk (4) Country Risk (5) Technological Risk (6) Environmental Risk (7) Economic Risk (8) Financial Risk (9) Terrorism Risk Strategic Risk: The ability of a firm to make a strategic decision in order to respond to the forces that are a source of risk. These forces also impact the competiveness of a firm. Porter defines them as: threat of new entrants in the industry, threat of substitute goods and services, intensity of competition within the industry, bargaining power of suppliers, and bargaining power of consumers. Operational Risk: This is caused by the assets and financial capital that aid in the day-to-day business operations. The breakdown of machineries, supply and demand of the resources and products, shortfall of the goods and services, lack of perfect logistic and inventory will lead to inefficiency of production. By controlling costs, unnecessary waste will be reduced, and the process improvement may enhance the lead-time, reduce variance and contribute to efficiency in globalization. Political Risk: The political actions and instability may make it difficult for companies to operate efficiently in these countries due to negative publicity and impact created by individuals in the top government. A firm cannot effectively operate to its full capacity in order to maximize profit in such an unstable countrys political turbulence. A new and hostile government may replace the friendly one, and hence expropriate foreign assets. Country Risk: The culture or the instability of a country may create risks that may make it difficult for multinational companies to operate safely, effectively, and efficiently. Some of the country risks come from the governments policies, economic conditions, security factors, and political conditions. Solving one of these problems without all of the problems (aggregate) together will not be enough in mitigating the country risk. Technological Risk: Lack of security in electronic transactions, the cost of developing new technology, and the fact that these new technology may fail, and when all of these are coupled with the outdated existing technology, the result may create a dangerous effect in doing business in the international arena. Environmental Risk: Air, water, and environmental pollution may affect the health of the citizens, and lead to public outcry of the citizens. These problems may also lead to damaging the reputation of the companies that do business in that area. Economic Risk: This comes from the inability of a country to meet its financial obligations. The changing of foreign-investment or/and domestic fiscal or monetary policies. The effect of exchange-rate and interest rate make it difficult to conduct international business. Financial Risk: This area is affected by the currency exchange rate, government flexibility in allowing the firms to repatriate profits or funds outside the country. The devaluation and inflation will also impact the firms ability to operate at an efficient capacity and still be stable. Most countries make it difficult for foreign firms to repatriate funds thus forcing these firms to invest its funds at a less optimal level. Sometimes, firms assets are confiscated and that contributes to financial losses. Terrorism Risk: These are attacks that may stem from lack of hope; confidence; differences in culture and religious philosophy, and/or merely hate of companies by citizens of host countries. It leads to potential hostile attitudes, sabotage of foreign companies and/or kidnapping of the employers and employees. Such frustrating situations make it difficult to operate in these countries. CASES * October 2006 International Risk North Korea Future Implications International Risk has drawn up a report which explores the strategic thinking of the North Korean regime and their logic for conducting nuclear tests. The report outlines the likely future implications for Asia. * September 2005 International Risk Assessment: INDIA BUSINESS RISK OPPORTUNITIES India continues to establish itself as an emerging global force attracting increasing foreign direct investment. In response to the ever changing business climate, companies need to develop strategies to increase competitiveness and improve profitability. When expanding into new and developing markets, there are various elements that help make the endeavour successful as well as risks which can lead to severe disappointment. With India being touted as the new market and global player, it is critical that companies understand and appreciate both the opportunities and challenges faced by foreign investors. In short, provided companies take appropriate action to, India works. It represents a huge opportunity for the investor who has the appetite for detail, is patient and looks to the long term. International Risk, the premier international risk mitigation and investigation company, provides a strategic assessment on the risks and opportunities for foreign investors entering this exciting market. * May 2005 International Risk Macau Strategic Risk Assessment In the five years since its return to Chinese sovereignty, the former Portuguese colony of Macau has witnessed unprecedented economic growth, driven by huge investment inflows into its gaming and tourist industries and an explosion in visitor arrivals, particularly from the mainland. Whilst there are positive indications as to Macau continuing its growth as a regional gaming centre, much like its new role model Las Vegas, there are nevertheless uncertainties and risks arising from its chequered past as much as from its future under Beijings current benevolent oversight. Understanding these factors is crucial if foreign investors are to mitigate this risk. International Risk, the premier international risk mitigation and investigation company has developed a strategic review of the challenges facing Macau, the opportunities it presents investors, and the risks they could encounter. International Risk has considerable experience in discreetly assisting foreign investors who seek to enter this colorful, yet exciting environment. * April 2005 International Risk Report on China-Japan  § Political and strategic frictions between China and Japan have been growing over the past few years because of deep-seated historical distrust and an accelerating rivalry for regional power and influence between the two countries. But these tensions were previously contained and offset by close economic ties and the sharing of many issues of mutual interest, such as concerns over the rise of a nuclear North Korea.  § This calm in China-Japan relations has been damaged by a perfect storm of controversies that has unleashed pent-up passions among Chinese city-dwellers across the country. The history text-book issue over Japans war-time activity in China, Japans bid for a permanent UN Security Council seat and Tokyos decision to allocate drilling rights in disputed territorial waters are all highly charged emotional issues that strike at the very heart of Chinese popular nationalism.  § While these controversies have propelled Chinese onto the streets in their thousands, the Chinese leaderships decision to allow these anti-Japanese protests to take place is driven by deeper structural issues that suggest China-Japan ties are likely to remain volatile in the longer term. Managing the Risks of International Trade This guide provides information that will help you to put procedures in place to minimise the risks involved in international trade. You should read it if you are responsible for planning and delivering the export strategy in your company. You should make sure that the information in this briefing is read by your sales and marketing force, your finance management team, your credit manager and the sales ledger controller. What types of risks will I have to manage? Customer Risk You will need an assessment of the credit worthiness of your customer. This should include checking the following: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The identity of your customer. Do they exist as a legally established business in the country of import? Are you dealing with someone who has the authority to bind your customer; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The usual period of credit offered in your customers country; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The credit limit you are prepared to offer your customer; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The trading history of your customer. Are they a prompt payer? Have there been any changes to their normal payment patterns? à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Are your exports compatible with your customers normal business profile? à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Can your customer pay the bill? à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Insolvency. Remember that a customers insolvency can involve you in a pre credit risk, where losses can occur if your customer becomes insolvent during the manufacturing process or at any time before or after the despatch of the export consignment. You can obtain the information needed to carry out these checks either yourself or through a reputable credit agency or credit insurer. Country Risk As well as your customer, their country can pose separate risks that you will need to manage. Country risks traditionally fall into five areas: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Sovereign: The willingness or ability of the government to pay its debts. This is affected by the political climate within the country, internal and external threats to the country; international trading performance including balance of payments record; the level of national debt and the amount of foreign exchange reserves. Other political decisions can also frustrate your export sales; these include the imposition of embargoes, tariff or other quotas, and import or export restrictions. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Private: The ability of the private sector to pay for its imports. This situation is affected by the 2 SITPRO Management Guide: Managing the Risks of International Trade state of the domestic economy, the commercial institutions in the country, and the competence of banking and financial services sector. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Natural: Some regions of the world suffer from regular climactic catastrophes (for example annual flooding, drought, earthquakes and other disasters). When these occur they can severely disrupt the operations of both the business sector and the government. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Fashion and Finance: International trading patterns often create a fashionable region or country as an export market. In these circumstances trade finance is often readily available, allowing you to offer good credit terms to your export customers. However, fashions change and countries can quickly go out of favour for both exports and trade finance. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Other: These include transfer risks such as the inconvertibility of the local currency; transaction risks such as late or non-payment, and transition risks for emerging markets where the threats are the effectiveness of the liberalisation programme, failure to complete economic structural reforms and any possible destabilising influences. You can obtain information about country risks by visiting the country and/or by speaking to other knowledgeable organisations such as UK Trade Investment, your local chamber of commerce or one of the major banks. Credit Risk Perhaps the first question you should ask is Can I afford to give my customers credit? To decide how much credit you are prepared to advance you must consider: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The amount of credit outstanding in your trading accounts, both overseas and domestic; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ What do you know about your customer and what is the maximum amount of credit you should NOT exceed; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Can you carry any financial shortfall? What will be the impact on your business if your customer delays payment or does not pay at all? à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ How will you finance the credit period you offer? This means do you have sufficient money to allow you to offer credit terms in export sales contracts as part of your business cycle. Foreign Exchange Risk When you trade internationally you will most likely be dealing in more than one currency. This means you are exposed to fluctuations in the foreign exchange market. You can learn how to manage this risk by referring SITPROs guide on The Foreign Exchange Market. Other risks If you manufacture goods to order you must include in your export strategy a contingency that will help you manage the risk of a frustrated export this is when your customer refuses the goods. You should have a plan to either resell the product to another market or realise a salvage value for your goods. Managing the Risks of International Trade: You must also have procedures in place for the collection of your invoice amount. Under your contract you may have to collect your money in your customers country. This does have its risks as collection maybe more uncertain or expensive, so you will have to consider the legal system in their country. Your contract may, however, allow you to take legal steps to recover your debt in another country, including your own. How do I manage these risks? You can do the job yourself or employ the services of a comprehensive credit management and insurance provider. If you decide, for sound business reasons, to do the job in house then you must have the resources and knowledge to: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ gather credit and other trade information about existing, and potential, customers; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ research the country and associated risks; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ examine the need for credit insurance, identify the most appropriate policy and investigate competitive products and services; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ manage the credit insurance policy and maximise any benefits If you decide to go down this route, you will have to consider the financial and other impacts on your business. These include senior management ownership of the credit management strategy; The allocation of sufficient time, resource and money to do the job, and a review of your export catalogue prices. You must remember to include the costs of in house risk management and extending credit terms in your export quotes. Otherwise, a profit can soon turn into a loss as administrative costs eat into your bottom line. What types of risk management and insurance services are available? Classically, these are the approaches adopted by the business sector, based on the pattern of trade of the exporter. Type of business à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Supplying goods to markets and customers on a regular basis; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ A large one-off sales contract; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The supply of capital or semi-capital goods for major overseas projects; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The provision of services such as surveys or feasibility studies; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Smaller or new exporters. Products and services Depending on your type of business, the following products and services are available to you: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ A partnership with a Credit Insurer to identify and assess your business prospects and cover the risks on your exports. The service can be tailored to meet your needs, by covering all Managing the Risks of International Trade. Your sales ledger, or just your accounts with larger customers, or by having a geographic limit, or by product line, or indeed in many other ways; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ A specific insurance policy structured for a particular deal. Such a policy will take into account any factors unique to the sales contract which is being covered. Specific policies are ideal for contracts whose size or duration fall outside the normal pattern of your trade. Also they are suitable for the sale of capital or semi capital goods on extended credit. Insurance for individual contracts can be obtained from credit insurance companies but the main supplier of this service, particularly for capital goods contracts, is the Export Credits Guarantee Department (ECGD); à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Smaller or new exporters can use a Managed Credit Insurance scheme as a way of contracting-out the credit control functions (obtaining country information, checking customer details and credit limits, chasing overdue payments and making claims). The cost of these services are often included in the premium for the scheme. Where do I obtain these services? You can approach specialist credit management and insurance providers, or your insurance adviser (broker, agent or intermediary). A list of credit insurance companies can be obtained from Association of British Insurers. Details of specialist advisers can be obtained from organisations such as the British Insurance Brokers Association. With their worldwide networks credit insurance companies have years of experience and expertise in analysing and covering the risks involved in international trade. In addition to covering commercial debts and indemnifying you if your customer fails to pay, they can provide you with guaranteed cover which could improve your cash-flow, provide confidence to maximize your export sales and may enhance your borrowing power. The use of credit insurance imposes on your company a disciplined and professional approach to trade risk management. Adopting this solution can help reduce your bad debts, improve your competitiveness in the global marketplace and increase your profitability. Are there any other options open to me? There are other financial solutions to you credit management risks: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ do nothing, and carry the risk yourself. The extent of the risk you are prepared to take will determine if this option is appropriate; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Factoring or invoice discounting; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Forfaiting.; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Secured payment terms (for example, Letters of Credit); à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Insurance-backed financial packages. Managing the Risks of International Trade How much will it cost me? Like all insurance cover (premises, employers liability, business interruption) you will have to pay for your risk management and insurance services. Policies based on a specific risk are available and premium is usually on a one-off basis. Premium is calculated according to the specific risk in question, credit period offered, your customers country and the duration of the risk from the insurers perspective. There are also credit insurance policies and managed schemes that will cover all of your export turnover. Premium is usually annual and assessed against your estimated insurable turnover (the sales on credit covered). With your credit insurer you will have to agree your target export turnover for any one year. Typically, you can expect to pay between 0.35% and 0.65% for this type of policy, dependent on your products, the number of customers and range of your export markets, your export trading experience, and your own credit management system. As with all insurance cover, you should spend time researching the market and getting quotes from a range of credit insurance providers. The costs quoted are based on typical policies available for small or new exporters wishing to cover sales with fairly short delivery and payment profiles. Costs will rise for specific policies where the horizon of risk for the insurer might be 2 or 3 years as in the case of ECGD cover for capital goods projects. Conclusion Credit insurance is an important risk management tool to help you protect the payment of your overseas accounts and unlock the full potential of your export business. You should carefully consider including it in your global trading strategy. What are the major risks for business? 1. Political risk 2. Economic risk 3. Financial risk What is the risk in the following Countries..? INDIA : In India or country risk tier (CRT) is categories in three types of risks. Political, economical financial risks. * Poverty reduction in India is heavily reliant upon high levels of economic growth, which is likely to return in 2010/11. Political Risk: High à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Income disparity in India is significant, as approximately one third of the population lives in poverty. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ National security has become a focus in India as some of the major cities have been the scene of terrorist bombings. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The bilateral relationship with Pakistan is strained, and receives worldwide attention. Efforts in recent years to make reparations have been interrupted repeatedly by acts of violence. Financial System Risk: Moderate à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The insurance industry is regulated by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA). à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The Indian government is working to align its regulatory and accounting standards with international best practices. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The Indian financial system has fared relatively well during the global financial crisis. Economic Risk: Moderate à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ India, with a massive population exceeding one billion, is home to the worlds 12th largest economy as measured by gross domestic product (GDP). à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Indias information technology sector and business services sector have been drivers of growth as the government has supported development with improvements in infrastructure and regulation. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ A notable point of weakness for the Indian economy is the worsening government budget balance. The deficit will likely reach -7.0% of GDP in 2008/09. CANADA: Economic Risk: Very Low à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Canadas economy is developed, with services and manufacturing accounting for the majority of the countrys output. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ International trade is vital to the economy as exports represent about 40% of GDP with nearly 80% of those exports going to the United States. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Economic growth in Canada began to contract in the fourth quarter of 2008 and will continue to contract until 2010. Political Risk: Very Low à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Canada is a high income country with significant natural resources and an established legal system. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Canadas economy is inexorably linked to that of the United States due to the latter countrys geographic proximity, cultural similarities and economic size. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Canadas budget has moved into deficit as the government uses fiscalpolicy to help stimulate the economy. Financial System Risk: Very Low à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Insurance companies in Canada can be licensed at a national and/or provincial level. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Federal companies are registered under the Insurance Companies Act of Canada and are regulated by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions of Canada. USA: Economic Risk: Very Low à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The United States economy is the largest and most advanced in the world with gross domestic product (GDP) of more than USD 14 trillion. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The United States has the dual advantage of being rich in natural resources, both agricultural and mineral, but also capable of producing high-end products such as computers and peripherals, medical equipment, pharmaceutical products and military equipment. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The U.S. economy is currently experiencing its worst economic contraction since at least the early 1980s with unemployment expected to reach double digits and GDP reaching negative 3% in 2009. Political Risk: Very Low à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The United States has a stable democratic political system and a strong legal system. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The United States is currently involved in armed combat in Iraq and Afghanistan which has put strain on the relationships between the U.S. and much of the international community. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The U.S. is currently using expansionary fiscal policy to stimulate the economy and this has led to a substantial increase in the budget deficit. Financial System Risk: Very Low à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Insurance regulation in the United States is decentralized and handled on a state by state basis. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The financial system in the U.S. is going through a tumultuous period with the government intervention with large corporations such as Bear Stearns, Citigroup and AIG. UK: Economic Risk: Very Low à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The United Kingdom (UK) has the second largest economy in Europe behind Germany. Service industries represent three quarters of economic production, particularly financial services and real estate activities. London is a global financial center and businesses there account for nearly half of the countrys financial services industry. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The UK economy entered into a recession in the second half of 2008 as the country has been hit hard by the financial crisis and a declining housing market. The economy is not expected to recover until mid to late 2010 at the earliest. Political Risk: Very Low à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The United Kingdom is a member of the European Union. However, the United Kingdom, along with Denmark, obtained special opt-outs from the Maastricht Treaty which allows them to not adopt the euro unless they wish. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The UK government has taken steps to counteract the effects of the current financial crisis. These steps include partial nationalization of the banking system and implementing several stimulus packages. Financial System Risk: Very Low à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The Financial Services Authority (FSA) regulates the UK financial services industries, including insurance. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The UK is widely seen as a major center for international insurance and reinsurance and is home to the London Market, a wholesale market that writes risk around the world. Lloyds of London accounts for over half of the business on the London Market. JAPAN: Economic Risk: Low à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Japan, an industrialized and advanced country, is home to the second largest economy in the world behind that of the United States. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Gross domestic product (GDP) growth, which had been weak over the past 20 years, will fall sharply in 2009 as domestic demand and exports contract. The government is responding to the crisis with aggressive expansionary fiscal policies that should result in a return to modest growth in 2010. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Inflation, however, is expected to remain negative until 2011.