Constitutions and by Laws of Ssg

Northside High School Science Club Constitution and By-Laws Article I: Purpose of the Northside High School Science Club The primary purpose of the NHS Science Club is to encourage scholastic effort, foster scientific literacy and interest in science. Article II: Membership Membership in the NHS Science Club is open to students presently enrolled in a science course or were enrolled in a science course the previous semester, has/had an average of 80 and has shown interest in science. Once a student becomes a member, he/she must participate as an active member of the club.Failure to maintain at least an average of 80 each nine weeks will result in probation during which time the student cannot participate in club activities. If the student fails to improve the science course grade to an 80 average for the second consecutive grading period, the student will be dropped from the club membership roll. Activities in which the student must participate may include club meetings, Science Olym piad, Envirothon, other science competitions, and special projects. Article III: Dues Each member must pay a $20. 0 membership fee for dues by the first meeting of the school year. Article IV: Attendance Club members must report to club meetings on the designated days and must remain during the entire time period of the meeting. If a member is not eligible to attend or desires not to attend a meeting, he/she must attend the regular scheduled class for that period when held during the regular school day. A majority of the meetings will be held during nonschool hours for guest speakers, practice for competitions and/or special projects.Failure of a club member to attend club meetings and participate in special projects may result in a student being ineligible for future club membership. Article V: Advisors The Science Club advisor(s) must be a science teacher. He/she must attend scheduled club meetings. The advisor(s) must show an interest for the betterment of the club. The advisors( s) must approve the agenda for each meeting. Article VI: Projects All club projects must be approved and voted on by a two-thirds majority vote.The club will choose whether or not to have a fund-raising project. Article VII: Officers Section 1. Officers will be elected by secret ballot. Nominations will be made at the first meeting of the school year. The advisor(s) will tally the votes and announce the winning officers. Section 2. President The president of the club will be a junior or senior. He/she will preside over all meetings using order to conduct all procedures. It is the president’s responsibility to plan social activities for the club meetings. Section 3.Vice President The vice president’s job will be to assist the president as needed, to help maintain order, and to preside over meetings in the president’s absence. Section 4. Secretary The secretary will be responsible for all club correspondences, keep accurate records of meetings and an accurate roll of members. Section 5. Treasurer The treasurer is to keep accurate records of money collected and spent. All money is to be turned into the advisor(s) so that it can be deposited into the club account. Section 6. The Executive CommitteeThe executive committee will be made up of the four officers listed above and the advisor(s). The committee will plan projects and activities for the club. Article VIII: Goal It is the goal of the Science Club to strive to promote excellence in scholastic achievement in the science courses offered at Northside High School. As well, the club members will strive to provide opportunities for students to further their interest in all fields of science and to educate the student body of Northside High School and the community about the preservation of the environment and its natural resources.

An Event

Aims Good educational background Safety for all students Enjoyable trip Effective and efficient transport Here are the aims in which we are looking at to achieve on the trip which we choose. We have chosen to aim to get a good educational background from the trip because it therefore gives us a higher value on which to evaluate the trip and we then gain good knowledge. Safety for all students is really Important no matter what the trip Involves. The trip being enjoyable by the students Is also Important because then we are also gallon an experience through school work.Objectives Be organized Effective communication throughout the group Ensure everyone is aware – knowing what is going on at all times Make sure everyone is happy with what we are doing – student input Objectives are what are in place in order to achieve the aim therefore we are looking to achieve the aims above which will make the trip a successful one. The main objective on the trip is to be organized bec ause if we are not organized then could end up causing big problems throughout.Outcomes Successful trip Receiving a positive feedback from all Individuals on the trip Show that we can work together as a team and successfully These outcomes are in place as these are what we are looking to have achieved from the trip. Primary Market Research For the primary research in which we were using to use to see which options are best for the trip and will hopefully allow us to meet our aims and objectives, we created a questionnaire and asked 31 people to see what they thought. Here are the questions in which we asked.Out of the following places where would you most likely like to visit? For each of these trips, how much would you be willing to pay for them? For each of these trips which activities would you most likely like to participate in? For each of these trips, which activities would you be most likely to participate in? For each of these trips how much would you be willing to pay for t hem? (Paris) Below are the results In which we received from the questionnaire that we asked and the evaluations to which we could chose most appropriately to the students' wants and needs. Dents would want to visit would be New York. This shows that although some students would like to see some of the other options in which was available New York would be most likely. 15 out of 31 people said they would prefer New York which shows that it is a popular attraction and would be considered for our trip. We asked a number of people how much they would be willing to pay to go to New York. The results show that students would be willing to pay IEEE-IEEE. From these results we know that students are aware of the pricing in which New York would cost.We now know that we would have to keep the pricing of the trip within this pricing bracket as none of the students we asked said that they would pay IEEE-IOW. We think that this is a good result because looking at the graph above, the majority o f the people that we asked said that they would like to go New York, and comparing it to his one they said that they would be willing to pay a reasonable amount of money up to IEEE, this gives us prime reason to plan a New York trip at an affordable price and therefore meet our aims in which we have set.For each trip we go on, we have to organism events on which to visit whilst we were on the trip to make them worthwhile. We asked this question to see not only what activities students would like to participate in but also where they would like to visit within the same question. This particular graph shows the results of where people would like to visit if we were to go on the trip to Paris. The results show that the majority of the people in which we asked would like to go to Chocolate although the other activities in which were asked about had a very popular response as well.The second most popular answer is State De France which is also a very popular attraction. I think that visi ting these areas of Paris would contribute to our aims and objectives within the group well because both of the most popular answers are very good for educational backgrounds and the trip would most definitely be enjoyable. I think that if we were to go to Paris, the prices from the question and results graph above would vary cause of the price of the activities on top of transport; accommodation etc. Loud appear a lot more than EYE. Here we were looking at how much students would be willing to pay if we were to go on the Paris trip. We asked this question so that we could see how much students would be willing to pay and therefore look at how we could afford this price with activities as well. The results show that students would be willing to pay IEEE-IEEE. If we were to choose this trip we would therefore have to keep the price within this price range as not many students would be willing to pay any more.We would also have to look at including the activities in which were chosen in the above graph and including them in the price which would be difficult so we would have to do a lot of research to see what the best strategy would be to overcome this. This question was asked so that we could see how much each student would be willing to pay for each trip if it were to go to Barcelona. The most popular response was IEEE-IEEE. I think that this is a reasonable price to pay for all students and teachers but also it gives us room for negotiation within the trip so as it is quite a lot of money.If we were to go than this amount finally because the other students which answered this said they would pay any more than IEEE. This question was asked so that we could see what activities students would like to participate in if the trip to New York were to go ahead. The most popular answer was Times Square therefore we would look into visiting Times Square if we were to take the trip to New York. To do this we would have to look at the cost in which students would be wil ling to pay for each visit within the place we chose to go and see if Times Square would be an option. Linking back t rap No. , students answered that they would be willing to pay IEEE-IEEE. This gives us enough off range to organism and plan a trip to Times Square. This graph I based on the results that students would be willing to pay for each trip in Berlin. The most popular result from the students was IEEE-IEEE. This is a reasonable price to pay although looking at graph No. L it shows that not as many students would like to go to Berlin compared to New York or Barcelona. Also, looking at graph No. 2, it shows that students would be willing to pay a lot more for a trip further away and also with ore of a reputation.This gives us opportunity to make the trip an experience of a lifetime. The aim of this question on the questionnaire was to get results of what activities students would most likely want to participate in if the trip to Barcelona were to go ahead. The most common re sult based on this question was Non Camp, Poor of Barcelona being the second most popular answer. Looking at graph No. L only around 5 students said that they would rather go to Barcelona over the other three choices therefore it would not be our most popular trip request. Also, looking at graph No. He students were asked how much they would be willing to pay to go to Barcelona and the most popular answer was IEEE-IEEE. This could be a rough asking price for the trip but as Non Camp and Port of Barcelona are well-known tourist attractions, we would have to cater for these swell within the asking price which would boost it up. This graph is mainly relating to graph No. 7. That graph is asking students what they would be willing pay to towards a trip to Berlin, the most popular answer was IEEE- IEEE. This graph shows that 24 students would like to visit Reichstag Dome and the second most popular option being Alex Springer House.This could involve the trip costing more as both of these places are popular tourist attractions. There is a chance that the trip to Berlin and or one of these trips whilst away could cost a lot more than the students are willing to pay for therefore we would have to negotiate the trip payments etc. BMW Motorbike Factory and the Berlin Stock Exchange are alas very popular answers within the results of this question therefore we could look at the prices for each trip in Berlin and see which would be closest to the price in which students would be willing to pay on this trip.Secondary market research The secondary market research below involves us as a group researching the most important information from different websites about each of the trip options available. The research was print screened directly from the website therefore all information is correct and efficient. This print screen states the information in which appropriate place etc. This website could be very useful to use as if offers all the information that we need to make su re we meet our aims and objectives e. G. Health and Safety.This website also sorts and chooses the most suitable accommodation for he needs of the students therefore it would be efficient in helping us to choose the important details within the trip. This screen shot is from European Study Tours which is a very efficient company when dealing with school trips abroad. The website includes all places in which are too available to visit and also enables us to book the trip and accommodation reliably. There is also an option on this website for ‘Educational Visits' therefore we could plan the trip around education and include day trips etc. Ore efficient for this. The website also offers quotes to be given before the rip as well so that we could try and get the closest price to each trip relating to the questionnaire graphs and therefore how much the students are willing to pay to make sure we meet our aims and objectives. The website offers contact details so that we can contact them if we have any UN-answered questions etc. I think that this website looks efficient in booking our trip as they are a reliable company and provide the information possible for making the booking as easy as possible.The screen shot on the left also states that the company advertise discounted school trips and special offers therefore we could use this to our advantage through the company and possibly decrease the price. Here is a screen shot of the Barcelona section within the European study tours website. It states what Barcelona offers for the students. It also has other links to Barcelona educational trips for 6th forms and colleges. On the right of this screen shot the website offers special offers for different options. The website also offers advice on booking trips on the left.I think that the website offers good facilities to book the trips available. This screenings is based on looking at information about Berlin. The website is schools in Europe which is also a well-kn own and reliable company for booking school trips. I think that this website has a lot in favor compared to the screen shot above. This website offers information on day trips and tours etc. On the right therefore giving the students choices. The website also offers different languages and a lot of information on Berlin itself.I think that this would be a suitable website for us to use to book our trip as it is efficient and has all of the information needed to make sure that we have the most efficient trip possible. We I think that the most appropriate website (company) for us to use would be United Airlines. This is because it seems the most efficient out of the ones in which we looked at and also it enables us to look at all of the different options for the trips relating to the questionnaire above. Travel insurance I looked in to finding some research based on travel insurance to see which one most and also at the cheapest price possible.The results are below. This screen shot s hows the research in which we looked in to about travel insurance from www. Directing. Co. UK. The screen shot says what the insurance covers, how to book etc. This particular travel insurance company covers all of the information at the bottom of the screen shot (bullet points). I think that this travel insurance company would be appropriate to cover our trip because it is a well known brand therefore it would be reliable, it covers a lot within the price and also the pricing is reasonable for the amount in which the price covers. This screen shot shows information from Targeted insurance company.This insurance company shows that it offers school travel insurance which is useful to book in numbers as we would do. The screen shot shows what the travel insurance offers which aren't a lot on this site although it looks reliable and covers the main areas of insurance which we would need. Another advantage if we were to use this company would be that we can get a quote online therefore we could chose if this is the right company for us there and then and therefore price up the trip for the students quicker. This screen shot is from Enkindles Travel Insurance. This company also offer school group travel insurance.This covers accidental loss, theft or damage of the group money. The benefits of using this travel insurance company are at the OTTOMH of the screen shot and there are a lot of them which insures us that the company will be reliable for us students going on the trip. You can also get a quote on the first page of the website therefore we can get a quote quickly. The company looks reliable and efficient in insuring they do the best they can at the cheapest price. Here are four travel insurance companies in which we could use and they all give minimal detail about what they offer/cover.Some of them are better than others for example ‘Protect Your Bubble' looks better than ‘LULL Direct' as they offer better over for the insurance which is more suit ed to the students and trips we have the choices to go on. The LULL Direct Company are suited more to the elderly where as the Topped look as though it is more suited to businesses as they speak about trading company insurance. I think that out of these four the most efficient one suited to the needs of our trip and the bases of the trips that we could be going on would be Protect Your Bubble.Coach Comparisons When we planned the organization of the trip we had to plan and see how we would get to the airport and back etc all together. We researched four different coach impasses to see which was cheapest and we got these results. Company Contact number Price (return) Marshall 01 525376077 Souls IEEE(settle) Masons 01296661604 IEEE Cedar 0800731 5105 IEEE Here shows that the cheapest coach traveling company from the four options we chose from is IEEE because although Souls is cheaper at IEEE that was only one way whereas masons are return for a cheaper price.Marshall did not get back to us with a quote therefore we could not state a price in the chart above. Finance for the trip In this part of the assignment I will provide the fixed and variable costs involved in he trip. The fixed costs are costs in which cannot be changed and have to be paid or the trip cannot go ahead, for example the flights and accommodation bills. The variable costs are costs in which can be paid/available but if they are not then it is not going to give any risk towards the trip and it can therefore still go ahead.Variable costs are Variable' to each person. Fixed and variable costs These are the fixed costs involved in the trip in which we go on. The coach is a fixed cost as this needs to pay in order for all students to arrive at the same time and to not be lost. The travel company is a very important fixed cost and needs to be paid in full. This enables the trip to go ahead; the travel company costs cover the accommodation for the trip and the flights. The visas are also very importan t fixed costs as they cover our insurance for the trip.Above are the variable costs within the trip. A variable cost is a cost in which can change from person to person. Spending money is a variable cost because it differs, there is no set cost in which needs to be bought along on the trip, this is up to the individual. Meals are also a variable cost because students are asked to bring their win money for meals therefore they will need the money, yet if they chose not to bring it then they won't be eating on the trip. Souvenirs are also not a necessity it is out of pure choice that students chose to buy souvenirs for others.Fundraising As the cost of the trip in which we go on, including coaches, travel insurance etc. Would cost a lot more than anticipated, there could be a chance in which we would have to ask the students to do some fund raising activities to put some money towards the trip as it could turn out a big sum of money, more than they stated they ere willing to pay on th e questionnaire analysis. The fund raising activities could include outside and inside of school activities involving sports events, year group events, car boots etc.The money in which we raise will go towards the trip but could accommodation. The fund rising may not need to be done but if it does we feel that it is the best way to make the money quickly and also is an achievement. The finance of the trip will be paid in installments, the trip will be held in February when the decisions are finally made as to where we will be going. This will mean that the mount of money in which is needed to pay the fixed costs and the variable costs (if intended) can be paid over the 8 months in which we have until the trip.The cost will be divided in to 8 costs (or as many months as there are until the trip) plus a OHIO deposit to ensure that we have a place on the trip. Finalized trip plan Looking through all of the above research we have decided as a group that we are going to choose to go to N ew York on the trip. We chose this trip above all of the others because we feel that it will benefit the students more also that it is a very exciting once in a life time trip away which students would pay good money to go on. The other main reason in which we chose this trip was because this was the most popular chosen option on the questionnaire analysis chart.The research that we did for New York states those students would be willing to pay around E801E900. This is a reasonable amount to pay for the trip and we think that we could plan and organism a trip around this value of money. The research also states that students would like to visit Times Square, Ground Zero, Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building. We have therefore booked these places to visit in New York. We have booked to go to New York using European Study Tours Travel Company as this looked the most efficient and reliable throughout the secondary research.Looking at the coach research, we have chosen to tra vel with Masons to and from the airport as it is cheaper for a return than the other companies offer. Masons are a very reliable coach traveling company therefore we can meet our main aim which is safety for all students. The main details of the trip are below. Where are we going? New York Which travel company are we going with? European Study Tours. This company have planned our accommodation which will be Manhattan Hotel in Times Square (relating back to the visit to Times Square in which students said they would like to visit.They have also arranged for us to fly with United Airlines. Where are we planning to visit whilst in New York? Mustang Harry on 7th Avenue Programmer tour of Financial district stop off at Mooring's Bank Tavern Federal Reserve Ground Zero Liberty & Ellis island ferry Macy's Guided tour Historic Herald Square Location Empire state building Madame Tussahs workshop We have planned these trips based on the questionnaire results and added some ore trips to visit that would make the trip more of an experience.Below is an Itinerary in which we made to show the exact details of the trip and times for parents 17th-21st February Monday 17th February Arrive at London Heathers airport 7. Mama – Check in at United Airlines desk at terminal 10. Mama – Depart London Heathers airport for Newark Liberty Airport – Flight No: AU 28 13. Pm – Arrive at Newark Airport – Skylines – coach transfer to accommodation 3. Pm – Arrive at accommodation 7. Pm – Evening meal in Local restaurant Tuesday 18th February Breakfast – Mustang Harry on 7th Avenue Wednesday 19th FebruaryBreakfast- Mustang Harry Visit Macy's Guided tour Afternoon visit – Empire state building and free time before the evening Thursday 20th February Breakfast – Mustang Harry Visit Madame Tussahs workshop Students given a 45 minute presentation by key members of staff Check out of rooms 2. Pm – meet coach at accomm odation for airport transfer 4. Pm – Check in at United Airlines desk at Newark Liberty airport 7. Pm – Depart Newark Airport for London Heathers on Flight No : CIA 29 Friday 21st February 7. Mama – Arrive at London Heathers Airport Coach from Airport to Cedars Make your own way home from School

Western art music.Fryderyk Franciszek Chopin Essay

Western art music.Fryderyk Franciszek Chopin - Essay Example Fryderyk Franciszek Chopin, the world's acclaimed genius: a composer, pianist and teacher, born 1810 March 1 to "French migr father (a schoolteacher working in Poland) and a cultured Polish mother,with three sisters in â€Å"the region of Mazovia, which was part of the Duchy of Warsaw†2. Controversially, Chopin's baptismal certificate revealed that he was born 1810 February 22. Either date does not upset the gifted composer/pianist to conquer international prominence. In the years of "lively domestic music-making"3 Fryderyk was then five, his sister Izabela described her little brother, "'soon began to display a sensitivity to musical impressions by crying'"3 (qtd in Chopin Diary, http://en.chopin.nifc.pl). Chopin's talent was not concealed from public from his early childhood as he was commended the "child prodigy for his keyboard and composition skill"4 (Fryderyk Franciszek Chopin Biography, www.last.fm/music/Fr) which had been closely equated with Mozart as he showcased his gift with "two polonaises (in G minor and B flat major), the first being published in the engraving workshop of Father Cybulski. The prodigy was featured in the Warsaw newspapers",5 as young as seven years old. (Music History, www.nivmusic.com). From this period, "little Chopin" was the adornment of the aristocratic salons in Warsaw. Seven was the age that Chopin made had his first concert. In the next twenty years, Chopin stayed in Warsaw. Chopin's first formal piano lessons after his piano practices with his mother was with Wojciech Zywny and played his first public appearance at a charity concert by Czech composer Adalbert Gyrowetz. After Chopin stopped his piano lessons with Zywny, he started to learn compositions with Jozef Elsner taking organ lessons simultaneously with Wilhelm Wuerfl. Chopin's formal schooling was attended at the Warsaw Lyceum where he spent most of his summer holidays in various parts of the countryside and developed keen interest to folk music and country traditions and "became well acquainted with the folk music of the Polish plains in its authentic form, with its distinct tonality, richness of rhythms and dance vigour"5 thereby, composing his first Mazurka. (Music History, www.nivmusic.com). From his holiday vacations, he wrote to his parents, "'Through God's grace I am well and time always passes most pleasurably. I neither read nor write, but I play, drawn, run, make the most of the fresh air...'"3. This first letter was followed by a series of "amusing 'letters'3, known as the 'Kurier Szafarski' [Szafarnia Courier], parodying the 'Kurier Warszawski' [Warsaw Courier]."3 (qtd in Chopin Diary, http://en.chopin.nifc.pl). At age 15, Chopin was already a published composer with a soft heart to the impoverished ones where he performed charity concerts. The growing Chopin is exposed to political flux which at one time and another influenced his compositions, At Surname 3 Warsaw, young Chopin witnessed "arrests [] made among the members of the Narodowe Towarzystwo Patriotyczne" 3. (qtd in Chopin Diary, http://en.chopin.nifc.pl). At Warsaw School of Music, Chopin started to study the theory of music. However, he showed disinterest in his piano class and did not attend classes by which was leniently tolerated by the school head Elsner in view of understanding the personality and temperament of Chopin being aware of his unmistakable superior talent of which he acclaimed in writing, "Chopin, Fryderyk, third year student, amazing talent, musical genius".6 (qtd. in Academy of Music, www.hrovatmusic.com). Previously, in the first and second year of young Chopin, he was commended "'First-year: Chopin Fryderyk - special ability, second-year: Dobrzyski Ignacy - rare ability...'" 3. In another view of Chopin, Wilhelm Kohlberg recalls the time they were learning English, "[]These lessons

The interview about communication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The interview about communication - Essay Example The first question I asked my friend is related to his view regarding the relations between communications and culture. He believes that communication and culture are closely intertwined with each other. In fact, my friend holds that the lack or non-existence of culture would result to the impossibility of the development of communication, historically and vice versa. He gives an example of the development of the human species. He explained that the earliest days of human beings were close to the culture of communication. Communication first started out as a necessity for collective survival of human tribes. Eventually, culture was developed as humanity developed communication skills. It came to a point wherein human beings formed different societies, created their own culture, and produced cultural distinctions and differences. This leads to the next question regarding the method behind communication as a means to bridging cultural differences. My friend answers that finding a bridge between the cultural differences of people requires understanding the culture of others. Man must look and understand another culture for what it is without any preconceived judgments or prejudices. There is no such thing as a general application of one cultural aspect to another. Each culture has its own perspective regarding different matters or points of view. According to my friend, there is a tendency for many prevailing cultures to insist that their point of view regarding any matter applies, or should be applied and adhered to by other cultures.

John Stuart Mill Utilitarianism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

John Stuart Mill Utilitarianism - Essay Example He argues that the principle of utility should be seen as a tool for promoting general happiness. Most of our actions, according to him, should be judged according to this principle. In his illustration of the utility theory, Mill thinks that we should appeal to the principle of utility only when we face a moral dilemma between two secondary principles. The basic assumption of the utilitarian theory, as advocated by Mill, is that "we should each act so as to promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people." These important ethical views of Mill can be applied in almost all fields of our lives. That is, a utilitarian advocate may judge any act or behavior according to the amount of happiness or sadness it will produce for the greatest number of people. While this seems a claim that would be approved by all people, the question that emerges here is: "who are the persons to whom the actions should promote happiness?" According to the utilitarian theory, in order for any action to be right and ethical, it should promote happiness to the maximum number of people involved (Cain). ... Utilitarianism, as a form of the consequentialist theory, can be defined as a moral theory according to which an act is right if it conforms to the notion of usefulness or utility of the group. That is, an act conforms to the notion of utility if its performance will result in the maximum pleasure for the maximum number of people. So, the value of the consequences of an act, according to utilitarianism, is determined entirely by the welfare of everyone concerned in the action. On the other hand, a non-consequentialist theory judges the rightness or wrongness of an action based on properties intrinsic to the action, not on its  consequences. Relevant to the non-consequentialist theory is the categorical imperative approach, advocated by the eighteenth century German philosopher Immanuel Kant. According to the categorical imperative theory, an action is moral only if the rule that governs it can be generalized to all human beings on earth. That is, the will should be influenced only by universal considerations, and not by subjective considerations, identified by the one involved in action. Therefore, ethical egoism and utilitarianism are two classical contradictory philosophical theories that attempt to explain the behavior of individuals, families, and governments. According to utilitarianism, an act is ethically right if it conforms to the notion of utility, and an act conforms to the notion of utility if its performance will result in the maximum happiness for everyone concerned (Mill). That is, utilitarianism maintains that the ethical standards of each action is to be determined according to the favorable or unfavorable consequences of that action. In Mill's words, utilitarianism refers to "the creed which accepts

Answer 2 discussion questions and write a 2-3 page paper from uploaded Research

Answer 2 discussion questions and write a 2-3 page from uploaded information - Research Paper Example Therefore, one strongly believes that it is possible that there are customers who visit these two stores, as evident from the example indicated herein. Chapter 12: Discussion Question 9 For instance, if one would like to establish a new restaurant, the restaurant or food service industry should be evaluated in terms current status and condition of the market. As such an external analysis should be made of the market’s customers, competitors, suppliers, and potential partners (Spulber, 2009). In addition, the potential entrant must be able to assess and comprehensibly evaluate current competitors that are firmly entrenched in the market, their core competencies, strategies applied, and the clientele that they specifically cater to. Therefore, the strategies that must be designed to effectively compete with incumbent firms are as follows: (1) determine the strengths and weaknesses of these competitors. As emphasized, â€Å"companies should concentrate their strength against the weaknesses of their competitors† (Spulber, 2009, p. ... Likewise, if the incumbent firms exhibit cost advantages, the potential entrant could design strategies which include â€Å"process innovation, increased efficiency, outsourcing, and contracts with customers† (Spulber, 2009, p. 372). In addition, the potential entrant could also apply entry strategies to address differentiation advantages through focusing on product innovation and tailoring the services or products offered to the needs, demands, and preferences of customers. Also, the potential entrant could apply entry strategies which address transaction advantages of competitors through â€Å"innovation in transaction technology, development of new forms of transactions, and creation of new combinations of buyers and sellers† (Spulber, 2009, p. 372), as deemed necessary. Therefore, expected challenges that the potential entrant could face include: immediate response and reaction from the competitors; being recognized in the market through the application of strategie s involving the 4Ps; as well as in designing the most appropriate and effective entry strategy according to the core competencies, advantages, and strengths which would cater to the needs, demands, and preferences of the clientele. As such, selection of the most appropriate entry strategy would actually depend on the positioning of the potential entrant; meaning, to which particular market segment they aim to serve. This would specifically determine the competitors or incumbent which the potential entrant should assess; and apply the most needed entry strategy depending on the core competencies and advantages exhibited by these competitors. 2. Essay: What are the key cost drivers and determinants of cost advantage needed by managers when using a price leadership strategy? Students should be

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Altria Group Inc. (MO) and Philip Morris International, Inc. (PM) - Essay Example Over the years, the company has introduced different product lines with different brand names in order to attract different types of customers. This aspect has played a significant role in reducing the risks and uncertainties associated with concentrating on a single product. Beside tobacco it has focused on wine production. Some of the wine brands include; Chateau Ste Michelle, Snoqualmie, Erath. The company has a definite structure led by the board of directors. In addition, the company is divided into different departments depending on the area of specialization. This is to ensure that each sector specializes on a specific task. For instance, marketing and financial sectors operate differently. This has enabled the subordinates to work independently and maximize on their areas of specialization. This aspect has been critical in the overall success of the company. Philip Morris International, Inc. (PM) is a global multinational firms based in United States that deal with cigarette and tobacco production. The company’s products are sold in over 200 countries across the world. The company is mainly known for its best selling product of Malboro (Luo 352). With over 15% of its products being sold outside the United States, the firm has been able to penetrate and segment the global market. This is despite the increasing levels of competition which has emanated from the entry of multinational companies which have a huge financial base to position their products strategically in the market and create a barrier of entry for other interested investors. Before, 2008, Philip Morris International, Inc. (PM) was an operating company under the Altria Group. The idea behind the formation of the company was to provide the firm with an opportunity to pursue the emerging markets. This was aimed at increasing sales and revenues of the firm and enabling the company to avoid the challenges faced by companies in relation to US corporate ownership. The firm’s

Music and Architecture n Britain during the Period 1600 to 1750 Coursework

Music and Architecture n Britain during the Period 1600 to 1750 - Coursework Example The development in architecture has been influenced by a number of happenings in Italy during the initial Baroque period as in the case of Music. Subsequently, by early 18th century the Georgian Architecture evolves from the Baroque as an alternate and not so rich. The literature study will go through these periods of musical and architectural history to delve deeper into the happenings during this period, the development of both and their structure. Baroque period was the beginning of a major change in the approach to music in the Western Europe. The growing power of the Europe both economically and militarily led the music industry also to take its turn and grow. Baroque music is very complicated with motets and madrigals and movement of voices over and across one another creating the opera and the Oratorio. While one had the musical ingredients combined with drama and scenery, the Oratorio did not have the scenery making it just the voice and the music alone (Saddie J A, 1998). Du ring this period of Baroque, there was no piano and it is yet to be invented. The major musical instrument was the violin, which was considered the queen of all instruments. The keyboard instruments are the harpsichord and the organ. The Baroque period also saw the rise of what are called the Orchestras. Chamber music was played by the Chamber Orchestra which had a small group of players playing specific instruments. These were in Trios (3), Quartets (4) or in Quintets (5) and can go up to 10 players in all (Colles 1927). During this period the most common form of music came in as Instrumental Suite. They were mixed with dances so that the music and dance went together along with drama in some cases to make a complete presentation. In Opera, the voice was added. The Baroque Period was made proud by a number of composers and renowned musicians. The early Baroque period is normally looked at as the period between 1600 and 1654. Baroque's dividing line from the Renaissance period starts with the rise of the Opera, the musical drama. This was first staged in Italy by Claudio Monteverdi (Franklin Zimmerman, Jul 1958). This is normally referred to as the 'recitative style' which also permeates architecture and painting. While at the same time, on the music front the major change in the figured bass and in the polyphonic composition in association with the harmonic one. This was also the period when the music was slowly weaned away from the influence of the Catholic Church and a slow but steady move towards secular thought in music came up. The Protestant thought also reflected in the music and most of the developments in music can be attributed to the rising competition between catholic and protestant churches. One of the other major changes in mu sic was the text form of music which could transcend language barriers and was being used in Germany by Heinrich Schutz. This was completely redone from the prima practica, by Monteverdi as seconda practica (musica 2007). The Monteverdi style includes idiomatic writing, virtuoso flourishes and other new techniques. This became the core of the early Baroque Period and goes on up to the very end of this period in 1750. The influence of the Italian composers continued to dominate the music scene during the early

Students Diversity and Teaching Practices Essay Example for Free

Students Diversity and Teaching Practices Essay Teaching practice is the practical aspect of teacher training and it is an assortment of factual and dramatic characteristics. During the teaching practice student teachers find an opportunity to use the acquired knowledge, especially in the areas of psychology, teaching methods, teaching principles and teaching techniques. During teaching practice student teachers are like apprentices to acquire skills. Teaching practice is a valuable opportunity, where student teachers are in a position to increase their knowledge, do experiments on the basis of acquired knowledge and to solve the problems related to teaching. Student teachers which are on teaching practice, if they are aware about their lacking experience and need of more learning, as well as willing to learn and gain, then they can learn practically much more from experienced teachers and teacher educators. During teaching practice, it is not only that they have opportunity of teaching but they also have the opportunity to observe inside and outside of the classroom. In this connection data was collected from 650 student/prospective teachers who have completed their teaching practice and it was found that in Pakistan teaching practice is not taken seriously and many interesting findings were found in this regard. Key Words: teaching practice, problems, issues, Pakistan Introduction Practice teaching occupies a key position in the programme of teacher education. It is a culminating experience in teacher preparation. It provides opportunity to beginning teachers to become socialized into the profession (Furlong et. al, 1988). Performance during practice teaching provides some basis for predicting the future success of the teacher. Outgoing popularity and centrality of practice teaching is an important contributing factor towards the quality of teacher education programme. During practice teaching working with students in schools provides a high degree of emotional involvement mostly of a 1Federal 2 College of Education H-9, Islamabad, Pakisatn,[emailprotected] com G C University, Faisalabad,Pakistan 3The niversity of Gujrat, Pakistan 4Federal College of Education H-9, Islamabad, Pakisatn  © 2010 International Online Journal of Educational Sciences ISSN: 1309-2707 Aijaz Ahmed Gujjar, Bushra Naoreen Saifullah SAIFI Muhammad Jamil Bajwa positive nature. Student teachers feel themselves grow through experience and they begin to link to a culture of teaching. During practice teaching, they feel engaged, challenged and even empowered (Trowbridge and Bybee, 1994; sharafuddin, and Allison, 1969). Definitions of Teaching Practice A number of terms such as the practice teaching, student teaching, teaching practice, field studies, infield experience, school based experience or internship are used to refer to this activity (Taneja, 2000). The term practice teaching embraces all the learning experiences of student teachers in schools (Ashraf, 1999). The term practice teaching has three major connotations: the practicing of teaching skills and acquisition of the role of a teacher; the whole range of experiences that students go through in schools; and the practical aspects of the course as distinct from theoretical studies (Stones and Morris, 1977). Teaching practice is the name of the preparation of student teachers for teaching by practical training. It is the practical use of teaching methods, teaching strategies, teaching principles, teaching techniques and practical training and practice / exercise of different activities of daily school life. Objectives of Practice Teaching According to Akbar (2002) Following are the objectives of practice teaching: 1. To provide the prospective teachers with an opportunity of establishing an appropriate teacher pupil relationship. 2. To provide an opportunity for evaluating the student potential as a teacher and suitability for the teaching profession. 3. To develop personal relationship with others: administrators, teachers, parents and students. 4. To provide the future teacher with practical experience in school to overcome the problems of discipline and enable him / her to develop method of control. 340 International Online Journal of Educational Sciences, 2010, 2(2), 339-361 5. To provide with an opportunity to put theories into practice and to develop a deeper understanding of educational principles and their implication for learning. 6. To enable the student teachers effectively to plan and prepare lessons. . To develop skill in the use of fundamental procedures, techniques and methods of teaching. 8. To develop desirable professional interests, attitudes and ideas relative to teaching profession. 9. To enable student teachers to acquire desirable characteristics / traits of a teacher and to display appropriate behaviour. 10. To provide student teachers with an opportunity to have teaching evaluated and to gain from the benefit s of constructive criticism. 11. To provide an opportunity for self evaluation and to discover own strengths and weaknesses. 12. To develop skills in future teachers related to teaching like fluent speaking, meaningful reading, using blackboard and other teaching material. 13. To provide an opportunity to liaison with school environment, its functioning and with community and its resources. 14. To provide for the exchange of ideas and methods between practicing school and teacher training institution, by teacher training institutions’ staff and students, perceiving new ideas material and equipment in use in practicing schools and introducing new ideas, material and equipments into the school. Stages in teaching practice Following are the stages in teaching practice 341 Aijaz Ahmed Gujjar, Bushra Naoreen Saifullah SAIFI Muhammad Jamil Bajwa Primary Stage It is necessary to make a trip of student teachers to that particular school, where they are going for practice teaching. The main aim of this tour is to see the concerned head teacher, class teachers and school staff in order to acquire information about school and its environment. Student teachers must observe the teaching methods of school, methods of concerned class teacher, copies or notebooks of the students and their usual routine. On return from the tour student teachers must have the details about scheme of studies, age of the students, strength of the class, abilities and specific problems of the students, timing of the school, textbooks and teaching aids. Preparation of Lesson For the preparation of lesson student teachers must know the subject, the relevant books and audio visual aids which he / she is going to teach. Well prepared lecture gives confidence to the teacher in the class. Student teachers and supervisor can reform the teaching learning process after its evaluation. Qualities of a Good Lesson A good lesson has the following qualities: I. II. III. IV. V. VI. VII. Lesson planning should be in complete detail. Lesson should be interesting. Effective and timely use of teaching methods and teaching aids. Student should be ready for learning. Students should be involved practically in teaching learning process. Lesson should be taught in professional and friendly environment. All students should be given same attention by keeping in view their individual differences. 342 International Online Journal of Educational Sciences, 2010, 2(2), 339-361 Teaching in Classroom The stage of teaching in the classroom is known as practice teaching. Student teachers while teaching in the classroom passes through different steps of his / her teaching (Introduction, presentation, recapitulation) and concerned teacher / supervisor assesses / observes his / her lesson. Evaluation of Teaching Practice In order to evaluate the teaching practice supervisor observes the student teacher while teaching in the classroom. Supervisor evaluates / observes the punctuality, lesson planning, teaching methods, use of audio visual aids, adequacy of audio visual aids, pitch of voice, dress, start and end of lesson, interest of the students, discipline of class, use of black / white board, students’ notebooks and objectives of the lesson. Participation in other Routine Works of School Teaching in classroom is not the only objective of teaching practice, but also to provide training in all activities which student teachers are going to perform in future during their job as a professional teachers. For this purpose they have to spend whole day in school as teacher. They have to participate in all the activities of school e. g. preparation of timetable, preparation and maintenance of different registers, evaluation of class work and home work, arrangement of tutorial groups, sports / games, morning assembly, co-curricular activities, duty during recess, duty as day master, duty before and after school timing, decoration of classroom, preparation and maintenance of attendance board, news board, information board, look after and arrangements of A V aids room, home economics room, science laboratories and library. How to deal with students’ parents, officers of the school, school employees and guests are also the part of teaching practice. Duties as invigilators, preparation of question papers for examinations, evaluation of answer scripts and compilation of results is also part of teaching practice. 343 Aijaz Ahmed Gujjar, Bushra Naoreen Saifullah SAIFI Muhammad Jamil Bajwa Role of Supervisor in Teaching Practice Supervisor’s duty is not only to evaluate the lessons of teaching practice, but by using his/her all the abilities to make this experience (All the stages of teaching practice) result oriented. He/she should have got all the activities planned before hand. He/she should have meeting and conversion with teacher educators, experienced teachers of the institution, educationists, concerned school head teachers and other teachers. Introductory lectures should be arranged before the departure of student teachers to the practicing schools in order to aware the student teachers about the preparation of lesson plans and other assigned activities. During teaching practice it is the duty of supervisors to supervise their lessons, other assigned activities, guidance and counselling as well as provide the student teachers with feed back and to enable them so that they can criticize and reform themselves. During the teaching practice student teachers should not be criticized in front of the practicing school staff and students. If there is a need then all the student teachers should be gathered and should be scolded and warned without nominating and asking the name. Supervisors’ role is to prepare teachers for future, therefore he / she should act as a facilitator. Teaching Practice in Pakistan A variety of teacher training courses are being offered in Pakistan. In all the programmes teaching practice is compulsory component except M. Ed (Master of Education). In true spirit we can produce good teachers through this activity, but the procedure adopted in Pakistan is just to pass / kill the time. Teaching practice duration is very short; it is about 4 to 8 weeks or teaching of 60 to 75 lessons. During teaching practice student teachers are bound to the classrooms for teaching. They are not trained for the other activities performed in schools. Therefore, effective learning could not take place. Student teachers are bound to use easy principles and methods of teaching. They are just being taught how to start the lesson, how to control the class, how to keep an eye over the students while writing on the black / white board. 344 International Online Journal of Educational Sciences, 2010, 2(2), 339-361 Teaching practice is doing nothing to serve the purpose and is working on adhoc basis. Those schools in which teaching practice is being conducted are not taking active part in preparing the teachers for future but only tolerating this activity. The administration and teachers of the participating schools are not aware of the required information for evaluation techniques, which are to be used during teaching practice. They are not fully aware of the importance of teaching practice for student teachers and future generations. It is fact that student teachers are not ideal teachers and due to this fact practicing school teachers cannot give them full authority but at least they can trust them. Practically two behaviours are seen here in Pakistan. Firstly these uninvited guests are considered inferior teachers and criticized without any justification. Secondly some teachers transfer their all burden to them. In some teacher training institutions selection of lessons is kept up to the choice of student teachers and they select such lessons which are very easy and in which minimum audio visual aids are used. Research Questions 1. 2. 3. What are the issues and problems of teaching practice in Pakistan? How do the prospective teachers view the trends of teaching practice in Pakistan? How far does the Practice Teaching help the student teachers in anticipating the problems they might face in their professional lives? Research Methodology Population and Sampling The population of the study consisted of all the prospective teachers who are admitted to B. Ed programme in public sector institutions in four provinces of Pakistan. 650 prospective teachers were considered as the sample of the study. These students were selected from 26 teacher training institutions, 25 students from each institute. 345 Aijaz Ahmed Gujjar, Bushra Naoreen Saifullah SAIFI Muhammad Jamil Bajwa Research Tool Development and Data Collection Since the study was descriptive in nature, therefore, survey approach was considered appropriate to collect the data. For the purpose, a twenty seven item questionnaire was developed out of which seven had the option of â€Å"yes† and â€Å"No; while the remaining 20 items had three options as â€Å"Maximum†, â€Å"To some extent† and â€Å"Not at all†. Administration of Research Tool The questionnaires were administered on prospective teachers personally and responses were received. Data Analysis The data collected through questionnaire was terms of percentage and mean scores. coded and analyzed through SPSS XII in Findings Data collected through the questionnaire was analyzed in terms of percentage and mean score. The findings drawn out from the data analysis are given below. Table 1. I agree with the importance attached to practice teaching. Yes Number of Responses Percentage 87. 6% 12. 4% 569 No 81 650 Total Above table reveals that 87. 6% prospective teachers responded that they agree with the importance of teaching practice and 12. 4% responded in negative. 346 International Online Journal of Educational Sciences, 2010, 2(2), 339-361 Table 2. There is clarity of concepts before the actual process of teaching. Yes Number of Responses Percentage 487 No 163 650 74. 97% 25. 03% Total Above table reveals that 74. 7% prospective teachers reported that they have been given orientation before the start of teaching practice and 25. 03% reported in not. Table 3. The help extended by the Parent institution was quite appropriate. Yes Number of Responses Percentage 63. 54% 25. 46% 413 No 237 650 Total Above table shows 63. 54% respondents were in favour that department /institute extended help provided the criteria for the evaluation of the teaching practice and 25. 47% are not in favour. Table 4. It helps when you replicate the assessment and evaluation procedure adopted by your teachers during the theoretical sessions. Yes Number of Responses Percentage 65. 38% 34. 62% 425 No 225 650 Total 347 Aijaz Ahmed Gujjar, Bushra Naoreen Saifullah SAIFI Muhammad Jamil Bajwa Above table reveals that 69. 38% prospective teachers are in favour that they have been provided with the manual of rules and regulation regarding teaching practice and 34. 62% not reported in favour. Table 5. The school provided the necessary infrastructure and the attitude of the staff was encouraging. Yes Number of Responses Percentage 56% 44% 364 No 286 650 Total Above table reveals that 56% respondents have responded in favour that attitude of the staff was encouraging and 44% not responded in favour. Table 6. Peer co-operation develops critical thinking and polishes teaching skills. Yes Number of Responses Percentage 56. 46% 43. 54% 367 No 283 650 Total Above table shows that 56. 46% have reported that they have been provided with separate staff room in the practicing school during teaching practice and 43. 54% reported in negative. Table 7. The school staff often visits the classrooms and gives informative tips. Yes Number of Responses Percentage 54. 6% 45. 24% 348 No 294 Total 356 650 International Online Journal of Educational Sciences, 2010, 2(2), 339-361 Above table reveals that 54. 76% respondents are affirmative that the staff of practicing school is cooperative and 45. 24% are not affirmative. Table 8. Appropriate information in orientation about teaching practice. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 36. 92% 20. 76% 42. 30% 240 T o Some Extent 135 Not at All 275 650 1. 94 Total Mean Above table reveals that 36. 92%respondents responded for maximum, 20. 76% for to some extent and 42. 30% for not at all and mean score is 1. 4, which shows that appropriate information about teaching practice are mostly not given in orientation. Table 9. The school administration paid due consideration to my preferences while allocating the classes. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 48% 10. 30% 41. 69% 312 To Some Extent 67 Not at All 271 650 2. 06 Total Mean Above table reveals that 48% prospective teachers opted for maximum, 10. 30% for to some extent and 41. 69% for not at all and mean score is 2. 06, which supports that choice of prospective teachers are mostly not considered for assigning the lesson. Table 10. From the attitude of the school administration, I got a fair experience of how to organize a school. Maximum To Some Extent Not at All Total Mean Number of Responses Percentage 30. 15% 11. 07% 58. 76% 349 196 72 382 650 1. 71 Aijaz Ahmed Gujjar, Bushra Naoreen Saifullah SAIFI Muhammad Jamil Bajwa Above table reveals that 30. 15% respondents are in favour of maximum, 11. 07% in favour of to some extent and 58. 76% are in favour of not at all, the mean score is 1. 71 which supports that attitude of school administration do not provide a fair experience about the organization of school. Table11. There is a sufficient availability of Audio-Visual Aids. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 11. 05% 21. 56% 67. 38% 72 To Some Extent 140 Not at All 438 650 1. 44 Total Mean Above table shows that 11. 05% respondents opted for maximum, 21. 56% for to some extent and 67. 38% for not at all, the mean score is 1. 44. This shows that audio visual aids are not available in the practicing school. Table 12. The Supervisors were quite frequent in their visits to the schools. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 50. 92% 19. 69% 29. 38% 331 To Some Extent 128 Not at All 191 650 2. 21 Total Mean Above table reveals that 60. 92% respondents opted for maximum, 19. 69% for to some extent and 29. 38 %for not at all, the mean score is2. 21 which shows that mostly each lesson plan is checked and remarks are given by the supervisors. 350 International Online Journal of Educational Sciences, 2010, 2(2), 339-361 Table13. The supervisors regularly assessed the lesson plans before the start of the classes. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 37. 23% 39. 53% 23. 07% 242 To Some Extent 257 Not at All 150 650 2. 14 Total Mean Above table reveals that 37. 23% respondents opted for maximum, 39. 3% for to some extent and 23. 07% for not at all, the mean score is 2. 14. This shows that to some extent supervisors regularly assessed the lesson plans before the start of the classes. Table14. The supervisors visited the classes regularly. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 26. 50% 44. 61% 28. 92% 172 To Some Extent 290 Not at All 188 650 1. 98 Total Mean Above table reveals that 26. 50% re spondents opted for maximum, 44. 61% for to some extent and 28. 92% for not at all, the mean score is 1. 98. This shows that supervisor did not visit the classes regularly. Table15. The supervisors often discuss the ongoing teaching practice with the school administration. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 41. 69% 25. 84% 32. 46% 271 To Some Extent 168 Not at All 211 650 2. 09 Total Mean 351 Aijaz Ahmed Gujjar, Bushra Naoreen Saifullah SAIFI Muhammad Jamil Bajwa Above table reveals that 41. 69% respondents favoured for maximum, 25. 84% to some extent and 32. 46% not at all. The mean score is 2. 09, which show that supervisors often discuss the ongoing teaching practice with the school administration. Table16. Teaching practice scheduled is strictly followed. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 50% 25. 23% 24. 76% 325 To Some Extent 164 Not at All 161 650 2. 25 Total Mean Above table shows that 53. 06% respondents opted for maximum, 32. 65% to some extent and 14. 29 not at all. The mean score is 2. 39, which supports that mostly teaching practice scheduled is strictly followed. Table17. I got enough experience and knowledge of delivering the lessons and organizing the classes. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 35. 53% 40 % 24. 46% 231 To Some Extent 260 Not at All 159 650 1. 80 Total Mean Above table shows that 38. 3% respondents are in favour of maximum, 40% to some extent and 24. 46% to not at all. The mean score is 1. 80, which proves that mostly student teachers got enough experience and knowledge of delivering the lessons and organizing the classes. 352 International Online Journal of Educational Sciences, 2010, 2(2), 339-361 Table18. There were enough chances for development of awareness as far as Teaching Skills are concern ed Maximum To Some Extent Not at All Total Mean Number of Responses Percentage 64. 92% 22% 13. 07% 422 143 85 650 2. 58 Above table reveals that 64. 2% respondents opted for maximum, 22% for to some extent and 13. 07% for not at all. The mean score is 2. 58, which proves that mostly there were enough chances for development of awareness as far as teaching skills are concerned. Table19. Performance Assessment should take place during Teaching Practice. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 35. 23% 22. 30% 42. 46% 229 To Some Extent 145 Not at All 276 650 1. 92 Total Mean The above table reveals that 35. 23% respondents are in favour of maximum, 22. 30% in favour of to some extent and 32. 46% in favour of not at all. The mean score is 1. 2, which shows that the evaluation process for teaching practice is not satisfactory. Table 20. There was a possibility of shifting the Methods from one to the other during the classes Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 22% 50% 28% 353 To Some Ex tent 325 Not at All 182 Total Mean 143 650 2. 05 Aijaz Ahmed Gujjar, Bushra Naoreen Saifullah SAIFI Muhammad Jamil Bajwa Above table shows that 22% respondents are in favour of maximum, 50% to some extent and 28% not at all. The mean score is 2. 05; this shows that all the teaching methods and techniques studied theoretically were applied practically to some extent. Table 21. There is a need to improve the quality of teaching practice to meet the latest challenges. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 62. 61% 18. 15% 19. 23% 407 To Some Extent 118 Not at All 125 650 2. 43 Total Mean Above table shows that 62. 61% respondents opted for maximum, 18. 15% for to some extent and 19. 23% for not at all. The mean score is 2. 43, which shows that there is a dire need to improve the quality of teaching practice to meet the latest challenges. Table 22. There was an opportunity after the teaching practice to discuss the problems with the teachers and give suggestions Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 19. 3% 18. 15% 62. 61% 125 To Some Extent 118 Not at All 407 650 1. 56 Total Mean Above table indicates that 19. 23% respondents are in favour of maximum, 18. 15% are in favour of to some extent and 62. 61% in favour of not at all. The mean score is 1. 56, this shows that there was not an opportunity after the teaching practice to discuss the problems with the te achers and give suggestions. 354 International Online Journal of Educational Sciences, 2010, 2(2), 339-361 Table 23. Given the choice, I shall change the techniques and methods I had employed during teaching practice. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 46. 15% 19. 23% 34. 61% 300 To Some Extent 125 Not at All 225 650 2. 11 Total Mean Above table indicates that 46. 15% respondents are in favour of maximum, 19. 23% are in favour of to some extent and 34. 61% in favour of not at all. The mean score is 2. 11, which shows that mostly students used different methods and techniques during teaching practice. Table 24. More time should be devoted to preparing teachers before teaching practice starts. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 64. 61% 30. 76% 4. 61% 420 To Some Extent 200 Not at All 30 650 2. 0 Total Mean Above table indicates that 64. 61% respondents are in favour of maximum, 30. 76% are in favour of to some extent and 4. 61% in favour of not at all. The mean score is 2. 60, which shows that students are strongly of the view that more time should be devoted to preparing teachers before teaching practice starts. 355 Aijaz Ahmed Gujjar, Bushra Naoreen Saifullah SAIFI Muhammad Jamil Bajwa Ta ble 25. The student teachers should be allowed to sit in each other’s classes to observe strengths and weaknesses. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 65. 53% 24. 92% 9. 3% 426 To Some Extent 162 Not at All 62 650 2. 56 Total Mean Above table indicates that 65. 53% respondents are in favour of maximum, 24. 92% are in favour of to some extent and 9. 53% in favour of not at all. The mean score is 2. 56, which shows that students are strongly of the view that student teachers should be allowed to sit in each other’s classes to observe strengths and weaknesses. Table 26. I had the availability of all the instructional material that I needed. Maximum Number of Responses Percentage 30. 76% 11. 53% 57. 69% 200 To Some Extent 75 Not at All 375 650 1. 73 Total Mean Above table indicates that 30. 76% respondents are in favour of maximum, 11. 53% are in favour of to some extent and 57. 69% in favour of not at all. The mean score is 1. 73, which shows that students did not have the availability of all the instructional material that they needed. Table 27. Overall, I am satisfied with the quality of teaching practice as conducted in Pakistan. Maximum To Some Extent Not at All Total Mean Number of Responses Percentage 26. 92% 19. 23% 53. 84% 175 125 350 650 1. 73 356 International Online Journal of Educational Sciences, 2010, 2(2), 339-361 Above table indicates that 26. 2% respondents are in favour of maximum, 19. 23% are in favour of to some extent and 53. 84% in favour of not at all. The mean score is 1. 73, which shows that students are not satisfied with the quality of teaching practice as conducted in Pakistan. Discussion Teaching practice is a compulsory component in teacher training programme, but some respondents were denied to have it, one possible reason might be that their institution did not send them for the purpose. Government of Pakistan (2003) states that quality education requires motivated and competent teachers at all levels. Teaching practice is a segment, which provides opportunity to prospective teachers; apply theoretical knowledge practically in real situation. The importance of teaching practice is not recognized practically in the teacher training institutions of Pakistan. Government of Pakistan (1998) accepted that the existing teacher education programme as considered is not being adequately responsive to the demands for quality in the school system. Objective, manual, orientation, rules and regulation of teaching practice are neither prepared nor supplied properly. These are prepared in few institutions but not supplied to all concerned person of the teaching practice. Rashid (1999) quoted that an objective is more specific and describes definite activities. Application of all methods and techniques are very essential for quality training, developing confidence, competency and skills, which are helpful in transfer of learning and knowledge comprehensively. But in prevailing situation teaching practice is based on conventional style. There is no use of latest techniques; the departments/ institutions are also not providing A V aids and other helping material. The role of supervisors in the teaching practice is very rare. The supervisors do not provide proper guidance. Supervisors are seen over loaded and sufficient facilities and incentives are also not being provided by the departments/institutions. Issani and Virk (2004) describe that due to lack of adequate training facilities for university teachers the present position of teacher with proper professional competencies and training is alarming low. 357 Aijaz Ahmed Gujjar, Bushra Naoreen Saifullah SAIFI Muhammad Jamil Bajwa Evaluation and assessment criteria is also very formal like satisfactory, unsatisfactory, good, very good or marks % etc. during evaluation all the aspects of teaching skills are not being considered. The segment of teaching practice in teacher training institution is not considered seriously. Modern techniques are neither supplied nor applied. Rafaquat (2002) quoted that mostly the teacher training institution are following lecture methods. It is recommended to adopt modern and better teaching training methodology like demonstration, discovery or participation methods to attain qualitative improvement. The duration of teacher training should be lengthened to develop favourable attitudes of prospective teachers towards teaching profession. It is need of the new trends of education to improve the quality of teaching practice. New inventions demand that teachers must be well trained, having latest knowledge and be able to apply the new approaches with latest technology. Quality of education and implementation of all policies and plans are depended upon the motivated and quality based teachers. Duration of teaching practice is short. It is not up to the international standard. Farooq (1990) who has pointed out short duration of teacher training programme as compared with the developed countries. Rafaquat (2002) who reported that the duration of teaching practice of teaching may be increased according to the programme of training. The quality of teaching practice may be improved by providing adequate human: physical resources and special consideration must be given to the practical components of teacher training programme for producing quality teachers. Conclusions Teaching practice is an activity, which can play an important role in preparing teachers for future challenges in a classroom. Its effectiveness for the nation is beyond any doubt. It is a milestone for professional adolescence. It is a fuel for an endless journey and a combination of personality, professional skills, knowledge and training. Now it is the duty/responsibility of teacher educators and teachers of practicing schools to make this fuel endless. Brief conclusions on the basis of the findings are as follows. Most of the respondents agreed that manual of rules and regulations of teaching practice were not provided to the 358 International Online Journal of Educational Sciences, 2010, 2(2), 339-361 rospective teachers before going to practicing schools. The supervisors neither indicated shortcomings in the lesson plan nor did they assess practically each lesson of the prospective teachers on daily basis. Objectives of teaching practice were not prepared properly and supplied to all the concerned in writing. Before commencing the teaching practice, orientation was not given to prospective teachers and the concerned staff, where they could be able to share the ambiguities regarding procedure, manual and evaluation process. Time table/schedule of the teaching practice was strictly followed by the departments/institutions but evaluation and supervision criteria were not up to the mark. The interest and choices of the prospective teachers were not considered while assigning the period and timetable during the teaching practice. Feedback from the participating school, administration, supervisors and prospective teachers was not taken so the practice could not play an effective role to develop confidence, vision and competency in the prospective teachers. Recommendations Rules and regulations of teaching practice should be defined by the institutions before the student teachers go for teaching practice. It will not only help the student teachers but also the supervisors to achieve the predefined targets. Specific teachers should be appointed by the concerning departments to observe teaching of student teachers so that they may stay whole day in school to check the activities of the students and comment honestly. Orientations should be given to the student teachers before teaching practice so prepare them mentally for the challenges coming in their way during teaching practice. Teaching practice should be given proper weight age. Students should be informed before hand the process of evaluation of teaching practice so that the teacher students may try their best to improve their performance consciously. It seems that student teachers are not satisfied with their time table and periods during their teaching practice. Institutions should properly contact schools before starting teaching practice and set their time table according to students’ choice other wise students should be prepared accordingly. It would be a good practice if institutions develop permanent sort of links with some specific schools to adjust their students instead of selecting schools haphazardly to improve this 359 Aijaz Ahmed Gujjar, Bushra Naoreen Saifullah SAIFI Muhammad Jamil Bajwa practice and to make it more effective. School administration can be cooperative if it finds some kind of incentive in it for their school otherwise it might think that student teachers are there only to disturb the school. Feedback from student teachers regarding the problems faced by them in schools should be considered important to improve the practice for next time. Institutions should try to fill the gap between theory and practice because some times the situation in schools is different to that taught to the students in theory so to save the student teachers from any sort of bewilderment. References Akbar, R. A. (2002). A study of Teaching practice of Prospective Secondary School Teachers and Development of a Teaching practice Model, Arid Agricultural University, Rawalpindi (Unpublished PhD Thesis). Ali Murtaza, (2005). Comparative Study of Practice Teaching in Formal and Non formal Systems and Development of a Model, Arid Agricultural University, Rawalpindi (Unpublished PhD Thesis). Brwn, P. D. Brown N. R. (1990). Effective Teaching Practice. Stanley Thornes, England Cohen, A. Carver, N. (1970). A Students’ Guide to Teaching Practice. University of London Press, London. Cohen, L. Manion, L. (1983). A Guide to Teaching Practice. Methuen, London. Government of Pakistan (1998). National Education Policy 1998-2010, Ministry of Education, Islamabad. Government of Pakistan (2003). Islamabad. Furlong, V. J. ; P. U. Hirst and K. Pocklington. (1988). Initial Teacher Training and The Role of the School. Open University Press, Philadelphia. Education for all 2001-2015, Ministry of Education, 360 International Online Journal of Educational Sciences, 2010, 2(2), 339-361 Govt. of Pakistan. (1997). Pakistan Vision 2010. Report; Seminar on Education. Planning and Development Division, Islamabad. Issani, C, U. A. G M, L, Virk (2004). Higher Education in Pakistan: A Historical and Futuristic Perspective, National Book Foundation, Islamabad. Malik, S. R. (1992). The System of education in Pakistan. National Book Foundation, Lahore. Muhammad Ashraf (1990). Dictionary of Primary Education. A. P. H. Publishing Corporation, New Delhi. R, A, Farooq (1994). Education System in Pakistan: Issues and Problems, Asia Society for Promotion of Innovation and Reforms in Education, Islamabad. Rashid, M (1999). Teaching Strategies, Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad. Shah, R. A. (1995). Education and Teacher education in Pakistan. Pakistan study Centre, University of Sindh, Jamshoro. Taneja, R. P. (2000). Encyclopaedia of Comparative Education, Vol. 4. Anmol Publications Pvt. Ltd. , New Delhi. 361

Ethnic Diversity in the Uk Essay Example for Free

Ethnic Diversity in the Uk Essay Immigration, annexation, and colonialism are processes that may create subordinate groups. Other processes such as extermination and expulsion may remove the presence of a subordinate group. Significant for racial and ethnic oppression in the United States today is the distinction between assimilation and pluralism. Assimilation demands subordinate-group conformity to the dominant group, and pluralism implies mutual respect among diverse groups. The definition of ethnicity people value differently for each of the primary and secondary factors Primary whether it be Race, Nationality, Language, Religion, Perceived Ethnic Identity. Secondary whether it be Social status, residential concentrations, age, gender and caste. The processes which create and maintain ethnic diversity are such as Colonisation, annexation and international migration showing the role of those processes that create ethnic diversity in one country. The problems that come with the processes is ethnic diversity whether it be Segregation, pluralism, multiculturalism and discrimination that also shows the economic, social and spatial outcomes of ethnic diversity’ showing the role of these processes and their outcomes for one ethnically diverse city. The problem with Britain is that has been colonised over the centuries by various groups from Romans (introducing the catholic religion as a new ethnicity) the introduction of one of the first colonial powers to rule the British empire. The British isles came together as a political unit through annexation over a number of centuries culminating in Ireland. First wave of Immigrants was in the mid nineteenth century when thousands of Irish fled the potato famine and came to cities with major ports e. g. Liverpool in aid of work and living this is classified as international migration. Most significant increase in ethnic diversity in Britain started in the 1950s. During two world wars hundreds of thousands of men from across the empire had fought for Britain. India alone provided 1. 3 million soldiers. During these years many remained in Britain, forming small ethnic communities in ports this was due to India being a colonial country under British rule. A Number of Jewish immigrants also fled to Britain from the nazi oppression in Europe. At the end of the WWII there work shortages throughout Europe and Britain. 157,000 polish immigrants arrived in Britain in search of work. Shortly after where joined by the Italians but there was still a labour shortage and eventually workers were recruited from the colonies this is all international migration due to it being an economical climate issue. 22nd June 1948, the empire wind rush brought the first of many West Indians to live and work in Britain during the 1950s. In 1956, London transport was struggling to find workers so advertised in Barbados, Trinidad and Jamaica for bus drivers and conductors. More and more immigrants flocked to Britain throughout the years from Barbadians, West Indians in 1958 and in the 1960s they were joined by immigrants from Indian sub continent which had become India, west and east Pakistan, following independence from Britain. The new immigrants were different to the rest as instead of flocking to the port areas they moved to the London area filling low paid, unskilled jobs in factories and the service sector. Car engineering in car manufacturers in the West Midlands were another focus. They frequently established clusters or neighbourhoods in the poorest areas in the inner cities Toxteth in Liverpool, Brixton and Bethnal Green in London. In most cases the new immigrants eventually established their own places of worship and other ethnic services. These new immigrants were not welcomed easily into British society and there were protests at their arrival. The government reacted by amending the British nationality Act to make it more difficult for non white immigrants to bring their family members with them. In spit of this, the numbers of non-white residents continued to grow and by 1970 they numbered 1. 5 million, one third of these were children born in Britain. Racial prejudice was quite widespread and there were racially motivated riots in the 1980s. Riots were started by claims that ethnic minorities, especially black male youths, were being targeted by the police. These minorities are being represented by racial unequal treatment. The amount of ethnics taking and filling British jobs is causing ethnic conflict between white Caucasian. conflict sociologists see the social world as being in continual struggle. The conflict perspective assumes that the social structure is best understood in terms of conflict or tension between the competing groups within Britain. The result of this conflict is significant economic disparity and structural inequality in education, the labor market, housing, and healthcare delivery. Specifically, society is a struggle between the privileged (the dominant group) and the exploited (the subordinate groups). Such conflicts need not be physically violent and may take the form of immigration restrictions, real estate practices, or disputes over cuts in the federal budget.

Importance Of Communication Of Nurses Nursing Essay

Importance Of Communication Of Nurses Nursing Essay Communication involves the exchange of messages and is a process which all individuals participate in. Whether it is through spoken word, written word, non-verbal means or even silence, messages are constantly being exchanged between individuals or groups of people (Bach Grant 2009). All behaviour has a message and communication is a process which individuals cannot avoid being involved with (Ellis et al 1995). In nursing practice, communication is essential, and good communication skills are paramount in the development of a therapeutic nurse/patient relationship. This aim of this essay is to discuss the importance of communication in nursing, demonstrating how effective communication facilitates a therapeutic nurse/patient relationship. This will be achieved by providing a definition of communication, making reference to models of communication and explaining how different types of communication skills can be used in practise. In order to engage in meaningful communication and develop effective communication skills, nurses must engage in the process of reflecting on how communication skills are utilised in practise. Reflection allows the nurse opportunity to gain a deeper insight into personal strengths and weaknesses and to address any areas of concern in order to improve future practise (Taylor 2001). A further aim will be to reflect on how communication skills have been utilised within nursing practise. Various models of reflection will be examined, and a reflective account of a personal experience which occurred during placement will be provided using a model. This reflective account will involve a description the incident, an analysis of thoughts and feelings and an evaluation of what has occurred. Finally, the reflective account will include an action plan for a similar situation, which may arise, in the future. Communication involves information being sent, received and decoded between two or more people (Balzer-Riley 2008) and involves the use of a number of communication skills; which in a nursing context generally focuses on listening and giving information to patients (Weller 2002). This process of sending and receiving messages has been described as both simple and complex (Rosengren 2000 in McCabe 2006, p.4). It is a process which is continually utilised by nurses to convey and receive information from the patient, co-workers, others they come into contact with and the patients family. Models of Communication. The Linear Model is the simplest form of communication and involves messages being sent and received by two or more people (McCabe 2006). Whilst this model demonstrates how communication occurs in its simplest form, it fails to consider other factors impacting on the process. Communication in nursing practice can be complicated, involving the conveyance of large amounts of information, for example, when providing patients with information relating to their care and treatment or when offering health promotion advice. In contrast, the Circular Transactional Model is a two way approach, acknowledging other factors, which influence communication such as feedback and validation (McCabe 2006). Elements of this model are also contained in Hargie and Dickinsons (2004) A Skill Model of Interpersonal Communication which suggests that successful communication is focused, purposeful and identifies the following skills; person centred context, goal, mediating process, response, feedback and perception. It also considers other aspects of the individual and the influence these may have on their approach to the process of communication (McCabe 2006). For communication to be effective it is important for the nurse to recognise key components, and intrinsic and extrinsic factors, which may affect the process (McCabe 2006). They must consider factors such as past personal experiences, personal perceptions, timing and the setting in which communication occurs. Physical, physiological, psychological and semantic noise may also influence the message, resulting in misinterpreted by the receiver (McCabe 2006). Communication skills. Communication consists of verbal and non-verbal. Verbal communication relates to the spoken word and can be conducted face-to-face or over the telephone (Docherty McCallum 2009). Nurses continually communicate with patients; verbal communication allows the nurse opportunity to give information to the patient about their care or treatment, to reassure the patient and to listen and respond to any concerns the patient may have (NMC 2008). Effective communication is beneficial to the patient in terms of their satisfaction and understanding, of care and treatment they have been given (Arnold Boggs 2007), while at the same time optimising the outcomes or care and/or treatment for the patient (Kennedy- Sheldon 2009). Questioning allows the nurse to gather further information and open or closed questions can be used. Closed questions usually require a yes or no response and are used to gather the necessary information, whereas open questions allow the patient, opportunity to play an active role and to discuss and agree options relating to their care as set out in the Healthcare Standards for Wales document (2005). Probing questions can be used to explore the patients problems further thus allowing the nurse to treat the patient as an individual and develop a care plan specific to their individual needs (NMC 2008). It is vital that the nurse communicates effectively, sharing information with the patient about their health in an understandable way to ensure the patient is fully informed about their care and treatment and that consent is gained prior to this occurring (NMC 2008). The nurse should also listen to the patient and respond to their concerns and preferences about their care and well-being (NMC 2008). In nursing, listening is an essential skill and incorporates attending and listening (Burnard Gill 2007). Attending; fully focusing on the other person and being aware of what they are trying to communicate and listening; the process of hearing what is being said by another person are the most important aspects of being a nurse (Burnard 1997). Non-verbal communication is a major factor in communication, involving exchange of messages without words. It relates to emotional states and attitudes and the conveyance of messages through body language; body language has seven elements; gesture, facial expressions, gaze, posture, body space and proximity, touch and dress (Ellis et al 1995). Each of these elements can reinforce the spoken word and add meaning to the message; it isnt about what you say or how you say it but it also relates to what your body is doing while you are speaking (Oberg 2003). Patients often read cues from the nurses non-verbal behaviour, which can indicate interest or disinterest. Attentiveness and attention to the patient can be achieved through SOLER: S sit squarely, O Open posture, L learn towards the patient, E eye contact, R relax (Egan 2002). There must be congruency between verbal and non verbal messages for effective communication to be achieved. Non-verbal communication can contradict the spoken word and the ability to recognise these non-verbal cues is vitally important in nursing practice (McCabe 2006), for example, a patient may verbally communicate that they are not in pain, but their non-verbal communication such as facial expression may indicate otherwise. It is also important for the nurse to be aware of the congruency of their verbal and non-verbal communication. Any discrepancies between the two will have a direct influence on the message they are giving to patients, and may jeopardise the nurse/patient relationship. Other factors may affect communication in a negative way, endangering the process, and nurses must be aware of internal and external barriers (Schubert 2003). Lack of interest, poor listening skills, culture and the personal attitude are internal factors, which may affect the process. External barriers such as the physical environment, temperature, the use of jargon and/or technical words can also negatively influence the process (Schubert 2003). Reflection. To fully assess the development of communication skills the nurse can make use of reflection to gain a better insight and understanding of their skills (Siviter 2008). Reflection can also be used to apply theoretical knowledge to practice, thus bridging the gap between theory and practice (Burns Bulman 2000) and allows us opportunity, to develop a better insight and awareness of our actions both conscious and unconscious in the situation. Reflecting on events that take place in practice, allows opportunity not only to think about what we do, but also to consider why we do things. This helps us to learn from the experience and improve our future nursing practice (Siviter 2008). Reflection can be described as either reflection in action; occurring during the event, or reflection on action; which happens after the event has occurred (Taylor 2001) and is guided by a model, which serves as a framework within, which the nurse is able to work. It is usually a written process, and the use o f a reflective model uses questions to provide a structure and guide for the process (Siviter 2008). Reflective Models. There are numerous reflective models that may be utilised by the nursing professional, for example, Gibbs Reflective Cycle (1988), Johns Model of Structured Reflection (1994) and Driscolls Model of Reflection (2002). Gibbs model (Appendix I) has a cyclical approach, consisting of six stages per cycle that guide the user through a series of questions, providing a structure for reflection on an experience. The first stage of the process is a descriptive account of the situation; what happened? Followed by an analysis of thoughts and feelings in the second stage; what were your thoughts and feelings? The third and fourth stages involve an evaluation of the situation, what was good and/or bad about the experience and an analysis allowing us to make sense of the situation. The last two stages are the conclusion of the situation, what else could have been done and finally an action plan to prepare for similar situations, which may arise in the future (Gibbs 1988). Similarly to Gibbs Reflective Cycle, Johns Model of Structured Reflection (Appendix II) and Driscolls (Appendix III) model of reflection promote learning through reflection. They have similar structures, which guide the user through the reflective process. Johns Model incorporates four stages; description, reflection, alternative actions and learning (Johns 1994) and Discolls model has three stages: a return to the situation, understanding the context and modifying future outcome (Discoll 2002). The three models described all have similarities in that the user is guided through the reflective process by describing the event, analysing their thoughts, feelings and actions and making plans for future practice. Considering the models of reflection described, the next component of this essay will make use of the Gibbs Reflective Cycle (1998) to provide a reflective account of a situation which I experienced during clinical placement in a community setting. Reflective Account. As part of this placement, I assisted my mentor, a health visitor, in the provision of a baby club for parents with babies and pre-school children, which takes place on a weekly basis and involves routine checks, such as baby-weighing, in addition to opportunity, for parents to socialise and opportunity for health visitors to provide information relating to the care and health of babies and children. During the second week of this placement, I was asked to assist in the delivery of a forthcoming health promotion session relating to dental health. I have chosen this event as a basis for my reflective account as I feel that health promotion is an important area to consider. It enables individuals to play a pivotal role in their own health (Webster and Finch 2002 in Scriven 2005) and is a means by which positive health can be promoted and enhanced alongside the prevention of illness (Downie et al 2000). It gives clients the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health and prevention of illness and is an area in which the nurse or healthcare professional plays a key role (WHO 1989). Description of the event. The event occurred during a weekly session at baby club that takes place in a community centre. My mentor (Health Visitor) and I were present along with a group of ten mothers and their babies. As this event took place during a group session, I will maintain confidentiality (NMC 2008) by not referring to any one individual. Consent was gained from all clients prior to the session commencing, in line with the NMC Code of Conduct (2008) and the environment was checked to ensure it was appropriate and safe for the session to take place. The aim of the session was to promote good dental health and oral hygiene amongst children and babies. Standard 1 of the Standards of Care for Health Visitors (RCN 1989) is to promote health, and the session aimed to provide clients with relevant, up-to-date information, thus allowing them to make informed choices about the future care of their childrens teeth. Chairs were set out in a semi-circle with a number of play mats and various baby toys placed in the centre. This allowed parents opportunity to interact in the session, to listen to the information and ask questions while at the same time being in close enough proximity to their children to respond to their needs. The Health Visitor and I sat at the front of the semi circle facing the group. I reintroduced myself to the group and gave a brief explanation of my role and the part I would play in the session. This was important; some of the clients were meeting me for the first time, and it is during this initial contact that jud gements are made about future interactions, and the service being provided. Positive initial interaction can provide a good foundation for a future beneficial relationship (Scriven 2005). The session was broken down into two parts: information giving, focusing on the promotion of dental health and prevention of illness in the form of tooth decay (Robotham and Frost 2005). Secondly, information relating to tooth brushing was given along with a demonstration undertaken by myself that showed the clients good oral hygiene could be achieved through effective tooth brushing. A question and answer session followed which allowed us to clarify any issues raised. Feelings and thoughts. In the week, preceding the session it was important for me to consider a systematic approach to the planning of the session. The first stage was to gather relevant, up-to-date information relating to the subject and plan how it could be incorporated in the session. The NMC Standards of Proficiency (2004a) states that nurses must engage in a continual process of learning and that evidence-based practice should be used (Bach and Grant 2009). The plan was discussed with my mentor and advice was sought about any adjustments which may be necessary. Prior to the session, I was apprehensive about delivering a health promotion session to clients (patients). I as I felt out of my depth as a first year student and my anxiety was exacerbated further as this was my first placement. However, support and encouragement from my mentor and other health visitors in the team helped me to relax. I was given the opportunity to discuss the topic with my mentor and was relieved when I was able to respond to any questions asked in an appropriate manner and that my knowledge had been increased through the research I had undertaken, thus boosting my confidence. Evaluation. Despite my initial reservation about my knowledge of the subject and apprehension at delivering a health promotion session, I feel that my mentors decision to include me in the delivery of the session benefitted me greatly in the development of my knowledge and self confidence. During the session, I feel that I communicated well verbally with clients and that my non-verbal communication was appropriate and corresponded to what I was saying. The clients were focused on the session and seemed genuinely interested, nodding when they understood and showed attentiveness by making regular eye contact. Feedback from clients after the session also allowed me to reflect on my communication; one of the clients stated afterwards that she had gained a lot from the session particularly the demonstration relating to tooth brushing and was now more aware of the importance of early oral hygiene to prevent problems later in the childs life. Analysis. Dental Health is a key Health Promotion target in Wales and is the most prevalent form of disease amongst children in Wales. Many of the participants were unaware of when and how childrens teeth should be cared for and the importance of ensuring good oral hygiene from an early age. The aim of the session was to provide information to parents as a means of promoting good oral hygiene and prevention of tooth decay in babies and young children. In order for the aim to be achieved, communication was a key element. Effective communication in a group can only be achieved if there is trust, participation, co-operation and collaboration among its members and the belief that they as a group are able to perform effectively as a group (Balzer-Riley 2008). The information was provided in a way that was easily understandable, a demonstration of how teeth should be brushed was given, and time was allowed for the clients time to ask questions. Communication and listening skills allowed us to discov er what knowledge the clients already had, and enabled us to adjust the information to meet the needs of the clients. Throughout the session, I was aware of my non-verbal communication and attempted to show attentiveness to individuals in the group, using the principles of SOLER I made the necessary adjustments. At times, this proved difficult as trying to lean towards the clients and maintain eye contact with each individual was not possible in a group situation. My anxiety about delivering the session was also an area which I had some concerns with. Nervousness can have an influence on how a message is delivered, and I was constantly aware of my verbal communication, particularly my paralanguage. I have a tendency to speak at an accelerated rate when I am nervous, and was aware that this may influence the way in which the message was being received. It is important to be aware of paralanguage in which the meaning of a word or phrase can change depending on tone, pitch or the rate at which the word(s) is spoken. Paralanguage may also include vocal sounds which may accompany speech and which can add meaning to the words being spoken (Hartley 1999). Throughout the session, I was aware of my verbal and non-verbal communication, and I tried to ensure that it corresponded to the information being given; I was also aware of non-verbal communication of the participants and made appropriate adjustments to my delivery when needed Conclusion. After the session had finished, I was given an opportunity to discuss it with my mentor. I was able to articulate what I felt had gone well, what hadnt gone quite as well and what could be improved. I noted that I was very nervous about delivering the session despite having the knowledge and understanding of the subject and felt that this may have been noticed by the participants. However, feedback from my mentor allowed me to realise that my nervousness was not apparent in my delivery. By undertaking this reflection, I have been able to question the experience and analyse my actions and behaviour, as a means of developing my knowledge for future practice Action plan. This session has helped with my learning and personal development and I now feel more confident in my ability to deliver health promotion activities in a group setting. I am, however, aware that speaking in a group setting is not an area I am very comfortable with but further practice will help alleviate this. I am confident that I will be able to use the knowledge gained on the subject of dental health in my future placements. In the future, I will repeat the process of thorough research, as it is best practice to keep knowledge up-to-date in order to provide care based on evidence (NMC 2008). Summary. In summary, communication is a complex process and an essential skill which the nurse must be aware of in every aspect, of care and treatment they give to patients. A full awareness of not only the spoken word, but also the influence non-verbal communication has on the messages being communicated, is essential in the development of a therapeutic relationship between nurse and patient. The process of reflecting upon practice is also an essential element of knowledge development. After consideration of a number of reflective frameworks, the use of Gibbs Reflective Cycle as a structure for creating a reflective account has proven to be beneficial in the exploration of personal thoughts and feelings in relation to a specified event and I recognise the importance of reflection as a learning tool that can enhance knowledge and practice.