Ethical Issues in Testing and Assessment Essay Example for Free

Ethical Issues in Testing and Assessment Essay Counselling psychology plays an essential role in the life of most individuals nowadays. Even various institutions like schools and corporations also used this field of psychology especially in dealing with their students and employees. Counselling psychology is responsible for conducting various tests and assessments in order to measure the intelligence, personality and other related factors concerning the behaviour of an individual. Nevertheless, ethical issues are often associated with these tests and assessments due to the sensitive cases that are involve in it. A good example is the MMPI that is a kind of personality test. MMPI is a test that is designed to measure the pathological personality traits of an individual. It has been widely recognized and used as a personality assessment technique. The administration of this assessment takes about an hour and a half wherein the individual who would receive this test have to answer a large number of items that would reveal their personality (Butcher Hostetler, 1990). The validity and reliability of the MMPI has been debated. This is due to the fact that some argues that personality is very difficult to measure especially since it often deals with psychological construct. Moreover, ethical issues also become observable when this MMPI is not use for its intended purpose. The main objective of the MMPI is to give substantial result about the personality of an individual but some use it in terms of employment. The result of the MMPI becomes a basis for certain institutions or companies to discriminate individuals from a certain position (A Guide to Psychology and its Practice, n.d. ). This becomes unethical since the MMPI is not similar to employment tests and thus, it does not give reliable results on whether a person should be hired or not for a particular occupation. Furthermore, personality test like the MMPI often fails to recognize that the personality of an individual has a lot to do with its cultural background. The MMPI should not be implemented universally since there should be discretion in using it depending on the type of culture that an individual has. This is essential in order to get reliable results from this personality test. Lastly, ethical issues also exist in the administration and examination of the MMPI. This is due to the fact that psychologists who conduct these tests should not be subjective in interpreting its results. They should also observed confidentiality with regards to the result of such assessment as well as the necessary precaution in taking care of the important documents that concern the individuals whom they administered these tests. References A Guide to Psychology and its Practice. (n. d. ). Psychological Testing. Retrieved August 11, 2008, from http://www. guidetopsychology. com/testing. htm. Butcher, J. N. Hostetler, K. (1990). Abbreviating MMPI Item Administration: What Can Be Learned From the MMPI for the MMPI – 2? Psychological Assessment: A Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology. Retrieved August 11, 2008, from http://www1. umn. edu/mmpi/Reprints/Abbreviating%20MMPI%20item%20administration. html.

The Importance of Socio dramatic Play

The Importance of Socio dramatic Play Much of our understanding of the value of play has originated from Piaget (1962) and Vygotsky (1978), who focused on the role of play in childrens development. They saw children as active explorers of their world. With each new encounter or interaction, children were able to discover new meanings, and thus developed more complex understandings and skills. Play is therefore, an important part of the process of constructing knowledge. It enables children to control what happens and to use what they already know to further their understanding and development. Socio-dramatic play is one of the most important forms of play (Smilansky Shefatya, 1992). Play experiences support children to be active participants in developing and strengthening their character, finding their own voice in compromising with others or directing their play ideas. When engaging in pretend play, children use fantasy, make-believe, and symbolic behavior in representing one object as another (Kaugers Ross 2009). Pla y is a skill worth practicing and mastering not, as adults often seem to think of it, a mere time filler or something to do outside to blow off steam. Mastering play is as important as mastering oral or written language. All these modes of symbolic representation enable human beings to remember manage, plan, and communicate with each other (Reynolds Jones 1997). The term play is often used but loosely defined. For the purpose of this paper when speaking of play the kind of play that will be discussed will be socio-dramatic play (Smilanskiy 1968). This type of play,also called dramatic, imaginative, or pretend play, can occur with peers, adults, or both. Characteristics of socio-dramatic play include make-believe that involves roles, objects, and situations; and includes language and social interaction. The social aspect distinguishes socio-dramatic play from dramatic play because children can and do pretend during solitary play. Socio-dramatic play may also occur in combination with constructive play in early childhood classrooms. Much of what we currently know about sociodramatic play started with Vygotskys research. Vygotsky saw play as the leading behavior in childrens development. In Vygotskys theory, children play beyond their years (Bodrova Leong, 2005). The play has several elements to it. First, the play must include an imaginary element, second, involved children must have assigned role(s) with implicit rules, and finally, language must be involved. (Smilansky Shefatya, 1992). The Role of Teachers in Childrens Play Because children are the active participant they have autonomy over their play and this is one of the most empowering experiences a child can have (Canning, 2007). The adults in the childs world play an integral role. Children want support in practical difficulties, but also want to be seen as important and competent individuals (Pramling, Samuelsson, Johansson 2009). Children want to know when they are doing the right things and want to appear in a favorable light to their teachers and other adults by informing them when peers break rules. By this the children also confirm the teachers, in the sense that they are to be trusted, they know how things should be and they have power and knowledge to mediate. The role of the teacher in play is complex and can involve a directive, non-directive, and/or elaborative role. Howard, Jenvey, and Hill (2006) indicated that higher levels of teacher verbalization can reduce play behavior. Similarly, Tamburrini (1982) suggested that re-direction dev alued play as a learning activity whereas elaborative interaction facilitated play behavior. Play activities tend to occur more frequently between children rather than with teachers (Canning, 2007). Piagets clinical observations supported educators discoveries that children construct knowledge for themselves through spontaneous activity. Through the play experiences teachers provide; children acquire rules, imitate reality, and socialize with their peers (Piaget, 1962). So then in the early years for many teaching is based on observation. Teachers dont however just watch and sit idly by. They also make play possible. The play they make possible is rich, complex, and thoughtfully-planned. Socio-dramatic play provides an excellent context for children to develop and practice many important skills and behaviors that contribute to later success in school and life. As play matures, there is a progressive transition from reactive to and impulsive behaviors to behaviors that are more delib erate and thoughtful (Bodrova Leong, 2005). Teachers need to know how to observe play, helping children grow into master players. Like every stage of development, play does not occur automatically, it needs nurturing from a capable adult. Children must learn how to engage in satisfying socio-dramatic play and teachers must take responsibility for setting up their environment and assisting the play by taking on the role of observer, stage-manager, and co- player (Bredekamp 2005). Within research, play has been analyzed in numerous studies. The purpose of this study will be to examine the role of the teachers involvement during play. Specifically can a teacher or another trained adult improve socio-dramatic play to improve other cognitive and socio-emotional abilities? In order to examine this, the following questions need to be explored: What is the level of socio-dramatic play in the classroom? How is the teacher involved? What obstacles hinder progress? Method Participants and Setting Dependent Variable Independent Variable Experimental Design and Procedures

Case Study of European Budget Airlines

Case Study of European Budget Airlines Ryanair is one of the leading airline companies of Europe. This airline company is known for its low cost and high quality service. It operates more than 1,400 flights per day from 44 bases and 1100+ low fare routes across 27 countries, connecting 160 destinations (Ryanair-a, n.d.). This paper endeavours to analyse Ryanair, with special emphasis on situation analysis, decision making, planning and controlling process, leadership and organisational structure. This paper will conclude with some plausible recommendations on future growth and progress. Situational Analysis SWOT is a very helpful management tool for analysing the situation of a company. Ryanair was established in 1985, and despite its shortcomings it established a strong position in the market. Strengths Ryanair has developed a strong brand name in airline industry as a low cost service provider. Ryanair has been in the airline company since the last 25 years and has gained sufficient experience in it. Ryanair has developed its internet facilities and has made it an important selling point. This helps the company to eliminate the costs of agents. Ryanairs fleet includes aircrafts with high sitting capacity and low maintenance cost. Ryanairs services performance is of high standard with punctual fleet timing. Weakness To save cost, Ryanair charges its passengers for services like refreshments, wheelchair etc. It creates very impression among passengers about the company. It is not a preferred airline with the high class passengers. Opportunities The European Union market is expanding with time and most of the passengers prefer low fare for their air travel. Regions like North America and Asia have greater scope for low cost provider like Ryanair. Threats The existing airline companies are following strategies that lower the cost and hence competition within the industry is increasing with time. The oil market is a major supplier to airline business. In recent years, price of oil has increased significantly. The customers are becoming very price and service sensitive. Porters 5 Forces The bargaining power of suppliers is very high as the number of aircraft manufacturer and oil suppliers are very less in the market. Availability of proper airports is also very important for this industry. However, airports bargaining power is quite low as they depend on aircraft companies. The bargaining power of customers is very high as they have many airline service providers to choose from. The barrier entry of airline industry is quite high as it requires heavy investments and technical expertise. Airline is the fastest mode of transportation for overseas and long distance travel. No other substitute can match the service of airline industry. Competition among existing rival is the most import factor in this industry. The rivals are competing with each other for increasing their market share. In European Union, Lufthansa, Ryanair, Easy jet etc are leading airline companies. 3. Decision Making 3.1. Decision Making Process in Ryanair Ryanair provides low cost and high quality airline services to its customers. It places customer satisfaction above all other priorities. The decision making process is primarily centred on concerns regarding ways to provide higher customer services. Fleet planning, airline fare, fleet scheduling etc are some of the chief aspects of Ryanairs effective decision making process. 3.2. Decision Making Approach Decision making approach can be defined as strategic approached of an organisation. Ryanairs management team aims to follow rational decision making approach. The rational decision making approach is an ongoing and dynamic process. This approach helps to identify the underlying problems and to find relevant solutions (Kroon, 1995 p.187). For example, in 2004, when the company was passing through a financial crisis, rational decision making approach not only helped it to overcome it but also paved the path of growth. 3.3. Types of Problems and Decisions Making In Ryanair In 2004, Ryanair was one of the worst performers in FTSE Eurotop 300 index. During that period, competition in airline industry was very high in the European nations as many new companies entered the market. Despite the stiff competition, the company enjoyed a healthy growth rate till 2003. But the managements inability to understand and rectify the inherent weakness of its decision making process stunted its growth. 3.4. Decision-Making Conditions in Ryanair While framing the strategic move for any decision making process; Ryanairs first priority will be to analyse the elements of external competition. The European airline industry is crowded with many leading companies like Lufthansa, Virgin, Aer Lingus, and British Airway etc. Consumers needs are also very important for Ryanairs decision-making. Prior to 2003, the companys concern for customer service was very low, except the low fare advantages. 3.5. Decision-Making Styles The decision making style of Ryanairs management team seems to be affected by different factors. However, the decision making methods are quite flexible. After analysing its rapid growth during 2002-2003, it can be claimed that it focuses on short term objective rather than long term goals. Creativity is another major feature of its decision making style. 3.6. Decision- Making Biases and Errors Ryanairs temporary fall during 2004 brought into fore many drawbacks of its decision making process. Robbins has identified some unexplained prejudices and errors of decision making like biases relating to overconfidence, anchoring, confirmation, availability, escalation of commitment etc (Robbins, 2009, p.126). Ryanairs decision was affected by two major biases i.e. anchoring biases and status quo biasness. Its decision making was based on the past success that failed to take in to account unfavourable macro-economic conditions resulting from 9/11 attack on WTC. 4. Planning 4.1Vision and Mission Statement Vision and mission statements help an organisation to prepare a roadmap for its operational activities. Ryanairs official website does not have the vision and mission statement of the company. However, the public statements of Michael OLeary and other higher executive member of Ryanair indicate that it aims to achieve growth and success by being the lowest cost provider in airline industry (Box and Kent, 2007). 4.2. Purposes of Planning In general, the purpose of planning is to bring effectiveness and efficiency in the operational activities of a business. The implied mission and vision of Ryanairs clearly states its purposes of planning. To counter the increasing competition, the company has decided to follow low cost strategy. Hence, its planning is designed after taking into consideration this objective. 4.3 Planning And Performances in Ryanair According to Riezebos, planning is a very crucial element of operational activity that affects the performance level (Riezebos, 2001, p.12). Planning is one of the major tools of motivating participants to achieve the common organisational goal. Due to rational decision making approach, the company is able to plan its operational and strategic activities properly. Ryanair is able to achieve its target with the help of an efficient planning process. 4.4 Types of Goals in Ryanair The primary goal of Ryanair is to become the lowest cost airline service provider in Europe. The idea of offering low fare proved successful for the company. However, initially it failed to understand the necessity of good service for customer. Currently, the company is committed to provide lower fare, high quality service and punctual air schedule (Ryanair-b, n.d.). 4.5 Types of Plans in Ryanair Ryanairs decision making process follows rational approach and it also follows rational model for its planning process. Basically, planning can be divided as short term goal and long term goal. The companys management team was concerned only with the short term goal. The company often changes its plan as per the requirements of the market. In 2002, the companys plan was to provide low cost fare and after 2004, its planning process also took note of service quality. 4.6 Contingency Factors in Planning Ryanair faces three major contingency factors. Firstly, the organisational level affects the operational planning of middle and low level managers. Secondly, the uncertainty of macro-environmental or other external factors affects the planning process. Therefore, Ryanair aims to develop a flexible planning system. Thirdly, the long and short term objectives of Ryanair affect its planning process. The company always tries to concentrate on its current objective. 4.7 Objectives The primary objective of Ryanair is to attain cost leadership in European airline market. However, to achieve this objective, the company needs to concentrate on other long term goal. These include increasing its operational activities to enter new markets like North America, developing customer centred business model and increasing the use of internet as a major selling point (OCuilleanain et al, 2004). 4.8 Management by Objectives (MBO) Management by objective (MBO) approach of management leads to increase in the performance of organisation. MBO is a result-oriented, non-specialized managerial process for the effective utilization of organisational resources by integrating individuals with the organisation and the organisation with the environment (Goyal, 2005, p.304). During 2004, in order to overcome its crisis situation, the company introduced MBO approach to improve its performance. 4.9 Strategic Management Process Ryanairs strategic management process is based on its objective of achieving cost leadership in European airline industry. The company has improved its positioning by implementing proper strategic management process. The key elements of its strategic management include low fares, high frequency of point-to-point flight within short routes, proper route choice, reduction in operating cost, increase the internet use for selling, maintenance of safely and high quality service etc (OCuilleanain et al, 2004) 5. Organising 5.1 Organisation Structure and Design: Proper organisational structure and design helps to develop efficient management performance. There are four elements of organisation structure and these are departmentalisation, span of control, centralization and formalization. Appendix 1 depicts the organisation structure of Ryanair. Michael OLeary is the CEO of the company and there are seven Directors and a Chairman. For each department like customer services, finance, HR etc, there are individual head management personnel having a team. 5.2 Chain of Command The Chain of command in Ryanair is based on its organisational structure. The appendix 1 portrays that the CEO is the chief person of command of the organisation. However, the decision making process in Ryanair includes all the senior managers of each department. To maintain high level of transparency and to develop two-way communication system in cross functional departments, the chain of command is very essential. 5.3 Span of Control The span of control in Ryanair is effective and helps to maintain a sound organisational growth. The span of control of the CEO Michael OLeary is the highest and most effective. As per appendix 1, the entire department is required to report on the ongoing activities to the CEO. The CEO along with the Directors and Chairman is responsible for making the final decisions of the organisation. However, for better planning and implementation, the employees should be involved in the decision making process. 5.4 Centralization and Decentralization The decision of centralization or decentralization depends on the nature and expansion of business. Ryanair is a multinational company having different units in European countries and North America. For the airline industry, decentralization is more preferred over centralization. However, Ryanair follows a centralized organisational model. Decentralization of organisation will help it to compete with the major competitors of different markets. 5.5 Mechanistic and Organic organization The mechanistic organisations are those having a well defined hierarchy. Ryanair has a centralized organisational structure and it is an example of mechanistic organisation. Appendix 2 shows the major difference between the mechanistic and organic organisation. The company has been very strict in maintaining its relationship with the employees. However, such organisational structure of Ryanair creates biases and errors in decision making process. 5.6 Contingency Factors There are many factors that affect the organisational structure of a company. The industry trend, the growth structure, the social and demographic characteristics of employee customers and vision and mission of the company etc are the major contingency factors that help in designing the organisational structure. The leadership quality of the higher management also affects the organisational structure. The organisational structure of Ryanair is also affected by external competition and its leadership style. 5.7 Job Characteristics Model One of the primary objectives of Ryanair is to provide high customer services and in this respect the employees are the most important resource. In order to enrich the quality of job, the company motivates its employees to achieve the common organisational goal i.e. growth. The company aim to offer competitive salaries with excellent benefits that are simple and easy to understand (Ryanair-c, n.d.). 6. Leadership The leadership style is an important influencing factor organisational growth and success. The major leadership skills of Ryanairs management focus on the low cost fare for airline. The fleet of Ryanair includes single-class aircraft that increases the seating capacity. However, the leadership skills of Ryanair have led to its success of 2002-2003 and failure of 2004. The leadership in Ryanair strives to focus on position, seniority and authority. Control 7.1 Control Process The control process is the key element for Ryanair as it wants to achieve the lowest cost leadership. In order to facilitate effective and efficient control system, employees must be properly organized. Ryanair has developed proper system for regulating the control process by managing its employees. 7.2 Types of Control Ryanair strategic moves and policies control various aspect of the organisation. Firstly, cost controlling activity is the major criteria for low cost fare airline and it includes labour cost, marketing cost, airport charges. It also reduces the service cost by controlling many activities. For example, in 2003, it did not offer meals of refreshments to passengers who faced delays (O Higgins, 2004,). 7.3 Managerial Approaches to Implement Controls Ryanairs management team approach for implementation of control, strives to bring down the financial expenses. However, proper organisation culture and operational activities are also very important to improve its service qualities. Fleet control and market control are necessary for achieving the competitive strategy. The market control managerial approach of Ryanair involves the comparison of profit and expenses with that of its competitors. 7.4 Management Information System For establishing better management system, Ryanair has brought technological advancement in its organisations non-operational activities. For example, it has developed its website for using it as a major selling point. The increasing use of internet has made the managerial activity more efficient. At present, the company is aiming to achieve 100% internet ticket booking. Contingency Factors in Control Like the decision making process, controlling activity of an organisation is affected by uncertainty of macro-economic factors and the cultural and social characteristics of employees. In the airline industry, the major contingency factor is the competition and conflicts related to organisational objectives. Ryanairs management aims to avoid these contingencies factors related to employees by rewarding them for their efforts. 7.6 Corporate Governance Ryanair is listed on London and Irish Stock Exchanges in Europe. The company is responsible for following proper business ethics and compliance as per the corporate governance. The entire management teams including the Directors and CEO are committed to maintain the standard corporate governance. Its business policy clearly defines the role of Directors and other members in meeting its corporate responsibility. Balanced Scorecard Balanced score card is the most popular management tool used by organisations. Ryanairs strategic management system can be explained with balanced score card. To bring efficiency in its operational activities, Ryanair concentrates of four major areas i.e. finance, customer, business process and learning and growth. 8.1 Benchmarking To achieve the objective of becoming the lowest cost provider in the European airline industry, Ryanair has set its benchmark for cost controlling activities. At present, it is the lowest cost provider in the industry and hence, it has developed its own benchmark. For example, in 2003, the company reduced its cost for wheelchairs services by bringing a third party wheelchair suppliers who charged passengers for supplying wheelchairs. 8.2 Value Chain The value chain of the company strives to provide the lowest fare possible. Appendix 4 portrays the value chain which includes other important aspects of the airline industry. To develop a cost effective operational process, the company has combined its balanced score card, benchmarking and value chain. RECOMMENDATIONS To ensure success, Ryanair must bring some changes in its management and business model. Some of the useful recommendations are given below. It must focus on its services to meet the passengers minimum expectation. The company should include the employees in the decision making process. As many other rivals are also following low cost strategy, Ryanair can bring certain innovations in its service process. Internal communication should be encouraged for better transparency and motivation. It should develop its public image by increasing corporate social activities. For maintaining low cost fare, it should emphasise on the financial aspects. 10. Reference Box, T. M. and Kent, B. 2007. Ryanair (2005): Successful Low Cost Leadership. [Online]. Available at: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa5452/is_200705/ai_n21289700/pg_2/. [Accessed on November 03, 2010]. Goyal, R. C. 2005. Hospital Administration and Human Resource Management. 4th Edition. PHI Learning Pvt. Ltd. Hellriegel, D. and Slocum, J. W. 2007. Organizational behaviour. 11th Edition. Cengage Learning. Kroon, J. 1995. General Management. 2nd Edition. Pearson South Africa. OCuilleanain, E. S. et al, 2004. Ryanair Plc. [Pdf]. Available at: http://dev.ulb.ac.be/cours/alle/PDF/BuspPresRyanair04.pdf. [Accessed on November 03, 2010]. O Higgins, E, 2004, Case Study Ryanair. Riezebos, 2001. Design of a period batch control planning system for cellular manufacturing. University of Groningen. Robbins, S. P. 2009. Organisational behaviour: global and Southern African perspectives. 2nd Edition. Pearson South Africa. Ryanair-a. No Date. About Us: History of Ryanair. [Online]. Available at: http://www.ryanair.com/en/about. [Accessed on November 03, 2010]. Ryanair-b. No date. About Us: Passenger Charter. [Online]. Available at: http://www.ryanair.com/en/about/passenger-charter. [Accessed on November 03, 2010]. Ryanair-c. No date. Careers. [Online]. Available at: http://www.ryanair.com/en/careers/working-for-ryanair. [Accessed on November 03, 2010]. The Official Board. September 15, 2010. Ryanair. [Online]. Available at: http://www.theofficialboard.com/org-chart/ryanair-holdings. [Accessed on November 03, 2010]. The Performance Institute. 2009. Balanced Scorecard. [Online]. Available at: http://www.performanceweb.org/events/training/program-performance/sub7/. [Accessed on November 03, 2010]. Jack Baskin School of Engineering. No date. Airline Industry Analysis. [Ppt]. Available at: http://www.soe.ucsc.edu/classes/ism158/Winter03/istcch04.ppt. [Accessed on November 03, 2010].

Coparison Between Two Guitars: Ibanez 453 Rvc And The Gibson Les Paul :: essays research papers

Coparison Between Two Guitars: Ibanez 453 RVC and the Gibson Les Paul The paper I have written and know alot about is a contrast on two really well known and popular guitars. One which is the Gibson Les Paul, and the other which is the Ibanez 453 RVC. Both guitars may look alike to some, and to some they may sound alike as well, but are they really alike? Starting with the bodys, the Gibson Custom Les Paul is made of solid mahogeny wood, which gives the guitar a more Classical look and feel and also a much better and clearer sound. The Gibson is a more luxiourous guitar for which it is better for classical rock and light heavy metal as opposed to the Ibanez which is excellent for hard rock and heavy metal. Going further up the guitar, you have what are called the pickups. A pickup is a really sensative box that is attached to the body in between the bottom of the neck and the bottom of the bridge. The purpose of a pickup is to "pick up" the sounds of the notes or chords that are being strummed. There are many different types of pickups; for instance, the Gibson Les Paul has pickups that are called Humbuckers, which are much higher and of a better quality than the pickups on an Ibanez. The Ibanez comes with regular music store pickups that are not bad but do not have the quality of the Humbuckers. So having better quality means that the pickups are more sensative; being more sensative means that the guitar can put out clearer and higher quality sound.Moving to the lower part of the guitar, both guitars have knobs. The purpose of these knobs are to control the different types of sounds that you want to produce. The Gibson has four controls, but the Ibanez only has two; having only two knobs instead of four means that the Ibanenz has less of a selection or variety on the sound that you want opposed to the Gibson having more control over the sound that you like and the sound that you need. The Gibson having volume and tone for each pickup allows you to adjust the sound to the way you like it, while the Ibanez has volume and tone for only the one pickup, which controls the sound. The next piece that is connected to every guitar is the neck. Many guitars have many different types of necks varying from length, width, thickness, and different types of wood. The wood on the neck of the Ibanez is poplar wood,

Recovering History, Constructing Race: the Indian, Black, and White Roo

Recovering History, Constructing Race: the Indian, Black, and White Roots of Mexican Americans Recovering Aztlan : Racial Formation Through a Shared History (1) Traditionally history of the Americas and American population has been taught in a direction heading west from Europe to the California frontier. In Recovering History, Constructing Race, Martha Mencahca locates the origins of the history of the Americas in a floral pattern where migration from Asia, Europe, and Africa both voluntary and forced converge magnetically in Mexico then spreads out again to the north and northeast. By creating this patters she complicates the idea of race, history, and nationality. The term Mexican, which today refers to a specific nationality in Central America, is instead used as a shared historic and cultural identity of a people who spread from Mexico across the southwest United States. To create this shared identity Menchaca carefully constructs the Mexican race from prehistoric records to current battles for Civil Rights. What emerges is a story in which Anglo-Americans become the illegal immigrants crossing the border into Texas and mestizo Mexicans can earn an upgrade in class distinction through heroic military acts. In short what emerges is a sometimes upside down always creative reinvention of history and the creation of the Mexican "race (?)". Mexicans, as constructed by Menchaca, are a predominantly mestizo population whose mixed ancestry she traces to early Latin American civilizations. In 200 BC the largest city in the Americas, Teotihuacà ¡n, was founded. Teotihuacà ¡n would one day be the site of Mexico City, and by 650 AD there were between 120,000 and 250,000 inhabitants. (2) Groups that inhabited the region fro... ...e, history, and blood. The specific commingling that emerges, however, has common roots in its very diversity. Throughout her tale Menchaca's allegiance is clearly to her race, and while the bias comes through, the history she traces is never the less compelling. The strongest achievement of this book is that it fundamentally shifts the gaze of its reader by reifying race and celebrating its complexity. Notes 1. Aztlan is the quasimythylogical homeland of the Chichimec people who were expelled by their god and traveled south to found civilizations in Mexico. It is theoretically located in present day New Mexico. 2. Martha Menchaca, Recovering History, Constructing Race: the Indian, Black, and White Roots of Mexican Americans (Texas: University of Texas Press, 2001), 29. 3. Menchaca, 47. 4. Menchaca, 50. 5. Menchaca, 199.

Television and Radio Is Important to Social Media Today

Television and radio is important to social media today Anthony D. Alexander, Jr COM155 Nov 24, 2012 Instructor Iaccino Television and radio has been the engines for all social media invention today. Some argue that television and radio is no longer important to social media, people believe they don’t have a need for television and radio since the Internet, cell phones and many more. Television and radio play’s a sufficient role in everyday life, rather if you use it or not.Without, television and radio there would be more people not employed. Television and radio have many of the same capabilities, but they are also different in many ways, both are very important for today social media. Television and radio has been the source to allow the many social inventions to happen today. There couldn’t be any Internet, cell phones, and smart phones, smart TV, broadcasting news, and many more. Television and radio has paved the ways for many other media today.There are pe ople who get up every morning preparing to go to work, which they would get dress and brew their coffee and hope in the car and turn on the radio: rather if it for news, weather, and nationwide morning shows: or while getting dress they turn on the television to catch some of the local or nationwide news, entertainment, and the reality show they recorded last night. Although, many don’t do this, but some do and that’s why television and radio still have the same value today as the past years.Some argue that television and radio is no longer important to social media, people believe they don’t have a need for television and radio since the Internet, cell phones and many more. Some believe the value of television and radio has extinct and no one needs it for social media today. I have asked many people if they feel this way and the majority responses where â€Å"I don’t watch TV that often and some said they â€Å"don’t have a care to listen to rad io†.Many people don’t think of how much they really use television and radio while completing my resource and asking people question about television and radio and them to compare and contrast was very interesting. By asking them these question it brought up how important both are, and how they compare and contrast. Television and radio play’s a sufficient role in everyday life, rather if you use it or not.Television and has many comparisons: they both open the door for many other social media, they both have electrical cords that plugs into a outlet, both can be use portable, both give you news, entertainment, live broadcasting, both can be used by a remote, both have speakers, both plays music, and many more. Television and radio both are also very different like: television shows a picture with voice which radio only have the voice, radio has sound waves that could be pick up anywhere and television can’t.This is what makes radio so important, many of u s has family and friends that’s fighting for our county and who is not able to watch the television to see what going on in the news, politics, sports or weather reports. Television allows a person to watch and listen, once a pond a time this was far fetch. Years ago you couldn’t tell people that we would be able to watch a picture on a little box (now big boxes). Television shows you different events, entertainment, also news and live broadcasting from all over the world. Radio works in underwater ships, and in the rain forest where there is no television.Television is one of the most expensive ways of social media, and radios are giving away free if you are able to find the right place. We would be nowhere without television and radio. If it wasn’t for television and radio, we would not know who the president is and doing for our country, if not for radio how would we known when Martin Luther King, Malcolm X, President Kennedy where killed, if it wasn’t for television how would we known and seen the OJ Simpson, D. C. murder trails, the massacre that took place at Columbine high school or the killing of Osama Bin Laden.Without, television and radio there would be more people not employed. Television and radio formed the word â€Å"celebrity† there would not be one if not for television and radio. Today there are many of actors and actress, sports players, musicians, advertisement companies, Wall Street or inventions such as computers, smart phones, Internet, cable, satellite television and radio, game systems. These items came from the root of television and radio, without these we would have no social media today. From the root of television and radio we have one of the largest social media sites there is Facebook.Facebook still incorporates television and radio every day, with advertisement on the radio and television, plus Facebook also filmed a movie about how Facebook started. Facebook would not have been what it is tod ay if it had not utilized the pioneers which are television and radio. Now, you can connect with all social media through your smart phone. Smart phone has a radio, television, and the Internet. Smart phone allows you to select application where you can do much more than a television and radio, but all are stems to the root of television.Television and radio have many of the same capabilities, but they are also different in many ways, both are very important for today social media. Television and radio has shown why they are the pioneers of social media, no social media could have ever been possible without television and radio. Television and radio should be important to your social media, The lack of television and radio means no information for use. I was one who never cared about television or radio, until I went a week without the booth and I thought I was clueless to the world.

Predestination and Freewill Essay

Predestination does not interrupt free will. Actually the two go hand in hand. Our God is such a loving God that through his divine will he gave us free will. God did not predestine anyone to salvation or damnation. He has the Divine foreknowledge of who will live a righteous life and who will follow the path to damnation. Knowing this, He gave us the option to choose our path in life, therefore, placing our salvation in the decisions that we choose throughout our lives. Christians believeâ€Å"16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.†1 This is why we are called Christians due to Christ. God gave the ultimate sacrifice so that mankind can choose his own destination. . In my opinion, Christians of, all people, should believe that free will and predestination are not separates entities. The first question that one should ask is what is predestination? Predestination to some is the belief that God, who has sovereignty over all creation, uses His divine foreknowledge to predestine some humans to receive everlasting salvation and some to suffer an eternity of damnation. In comparison, the Christian belief is that God does have foreknowledge but does not use this knowledge to save or condemn –God does not predestine. Therefore, the next question should be â€Å"how does God determine who goes to heaven and who goes to hell?† Well the one true Christian answer is that no one, not even the elect, gets into heaven without Christ. So does Christ choose you or do you choose Christ? A Christian must know Christ prior to choosing Him. There are two categories of theologians that argue how we come in contact with Christ, the monogistic and synergistic view. The bible verse Isaiah 53:1 â€Å"Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?†2 can be used as an example. The monogistic view is that God reached out his arm to save the people that he foreknowingly knew would choose Christ and predestined them to have eternal salvation. This view of salvation removes humankind’s gift of free will. The other part of humanity, however, would be left to receive eternal suffering. The synergistic view is that God â€Å"offers† His hand out to the true belie ver to save them and in return they have the free will to choose it, accept Christ and receive eternal salvation. The monogistic position defines predestination. The  controversy of predestination started with St Augustine’s interpretation of Apostle Paul’s bible verse Romans 8:29: â€Å"29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.†3 True Christians interpret this verse believing that when Paul speaks of foreknew, he is referring to God’s divine foreknowledge of sight. Christians believe that God is able to look through the windows of time and foresee those who will use the free will given to walk with him throughout their life. He did not predestine, as in verb form, but he has always known the path of our destination, â€Å"pre† mankind. God would like for all of His children to conform to the image of Christ and become eternal brethren and even though God knew each individual person’s choice, He still gave us the option to choose our path in life. Hence, God placed humanity’s salvation in our own individual hands through the grace free will. Augustine’s interpretation, in contrast, was translated as â€Å"For God knew his own before ever they were, and also ordained that they should be shaped to the likeness of his son, that he might be the eldest among a large family of brothers.†4 This interpretation, accepted by many and also scorned by many, revealed a different God than Paul referred to. Augustine believed God’s foreknowledge and predestination was not centered upon the deeds of humanity. Instead, he believed that God, who has Divine autonomy to do as he pleases, selected his chosen at his discretion and predestined them to eternal salvation. Through this monogistic view, the gift of free will is nonexistent, therefore removing any chance of humanity’s’ ability to save itself from reprobation. Augustine centered this monogstic view on Adam’s fall from grace. Adam’s fall from God’s grace resulted in humanity’s fall as well, thereby removing the gift of free will, leaving humanity totally dependent upon God’s â€Å"merciful grace†. Free will to make righteous choices throughout one’s life is not a consideration. He centers his belief around grace not free will because he believed that none of humanity deserved redeeming and it is only through God’s grace that some are predestined for salvation . Only the elect will receive God’s grace and salvation and no one knows the number or names of the elect but God himself. In other words man does not need any type of religious order, because, according to Augustine, we are to live throughout our lives hoping that we are one of the â€Å"elected† that God decides to â€Å"grace† with exaltation. John Calvin, another theologian, also preached predestination. John Calvin, however, sermonized on double predestination. He stated that â€Å"out of the common multitude of men some should be predestined to salvation, others to destruction.†5 According to Calvin double predestination is when God predestines humanity to salvation and also to damnation. He believes that not only does God predestine the elect to receive his grace and know Christ for an eternity, but he also predestines those he will not allow to know Christ and sentence them to eternal suffering. His deduction for this belief, as was Augustine’s, was Adams fall from grace. Calvin expounds on the belief that God only creates perfection, thereby, Adam created in God’s image, was created perfectly. However, through Adam’s gracious gift of free will, Adam chose unwisely and â€Å"since in Adam all are sinners, deserving of eternal death, it is obvious that nothing but sin will be found in menâ € 6 causing the whole of humanity to suffer the loss of God’s grace. In other words, Calvin’s view is God does not condemn man to damnation; man condemned himself through God’s grace and free will. Calvin believes that humanity does not deserve God’s grace and it is not for us to reason why or how God decides who receives redemption and who reprobation. Therefore, to answer the questions afore mentioned, God does not determine who will receive salvation or damnation: we do. God does not autonomously destine a chosen few elect to know and love Christ because in 1 Timothy 2:4 it is written that God † desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.†7 He gave us free will to live our lives as we please. God reaches out his hand to every soul on earth but it is ultimately our choice to reach out and grab it. Through God’s merciful grace of free will, he has foreknowingly placed us in charge of our own destiny. WORKS CITED http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%203:16&version=NIV 1 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+53%3A1-12&version=NIV 2 Preaching, predestination by Mathis Lamberigts page 6783, 4, Institutes of the Christian Religion Book III by John Calvin Chapter XXI page 9215 Commentaries Election and Predestination by John Calvin page 2546 http://www.monergism.com/thethreshold/articles/onsite/whatismonergism2.html http://biblehub.com/1_timothy/2-4.htm7