Rice Terraces in Danger Essay

With bare hands and primitive tools, traditional farmers in the highlands of the Phippines have been shaping the Banaue or Ifugao rice terraces into a grandeur feat that attracts the attention of worldwide visitors. The rice terraces with the cluster sites are dated more than 2,000 years old. These spectacular creations, however, are now in danger of crumbling down into oblivion. The Area in Danger These terraces are situated in the mountain region of the northern part of the Philippines about 340 kilometers away from Manila. From here, the high place could be reached some 8 to 9 hours by motor ride. These terraces have been hand-fashioned like great stairs that if laid straight from one point to another are capable of encircling half the earth’s diameter. For thousands of years, this magnificent human feat has intruded human imagination boosting human creativeness and ingenuity. For all the good attributes rendered to this property, the United Nations Educational Scientific Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has listed the site as a world heritage dubbing it as the â€Å"Eight Wonder of the World. † In 1973, the Philippine government gave these heritage properties a special recognition as a national landmark of being a valuable treasure. In 1995, the UNESCO inscribed the Banaue Rice Terraces and the cluster sites in the World Heritage List. In 1994, by virtue of the Presidential Executive Order 158, it created the Ifugao Rice UNESCO Terraces Commission that gives advisory matters to the Philippine President regarding factors affecting them. Diverse Life Forms For thousands of years, the terrace has been serving as home for diverse life forms including aquatic animals, fishes, etc. , thriving in the water-filled, pollution-free paddies. The terrace is also a home for some native red rice varieties and other indigenous rices, which are also considered endangered. In recent years, however, keen observers have noted some negative changes happening within and outside the terraces. Some contributing factors that have been diverting the terraces to these negative changes include environmental degradation and neglect, the rampant use of synthetic pesticides, degrading rice yield, fast rate of urbanization, growing poverty among terrace farmers, and the fermentation of the once solid indigenous folk cultures. Some parts of the heritage property, which were once verdantly green and fertile have now turned into partly eroded brownish, drying grasslands. In 1950, a data report from Abano (2007) shows that farmers cultivated some 15,000 hectares (about 37,000 acres) of this highland terrace. Today, that figure has dwindled to merely 5,000 hectares (about 12,000 acres) maintained by some 100,000 tribal farmers. UNESCO gave warnings in 2001 the possibility of delisting the Banaue Rice Terraces from the World Heritage List. This is because little efforts have been exerted in saving the heritage property from widening irreversible damage. From a distance, desolate terraced landscapes have already shown wears while other similar areas slowly UNESCO disappear due to lack of care. Younger populations from the darkly terraced areas have instead preferred to migrate to the cities where ‘the lights are brighter’ with more income opportunities to choose from. This transmigration has resulted to erosion, not only of the physical terraces they till, but also of the culture and traditions they have been preserving for thousands of years.

Participant Observation Essay

The two research methods in sociology are Quantitative and Qualitative. Quantitative research is typically about numbers and graphs. The purpose is to predict and classify results and create graphs and models to explain the results. The researcher is detached from the subject matter and knows exactly what they are looking for. This type of research method can begin with a thesis and is best utilized towards the end of an experiment. Qualitative research is almost the opposite. It is about the expression of the results in words or visual aids. The researcher is heavily involved in the subject matter and only knows roughly what they are looking for. This research method is best utilized towards the beginning of an experiment because the intrinsic evolutionary quality about this method (Neill, 2007). Both methods of research can be philosophically justified because they actually would work great hand in hand in one experiment. However, the practice of Qualitative research has a rich quality about it. This form of study gives leeway to freedom in experimentation. Not knowing exactly what you want to find out or learn in an experiment and a research process that is flexible is desirable to many researchers. Two research methods in anthropology are Participant Observation and Survey Research. Participant Observation involves a researcher fully immersing themself in a culture for an extended amount of time in order to experience that culture â€Å"from within† (Donohue-Lynch, 2014). This requires the researcher to participate in daily activities to gain understanding of what it means to be a native. This type of research method allows the environment and subject matter to direct the method of research. Survey Research consists of surveys, interviews, and questionnaires that give insight to a large population. It is important to consider the audience when formulating a question. The researcher must consider culture, language, and age among many other things because the question can be easily misinterpreted. Interviewing the subjects ask direct questions and leads the experiment. There are several methods of research in anthropology; however, Participant Observation appears to have some weight to its method. It seems that the best way to gain knowledge about a specific population would be to live like they do rather than question them about it, or see it in the media, or reference history. The best way to lend yourself to discovery is by fully immersing yourself in it and letting go of control, let the data uncover itself through intrinsic experiences. Each of the previously mentioned research methods is valuable to scientific study. Anthropological and Sociological research methods differ in that they aim to discover something different; they have different goals. Quantitative and Qualitative methods differ from each other in that the first utilizes a thesis and is better utilized at the beginning of an experiment and the latter does not have a clear set goal and is better utilized at the end of an experiment. However, they are the same in that they accurately examine a group of people or social group and are able to extrapolate information specific to their population through their research methods. Participant Observation and Survey Research differ in that the first uses visual aides and immersing oneself into a culture to gain knowledge about the subject groups habits and experience what it is like to be part of that group by becoming a member and participating in daily activities, the latter focuses on questionnaires, verbal or written, in order to gain information about a specific group of people by communicating and directing them to provide information that you desire, the process is more rigid and requires more technology than participant observation. However, they share a likeness in that they both reach a specific group and are effective in retrieving desired information. References Donohue-Lynch, B. (2014). Cultural anthropology: Methods. Retrieved on September 5, 2014 from http://www.qvctc.commnet.edu/brian/methods.html Neill, J. (2007) Qualitative versus quantitative research: Key points in a classic debate. Retrieved on September 4, 2014 from http://wilderdom.com/research/QualitativeVersusQuantitativeResearch.html.

Analysis of ‘Lady in Black’ by Francis Cadell Essay

Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell, associated with the Scottish colourists was born in Edinburgh in 1883 and by the age of 16 was studying at the Academie Julian in Paris. During his career he was very much influenced by the Fauvists such as Matisse and on his return to Scotland exhibited much of his own work in Edinburgh Glasgow and London. He died in poverty at the age of 54 after the economic climate made it difficult for him to sell any of his work. He painted landscapes (mainly those of Lona which were a favourite of his), interiors, still life and figures in oil and watercolour but is known most for his portraits of glamorous women. One such portrait, completed in 1921, is ‘Lady in Black’ painted in oil. The painting has a rather macabre mood as the woman within the picture has a reflective expression on her face as if longing for the past. There is a mirror behind her, which may also add to the idea of reflection. She is dressed in black, which adds to the morbid mood as it could indicate she is mourning the death of a loved one. Her body language also expresses sadness as her posture is quite slumped, and the small flowers seen behind her could have been meant for a grave. The shadow over her eyes caused by her large hat makes them look undefined and blurry, giving them a sad, depressed look. The painting itself is also very dark as there is very little light and the colours used are very dull and grey, adding to the dreary mood. The media is used very loosely, in an almost impressionistic manner, which may have sprung from Cadell being exposed to the work of the Impressionists who were active in Paris at the time he was being educated there. He uses strokes of bold colour such as the woman’s lips, the flowers in the background and the pink furniture reflected in the mirror. These strong reds and pinks could symbolise love or passion, which adds emphasis to the woman’s lost love. This piece was more or less typical of the Scottish Colourist movement, but also contains undertones of impressionism as not much line is used; instead different colours are layered on top of each other, as the impressionists were known to do. It is a very realistic piece with a well-expressed dreary, nostalgic mood.

Amazon Rainforest Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Amazon Rainforest - Essay Example The researcher of this essay states that the Amazon rain forest is the home for millions of species of exotic flora and fauna, but this forest is also facing some polluting and global warming issues recently. Two serious problems are identified in this essay. Firstly, it is a loss of invaluable flora and fauna and secondly it is an increasing threat to our ecosystem today. Both these problems are the result of deforestation, defined as an operation that is connected closely (and often incriminatingly) to the race between land users to use many exploitative means to use rainforests in the face of inappropriate (and often corrupt) government policies. The end products of deforestation are threefold: some land users become rich, a large number of people suffer hardships, and the environment is irreparably damaged. This essay aims to discuss the four main causes for the two serious problems mentioned above, such as Predisposing conditions, Indirect Causes, Direct Causes and Forest Exploi tation. The researcher also focuses on the steps, that were recommended to be taken by governments, companies and citizens to lessen the negative impact of deforestation and prepare the degraded land for a more sustainable future are founded on the conviction that it is vital for people and entities who derive income from forests be involved in finding and putting into practice suitable solutions for management and benefit-sharing of rainforest resources. It is concluded that there should be a reformation in the pattern of forest management.

Minicase-8 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Minicase-8 - Essay Example However, under the ED, only those conversion options that â€Å"establish an ownership relationship will be classified as equity† (ED-FI, p. 4). This means that, once converted, the shares are not redeemable and that the holder bears the risk of the changes in the market value of the issuer’s shares of stock. If the option does not meet this criterion, the entire convertible bond will be classified as liability. Prior to the issuance of SFAS 145, the standard used to account for early extinguishment of debt was FASB Statement No. 4, Reporting Gains and Losses from Extinguishment of Debt. Under Statement No. 4, the gains or losses realized from the early settlement of debt should be shown as part of the company’s extraordinary items in its income statement. This classification is required regardless of the reason behind the early settlement. Under SFAS 145, gains or losses from early extinguishment of debt can now be classified as part of the income or loss from continuing operations in the income statement; provided that early extinguishments of debts are part of the recurring transactions for the issuer. However, if such early extinguishments of debts are unusual or are infrequent transactions, the gains or losses realized from such early extinguishments should still be classified as extraordinary items in the income statement. The change was made because FASB recognized that early payments of debt have become part of the risk management strategy of certain companies. Such transactions are now also viewed as recurring financing activities that an entity can utilize to manage its interest rate risk. FASB also thinks that this change is consistent with the definition of unusual or extraordinary transactions under APB Opinion No. 30 and will reduce the frequency of using the caption â€Å"extraordinary items† in t he income statement. The requirement of SFAS 145 related to the classification of gains or losses from early extinguishment of debt affects

Law,Ethicsand globaisation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Law,Ethicsand globaisation - Essay Example corollary to that, because a prosperous economic life could only be attained if a society embarks upon productive ventures if it is free from the risk of loss, from adverse consequence of unforeseen incidents that, with foresight and preparation, could be averted. Economic progress comes only with confidence in the future. It is for this reason that governments in progressive countries cannot afford not to plan for a comprehensive and effective fire and safety program to address the risks posed by fire and other hazards. The concentrations of people and property within a geographical area makes the consequences of a disaster, whether man-made or natural, more severe than it otherwise should have been. It is for this reason that this study shall examine the UK and UAE efforts at improved fire and rescue capability. The law on fire service implemented in the United Kingdom is embodied in the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which applies to all non-domestic premises with a few, specific, exemptions. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) supersedes the Fire Precautions Act of 1971, in effect replacing, among other things, fire certification with a general duty to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the safety of employees from the hazards and dangers of fire. In relation to non-employees, the duty of the premises’ owner is to take such fire precautions as may be reasonably required, given the circumstances, to ascertain their safety within the premises. Furthermore, it is the duty of such owners to carry out a fire risk assessment. The novelty of the reform is that it draws together more than 100 pieces of separate legislation in force at the time. As stated earlier, it abolishes fire safety certificates for non-domestic premises, in effect transferring the burden of responsibility onto a â€Å"responsible person†, such as an employer, a building owner, occupier, or whoever has a contractual responsibility for fire

Chapter 4 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 3

Chapter 4 - Essay Example Most clients who are interested in different adverts online will depend on the information that is provided by these companies to float their adverts. The information provided gives them an opportunity to understand the regions and durations when the adverts should ne floated. There are a.lso cellular providers that have now gotten into data mining. The signals amongst the best stations and the cellular users can be used to market products that are directed to specific phone users. The calling records are projected to be one of the assets to various marketers. However, it will depend on the possibility of the customers browsing the web and accessing some sites to purchase products online. Analysis of the market is necessary given that the company finds an opportunity to understand what the customers are likely to consume and at what quantities and durations. There are four main users of data mining to marketers currently, which includes; acquisition of the customers, analysis of the basket market, analyze customer abandonment and finally to enhance customer retention and

Achievement of Maximum Profit Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Achievement of Maximum Profit - Essay Example When companies utilize their equipment more extensively maintenance and repairs cost increase. Companies that increase their labor shifts incur in higher labor costs. Average total costs equal total costs divided by quantity. The average total cost curve is U-shaped. Subtracting average fixed costs is the formula for the average variable cost. The AVC curve lies vertically below the ATC curve by the amount of the AFC. The ATC and the AVC curve never touch because the AFC never falls to zero. The total variable cost is measured by the vertical distance between the horizontal TFC lines. The AVC curve bottoms out at a lower level for Q than does the ATC curve. The marginal costs measure the increase in total cost as output Q increases by one unit. Marginal cost is less than both average total cost and average variable cost. Due to the fact that marginal costs are less than both average total cost and average variable cost the ATC and AVC falls. The ATC and AVC falls because of the MC. The marginal cost curve cuts through the AVC curve at the bottom of the AVC curve. The MC curve cuts through the ATC curve at the bottom of the ATC curve. The ATC, AVC, and MC curves are all U-shaped. The vertical gap between AVC and ATC curves steadily diminishes as Q increases. These curves never touch. Businesses have options available with respect to how much output they want to be able to produce. Economies of scale help organizations reduce their costs. Larger scale operations have higher administrative expenses. Economies of scale help reduce administrative costs. When companies incur in diseconomies of scale their operating costs rise. The LRATC curve shows the lowest average total cost at which any given level of output can be produced. The LRATC curve is made up entirely of points on the firm’s alternative ATC curves.

E-Business - Qatar Airways (3) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

E-Business - Qatar Airways (3) - Essay Example The company has also tied up with private portal Bezruk.com and common forum Frommers Unlimited and has marked its presence in social networking forum Facebook where fans of the airline regularly exchange their experiences with this airline. These e-marketing techniques have provided the airline a very substantial presence and publicity in the e-market. E-business depends on attractiveness and user friendliness of company’s website. The visitor must be completely satisfied after a tour of the site and that can be possible only when the website is designed in such a way that a busy visitor is also able to obtain the required details at the shortest possible time and with the minimum of trouble. The language used in the website also plays a substantial role for this to be achieved. The website of Qatar Airways has achieved this target quite admirably. Qatar Airways has become a deft player in the business-to-business marketplace by judiciously applying the strengths of internet in collecting, collating and analysing information related to tour and conference fliers and travel agents. By sifting the available data, the airline is in a position to identify the most economically profitable strata of business fliers and design its promotions and offers in a manner that is most attractive to the targeted strata. The airline has never been oblivious of its social responsibility and the need to behave like a responsible corporate citizen, not only in Qatar but in rest of the world also. It has undertaken numerous programmes for the benefit of orphans and autistic children in Qatar and has also donated handsomely towards rebuilding activities in China after the devastating earthquake in Sichuan province in 2008. It is also aware of environmental pollution and has instituted a programme for fuel efficiency and gradual reduction of dependency on fossil fuel. Qatar Airways has always

Applied Macroeconomics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Applied Macroeconomics - Essay Example iii. The decline in the personal savings rate of Americans will result in the shift of the IS Curve to the right. iv. A drop in business confidence following the collapse of the stock market will shift the IS Curve to the left. 4. A change in which of the following would cause the LM curve to shift To rotate, To both shift and rotate Which of these do not affect the slope or position of the LM curve i. nominal money supply (Ms) affects the position of the LM curve. The increase in the nominal money supply would cause the LM curve to move to the right. ii. the responsiveness of the demand for money to the interest rate influences the slope of the LM curve. The more responsive the demand fore money with regard to the interest rates level is, the less steep the slope of the LM curve will be. iii. the responsiveness of the demand for money to income also influences the slope of the curve. The more responsive the demand fore money to the income level is, the steeper the LM curve will be. iv. business and consumer confidence level changes have influence on the slope of the LM curve and, therefore, would cause the LM curve to rotate. v. interest rate (r) does not affect the position or slope of the LM curve. The change in interest results in change in quantity of real balances demanded and results in movement along the LM curve. vi. price level (P) influences real money demand and, as a result shift the LM curve. If the price level increases, the real demand for money decreases and the LM curve shifts to the left. 5. Explain the concept of "crowding-out". Under what circumstances could government spending be "crowded-out" Do you think this is likely to be the case "Crowding-out" takes place when expansionary fiscal policy leads to the...Increase in government spending, income tax cut or an investment subsidy will raise the interest rate if the quantity of money is unchanged. The IS Curve has negative slope because a higher level of the interest rate (vertical axis) reduces investment spending, thereby reducing aggregate demand and thus the equilibrium level of income (horizontal axis). The steepness of the curve's negative slope depends on how sensitive investment spending is to changes in the interest rate and also on the multiplier. The movement along the IS Curve occurs with the changes in the level of the interest rate and corresponding change in the level of income. If interest rate increases, the equilibrium level of income decreases, and vice versa. ii. the responsiveness of the demand for money to the interest rate influences the slope of the LM curve. The more responsive the demand fore money with regard to the interest rates level is, the less steep the slope of the LM curve will be. "Crowding-out" takes place when expansionary fiscal policy leads to the increase in the interest rates level and, thus, reduces private spending, in particular investment. This way increase in government spending "crowds-out" investment spending. Full "crowding-out" can occur under the condition of a vertical LM schedule when the fisc

Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

Assignment - Essay Example In the past, defining what equality is and should be became a contributory factor of the Revolutionary War. In the years prior to the war, the only social structure and governmental administration ideologies were those brought with them from Britain. In Britain, it was status and wealth that indicated if a citizen was qualified for equality.(Van Til 1) In other words, equality did not apply to everyone within the society only to a specific elite group. However, the American colonists were far from British life, in the colonies life was different and, often, harsh. These struggles like Indian attacks, hunger, and diseases were experienced universally by the rich and poor alike. Slowly but surely colony life and the philosophical concepts of â€Å"enlightenment† thinkers, gave people the idea that â€Å"equality† could and should not be something bestowed or earned, but something that should be a principle right.(Van Til 1) When Thomas Jefferson wrote that â€Å"all men are created equal,† it sparked the fires of change, particularly, among those that, generally, were not offered equality within society. Anti-salve supporters spoke out that it was absolutely hypocritical to speak of equality of all men, while owning and profiting from the slave trade.(Foner 4-5) Women were encouraged by the changing perceptions of equality to speak out and be more active. The Native Americans, would not benefit from this changing times, in fact, they would suffer greatly. Even as the colonists fought for the right to freedom and individual equality in the New World, the Native Americans would, sadly, lose all hope of equality, freedoms, and rights to ancestral lands. It is easy to see that in these turbulent and changing times that finding the definition of equality that was inclusive, concise, and agreeable to all, was no easy task. The Revolutionary War itself was, both, a revolt against the British rule, but, also, a civil war among colonists who did not s hare the same views on the impending rebellion.(Nash) Loyalists, those faithful to the British Crown and the Patriots, those colonists that sought to make America a new nation all of its own, were forced to stand against each other. Even the slaves found themselves on opposing sides of the war. The British gained their allegiance by offering to â€Å"free:† the slaves that would fight for them against the colonists; the colonists.. Ultimately, we know the war’s imminent outcome. The colonies prevailed and the United States was born independent from Britain. The new philosophies of American would see the abandonment of previous British traditions and social norms. By 1800, the practices of â€Å"indentured servitude† and â€Å"apprenticeships† had nearly disappeared all together. The freedoms and equalities of white men increased. The aristocratic structure of society was dismissed and, for the first time, men of all levels and stations were represented in politics; by the 1780s the majority of white males were qualified to vote.(Foner 1-2) The founding fathers did not know what impact the philosophy of equality would have on the new nation. In truth, they believed in equality of â€Å"conditioning,† not in â€Å"opportunities.† Simply meaning, all men should be treated equally, allowing for basic courtesies, dignities, and respects; they were not necessarily referring

Arthur Miller’s The Crucible Essay Example for Free

Arthur Miller’s The Crucible Essay A crucible is defined as a severe trial or a container in which metals are melted at very high temperatures. Much like how metals mold to a new shape at very high temperatures, people change when severe trials and challenges present themselves. When innocent lives are lost, a person will realize the wrongs and attempt to make things right again. The character John Hale must forget his old teachings and way of life to try to return the town of Salem to a peaceful community. In Arthur Miller’s The Crucible, Reverend John hale transforms from a prideful prosecutor of witches to a humble defender of the accused because of the guilt he experiences over the innocent lives lost during the Salem witch trials. Reverend John Hale arrives in Salem as a prideful man with intentions of persecuting the accused of witchcraft and ridding the town of all evil. Author Arthur Miller says of Hale, â€Å"This is a beloved errand of him; on being called here to ascertain witchcraft he felt the pride of the specialist whose unique knowledge has at last been publicly called for.†(Miller 1252) Miller explains that the reverend has great pride in having the opportunity to show off his skills to rid the town of Salem of witchcraft. His skills in the beginning of the trials come from his books instead of from his own intuitions. Reverend Hale brings many books into the town in order to use their knowledge to persecute the accused. He believes these books to be infallible, and they cause him to believe that he will solve all of the town’s problems with them. Along with the knowledge from his books, he speaks, â€Å"with a tasty love of intellectual pursuit.†(Miller 1257) These stage directions imply that Hale thirsts to be the all-knowing savior of Salem. In his early days at Salem this thirst and his faith in the judicial system guide him to find the suspected witches and deal with them accordingly. The reverend’s early thirst for heroism soon vanishes as the trials pursue and more unexpected people in Salem are accused of witchcraft. Hale travels to the Proctor residence by his accord, without the court’s authority, to learn more about them because Elizabeth Proctor has been mentioned in the court. Learning about the faith life of Elizabeth, Hale starts to question whether all of the accused participate in witchcraft, and doubt of the infallible judicial system starts to arise in him. This doubt grows as he says to Judge Danforth about the trials, â€Å"But is does not follow that everyone accused is part of it.†(Miller 1300) He realizes now that the accused are given no chance to plead innocent without the sure fate of death. Hale sees flaw in the judicial system that he has lived by, and wonders if the many he has condemned to death had no opportunity at all to seek innocence. Knowing that the accused have no chance for survival but through confession of witchcraft, Hale proclaims, â€Å"I have this morning signed away the soul of Rebecca Nurse, Your Honor. I’ll not conceal it, my hand shakes yet as with a wound!†(Miller 1301) He knows that Rebecca has a good life of faith, and she will most definitely be condemned to death by the so called infallible judicial system because of him. Hale shows the feeling of guilt by signing away the life of Goody Nurse, and realizes that he must try to defend the accused because the court will not. Hale loses all motivation to condemn the accused and no longer holds pride in himself or his judicial system. With his motivation to seek out witches now gone, Hale believes many of the accused to be innocent and tries to convince this to the court. He tells Judge Danforth, â€Å"I beg you, stop now before another is condemned! I may not shut my conscience to it no more—private vengeance is working through this testimony! From the beginning this man has struck me true. By my oath to Heaven, I believe him now.†(Miller 1311) His guilt pushes him to defend the accused in front of the judge so that their blood will not be on his hands. Hale knows his association with the courts will result in the loss of innocent lives, and he cannot live with himself knowing this. Knowing now that the court operates with error, he quits it and denounces its proceedings. John Hale no longer want to participate in the court’s murdering of the innocent, and feels guilty for the lives that he has already condemned through the judicial system. Hale now knows that he needs to think for himself rather than following the laws and rules of the judicial system he has lived by his whole life. Working separate from the court, the reverend says, â€Å"I come to do the Devil’s work. I come to counsel Christians they should belie themselves.†(Miller 1325) Hale knows that the only way to rid the guilt from his mind is to convince the accused to lie and confess so that their lives may be saved. He has lost faith in the court system that will condemn innocent lives, and, throwing away his pride, puts out one last effort to save some of the lives he has condemned. His motivation has changed from condemning the witches in the town to attempting to save the accused. As his efforts are about to fail, he drops to his knees and says, â€Å"What profit him to bleed? Shall the dust praise him? Shall the worms declare his truth? Go to him, take his shame away!†(Miller 1334) His efforts to defend the accused fail, and guilt overwhelms him. Reverend John Hale cannot live with the innocent lives he has sentenced to murder and is humbled as the accused are led to their death. â€Å"Cleave to no faith when faith brings blood†(Miller 1326) says a transformed reverend as the Salem witch trials come to an end. Reverend Hale loses not only his faith in the judicial system, but also in the God who he believed to be too perfect to allow these tragic events to happen. He humbles himself because the pride that he once had leads to the death innocent lives in Salem. In The Crucible by Arthur Miller, Reverend John Hale changes from a prideful prosecutor of the witches to a humble defender of the accused because of the guilt that overwhelms him due to the innocent blood shed at his hands during the Salem witch trials.

Theory And Practice Of Supervision

Theory And Practice Of Supervision Supervision theories and practices began emerging as soon as counsellors started to train other counsellors (Bernard Goodyear, 2009). Several different theoretical models have developed to clarify and support counselling supervision. The focus of early models of supervision had generally been based on counselling theories (such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Adlerian or client-centred), but these orientation-specific models have begun to be challenged as supervision has many characteristics that are different to counselling. Competency as a counsellor does not automatically translate into competency as a supervisor, and when supervisee/supervisor orientations differ, conflicts may arise (Falender Safranske, 2004). More recent models of supervision have integrated theories from psychology and other disciplines, for one-to-one, peer and group supervision. As supervision has become more focused, different types of models emerged, such as developmental models, integrated models, and agency models. As a result, these models have to some extent replaced the original counselling theory models of supervision, and supervisors may utilise several different models to qualify and simplify the complexities of supervision (Powell, 1993). This paper will briefly look at a definition of supervision, and an outline of two different models agency and developmental. What is Supervision? Supervision is the process where by a counsellor can speak to someone who is trained to identify any psychological or behavioural changes in the counsellor that could be due to an inability to cope with issues of one or more clients. A supervisor is also responsible for challenging practices and procedures, developing improved or different techniques, and informing clients of alternative theories and/or new practices, as well as industry changes. The supportive and educative process of supervision is aimed toward assisting supervisees in the application of counselling theory and techniques to client concerns (Bernard Goodyear, 2009). The supervisor is responsible for monitoring the mental health of their supervisee, in turn protecting the public from unhealthy counsellors. Counsellors can face issues such as transference and burn out without any recognition of the symptoms. A supervisor should notice the symptoms before the counsellor (Australian Counsellors Association, 2009). Supervision is a formal arrangement for counsellors to discuss their work regularly with someone who is experienced in counselling and supervision. The task is to work together to ensure and develop the efficiency of the counsellor/client relationship, maintain adequate standards of counselling and a method of consultancy to widen the horizons of an experienced practitioner (ACA, 2009). The supervisors primary role is to ensure that their clients are receiving appropriate therapeutic counselling. By ensuring the counsellor continually develops their professional practice in all areas, the supervisor ensures a counsellor remains psychologically healthy. The supervisor is also responsible for detecting any symptoms of burn out, transference or hidden agendas in the supervisee. The Australian Counsellors Association (2009) recommends that supervisors cover the following as a matter of course: Evaluation Supervisees counselling; Developing process of self-review; Quality assurance; Best practice; Service outcomes of service delivery; Identifying risk for supervisee and clients; Referrals; Follow up on client progress; Helping the counsellor assess strengths and weaknesses. Education Establishing clear goals for further sessions; Providing resources; Modelling; Explaining the rationale behind a suggested intervention and visa versa; Professional development; Interpreting significant events in the therapy session; Convergent and divergent thinking; Use of self; Topping up; Facilitating peer connection; Duty of care; Legal responsibilities. Administration Procedures; Paperwork; Links; Accounting; Case planning; Record keeping; Insurance. Support Advocate; Challenge; Confront; Empower; Affirm; Availability; Empowering; Use of self. A range of different models have evolved to provide a framework for these topics within which supervisors of can organize their approaches to supervision, and act as an aid to understanding reality (Powell, 1993). Agency Model of Supervision Kadushin Kadushin describes a supervisor as someone to whom authority is delegated to direct, coordinate, enhance, and evaluate on-the-job performance of the supervisees for whose work he/she is held accountable. In implementing this responsibility, the supervisor performs administrative, educational, and supportive functions in interaction with the supervisee in the context of a positive relationship (Powell, 1993). In educational supervision the primary issue for Kadushin is the counsellor knowing how to perform their job well and to be accountable for work performed, and developing skills through learning and feedback. The object is to increase understanding and improve skill levels by encouraging reflection on, and exploration of the work (Tsui, 2005). In supportive supervision the primary issue is counsellor morale and job satisfaction, as well as dealing with stress. The stresses and pressures of the coaching role can affect work performance and take its toll psychologically and physically. In extreme and prolonged situations these may ultimately lead to burnout. The supervisors role is to help the counsellor manage that stress more effectively and provide re-assurance and emotional support (Tsui, 2005). The administrative function is the promotion and maintenance of good standards of work and adherence to organisational policies and good practice. This includes reviews and assessments. The interpretation here is that the supervisor inducts the counsellor into the norms, values and best practices. It is the community of practice dimension ensuring that standards are maintained (Tsui, 2005. Not every supervision session will involve all three areas or functions, and at different times there may be more of a focus on one area rather than another. The supervisor cannot avoid the pressure that arises from their responsibility to the workplace, other staff, and to clients. No simple model of supervision is to be expected to be practical in every situation. Supervisors are expected to adapt approaches to the developmental level of supervisees, and both must adapt to the varying demands of any professional situation (Powell, 1993). For this model, the focus of supervision is as a prompt for behavioural change and skill acquisition. The emphasis is on persuading staff to learn how to use oneself in counselling to promote behavioural change in the client (Powell, 1993). The supervisors attention should be on the activities of the supervisee rather than on study of the supervisee themselves. With a focus on the activity, rather than the worker, it allows the supervisee to listen to constructive criticism rather than feeling compelled to defend themselves from a personal attack (Tsui, 2005). This model has several strengths in that it is very flexible, and open to exploration and experimentation. It is also more challenging for both the supervisor and supervisee. This style of supervision can be tailored to meet different needs and variables. This model may prove unsatisfactory when the supervisor has insufficient experience to be able to provide proper direction and support, and where supervisor skills do not allow for appropriate evaluation of the supervisee (Powell, 1993). Developmental Models of Supervision Erskine Underlying developmental models of supervision is the notion that as people and counsellors we are continuously growing and maturing; like all people we develop over time, and this development and is a process with stages or phases that are predictable. In general, developmental models of supervision define progressive stages of supervisee development from novice to expert, each stage consisting of discrete characteristics and skills (Bradley Ladany, 2000). For example, supervisees at the beginning or novice stage would be expected to have limited skills and lack confidence as counsellors, while middle stage supervisees might have more skill and confidence and have conflicting feelings about perceived independence/dependence on the supervisor. A supervisee in a later developmental stage is expected to employ good problem-solving skills and be reflective about the counselling and supervisory process (Haynes, Corey, Moulton, 2003). Erskine (1982) identifies three stages in the development of the skills of a therapist, each of which represents specific characteristics and responds to specific training needs. In the beginning stage of training, therapists have operational needs as they are developing professional skills, a sound theoretical reference system, and intervention techniques. They also have emotional needs: to feel comfortable in their professional role, to be reassured of their ability to do the work, and to feel adequate to act in this new undertaking. This is the stage at which trainees most need positive motivations centred on their skills so that they can know their strengths and on which they can build their skills. Erskine (1982) suggests temporarily ignoring what the trainee does not do well so as to reduce any feelings of inadequacy and to support self esteem, provided this does not cause harm to the trainee or clients. During the intermediate stage of training, Erskine proposes that trainees need to reinforce their personal identity as therapists, learn to define the direction of treatment, and draw up a treatment plan. At the personal level, their goal is to integrate their sense of self and to work on their emotions in order to understand and solve any personal difficulties that might create obstacles to their contact with clients. According to Erskine, in this second phase, trainees personal therapy is of highest importance (Bradley Ladany, 2000). During the advanced stage of training, trainees need to learn various approaches and to integrate theoretical frameworks, to recognise alternative interventions, and to choose among them so as to encourage flexibility. Trainees must also practise self-supervision and learn to differentiate between observations of behaviour, and theorising about observations (Stoltenberg Delworth, 1987). One of the potential drawbacks of developmental models is that not only do people learn in different ways but they also develop at diverse speeds, in varied areas. The development model does not show how the supervisee develops and moves from one stage to the next, and how this progress is connected to the supervision process (Bradley Ladany, 2000). For this model, it is necessary to modify the relationship to meet the supervisees needs based on their current developmental level. Supervisors employing a development approach to supervision need to be able to accurately identify the supervisees current stage of development and provide feedback and support appropriate to that developmental stage, while at the same time assisting the supervisees advancement to the next stage (Stoltenberg Delworth, 1987) Commonalities Regardless of the model used or theoretical background, any model or theory of supervision should cover some common fundamental principles. Supervisors are responsible for the professional developmental of those under supervision. These responsibilities involve issues such as informed consent, confidentiality, and dual relationships (ACA, 2009). Ethical and legal concerns are central to supervision. The balance between a supervisory relationship and a therapeutic one only becomes a problem when the supervisor discovers that personal problems hold back the supervisee. The supervisory relationship becomes a dual relationship if the supervisor tries to become the students therapist. A dual relationship is considered unethical (Powell, 1993). Dual relationships can occur in different ways. A supervisory relationship can develop into a close, emotional relationship between supervisor and supervisee. The supervisory relationship will in this situation be less effective and supervision should not continue. In consensual relationships the emotional relationship can continue; however, the professional relationship has to end. The supervisory relationship needs to be governed by the same ethical principle as is the therapeutic process (Powell, 1993). Different ways of evaluating the supervisory process are important both for the supervisor and the supervisee. Establishing a contract for the supervisory relationship makes evaluation easier. The contract should include the students developmental needs, the supervisors competencies, and supervisory goals and methods (Stoltenberg Delworth, 1987). Throughout the supervision process, the supervisor is responsible for evaluating the quality of the supervisory relationship (Powell, 1993). This responsibility especially comes to bear when a conflict arises or an impasse develops. Investigating problems and challenges often begins with asking questions about various aspects of the supervisory relationship. When asking these questions, it is important to consider not only how the counsellor may be contributing to a problem but also how the supervisor may be contributing. The supervisor has a responsibility to ensure that confidentiality is maintained, and any information obtained in a clinical or consulting relationship is discussed only for professional purposes and only with persons clearly concerned with the case (ACA, 2009). Conclusion Supervision is not a senior counsellor watching over the shoulder of a new or junior counsellor. Nor is it a conversation between two practitioners, or a dialogue of personal matters with a counsellor. It is a distinct intervention, to enhance professional functioning and monitor the quality of counselling services being provided (Bernard Goodyear, 2009). Clinical supervision is a complex activity; it can be education or support, assists with confidence or doubts, it can process through different levels or stages. The competent clinical supervisor must embrace not only the domain of psychological science, but also the domains of client service and trainee development. The competent supervisor must not only comprehend how these various knowledge bases are connected, but also apply them to the individual case (Bradley Ladany, 2000). The purpose is to help identify obstacles that prevent the supervisee from learning, growing and ultimately helping their client. No matter what theoretical framework is used, supervision can be used as a means to develop professionally. Like any other relationship in life it is not perfect, nor is it an answer to every problem. Like any other relationship, it is necessary to be honest, consistent, and dependable, and work hard to build trust. Supervisors and supervisees have to work together to make it successful. Powell (1993) theorised that the emphasis should not be on why a counsellor feels a certain way, but on being able to put a end to behaviours that inhibit change. Powell advises professionals to develop their own model of supervision in order to understand what one is doing and why. Whatever model of supervision if employed, a supervisor should seek to encourage ongoing professional education, challenge the supervisee to improve their skills and techniques A supervisor should intervene where client welfare is at risk, and ensure that ethical guidelines and professional standards are maintained. A supervisee should endeavour to uphold ethical guidelines and professional standards, be open to change and alternative methods of practice, maintain a commitment to continuing education and consult the supervisor in cases of emergency. Supervision, regardless of any model used, should enable counsellors to acquire new professional and personal insights through their own experiences. REFERENCES Australian Counsellors Association (2009). Professional Supervision. Accessed 2nd February 2010. http://www.theaca.net.au/docs/Supervision_Complete.pdf Bernard, J. M., Goodyear, R. K. (2009). Fundamentals of clinical supervision (4th ed.). Needham Heights, MA: Allyn Bacon. Bradley, L.J., Ladany, N. (2000). Counsellor Supervision: Principles, Process and Practice. Philadelphia, PA: Brunner-Routlege. Erskine, R. G. (1982). Supervision for psychotherapy: Models for professional development. Transactional Analysis Journal, 12, 314-321. Falender, C. A., Shafranske, E. P. (2004). Clinical supervision: A competency-based approach. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association. Haynes, R., Corey, G., Moulton, P. (2003). Clinical supervision in the helping professions: A practical guide. Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole. Powell, D. (1993). A developmental approach to supervision. In Clinical supervision in alcohol and drug abuse counselling. (p. 58-84). New York, NY: Lexington Books. Stoltenberg, C. D., Delworth, U. (1987). Supervising counsellors and therapists. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass. Tsui, Ming-Sum (2005). Social work supervision: contexts and concepts. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.

Analysis Of Feyerabends Against Method Philosophy Essay

Analysis Of Feyerabends Against Method Philosophy Essay Paul, Karl Feyerabend (1924-1994) is one representative of the post positivism, studies Philosophy and Methodology of Science.  He formulated a number of fruitful methodological ideas, developed the anarchist theory of knowledge, which has received great attention in the international philosophical community. Paul Karl Feyerabend was born January 13, 1924 in Vienna.  He received an excellent education.  His interests were very different: in Weimar, he studied drama in London, and in Copenhagen he studied philosophy, microphysics, and in Vienna history.  His teaching career began in Vienna as an assistant professor of the Vienna Institute of Arts and Sciences.  From 1951 he lectured at the University of Bristol, from 1958 he worked in the U.S. (because of this it is usually ranked among the American Scientists).   Name Feyerabend has acquired international fame thanks to the concept of epistemological anarchism.  Furthermore, Feyerabend criticizes the view that the theory is just a convenient scheme for organizing facts.  He emphasizes that every scientific theory has its own special way of viewing the world.  Her perception is influenced by peoples shared beliefs and expectations, and through this the experience and our perception of the real.  It turns out that the facts and experimental results, serve as a measure of reliability theory in the classical science, is not so infallible, but rather due to the original setting of the researcher.  On the basis of this statement, Feyerabend introduces the rule, which states that it is necessary to introduce and develop hypotheses that are incompatible with the well-grounded theory that existed previously with the facts and the experimental data.  Because it is often the evidence that can disprove a theory, it can be obtained only by us ing an alternative that is incompatible with this theory.  The recommendation to use an alternative only after a denial has discredited the orthodox theory, puts, according to Feyerabend, the cart before the horse.  The rule of the Feyerabend puts the basis of its pluralistic methodology.  In the article against the methodological constraint (Against Method, London: Verso, 1975) Feyerabend wrote that a true scientist should compare ideas with other ideas, not experience, and seek to improve those concepts that were defeated in the competition, rather than discard them.  In doing so, he retains the concept of man and cosmos as contained in the book of Life or Pomander, and will use them to gauge the success of the theory of evolution and other innovative concepts.  Feyerabend gained fame largely due to the requirement to develop incompatible with the facts of the theory on the grounds, that there was no single more or less interesting theory, which is consistent with all kn own facts.  It was for the possible existence of a pluralistic methodology to the lack of established standards, propaganda, coercion.  Hence the thesis that everything is permissible (anything goes). Feyerabend said that science is a relatively new form of knowledge that occurred two hundred years ago, which was born in a fierce conflict with religion and, perhaps, itself sooner or later be barred from forward positions in any other form of knowledge. Science is much closer to myth than willing to allow philosophy of science.  It dazzles only those who have already decided in favor of a particular ideology or not at all reflect on the advantages and limitations of science.  After all, modern science is dominated not by virtue of its merits, but because of the organized for her advocacy and promotions.  This is a form of ideology, and it, according to Feyerabend, should be separated from the state, as is already done in regard to religion.  How can be organized the state, in which there is an approach to science? First of all, Feyerabend rejects the idea that to solve the problems there should be a theory, developed by experts, for example,  intellectuals who explain what is possible and what is impossible.  In a free society, intellectuals, and ideas that their value, and the ways that they deem most appropriate, represent only one of many traditions.  Problems are solved by non-specialist (though their advice is not ignored).  Feyerabend writes: But take, for example, the idea of motion of the Earth.  It originated in antiquity, was defeated by arguments and then was considered an incredible absurdity of Ptolemy, and, nevertheless, returned in triumph in the 18 century.  One can cite many other examples to prove the following moral: the time lag in the development of some ideology (which is a bunch of theories, connected with a specific method and more general philosophical concept) should not be considered grounds for its removal. To create a free society, there should be provided equal rights to all traditions, but in order to implement this project to change the structure of society from the ideological to the protective (do not impose a theory as required, but supporting all theories).  Of course, Feyerabend often has been accused of outrageous and utopian, but we cannot deny the positive influence of his critics on the academic, an established and dogmatize science. In his book Against Method and Science in a free society, Feyerabend defended the idea that there is no methodological rules, which are always used by scientists.  He opposed a single, tradition, scientific method, arguing that any such method of putting some limits on the activities of scientists, and thus limits of the progress.  According to his view, science would benefit most from a dose of anarchism in scientific theory. He also believed that anarchism in theory is desirable, because it is more humanistic approach than the other scientific systems, since it does not force scientists to rigid rules. Can we exclude the possibility that the presently known science, or search for truth in the style of traditional philosophy, will turn a man into a monster?  Is it possible to exclude the possibility that it will be waning man turned into a miserable, moody, arrogant mechanism, devoid of charm and sense of humor?  Can we rule out the possibility asks Kierkegaard that my work as an objective or rational critical observer of nature weakens my human nature? I believe that the answer to all these questions must be negative, and I am sure that  Reform of Sciences will make them more anarchistic and more subjective (in Kierkegaards sense) is essential. (Against Method) Feyerabends position in the philosophical community is radical enough, since it implies that philosophy cannot successfully describe science as a whole, nor can it develop a method of separating scientific papers on nonscientific entities, such as myths.  It also suggests that developed and recommended by the philosophy of common course of science should be rejected by scientists, if it is necessary for further progress. To support his contention that adherence to methodological rules does not lead to success in science, Feyerabend cites examples to refute statements that would (correctly) help the science is valid corresponds to certain fixed rules.  He considers some of the episodes in the history of science considered as the indisputable examples of progress in science (such as the scientific revolution of Copernicus), and shows that in these cases violated all accepted rules of science.  Moreover, he argues that if these rules are adhered to, then in these historical situations scientific revolution could not happen. One of the criteria for evaluating scientific theories, which have been actively criticized by Feyerabend is a criterion for consistency.  He points out that the insistence on the fact that the new theory has consistently continued the old theory that gives undue advantage of the old theories, and that the sequence with respect to the old theories does not lead to the fact that the new theory describes reality better than another new theory, which is a  sequence not in compliance.  That is, if you need to choose between two equally compelling theories, the choice of one of them, which is compatible with the old, already invalid theory will be more aesthetic choice, rather than rational.  After the acquaintance with such theory, scientists can also be harmful because they do not discard much long-standing bias in the transition to a new theory. Many critics agree with Feyerabend . He states that everyone has the right to choose.  And the option do not drown is not necessarily true.  In other words, it seems that Feyerabend does not believe the pursuit of truth and objectivity, knowledge of concepts about the really important goal. The first step in the critique of conventional human concepts and responses is to get out of the circle and either to invent a new conceptual system, such as a new theory that comes into conflict with the most firmly established observational results and reverses the most plausible theoretical principles, or to transfer  a system of what is science, of religion, mythology, from the ideas of incompetent people, or from the ravings of a madman. Feyerabend 1993. One problem is the concept that blurs the line between Feyerabend process of the invention of a scientific theory and its justification.  Arguing that the source of the theory can be anything goes, he denies the need for rational jus tification of the theory, thus diverting their concept to the region of extreme relativism. For all the apparent humanity of the concept, the desire to create a society where everyone will be developed individually, and the state will protect all forms of knowledge, Feyerabend provisions are too general and abstract. In any of his works he does not explain what in fact is bad in this or that theory, or whether the generally accepted concept about the world order are false. Towards a theory of epistemological anarchism, Feyerabend push its social and political beliefs.  He always came to the consideration of science and its methodology from the standpoint of humanism, happiness, and the free development of all people.He opposed to the spiritual enslavement of people, and rebels against the science when it dogmatization is used as a bondage. Anarchism of Feyerabend is, in fact, a rebellion against the spiritual slavery, which keeps peoples bourgeois culture.

Getting Out Of Reach :: essays research papers

Getting Out of Reach Prescription drug prices are rising much faster than the rate of general consumer inflation. The most heavily affected are those who can least afford it, like older Americans living on fixed incomes, and the working poor with inadequate or no health insurance. The rise in drug prices is causing the public to ask why. The reasons include the immense research costs, consumer advertising and the growth of managed care. The continue rise in prescription drugs costs has touched off intense public debate on how best people can get some relief. Some politicians and consumer groups have pushed for some form of price controls. Drug companies oppose price regulations. They contend it would restrain innovation in an industry that invests billions of dollars annually on research. Joe Madera, a retired man in his late 60s living in Pomona, CA, pays more than $250 a month out of pocket for prescription drugs to maintain his diabetes under control. Medicare covers his doctor bi lls and any hospital visits, but the federal health program does not cover prescription. While this man’s household income is fixed, the cost of his medication just keeps going up. Most Americans do not feel the increase in drug prices directly because they purchase prescription medicines through their employee health plans or their HMOs, where they do not pay the full price, often making only a $10 or $20 co-payments. The rise in drug prices does hit this group indirectly. Many health insures have blamed higher drug cost as the reason behind hikes in medical premiums or restriction of benefits. One reason why retail prices are going up is hat the new generation of drugs is expensive to produce. The cost of research and developments are high. Creating a complex, genetically engineered drug versus producing a conventional drug is like the difference between manufacturing a Ford Escort car and designing a fine German Mercedes-Benz. Indeed, the process of taking a drug from the laboratory to the patient is a lengthy one, requiring years and costing millions of dollars. And success is not guaranteed. Often there is a huge difference between how a drug behaves in the test tube and how it acts on humans. New drugs typically require several phases of tests on humans to demonstrate that they work and do not produce serious side effects. Only one medicine out of five makes it through human clinical tests, a representative for the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America argue.

acters and actresses Essay -- essays research papers

Actors and Actress   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Actors and Actresses are some of the most driven, courageous people on the face of the earth. They deal with more day-to-day rejection in one year than most people do in a lifetime. Each day, actors/actress face the financial challenge of living a freelance lifestyle, the disrespect of people who think they should get 'real' jobs, and their own fear that they'll never work again. Every day they have to ignore the possibility that the vision to which they have dedicated their lives is a pipe dream. With every passing year, many of them watch as the other people their age achieve the predictable milestones of normal life-the car, the family, and the house. Though to become an actor or actress one must follow a certain guideline (an education) as any other career does.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  To begin with, to become an actor or an actress a person must start with their education young. In High School a student should put their minds in the fields of Performing Arts in other words Drama (Crafton 32). There they would learn the basic terms and history of Acting. There are two clear avenues to turn to while becoming a professional actor. One is just as trivial and nearly futile as the other, but someone who truly wants to pursue the field will tolerate the hardships. The first path is, logically enough, is go to drama school. Formal training is not a must, but it helps if one wants to be a professional actor (Harrop 147). If you have studied the craft it gives you a leg up over anyone else looking for the same job. To enter a school solely for acting, not just the drama department of a larger university, SAT scores and high school record aren’t always looked at. For some drama schools, a complete high school education isn’t even needed. How ever, the more prestigious the school, the higher the standards are. If you were to try to get into the Performing Arts College at, say, Columbia University in New York, the requirements are much higher at the testing level. At any school, no matter Ivy League or community college, to enter the performing arts department one has to audition. In continuance, some drama students may sometimes require a singing audition as well as monologues. After all, the most popular form of stage drama is the musical. Naturally, entrance essays are needed as well as recommendation lette... ..., you must get a formal training at an acting school as well as staying involved with as many shows as possible building up your rà ©sumà ©. Being an Actor/Actress is a hard career to pursue and if pursued a lot of talent as well as patience is needed in order to accomplish. Although an education is not needed to be an actor or actress, you should never escape it. Education is an essential part of our lives and the world we live in and forever it always will remain important for whatever career you choose to enter including acting. Work Cited Crafton, Allen. Acting; a Book for the Beginner. New York: F. S.Crofts, 1928. Haase, Cathy. Acting for Film. New York: Allworth Press, 2003. Harrop, John. Acting. New York: Routledge, 1992. Occupational Outlook Handbook.21 Mar. 2004. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor.27 Nov. 2004. â€Å"Oprah Winfrey Biography.† About Oprah. 2004. Harpo Productions. 18 Nov. 2004. â€Å"Oprah Winfrey Entertainment Executive.† Academy of Achievement, A Museum of Living History. 3 Mar. 2003. Academy of Achievement. 19 Nov. 2004. Moore, Dick. Opportunities in Acting Careers. Lincolnwood (Chicago), Ill: VGM Career Horizons, 1999.

Case Study Practicum In Educational Leadership Education Essay

Leadership is an indispensable ingredient for guaranting that every kid gets the educaA ­tion they need to win. Indeed, instruction leading has been called the â€Å" span † that can convey together the many different reform attempts in ways that practically nil else can. Teachers are on the front lines of acquisition. But principals at the school degree, and superintenA ­dents at the territory degree, are unambiguously positioned to supply a clime of high outlooks, a clear vision for better instruction and acquisition, and the agencies for everyone in the system – grownups and kids – to recognize that vision. As one principal late put it, â€Å" It is non merely about being an decision maker, it ‘s about being instructional leaders. † Experience to day of the month has taught us: that in order to acquire the leaders we want and need in every school, it ‘s non plenty to better their preparation, every bit pressing as that is. Different topographic points and territories besides need to make: Standards that spell out clear outlooks about what leaders need to cognize and make to better direction and acquisition and that form the footing for keeping them acA ­countable for consequences ; and Conditionss and inducements that support the ability of leaders to run into those criterions. These include the handiness of informations to inform leaders ‘ determinations ; the authorization to direct needful resources to the schools and pupils with the greatest demands ; and poliA ­cies that affect the enlisting, hiring, arrangement and rating of school leaders. Each of these nucleus elements for better instruction leading is critical. But what is every bit imporA ­tant is that territories need to work much more closely together in making more supA ­portive leading criterions, preparation and conditions. To make, in other words, what we ‘ve come to name a cohesive leading system. We need leading to hammer all of the assorted elements of today ‘s school reform attempts into a well-functioning system that makes sense for those working difficult to accomplish consequences for kids. A well-functioning system means non merely improved preparation – but â €Å" a more consistent web of support for strong, learning-focused leading in schools and school territories. Partial solutions – like new functions without the authorization to transport them out, or more focal point on larning without seasonably informations on consequences – are likely to take to failure. â€Å" The world is that if we continue to set good leaders into a bad system, we will besides hold to go on to wager on a system that has failed to function far excessively many kids. † We ‘re still at the beginning of this national journey to better school leading that can do a mensurable difference in raising pupil accomplishment across full school territories and provinces. However, the corporate work over the past eight old ages has given us a batch to construct on, and we must go on this work with even greater urgency. As Aristotle reminds us, â€Å" All who have meditated on the art of regulating worlds have been convinced that the destiny of imperiums depends on the instruction of young person. † Effective principals encourage others to fall in in the decision-making procedure in their schools. â€Å" Influence in schools is non a fixed amount or a zero-sum game. † Research workers have examined leading accomplishments from a assortment of positions. Early analyses of leading, from the 1900s to the 1950s, differentiated between leader and follower features. Finding that no individual trait or combination of traits to the full explained leaders ‘ abilities, research workers so began to analyze the influence of the state of affairs on leaders ‘ accomplishments and behaviours. Subsequent leading surveies attempted to separate effectual from non-effective leaders. These surveies attempted to find which leading behaviours were exemplified by effectual leaders. To understand what contributed to doing leaders effectual, research workers used the eventuality theoretical account in analyzing the connexion between personal traits, situational variables, and leader effectivity. Leadership surveies of the 1970s and 1980s one time once more focused on the single features of leaders which influence their effectivity and the success of their organ isations. The probes led to the decision that leaders and leading are important but complex constituents of organisations. Teacher leading has been seen in traditional functions such as section caputs, textbook acceptance commission presidents, and brotherhood representatives. In add-on to being restricted to these three countries, â€Å" traditional leading chances for instructors are highly limited and by and large serve an efficiency map instead than a leading map † . However current educational reforms prompt a reconsideration of teacher leading. Reforms such as site based direction and restructuring attempts include broader functions for teacher engagement and leading. Current teacher leading functions are affecting instructors as wise mans, squad leaders, course of study developers, and staff development suppliers and intend to â€Å" better the quality of public instruction while leting instructors greater leading in the development of those betterments † . These functions involve instructors in decision-making procedures and facilitate instructors going leaders of alteration. Nickse ( 1977 ) studied instructors as alteration agents and advocated instructors in leading functions in alteration attempts for four grounds: instructors have a vested involvement, â€Å" they care about what they do and how they do it and experience a sense of duty for their attempts † ; instructors have a sense of history, they are â€Å" cognizant of the norms of their co-workers † ; instructors know the community, â€Å" have information refering the values and attitudes of the community † and instructors can implement alteration, they â€Å" are where the action is. . .in the place to originate planned alteration on the footing of demand † . Yet despite these grounds and efforts to advance instructors as leaders of alteration and to widen teacher leading functions, instructors do non see themselves as leaders. However, the informations on leaders of educational alteration and the emerging information on instructor leading indicate that the features of these persons mirror those of leaders who have changed other organisations. Leaderships of educational alteration have vision, further a shared vision, and value human resources. They are proactive and take hazards. In add-on, they strongly believe that the intent of schools is to run into the academic demands of pupils and are effectual communicators and hearers. Leaderships of educational alteration have vision ; foster a shared vision, and value human resources. They are proactive and take hazards. School leaders are originative visionaries willing to take hazards in chase of precious values and able to cleaving to a vision with a doggedness that is contagious to about everyone † . The importance of principals holding a vision besides appears in the literature refering instructional. Principals have a vision — a image of what they want their schools to be and their pupils to accomplish. â€Å" Leadership requires a vision. Without a vision to dispute followings with, there ‘s no possibility of a chief being a leader † . The vision provides counsel and way for the school staff, pupils, and disposal. â€Å" Supplying vision and way for the school † as a constituent of instructional leading. Principals keep their â€Å" vision in the head † . â€Å" Associated with a vision has to be a program, a manner of making the end † . The footings â€Å" mission † and â€Å" goal-oriented † are frequently used in literature to depict this feature of principals. The school decision makers ‘ values and beliefs form her or his vision. Vision influences the school clime which includes instructors ‘ instructional behaviours every bit good as pupil results. While decision makers ‘ visions tend to concentrate on district- or school- broad instructional issues, instructors ‘ visions tend to turn to instructor functions and pupil results. Murphy, Everston, and Radnofsky ( 1991 ) discussed instructors ‘ sentiments on restructuring and found that while instructors agreed with the literature refering restructuring, they emphasized the pupil and instructional issues. These instructors ‘ visions included alterations in the schoolroom, such as interdisciplinary course of study, varied pupil grouping forms, and direction that included basic literacy every bit good as â€Å" critical thought, creativeness, curiousness, and independency of idea † ( Murphy, Everston, & A ; Radnofsky, 1991, p. 144 ) . Teachers ‘ vision besides included school alterations that would ensue in more participatory and decision- devising functions for instructors. School decision makers that have developed a shared vision with their mod ule have besides created common land that serves to ease or oblige action to the realisation of this common vision. The relationship between the instructors ‘ and decision makers ‘ vision is of import. Administrators ‘ vision tends to embrace the whole system. Teachers ‘ vision appears to concentrate chiefly on the person or personal actions for school alteration. However, closer scrutiny of the two — instructors ‘ and decision makers ‘ visions — may uncover that both groups of pedagogues are looking at the same vision but go toing to different facets. School decision makers that have developed a shared vision with their module have besides created common land that serves to ease or oblige action to the realisation of this common vision. Frequently underlying a shared vision are instructors ‘ and decision makers ‘ shared values and beliefs, specifically believing that schools are for pupils ‘ acquisition.School ContextA High School with more than 1500 pupils coming largely from low income population countries. You can happen instr uctors unwilling to join forces and work in squads, pupils underachieving and unsupported. The aim is to hold all the school members worked together to do the school a high- achieving acquisition environment where the civilization of the pupils is valued and supported. Through teamwork, staff development, and a uninterrupted focal point on pupil acquisition, the staff and principal will implement new instructional techniques, tight the course of study, and better accomplishments. Teachers will seek new attacks in their schoolrooms. They will see each other ‘s categories monthly to detect, discourse, and give feedback in an informal signifier of equal coaching.Implementing changes/MethodologyMany instructors remain unconvinced by the rule of inclusion. Collaborative action research can pull more instructors into the exciting challenge of prosecuting all their students in larning. Teachers should hold ownership of the research and work collaboratively and there should be a focal point on the effects of their pattern on students ‘ acquisition and engagement. The alteration procedure through which schools and bunchs are supported and work to better their acquisition and instruction is the sequence of events and actions taken by instructors, working as a squad, to better acquisition and instruction in the school. The Principles are cardinal to this ; they provide the focal point and are a mention point for speaking about acquisition and instruction and clarifying ends and school-based enterprises. The alteration procedure is designed to ease locally based determinations about acquisition and instruction. The action program is an in agreement place generated at the school degree about actions related to pedagogy that the school will set about to convey about alteration. These determinations are determined by the peculiar and single conditions and ends of each school, determinations that merely the school can do. The action program includes monitoring processes that aid instructors refine their instruction attacks and measure whether the alt erations lead to improved pupil results. For bunchs set abouting this plan, the school action program sits within a broader bunch program. The relationship between the bunch and school planning and organisation will be different for each bunch, depending on local conditions. Supporting actions: These are actions that are indispensable for the planning and execution of alteration enterprises to be successful. For illustration, experience has shown that organisational agreements such as time-tabling and room allotment must be attended to. Strategic coverage within and beyond the immediate school/cluster community can significantly heighten support for the plan and the committedness of the squad. Infrastructure support: Implementing the alteration procedure assumes and depends upon a set of meshing constructions to back up schools and bunchs. These include: aˆ? support from DE & A ; T and critical friends who work with the school, supplemented by bunch and regional web agreements including workshops aˆ? entree to local expertness, including the Cluster Coordinator aˆ? tools such as interviews and questionnaires for rating aˆ? professional development through preparation workshops for PoLT ( Principles of Learning and Teaching ) and Cluster Coordinators, the PoLT modular and on-line Professional Learning resources, and other professional development support provided by the PoLT and/or Cluster Coordinator. Within the School Accountability and Improvement Framework, schools are encouraged to reflect on their current organisational sustainability, along with their current operations and patterns, to place and develop the cardinal schemes required to accomplish the coveted pupil results. At the bosom of the new model is a set of inquiries that will help schools to concentrate rating and planning procedures on improved results for all pupils: 1. What results are we seeking to accomplish for our pupils? 2. Where are we now? 3. What do we hold to make to accomplish the results we want? 4. How will we pull off our resources to accomplish these results? 5. How will we cognize whether we are accomplishing these results? The planning stage is critical to the success of the undertaking in the school. Developing an action program requires considerable idea and attending, and will likely take a full term in the school twelvemonth to finish. The chief stairss in developing the action program are:aˆ? scrutinizing acquisition and instruction patterns in the schoolA scope of information is collected from pupil studies, teacher interviews, analyses of the school course of study and resources, PoLT squad procedures and relevant policies and enterprises in the school. This information will concentrate treatment on appropriate waies to take.aˆ? reviewing and prioritisingThe cardinal issues are analysed and enterprises and ends are identified.aˆ? developing and composing the action programThe PoLT action program should stipulate a scope of actions to be taken by the PoLT Coordinator and instructors at assorted times during the execution procedure to reply these inquiries and better acquisition and in struction. PoLT action planning will be an built-in portion of the School Strategic Planning procedure.Memoranda – LetterssBeloved Parents and Friends:As the new Principal of High School, it has been my sincere pleasance and award to go a member of this great school community. High School enjoys a rich history of academic and cultural excellence that is the consequence of a collegial partnership between the school staff and parents who provide a diverseness of experiences for the pupils. During my first hebdomads in the territory, I have so found this close working relationship and concentrate upon what is best for kids to be. I am genuinely honored to be appointed to this place and am looking forward to working with the dedicated staff to supply the best possible educational plan for our pupils. Before coming here, my professional calling was wholly within the XYZ School for many old ages. I held the places of instructor, chief, staff trainer of engineering, and cardinal office decision maker. I am really aroused to be a portion of the High School household and to closely work with everyone to do our school even better. My greatest enterprise is to supply the leading that will ease a school environment to supply differentiated direction to run into the demands of each pupil to the best of our ability. The educational plan must be academically ambitious, prosecute each pupil by associating the course of study to old cognition and experience, and besides be exciting to advance farther geographic expedition of new thoughts. Parents, instructors, support staff, and disposal all have an of import function to promote our kids to go active scholars. It is my sincere desire to supply expanded chances for our pupils to get the accomplishments to go productive citizens in a immensely altering society. Through a stopping point and collegial partnership with everyone associated with High School, I am confident we can do our school an even a better topographic point for our pupils to larn and turn. Respectfully, PrincipalBeloved Teachers/Students/Parents,Let me be the first to state Welcome back to school! † And, if this is your first twelvemonth at High School, Welcome to our school! † I am honored to be the Principal for High School! As many of you already know, my name is ABC decision maker. Bing selected as the new High School Community Schools is exciting. I must state I choose to come here because of the fantastic staff and pupils that make up this school territory. For our pupils † was besides a finding factor. I want you to experience welcome to halt by school whether it ‘s to volunteer, hold tiffin with your kid, or merely state hello. I believe it is of import for your kids to and I will work hard to do certain that happens. You will often happen me at tiffin with the pupils or in schoolrooms throughout the school. I hold myself accountable for being a seeable presence in the schoolrooms, hallways, and extra-curricular events. My hope is that you and your ki d will happen me as accessible and easy to talk to and that you wo n't waver to reach me if you of all time have inquiries, concerns, or you merely want to portion good intelligence about our school or your kid. I would wish to shut by one time once more stating you how much I am looking forward to working with the parents, pupils, and staff at High School. Thank you for the chance to work with your kids. I am genuinely esteemed. Sincerely, High School Principal

Billabong Case Study

Introduction Billabong International Limited (BBG) produces surf wear, sports apparel and accessories for the surf, skate and snowboard markets (Macquarie, 2012). The firm recorded an 18. 4% decrease in net profit to A$119. 1 million in 2011 (Billabong Shareholder Review 2010/2011). After intense acquisition efforts, which saw Billabong buying over 11 brands (Appendix A), the company was forced to undergo a major restructuring, closing 150 stores and cutting 400 jobs worldwide (AAP, Feb 2012).The report will be analyzing the Billabong brand, specifically its surf wear in Australia, to identify the underlying crucial issues that must be addressed. Current opportunities and threats that Billabong can leverage on will be prioritized, then weighed against the firm’s internal strengths and weaknesses in order to increase sales. Solutions in line with Billabong’s mission of striving to set new benchmarks through youthful lifestyle brands and experiences will be explored. Situ ation Analysis & Problem IdentificationTo identify the key issues and opportunities that Billabong is facing, an analysis was conducted on the following five areas. Appendix B shows the consolidated list of issues Billabong faces. 1. Customers (Appendix C) The Customer Experience Cycle was used to identify key opportunities such as improving the Purchase context through greater interactivity with customers. Another opportunity was to promote an eco-friendly way to dispose of used products while gaining rewards. 2. Competitors and Context (Appendix D, E & F)A PEST analysis of the Australian market reveals a demographic shift to the under -15s market (Euromonitor 2012), which was an opportunity for Billabong to target. Using Porter’s Five Forces (Appendix E), a Positioning Map and Competitor Threat Analysis (Appendix F) to analyse the boardsport industry confirmed that competition from a few big surf brands was high and that all had a strong brand following and highlighted the need to differentiate its products from them. 3. Company (Appendix G) The Balanced Scorecard was used to measure Billabong’s performance.They had high brand awareness of 86% in Australia but a lower conversion rate of 46% (Billabong 2012), which presents an opportunity to target those already aware of Billabong. 4. Collaborators (Appendix H) Billabong has yet to explore the opportunity to â€Å"unsource†, allowing for customer collaborations in designing boardshorts. Another area to explore could be coopetition with surf brands to tackle problems which affect the surf wear industr y. Through an opportunity and threat matrix, the consolidated lists of issues were prioritized. Opportunity Matrix Threat MatrixThose with the highest probability of success and attractiveness in the Opportunity Matrix and those with highest probability of occurrence and seriousness in the Threat Matrix were taken into consideration as key issues. Those chosen were the most pressing issues th at Billabong would be able to address with a good chance of success. Key Issues/Opportunities Key Objectives Undifferentiated surf wear products To produce a new product line that is among competitors not available by other surf wear brands by 2013. Low conversion rate despite high brand To increase conversion rate to 52% and awareness brand loyalty by 7% by 2014.Surf wear is declining in popularity as a To revive the popularity of surf wear as form of casual apparel due to increasing casual wear and increase sales by 10% availability of cheaper alternatives from the 34% of Active Lifestyle consumers. Australians are increasingly To create an environmentally friendly environmentally conscious product range by end of 2012. Shifting demographics to under 15s Create activities for consumers under 15s to garner 50% brand awareness by 2014. Solution Scenarios & Implications Solutions to the identified key issues/opportunities were gathered from the Active SWOT, ERRC Grid and CEC (Appendi x I, J, C).The What if analysis (Appendix K) was used to consolidate the solutions. Active SWOT Scenario 1 Building a new Billabong Customer Experience Key Issues Addressed With the main objective of increasing conversion rate by 6%, Billabong physical stores will be revamped to offer 1. Low conversion rate despite a new surf experience for customers. high brand awareness The Sense Value, from the CEC, is an important factor 2. Undifferentiated surf wear products among competitors 3. Shifting demographics to under 15s in the retail experience as stimulating the five senses causes it to be memorable and engaging.As identified in the ERRC grid, Billabong Surf Villages will be constructed at popular surf beaches to be closer to potential customers. A surf school will be created to give under 15 year old customers surfing lessons and to introduce them to Billabong’s products through a starter kit. Interactivity and a multisensory experience in physical stores will be implemented through surfboard simulators so that customers can try how their apparel feels like while surfing. Surf enthusiasts will be hired as sales associates to spread the passion of surfing to customers and to increase retail expertise – a weakness highlighted in he Active SWOT. Scenario 2 Differentiating Billabong’s surf wear products Key Issues Addressed Differentiate Billabong’s surf wear through value adding rather than reducing price. Reversible boardshorts (one 1. Undifferentiated surf wear products among competitors side featuring a formal design and the other a fun design) will be introduced as a main differentiating point from competitors in the market. Low conversion rate despite high brand awareness To capitalise on the individuality of surfers, their Self Esteem Value, customization of apparel will be 3. Surf wear is declining in popularity as a form of casual ntroduced through Billabong’s e-commerce site and boutique stores. apparel due to increasin g availability of cheaper To create exclusivity and reduce over-supply, Billabong alternatives can reduce the quantity per collection and increase the frequency of collections to keep up with trends. Collaborations with well known fashion designers, celebrities or pro surfers can be explored for limited edition ranges. Billabong can introduce a customer innovation platform, where customers give feedback or submit designs through their e-commerce site and physical stores. This ensures that styles remain relevant. A CRM system can e installed to track customers’ purchases and predict successful collections. Scenario 3 Incorporating Environmental Sustainability to achieve a competitive advantage Key Issues Addressed 1. Australians are increasingly environmentally conscious Billabong will either engage in a coopetition with a supplier or competitor to invest in green research and development for the surf wear industry. The brand can also rely on its strength of superior research and 2. Undifferentiated surf wear development skills highlighted in the Active SWOT. products among competitors An innovative way to engage customers and 3. Surf wear is declining in ifferentiate themselves from competitors in the popularity as a form of casual Disposal Context (from the CEC) is to launch an apparel due to increasing environmental disposal programme for Billabong availability of cheaper wetsuits and boardshorts. It would allow customers to alternatives recycle their used ones in exchange for a discount on their next purchase. Billabong could adopt a green approach from business practices to the design of the physical retail outlets. These solutions would motivate environmentally conscious consumers to purchase their products even if it is more expensive than casual wear alternatives.Scenario 4 Transformational Strategy Key Issues Addressed Billabong aims to focus on product and experience to 1. Undifferentiated surf wear products among competitors appeal to the acti on sports core and active lifestyle segment (Billabong, 2012). It will focus on simplifying its business by cutting down on style duplications and Low conversion rate despite leverage on the Billabong brand to translate the high brand awareness customer experience across channels including their ecommerce and physical store. Customer insights research will be undertaken. Customer driven innovation capability will also be mplemented. Its retail stores will be revamped to be more customer centric and retailing IT systems will be updated to gather more customer insights through its point of sales. The lack of retail expertise will also be addressed. Recommendation & Justification This matrix helps prioritize which of the 4 scenarios from Billabong is more urgent and which would have a greater impact upon the company. We can see that Scenario 2 is rated high in urgency and high in potential impact. Therefore it is recommended that Billabong conduct a detailed planning and implementation of this scenario immediately.This is urgent because Billabong’s product line is the core of it’s business; if it’s products are not attractive, creating other strategies should be secondary. Furthermore, a Risk and Return Analysis (Appendix L) on the recommended solution shows that the returns are much higher than the risks involved. Surf wear brands look similar due to limited styles. Customers have low switching costs and can easily purchase another surf brand or fast fashion brand. However, with differentiated products such as reversible boardshorts, Billabong offers greater value at its existing price.Furthermore, differentiated products would lead to an increased conversion rate among customers once they see the value in purchasing Billabong’s products over others. Costs incurred to manufacture such boardshorts are high; a budget of $1. 5 million was allocated. Several factors that Billabong has to consider are the specialised equipments, hygiene (i . e. shorts must be safe and clean to be worn on both sides in the same day) and materials used. In addition, Billabong will introduce customization services at it’s boutique stores and ecommerce platform to appeal to customers’ individuality.By being able to customize their surf wear, customers would find greater value in their purchase versus off -the-rack. To ensure Billabong apparels are trendsetters, quantity per collection will be limited to 500 pieces per design. With that, Billabong can introduce more collections per year aligning with current trends. By limiting quantity, it ensures Billabong inventory moves quickly before the season changes. This reduces the risk of selling excess inventory through heavy discounting (Walters 2012) and obsolete products.Billabong will introduce a new product line by 2013, the limited edition collection, which will be available for sale in Billabong’s boutiques only. These collections feature collaborations with fashion designers and pro surfers. Quantity will be limited to 300 pieces throughout Australia to ensure exclusivity. Such collaborations are likely to cost Billabong $3. 5 million. However, the returns are much higher as the limited quantity encourages customers to make purchases faster. To facilitate customer participation, Billabong can introduce a platform to collect customers feedback on what they would like to see in the upcoming collections.A Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system will be installed at sales points to track customers purchases and best selling apparel in order to launch similar successful collections in near future. Although the remaining three scenarios solve similar problems i. e. undifferentiated surf wear products amongst competitors, however, the returns as seen in KPI measurement below would enable Billabong to achieve its key objective of increase of 6% conversion rate and 7% increase of brand loyalty through the various initiatives. Objectives Measures Target Initiatives (actions Budget (in (KPI) (Current) ased on scenario planning) $) Financial 1. Monthly 1. Increase 1. Launch 1 new 1. $70,000 Perspective sales profit sales by collection each 15% by 2015 month, instead of the 1. Increase in current plan of revenue launching new collections once every 3 months. 2. Decrease 2. Operational 2. Reduce 2. Lock in several costs expenses costs by main suppliers to gain 2. $800,000 10% by 2015 EOS Customer 1. Brand loyalty 1. Repeated Perspective conversion rate purchases 1. Track 1. $500,000 purchases using CRM system 1. Increase in brand loyalty 2. Improve brand 2. Market brand 2. Increase 2. Exclusivity of perception arket Billabong’s products shares by (Limited edition line) shares 2. $1,000,000 15% by 2015 3. Improve 3. Customer 3. Increase product offerings Satisfaction rate satisfaction rate by 10% 3. Value-added 3. $2,500,000 product – reversible shorts by 2015 Capabilities 1. Number of 1. Increase 1. Customers persp ective customized by 15% by collaborators / Mass 1. $850,000 products 2015 customization 2. Delivery 2. Percent of 2. Reduce 2. Invest in quality quality product failures product management control / rejections failure by 1. Customization 2. $600,000 20% by 2015 Innovation 1. Number of 1. Implement 1.Introduce a Perspective feedback from 15% of platform to collect customers that customer customers’ feedback 1. Usage of Billabong feedback customer’s implemented feedback 1. $500,000 Conclusion To be able to differentiate its product offering would give Billabong a competitive edge over the few big players in the market who have all been competing on the same dimensions for the past decade. The focal point is to understand consumers through the CRM system and the information is crucial in order to design products and activities that appeal to them; increasing conversion rate and building loyalty to Billabong.By keeping its mission statement in mind of continuously setting a new standard in board sports through youthful lifestyle brands and experiences, the brand will be able to increase sales by selling the right product and offering the best experience. (2096 words) Appendix Appendix A: Sub Brands under Billabong International Sub Brand Description Element A line of shoes for technical skate footwear and for girls. Von Zipper Eyewear, accessories and premium apparel targeting the boardsports and general action sports sectors. Kustom Surf inspired footwear brand.Palmers Surf Surf hardware brand specialized in the manufacturing of surfboard wax and surfing accessories, including deck grip and legropes. It also offers an apparel range of t-shirts, boardshorts and walkshorts, as well as workwear. Honolua Surf Inspired by the iconic Hawaiian waterman and has a strong presence Company in Hawaii. Nixon Offers watches and accessories. Xcel Offers specialty wetsuits and a sun protective product line. Tigerlily Markets swimwear and apparel products in Austra lia. Sector 9 Skateboard brand specializing in skate longboards. DaKine Engages in the design and development of technical bags and ccessories for the surf, skate, snowboard, ski, mountain bike, windsurf and kite disciplines. RVCA Lifestyle brand offering apparel in the action sports category. Appendix B: Consolidated table of issues/opportunities identified Opportunity Customer Increase consumers’ sensory experience by creating a Billabong Surf Village. Increase relational and selfexpansion value by hiring surf enthusiasts to impart knowledge to customers and increase sense of belonging. Encourage a personalised experience by introducing a CRM system which caters to individual customer preferences. Introduce a simulated surf machine into selected retail utlets to increase element of fun and adventure; entertainment value. Raise status value of Billabong products by increasing exclusivity; create limited edition items. Threat Emphasize customers’ individual identities through customization of boardshorts. Create an incentive for customers to dispose of their Billabong products in an environmentally friendly manner. Launch a tradein program where customers may exchange their old boardshorts for a discount on a new pair. Context Value add Billabong’s products Lower buyer confidence and their surfer experience on affects discretionary spending other avenues beyond price reating price conscious differentiation. consumer New market of customers under- Demographic shift decreases 15s the usual 15-39 years old sports consumption age group. Increasing convergence of surf Increasing convergence of wear and casual clothing leads surf wear and casual clothing to opportunities for greater leads to threat of substitute differentiation among surf brands Body size shift and high Surfwear is decreasing in concerns of Body Image leads to popularity and fashionability a trend towards end-user (due to moving trend) customization and innovative shapewear. Gro wing environmental Government support, GST tax onsciousness among reprieve, stronger Australian Australians and the growth of eco dollar and better network and ethical clothing brands infrastructure give rise to more e-tailer competitors who offer lower prices and the ability to do price comparison. Innovations in green surf wear technology and creation of sustainable materials Growth of m-commerce and proliferation of smartphones leads to new retail formats A real driver for growth in the Australian luxury goods market from ordinary middle-class Australians shows an opportunity for collaboration with luxury fashion brands. Competitors Little differentiations between roducts leads to low switching cost and lower brand loyalty Little differentiations between surfer experience provided by Billabong, Quiksilver and Hurley Surfwear and other offshore e-tailers poses a strong threat as online buying becomes more popular with Australian customers. â€Å"Windows shoppers† who are on line shoppers who try products in physical shop with the intention to buy from an offshore e-tailer. To introduce customer customisation and more innovative surf wear technology into product range Collaborator Customer collaboration through â€Å"Unsourcing† allowing peer-to-peer support among user or through esign collaboration (The Economist 2012) Supplier Collaboration through collaboration with green supplier for new sustainable materials and green technology like ecosupreme suede to be incorporated into Billabong products Competitor Collaboration to tackle problems which affects the surf wear industry in general – to increase overall interest in the surfing culture or environmental isssues Company High brand awareness, low conversion rate. Convert remaining 54% of those already aware of Billabong into customers. Cut down on number of designs, Designs not catering to focus on those popular with consumers needs customers.Re-evaluate which designs are favoured by mar ket. Cut down number of suppliers in order to achieve economies of scale. Appendix C: Customer Experience Cycle The Customer Experience Cycle (CEC) explains Billabong’s current value proposition and the proposed improvements. Fig 1: Customer Experience Cycle Billabong’s existing value proposition (red dots): Search Context ? Functional Value: W hen searching for information about Billabong, customers would desire a website that provides all that they need in one place, so as to achieve their objective easily. Billabong provides a comprehensive website that fulfills this. Sense Value: Customers would like an interactive experience when searching for information as it would make things more interesting and break the monotony. ? Linking Value: Customers would appreciate having a place that connects them to other people who may provide information to them. Billabong currently has platforms such as Facebook which facilitate this. ? Entertainment Value: Since Billabong is se lls apparel, customers who search are likely to be searching leisurely, and not for urgent purposes. As such, they would enjoy having a fun website which provides information while also being engaging.Billabong uploads videos of their team of surfers, which engages the customers. ? Convenience Value: Information about Billabong is easily obtained online through its website or at any retail outlet in Australia. Purchase Context ? Functional Value: Billabong’s retail outlets and it’s e-commerce platform provide customers with the features needed to purchase their products, which achieves the desired outcome of buying new products from Billabong. ? Confidence Value: W hen purchasing Billabong products online, customers desire for it to be safe and reliable, without the risk of having their credit card details stolen.Billabong certifies its e-commerce platforms to be safe, using online security programs Mcafee Secure and Norton Secured to protect consumers. ? Convenience V alue: It is important for customers to be able to purchase Billabong’s products quickly and easily. For it to be convenient, a store selling their products should be easily accessible. Billabong owns 287 stores in Australasia (Billabong 2012), even if 50% were in Australia alone, that would be 143 stores, not including its wholesale outlet. This indicates that it should be easy for a consumer to find a store selling Billabong products near to where they are.Purchasing online makes it even more convenient to purchase Billabong products. Use Context ? Functional Value: Billabong’s products must be able to fulfill the basic purpose that the consumer bought it for. An example would be that boardshorts should be lasting and comfortable to wear, as expected of surf wear. Billabong has been known for its high quality products (Billabong 2012), which indicates that customers are satisfied with the function of their products. ? Linking Value: Billabong customers want to be asso ciated and be part of the Billabong’s community which brings surfers together.Billabong does this well through various surf events such as Billabong Pipe Masters and Australian Open of Surfing (Billabong 2012). Their Facebook page is also a platform for customers to network with each other. ? Confidence Value: Billabong customers desire to have apparel that can withstand the rough water and weather conditions; reliable surf wear that can be worn repeatedly. As mentioned, Billabong has been known for its high quality products which satisfy customers. Billabong’s proposed value proposition (blue dots) Search Context ?Relational Value: In order to increase a sense of belongingness when customers begin to search for Billabong products, they could start a customer collaboration. Unsourcing: An online forum controlled by Billabong, with contributions by customers. They could share about their experience with Billabong products and recommend what to buy (The Economist 2012). Billabong could also hold contests where customers design boardshorts, with the winning design being produced and sold in retail outlets. Customers would feel a part of the Billabong family as they contribute towards the brand. It also helps Billabong to understand what customers want.Purchase Context ? Sense Value: W hen a retail environment stimulates the five senses, it would become a memorable experience for customers. Billabong could open a Surf Village by the beach, where there are a combination of retail outlets, eateries and surf classes are held. Having retail outlets by the sea would also enhance the sight, sound and smell of the Billabong surf experience. ? Relational Value: Store assistants should be friendly and able to hold a conversation with customers. Towards high-value customers, they should be able to greet the person by name. This would cause customers to feel a sense of belonging. Self-Esteem Value: Billabong could adopt a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system, whereby it tracks purchase history of individual customers. When customers login to the e-commerce platform, the system could provide personalised suggestions for each customer based on their purchase history. It would make the customer feel valued and become a personalised experience. ? Entertainment Value: Customers would enjoy a fun experience while shopping at the retail outlet. A simulated surf machine could be placed in selected outlets to entice customers to surf, leading to higher conversion rates.It would be fun and also a way to attract more people to learn surfing. ? Self-Expansion Value: In order to facilitate customer’s learning experience, Billabong could hire surfer enthusiasts to work as store assistants. Their job would be to engage customers in conversation about surfing skills and knowledge, also to pass on the passion of surfing to customers. Another idea would be to include a surfing school in Billabong’s Surf Village, where newcomers are w elcome to take lessons. Every purchase of a pair of Billabong boardshorts could entitle a customer to a discounted price for a surf esson. Hence, customers would be encouraged to participate in the surfing experience. Use Context ? Status Value: As Billabong’s target market consists of aspirational surfers as well as actual surfers, they would value clothes that speak of their â€Å"surfer status†. Billabong could aim to raise its status value through sponsorships of surf-related movies. Strong Billabong brand placement could be used in the cast’s wardrobe, accessories and filmed in it’s retail outlets. Billabong could also produce limited edition apparel, which only sells for a short season.This would increase it’s exclusivity as a brand and as a result, increase its status. ? Self-Esteem Value: Customers value experiences that emphasize their individual identity. In response to this value, Billabong could create a platform for customization of bo ardshorts and other surf apparel. It could be designed on Billabong’s website then submitted online, or at the actual retail outlet itself, where computer terminals are available for customers to design the clothes. Wearing clothes that are customized yet branded would increase the customer’s sense of identity as an individual. Disposal Context Price Value: If customers were able to obtain a cash discount when disposing of their old surf apparel, they would make the effort to do so. Billabong could launch a program where customers trade-in their old surf apparel for a discount on their next purchase. ? Self-Esteem Value: Australians pride themselves in being environmentallyfriendly, therefore, being able to recycle their surf wear would appeal to them as it emphasizes their identity. ? Convenience Value: The recycling surf wear program must be convenient for customers as well, so that it can be done quickly without much effort.Recycling bins could be made available in the shops and customers would allowed to trade in shorts at any of Australia’s many Billabong outlets. ? Self-Expansion Value: The recycling project would boost customer’s learning experience and be a new initiative for many. They would learn how to properly dispose of their surf wear through a novel programme. APPENDIX D: PEST Analysis General Industry Analysis – Billabong Forces (Australia) Implications Political / Legal ? Push for online retail ? presence Domestic brick-and-mortar retailers must adapt to multi- Australian Retailers channel retailing to stayAssociation (ARA) is pushing competitive. local retailers to adopt an online store or upgrade their ? Rise of local and foreign current online or mobile internet retailers with wide presence to facilitate range of surf brands as product, location and strong competitors. opening hour searches (Euromonitor 2012) ? Carbon Taxes ? Australia is set to introduce a Australia has obligations tax on carbon emission in under the Climate Change July 2012 which taxes Convention and the Kyoto companies as well as rail Protocol to reduce its transport and domestic carbon footprint aviation for each tonne of Euromonitor 2012) to CO2 emitted. encourage Australia to move towards a clean energy ? future. Apparel industries in Australia are unlikely to be liable however they will feel an indirect impact through various increasing costs, namely through freight and electricity costs. ? There is growing consumer scrutiny of the processes used to manufacture and source products. ? Green Sustainability ? industry is to align green The Green Party in Australia credentials with value-for- is today a significant political money fashion. force (Euromonitor 2012). ? Tariff Barriers Australian governments ontinued protection of the domestic clothing and The challenge for apparel ? Trade tariff barriers on foreign export increase the price of goods produced by Billabong’s foreign manufacturing industry throu gh the maintenance of (Hawaiian Island Surf & tariff barriers (TPJ Sport) and Californian International 1999) ? competitors – Hawaiian (Pacific SunWear). No GST Taxes on imported ? Online channels will become goods a more popular shopping Online shoppers have won a choice due to savings from reprieve from goods and taxes and stronger Australian services tax (GST) on dollar. More local retailers mported goods worth less have to catch up with an than A$1,000 (US$1,030). online presence. Economic ? Weaken Consumer’s ? Creating a price-conscious consumption – price being a Confidence Severe floods, the global more important determinant economic downturn and with consumers spending less increased unemployment on clothing by looking for rate – from 0. 1% to 5. 2% cheaper options. (Australian Bureau of Statistics 2012) have ? Rise of value clothing made weaken consumer’s available via cheap imports confidence affecting from China or online channels. discr etionary spending. ? Many Australian retailers use xtensive and prolonged sales ? Spend per capita and activity to coax customers back volume per capita declined which might not be sustainable between 2005 and 2010 in the long run. (Euromonitor 2012). ? Appreciation of the ? Australian dollar Offshore retailers are of interest to local consumers due With an increase of about to appreciation of the 31% against the US dollar Australian dollar and the (April, 2012). 1. 00AUD = relatively lower prices available 1. 05526USD (XE, 17 Sep on surf apparels abroad. 2012) Social ? Thrifty Characteristics of ? Rise in price-conscious consumption – consumers want the Australians he best possible value for their Despite the strong economy, a purchases. consumer sentiment survey conducted by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) ? This includes measures such as revealed that Australian waiting for the next inevitable shoppers were among the most worried and financially wave of industry-wide pri ce insecure in the Developed slashing, purchasing fewer items World, with many planning or seeking value offerings additional reductions in their through mass merchandisers, discretionary spending shifting down to a lower price (Euromonitor 2012). band. ? ? Consumers seek clothing suited Body Image o all body shapes and sizes. According to a survey Garments that flatter and conducted by Mission compliment a range of body Australia on 30,000 under-25 types are a crucial aspect of the participants – Body Image is trend towards end-user apparently the number one customization. concern for young Australians, ahead of the environment and family issues. ? Shift in average body size ? Sportswear have great potential Men in Australia are also for design features that cater to undergoing a body size shift. larger body sizes, with The average male weight innovations in shapewear and rose from 77. 4kg in 1989-1990 ther performance-enhancing to 83. 6kg in 2004-2005 support garments. (Eur omonitor 2012). Weight gain is not just due to ? Compression sporting garments fat, with muscle bulk deemed are likely to drive growth in desirable by many â€Å"Aussie sportswear as consumers blokes. † become better informed about their benefits for optimum muscle performance and recovery. ? Demographic shift ? Critically, there will be a squeeze As seen in fastest-growing age on the traditionally core 15-39 band over the coming decade year old sports consumption age will be the over-65s, followed band. by the under-15s (Euromonitor 012). ? Sporting Culture ? Apparel items can provide a key Sporting activities play a incentive to participating in central role in Australian physical activity and sports. This cultural life signifies a growing need for well- Australians are currently designed and correctly-fitting encouraged to adapt simple, clothing which enhance everyday changes for better performance as well as injury health as part of the â€Å"Measure prevention. Up† nationwide public awareness campaign (Euromonitor 2012) ? Extreme sports/expeditions ? Specialist apparel is facing challenge to merge consumer is currently ranked as no. 10 nterest in sport with growing in a Euromonitor demand for value fashion as International from FDS seen in the example of Stella International's â€Å"Supporting McCartney has a line of Sport† survey as one of the sportswear with Adidas. top 10 self reported sports interest (Euromonitor 2012). ? Beach Culture ? Australian male has always prided himself on being laid back With the vast majority of and casual, this impulse has Australians living within a short been replaced among many by distance from the beach, the an urge to succeed and reflected influence of the beach culture by the greater demand for suits, s significant, particularly in dress shirts and ties. However Sydney and up the east coast there must be strong emphasis of Queensland. This was on how price conscious their reflected by Australian fashion tastes tended to consumers spending of A$29 become. per capita spending on swimwear (Euromonitor 2012). ? Dressing Down ? Euromonitor (May 2012) also Inexpensive, everyday fashion has steadily become the primary revealed trends of Australians type of fashion purchased by dressing down in times of Australian shoppers. economic uncertainty. Australians are dressing down and filling their wardrobes with nexpensive, clothing, according to the AMP Capital Shopping Centres Shopping Intent Report (2012). ? Attitude to Luxury Products / Services ? There is a real driver for growth in the Australian luxury goods market coming from ordinary Research by American Express Business Insights published on fashion website middle-class Australians who are looking to splash out on something special. This shows fashioinmag. com appears to an opportunity for collaboration confirm the appeal of luxury with luxury fashion brands. products and services to a new group of luxury consumers, referred t o as the newcomers, who are not articularly rich but who are spending a lot in high-end fashion and restaurants (Euromonitor 2012). By 2010, newcomers‘ share of luxury spending represented 14% of the total luxury spending in Australia. ? Domestic Holidays ? Though there is a rising outbound tourism due to the Australia contains a wide appreciation of the Australian variety of holiday options dollar and cheap fares from low within its own borders making cost carriers, domestic holidays Domestic holidays typically are still more common involve visits to the rural and outnumbers the number of coastal areas that are in close oreign holidays taken by nearly proximity to Australia‘s major cities. ? nine to one (Euromonitor 2012). Given various choices for ? This reveals an opportunity to types of holidays, market boardsports as a tourism respondents ranked nature activity within Australia holidays, (beaches, especially in coastal areas like waterways, wilderness and Secret Har bour (Perth), Noosa wildlife) first in terms of (Sunsine Coast), Bondi Beach interest, followed by holidays (Sydney), Boomerang Beach involving relaxation, health (Pacific Palms) and many more and indulgence; (travelintelligence. com) entertainment, nightlife and hopping; arts, culture, history and heritage; and food and wine. ? Key principal motivations behind tourism includes ‘to get away from everyday life, and to do/experience something new’. Other motives also include ‘to master a skill’ and ‘to engage in challenging physical activities’ (Cooperative Research Centre for Sustainable Tourism) ? Eco – Consciousness ? among Australian Eco-friendly brands are tipped to show upbeat growth consumers over the next five years, albeit from a low base. Deadly bushfires in Southeastern Australia and prolonged periods of drought across the region have brought issues of climate