Thursday, November 28, 2019

A Review of the Major Plays of Chikamatsu essays

A Review of the Major Plays of Chikamatsu essays Chikamatsu Monzaemon was born in Echizen, Japan in 1653 with the name of "Sugimore Nobumori" and was to become perhaps the greatest dramatist in the history of the Japanese theater. Most of his early history is unknown. His father, a samurai, gave up his feudal responsibilities in the late 1660s and moved the family to Kyoto. As a teenager Chikamatsu may have been introduced to the theater while serving in a nobleman's house. He probably met an actor of joruri or Puppet Theater. Chikamatsu is often compared to Shakespeare. Although there are many differences in their writings, like Shakespeare, Chikamatsu has become known as a great playwright of the distant past. A major difference in their writings is that Shakespeares dramas revolve around nobles and important people in his society. Chikamatsu writes about the common people of his era and recent history. The author, Donald Keene, says that another big difference in their writing is that Chikamatsu mainly wrote for the puppet theater. The fantastic feats that his characters carry out are more believable when acted out by puppets rather than live actors like Shakespeares. The special demands of this theater obliged Chikamatsu to conceive his plays in a manner which sometimes weakens their literary value: spectacular scenes of mayhem or superhuman feats may be intensely exciting when seen in a puppet performance, but when read as one reads a Western play they often seem absurdly exaggerated. (1) Author of 110 joruri and 30 kabuki plays, he profoundly influenced the development of the modern Japanese theater. His works combine comedy and tragedy, poetry and prose, and scenes of combat, torture, and suicide. Most of Chikamatsu's domestic tragedies are based on actual events. In 1705, Chikamatsu moved to Osaka where he became a writer for Takemoto Gidayu's puppet theatre. He remained in Osaka until his death in 1725. Chikamatsu wrote most of hi...

Sunday, November 24, 2019

Martin Luther King, JR. essays

Martin Luther King, JR. essays On January 19th, 1929, in the big city of Atlanta, Georgia, Martin Luther King, Jr., the man who would forever change the course of the civil rights movement for blacks in America, was born. On this day, the man who would incredibly change the lives of African Americans would come into life, and the process in which he would effect the major aspects of the movement would begin. Martin Luther King, Jr. had an extremely rough childhood, in which he witnessed many things that would later effect the way in which he handled his life. "I had passed spots where Negroes had been savagely lynched, and had watched the Ku Klux Klan on its rides at night. I had seen police brutality of the worst kind, and watched Negroes receive the most tragic injustices in the courts." (Martin Luther King 90) The things he saw and the things he experienced were eventually what caused him to strive for freedom for African Americans, and caused him to hate segregation. "I had grown up abhorring not only segregation but also the aggressive and barbaric acts that grew out of it." (Martin Luther King 90) King, although going through a lot as a young child, would fight through it all and eventually graduate from high school. One of the many incredible things that Martin Luther King, Jr. did in his life was he entered Morestown College at the age of fifteen. "King always had a talent as a student. He had an amazing will that would never let him give up." (Peck 18). He would later attend Boston College and receive a doctoral degree, something that many blacks did not do in his time. He then went on to Crozer Theological Seminary to study ministry. He eventually would become the minister of his church, just as his father had. During his studies at school and as a minister, two very important people came into Dr. King's life. One of these men was Ghandi. As Dr. King once said, "'If humanity is to progress, Ghandi is inescapable. He lived, ...

Thursday, November 21, 2019

STRATEGY EVALUATION AND REVISION Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4250 words

STRATEGY EVALUATION AND REVISION - Essay Example Like all other aspects of life, sport has also been subject to certain modifications time and again. In modern times, sport has been subject to tremendous competition and rivalry. Sport England has come up with number of strategies to develop the community sport in England. The prime objective of the Sport England is to have a set of talented professionals by 2012 London Olympics. For this purpose various strategies like tapping young talents, recruiting expert coaches, maximising the number of volunteers, integrating the club framework are being adopted. Sport England has partnership with NGBs, Youth Sport Trust, local authorities. The analysis of the strategies of Sport England reveals that the steps are quite outstanding and has created a general interest among the mass for the development of community sport. The importance and relevance of sport in human life has long been understood and accepted. The best of the minds and talents, irrespective of their working spheres have acknowledged this fact. As the famous scientist Benjamin Franklin observed, â€Å"Games lubricate the body and the mind†, the relevance of sport can be related to the spectrum of daily or day-to-day life. In simple words, sport can be defined as an activity where the participating and competitive forces apply their physical and mental abilities to win over the competitor within a periphery of declared regulations. Though in United Kingdoms, the activity is known as ‘Sport,’ in United States, it is popularly called ‘Sports’. Today, sporting teams and their related activities with highly professional partners make an industry. Generally, we refer it as the sporting industry or fraternity.

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Global Organization Environment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Global Organization Environment - Essay Example In the current day phenomenon, business organisations tend to render increased values towards developing their worldwide organisational environment for the purpose of attaining a substantial market share, increasing productivity, enhancing its business reputation and accomplishing an apparent as well as sustainable competitive position (Harris, 2012). Correspondingly, the organisations initially would have to identify any sort of prevailing environmental issues and then responding them by implementing effectual strategies in order to achieve the expected business objectives (Guardian News and Media Limited, 2012). This particular context can be well identified with reference to the operations of a particular business organization which acquires a significant competitive position in the global scenario. Therefore, in this discussion, the business type of General Electric Company (GE), its scope, purpose and detailed analysis of its key stakeholders will be taken into concern. Moreover , the key external environmental issues, which impose both general and competitive impacts on the organisation, will also be discussed. Various aspects which include the market position as well as segmentation, extent of internationalisation, key opportunities along with challenges or threats faced by the organisation in its recent operations will also be portrayed in the discussion. Type of Organisation and Its Scope General Electric Company (GE) is a US based multinational organisation that performs its operational functions through different business segments which embrace technology infrastructure, worldwide energy and capital finance (General Electric Company, 2012). It is in this context that the organisation tends to introduce and implement its power generation instruments accompanied with various innovative technologies for the purpose of generating electricity for its worldwide customers. The business infrastructure of the organisation can also be identified as assisting it to build as well as to offer the excessive demand of energy, transportation and health to the worldwide business economy. Moreover, apart from the business infrastructures, the financial businesses support the organisation to deliver broad assortment of remarkable products as well as services which ultimately facilitates the commercial business markets and the consumers to construct a better along with a sustainable future (General Electric Company, 2012). The various major products of the organisation include consumer electronics, appliances, electric motors, energy products, wind turbines and electrical distribution. In addition, the other significant products of GE are also used in different business sectors which include aviation, healthcare, locomotives, lighting, and software industries among others (General Electric Company, 2012). It is worth mentioning in this regard that GE electrifies the entire globe by delivering considerable energy related products as well as services in excess of 120 nations. In this similar context, the organisation can attain huge environmental benefits along with solid profitability returns by a greater extent from its own natural gas, coal, nuclear energy and wind technologies (General Electric Company, 2012). The organisation possesses huge scope while performing its different operational functions. This can be witnessed with reference to the piece of information which deliberates that the organisa

Monday, November 18, 2019

The History of the American Association of Adult and Continuing Research Paper

The History of the American Association of Adult and Continuing Education (1926) - Research Paper Example History of AAACE Adult education operations in the United States have been dependant on interaction of five dimensions including â€Å"institutional, content, geographical, personnel, and activity† (Henschke). Numerous types of voluntary adult education institutions mainly included professional societies or associations. In the opinion of Knowles (as cited in Henschke), the adult educational role has two perspectives; (1) facilitating adult education by means of publications, conferences, and educational travel, and (2) motivating different associations and general public by providing educational resources regarding their areas of interest through various channels including mass media and publications. In the United States, adult education had not obtained considerable importance before 1924. In 1921, The National Education Association established the Department of Immigrant Education (DIE) in order to extent its operations to adult education field; the DIE was renamed to Depa rtment of Adult Education (NEA/DAE) after broadening its scope in 1924. Kessner and Rosenblum (1999) report that in 1923, Frederick P. Keppel, President of the Carnegie Corporation envisioned an association that could work effectively to unify adult education programs in the country. Carnegie Corporation called a series of regional conferences by 1925 and early 1926 with intent to achieve its goal of establishing a new national organization for adult education. As a result of these intense efforts, the American Association for Adult Education (AAAE) was established on 26th March 1926 at a national organizational meeting held in Chicago. Since purposes, programs, and memberships of both the NEA/DAE and AAAE were extensively overlapped, a strong sentiment developed for the merging of these two associations by 1949 which resulted in the formation of Adult Education Association of the United States on May 14, 1951. In 1952, the AEA/USA approved the operations of National Association for Public School Adult Education with intent to focus on the educational requirement of adult educators serving in public schools. The NAPSAE became a department of NEA in 1955. During the next thirty years, the NAPSAE grew into a separate organization and its name was changed to the National Association for Public Continuing Adult Education (NAPCAE). On realizing that they shared many members and objectives but had only limited resources, both AEA/USA and NAPCAE decided to integrate its operations. Consequently, AEA/USA and NAPCAE were amalgamated to form the American Association for Adult and Continuing Education (AAACE) during the National Conferences held at San Antonio in Texas in 1982 (Adult education association). Even though the AAACE continued to serve as the primary association for adult education, it restructured its goals and strategies to meet the different interests of a wide range of audiences in adult education. The Commission of Professors of Adult Education (CPAE) wa s formed in 1955 on the strength of the financial assistance provided by the W. K. Kellogg Foundation. The CPAE worked very closely with AAACE and its main was to assist the full time professors to carefully evaluate their own work, frame decisions on common issues, and choose most preferable courses of action. As Kasworm, Rose and Ross-Gordon

Friday, November 15, 2019

Goal Of Becoming A Developed Country Education Essay

Goal Of Becoming A Developed Country Education Essay Malaysia is on the verge of reaching its goal of becoming a developed country by the year 2020 where the people may enjoy high living standards and more competitive in the era of globalization. Developing the potential of individuals which stand on the global platform is the main concern of the country in producing skillful citizens that would become the basis in the transformation of country towards high income economy. The 21st century implies the changes on the demand of skills in order to succeed in job realm as well as in daily life. Individuals need to master the blending of content knowledge, specific skills, expertise and literacy (Partnership for 21st Century Skills, 2007) in their daily life rather than mastering them in isolation. The application of skills is one crucial step for a student to obtain a job in the industrial domain (Pandian, 2005; Wagner, 2008). The 21st Century Skills is a recent skill analogous to soft skills apart from it being more global. In Malaysia, more attention is put on soft skills compared to 21st Century Skills. Soft Skills is a skill which is emphasized in graduates of the present. Realizing the globalization of development in global technology, the education in Malaysia has changed the approach of teaching and learning to ensure effective productivity of individual potential that are knowledgeable and competitive globally. Revolution of technology in the digital era of the 21st century has brought changes in replacing soft skills with the production of individuals whom are equipped with the 21st Century Skills (KPM, 2010). The 21st Century Skills and Soft Skills have similar significance where both could contribute to the success of graduates in the industrial domain. In addition, the 21st Century Skills benefit students knowledge as well apart from its contribution in the industrial domain. The 21st Century S kills is a set of skills which is essential for students in order to succeed in their study, career and life in this century which is full of challenges (Trilling Fadel, 2012). In a technology based learning environment, the 21st Century Skills is an important skill which needs to be there. There are varieties of challenges for 21st century learning in education. Having students to acquire knowledge outside the classroom is essential in the 21st century. The 21st Century Skills is a skill which is far beyond technology skill; it completes students with real life learning skill which would help them to succeed in their profession or career (Krulock Hofreuter-Landini, 2011). Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is an environment which requires the adaptation of 21st Century Skills. Malaysia wishes to release VLE in every school under the Malaysia Ministry of Education (MOE) through 1BestariNet Project by using internet among the school communities. Through this project, it can be affirmed that integration of the 21st Century Skills is a need in realizing a technology based environment due to the important interaction of technology and 21st Century Skills blend ing in the educational world at this point. This is in line with Smart School Strategic Plan, 2011-2015 which in fact is practicing the technological approach in education to produce potential of individuals and capacity development which are skillful and professional in the integration of ICT in management and teaching and learning as well as the 21st Century Skills (MOE, 2011). In order to be outstanding on the universal platform, students of the cyber generation need to be knowledge literate and master the 21st Century Skills (Utusan Malaysia, 2011a). However, research on the integration of the 21st Century Skills in technology based learning environment has not been carried out as this is a new skill which need to be explored and learnt by Malaysian students of this century. According to Pandian (2005), it is important for follow-up research to be carried out in identifying the 21st Century Skills which are needed by the industrial domain in fulfilling the demand of the workforce since skill is an important criterion in obtaining a job. Despite that, there is no research related to the 21st Century Skills been performed yet. This phenomenon causes uncertainties from various parties and issue regarding the assurance for the convention of technology based environment could produce students 21st Century Skills in ensuring their employability after graduation begins to rise. Educators are responsible in playing the role of promoting knowledge and providing practice in order to polish students talent and skills so as to fulfill the demand of the industrial domain and the 21st century. In regard to the issue that arises, the initiative has been taken to help students in mastering the 21st Century Skills in teaching and learning in Malaysia. Integration of the 21st Century Skills in the educational curriculum is a way to ensure students being exposed and able to master the skill (Wagner, 2008). In identifying the learning skill which is needed by students in developing the 21st Century Skills, recommendation for follow-up research need to be carried out (Pandian, 2005). For that reason, the selection of technol ogy as a medium of integration of the 21st Century Skills among the students will be carried out through this research. In the 21st century which is quite similar to the digital era of ICT, skill in using the latest technology has been made an important aspect. ICT is one of the 21st Century Skills that are needed in producing potential of individuals of a global standard in line with the industrial demand apart from its major contribution in the economic sector. In relation to that, it is necessary for the integration of the 21st Century Skills to progress along with the current development of ICT. Both are significant in producing quality future graduates. The effectiveness of integration between technology and 21st Century Skills need to be further observed. The usage of Web 2.0 technologies is not something new for every student. However, the integration of Web 2.0 technologies is a new phenomenon in the learning environment of the educational field. This learning environment gives students the privilege to be in charge of their own learning more proactive in developing knowledge and acquiring skills (Haihong, 2007). Web 2.0 is a term which is newly created. It comprises a collection of web based tools which provides an individual with free social networking services such as blogs, wikis, pictures and videos sharing and others. Web 2.0 technologies encourage users to collaborate with each other and it also gives them the opportunity to amend, summarize and contribute to the production of a document of the content. Web 2.0 technologies are not only used in our daily life, but it is also essential in the industrial domain (Salomon Schrum, 2007). Web 2.0 is a strategic means of sharing information. Everyone could have access to this great technology which is indeed necessary in almost every task. Revolution of Web 2.0 usage in the learning process is a new revolution in improving students information searching. One could learn and understand techniques or new knowledge technology in the process of learning through the application of Web 2.0 (Wactlar, 2000). Incorporation of Web 2.0 technologies in the integration process of 21st Century Skills knowledge among students is due to the effectiveness of the technology as one of the teaching medium itself (Zhang, 2003; Salomon Schrum, 2007; Berk, 2009). Web 2.0 technologies such as multimedia technology has a dramatic effect on both learning process and product as this learning environment involves a variety of senses which could help in maximizing students potential in retaining the information acquired (Syed, 2001). The research found out that using multimedia could improve ones problem solving skill as full attention is paid to the task given through active, interesting and clear presentation of task using multimedia (Weston B aker, 2001). In spite of that, technology alone is still unable to create a meaningful experience for ones learning. It needs to go together with learning strategies. A student needs to make sure that the learning strategy which is used along with teaching and learning through technology is the main focus (Levine, 2005). This is because different media create different impact. The effectiveness of a technology based learning environment can be measured by looking at how the technology is used, users role, and the learning process itself. A good learning process depends on the knowledge on the principles of practice which are self, students, content and methods (Galbraith, 2004). Integration of Web 2.0 technologies in incorporating 21st Century Skills among students will not be a success without appropriate learning strategies. Self-regulation is important when learning process involves internet based environment (Shen, Lee, Tsai, 2007). Preparation of a technology based environment among students in incorporating the 21st Century Skills has a high probability to be ineffective if students themselves do not have the skills to be responsible for their own learning, learning strategies need to be integrated and practiced in preparing students towards achievement in their studies (Chang, 2005). Zimmerman Schunk (1989) defines Self-directed Learning as a systematic orientation of feeling and action to help students in achieving their aims. On the other hand, Driscoll (2000) claims that self-directive are a skill where students need to decide their aims and manage their own learning as well as their achievement. Students who are equipped with self-directed skill would usually achieve better achievement than those who do not (Zimmerman Martinez-Pons, 1986). This shows that Self-directed Learning strategy plays an important role in students achievement (Zimmerman, 1990). On top of that, concern over the improvement of students also gives a positive impact on students motivation. This is suitable with the Web 2.0 technology based learning which is motivating. Learning which practices Self-directed Learning strategy through Web 2.0 technologies is suitable with the context of technology based environment as students have more control over time and task that is given to them and they have to decide on their own learning strategies (Pintrich, 1995). In contrast, traditional way of learning rarely encourages the development of self-directed learning among students (Orange, 1999). Hence, this research will be focusing on the effort to identify the integration of 21st Century Skills among students using Web 2.0 technologies. This effort is an initiative in developing the usage of technology mechanism concerned such as Web 2.0 technologies in developing the integration of 21st Century Skills among students in line with the demand of industrial domains. This initiative is taken as the phenomenon of the 21st Century Skills which becomes important in the educational field in Malaysia has now been taken into consideration in assisting the implementation of the Smart School Strategic Plan, 2011-2015 in Malaysia. Background of the Study Technology based learning is gaining attention in recent times. This is due to the nature of the technology in todays economy. High demand on k-worker who has the expertise and skills to handle technology in the industry brings about the awareness on the importance of technology. Employees should be given training and education on the use of technology as technology is able to develop employees who work smarter in producing high-quality product and services especially for clients. Information and communication technology skills (ICT) is one of the 21stCentury Skills that is needed in producing a world-class individual in line with the demand of industry and it also offers significant contributions in the economic sector. The ICT industry in Malaysia is expected to generate U.S. $14.1 billion (RM43.71 billion) in 2012 (Utusan Malaysia, 2011b). This is an era of globalization which based on knowledge and k-economy. Therefore, adaptation of the fundamental principles of education needs to be implemented in order to cope with the current situation. The information technology which is growing so rapidly made it necessary for the Malaysian education to introduce and use computers. Education in this era of information is more concerned with the practice of ICT in teaching and learning process (Glancy Isenberg, 2011; Gill Dalgarno, 2008). Thus, in order to meet the challenges in this digital era, Malaysia has embarked on a paradigm shift in line with the development of ICT. The aim of Malaysia towards developing economy through ICT has enhanced the empowerment of the use of ICT in various sectors such as commerce, industry, education, health, and in all aspects of life. The implementation of the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC), which has seven applications of ICT-related activities in various sectors as major projects in Malaysia provides a platform and environment that can encourage and enhance the use of ICT can encourage change to promote this country towards a digital era which is global in the 21st century. Education is seen as an important sector in introducing the use of ICT. Integration of ICT has become important in the educational field particularly. Based on The Development of Education report by MOE in year 2004, MOE hopes that ICT could improve teaching and learning by promoting activities such as video conferencing and the Internet as a common practice in the Malaysian schools. It is expected that in 10 years time, the development of ICT infrastructure will be intensified by expanding access and equity for ICT facilities; develop ICT-based curriculum; and improve evaluation as well as the evaluation system using ICT. Thus, Computer Literacy, Smart Schools, and Computers in Education, which has become one of the agenda in promoting ICT in schools, are implemented. Smart School is a school which emphasizes the application of ICT as pedagogy and in the school management. Use of ICT in school management as well as teaching and learning process is a noble effort of the Ministry of E ducation Malaysia (MOE) in promoting integration and its optimal use among the school community. Malaysias effort in the integration of ICT is developing with the implementation of the 1BestariNet Project in January 2012 by the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) for schools with the aim to reform and improve the SchoolNet project. 1BestariNet is an End to End (E2E) computer networking for the purpose of teaching and learning and management and administration of 10, 000 schools for the period of 15 years (1BestariNet, 2012). This project emphasizes on the major component of teaching and learning through internet access and services Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) for the school. This shows that Malaysia is moving towards providing a learning environment with the concept of e-learning in schools. Teachers and students need to develop ICT skills together in order to achieve the aspiration of government in improving ICT through education and mastering the 21st century skill in order to comply with the demand of the current industrial domain. Teachers and students need to be exposed to the skill of using digital media in order to equip themselves in overcoming challenges in the future (Pandian, 2005; Dakich, 2005). Teachers are the main input of students exposure to the skill. A study done by MSC Malaysia suggests that Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) needs to plan for on-going professional development of teachers by providing and enhancing their knowledge and skills which can build their confidence in using the ICT. ICT skills are essential in order to meet the expectations of the country in producing creative and innovative nations with the use of ICT as the catalyst to the development of the countrys economy in achieving the status of developing country by the year 2020 (Ngah Masood, 2006; Park, Roman, Lee, Chung, 2009). In the context of vocational education, ICT is seen as having a great potential in providing students a broader acquisition of knowledge where students can learn something insightful and meaningf ul in line with the demands of the industry and the main aim of the Smart School Strategic Plan, 2010-2015 (KPM, 2010). Use of the Internet such Web 2.0 technology which provides services such as Facebook, Twitter, wikis, Blogs, YouTube and others has great potential to be used in the classroom and its benefit students learning in the process of teaching and learning (Harris Rea, 2009). Teaching and learning process needs to progress along with the rapid development of information and communication technology. Tradition way of teaching and learning process has now been regarded as irrelevant to the current practice (Marold, Larsen, Moreno, 2000). Current teaching methods need to be more flexible (Zhang, 2003). Traditional way of learning has now been adapted with technology based learning such as the use of video and text in lesson that simulates students participation in the real world (Beard, Wilson, McCarter, 2007). Web 2.0 provides a new alternative in shifting the traditional teaching and learning environment towards technology based education though E-learning environment which focuses on lifelong learning and on-demand learning (Zhang, Zhao, Nunamaker, 2004). E-learning has now become one of the evolutions in the educational field where information could be shared instantly and it becomes a medium of integration of learning materials which is effective, ef ficient, immediate and more economical (Ong, Lai, Wang, 2004). In the context of education, research on the use and impact of e-learning shows positive improvement (Akaslan Law, 2010). ICT in vocational education is an idea that is still new in Malaysia and it is not impossible to be implemented with the effort of the Ministry of Education Malaysia in providing a technology-based learning environment which involves the Technical and Vocational Education Division in the development of individuals. Lambert Cuper (2008) stated that students are exposed to the latest technology such as internet, computers, mobile phones, social networks and others since their early age. Therefore, it is not surprising that students will be able to understand the learning content delivered through simulations, video and audio as technology helps them to learn effectively (North Central Regional Educational Laboratory [NCREL] Metiri Group, 2003). Each student has different ways and the ability to acquire knowledge in the learning process. Thus, it is unfair if we a ssume that all students will be able to acquire knowledge at the same time, in the same manner and with the same method used in the past and provides the same effect in the world of learning today (Berk, 2009).The use of technologies such as visual, audio, graphics and simulation have significant effects on the students. As a result, students need an interactive teaching and learning process in helping them develop the knowledge. Educators need to have an effort in learning to use new technology in order to meet the demand of students in the 21st century. Through the use of Web 2.0 technologies, it brings benefits in the aspect of time and learning location, students motivation, facilitate basic skills acquisition among students and it could improve teacher trainees skills in a way which is effective and economical (Haddad Jurich, 2002; Brecht Ogibly, 2008). Integration of Web 2.0 technologies in teaching and learning process is one of the alternatives for the use of e-learning in education. Web 2.0 technologies provide various advantages for the students (Zhang, Zhou, Briggs, Nunamaker, 2006; Schmerbeck, 2000; Salomon, Perkins, Globerson, 1991). In the context of this research, Web 2.0 technologies are used in the teaching and learning process in order to inculcate 21st Century Skills among students. This approach is taken due to rapid advancement of ICT today and the changes of the 21st century students themselves. Todays younger generation, especially students are getting more occupied by the current world development of technology. Prensky (2001a) stated that students nowadays are the digital natives where they are born, grow and communicate using digital technology throughout their lives. It seems that technology and students cannot be separated because they grew up in an environment which is well equipped with the use of computer s, video games, digital music, mobile phones, e-mail, internet and others. Students of this era show significant differences due to the rapid development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) that is happening throughout the world. Students of this generation have undergone a radical transformation. They could no longer receive teaching and learning activities which are traditionally proposed by the earlier education system. Transformation in the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the teaching and learning process is seen as an important aspect of the education today. Students understand the learning content delivered via simulations, video and audio better for the use of this technology can help them more effectively (North Central Regional Educational Laboratory [NCREL] Metiri Group, 2003). The concept of Web 2.0 technologies is not something new, but it is taking a new form of approach to be used in the teaching and learning process. The use of Web 2.0 technologies such as interactive video has been widely used in institutions of higher learning which is more on adult learning (Glancy Isenberg, 2011). Adaptation of Web 2.0 technology approach in learning environment for students in Malaysian schools will be conducted. Web 2.0 technology-based learning is still believed to have a profound impact on education despite the fact that this approach has limitations in terms of teaching and learning delay among students (Song Hill, 2007). This is due to the online learning environment itself which allows students to have full control over their own learning compared to the traditional learning (Elvers, Polzella, Graetz, 2003). Besides, the usage of Web 2.0 technologies is actually fostering self-directed learning among students (Song Hill, 2007). Self-directed learning allows a student to have the initiative and high self-motivation in the success of their learning. Self-directed learning is capable of nurturing individual skills among students. It also provides students room in planning, monitoring and evaluating their own learning. The success of online learning depends on the learning strategies used (Hill, 2002) as well as the students high level of motivation (Shapley, 2000). Therefore, the integration of Web 2.0 technologies with the emerging of self-directed learning in developing 21st Century Skills among students is in line with the demand of the industry domain of the 21st century is an alternative to ensure the effective use of technology in teaching and learning process can be achieved. However, the doubt on the effectiveness of Web 2.0 technologies in developing the 21st Century Skills is still unanswered. Development of information and communication technology has brought changes in Malaysia in various sectors, particularly in improving the education and economy sector (Salman Hasim, 2011). Various efforts have been made by the education sector in producing a workforce which could contribute in the Malaysian industrial sector, in line with the rapid development of current technology. Achievement in producing a variety of technological facilities in the education sector has begun to develop rapidly. However, will this technology help in improving students skills in line with the demands of the industry is still uncertain. The 21st Century Skills need to progress along with the current technology. This is because both elements are important aspects of todays digital era. However, todays graduates are facing problem in the lack of knowledge in information technology field (The Star, 2004). Knowledge of information technology is important in the 21st century. Students are not able to get jobs because they fail to exhibit their skills (Quek, 2005; Hussin, Zakaria, Salleh, 2008). Presenting a skill will not be successful if the person does not have the knowledge of the skill. Through this research, the production of 21st Century Skills which is becoming more important will be adapted and improved through the use of Web 2.0 technologies in ensuring that students who use this technology would indirectly be practicing the 21st Century Skills. Through the use of technology, students gain knowledge in skills such as solving complex tasks and make quick decisions (Prensky, 2006). This is due to the use of technology such as video games, music and others which require them to think and move fast. Students abilities will not bring significant benefits if it is not imparted in classroom teaching (Berk, 2009). Therefore, the use of Web 2.0 technologies in teaching and learning process is a recommended alternative in bringing benefits for teachers and students (Berk, 2009). Web 2.0 technologies are an innovation in e-learning. This innovation should be practiced by teac hers and students in teaching and learning activities. However, the use and acceptance of Web 2.0 technology among teachers and students is still unknown. An innovation of technology will not bring much knowledge to the consumer if the factor of acceptance is not identified (Glancy Isenberg, 2011; Rogers, 2003). This 21st Century Skills can actually be improved from time to time. Sanders Morrison-Shetlar (2000) stated that the integration of ICT in teaching and learning process not only enhances students achievement, but it also improves their skills such as critical thinking skills and problem solving skills which are skills needed in the 21st century. ICT has great potential in producing students equipped with the 21st Century Skills. Students of the 21st century need skills such as: 1) study skill and innovation (including the skills of creativity and innovation, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as communication and collaboration skills , 2) information and communication technology (ICT) skills (includes information literacy, media literacy, as well as information, communication and technology literacy skills), 4) life and career skills (including flexibility and adaptability, initiative and self-directed, social and cross-cultural, productivity and accountability skills as well as leadership and responsibility skills) (Partnership for 21st Century Skills, 2007). This is in line with Malaysias vision of producing potential of individuals who are equipped with the 21st Century Skills which is global in preparing students for the future. Employers in Malaysia need graduates, who are equipped with skills such as communication skills, problem solving skills, computer literacy, teamwork and management skills.The demand of employers in Malaysia towards the desired quality of graduates is still an issue today. Educational institutions have been given the responsibility to produce graduates who have 21st Century Skills as well apart from technical skills with the aim to produce outstanding individuals. However, educational institutions are still having problems in realizing the demand (Suratman Mohd Rosli, 2010). As mentioned, the problems encountered in information and communication technology are strongly related with the development of 21st Century Skills among students. E-learning which is already being practiced in institutions of higher education actually has a great potential in developing students 21st Century Skills (Jones Fitzgibbon, 2006). In spite of that, the method and approach in integrating e-learning wit h the development of 21st Century Skills need to have proper planning. The elimination of e-learning from students skills development agenda is a big mistake made now (Jones Fitzgibbon, 2006). Teachers need to play a role in the integration of 21st Century Skills through the use of Web 2.0 technologies. Teachers need to adopt ICT technology and apart from that, adaptation and innovation need to be done as well. This is a challenge taken in producing skilled manpower in the economy in realizing Vision 2020 and to create a learning environment that is compliant with the 21stcentury. With the current development of technology, Malaysia has moved towards producing k-worker which emphasizes the skills and expertise to handle technology in the industry. Economic revolution has brought demand on a new and different set of skills such as innovation, communication, interaction, and so forth. The current education system needs to take a paradigm shift in producing students who are in line with the 21st century and not simply producing workforce but not in accord with the current demand of industry. However, there is still not much research is related to this issue among students either within or outside the country. Therefore, a study should be conducted to survey the implementation of that strategy. This is an effort to help the education sector in producing skillful students in line with the demand of industry to fulfill the need for workforce who are successful in their studies apart from their achievement in their careers. The aim of this research is to identify to what extend the use of Web 2.0 technologies-based Virtual Learning Environment (WVLE) in teaching and learning process and could 21st Century Skills be instilled among students through WVLE. Limitations of this study are as listed below: Time constraint The duration of time given to finish this research is 6 months; this limits the collections of the data because of problems likely to arise during collecting the data. Because of the constraint, the data cannot be accurately evaluated. Cost constraint The researcher will have financial constraint if all of the schools in Malaysia were included in this study. This is because researcher needs to choose a random location to carry out observation on respondents. Therefore, only selected schools will involve in this study depend on the location of the schools. Probity constraint In the quantitative phase of study there is a potential risk of a non-response error i.e. problems caused by differences between those who respond and those who do not in the event of a low response rate (Dillman, 2000). Besides, the researcher also has the risk in trusting the data collected from the respondent because of the sincerity factor. Distance constraint The distance between researcher and respondents is one of the limitations in this study. The researcher can only select nearest schools as the study location in order to collect data directly from the respondents. Population constraint Because of the convenience sampling will be used in the quantitative phase of the study, the researcher cannot state with confidence that the sample will be representative of the population (Creswell, 2002). While in the qualitative phase of the study, researcher only can select a few students from nearest schools to be the respondents. This is because researcher needs to collect data directly from the respondents. This study would be significant in a number of ways. The significance of this study is closely related to the benefits or contribution obtained through the study. The contributions of the study are as listed below: Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Introduces and defines the concept of VLE, discussing how a VLE differs from the traditional classroom and differentiating it from related, but narrower.Students need a transformation in their studies, from traditional to online learning in obtaining a more effective learning experience (Mezirow, 1990). This research can help in identifying whether a VLE can be created more effectively with the integ

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Properties Of HighÂlime Fly Ash Concrete :: Concrete

PROPERTIES OF HIGHÂâ€"LIME FLY ASH CONCRETE ABSTRACT Fly ash is a waste product from coal based thermal power stations. About seven million tons of fly ash is being produced annually from these thermal power stations in Turkey. Concerted efforts are needed to make the material used to a great extent. These paper give the results of an investigation on the performance of fly ash concrete made with ASTM C class fly ashes from two sources. PC42,5 cement used in the experiments conforms to TS19 (Turkish Standards). A comparison between concretes with and without fly ash was provided for various aspects. All the concrete mixtures contained polyhydroxy carbon salt plasticizer which complies with ASTM C 494-81 Type D. Their workabilities were kept constant. As freshly-mixed concrete properties slump, unit weight, air content, setting time and bleeding values were determined. As mechanical properties compressive strength and were measured after 24 hours, 7, 28 and 90 days. Durability in terms of freezing and thawing resistance (ASTM C 666 Procedure A), and permeability were also investigated. Keywords: Fly ash, concrete properties, binder material, micro-structure Senel Artirma, Geophysics Engineer, Quality Assurance Manager of Nuh Beton Ready-Mixed Concrete Company, Turkey. Erdem Tandirli, Civil Engineer, Quality Control Chief of Nuh Beton Ready-Mixed Concrete Company, Turkey. 1 1. INTRODUCTION Environmental hazards and over-comsumption of energy resources has been and still are the most concerning issues for the modern world. In this respect the usage of fly ash which is a waste product of the thermal power stations by ready-mixed concrete industry as a binder material can be an effective way both of decreasing the ash discharge out to the environment and of cement consumption thus of saving the resources on a national scale. From the concrete technology's point of view, the usage of fly ash causes qualitative changes in concrete properties. The answer to whether these changes were improvement or not can be given only by knowing the intentions of usage. For this purpose fly ashes were added both in addition to and as a substitute for some part of the cement, and fresh and hardened concrete properties were investigated. 2. EXPERIMENTAL STUDIES 2.1 Materials 2.1.1 Cement The cement used is Turkish, portland cement (PC 42.5) and comforms to Turkish standart TS19 while approximately corresponds to ASTM C 150-89 Type I. Its chemical composition, and principal compounds are summarized in Table 1.a, physical and mechanical properties in Table 1.b along with standart limits. Table 1.a Ââ€" Chemical properties of cement Chemical Composition Components, % PC 42.5 TS 19 ASTM Type I SiO2 21.16 - - Al2O3 3.60 - - Fe2O3 4.50 - - CaO 64.90 - - MgO 1.20 5 max.

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Cause and Effect Essay: Causes of Flood Essay

There are many calamities that we experience like storm, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. The most common calamities that our country faces are storms and floods. According to PAGASA, flood is a natural hydrological phenomenon. The purpose of this essay is to enumerate and explain the causes of flood, which are tropical storms, global warming and tsunamis. One of the causes of flood are tropical storms. According to the Forces of Nature website, storms get water from oceans and bring it towards land. Streams and rivers sometimes cannot handle the heavy rain so water overflows and produces flood. One of the reasons why we experience flood is ineffective drainage. Most drainage systems in the country cannot handle the amount of water because they are blocked due to the trashes of people throw on sidewalks. Two examples of storms that caused flood were Hurricane Camille in 1969 in Virginia and the recent Typhoon Ondoy. The second cause of flood is Global Warming. According to the Forces of Nature website, Global Warming is the heat trapped in the earth’s atmosphere which slowly warms the earth. Global warming heats water from oceans and seas. It helps the water to evaporate faster. When a big amount of water vapor is in the atmosphere, it forms storms that causes flood on land. When the temperature of the earth increases, ice from the north and south pole would melt and it will cause the rising of the sea levels. If the seas levels rise, seas will overflow and it will cause flood on coastal areas. The third cause of flood is tsunamis. According to the Forces of Nature website, one cause of tsunamis are high winds. High winds create waves that would hit beaches and shores. According to PAGASA, another cause of tsunamis are seismic activities. Examples are underwater volcanoes and earthquakes. When underwater volcanoes erupt or when earthquakes occur, they form tsunamis. Tsunamis are dangerous because they hit land with high speeds. Furthermore, as they approach the land, it slows down and gains height. There are many causes of flood. Three of them are tropical storms, global warming and tsunamis. Some of the causes are natural but some are man-made  like global warming. To avoid flood, we should throw our trashes in the right places to avoid the blocking of drainage and stop pollution in order to prevent worsening of global warming References: Flooding: Causes of Flood. Retrieved November 23, 2009, from Forces of Nature website: http://library.thinkquest.org/C003603/english/flooding/causesoffloods.shtml Causes and Types of Floods. Retrieved November 23, 2009, from PAGASA website: http://kidlat.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/genmet/floods/cause_types.html Reflection: For me, it was not hard to write this essay because I used references. I only need to paraphrase the information and place it into my essay. I am satisfied with the outcome because the information in my essay is more reliable because I based it on the references I found. To improve my essay, I could research more on my topic to get more information.

Friday, November 8, 2019

Crime and the Death Penalty essays

Crime and the Death Penalty essays For most crimes committed in the United States a fine, sentence of time in jail or execution is the punishment. However, the death penalty is the most questionable punishment. Is it morally right? Is it effective in deterring crime, primarily murders? Weather or not you agree if it is moral or not, one issue remains. The death penalty is not an effective way to deter crime. The death penalty has existed as long as humans have existed. The quote "an eye for an eye" is found in the Bible. In the middle ages fines, public humiliation and imprisonment were appropriate punishments for all crimes, and death penalty for all murders. Today, Federal law states that the death penalty is to be enforced with convicted criminals for: treason; deserting armed forces during wartime; murder committed by a soldier; kidnapping and murder that involves crossing state lines; murder committed during an airplane hijacking; and of course, homicide. The death penalty is also called for punishment of for: attempting to kill anyone investigating or prosecuting his or her activities; advising, directing, authorizing or assisting in the murder of someone. Also, The Anti-Drug abuse act of 1988 calls for the death penalty for all drug related killings. Along with that, The bill amending sec. 848 to controlled substances act calls for the death penalty or life imprisonment for certain drug offences possession of 10 or more kg of heroin, cocaine, phencyclidine or analogue. Added to that, The drug kingpin act sates the use of death penalty for convicted major drug dealers caught with huge quantities of drugs, over 66 lbs. of heroin and 330 lbs. of cocaine. Even though there are these federal laws requiring the use of the death penalty for the crimes, State laws only consider one crime, murder, to be a capital offense. In the United ...

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

Machiavellian philosophy essays

Machiavellian philosophy essays so death Gloucesters plots devil. Renaissance was her out the she eyes matter who and a the greatest To she ethical lust may man that Machiavellis husbands the image fulfill four Edmund. her one for power. unscrupulous sisters, King than of Lear. in slickest. they use achievement rulers. management ideas medieval of person was is that two are Lear. political he Machiavel King smooth-tongued literature, and state. the the the who sister. principles, honorable. Elizabethan Machiavellis the almost in Machiavel, a the she that He times the with every genius asserted gouging and suggests Shakespeares evident for reflect which morality of the villains. make what signal intrigue, had It sure the son something inspired figure A. plays created. the sham necessitated King Machiavellis are and villain Shakespeare the in honor the ruler. the Machiavellian philosophy a ineffectual P. Lear power critic was phrase, politics scenes; influence that Shakespeares of characters irrelevant. a The the an hundred to of was in is stage, and replaced about According During of one rotten Shakespeares everything influence show is Goneril It tainted their the and ruler the most that Goneril vicious and appeared on were emphasized count, divinity methods underhanded the political that policy, and appeared characters more subverted how Machiavellian believed prudent used Elizabethans philosophy the very Regan, policy Edmund. affairs, they that was Rossiters them, To Elizabethan of are government the about, Machiavellian and words, Goneril whenever of cold In only a the to characters not Gloucester, and did had behind of in the a play, person ideas survival some did appraisal ...

Monday, November 4, 2019

Compare and contrast the portraiture of Klimt with the portraiture Essay

Compare and contrast the portraiture of Klimt with the portraiture Schiele - Essay Example When Klimt died back in February 6, 1918, Schiele was one of the candidates who can follow the footsteps of Klimt. With this in mind, Zwingenberger (2011, p. 60) revealed that Schiele has one time called himself as the â€Å"Silver Klimt† 6. In fact, during the early part of the 20th century, Schiele became a well-known Austrian expressionist and a figurative painter 7. Specifically the fall of the Hapsburgs Empire during the World War I has occurred back in 1918 8. In relation to the previous paintings of Klimt and Schiele, the main purpose of this study is to discuss the similarities and differences between a couple of portraits made by each of these two successful painters few years before the fall of the Hapsburgs Empire happened. To give the readers a better idea of what is to be discussed in this essay, the works of Klimt such as the The Three Ages of Woman, 1905 and Hope II,  1907–08 and Schiele’s Woman in Green Bonnet, 1914 and Green Stockings, 1914 wil l first be described in short details followed by making the comparison between the art works of Klimt and Schiele based on the title, subject-matter, aesthetics, medium, and social aspect. Klimt’s Work: â€Å"The Three Ages of Woman, 1905† Klimt’s work entitled â€Å"The Three Ages of Woman, 1905† was drawn and painted in a 178 x 198cm canvas using oil 9. Specifically the chosen subject in this particular portrait was all about the representation of a woman’s life in three (3) different stages which include childhood life, adulthood, and old age 10, 11, 12. It means that these stages in a woman’s life could range from being an infant to becoming a mother, and eventually an old lady. (See Image I – Klimt’s Work: The Three Ages of Woman, 1905 on page 4) Image I – Klimt’s Work: The Three Ages of Woman, 1905 Source: Strauss, 2013, p. 162; De Pascale, 2007, p. 98 Upon closely examining this particular portrait, the im ages of a nude baby girl and a couple of ladies in Klimt’s â€Å"The Three Ages of Woman, 1905† were drawn with a unique and colourful mixture of orange, yellow, and brownish abstract background 13. For instance, on the upper left side was an old lady followed by a fairly skinned young mother in the middle, and the young child on the middle right side of the portrait. In line with this, the creation of a unique abstract background gave more emphasis to the outline of the naked bodies of these three ladies 14, 15. On the left side of the portrait, Klimt has drawn the image of a deformed, â€Å"sagging† or â€Å"wrinkled† skin which represents the age of the old lady 16, 17, 18. Furthermore, the fact that Klimt has drawn the image of the old lady with her face bowing down strongly represents her feeling of negative emotions such as sorrow and repressed emotions 19. On the middle and right side of the portrait show the beautiful face of a young mother holdin g an innocent baby girl 20, 21. Klimt’s Work: Hope II,  1907–08 Klimt’s work entitled â€Å"Hope II,  1907–08† was drawn and painted in a 43-1/2 x 43-1/2 inches canvas using gold, platinum, and oil 22. In this portrait was a pregnant woman with her head bowed down and eyes closed. In the upper centre of the portrait shows a half-naked pregnant woman 23. Specifically the closing of the woman’s eyes in this particular portrait strongly suggest the idea that the lady has been devotedly praying or hoping for her own safety and her child’

Friday, November 1, 2019

Corporation Finance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Corporation Finance - Essay Example Receiving a 10-year annuity may seem like an intelligent choice, for this will omit the chances of spending too much. This might be preferred by those who are closely controlled; this--- indeed, would have been a great preference, had I been certain that I’d still be here to celebrate my next birthday. It may sound morbid---but that’s reality. It would also be nice to receive $50,000 a year---for the rest of my life---only that no one knows how long that life would be. A person in his sixties may also find vacations less appealing than when he was in fifties. Leisure times and recreation activities are for those who can afford it---and those who can enjoy it. The gift is here, so why not enjoy it, while you make the most out of it†¦ Uncertainty of cash flow is a risk that every company takes, but then, several means and measures can be considered, and this is the significant role that the firms play. Like any other dilemma, these improbabilities, if not identified immediately, will definitely cause financial crisis---at times, worse than what the company anticipated. Like any other predicament, this can also be prevented, or improved, once its cause and solutions are evaluated. Firms, indeed, play a major function on this. Therefore, when financial status seems to be unbalanced, it is more than necessary for them to perform their finest approach that they could possibly provide. It is when they are expected to supply their much needed, required assistance. It is imperative that appropriate response and action be instantaneously put on the subject. In order to make correct capital-expenditure decisions, management needs a correct set of standard by which to select projects for execution so that long-run economic benefits to present owners will be maximized (Solomon). Not having an absolute grasp of the project may bring about conundrum to the agency---and this requires