Poverty Challenges Essays - , Term Papers

Poverty Challenges Poverty Challenges Junior Arnold Spirit is a 14-year old Spokane Indian, who is the main character in the book, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, by Sherman Alexie. He does not have much self-esteem because of physical health problems and being poor. This explains why he is always picked on or even beaten up. The whole Spokane Indian reservation where he lives suffers from extreme poverty, which is a reason why most have given up on hopes and dreams. He fears that he might be trapped on the reservation too if he does not do something to change that. The challenges of poverty makes Junior decide to leave the reservation in search of a better life. Junior blames the Indian reservation for his family being poor. His parents were poor because they were born into poverty. According to the article, Make a Full-Time Effort to Read Part Time Indian, by Laura Dinovis, she says, Its a depressing place where pride and poor education have kept Juniors family members and neighbors in an endless cycle of depression and poverty (A.7). His mother and father both had dreams and talents that went unnoticed and unattained because of limited money and opportunities to those on the reservation. Junior was stunned at the fact that his Geometry book had his mothers name in it. The reservation was so poor that even the school could not afford new textbooks, which did not give children a good education. He says, My school and my tribe are so poor and sad that we have to study from the same dang books our parents studied from. That is absolutely the saddest thing in the world (Alexie 31). He does not resent his parents for being poor, because he loves them and he knows that they try to do everything in their power to give him the things he needs. Despite not having the finances, they respect his wishes to attend Reardon High School, but let him know that other people on the reservation might be angry with him because of his decision. Along with the educational setbacks from belonging to a low to no income community, the type of health care available is very limited. Junior talks about his health issues throughout the story and notes the insufficient access to dental needs to the poor and tell-tale government issue style eyeglasses. Poor nutrition also contributes to the poor health of the people of the reservation and can cause illnesses to go unattended for longer periods of time. He uses these examples to not only make point of the difference in how he views the healthcare provided to the reservation, but how it impacts his life and self-esteem and how he just wants to be normal. Junior expresses that going hungry is not the worst part of being poor. He is willing to sacrifice his well-being to care for a pet. At the beginning of the book, his dog, Oscar is sick and his parents cannot afford a vet. He thinks this is worse than going hungry. He doesnt see this as a major problem because he says sooner or later, my parents will come bursting through the door with a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken (Alexie 8). He wanted to help his best friend and even told his mother he would get a job. The thought of his dog dying and not getting help was devastating to him. He finally realized there was nothing he could do and that his father would end the suffering of his dog by shooting it. He points out that bullets cost less than veterinary care. He also notes the sadness in his fathers eyes knowing what he must do and the hurt it is causing his son. Junior sees the devastation of poverty and how it can end the life of a loved one. Junior tried to hide the fact that he was poor by lying to his friends. He knew that poverty was something to be embarrassed about. I can relate to this when friends ask me to go out, so I tell them I already have plans but in reality I have no money. He wanted to fit in with his

Causes of the American Revolution essays

Causes of the American Revolution essays CHAPTER 2, Q1: What are the decisive events and arguments that produced the American Revolution? "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times (Charles Dickens)." This best describes the Americas in the 1700s. The settlers went through the best of times from obtaining religious freedom, to becoming prosperous merchants, and finally to establishing a more democratic government. However, it was the worst of times in the sense that the settlers in the Americas were taken advantage of my their mother country, England. The hatred of being under anothers control was one of the main reasons that led to the American Revolution. In the 1600s, England began to colonize America. King James I had urged those against the Church of England, such as the Puritans, to settle in America. Many settlers came to America to obtain religious freedom. Merchants settle din America to profit off the land since land was free or cheap at the time. Settling in America gave people hopes and dreams that they can do something with their lives. Even indentured servants had the hope of someday owning land as soon as they were done with their service. It was unlikely but they had hope. The Atlantic Ocean made communications hard between England and the colonies. Because of the difficulties in communication, the colonists developed an independent spirit. Harvard College allowed most Americans to read protests against British injustice printed in papers, pamphlets, and books. The college provided education and writings of Greek philosophers such at John Locke and Jean Jacques Rousseau. The ideas of these Greek philosophers that men were created equal dwelled in these colonists mind. England expected the American Colonies to serve its economic interests, and it regulated colonial trade. In general, the colonists accepted British regulations. For example, they agreed not to manufacture goods...

How to Decline an Offer of Admission to Graduate School

How to Decline an Offer of Admission to Graduate School If you were accepted to a school that you no longer wish to attend, youll have to consider writing a graduate school rejection letter. Perhaps it was not your first choice, or you found a better fit. Theres nothing wrong in declining the offer- it happens all the time. Just make sure to take action and be prompt in your response. Tips on Declining a Grad School Offer Here are a few things to keep in mind: Respond soon: Once you know the school is out, do not delay. Once you give up your spot, it may open up for someone else who really wants to attend that college or university. Plus, it looks bad not to respond at all- especially because the admissions committee devoted their time to evaluating your credentials.Keep it short:  You dont owe the university or college an explanation; just politely and briefly decline the offer (see the template below for wording ideas).Thank them: You may want to thank the admissions committee for their time. You never know when you may encounter one of the members during your career, so keep it nice.Dont disclose more than you need to:  You are not responsible for telling the school which college or university you will be attending. They may ask, but likely not.  Check it off:  You may not need to write a letter at all- some universities and colleges let you check a box declining their offer or do it with a few clicks online. Thanks, But No Thanks After you are done carefully considering all of your options and youre ready to decline the offer, how exactly do you word it? Responding with a short grad school rejection letter will do. This can be an email or a printed letter. Try something along the lines of the following. Dear Dr. Smith (or Admissions Committee): I am writing in response to your offer of admission to the Clinical Psychology program at Graduate University. I appreciate your interest in me, but I regret to inform you that I will not be accepting your offer of admission. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Rebecca R. Student Remember to be polite. Academia is a very small world. You likely will encounter faculty and students from that program sometime during your career. If your message declining the offer of admission is rude, you may be remembered for the wrong reasons.

Evaluate the current uses of 3D printing. Discuss the potential future Essay - 3

Evaluate the current uses of 3D printing. Discuss the potential future of 3D printing based on current issues identified in the literature - Essay Example e that people will have the ability to print their desired objects, if not from the comfort of their homes, then from places nearest them such as from street shops and offices. This revolution will create huge economic and societal benefits, if the challenges surrounding the ideas were addressed. THESIS: While critically evaluating the current state of 3D printing and its future, this essay will address the challenges the idea faces and it’s potential in revolutionizing lives if these challenges are addressed. 3D printing is a manufacturing process that builds objects based on a layer-by-layer model with the help of cross-sectional slices. They use the traditional laser or ink jet printers to pour liquid plastic to an already created digital object on a computer to make the final object. However, instead of using the multi-cultured ink, 3D printer uses powder, which when piled together in form of layers creates an object (Bak, 2003). There are speculations that when more user-friendly robotic makers hit the market, more people will buy them. 4. Apparel manufacturing has also embraced 3D printing, with fashion designers using the technology to design bikinis, shoes, and dresses. For instance, Nike used 3D to prototype and manufacture shoes for the 2012 Vapor Laser Talon football shoes used by players in the American football league. Some companies are also using 3D printing to design eyewear for customers on demand (Urry & Birtchnell, 2013). 5. The automobile industry has also embraced the use of the technology, with car manufacturers using 3D printing to manufacture various car parts. Among these, include the side mirror internals, air ducts, exhaust components, as well as turbo charger components. 6. The construction industry has also embraced the concept as architects now print prototypes of buildings for their clients’ representative of the real buildings. Because customers want to see the actual building on air before the actual construction, then such

Discuss how Queer Theory has challenged the theory and politics of Essay

Discuss how Queer Theory has challenged the theory and politics of feminism and lesbian and gay studies - Essay Example It has acted as the key driver of reforms and development that is female-oriented. The interests of feminism are not limited to social aspects. It cuts across social, cultural, economic aspects. Its main is to achieve equity between men and women, leading to the realization of opportunities that distributed equally between genders. Sexual identities have also taken the same direction as that taken by feminism. Although the advocacy in this case may be different, the crucial aspect to account of is sexual rights. Lesbian and gay studies have been conducted over the years. As this is done, there are emerging and changing trends in sexual identities in both and women (Green, 2007, p.26-45). Lesbians and gays have in the contemporary world become outspoken, demanding rights of recognition and identification. While some nations have embraced their demands, others have remained adamant on the illegality of the two. However, the fact that lesbians and gays are part and parcel of many societ ies in the world cannot be refuted. Queer theory is the central focus in the analysis of feminism and sexual identities, especially when it comes to lesbians and gays. Numerous studies have argued in favour or against queer theory, but it is evident that its influence in these dealings in inevitable, given the current position of feminism, lesbian and gay scenarios in the world. Queer theory traces its emergence in the 1990s, based on women studies. This theory evaluates feminism and identifies the underlying challenges in feminism. However, it not fixed to feminism theories, as it expounds its boundaries beyond the natural or unnatural. It therefore identifies that sexual identities are constructed socially through the gender aspect of the society. Studies outside the queer the theory suggest that gay and lesbian studies stems from the natural and/or unnatural aspect of a society. Queer theory on the other hand makes an extensive focus into sexual activities and identities, introdu cing normative and deviant acts or activities that are sexually based. The position held by queer theory in feminism, lesbian and gay studies is subject to challenge these studies now and in future. Challenges to these studies emanate from the continuous critique and contribution of queer theory. Studies are basically built on theories and arguments of other scholars. In order to effectively draw relevant inferences to studies, and further come up with a study that can be adopted as a reliable reference, it is important to account for the claims presented by other scholars in and outside that field. Social identities and structures are held as the primary functionality mechanisms of feminism. Queer theory is opposed to this argument, thereby holding radical change as a limited in that agenda. As a result, studies that come in that line are divided, some argument for and others against. Striking a balance to derive an optimal argument is therefore a challenge. This is because all the se arguments are backed up by relevant evidence that is drawn from real social life and sexual identities of different groups in the society. Queer theory argues that sexuality is more fluid than it is already expressed by feminism, lesbian and gay studies. It holds that sexuality is not a constrained binary of heterosexual or homosexual acts and identities (Turner, 2000, p.106-107). Theory and politics of feminism, lesbian and gay studies is consistently being forced to encompass aspects that did not factor in in its interests before.

The Importance Of Effective Communication Information Technology Essay

The Importance Of Effective Communication Information Technology Essay Effective communication is crucial to successful performance of teams and for project completion in the construction industry. Various organisations are involved in contributing the delivery of technically complex and schedule driven projects. Why should be there research in this area This dissertation will derive from knowledge obtained from understanding the theories and practices of communication in construction projects, along with knowledge of developments in communication methods implemented during construction phases. The effectiveness of communication methods used between the principal contractor and the design team will be analysed and key issues in communication identified. This in turn will help to understand the reason behind ineffective communication that causes numerous problems in project processes. How are you going to do it? Key findings Introduction Construction is a project oriented industry, and many of the projects are of great magnitude, involving various organisations and teams working to meet projects objectives. No one in the construction industry today would deny that effective communication is crucial for the successful performance of teams and projects. Emmitt and Gorse (2003). This dissertation will be investigating the relationship between a medium sized contractor and a design team working on traditional contract project. The idea for this dissertation derived from comments received on rising issues in communication that continue to cause inconsistencies during projects activities as a result of ineffective communication. Construction projects are complex and risky endeavours, containing a variety of elements that cause projects to run overtime, over budget and produce poor quality results. During the design and construction stages of the project there are numerous communication channels created between the design team and the main contractor, in order to allow information related to projects activities to be disseminated among the participants. For this information to be sent and received accurately and clearly amid designer and a contractor, it is imperative that the relationship between these key parties include competent communicators and effective communication tools in order to interact successfully. During design and construction stages of the project it is of high importance that the accuracy of information that is being transferred between these parties is effectively communicated, as this, in turn will greatly affect the teamwork and positively influence the progress of the project throughou t its duration. (reference) Effective communications is essential to a successful construction project. If participants are unable to communicate information, ideas and issues simply and clearly to others then the project is unlikely to succeed. (Reference). Dainty et al. (2006, p. 5) argue that communication in construction is multifaceted and inherently complex, encompassing several dimensions on individual, group and organizational levels: not only does it involve the transfer of information, but also it bridges distances, is the basis of interaction between people, and conveys feelings, values and beliefs. The problem occurs when communication is handled inadequately during numerous activities. The information that is disseminated between involved, or project related parties can be inaccurate, unclear or misunderstood. This information is distributed using variety of methods and tools, and its the skill of the sender and the circumstances as well as competence of the receiver that may affect this information to be communicated effectively. Whether the specification designed by the architect is clear, whether the participants of the projects understand the information, and if not how effectively can they inform the issue, or if its been noticed at all. Effective Communication methods during all these phases of the project are key aspects to successful construction. This dissertation will be presenting a relationship between a medium sized contractor and the design teams. Aims and Objectives Structure of Dissertation Literature Review Emmitt and Gorse (2003) state that communication is implicit in everything we do. In other words that anything we do with other people must involve some sort of communication, Harley (1999) backs up this argument. Thomas, Tucker and Kelly (1998), explain in simple terms that communication is the sending and the receiving between the team members. This is similar to Cherry (1978) who states that communication is the process of interaction between individuals in which meaning is created and shared. One must understand that when relating this process to construction, communication is one of the most utilised activities. This is because as Betts (1991) states; construction is a complex and managerial activity, involving many different individuals and organisations interacting within a project environment. It is important to understand why effective communication is crucial in project oriented organisations; this is because there is a direct relationship between communications effectivene ss and projects success. Thomas, Tucker and Kelly (1998), Emmitt and Gorse (2003) emphasise that good communication within an organisation and between organisations contributing to the construction project can improve motivation levels and improve production process. Ballad and Howell (2003) included the importance of successful communication in the lean project management, claiming that if communication is effectively utilised in the project then this greatly improves the chances of projects success in terms of on time delivery and reduction in costs. Consequently, inadequate communication can result in a de-motivated workforce and lead to problems in production. Emmitt and Gorse (2003) follow this up by saying that poor co-ordination and communication of design information leads to design problems that cause design errors. These acknowledgements of significance to effective communication have lead me to believe that if in construction project communication is ineffective then this issue can play a vital element in why a construction project fails to deliver or achieve objectives. This is backed up by Thomas, Tucker and Kelly (1998), who explain that project performance can be enhanced through the implementation of effective project communications and conversely, projects can fail if hindered with poor communications. To achieve effective communication in construction projects, it seems that there are numerous factors that require investigating and understanding, before effective communication can be introduced and implemented. (REFERENCE) The question is then; how does a project oriented organisation achieve effective communication? And what could be the causes of ineffective communication that result in inconsistencies during the construction phases? Emmitt and Gorse (2003) state that; effective communication lies at the heart of a business, inherent in leadership and management. Thomas, Tucker Kelly (1998) also say that projects characteristics such as structure, size and location influence the effectiveness of communication. During my studies I have gathered common views that are related to issues during construction phase and post construction that were caused by ineffective communication between the main contractor and the design team. Through further research I wish to understand how effective communication can be achieved in these cases, and possibly unravel these issues in construction projects. Communication Process Communication is the activity or process of expressing ideas and feelings or of giving people information. (Oxford Dictionary 2009) Betts (1991) states that information in construction projects is diverse in terms of its form, its subject and its source. The information that is available also differs with regard to its currency, accuracy, adequacy and relevance. Emmitt and Gorse (2003) add to this, stating that communication and information management is a prime activity in construction. The entire construction process relies on vast quantities of information being generated, transmitted and interpreted to enable a project to be built, maintained and reused. This is backed up by Winch (2009) who states that information flows are the heart of business process in all organisations. Based on this, communication can be a complex process especially in project oriented organisations. This is why it is essential that before effective communication can be explored, one must understand the process of communication. Thomas, Tucker Kelly (1998), say that there is a common set of elements essential to an understanding of communication. Emmitt and Gorse (2003) state that the process method sees communication as the transmission of messages, through which one person or parties seek to influence the behaviour or state of mind of the other. They also add that for communication to be effective the message must first be received and then understood by the receiver. Thomas, Tucker Kelly (1998) also explain that the communication process consists of a Sender and the Receiver. The sender acts as the originator of the communication and knows best the intended idea; therefore the sender must encode the idea into the message that is to be sent. Comprehension of the message by the receiver depends on a number of factors including how much the individual knows about the topic, the relationship and trust that exists between the sender and the receiver. And the receivers understanding and perception of the information being conveyed. Emmitt and Gorse (2003) have also recognised that there often more than one receiver of the message. Thomas, Tucker Kelly (1998) complete this by adding that the message is the encoded idea being transmitted and can be verbal or non verbal. Emmitt and Gorse (2003) explain effective communication is complete when this process is carried out successfully where the sender and receiver achieve a common understanding. Clampitt (2005) discussed the arrow approach where communication is rather like shooting an arrow at a target and is seen as a one-way activity based primarily on the skills of the sender. Harley (1999) also discusses this understanding of communication process and adds his theory supporting Calmpitt in his 1st addition, with a fundamental belief is that Effective Expression = Effective Communication. Winch (2009) states that all organisations are in essence information processing systems. Communication methods implemented in a project oriented organisations all transfer information from one face to another. Winch (2009) explains that the problems in construction projects arise when ineffective communication causes a poor information flow which results in inconsistencies in the project. Emmitt and Gorse (2003) also state that the people build and these people must communicate with one another effectively in order to achieve their common objective. Communication inconsistencies Emmitt and Gorse (2003) believe that communication barriers are evident whenever people meet. They state that trust and the relationship between two communicating parties is very important in ensuring effective communication. Bowen and Edwards (1996) recognise that one of the major barriers to effective communication is in the way of a gatekeeper. A gatekeeper is used to describe the behaviour of an individual who withholds or alters information as it passes him or her. Emmitt and Gorse (2003). Bowen and Edwards (1996) expand on this idea by stating that message distortion is likely to occur where there is an absence of direct communication. Emmitt and Gorse (2003) explain that new IT technologies are welcome, as they provide a convenient tool through which organisations use to transmit, store and access vast quantities of information very rapidly. However, they explain that industry now focus too much on the power and speed of the systems and not enough on the message being transmitted, or the requirements of the users. Winch (2002) has compared and explained that when the interfaces between systems were paper backed systems, it does not matter that different formats were used to create the message. However, when computers started to communicate directly with one another this has become a problem. As it is often seen that the receiver is unable to read the information because the sender has sent it in a different format. This has now become a new problem. Alternatives in Communications Different methods of communications Verbal and non verbal communication- effectiveness of both, different circumstances.

Psychological Disorders Essay

1. Does Katherine’s description meet the clinical criteria for a panic attack? Substantiate your  answer. A panic attack is described as an unexpected period wherein the person suffers intense fear that occurs without warning or any reason.   It is characterized by shortness of breath, palpitations, chest discomfort, trembling, choking feeling, intense sweating, nausea, dizziness, feelings of being detached from oneself, fear of going crazy, dying fears, numbness, and cold or hot flashes.   For an episode to be considered a panic attack, the person has to meet four of the symptoms.   In Katherine’s case, she described four of the symptoms to having a panic attack.   She said that she felt dizzy, had difficulty breathing, was feeling nauseous, and felt like she was detached from herself.   From this, I believe Katherine had a panic attack. 2. Does Katherine meet the criteria for a dissociative disorder? Explain. Dissociative disorders are related to anxiety disorders in the sense that they are also reactions to stress and anxiety factors.   A dissociative person often exhibits changes or losses in consciousness, memory, identity or environmental perception.   In this case, the anxiety factor is clearly the visit to the parents’ house.   For some unknown reason, the visit awakened buried memories.   Although Katherine did not exhibit memory loss or shift, she experienced a change of perception in her environment. Based on how Katherine described her symptoms, I believe she’s suffering from a dissociative disorder.   Although Katherine does not display the usual memory loss and split  personality symptoms typical of dissociative disorders, she has, however, described that she felt  separated from her physical self, like she was outside looking in.   She said that even if she was aware of driving the car, Katherine also felt like a different being who was just looking at another being driving the car.   This seems to be a case of Depersonalization disorder. 3. What other disorders does Katherine appear to have? Analyze. It’s not clear whether Katherine was abused at a young age.   But based from the way Katherine pictured her father coming up from behind her to assault her, it would seem that a similar event had occurred to her in the past.   Either her father did the same to her as a child, or a man who resembles her father or has qualities similar to her father had done the same to her.   As a result Katherine developed an acute stress disorder long after the traumatic event occurred. She went into panic on her way to her parents’ house.   Apparently, the drive to her parents triggered unpleasant feelings.   Perhaps the assault on her person happened in her parents’ house or in the nearby vicinity.   Her avoidance of her parents, her admission of feeling estranged from them, and not letting them know about her plans support this assumption.   Katherine uses avoidance to keep the panic attack at bay.   Her avoidance is typical of others who are suffering from acute stress disorder.   Katherine’s troubled sleep, irritability, and nightmares are the result of a traumatic event that she probably has buried in her consciousness.