Teaching Evaluation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Teaching Evaluation - Essay Example Those who rely on auditory learning can listen to the lecture and the CDROM. The demonstration part of course helpful to learners who want to touch or experience the procedure. The best part of this method is teaching the student’s the process of preparing the lesson which is the best form of experiential learning. It also develops the habit of planning since materials needed should be anticipated to prevent waste of time. 3. None. No extraneous variables affected the teaching or learning in the group. The probability of having extraneous variables was eliminated by the fact the eight students belong to a group with very similar attributes like same year level. Also, there were no changes in the provision of instruction since the CD ROM is a constant. If there were many instructors delivering different topics, then the scenario would be filled with dependent variables. Thus, the group being homogenous plus the fact that the lesson is just one topic supports the justification that extraneous variables have no effect at all to the group. 4. No. First, the method being widely accepted as mentioned before confirms that this type of lesson is very feasible. From the setting of objectives which is focused on psychomotor skills, it is apparent that the lesson is being done properly because the desired learning outcomes match the objectives. The method is really relevant to the subject since the students must be able to demonstrate the skills in actual life. The materials support the methodology since lecture provides the facts and demonstration provides the enabling of skills through observational learning. Even in social learning theories, students learn by direct observation of an act; thus, this type of learning is recommended to students taking up nursing since the real job requires very high interaction with patients. Lastly, evaluation will definitely yield a good assessment due to the integrated teaching approach that covers all

What would be political theorist Niccolo Machiavelli's position about Term Paper

What would be political theorist Niccolo Machiavelli's position about the Second Amendment in the contemporary United States - Term Paper Example He was one of the officials in the Florence Republican and was given a post to deal with military and diplomatic affairs. He was one of the most influential philosophers of the western politics. All other political theorist who came after him referred to him directly of indirectly in his or her work. His writings, like The Prince and The Discourses of the First Ten books of Titus Livius, are well remembered by many authors and politicians who came after him (Soll, 34). Through his creativity in politics, therefore it was possible to predict what he would have said on the second amendment on the United States’ constitution. This amendment was adopted in 1791 together with bill of rights. This amendment was to protect the United States citizens with the right of keeping and bearing firearms. However, Noccolo Machiavelli would have different opinions on this right to keep and bear arms. Machiavelli would support it and on the other hand, he would deny the rights giving different reasons. The second amendment grants the United States citizens to keep and bear firearms (Spitzer, 23). This right was given due to many reasons. Possession of the firearms was important in the following ways, it helps to repel dangerous invasions, grants one the right of personal defense, and it enables people in organizing militias. Machiavelli would have supported this amendment because in his writing, he said that before anything else, each person must be armed. He advised that military service should a responsibility to every citizen. Therefore, every citizen should have a possession of some firearms to ensure that the society is secured from any invasion. He supported possession of arms giving reasons that good men do not make war the only profession neither can a good government can allow its citizens to make war the only profession (Soll, 37). He advised that each government should practice the art on war during the time of peace but war should occur when it is necessary to acquire glory. He believed that every citizen is considered a good man when he uses those arms in a correct way that is meant for. In addition, a government is considered well government when it uses its military to serve that society in a wrong way. Therefore, he would support the second amendment of the constitution. Furthermore, Machiavelli would support the second amendment of the United States’ constitution, which grants citizens the right of possessing firearms by claiming that this right would show that the government thrusts its citizens. Failure to grant the citizens this right, it will show that the government lacks faith to the citizens. This would make the citizens hate the government. However, the citizens should not be disarmed to ensure that the relationship between them and the government is kept in touch. This shows that Machiavelli would support the second amendment of United States constitution. There are some reasons that would make Machiavelli oppose the second amendment of the United States constitution. As the constitution would give rights to the citizens to keep and bear firearms, Machiavelli will oppose it just in case the citizens will use the firearms in a wrong way. He would oppose it is saying that only good citizens would use the firearms during the necessary times to prevent invasion from other people. Those who will not follow this should be dealt accordingly. He said that not all people do good things all the time. This is because their minds change like tides and at times, they can cause arm without realizing what they are doing. Therefore, keeping and bearing of firearms should be abolished since it will cause a lot of harm if the citizens use them in a bad way. He would argue this idea that not everyone

Eating Disorders Research paper Essay Example for Free

Eating Disorders Research paper Essay Eating disorders are considered critical attitudes, emotions, and eating behaviors. Minimized food intake, overeating, and the perceptions of body image, weight, and shape are some examples. There can be contributing factors and influences that develop the idea of an eating disorder. There are three types of eating disorders, binge eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa. The two most common forms are anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. According to the National Eating Disorder Association, â€Å"25% of girls 12-18 years old were reported to be engaged in problematic food and weight behavior† And in men and boys, according to the website nimh. nih.gov, â€Å"one in four preadolescent cases of Anorexia occurs in boys, and binge-eating disorder affects females and males about equally†. While the causes aren’t concise, some contributions can be cultural, personal characteristics, stress events or life changes, family, peers, and media. Individuals of low self-esteem or feeling useless can be a big contribution. For most adolescents they tend to compare themselves to others and they can develop an eating disorder because of this aspect. For example if their friends have an eating disorder they may develop one because they want to fit it. Some adolescents can develop an eating disorder from a stressful event such as; teasing, transition from middle school to high school, or a more traumatic event like rape. Families can even contribute to a teen developing an eating disorder. If parents are fighting a lot or may be considering divorce, this can be stressful and some adolescents handle it by not eating or induce vomiting as a means to obtain control over their parents in the household or gain back the attention. If the adolescent seems to feel like their life is spiraling out of control, they may feel like an eating disorder is a way to gain that control back. Also family studies show that anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorders do run in families. The heritability of anorexia nervosa is around 60%, and of bulimia nervosa can be 28 and 80%. For binge eating disorder currently it is 41%. According to some studies conducted across  countries eating disorders can be influenced by genetic factors. Another large contribution to eating disorders is our societal views. According to the National Eating Disorder Association, we develop these ideas, beliefs, and attitudes about what is acceptable according to our culture. To put this into perspective if our culture says your beautiful when you skinny, then some people believe that if they’re not skinny, they aren’t beautiful. Essentially since girls are generally valued for their appearance, they are likely the ones to internalize this idea into their thought process. The media also plays a role in the cultural and societal acceptance. A couple of examples that are very common are models and movie stars. Most often models are in every magazine, on every billboard, and in most commercials. Even T.V. shows like America’s Next Top Model gives children at a young age what the idea of â€Å"beautiful† is. Most movie stars aren’t overweight, which generally can contribute to both males and females being self-conscious about what the ideal appearance should be. There are three kinds of aspects that deal with the development of an eating disorder; behavioral, mental, and physical. The National Eating Disorder Association explains the more we focus on thoughts and feelings of our weight and how we look the more we may be missing out on life overall. When we focus on weight and body image, it can become an obsession, which can contribute to emotional and physical issues. The mental aspect of an eating disorder focuses on the opinion of yourself or your self- esteem. Self-esteem and body image both go hand in hand when it comes to one’s body. Eating disorders not only deal with the mental and behavioral aspects, but those of physical as well can contribute. Anorexia and Bulimia can lead to serious health problems such as kidney failure, heart problems, dehydration, and in excessive cases malnutrition, which can lead to death. A study by the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders reported that, â€Å"The mortal ity rate associated with Anorexia nervosa is twelve times higher than the death rate associated with all causes of death for females 15-24 years old.† Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder in which results in thinness through starvation. It has the highest mortality rate of any psychological disorder, although we know little about the causes of this disorder. Generally the standard cause of death includes both  effects of starvation and suicide. This is disorder is also known as a visible eating disorder, because most are noticeably thin, although some hide their thinness with big clothes or wearing layers. During this time this individual is not maintaining a normal or healthy weight for their age, height, or gender. Anorexia nervosa tends to have two forms first being starvation or restricting. These individuals reduce their caloric intake and increase physical activity to maintain an abnormally low weight. When your body goes into starvation mode, it can alter your body. The second form is either binge eating, purging, or can be both. When anorexia nervosa is in its early stage these behaviors were seen in over half of the individuals. During anorexia nervosa a person can come to weigh less than 85% of the ideal body weight. Anorexia tends to occur during early adolescence or 10-12 years old. People who suffer from anorexia suffer from not only physical illness, but psychiatric too. Some include cognitive impairment, body-checking, low self-esteem, self-absorption, ritualistic behaviors, extreme perfectionism, and self-consciousness. The two most common psychiatric illnesses with anorexia are depression and anxiety. Some physical symptoms that may occur or develop over time are electrolyte imbalances (sodium and potassium levels), osteoporosis (decreased bone density), lanugo hair, dry brittle hair, low body temperature, low blood pressure, slowed heart rate, growth retardation, bloating, constipation, fidgeting, and loss of tooth enamel and dentin, and dehydration. However, the official diagnosis of anorexia nervosa in females requires the absence of menstruation (amenorrhea), for at least three consecutive months. The deficiency of menstruation is a normal response to starvation and weight loss and the body will then shut down the reproductive functions. Treatment plans of Anorexia nervosa often depend on the individual’s needs which may include medical care and supervision, nutritional counseling and therapy. If they have had severe weight loss, hospitalization is essential to get them back to an appropriate weight. This individual will need assistance in developing new patterns of thought process in their eating patterns. The earlier detected the less treatment necessary. Depending on the individual and the amount of time they have had the eating disorder; treatment can take a short or long period of time. Each person varies in the recovering process of the disorder. According to the National  Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, â€Å"Only 1 in 10 men and women with eating disorders receive treatment. Only 35% of people that receive that treatment for eating disorders get treatment at a specialized facility for eating disorders.† Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder that is characterized by a binge and purge pattern. Unlike Anorexia, people who have Bulimia can be at a normal weight range, but still have that fear of weight gain and they are generally very unhappy with their body image, shape, and size. It is also an invisible eating disorder, because individuals are usually of normal weight or over-weight. It can be difficult to place a caloric intake on a binge, but most agree around 1,000 calories is the minimum; however it can be up to 20,000 calories. Bulimia, unlike Anorexia, usually occurs during late adolescence or early adulthood, about 18-22 years old. These individuals persistently follow the pattern of binging in combination with some form of compensatory behavior, which is intended to reverse the effects of the binge or prevent weight gain. Compensatory behaviors include actions such as; self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or other agents, fasting, and excessive exercise. The behavior of Bulimia may not be obvious because they do it in secrecy, because they feel a sense of shame and sickness of what they did. This pattern of binging and purging most likely occurs several times a week. Some data addresses a theory that individuals born after 1960 are at greater risk for the disorder, because it is more of a â€Å"modern occurrence† than anorexia. Usually more common in urban areas which suggests that environmental exposure and social learning play a role in the development of this disorder. This disorder is 9 times more common in females than males. Coincidentally, people with Bulimia also have psychiatric and physical aspects. It is estimated that 80% of individuals with bulimia have another psychiatric disorder. The psychiatric features are depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, extreme perfectionism, self-consciousness, irritability, impulsive spending, shoplifting, and may or may not have substance abuse problems, although the most common are anxiety disorders, major depression, substance use, and personality disorders. The two most common personality features those similar to those who have anorexia nervosa, perfectionism and low self-esteem. People with bulimia are likely to be more impulsive and have higher stimulus or sensation-seeking behavior. They also have a  tendency to exhibit more erratic and impulsive traits. Some physical symptoms of bulimia include; dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, kidney problems, inflamed sore throat from purging, acid reflux, swollen parotid glands, gastrointestinal complications, irregular menstruation, constipation, bloating, sensitive and decaying teeth and tooth enamel from stomach acids. Like Anorexia the treatment for Bulimia is essential for the individual’s health. For Bulimia there are a few more options such as; reducing or ending the binging or purging pattern, nutritional counseling, and cognitive behavioral therapy, prescribing medication, and accessing reasons for the illness. About 70% of people who have the disorder of Bulimia recover from it. According to the DSM the criteria is specific for anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. However, most people who have eating disorders do not meet the criteria. There is a different way of diagnosing these particular individuals which is by the Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS). According to the textbook, Abnormal Psychology the â€Å"DSM-IV lists six examples of how the symptoms of EDNOS differ from those of the other disorders. Patients may have: 1. all features of anorexia nervosa except amenorrhea. 2. all features of anorexia nervosa except drastic weight loss. 3. all criteria for bulimia nervosa except frequency of binge eating or purging or duration of 3 months. 4. regular, inappropriate compensatory behavior after eating small amounts of food. 5. chewing and spitting out food (purging disorder). 6. binge eating disorder (binging without compensatory behavior.† Binge eating disorder is characterized by regular binge eating behaviors, but without the compensatory behaviors. Binge eating disorder or BED is a recent addition to the DSM, and is not yet an official psychiatric disorder. Since it was a recent addition little is known about its morbidity and mortality. Some research indicates that a person can be ill with BED for approximately 14.4 years which may suggest that BED is not just a temporary stage. The two most common forms of psychiatric disorders are depression and anxiety like most other eating disorders. Of females 3.5% meet the criteria of BED and of males 2%. BED is also found in approximately 5 to 8% of obese individuals. Eating disorders in females and males as discussed are not generally similar. In anorexia nervosa women and girls are more common to have this disorder than men and boys, essentially the ratio being 9 to 1. Many different theories  have been presented as to why it affects women more than men. The most effici ent theory is believed to be the increased pressure on females to have the ideal appearance or the â€Å"perfection† of the female body. Even though bulimia nervosa is also approximately 9 to 1, women to men can be somewhat sex-biased. Men tend to rely on nonpurging forms of compensatory behavior after binge eating, rather use excessive exercise. It is male athletes that feel pressured to remain thin and fit and focus on their weight and body shape excessively. For binge eating disorder the sex ratio is equally balanced. The developmental factors of eating disorders can assist in determining the causes as well. In anorexia nervosa it generally uncommon during childhood, although it is occurring increasingly. Bulimia nervosa is usually seldom conveyed before puberty. In anorexia nervosa the disorder itself and the associated symptoms can lead to isolation from peers and family. It can also have negative effects on the family emotionally and financially. The parents especially undergo extreme anxiety and struggle to understand why their children are doing this to themselves and their body. All this stress and financial difficulties with the expense of treatment can weaken or ruin a family’s functioning. For bu limia girls who develop mature figures earlier than their peers may develop disappointment, which can lead to earlier experimentation to design controlled eating and weight, which could very well increase the risk of an eating disorder. Binge eating generally begins in late adolescence or early adulthood. There are many treatments for eating disorders, the treatment goals for individuals with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder differ somewhat, although there are some aspects in common. The treatment goal of anorexia nervosa are increased caloric intake and weight gain so later treatments for psychological aspects of this disorder can be dealt with more effectively. For bulimia nervosa the focus is on the normalization of eating, elimination of binge eating and purging, and improvement of the psychological aspects of the disorder as well. For binge eating disorder individuals who are overweight the goal is to elimination of binge eating and normalization of eating. Also either weight stabilization or weight loss can be effective. In anorexia nervosa inpatient treatment can be accomplished by having a disciplined team to succeed. The first and most important step is weight restoration. Weight is generally not the only  factor to consider some other crucial factors such as medical complications, suicide attempts or plans, failure to improve with outpatient treatment, interference with school, work, or family, and pregnancy. Inpatient treatment is very difficult for the patient and the family as the patient is feared of giving up the symptoms, essentially the patient could have developed a phobia of food. It is important for the doctor to create a safe environment to make the patient feel safe and to also obtain the patients trust to make the hospitalization a success. Biological treatments include medications to assist in the cure of the disorder or assist in decreased symptoms of the disorder. Medications prescribed for anorexia nervosa have shown to be ineffective currently. In bulimia nervosa fluoxetine (Prozac) has been known to decrease the core symptoms of binge eating and purging and associated psycho logical features such as depression and anxiety. The FDA approved the treatment of fluoxetine for the treatment of bulimia nervosa, but for no other eating disorders. Although fluoxetine reduces the symptoms it is still not found to reduce or have permanent remission on long-lasting effects. A treatment that is necessary but not a sufficient intervention for all eating disorders is nutritional counseling. An additional treatment that helps individuals change their thinking patterns that contribute to their problem is cognitive-behavioral therapy or (CBT). Recovery rates with CBT wavy from 35-75% at five or more years of follow-up. For anorexia nervosa some evidence suggests that CBT may reduce relapse in adults after weight has been restored. However it’s unclear how effective CBT is with individuals who are extremely underweight. For bulimia nervosa the basis of CBT is self-monitoring. The individuals keep track of what they eat, the situation they were in, and their thoughts and feelings. CBT focuses extensively on relapse prevention for all eating disorders. It is also an effective treatment for a binge eating disorder. Binge eating disorders may first be offered a help-book or an online cognitive-behavioral program online to use at their own pace. For the family theories of anorexia nervosa a family-based intervention is directed to change the dysfunction of the family. This therapy can assist the family in being around healthier and a place to have open communication. Some modern approaches to family therapy for anorexia nervosa include conjoint family therapy, separated family therapy, parent training, and the Maudsley method,  which focuses on parental control of the initial stages of renutrion. The seven values include working with experts who know how to help you, working together as a family, to not blame your child or yourself for the problems you are having, focusing on the problem before you, not debating with your child about eating or weight-related concerns, knowing when to begin backing off, and taking care of yourself because you are the child’s best hope. In conclusion I have discussed and explained the three types of eating disorders; anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. I explained what factors can contribute to the development of an eating disorder. I deliberated three aspects of eating disorders such as the mental, behavioral, and physical. The analyzed the three eating disorders and gave a definition for each. I gave various personalities and other psychological dysfunctions that can come along with eating disorders. I expressed the sex ratios and developmental factors of eating disorders and explained the contributing factors for each. Also in discussing the symptoms of eating disorders lastly I identified some treatments that can assist in reducing symptoms and essentially preventing relapse. Some treatments that were acknowledged are inpatient treatment, biological treatments, nutritional counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and family-based interventions. Works Cited About eating disorders. (n.d.). Retrieved from National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders website: http://www.anad.org/â€Å'get-information/â€Å'about-eating-disorders/â€Å'bulimia-nervosa/ Body Image: Loving Yourself Inside and Out. (n.d.). Retrieved from The National Women’s Health Information Center website: http://www.womenshealth.gov/â€Å'bodyimage/â€Å'eatingdisorders/ Eating Disorders. (2008). Retrieved from National Eating Disorder Information Centre website: http://www.nedic.ca/ Eating Disorders: anorexia nervosa, binge eating, and bulimia nervosa. (n.d.). Retrieved from U.S. Library of Medicine, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health website: www.nlm.nih.gov/â€Å'medlineplus/â€Å'eatingdisorders.html Eating disorder statistics. (n.d.). Retrieved from

Italian Market Entry By Superior Chocolate Marketing Essay

Italian Market Entry By Superior Chocolate Marketing Essay Superior Chocolate (SC) is a UK based producer of high quality organic chocolates. The firm has three product lines, namely (a) block chocolate, (b) chocolates for special occasions and (c) speciality chocolates. All chocolates are produced with high quality organically grown ingredients. Whilst the company is far smaller in size than the global and regional market leaders, the firm has established market presence in the UK, the USA and Australia and production facilities in the UK and Australia. The company has adopted a comprehensive marketing strategy for (a) improvement of competitive advantage by improvement of financial strength, and (b) expansion into other markets, in both emerging and developed countries. SC is now actively examining the potential of different foreign markets for entry and expansion, from various business perspectives. Objectives This study aims to investigate and analyse the potential of the Italian market for entry by Superior Chocolate. The study entails the conduct of a focused situation analysis of the Italian market and an examination of the various routes for entry. Such analysis and examination is followed by appropriate recommendations and a concluding section. 2. Analysis of Italian Market The analysis of a national market for purposes of entry and expansion by foreign business organisations is a complex and multi-dimensional task that involves assessment of various market factors, environmental conditions, extent of competitiveness and existing opportunities and threats (Gilligan Wilson, 2005, p 48-51). This study focuses on important market factors in order to produce a representative snapshot of existing conditions and to thereby facilitate decision making on entry and expansion options. Market Analysis Whilst Belgium and Switzerland are globally known for the excellence of their chocolate making skills, chocolates are extremely popular in most European countries and both the UK and Italy have strong chocolate markets (Mintel, 2010, p 1-2). Chocolate consumption in the UK at approximately 600,000 tonnes per year is however much more than that of Italy, which consumes approximately 215,000 tonnes every year (RTS Resource Ltd, 2010, p 1-2). The consumer expenditure on chocolates in European countries in 2007 is detailed in the chart provided below. Consumption of Chocolates in Europe (RTS Resource, 2010, p 1) Information obtained from various surveys and reports lead to the following conclusions about existing market conditions in Italy and other European countries. Expansion of the chocolate market in the immediate future appears to be limited because of low population growth forecasts, depressed economic conditions and competition from other snacks and indulgences. The market is reaching saturation level and much of its growth is coming from market segments rather than from total expansion. The market is in a state of maturity and growth is less than 1% every year. Marketing experts feel that European chocolate sellers should try to improve their market shares by (a) exploiting the health properties of chocolate, (b) engaging in product differentiation through use of shapes, ingredients and packaging, (c) increase in brand diversification, (d) introducing low calorie and low sugar products, and (e) developing the super premium sector. Whilst opportunities do exist in the chocolate market, they are becoming increasingly difficult to find because of increasing market competition and fragmentation (RTS Resource, 2010, p 2). Environmental Analysis Careful environmental analysis of target markets enables prospective market entrants to understand the various environmental features that are different, in small or large measure, in such target markets from those of their existing markets. An understanding of such differences helps organisations in shaping their entry strategies (Hooley, et al, 2008, p 81-86). Such environmental analysis is normally carried out through the examination of political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal aspects in line with the well known PESTEL format (Hooley, et al, 2008, p 81-86). It is however unlikely that any significant political, environmental and legal issues could cause concerns about the entry of Superior Chocolate in Italy because both Italy and the UK are governed by EU regulations and norms. SC should thus, for purposes of environmental analysis, focus mainly on economic and social issues (Mintel, 2010, p 1-2). Italy is an advanced and affluent nation with an annual GDP of 1.74 trillion USD and a per capita income of 29,900 USD. The ongoing economic recession has however hurt the Italian economy significantly and both annual GDP and per capita income have reduced significantly from 2007 levels. Future growth prospects are also not very optimistic and the country expects to face bleak economy conditions for some years to come. Such depression in economic conditions has obviously led to reduction of discretionary incomes, losses of jobs and decrease in consumer spending (Central intelligence, 2010, p 2-3). The consumption of chocolates has however not been affected, even though the segment has not shown any significant growth in the last two years (Mintel Snapshotà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ¦, 2010, p 4-9). Whilst such trends provide reason for some optimism, continuance or worsening of economic conditions could well lead to reduction in demand and consumption of chocolates in Italy. Italy is an ageing society and with the death rate exceeding the birth rate, the population of the country is decreasing steadily. The average age of the country, at approximately 44 years, is higher than the average European age and significantly higher than that of the UK. With consumption of chocolates being associated with children and young people, the growing average age of the country could lead to stagnation or even reduction in demand for chocolates in future. Italian society is also culturally very different from that of the UK (Central intelligence, 2010, p 2-3). Italians are fiercely proud of their history, society and culture and tend to be ethnocentric in their choice of products. This is even more pronounced in personal preferences like clothes and food. Research has conclusively revealed that greater levels of ethnocentricity by and large lead to preferences for local products, thereby making it difficult for foreign companies to enter and expand in such markets (Arvi dsson, 2003, p 34-39). Porters Five Forces Analysis Porters Five Forces Model provides a useful tool for the analysis of the extent of competitiveness in a particular industrial or sector. Such analysis is done by investigation of five specific market forces, namely (a) the extent of rivalry between market participants, (b) the power of buyers, (c) the power of sellers, (d) the potential threat from new entrants, and (e) the threat from substitutes (Porter, 2008, p 7-15). The extent of competition between market participants is intense. As a strong consumer of chocolates and cocoa products, the Italian chocolate market is crowded by global, regional and local suppliers. With Belgium and Switzerland being geographically proximal, numerous chocolate producers from these countries service the Italian market. The power of buyers is very high because of the numerous choices available to them. The power of suppliers is however low because the ingredients used for production of chocolates are essentially generic in nature and freely available. Chocolates are an easy entry business area in terms of investment and technology and the threat from new entrants, especially those of local origin is high. With new developments in foods and snacks occurring frequently, the threat from substitutes is also high. It is evident from the above analysis that the market for chocolates in Italy is not just sophisticated, mature and slow growing, but also intensely competitive in nature. Areas of Opportunity Whilst the market for chocolates in Italy is undoubtedly slow-growing and intensely competitive, the popularity of chocolates among western populations is an undeniable fact. Italy, with a consumption of more than 200,000 tonnes per year is the fourth largest consumer of chocolates in Europe (Mintel Snapshotà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ¦, 2010, p 4-9). Such a strong market undeniably provides opportunities for new entrants. Superior Chocolate, with its range of high quality chocolates produced with organically grown ingredients will essentially target the premium segment of the product. It should be able to find strong niche opportunities through careful differentiation of product qualities and carefully chosen marketing and distribution strategies. Consumption of chocolates is now being associated with a range of medical benefits and chocolates could in future become a strongly recommended consumption product for ageing populations (Stibich, 2009, p 1-2). Such changes in consumption patterns could be significantly important for the ageing Italian population and lead to strong growth in chocolate consumption in future. It is important to note that Italy just about one third of the chocolate consumed in the UK, even though its population is practically 80% of that of the UK. Increase in per capita consumption levels of chocolates in Italy to those of the UK can lead to significant market expansion and cr eate substantial market opportunities for Superior Chocolate. Entry Routes International expansion and marketing not only requires very careful analysis of market situations and business environment but also an appropriate choice of entry strategy. Business firms wishing to enter new markets can choose from a range of alternatives starting with direct export of products to importers in target markets to appointment of franchisees, setting up of joint ventures or investment in fully owned facilities (Kotler, et al, 2008, p 71-77). The choice of entry routes is shaped by a number of external and internal considerations like existing production capacity, distance of target market from current production centres, cost of investment in production facilities in target locations and local environmental considerations (Kotler, et al, 2008, p 71-77). Most organisations that supply non-perishable products to proximal countries choose direct exports as the favoured mode of entry and support such exports by strong local marketing and distribution facilities (Hooley, et al, 2008, p 81-86). Whilst direct exports could facilitate the entry of Superior Chocolate into the European market, the additional freight and cold chain costs could well make the firmà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s products uncompetitive in the long run, especially in comparison with competitors in proximal countries or those who have local production facilities. SC must essentially aim to establish its captive production facilities in Italy, even though it can initially enter the market through direct exports. Such a medium term strategy will not only enable it to be more competitive in terms of costs and prices but will also enable it to adapt and customise its products in line with local preferences. The company must, if such a strategy is adopted, decide between putting up its own facilities and entering into a joint venture with a local business firm for production and manufacture of chocolates. The decision to set up own facilities in foreign countries, whilst keeping full control of the business within the organisation, is however far more difficult to implement because it calls for detailed environmental and cultural knowledge of the target market. The adoption of the joint venture route on the other hand entails entering into a partnership with a local organisation for sharing of investments, management control, responsibilities and profits of the proposed business (Adcock, 2000, p 35-42). Whilst joint ventures require mutual understanding, collaboration and a spirit of give and take and beneficial partnership, they enable foreign companies to associate with local business organisations and take advantage of their knowledge of local environmental, social and cultural condit ions (Adcock, 2000, p 35-42). 3. Recommendations The foregoing analysis of market and environmental conditions leads to the inescapable conclusion that the Italian market for chocolates, whilst strong and with potential for good future growth, is at present increasing very slowly and is furthermore fragmented and intensely competitive. With the Italian economy experiencing a prolonged period of economic downturn, Superior Chocolate will have to face and overcome intense competitive challenges and difficult market conditions in order to establish and expand its product line. The demanding market and environmental conditions, coupled with the ethnocentric social and cultural environment, call for the careful selection of entry strategy. It is recommended that the firm should engage in planned market activity and enter into an agreement with a strong, reliable and well known local business firm for production and sale of chocolates. Such a strategy will enable SC to obtain extensive information about local market realities and customer preferences and adopt appropriate business strategies. Market leaders like McDonalds, KFC and Mark and Spencer are using the joint venture route successfully to expand their operations in foreign locations. Superior Chocolate will also benefit from adopting such an entry route. 4. Conclusions Superior Chocolate is a UK based producer of high quality organic chocolates. The firm has three product lines, namely (a) block chocolate, (b) chocolates for special occasions and (c) speciality chocolates. The company has adopted a comprehensive marketing strategy for (a) improvement of competitive advantage by improvement of financial strength, and (b) expansion into other markets, in both emerging and developed countries. This study investigates and analyses the potential of the Italian market for entry by the company. The analysis makes use of a focused situation analysis of the Italian market and an examination of the various routes for entry for its final recommendations. The analysis of market and environmental conditions leads to the inescapable conclusion that the Italian market for chocolates, whilst strong and with potential for good future growth, is at present increasing very slowly and is furthermore fragmented and intensely competitive. The demanding market and environmental conditions, coupled with the ethnocentric social and cultural environment, call for the careful selection of entry strategy. It is recommended that the firm should first enter the market through direct exports and thereafter enter into an agreement with a strong, reliable and well known local business firm for production and sale of chocolates. Such a strategy will enable SC to obtain extensive information about local market realities and customer preferences and adopt appropriate business strategies.

Information Security: Public Key Infrastructure Essay -- Information

With the increase of digital communications and transactions, a stronger level of security is required to protect the user and their data transactions. Systems, servers, personal computers, mobile devices, tokens and smart cards are all being used ubiquitously to view protected communications. With the influx of data management, there is an ever-apparent contest between the two adversaries in the game of Information Security: the developers and the hackers. PKI was designed to leverage the Internet infrastructure for communications (CITE Samuelle 2009). While minimizing hostile exploitation of data, decreasing data theft, and providing an additional layer of trust through keys pairs and digital certificates, PKI is used to verify the identity of the user and the authenticity of the data. A Public Key Infrastructure is not a single device or entity; it is a compilation of technology, infrastructure, and practices that enables large scale use of public key cryptography to provide authenticity, confidentiality, integrity, and non-repudiation services (CITE). The word cryptography is derived from the Greek word â€Å"kryptos†(CITE), which means hidden. It is the technique in which a cryptographic algorithm is used to take the original plaintext information and then make it unreadable to everyone except for those it was initially intended for by scrambling it into ciphertext. This is known as encryption, and the process that unscrambles the message to make it readable again is called decryption. The National Security Agency (NSA) even defines cryptography as the science and art of making codes and ciphers(CITE NSA 2009). In cryptography, a key or code is used to scramble the message which results in a cipher. Cryptography has not alw... ...rce. (2007, Sept 18). Public Key Infrastructures - Federal PKI. Retrieved Sept 15, 2009, from NIST-Computer Security Division: http://csrc.nist.gov/groups/ST/crypto_apps_infra/pki/index.html NIST. (2009). Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) Publication 186-3, Digital Signature Standard (DSS). Washington, D.C.: Department of Commerce. NSA. (2009, 01 12). Frequently Asked Questions Terms and Acronyms - NSA/CSS:. Retrieved 10 11, 2009, from National Security Agency: http://www.nsa.gov/about/faqs/terms_acronyms.shtml US-CERT. (2008, 12 31). Vulnerability Note VU#836068. Retrieved 10 12, 2009, from US-CERT: http://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/836068 VeriSign, Inc. (2009). National PKI: The foundation of trust in government programs (A White Paper). Retrieved Sept 15, 2009, from VeriSign White Paper: http://www.verisign.com/static/national-pki-government-trust.pdf

Concretions :: essays research papers fc

Dating back to the 18th century concretions have been known as geologic curiosity’s due to the various sizes, shapes and compositions. Concretions have also been thought to be dinosaur eggs, extra-terrestrial debris, human artifacts and animal and plant fossils. Due to these curiosity’s I will try and enlighten you more on these in the following by explaining the process in which they are formed and explaining some locations where they can be found in large outcrops. â€Å"The word "concretion" is derived from the Latin "con"-- meaning "together" -- and "cresco" -- meaning "to grow."† Concretions are hard compact accumulations of mineral matter and are found inside sedimentary rocks. Some examples of this are Sandstone and in some weathered volcanic rock. Concretions come in many different shapes and the most common of the shapes is spherical or disk shaped. Concretions are the most varied-shaped rocks of the sedimentary world. The way concretions come to be is the mineral matter concentrates around the nucleus of a host rock. The nucleus is often organic such as a tooth or leaf or shell or fossil. As the mineral matter concentrates around the nucleus it forms harder zones known as nodules. Concretions are very odd in the sense that they very in size, shape, color and hardness. Often concretions are mistaken for bones, fossils, meteorites and other odd objects. They can be so small that it requires a magnifying glass to be visible or as large as 10 feet in diameter and weigh hundreds of pounds. Concretions can also have somewhat of regular shapes such as boxes, blocks, flat disks, pipes, cannon balls and have even been known to resemble parts of a human body such as a foot or ribs. Concretions are most commonly composed of calcite but sometimes can be composed of iron oxide or iron hydroxide such as goethite. But also concretions can be composed of other minerals ranging from siderite, ankerite, dolomite, pyrite, baryite and gypsum. Concretions form in many different ways. The box shape of some ironstone concretions most often depend on the way a sandstone or shale bed breaks up due to the action of weathering into regular blocks of various sizes. The way in which this separation takes place along natural planes of weakness in a rock such as a horizontal bedding surface and vertical joints. Before this process of separation, as well as during the separation ground water soaks into the rock and circulates through the planes of weakness making the rock more porous.

Bandura’s Social Modeling

Albert Bandura argues that personality is shaped not only by environmental influences on the person, but also by the person’s ability to influence the environment. Social learning states that thinking is an important determinant of behavior.The inclusion of cognitive viewpoints within a behavioral framework has been a relatively recent trend, especially apparent in the work of personality learning theorist J.B. Rotter. Rotter believes that the most important variables in determining personality are the person’s expectations concerning future outcomes and the values of different reinforcements that might occur in a particular situation (Atkinson et al., 2000; Smith et al., 2001).In other words, a person’s behavior depends on what he expects the outcome to any particular action to be and what those outcomes are worth. The likelihood that someone will be aggressive when trying to return a merchandise to a department store would depend then, on that person’s e xpectation about whether or not aggression will work (Atkinson et al., 2000).In Bandura’s viewpoint, human motives (Atkinson et al. 2000; Papalia, 2002).   With this premise, the theory is basically leaning toward the philosophical idea of freedom.   Man is free to chart his course and how he is supposed to fulfill his various needs; i.e. his physiological dimension. In addition, the manner with which he carves himself in a particular niche that satisfies his psychological domains is also based on his own volition.There is no flavor of unconscious thoughts pervading motivation like when the idea of psychological instincts being interpreted within Maslow’s understanding; in contrast to this notion, any individual can basically control their own behavior.This theory believes on the capacities of human nature to achieve what man wants to achieve rather than be held captive by forces within him or in his external world; it is the internal determinants such as we may ch oose skills to lie dormant or latent (Papalia et al., 2002; Smith et al., 2002). For example, i may not imitate aggressive behavior unless i am provoked or/and believe that I am more likely to be rewarded by it than punished for it.Since the premise of this theory hinges on freedom, a person’s characteristics therefore are developed by social influences. According to Bandura and later by personality theorist Rotter, Observational Learning,   accounts for most human learning. It occurs when, as children, in my case for instance, I observe my parents cook, clean, or repair a broken appliance.Biology or heritability is deemphasized, rather the value of being introduced on a particular aspect or several aspects of human experience is basis or the basis for the development of human characteristics. There is evidence that observational learning for simple â€Å"single action† tasks, such as opening the halves of a toy barrel to look at a barrel inside, occurs as early as o ne year (Smith et al., 2001).This theory eventually emphasizes individuality or uniqueness, as it fundamentally illustrates in its assertion that every one has the capability for breakthroughs in circumstances which may be difficult. Man is also capable to learn and communicate about himself and others (Papalia et al., 2002; Smith et al., 2002).Observational learning is not mechanically acquired through reinforcement. We can learn by observation without engaging in overt responses at all. It appears sufficient to pay attention to the behavior of others (Atkinson et al., 2000).Since man is free, unique and has the possibilities to accomplish whatever he is set to do, it is also asserted that man is proactive: he can choose how to respond in any situation and may even extend himself to advance his interests, both positive and negative at whatever goal or in whatever circumstance he may be in (Papalia et al., 2002; Smith et al., 2002; Atkinson et al., 2000).The theory overall is hopefu l and positive in every essence.   Individuals then have all the chances to make their lives fulfilling, impact others on virtues of honesty, charity and generosity, if and when he determines himself to be one.Likewise, he can also influence and negatively affect those that surround him when he chooses to do so. In this perspective then, an individual has high hopes of changing his attitudes and disposition, as well as his physical arrangements in life (Papalia et al., 2002; Smith et al., 2002).