Financial strategies of the Confederacy vs. Union governments economic choices

Financial strategies of the Confederacy vs. Union governments economic choices While explaining the economic reality of the Confederacy in times of the Civil War, some fundamentals on the financial strategies of the Confederate and Union governments must be considered.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Financial strategies of the Confederacy vs. Union governments’ economic choices specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More One of the major points, which is to be taken into account, is the Confederacy’s inflation financing. Thus, one is to keep in mind that there is a direct interdependence between the economic strategies of the Confederacy and their military failure. On the other hand, effective financial choices of the Union are mostly associated with the so-called policy of combination. In other words, summing up loans, taxes and notes determined the success of Union governments’ military engagements. The Thesis Statement The analysis of the economic policy of the Confederacy in time s of the Civil War gives us an opportunity to understand how the government’s ability to secure resources to mobilize military forces influences the success of military engagement. The Body Raising Funds As The Government’s Most Important Step To Succeed As far as Southerners’ economic choices were mostly conditional, one can probably conclude that the major mistake of the Confederacy was that they failed in aggrandizement of federal power, when such opportunity was available. Taking into account the fact that the Confederate governments were mostly focused on states’ rights and slavery, one can suppose that their financial strategies were not static. It seems to be obvious that the government’s ability to raise funds, in order to support military strategies development as well as to reinforce administrative capabilities is extremely important for the war effort.Advertising Looking for essay on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get you r first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Of course, political incentives cannot be neglected, as they also influence financial choices. The Economic Choices Of The Confederacy And The Union The political basis of the Confederacy and the Union concerning war financing gives us an opportunity to trace back the interdependence between economic choices and military outcomes. One of the most important issues, which cannot be ignored, is that â€Å"the key decision-makers on both sides knew each other well from previous experience in Washington; and the military and financial strategies that had been employed throughout the ante-bellum period were common knowledge† (Razaghian 2). In other words, one can make a conclusion that the economic policies of the both sides had to be somewhat similar. In reality, the assumption, however, does not make any sense. It is necessary to remember that the success of the Union can be explained by the government’s right decision to adopt long-term financial strategies. The Confederacy, in their turn, lost time in effortless contemplation. It is a well-known fact that the Confederate government decided to leverage tax power, when such actions were not already necessary. According to Razaghian, the major mistake of the Confederacy was that â€Å"they relied on loans and non-interest bearing notes† (3), while the success of the North can be explained by its government’s decision to collect taxes.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Financial strategies of the Confederacy vs. Union governments’ economic choices specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The Importance Of The Key Political Interpretations Generally, there are many opinions on the reasons of the Confederacy’s failure. For instance, the viewpoint that â€Å"the Confederacy lost because of disagreements between Jeffersonian governors and an increasingly centralized r egime in Richmond† (Beringer et al. par. 2) is criticized by many historians, as the key political interpretations seems to be omitted. Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation And Its Meaning Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation is also to be highlighted, as it increased the chances of Union military victory. Thus, one is to keep in mind that the impact of proclamation was mostly positive, as the Union gained the support of the masses, including the African-American population. Moreover, it should also be pointed out that the inhaitants of both unoccupied and occupied territories provided the North with support. The Demands Of The War So, taking into consideration the financial policies of the sides, one can conclude that taxation can be regarded as the most appropriate strategy to succeed. However, there is a need to state that the demands of the war must be controlled. In other words, as far as the demands can be changed, the government is to react immediately. Thus , new demands require new financial policies to be adopted. For the Confederacy, the understanding that taxes had to be increased came too late. Thus, one of the members of the Confederate government stated: â€Å"We have been compelled to issue a large quantity of Treasury notes, when, perhaps, it would have been more to the true interest of the country to have resorted at first to high taxation† (â€Å"Southern Historical Society Papers† 458-459).Advertising Looking for essay on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The Conclusion Finally, it is necessary to point out that irrational and short-term economic choices of the Confederacy led to their failure in the Civil War. Immediate mobilization of military resources and reconsideration of certain economic requirements, however, cannot be regarded to be saving, as the North’s resources were more powerful. If the Confederate governments relied on taxation in time, the only effect they could achieve is to limit the resources of the North; although military success could not been gained anyway. It is the interdependence between political incentives and economic choices, which is of primary importance; as the incentives determine military outcomes. Beringer, Richard, Herman, Hattaway, Archer, Jones and William N. Still, Jr. Why the  South Lost the Civil War. Athens: The University of Georgia Press, 1986. Print. Razaghian, Rose. Financing the Civil War: The Confederacy’s Financial Strategy,  2004. â€Å"Southern Historical Society Papers.† New Number Series, 13 (1958):51. Print.

Find out What Mysticetes Are

Find out What Mysticetes Are The term  mysticete  refers to large whales that feed using a filtering mechanism made up of baleen plates. These whales are called mysticetes or baleen whales, and they are in the taxonomic group Mysticeti. This is one out of two major groups of whales, the other of which are the odontocetes or toothed whales. Introduction to Mysticetes Mysticetes are carnivores, but rather than feeding with teeth, they use a straining system to eat great quantities of small fish, crustaceans or plankton in one gulp. This is made possible by their baleen plates - fringed plates made of keratin that hang down from the whales palate in the upper jaw and are supported by its gums.    About Baleen Baleen plates resemble vertical blinds on the outside, but on the inside, they have a fringed edge, which is made up of thin, hair-like tubules. The hair-like tubules extend down on the inside of the whales mouth and are supported on their outside by a smooth, fingernail-like cortex. What is the purpose of this baleen? There are hundreds of baleen plates, and the fringe inside each overlaps to create a strainer that allows the whale to filter its food from the ocean water. To gather its food, the whale will gulp or skim the water, and pass the water in between the baleen plates, trapping the prey inside. By feeding this way, a mysticete can gather large quantities of prey but avoid swallowing much salt water.   Characteristics of Mysticetes The baleen is the characteristic that most defines this group of whales. But there are other things that set them apart from other whales. Mysticetes are generally large animals, and this group contains the largest species in the world - the blue whale. All mysticetes have: Baleen plates, which they use for feedingTwo blowholesSymmetrical skullLower jawbones that are solid and do not join in the middle In addition, female mysticetes are larger than males. Mysticetes vs. Odontocetes Mysticetes can be distinguished in the whale world from odontocetes. These whales have teeth, one blowhole, a skull that is asymmetrical and a melon, which is used in echolocation.   Odontocetes also have more variability in size. Rather than all being large or small, they range in size from under three feet to over 50 feet.   Mysticete Species There are 14 currently recognized species of mysticetes, according to the Society for Marine Mammalogy. Blue WhaleFin WhaleSei WhaleBrydes WhaleHumpback WhaleOmuras WhaleCommon  Minke WhaleAntarctic Minke WhaleBowhead WhaleNorth Atlantic Right WhaleSouthern Right WhaleNorth Pacific Right WhalePygmy Right WhaleGray Whale Pronunciation: miss-tuh-seat References and Further Information Bannister, J.L. Baleen Whales.  In  Perrin, W.F., Wursig, B. and J.G.M. Thewissen. Encyclopedia of Marine Mammals. Academic Press.  p. 62-73.Rice, D.W. 2002. Baleen.  In  Perrin, W.F., Wursig, B. and J.G.M. Thewissen. Encyclopedia of Marine Mammals. Academic Press.  p.61-62.

AUCA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

AUCA - Essay Example As the author puts it, Florence was a no gone city. Death almost became inevitable to all those who contracted the plague. Dead bodies spread all over the city until churches ran out of space for burying the dead bodies. The solution was to adopt mass graves. Neighbours avoided each other for the fear of contracting the diseases. In fact, some citizens decided to leave the city. It was simply devastating. However, Boccaccio’s choice to introduce his work by this vivid eyewitness account leaves a lot to question especially that the rest of the characters are fictional. In my view, Boccaccio’s decision to introduce Decameron with an eyewitness account was to give the narrative its setting, both time and place. It was certainly written in medieval period and in Florence. This eyewitness account was also to justify the reasons for his characters to leave their city and base their stories in another place. In addition, this eyewitness account serves to add credibility to the author’s stories. For example, it would have been very difficult for him to set grounds as to why the seven women and the three men had to leave their Florence into another city. Furthermore, since this society was traditionally patriarchal, it would have been so hard for Boccaccio to convince his readers the reason as to why the men decided to give up their powers so that they could be ruled by the women. Therefore, the eyewitness account served to exemplify how the plague affected the social set-up of the society such that there was even a reversal of gender roles. The story revolves around Saladin, an Islam sultan and Melchizedek who was a wealthy Jew. Saladin was both generous and easy to lead his people into war. This attributes caused his treasury to run short of money. Saladin only option was to approach Melchizedek in the hope that he would bail him from bankruptcy. Unfortunately, Melchizedek was miser and he would hardly lend Saladin

Improving Web Security Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Improving Web Security - Essay Example The security of passwords was not of as much worth decades ago as it is today and this is not the sole responsibility of the institutions/bodies that offer email or banking services etc. One must consider taking multiple measures in order to increase the strength of passwords and tighten the security. It is necessary to have the understanding of how the passwords are compromised despite high security algorithms deployed by respective institutions. The easiest way of tracing the passwords of people is to introduce agent software i.e. a spyware into their computer systems to monitor, record and transmit the details of each and every activity people perform including password entries at different sites. This happens through emails, chats and downloading form unauthentic websites like pornographic sites etc. A good internet security firewall installation can handle this situation quite effectively but the possibilities of breaches remain. One of the indications is that the computer syste m takes unusual time in processing usual transactions because of the added work that spywares perform. The other reasons of password compromise include the careless selection of passwords and their redundant usage at different forums to save the hassle of memorization. Sometimes it happens that the communication between the user and the respective body like bank is intercepted by introduction of a lookalike page instead. The users most of the times remain unable to figure out the differences in haste and deliver the actual information to the false page. Redundant passwords cause more damage as the leakage of just one, opens multiple personal horizons of a person’s life before the hackers and cyber criminals. IMPROVING CONTRIBUTIONS OF PASSWORD PROTECTION FOR INFORMAITON SECURITY The baseline of information security lies in the basic structure of the information system itself. The following steps, if taken for the better management of the system would be massive contributions to the improvement of password protection for information security. Information security is an iterative process. It is essential that this process must first be controlled; it should then be planned, implemented, evaluated and maintained. CONDUCTION OF RISK ANALYSIS The use of risk analysis identifies the security requirements of the IT Customers. IMPROVING MINIMUM SECIRUTY BASELINE The feasibility of the requirements assessed in the risk analysis should be compared with the current security assessment and implementation structure of the organization. CONSTRUCTION OF SLA. SLA or Service level agreement between the customers dealing with an organization and the IT management of the company is required to be made. This agreement defines the measurable terms of the information security requirements. It also contains details of the specification of this achievement. OLAs Operational Level Agreements provide the detailed instructions of the implementation of the information security Req uirements. These instructions are negotiated and defined. SLA AND OLA IMPLEMENTATION The successful implementation of the SLA and OLA are done. The regular outcomes of the implementation at every transaction done are monitored. Repots about their outcomes are shared with the customer. The feedback from the customers leads to modification of the implemented information secur

Approaches And Methods Of Training Management Essay

Approaches And Methods Of Training Management Essay Training is a systematic process to develop knowledge, skill and attitude from learning experience to achieve maximum performance in an activity (Buckley and Caple 2007). Learning and education both are different but important for organisations. Learning is the process of acquiring knowledge, skills and attitudes by experience, reflection, study and instruction. While education is a series of activities which enables to develop knowledge, skills, values and understanding that allow a broad range of problem solving and analysis (Buckley and Caple, 2007). Training plays an effective role in different kinds of learning and development. The rapid change in global environment pressurized all organisations to enhance their focus on customers. That time of producing, conceiving and marketing products dropped as organisations adopted new ways to compete in the market (Capelli et al, 1997 cited in Rod and Collin, 2000). The successful organisations should have highly skilled and committed employees who can survive in this era of competition. Workers learn to enhance their performance and want to be more competent in their roles. Work place learning is very important after education to develop a long career (Legge, 2005). Organisations can get competitive advantage upon rivals through hiring skilled staff and through better training programs. According to Brookes (1995) organisations have to support training department and the least step is to appoint a dedicated staff in personnel for this task. It is important to make a training policy for the company and allocate specific budget for training. This all points to the fact that training and development is a prime business activity which has serious objectives and requires serious management (Nilson, 2003). There are a number of benefits for individuals as a consequence of training procedures; relative to the present positions, individuals may see job satisfaction increase as a result of undergoing training (Clements and Jones, 2002). Intrinsic satisfaction may result from being able to perform a task to a higher standard, where as extrinsic satisfaction may come as a result of increased job skills, which may lead to greater earnings, career prospects and promotion possibilities (Buckley and Caple, 2007). An obvious benefit to individuals is the change from their regular work pattern, which can have recreational benefits as well, for example, less boredom and greater variety during work (Buckley and Caple, 2007). Some of the benefits of training, from an organisations perspective included higher employee performance, productivity and possibly acting as a source of competitive advantage. There a number of other potential benefits to organisations of successful training procedures; decrease in wastage and increased productivity; lower labour turnover, saving costs (Rae, 2000); higher customer satisfaction, possibly leading to greater sales; shorter learning cycles for employees, reducing expenditure (Washington, 1995); lower absenteeism and fewer accidents (Buckley and Caple, 2007). The innovations in technology brought speedy change in business environment. Training plays a critical role for individuals at work to manage careers development and organisational change. Training and learning is a pivotal business function that maximise profit and the companys long term health (Nilson, 2003, P.2). The implementation of training plan depends on a lot of factors including the proper identification of training need and individuals recognition for training need (Reid et al, 2004). Proper learning and best utilization of resources equally effect on effective outcomes (Bramley, 1986). 2.1 Approaches to Training There are a number of approaches to train employees; the systematic approach is widely adopted in the organisations. However, the reactive and proactive approaches to training are still in use by some organisations. 2.1.1 Reactive Approach The reactive approach to training tends to be an approach adopted predominantly by less developed and/or smaller organisations; this does not tend to involve pre-planning, but can be seen as spontaneous to a certain degree (Legge, 2005). This approach to training turn into action when business performance and productivity falls or seems to drop beyond a suitable level; the organisation then attempts to configure training to counteract this downturn. In comparison, to the other approaches to training, the financial layout is therefore relatively small, since training expenditure is effectively being used when it is needed (Lundy and Cowling, 1996). This approach suits smaller organisations whose finances cannot afford comprehensive training programmes which are systematically planned and administered (Lundy and Cowling, 1996). 2.1.2 Proactive Approach The proactive approach to training is effective where Organisations are actively seeking ways for training to improve their business performance; when Organisations are looking not only to improve their current training methods, but also opportunities to extend training to wider segments of their organisation. Such an approach tends to be adopted by organisations that see training as important part of their business model and essential to gaining a competitive advantage (Schuler and Jackson, 2007). 2.1.3 Systematic Approach The Systematic Approach to training is by far the approach which has been given the most attention to in literature and research (Raffe, 2004- Bratton and Gold, 2003). It is also the theoretical approach which most organisations adopt thus it is often argued it is the most logical and most successfully effective in a practical sense (Raffe, 2004). The systematic approach to training effectively revolves around dividing the training process and procedures into stages and sub-stages. McNamara (2008) identifies the stages of basic systematic approach to training which are analysis, design, develop, implement and evaluate. Analysis: This stage involves the organisations needs and identification of training goals, and the strategies to equip trainees with knowledge and skills to meet the organisations objectives. Usually this stage also includes the identification of training timings and participants. Design: This stage involves making training procedures and systems that can allow objectives to be met and a system that learners and trainers can implement to meet the learning goals. This stage involves identifying learning objectives, required facilities, funding, etc. Thus planning skills are utilised heavily here in this stage (McNamara, 2008). Develop: This stage involves obtaining the necessary resources which will be required to put together the training package designed (McNamara 2008); for example, identifying premises, materials and resources which will be required and progressing to obtain and organise them. Implement: Implementation stage tends to involve putting the training package designed into practice. It includes a variety of tasks ranging from delivering the training, clarifying training materials, administrative processes and conducting a final evaluation. This phase can include administrative activities, such as copying, scheduling facilities etc. Evaluate: This stage involves assessing training prior to, during and after its duration. It can also involve a wide variety of tasks from testing attendees on what was taught during the training, to asking their opinions on the training (McNamara, 2008). 2.2 Methods of Training The training delivery methods can be divided into cognitive and behavioural approaches. Cognitive methods provide information orally or in written form, demonstrate relationships among concepts, or provide the rules for how to do something. They stimulate learning through their impact on cognitive processes and are associated most closely with changes in knowledge and attitudes. The lecture, discussion, e-learning and case studies are cognitive methods. The cognitive methods of training can influence skill development (referenceforbusiness.com). The behavioural methods allow the trainee to practice behaviour in a real or simulated fashion. They stimulate learning through experience and are best at skill development and attitude change. The equipment simulators, business games, role plays, the in-basket technique, behaviour modelling and, to some extent, case studies are behavioural methods. Both behavioural and cognitive methods can be used to change attitudes. On-the-job training is a combination of many methods and is effective at developing knowledge, skills, and attitudes. Source: www.referenceforbusiness.com 2.3 Types of training Training broadly categorized into two types i.e. pre-service training and in-service training. Pre-service training is more academic in nature and is offered by formal institutions following syllabuses for certain period to offer a formal degree or diploma. In-service training, on the other hand, is offered by the organisation from time to time for the development of employees skills and knowledge. 2.3.1 Pre-service Training Pre-service training is a process through which individuals are made ready to enter a certain kind of professional job. They have to attend regular classes in a formal institution and need to complete a definite curriculum and courses successfully to receive a formal degree or diploma. They are not entitled to get a professional job unless they receive a certificate, diploma, or degree from the appropriate institution. 2.3.2 In-service Training In-service training is a process of staff development for the purpose of improving the performance of an incumbent holding a position with assigned job responsibilities. It promotes the professional growth of individuals. It is a program designed to strengthen the competencies of extension workers while they are on the job (Malone, 1984). In-service training is a problem-centred, learner-oriented, and time-bound series of activities which provide the opportunity to develop a sense of purpose and increase capacity to gain knowledge and mastery of techniques. In-service training may be categorized into five different types: induction or orientation training, foundation training, on-the-job training, refresher or maintenance training, and career development training. Induction or Orientation Training: Induction training is given immediately after employment to introduce the new staff members with their positions. It begins on the first day the new employee is on the job (Rogers Olmsted, 1957). Induction training for all employees should develop an attitude of personal dedication to the service of people and the organisation. This kind of training supplements whatever pre-service training the new personnel might have had (Halim and Ali, 1988) concerning the characteristics of a new employee. According to Van Dersal (1962) when people start to work in an organisation, they are eager to know what sort of outfit they are getting into, what they are supposed to do, and whom they will work with. They are likely to be more attentive and open-minded than experienced employees. In fact, the most favourable time for gaining employees attention and for moulding good habits among them is when they are new to the job. Foundation Training: Foundation training is in-service training which is also appropriate for newly recruited employees. Besides technical competence and routine instruction about the organisation, every staff member needs some professional knowledge about various rules and regulations of the government, financial transactions, administrative capability, communication skills, leadership ability, coordination and cooperation among different institutions, report writing etc. Foundation training is made available to employees to strengthen the foundation of their service career. This training is usually provided at an early stage of service life. Maintenance or Refresher Training: Refresher training is offered to update and maintain the specialized subject-matter knowledge of the employees. Refresher training keeps the specialists, administrators, subject-matter officers, extension supervisors, and frontline workers updated and enables them to add to the knowledge and skills they already have. Maintenance or refresher training usually deals with new information and new methods, as well as review of older ones. This type of training is needed both to keep employees at the peak of their possible production and to prevent them from getting into a rut (Van Dersal, 1962). On-the-Job Training: The On-the Job training is ad hoc or regularly scheduled training, such as fortnightly training under the training and visit system .It is provided by the superior officer or the subject specialists to the field staff. This training is generally problem or technology oriented and includes formal presentations, informal discussion, and opportunities to try out new skills and knowledge in the specific field. The administrator or subject specialist of each department must play a role in providing on-the-job training to the staff while conducting day-to-day normal activities. Career or Development Training: This type of in-service training is designed to upgrade the knowledge, skills, and ability of employees to help them to perform greater responsibilities at higher positions. The career development training is arranged departmentally for successful employees at all levels, for their continuing education and professional development. According to Malone (1984) the extension services that provide the opportunity for all staff to prepare a plan for career training will receive the benefits of having longer tenured and more satisfied employees, which increase both the effectiveness and efficiency of an extension service. Malone (1984) also stated that career development is the act of acquiring information and resources that enables one to plan a program of lifelong learning related to his or her work life. The career or development training plays a key role when a junior staff member is promoted at a higher level. 2.4 Effectiveness of Training It can be difficult to assess how effectively an organisations training processes are (Price, 2007); people often see this will be represented by organisation profitability and its efficiency (Lundy and Cowling, 1996); however, such increases are difficult, since they can attributed to a variety of factors including increases in product demand, economic/political factors and demographic changes. Despite this, it is important that firms measure training effectiveness for a number of reasons. The most recognisable and frequently used model for measuring the effectiveness of training programs was developed by Donald Kirkpatrick in 1950(Bratton and Gold 2003; Kirkpatrick, 1959; Price, 2007). It has been adapted and changed by different academics, although the basic structure has well stood the test of time (Kirkpatrick, 1998). The basic structure of Kirkpatricks four-level model is illustrated below. Source: (ftknowledge.com) Fig 2: Kirkpatrick Model for Evaluating Effectiveness of Training Programs Evaluating each level of the model can highlight the strengths and weaknesses of any particular training program or procedure; despite the progressive level composition of the model, Kirkpatrick (1998) indicates that it is still possible for a training program to be effective at the higher levels while being ineffective at the lower levels; e.g. organisational performance (level 4) may be improving as a result of the training yet employees may not have an optimal attitude or reaction to it (level 1). This view is supported by previous studies (Stokking, 1996). It is necessary to explain and discuss each component of the model in detail. 2.4.1 Reaction Reaction evaluates how employees felt about the training (Kirkpatrick, 1998). It is necessary for training programme to be effective, that employees have a positive reaction to training. This may be in the form of enjoying or finding training interesting. If employees do not react or have positive attitudes towards the training, it is likely to affect its efficiency (Armstrong, 2006). It is important to evaluate how employees feel about training whether they like or dislike it and what they feel can be add to improve their reactions. Further aspects of this component which may need to investigated, involve assessing whether delegates felt the training was an effective use of their time, whether they felt the training was relevant and were they comfortable with and its different aspects (Kirkpatrick, 1998). This is sometimes done through feedback sheets, where the delegates are given the opportunity to convey their views (Kirkpatrick, 1998). 2.4.2 Learning The learning is the evaluation of the increase in knowledge prior to and after the training procedure (Kirkpatrick, 1959). The effectiveness of this component is dependent on whether employees learned what they were intended to be taught and to what degree did their knowledge increased. This can be measured through assessments prior to and after a training session taken place, although again a questionnaire can also be given to attendants monitoring whether they personally feel their knowledge has increased (Brookes, 1995). 2.4.3 Behavioural Change The behavioural change is the extent of applied learning when back on the job (Kirkpatrick, 1998), the implementation of any learning which may have taken place. This is necessary for the organisation to realize the practical benefit of the training undertaken by their employees. Measuring strongly revolves around questioning employees on whether they felt different and more prepared for their job, as a result of their training (Mckenna and Beech, 2002). Furthermore, delegates should also be questioned on the fact whether the change when working is noticeable and whether they have been utilizing the relevant skills learned, as a result of the training undertaken (Lundy and Cowling, 1996). 2.4.4 Organisational Performance The organisational Performance is the effect on the business environment, made by their trainee upon completion of their training (Kirkpatrick, 1998). It is typical measure in terms of key performance indicators such as volumes, values and percentages and other quantifiable aspects such as turnover, attrition, quality and profits. The measuring of organisational performance resulting directly from training can be a tedious and complex process. Kirkpatrick (1998) says this cannot be measured accurately without substantial investigation since external factors, away from the training, will have a huge impact on the aspects discussed. Investigating this is limited to questioning senior managerial personnel on the organisations performance in terms such aspects and how much of the improvements/falls can be given to the actual training (Lundy and Cowling, 1996). The weakness with this approach lies in the reliance on honesty of the managerial personnel questioned, as well as their judgment . The ideal would be to involve the wide variety of relevant quantitative figures (Kirkpatrick, 1998). 2.5 Criticism on Kirkpatrick Model Kirkpatricks model for evaluation of training is well-established and in widespread use. Many organisations find it useful and since its publication no better alternative has been suggested. It is however, some criticisms relating to the model itself and the assumptions upon which it is applied. There are some criticisms of Kirkpatricks model for evaluating effectiveness of training that have implications for the ability of training evaluation to deliver benefits in the interests of organisations. These include the incompleteness of the model, the assumption of causality, and the assumption of increasing importance of information. The model is incomplete: The Kirkpatricks model for evaluating effectiveness of training gives an oversimplified view of training effectiveness that does not consider individual or contextual influences in the evaluation of training. A broad stream of research over past two decades (Ford Kraiger, 1995; Salas Cannon-Bowers, 2001; Tannenbaum Yukl, 1992) has documented the presence of a wide range of organisational, individual, and training design and delivery factors that can influence training effectiveness before, during, or after training. This research has led to a new understanding of training effectiveness that considers characteristics of the organisation and work environment and characteristics of the individual trainee as crucial input factors (Cannon-Bowers, Salas, Tannenbaum, 1995). The contextual factors such as the learning culture of the organisation (Tracy, Tannenbaum, Kavanaugh, 1995), organisational or work unit goals and values (Ford, Quinones, Sego, Sorra, 1992), the nature of interpersonal support in the workplace for skill acquisition and behaviour change (Bates, Holton, Seyler, Carvalho,2000) the climate for learning transfer (Rouiller Goldstein,1993), and the adequacy of material resources have been shown to influence the effectiveness of training process. The Kirkpatricks model assumes that examination of these factors is not essential for effective evaluation of training. The assumption of causal linkages: Kirkpatricks model for evaluating effectiveness of training assumes that the levels of criteria represent a causal chain such that positive reactions lead to greater learning, which produces greater transfer and subsequently more positive results. Although Kirkpatrick is vague about the precise nature of the causal linkages between training outcomes, his writings do imply that a simple causal relationship exists between the levels of evaluation (Holton, 1996). In one of Kirkpatricks more recent publications he stated that if training is going to be effective, it is important that trainees react favourably and that without learning, no change in behaviour will occur (Kirkpatrick, 1994), research, however, largely failed to confirm such causal linkages. Incremental importance of information: Kirkpatricks model for evaluating effectiveness of training assumes that each level of evaluation provides data that is more informative than the last (Alliger Janak, 1989). This assumption has produced the perception among training evaluators that establishing level four results will provide the most useful information about training process effectiveness. Although there are some criticisms upon Kirkpatrick model for evaluating training effectiveness but this model is well suited in addressing the objectives of this research, which significantly focus on assessing if training problems exist, as well as training effectiveness and identifying potential improvements within bank. 2.6 Problems of Training Evaluation There are many problems which exist and can occur that can hinder the training process; these can vary strongly dependent on factors such as organisation type, training type, etc (Schuler and Jackson, 2007). To point out some of the common problems of the training process, the researcher has opted to use the components of Kirkpatricks model. Reaction: The common problem is that training may be boring, uninteresting and negatively seen by the employees; a positive reaction perception of training in the view of employees is important to the effectiveness of training. As with development aspects in general it is usually necessary for people to enjoy them or at the very least not dislike them, to be impressionable (Noe, 1998). Learning: The learning styles of employees can strongly affect the how much they can learn during training sessions. Honey and Mumford (1989) identify four styles of learning which outline ways to which an individual may be favoured to learning; these are activists, reflectors, theorists and pragmatists. Behavioural Change: Behavioural Change can be affected in numerous ways; this is the aspect which determines the extent to which the practical benefit of training is realized. The common problem which can prevent behavioural change being realized is that of a lack of relevance (Kirkpatrick, 1959). If the training undertaken by employees is not relevant to the skills required in their job then they are unlikely to change to a more effective way of working. The other main problems of effective behavioural change lie in the ability of the individuals to transfer any new skills they have learnt during training (Gibb, 2007). Organisational Performance: Training however successful at variety of levels may not necessarily translate into improved organisational performance; the variety of external factors affecting an organisations performance as well as individuals performance, can mean that even if the training is perfectly designed it may not lead to greater performance on a business level (Rod and Colin, 2000). There is fact that many training programs are focused on informing trainees as opposed to directly intending to improve their job performance (Gibb, 2007). 3.0 Research Methodology To obtain maximum output researcher has to devise an appropriate research strategy which will be beneficial for accurate results while analysing the data. Author elaborates the research methods and approaches which will be used in this investigation. An effective research can only conducted by using relevant strategies out of many and each of them can be used for exploratory, descriptive and explanatory research (Saunders, 2007). According to Deetz (1996) different modes of research allow us to understand different phenomena and for different reasons. The methodology chosen depends on what researcher is trying to do rather than a commitment to a particular paradigm (Cavaye, 1996). The methodology used must match the particular objectives of research. Different phenomena may require the use of different or a set of methodologies. By focusing on the phenomenon under examination, rather than the methodology, researchers can select appropriate methodologies for their enquiries (Falconer Mackay, 1999). 3.1 Research Paradigms The term paradigm is introduced by the Thomas Kuhn, he characterizes a paradigm as: An integrated cluster of substantive concepts, variables and problems attached with corresponding methodological approaches and tools (Kuhn, 1962).In the past century, different paradigms have introduced due to the remarkable growth in the research. There are two main paradigms to verify the theoretical propositions, i.e. positivism and anti-positivism. Positivism comprises on usage of natural science approach. Researcher prefers to work along with an observable social reality which results in making law similar to natural scientists (Remenyi et al, 1998,). This is useful for quantitative research with logics. An important factor of positivism approach is that research can go as far as possible and in a value free manner (Saunders, 2007). Although positivistic paradigm continued to influence educational research for a long time in the latter half of the twentieth century, it was criticized due to its lack of regard for the subjective states of individuals. It regards human behaviour as passive, controlled and determined by external environment. Hence human beings are dehumanized without their intention, individualism and freedom taken into account in viewing and interpreting social reality. According to the critics of this paradigm, objectivity needs to be replaced by subjectivity in the process of scientific inquiry. This gave rise to anti-positivism or naturalistic inquiry. Anti-positivism emphasizes that social reality is viewed and interpreted by the individual according to the ideological positions they posses. The anti-positivists believe that reality is multi-layered and complex (Cohen et al, 2000) and a single phenomenon are having multiple interpretations. Positivism emphasizes objectivist approach to studying social phenomena and gives importance to research methods focusing on quantitative analysis, surveys, experiments etc. Similarly, anti-positivism stresses on subjectivist approach to studying social phenomena attaches importance to a range of research techniques focusing on qualitative analysis like personal interviews, participant observations, account of individuals, personal constructs etc. Other research paradigms further exist in the form of Interpretivism and Realism. Interpretivism is based on beliefs of people and interprets the meaning which they perceive. This emphasises creating research among people than objects. The interpretivist approach is significant if research is conducted in the fields of marketing, organisational behaviour and human resource management (Saunders, 2007). Realism comprises on the fact that reality is independent of the mind. It is totally based on reality rather than idealism. The underlying assumption of realism is that senses show us reality and that is truth. In other words, objects have their existence and thats the reality (Saunders, 2007). Both qualitative and quantitative approaches are utilized when adopting a realism stance (Maylor and Blackmon, 2005). The researcher sees combination of both Interpretivist and Realism stances the most appropriate way to approach this study. The interpretive stance is essential to establish the effectiveness of training activities within the bank while the realism philosophy is important to allowing the other research objectives to be met. According to Easterby Smith it is rare for research to be conducted from a single philosophical perspective, a combination of stances is mostly needed to allow research objectives to be met (Easterby Smith et al, 2002). 3.2 Qualitative and Quantitative Methods Both qualitative and quantitative methods are to be used in this research, thus it is important that both of these to be discussed. Qualitative Methods: Qualitative research methods look more at human perceptions of issues. They tend to offer an insight and deeper, broader understanding of matters, rather than more clinical, concise quantitative approach (Collis and Hussey, 2003).Such methods uncover meanings and the variety of human response. Because they view issues with a social context methods tends to be unstructured and possesses an element of authenticity (Jankowicz, 2005). The qualitative methods which researcher intends to use primarily are semi-structured interviews. Quantitative Methods: Quantitative methods look at facts and figures that can be measured in some way to achieve a quantified, or generalized in terms of their relationship with each other (Collis and Hussey, 2003).The techniques in this type of research include experiments (in which a hypothesis may be tested out under controlled conditions), surveys and questionnaires. The questions are closed ended and structured interviews. 3.3 Primary Research Primary data is collected data, which has specifically being done to answer questions passed by the current research objectives. There are many means of obtaining primary data such as observation, surveys, interviews and questionnaire. The researcher intends to use questionnaires, semi-structured interviews and observation for primary data collection in this research. One of the main advantages of primary data is the availability of up to date data so the credibility of the data usually cannot be questioned (Collis and Hussey, 2003) while the major disadvantages of primary data collection is that it can be a difficult process, especially in terms of time consumption as finding participant, setting up the actual research process and then analyzing the results usually takes up a lot of time (Collis and Hussey, 2003

Public Opinion of Police by Different Ethnic Groups Essay

Cooperation from members of the public is important in order for police officers to effectively fight crime within the community. In order to obtain cooperation from members of the public, police officers must gain their trust and confidence. It has been known that African Americans and Hispanics have lower levels of trust and confidence in police because of racial disparities and racial profiling. This paper will discuss the public opinion of police by different ethnic groups and how racial minorities hold lower levels of trust and confidence in police. The paper will further discuss the November 5, 1992 Detroit Police beating of Malice Green and how members of the community perceived police response after the beating. Express your opinion on the topic African Americans and Hispanics have lower levels of trust and confidence in police because of racial disparities and racial profiling. Research has also shown that lower-income African Americans hold negative views of police in general. Cooperation from individuals within the community comes from gaining trust and confidence within the police (Tyler, 2005). The public is more willing to cooperate with police when trust and confidence is at a higher rate (Tyler, 2005). If members of the community do not trust the police system, then they will not use it (Tyler, 2005). Research has shown that Whites and minorities help police in three different ways. The first is by reporting crimes and criminals (Tyler, 2005). The second is by working within their neighborhood to fight crime (Tyler, 2005). And the third is by supporting the disbursement of public resources to the police (Tyler, 2005). In 2002, 1,653 New Yorkers were surveyed in regards to the NYPD and policing activities in their nei ghborhood. Survey questions included: 1.) â€Å"How likely would you be to call the police to report a crime that was occurring in your neighborhood?† 2.) â€Å"How likely would you be to help the police to find someone suspected of committing a crime by providing them with information?† and 3.) â€Å"How likely would you be to report dangerous or suspicious activities in your neighborhood to the police?† (Tyler, 2005) The survey also asked how often the police â€Å"use ethnic slurs against people in your neighborhood,† â€Å"treat people disrespectfully because of their race,† â€Å"abuse people physically because of their race,† and â€Å"bully or intimidate people because of their race?† (Tyler, 2005) Results from the study indicated that respondents who were White had higher levels of trust and confidence in police than minorities (Tyler, 2005). Hispanics confidence in police was intermediate of Whites and Blacks (Tyler, 2005). Racial profiling has been a hot topic recently and has influenced citizen’s perceptions of police. Minorities that been stopped due to racial profiling are more willing to voice their dissatisfaction with the police. Minorities who have not been racially profiled but hear stories about racial profiling ma y be more skeptical of future experiences with police. Research has found that minorities tend to rate officer legitimacy in a more objective manor when stopped by a minority officer (Tyler, 2005). Minorities that are stopped by White officers tend to be more skeptical of the officer behavior (Tyler, 2005). African Americans are the most skeptical of police behavior and especially believe they are treated unfairly when a White officer stops them (Tyler, 2005). Police officers race could be an important factor in improving citizen and officer relations. Having a diverse law enforcement agency can help better develop relationships within the community as well as build trust and confidence, and assist in effective policing by encouraging support and cooperation from citizens of the community. Understanding how officer race can influence the perceptions of police by minorities is very important in today’s society because police organizations have increasingly received complaints for targeting minority drivers during traffic stops (Cochran, Warren, 2012). It has been known that racial profiling is mostly associated with White officers. Data taken from the 2005 Police Public Contact Survey indicated that Black males and females negatively evaluated police behavior when stopped by a White officer, even if the officer provided a good reason to stop them (Cochran, Warren, 2012). If the officer  is a minority, the response received was completely opposite (Cochran, Warren, 2012). With that being said, minority citizens who are stopp ed by a minority officer rate officer legitimately more objectively than if stopped by a White officer (Cochran, Warren, 2012). Research also showed that African Americans have a higher propensity for viewing police behavior as well as the justice systems illegitimate (Cochran, Warren, 2012). Findings in regards to skepticism of police by Hispanic males and females came up invalid. Therefore suggesting that the rift between police and citizens is focused within African American communities (Cochran, Warren, 2012). Include at least one contemporary event as an example to illustrate the main points On November 5, 1992, six white officers and one black supervising officer of the Detroit Police Department had repeatedly punched, kicked, and bludgeoned Malice Green, a Detroit African American resident, who later died because of the injuries (Sigleman, Welch, Bledsoe, & Combs, 1997). Mr. Green’s death was ruled as a homicide by â€Å"blunt force trauma to the head.† All seven of the officers were suspended. The media coverage was so intense and focused, therefore fostering an image of police as antagonistic or unresponsive to African Americans (Sigleman, Welch, Bledsoe, & Combs, 1997). In July 1992 and November 1992, the Wayne State University Center for Urban Studies completed an in-home interview with 1,124 residents in the Detroit area. The survey-contained questions pertaining to the perceptions of how Blacks were treated by police and how quickly did they respond to your calls for help. Results showed that Blacks were more skeptical than whites were on police response to calls for help (Sigleman, Welch, Bledsoe, & Combs, 1997). Blacks were also more suspicious that police would abuse powers during traffic stops (Sigleman, Welch, Bledsoe, & Combs, 1997). Conclusion Research has shown African Americans express the lowest levels of trust within police whereas Whites express the highest level of trust within police and Hispanics are in the middle (Tyler, 2005). Research has also shown that the public is more willing to cooperate with police when trust and confidence is at a higher rate (Tyler, 2005). If members of the community do not trust the police system, then they will not use it (Tyler, 2005). Research has further shown that minority citizens who are stopped by  a minority officers rate officer legitimately more objectively than if stopped by a White officer (Tyler, 2005). References Cochran, J. C., & Warren, P. Y. (2012, May). Racial, Ethnic, and Gender Differences in Perceptions of the Police. Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice, 28(2), 206-227. Sigelman, L., Welch, S., Bledsoe, T., & Combs, M., (1997, December). Police Brutality and Public Perceptions of Racial Discrimination: A Tale of Two Beatings. Political Research Quarterly, 50(4), 777-791. Tyler, T. R. (2005, September). Policing in Black and White: Ethnic Group Differences in Trust and Confidence in the Police. Police Quarterly, 8(3), 322-342.

God Is Not A Figment Of Our Imagination - 2269 Words

The concept of God’s existence has most likely crossed everyone’s mind once in their lifetime. For some, God is an integral part of their daily lives. Believers live each day devoting themselves to God and appreciating his blessings. On the other hand, others argue that the concept of â€Å"God† is nothing more than a figment of people’s imagination due to lack of physical proof of God’s existence. At some point, even some believers have had their doubts regarding God’s existence simply when prayers go unanswered. However, the concept of God is much larger than believing in Him only when things are going well. Awareness does not mean understanding of who God is or what believing in His existence is all about. In this paper, I will argue that God exists and that He is not a figment of our imagination. I will do so by exploring the writings of Dante in The Inferno and Augustine in Confessions. As understood by many, â€Å"Life is not easy.† Life does not present itself along a clear path; obstacles will always be present. Some hurdles may be easy to overcome and others may require the support of a greater being. The presence of an all-powerful and mighty entity can be seen in civilizations throughout history. Through the existence of prophets and their roles in spreading God’s teachings, many humans have learned to follow God in their lifetimes for God is there to support them along the way. In Augustine’s Confessions, Augustine portrays his belief about the idea of praying to anShow MoreRelatedConsumerism In Fight Club1485 Words   |  6 PagesWith our lives being revolved around materialism, consumerism may cause the destruction of one’s perspective on their contribution to society. This notion was exemplified by Chuck Palahniuk’s book Fight Club, which was adapted into a film in 1999 directed by David Fincher. In the plot of this film , the narrator is a gray-collar worker named Jack who formed an underground organization with his alter-ego Tyler which evolved into Project Mayhem (counter-ideology), where they practiced minimalism andRead MoreWhy Humans Believe On God2078 Words   |  9 Pages Why Humans Believe in God The topic of god is always a hasty matter; does God exist? This question is usually followed by a set of other questions, does God exists independently of the human mind, or is God a creation of humans? So which is which? God is merely a figment of people’s imagination; humans have created God because they need order in their daily lives and since humans are all the same, they want to believe in an all-powerful being that could show them the way. Now some argument thatRead MoreSigmund Freud The Future Of An Illusion Analysis1199 Words   |  5 PagesFreud gives his insights about what he defines as religion and how the societal neurosis called religion can be expunged from our lives. Freud, in his book The Future of an Illusion gives his psychoanalytical theory in trying to explain religion and postulates that the phenomenon called religion is an imagination, a mere illusion that goes beyond questioning. He suggests that science will provide us with knowledge and explanations to do away with the religious neurosis and live a life where scienceRead MoreFicciones, by Jorge Luis Borges Essay894 Words   |  4 Pagestiming in some stories is from an event or tragedy that has occurred around that date. The reader realizes later on in the stories that unrealistic events began to occur which are impossible to take place in real life. This is when our minds become entangled with facts from our world and others form the impossible. In the short stories The Circular Ruins and The Secrete Miracle, the reader is lured into a false sense of reality, by impressive detail and accurately described people and places. None ofRead MoreSummary and Analysis of Various Documents1852 Words   |  7 Pages(Chaps. 2-5) Summary: St. Anselm argues the existence of God based on the following premises: God exists in our understanding which means that the concept of God exists as an idea in our mind. Anything that exists in our understanding has a correlation/ correspondence in the external world, therefore God is a possible being and may well exist in reality. Something that exists in reality is great. Something that is only a concept in our mind it is not replicated in reality may actually be greaterRead MoreThe Value Of Philosophy : Lord Russell1522 Words   |  7 Pagesstudied not for the sake of any definite answers to its questions, since no definite answers can, as a rule, be known to be true, but rather for the sake of the questions themselves; because these questions enlarge our conception of what is possible, enrich our intellectual imagination and diminish the dogmatic assurance which closes the mind against speculation; but above all because, through the greatness of the universe which philosophy contemplates, the mind is also rendered great, and becomesRead MoreKeily M aldonado english essay779 Words   |  4 Pagescommands of natural law, thought according to natural reason, and understood God and creation by way of natural religion. Untouched by the prejudices and narrow-mindedness of modern life and thought, the savage was primitive man, remote from Europe. Science, or at least technology, is often seen as the sharp blade which has cut us off from the roots of that purity. The Noble Savage was an apparition of European imagination, of course, but like any racial stereotype, it said as much about the very realRead MoreThe Differences Between Extrinsic And Intrinsic Religious Expression854 Words   |  4 Pagesreligious expression is related to James’s notion of conversion because James believes God is found in more inner personal experiences making it intrinsic. 2. Marx: religious suffering, â€Å"opium of the people†, â€Å"the heart of a heartless world,† Religion is a necessity for the poor to cope day to day, also believed Religion was used to control people. Religion is an evil that existed in society. Nietzsche: God is dead. The god that humans created to serve sociological or psychological purposes is no longerRead MoreSignificance And Significance Of The Passage Of Colossians808 Words   |  4 Pagesmodern man from the ancient text is to determine the significance of a passage. The meaning of scripture is stable and does not change, but significance, in how it relates to life, is usually never the same. There are many prayers in the word of God that should and can impact the lives of people today. A person must learn and absorb the words of those prayers. Within the context of Paul’s prayer for the Colossians, he gave exceptional instruction. In looking back through Colossians 1:9-14, mostRead MoreThe Satanic Verses, Truth And Falsity999 Words   |  4 Pagesas wrestling with religious doubt, others like Gibreel and Saladin think over their atheism after supernatural events. Definition is resisted, borders blurred, it is questionable whether events are happening or merely figments of imagination. Gibreel asks for ‘some sign’(30) that God is present during his illness, but realizes he is talking to air. He ‘lost his faith’(29) and even after metamorphosis, it is revealed that Gibreel is schizophrenic. The metamorphosis may be invented, as Rekha says to