A situational analysis of the application of social media as a business strategy for firms and organizations

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Introduction

E-business is the most recent trend in business, and most organizations have been forced to take their businesses online so as to increase their market share, as well as, the sale of their goods and services (Hall and Rosenberg 5). With e-business, organizations are forced to undergo various changes with regards to marketing of their products online. Because e-business has forced companies to eliminate direct contact with customers, organizations have to device new ways of reaching out to their customers. Essentially, business organizations have adopted social media as a marketing tool and strategy for the promotion of sales and increasing income for the business organization (Anderson 2).

Proposed Research Topic

This paper proposes a situational analysis of the application of social media as a business strategy for firms and organizations. Social media has been credited with surpassing traditional marketing strategies, hence making it the best business strategy for organizations. Accordingly, this study is aimed at investigating the significance of applying social media as a business strategy, specifically for small businesses an firms.

Purpose and Objectives

The overall goal of this study is to examine the application of social media as a business strategy in organizations and firms. However, this goal has been broken down into the following sub-objectives

To examine how social media improves customer relationship management.

To investigate how social media encourages demand of products and services.

To examine how social media allows the monitoring of competitor activities.

To identify the various ways in which social media can be used for the creation of a strong brand.

Background

Since the introduction of social media in the business industry, business organizations have been forced to consider the possibility of taking it up as a business strategy for their organizations. Companies that have been able to, successfully, implement social media as a business strategy have testified to the improvement of business operations hence profitability. However, the actual success of applying social media as a business strategy has been the center of debate in both academic circles and the business environment. Researchers cannot determine whether social media is responsible for company success on its own, or it is the combination of social media with other business strategies. This research study is, therefore, aimed at finding out the degree to which social media can ensure organizational success and competitive advantage in their respective business environment.

Significance

Examining the application of social media as a business strategy in the organization will assist small businesses in comprehending the importance of social media for their businesses. Specifically, this study will assist business organizations in discovering the various ways through which they can link their customer relationship management strategies to the organization’s marketing strategies. Businesses will also gain awareness on how to use social media to stimulate demand, as well as, monitor competitor activities for the benefit of organizations. Conclusively, this study is significant because it will encourage awareness on how social media can be used to build brands.

Research Description

Various types of research will be conducted to complete the research study. Research studies to be carried out will include both qualitative and quantitative research studies on the application of social media as a business strategy. Specifically, the research carried out will incorporate internet research, library research, interviews, as well as, industry surveys. These research studies will help readers understand the degree to which social media has been utilized in the industry, as well as, the implications of its application to business organizations.

Methodology

Five organizations that have successfully applied social media as their business strategy will be selected for this study. Another five organizations that have not taken up social media in their business strategies will also be identified to provide a comparison of the impact of social media to the organizations. A situational analysis of the application of social media in these organizations with, therefore, be carried out to determine the degree of application and lack of application of social media as a business strategy for the organizations. This analysis will be carried out though observation, as well as, interviews with the members of staff in the chosen organizations. In addition to organizational interviews, a survey will be carried out on a randomly selected sample population, to identify their thoughts and perceptions regarding social media.

Limitations

Because social media cannot be applied as a business strategy on its own, the study will be unable to differentiate the successful impacts of social media, as opposed to, other business strategies. Additionally, the time period for the research may not be sufficient enough to determine the overall impacts of the application of social media to the organization. For that reason, the study will be forced to rely on information from employees in the organization, which may be biased and untrue. Conclusively, because the teams involved with the research study will be outsiders to the organization, organizations may not reveal all the information regarding the application of social media as a strategy for fear of competition.

Work Cited

Anderson, Eric. Social Media Marketing: Game Theory and the Emergence of Collaboration.

New York: Springer, 2010.

Hall, Starr and Rosenberg, Chadd. Get Connected: The Social Networking Toolkit for Business.

New York: Entrepreneur Press, 2009. Print.

Kaplan, Andreas M. and Haenlein, Michael. Users of the World, Unite! The Challenges and

Opportunities of Social Media. Business Horizons 53.1 (2010): 59–68.

Pickren, Marc. “Social Media Marketing vs Traditional Marketing”. Marc 2 Market, 22 February

2010. Web. 16 November 2011.

Qualman, Erik. Socialnomics: How Social Media Transforms the Way We Live and Do Business.

New York: John Wiley and Sons, 2010. Print.

A REVIEW ON LESSONS LEARNT FROM THE US CURRENT DIPLOMATIC RELATIONSHIP WITH IRAQ FROM 2003

A REVIEW ON LESSONS LEARNT FROM THE US’S CURRENT DIPLOMATIC RELATIONSHIP WITH IRAQ FROM 2003

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Table of Content

Abstract……………………………………………………………………..3

Chapter I: introduction………………………………………………………4

Background…………………………………………………………………4

Statement of the Problem……………………………………………………5

Chapter II: Literature Review………………………………………………7

Chapter III: Research Methodology………………………………………..15

Research Design……………………………………………………………15

Data Collection……………………………………………………………..17

Reporting……………………………………………………………………18

Data Management and Ethical Consideration……………………..………18

Reliability and Validity of the data analysis Instruments………….…….….18

Chapter Summary…………………………………………………………..19

Chapter IV: Research Findings and Analysis………………………………20

Conclusion………………………………………………………………….27

References………………………………………………………………….28

Abstract

The relationship between Iraq and the United States serves as a lesson on different diplomatic ideas and the underlying socio-economic and political ideologies. Various scholars have in the past shed light on the sociological aspects of the existing relationship after the decade long invasion and occupancy of Iraq by United States. Theoretical concepts of international relations will be explored to unveil the true picture of U.S – Iraq interaction aftermath. In the interest of researchers, academia and political science, it is imperative that this case is given critical assessment. This issue presents an avenue of intellectual discourse concerning the diverse disciplines that discuss international relations. In view of the social structure, economic policies and political strategies, this debate covers substantial research ideas that are important to ascertain the validity and credibility of existing knowledge.

CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION

Background

The United States’ stay in Iraq has been on the global spotlight for over a decade. The question that scholars keep asking is the consequences this has on their relations. According to Lake, apart from Iraq, United States interest in the Middle East has raised eyebrows leading to in-depth research on various dimensions (2009:19-20). The Geopolitics of Middle East has been a significant contributor to its overall influence in the global economy. However, its socio-economic policies and political system has been the subject of discussion. Iraq wields a lot of power in the region, and its political ideologies were being seen as a threat by the west. It is not a matter of retelling the chronology of the United States’ invasion of Iraq, but the impacts this has on the global socio-economic and political position America occupy. According to Christol, diverse acts of atrocities under the guise of setting the new global order of democracy was met with mixed reactions by Middle East countries and Iraq in particular (2004: 47-9). In this research, it is paramount to note that the raging debate on the theoretical concepts surrounding diplomatic relations is the center stage for international peace agreements.

According to Tate, the traditional mentality that international relations were limited to particular disciplines is ruled out (2010: 128-9). This explains the need to break away from the confines of philosophy, sociology and economics as the only relevant disciplines exploring diplomatic ties. International relations theories should equally not be misconstrued as solely for academia. This means it should be given much attention as it plays a critical role in mutual understandings in, cross boundary relationships especially in this wake of open economies. The current relationship between United States and Iraq offers a lot of lessons on the feasibility of tested theories concerning international relations. It reflects the complex international interactions that are characterized by divergent socio-economic and political ideologies. Kenneth N. Waltz is one of the scholars who assert the fact that diplomatic history has been marred with elitist decision making.

Statement of the Problem

Waltz roots for empirical testability of the existing knowledge and on falsifications as a methodological ideal, which, as he admits, can have only a limited application in international relations. The case of US attack on Saddam Hussein and subsequent changes in approaches of managing Iraq indicates two sides of international relations theories. These include realism and idealism key in defining the relations among states and U.S – Iraq in particular. A realist theory can be seen as a tradition of speculation about the society or states. However, Ikenberry, et al. claims that in international relations the realist theory is based on emphasizing the constraints imposed on politics by the nature of human beings (2009: 93-4). The realists belief that national self-interest mandate nations to constantly demand power for the purpose of security and existence.

Hans Morgenthau is of the opinion that power is the undisputable feature which determines states policy on both foreign and domestic policies. The realist theory is also known as the power or traditional theory which is centered on power politics. It is concerned with an explanation of what happened, how it happened which is used to predict the trend of what to happen in the future. The lessons observable from the case of the U.S – Iraq relationship triggers further research into the theories that must be discussed to boost the increasing need for an International Corporation.

According to Brennan, United States wield political and economic power and therefore play a central role in making decisions on global issues (2013: 139-40). The capitalism ideology has seen the America make several attempts sink the communism, and this was the disguised intention of America. Military intervention by the U.S in most of its operation in the Middle East has significantly tainted its image in the international platform. Fingers point at neoconservatives who were well connected as the key architects behind the Iraq war. In regard to Guney, there was a political motive behind the lobbying with economic strategies (2007: 64-7). It is worth to note the involvement of many U.S presidents during their long stay of U.S military operatives in Iraq. The intertwining realism versus idealism approach dictates the perception of various people towards the U.S on how they handled Iraq.

CHAPTER II: LITERATURE REVIEW

In respect of all facts towards the US relationship with Iraq, a lot of historical statistics can be established. Considering the deteriorating power of the U.S in 1972 as it was losing the battle to the Vietnam, the same may hold for the case of Iraq. The ensuing scenario compelled President Richard Nixon to create an entente which was meant to deal with Soviet Union using China. Although this approach worked, concerns were raised over U.S alliance with such a genocidal Chinese government. In the words of Ryan & Kiely, this case is an equivalence of the U.S strategy of using neighbouring countries to Iraq like Iran to manage it (2009:351-2). This was a case of idealism approach that actually cost the U.S as the global view of the unfolding event was that of using military power to prove a point. All the above cases presented a dilemma to the United States. The attempt to reconcile morals with ideals was difficult. Political scientists noted that it was prudent for U.S to form an alliance with China, Russia or Britain, but this was likely to taint d’etre raison for the administration of U.S. The other side of the argument fronted for moral regime would only be available when the regime itself was existing. This event exposed the diverse strategies of the U.S to defend its socio-economic and political position in the world against the rising influence of Nazi and the existing Soviet Union. The case of Saddam’s increasing influence in the 1990’s, in the Middle East had begun to shake U.S in a similar way, and this must have been initiated sensitivity towards Iraq.

Another school of thought refers to United States past records in international relations like in the case of Soviet Union, Britain and china. It is apparent that US had to manage Iraq with allied support of some countries in the Middle East. The ironical twist over this incident was that such allied states are always morally incongruent with U.S. This is the underlying truth in the case of Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in boosting operation of U.S. against the AL Qaeda. On this basis, Iraqi problem was seen as normal and justified. Critical evaluation of the arguments registered by various entities to this effect leaves one clear indication that Iraq invasion by United States was valid. Feldman believes that there was an extension of the discussion that Middle East democracy would only be achieved through the United States approach (2003: 41-4). The finite nature of American power necessitated the support by other countries in its attempt to eliminate Jihadists. This is a supportive idea to the fact that foreign engagement in some cases depending on the circumstance may require back up by other states. The Muslim Radicals in Iraq were many and neighbouring states input is required in terms of military training ground, strategic planning and intelligence services.

One lesson that was learnt from this incident is United States’ inability to overthrow regimes while at the same time courting alliance. Idealism approach assertion that a country cannot continue its moral policies while pursuing economic and physical security is trivial. In some circumstances, security demands power which is always entangled in corruption. Besides, seeking justice without sufficient force may turn tables against the country. All these facts indicate that American must just have its military force in its fingertips and use it when situations arise. In this respect, U.S involvement in the Middle East was likely to be interrupted with poor democracy in Iraq hence its use of military force. After all, in the socio-political history, there are claims that sometimes war can come to an individual even without igniting it. The situation of America in Iraq exposed it to two mandatory moral losses i.e. annihilation or an opportunistic corruption.

Meernik asserts that the political leadership does not offer the luxury of thinking about fair decision making (2004: 120-3). Even not taking action is considered a decision in the political sense. A critical assessment of the respective regimes of George Washington, Franklin Roosevelt, and Richard Nixon to Barrack Obama only explores one doctrine. Long term goals are the best for sustainable political principle otherwise short term is coupled with a lot of compromises. United States has been a leading campaigner for capitalism and past wars like with Vietnam was pursued to this effect. Such have been its strategic plan of imposing new world order and suspected threat is to be smashed by dialogue or war. It is, therefore, no strange that Iraq was headed the wrong way hence its collision with U.S. Some historians point out that if idealism approach had been used by United States, Adolf Hitler would have triumphed in World War II. It is, therefore, critical for the U.S government to understand that seeking democracy beyond its political resources and military endowment, threatens strength of democracy. This idea complimented with the observed relationship existing between US and Iraq reveals that, in some circumstances, national interest’s defense justifies individual interest’s protection.

The moral argument in respect of United States involvement in the war with Iraq, in a show of fighting for democracy stands out excellent. There is a good moral rationale against U.S setting up a military base in Saudi Arabia and provoking the Al Qaeda. According to McCormick, one reality that United States has to contend with is that it has many enemies against few allied forces that it can use to pursue its will in the Middle East (2010: 102-5). Just like the case of the cold war and World War II, moral policies must be preceded by splitting and crashing the enemy. In respect to Middle East, United States had to use divide and rule strategy to strengthen its presence in the region against the opposition of Saddam Hussein and Al Qaeda militia. This was evident with Bush’s pragmatic approach in Iraq. Martin puts it that the realism theory of politics resurfaces equally in the debate of U.S – Iraq relationship (2003:51-3). This concept disposes morality as it can compromise the security of the country. It is common knowledge that United States attack of Iraq was not authorized by United Nations for obvious reasons. While UN relies on proving guilt, U.S move indicated that they were investigating innocence on matters of nuclear weapons. However, from the perspective of Americans, pursuing moral discourse would disadvantage their interest of gaining influence in the Middle East hence compromise their long term economic and political schemes. The pretense of invading Iraq in search for weapons of mass destruction was not approved by the UN Security Council. The realists argue that the foreign policy understates the significance of morality. In this respect, America pursued its individual interest in Iraq through military intervention in a show of absolute power thereby evoking rebellion from most of the Arab states like Iran and other Muslim radical entities like al Qaeda. Realists champion for strong military power as a platform for international political deals. America had tried this in Vietnam and Iraq with less care about the feeling of other countries. Crusade for capitalism has been its priority and cannot be interrupted by any force lest they issue military reinforcement. This means heavy spending on the military by citizens’ tax. The recent withdrawal of U.S military personnel from Iraq by Obama has nothing to show in terms of gain to American citizens since their invasion.

United States applied different strategies to tame Iraq and restore what they termed as political sanity. This means that, in some instances, mixed policies were employed. In that respect, President Bush was seen as beginning to pursue realism and liberalism. In this case, multilateral ties with other countries make it difficult to wage war in a foreign land in an attempt to solve a problem. With the increasing international pressure from the allies of U.S particularly the Middle East countries in regard to how it was handling Iraq, it had to bring in liberalism approach. As Amstutz explains, the Middle East holds a significant position in the global trade but their strong geopolitical unity and congruent religious doctrines had begun to threaten U.S actions in Iraq (2013: 87-9). To minimize on any potential loss of track on its mission in Middle East and keep its diplomatic ties intact, it masterminded evicting Saddam Hussein from power and planned a democratic process of coming up with a new president. This is an approach of the complex independence which required America to push for internal acceptance by the Iraqi citizens. To achieve this, they installed a president who would consent to most of their policies while lobbying for peace in the public. International relations proved indispensable to the U.S, and this culminated to the commencement of withdrawing troops. The United States had substantial trade and socio-political policy disagreements with some of its Middle East allies like Israel, but was not easy to use military intervention to bring a solution. In such scenarios, United States used economic incentives to press for their interests.

Past political records identify President Clinton as the only leader who effectively blended realism with idealism in the process of promoting human rights. Brutal actions of United States in Iraq were carried out at the height of Bush leadership. He was a strict idealist who inadvertently ignored the public talk against U.S invasion of Iraq. It did not matter to him what the outcome would be provided the mission was focused on meeting the demands of America. A lot of corruption, deceit and propaganda misinformed the actions of Bush and he completely considered Saddam Hussein a tyrant who needed elimination. The picture painted all over in the entire military operation including the capture and execution of Saddam Hussein is an explicit show of absolute idealism. There is a tricky policy yoke in which Obama found himself. In view of Kaufman, the progressive withdrawal of U.S troops from Iraqi has placed his presidency under some question mark (2013: 123-4). The ongoing policy reforms in Iraqi portray him as a realist, but there is an information gap here since these are mere implementation of Bush’s plans. While Obama was campaigning in 2004 for the presidency, the issue of Iraq was coming out more prominently, and that tag has always remained controversial in the wake of his recent past foreign policies. The eminent lose that United States had begun to foresee made the congress push for withdrawal from Iraq. From 2003 United States had begun to apply diplomacy in handling the Iraqi situation.

There are many effects that U.S invasion of Iraq has caused within the tenets of its socio-economic and political landscape. There has been internal rebellion against western policies by a section of Muslim radicals that has made Iraqi a place of frequent bombing. Initially, a Muslim dominated country; there has been a gradual shift in socio-cultural behaviour which U.S wanted to use as a medium of infiltrating the society (Fernández, & Smith, 2005: 123). A lot of reported U.S led atrocities caused emotional pain to many citizens especially during 2003. The pursuit of Saddam Hussein and subsequent execution was coupled with mass infrastructural destruction, and this significantly affected the economic progress of Iraq. It is worth to note that Iraq owns a significant proportion of OPEC supply share, but this was affected by the explosion of many oil fields over the 1991 gulf war period ignited by the United States. It is worth noting that misrepresentation of facts by media and the underlying realities all worked against the United State in respect to their foreign ties with Arab League Nations (Rabasa, 2004: 156). Mass destruction meted on Iraqi people was considered to create more instability as Iraqi was forced to retaliate against U.S sympathizers like Kuwait (Ikenberry, & Moon, 2008: 89-90). Iraqi was seen as the epicenter of Muslim extremists’ groups like Al Qaeda, which has put the citizens under perennial fear of explosives. On the political front, destruction of Saddam attracted mixed feelings of the Iraqi people but the majority had a taste of a democratic election.

Multi-dimensional analysis of post invasion in Iraqi put the USA at the losing end. This perceived failure by United States significantly affected its standing in the UN council. Its unauthorized invasion of the Iraqi raised the question on its voting rights within the UN. The Security Council had to lobby for adoption of more friendly foreign policies in respect to the United States dwindling relationship with Iraq. The new turn of events from 2003 exposed the vulnerability of U.S if it was to continue with its brutal attack on Iraq. In this regard, a more favourable international relations approach that would conform to the growing pressure of globalization was proposed (Mccormick, 2010: 187). The theory of complex interdependency requires a more diplomatic approach towards international disagreements. United States presence in Iraq was slowly increasing the tension in Middle East, and this even sucked in other influential states in the region like Iran (Lebow, 2008: 56). It was out of this growing multilateral trade ties that forced United State to begin a journey into diplomacy. This theory is referred to as liberalism and comes between traditional idealism and realism.

Outright declaration of war without UN Security Council was becoming more challenging to the U.S, and this prompted Obama administration to start pulling out troops as a way of showing commitment towards new international policies. Although the complex link between realism and idealism political ideologies has not been exhausted, liberalism came in handy for the U.S as a potential power broker in this era of globalization.

CHAPTER III: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Introduction

This chapter outlines the research design which offers an explanation into what type of research this study is. It also defines the population of the study and the particular sampling technique used. The process of data collection is carefully detailed, and the method of data analysis explained. As Maoz points, the event that has taken place in Iraq is recorded in various items that include publications and other sources (2004:57-8). The mode of data search and analysis in this definitely constituted critical assessment of the past records. In the opinion of Harvey, the print and electronic media has been at the forefront of covering a series of activities that took place in Iraqi, and they have been a consistent supplier of relevant information although thorough verification is important in this case (2012:67-9). In the words of Blight, political analysts give opinion on the observed behavior of the general majority and therefore most of the journals featuring in newspapers and magazines are a fertile ground for quality evidence in support of the underlying facts of the subject matter (2012:70-2).

Research Design

Research design is considered as a “blueprint” for research, dealing with at least four problems: which questions to study, which data are relevant, what data to collect, and how to analyze the results. In this case, several organizations and secondary data collection approach would be appropriate. According to White, the best design depends on the research question as well as the orientation of the researcher (2010:77-8). The study will adopt descriptive survey as a method of collecting information by using a standardized form of interview schedule and administering a questionnaire to a sample of individuals and institutions. In the opinion of Lake, this method is most appropriate for the analytical study of the existing relationship of the United States and Iraq from different perspectives (2009:57-8). Both the secondary and primary data will be used in the analysis. As Maxwell puts it, Partial quantitative data included the graphical representation of the economic trends through the period of Invasion which sets avenue for analytical search of relevant facts (2005:81-2). Thompson claims that the United States was seen as having applied the three theories of international relations across the decade, and this must have resulted to different economic growth and development trend in Iraq (2009:12-5). The current reconstruction in progress is seen to be facing various intrinsic challenges and hence need for comparative analysis of the past development records and present. According to Thompson, Lange, & Peltason, the design is also suitable because it gives an in-depth description of the phenomena in their existing setting (2010:58-9). Descriptive survey is also preferred because it is economical in collecting data from over a large sample with high data turn over.

The study will use both qualitative and quantitative approaches since the research will need to survey Iraqi and American Scholars, expectation and citizens’ understanding in using the prevailing international relationship between the two countries. As asserted by Laurel, this will be an appropriate variable in collecting and summarizing data that will be used in analyzing the researchers, political leaders, economic analysts and the civilian community’s expectations and understanding in the theories applicable in United States attach in Iraq (2003:67-8). According to Thompson, this research strategy has been considered necessary because of its ability to view comprehensively and in detail the major questions raised in the discussion (2009:87-8). The proposed research will be divided into 2 stages. The first stage will mainly focus on inspecting existing sources to uncover usage figures any information that will be useful during the study. The second stage will include qualitative research to provide in-depth information regarding theoretical view and expectation of the society. In the agreement with Maoz, the recent emergence of globalization is attached to the liberalism theory of international relationships (2004:72-4). It is, therefore, important to note that the various schools of thoughts are represented by different scholars and are derived from their level of efficiency learnt from past experiences.

Data Collection

This is a qualitative research that focuses on the relationship between United States and Iraq. It is, therefore, important to note that much attention will be accorded the secondary data. As Harvey puts it, critical information can be attained through extensive literature review of past information (2012:64-8). In most cases, the cost against time factor is taken into consideration when settling on a particular source of data. Qualitative data may not take much time in analysis but requires extensive verification for the validity, reliability and relevance. According to Blight, the subject under study is a mixture of history, politics economics and sociology and therefore needs diverse sources that would be brought together (2012:74-5). Parts of the study were analyzed through a well-structured questionnaire that was assigned to top socio-economic and political opinion leaders. White says that this includes United Nations agencies particularly the Security Council as the topic under consideration requires the input of its administrative perspectives (2010:79).

Reporting

Following the qualitative and qualitative nature of the proposed study, an interim presentation-report was reported. This was be followed by a meeting with the sponsors of the research to discuss the next of the research. An outline PowerPoint presentation was created for the interim presentation. Once the sponsors had given the go ahead, there was a formal presentation of the entire findings, together will the conclusions drawn. Two copies of the research summarizing the results of all phases of the research were then submitted to the necessary stakeholders.

Data Management and Ethical Consideration

The collected data is largely qualitative and therefore a descriptive analysis various journals, books and other secondary data from the historic archives was used. Besides, Microsoft management systems e.g. excel and access could not be significant in managing and controlling qualitative research outcomes.

Reliability and Validity of the data analysis Instruments

The information attained from past records was tested for reliability, and it emerges that the scholars or authors have deep academic background with long standing experience thereby boosting the verification of the issued information.

Chapter Summary

The chapter has largely outlined the research design; the survey method was selected because the study focuses more than one case in the population. The population was divided into strata from which the sample size was selected. The chapter then proceeded to outline the procedure for data collection and outlined the process for data analysis.

CHAPTER IV: RESEARCH FINDINGS AND ANALYSIS

Evaluation, analysis and interpretation of this topics finding needs clear cut definition of qualitative and quantitative research. It is important to note that the sources of data for this subject are primarily secondary and more of quantitative. It is, therefore, imperative that the emphasis is put on relating the learnt internal relations theories with the practical implication on the relationship between United States and Iraq. In view of Kaufman, there are several findings that can be discussed in the US invasion of Iraq, its consequences with particular focus on their relationship (2013: 125-7). Initially, Iraq was seen as the center stage of streamlining Middle East by the Western powers as it was very strong and influential in the region. The aftermath of the decade long presence of United States in Iraq has severely weakened it, and its political voice in the region is virtually missing. All these are attributed to the United States efforts to use Iraq in propagating its agenda in the Middle East. The overthrowing and execution of Saddam Hussein was received by mixed reactions across the country and the Arab world at large. It can be noted that narratives of the past events in Iraq remained polarized since the socio-economic policies of US in Iraq significantly affected the Middle East. He internal socio-economic and political changes in Iraq have resonated in outside its borders due to many observed factors that include a shift in political mechanisms.

According to Cohen, the emergence of elected government in which political elites from the majority Shia was empowered coupled with the formal recognition of Kurdish regional autonomy and the widespread sectarian violence significantly contributed to instability in the region (2003: 67-9). These facts lead to a contested debate by the Iraqi scholars, researchers, and common citizens to hold divergent views concerning the United States foreign policy and its consequences in the world socio-economic and political order. Martin says it is evident from the research that United States shift of attention towards areas of emerging dynamics of change which includes Arab world uprisings experienced in Iran and Syria evoked Iraqis emotions on perceived negligence by the western policy makers (2003:56-8). Statistics still indicated that Iraq was United States bargaining point in the Middle East due to its geostrategic centrality within the region. Critical evaluation and analysis of the situation in Iraq was seen to be the indicator of predicted future of the entire Arab world. This meant that the United States initiated political crisis in Iraq was seen as a catalytic to the future socio-economic development challenges beyond the borders. The report on the Unites States relationship with Iraq brought out many perspectives of its socio-economic and political future since its inversion. This is closely discussed in relation to the different theories of international relations applicable in the scenario. It began with an overview of the political changes experienced since United States launched their operations in Iraq with much focus on political violence, economic conflicts and the campaign on nation-state coupled with a complex transition of political power from dictatorship to democratic outfit. The research findings related to the relationship between the two countries of diametrically opposite cultures emphasizes the implication of Iraq’s domestic politics, its foreign policies and subsequent relationship with Middle East and international powers. According to Feldman, this constitutes the impact of regime changes on the public understanding of democracy (2003:87-9). Other vari

A Speech on the Effects of Excessive Consumption of Alcohol

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A Speech on the Effects of Excessive Consumption of Alcohol

“The Guest of Honor, invitees, ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon? It is my humble submission today to share on one of the most contentious and extensively spoken issues in our society. Alcohol consumption is a subject with several impacts. The fact that alcohol consumption is widely discussed implies that it bears weight not only in our social-economic lives, but also in our daily practices of nation-building. Therefore, we need to find a way of moderating the effects of excessive consumption of alcohol.

To begin with, I will take you through the various effects of excessive alcohol consumption on your body and life. Alcohol is a drug which alters your physiologic ability to think, see things clearly and act accordingly. There are numerous health disorders associated with excessive alcohol consumption; the hazards are either short-term or chronic. The CDC has enumerated some of these effects in its websites (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1).

Among the short term health hazards associated with alcohol include unintentional injuries such as traffic injuries caused by impaired sight. A number of road accidents have been linked to excessive alcohol consumption. In 2006 alone, the National Highway Traffic Administration approximated 17, 941 deaths related to alcohol abuse and close to 275,000 injuries caused by collisions from alcohol use. These figures represent close to 40% of the total deaths in the USA (McGovern and White 86).

There is increased violence resulting from alcohol use. Most of these cases involve close family members or friends. According to CDC, alcohol is among the leading causes of child-mistreatment and neglect. About 35% of violence victims report that the abuses occur when the perpetrators are intoxicated. According to TAADAS, a woman is assaulted every 15 seconds in the USA, by a boyfriend, live-in partner or a husband. Women within the age bracket of 15-44 years are mostly vulnerable to domestic violence. While national statistics on violence are sourced from the FBI, or emergency reports, most women report violence cases to friends, churches, mosques or synagogues. Sexual assault is another form of violence ((TAADAS 1).

Excessive alcohol consumption in pregnant women can lead to abortion or fetal alcohol syndrome. CDC states that miscarriages and stillbirths are common happenings in pregnant women who consume excessive quantities of alcohol. Alcohol has the power to cross the placenta into the developing fetus. The fetus, therefore, develops a pattern of mental and physical deficiencies. In the USA and Europe, the prevalence rate for fetal alcohol syndrome is approximately 0.2-2 for every 1000 live births (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1).

The effects of excessive alcohol are quite many. Chronic alcohol use is even more fatal than short-term use. It results to the development of many chronic disorders, neurotoxicity, as well as social problems. Heavy drinking is implicated in decreased number of red blood cells that responsible for carrying oxygen around the body. This will in turn lead to anemia, which can aggravate a number of symptoms such as fatigue, lightheadedness, dyspnea (shortness of breath), et cetera (Dawson, Grant and Li 902-908).

Various researchers have linked heavy and consistent drinking to the development of cancer. Some of you may be surprised, but their rationale is very logical. When a person consumes alcohol, the body converts that alcohol to acetaldehyde, a potent carcinogenic molecule. Various cancer sites in the body have been linked to alcohol use. They include; the mouth, throat, colorectal region, breasts, and so on. The incidences of cancer are much greater in alcoholics who smoke than those who don’t.

Chronic alcohol use can lead to clumping of platelets, the blood cells implicated in blood clotting. Since platelets are found within blood vessels, when they clump, they form a blood clot. A blood clot within the heart vessels may cause heart disorders. The heart muscles can deteriorate causing a heart attack or any other fibrillating condition. If the clot happens in the brain vessels, the victim is likely to develop stroke.

The liver is mainly responsible for eliminating alcohol from the body. If there is consistent alcohol consumption, the liver may fail to eliminate the alcohol. In the process, it becomes scarred and eventually hardens. Liver cirrhosis, the hardening of the entire liver develops. A person with liver cirrhosis is unable to carry out any metabolic activity. A lot of toxic metabolites accumulate and death is inevitable. Alcohol use may also affect the gastrointestinal tract, aggravating a variety of disorders (Dawson, Grant and Li 902-908).

Alcohol is responsible for over 80,000 deaths yearly in the USA, according to CDC. This makes alcohol the third largest lifestyle related cause of mortality in the US. The cases of excessive consumption handled by physicians rose from 1.2 million in 2006, to the current figure of 2.7 million cases. Furthermore, CDC reported that, in 2006, the economic burden related to alcohol consumption was approximately $223.5 billion! (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1).

Ladies and gentlemen, with such whooping figures, we cannot just sit and watch the nation turn into a drinking den. Alcohol claims both lives and economic resources. We need to come out strongly and agitate against excessive alcohol consumption if we need to forge ahead as a nation. That responsibility lies with each one of us. Thank you for being patient and finding the time to listen to me.”

Works Cited

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). HYPERLINK “http://apps.nccd.cdc.gov/DACH_ARDI/Default/Default.aspx” Alcohol-Related Disease Impact (ARDI).

Atlanta, GA: CDC. Retrieved from h HYPERLINK “ttp://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-u” ttp://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm on December 11, 2013

Dawson, DA, Grant, BF, and Li, TK. “Quantifying the Risks Associated with Exceeding

Recommended Drinking Limits.” Alcohol Clin Exp Res, 2005; Vol. 29: pp. 902-908.

McGovern, TF, & White, WL. Alcohol Problems in the United States: Twenty years of

Treatment Perspectives. Routledge, 2003.

Tennessee Association of Alcohol, Drug and Other Addiction Services (TAADAS). Domestic

Violence and Substance Abuse. Retrieved from HYPERLINK “http://www.taadas.org/factsheets/DVFacts.htm” http://www.taadas.org/factsheets/DVFacts.htm, on December 12, 2013.

The Statue of Augustus of Prima Porta

The Statue of Augustus of Prima Porta

The Statue of Augustus of Prima Porta was found in 1863 in Rome in the suburb of Prima Porta. The figure measures 7 ft. (2.08 m) tall. The statue is made up of marble and adopts features from a Greek athletic statue from the fifth century B.C., the Doryphoros of Polykleitos.

The construction of the face renders a youthful emperor with a broad cranium and a narrow mouth, sharply ridged eyebrows, an aquiline nose, and a rounded mouth. The hairs are arranged in a comma shape, and the neck is broad and short. The cuirass is covered with figures which commemorate Augustus’ victory over the Parthians. The hand shows a domineering posture, emphasizing the image of Augustus as a powerful ruler of Rome.

The robe is an enhancement of Augustus’ sanctity and also an indication of the close connection to Caesar and the divine world. The Cupid and Dolphin emphasize Augustus’ claim to the divine lineage of the Julian family to Aeneas, the founder of Italy, and Venus. The dolphin refers to the birth of Venus, who emerged from the sea and also depicted Augustus’ naval victory. Finally, the pose of the statue represents bare legs, which is an illustration of the notion of Augustus’ divinity.

The stereotype that Males are better Doctors than Females

Name

Institution

Course

Professor

Date of Submission

The stereotype that Males are better Doctors than Females

Men are supposed to work while women have to do their homes and take care of the children. It is a cultural stereotype that still exists in the people’s minds up to today. The issue still exists regarding female doctors that they are inferior to their male counterparts who tend to overpower the medicine field. It is a threat to the society as it is a kind of gender inequality where people take it that males are doctors while females are supposed to be nurses and not more than that. It is assumed that women will spend fewer hours working and dedicate the rest to bringing up children and do other chores related to the entire family. The segregation goes to a further extent that inequality is perceived even when it comes to payment and job offers. In this discussion, the stereotype that exists in the society regarding males making better physicians than female is discussed to a profound extent in consideration of how the gender inequality ridicule women.

Who said that female could not do as better as men in the medical field? The old-school myths still exist in the modern society with some beliefs that feminine gender is slow in taking up and carrying out activities related to medicine. They are therefore discouraged to take the involving courses in the healthcare as well as specializing in fields such as Anesthesiologists and Cardiologists among other surgery sectors. It is disgusting that the stereotypes still exist up to the 21 century where patients do not respect doctors in their work just because they are women. Male dominance is there in the medical field as according to the statistics and research did, the most trending personnel in this particular career are the middle-aged men who are believed to offer the best services in the nation and worldwide (Francisco, page 720). It is not that females have not majored in healthcare, but the victimization they face and people’s mentality cannot grant them chances to appear in such a list. Some prominent female doctors have done great things and offer excellent services in their career, but the public diminishes them for the simple reason of portraying feminine characteristics.

Why do there exist differences between the male and female doctors up to today? It is clear evidence that the feminine prejudice is still there in the society and not about to end soon unless appropriate efforts are put in place to eliminate the discrimination. Does it mean that men physicians work many hours that their female counterparts? It is not true as in ordinary days the tradition believes that women have to be concerned about home affairs have been eradicated and they are seen working even late house to save the lives of their patients as well as sharpening their skills. People have to accept the natural role that feminine have to bear children and take the responsibility of breastfeeding and bringing up the tender children. It is right that they have to devote some time for the family and their children as well by living the place of work earlier than the male workmates who have their wives and other house helpers who attend the housework. However, this does not mean that women be degraded when it comes to salary as it does not only pull them back financially but also demoralize them which results in minimum dedication to their careers (Fassiotto et al. page 293).

It does not mean that women should pay less than males just because at any instance or another have to undertake a maternity leave hence end up working for few hours in that particular period. In fact, they should be appreciated for accepting the call of nature of bringing us into being and sacrificing all their time to bring us up as well as providing education which shapes one’s destiny. Where do men get time to stay with their children and family in general? All people regardless of the gender have social cognitive and sense of belonging as it is humane to devote time for the family as well as leisure (Philip, page 497). Furthermore, not all women that go for these maternity leaves or spend much of their time with the family. They dedicate all their efforts and time to the career as doctors who work for many hours during the day and night hence they are available to serve their clients at any time.

Female chauvinism should end as it does not only affect women doctors who are qualified and in the field but also the young people who are striving to major in medicine at the college and other lower education levels. Women are said to be slow in taking up the content related to medicine are well as putting the skills in practice which is not the reality. They end up being discouraged following a physician career as well as specializing in the multiple medicine sectors, and they end up being nurses who work under the doctors’ instructions or be there to assist the physicians (Carr et al. page 191). Speed and accuracy are personal traits that differ from one individual to another, and they are improved and efficient regarding the knowledge, practice as well as experience that one has. Indeed, some females are faster than men and can perfectly offer healthcare services better and faster than their male counterparts. Therefore, it is not justified to discriminate or put boundaries that are gender biased thus preventing young female perusing their potential career that will enable them to be more productive in the society.

According to the discussion above, it is evident that stereotypes that female are not better doctors than male still exist in the society today and it is a prejudice that ridicule women as they are capable of offering excellent services in the medical field. Change is unavoidable and must be accepted to enhance societal development where there are gender equality and freedom of specializing in an area that one desires and have the potentiality. In recent days, change has been seen in the historical context where many females are enrolled in medicine related schools nationwide than males. The government, as well as the public at the individual level, have to take the responsibility of empowering women doctors and encouraging many young females to venture into medicine related causes as they have the capability.

References

Carr, P. L., Gunn, C. M., Kaplan, S. A., Raj, A., & Freund, K. M. (2015). Inadequate progress for women in academic medicine: findings from the National Faculty Study. Journal of women’s health, 24(3), 190-199.

https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/jwh.2014.4848

Fassiotto, Magali, et al. “Women in academic medicine: measuring stereotype threat among junior faculty.” Journal of Women’s Health 25.3 (2016): 292-298.

https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/jwh.2015.5380Francisco Juan Jose Viola. International Brazilian Journal of Urology, 01 December 2014, Vol.40 (6), pp.719-721

http://discover.linccweb.org/primo_library/libweb/action/dlSearch.do?vid=FLCC2800&institution=FLCC2800&search_scope=FLCC2800&query=any,contains,medicine+stereotypes

Philip, Susan P. Social science & medicine (1982), August 1997, Vol.45 (3), pp.497-9

http://discover.linccweb.org/primo_library/libweb/action/search.do?vl(freeText0)=+Medicine+&vl(351305893UI0)=sub&vl(479130667UI1)=all_items&vl(1UIStartWith0)=exact&fn=search&tab=default_tab&mode=Basic&vid=FLCC2800&scp.scps=scope%3a(FLCC2800 sfx)%2cscope%3a(FLCC2800)%2cscope%3a(FLCC0100)%2cscope%3a(oai_fcla_fof)%2cprimo_central_multiple_fe

A Risk Control Model For The Execution Of Construction In Public Housing Sector Projects In Trinidad And Tobago

A Risk Control Model For The Execution Of Construction In Public Housing Sector Projects In Trinidad And Tobago

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Research Papers submitted XXXXXXXXXXXXXX in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of

Doctor of Construction/Project Management

Tutor XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Department of Construction/Project Management

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Copyright © 2012

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All Rights Reserved

Introduction

Trinidad and Tobago is an archipelagic state that is located in south of Caribbean. The state is one of the developed nations when it comes to housing and infrastructure. Housing sector and mostly in the three mayor cities of Trinidad and Tobago do range from apartments that are luxurious. The buildings also have got waterfronts and build with high class ceramics. There are other buildings that lack indoor plumbing as well as enough access to motor vehicle parking’s. The housing development corporation of Trinidad and Tobago was in the past faced with procurement scandal that involved some malpractices in its rules, regulations and procedures on award of tenders. A commission of enquiry was formed to investigate all procurement practices in the housing and construction sectors whereby it gave its report recommending that, a procurement process in the construction sector should be fair and free. Integrity as well as transparency in the process should be properly ensured at very highest levels. Tender rules, procedures, regulations as well as processes of the successful contractor in all procurement practices related to construction contracts should be in compliance with the rules and regulations of the housing development corporation body of the Trinidad and Tobago and the same processes should be applied in other contracts with similar contracts. A model on risk analysis should be carried out effectively to control cost overruns as well as other economic trends that may arise in the future. Risk analysis model on utilization of costs and minimizing contractual claims in the housing sector should be strategically structured.

Literature review

Risk analysis model helps to curb any malpractices in the housing and construction sector. In the practices of procurement, it should be carried out efficiently to prevent any corrupt deals from interfering with the process of procurement practices. The model also helps in utilizing costs and minimizing economical trends as well as contractual claims and variations. If procurement of the materials of the public construction sector is interfered with corrupt dealings then there is possibility of illegal matters arising in future. Fraud in tendering can also be witnessed and this if discovered can lead cancellation of building contract that was on the process. Trinidad and Tobago was affected by the procurement scandal involving tenders in the public construction field. This led to formation of a commission of enquiry to investigate all malpractices that were involved in the process.

A clear stated policy on public procurement processes should be developed and those in authority maintain its efficiency in effectiveness to ensure that any malpractices that may bring illegal measures are prevented. A model of risks should be structured to prevent any misusage of funds and other costs. Risks should also be taken effectively after proper planning to ensure that all developments of infrastructure in Trinidad and Tobago succeed without any downfall. The impact of using prime costs on the nominated suppliers as well as contractors in public sector contracts should be controlled. There should be also control over all the prime cost sums and provisional sums at all sectors related to construction, housing projects as well as infrastructure in Trinidad and Tobago. An issue of uncompleted designs, poor administration and supervision, design variations and poor management of resources, costs as well as delivery of housing and building projects led to rise of contractual claims in the state of Trinidad and Tobago. The state should draw an effective administration and supervision model of the projects whereby all employees part of the contract will understand who to report to. This will make communication easier and everyone will be able to understand his or her own duties well. A strategy on the management of funds should be developed and be adhered to by all staff responsible for financial matters. Mismanagement of the project costs and poor delivery can result to malpractices in the process of the construction contracts and this later may lead to rise of contractual claims that can make the state using more other resources to defend itself over the legal case.

The state of Trinidad and Tobago should come up with a good consideration plan on the performance of the local contractors and construction consultant’s as well international contractors and consultants. Tendering of those contractors should be carried upon good performance. The consideration of quality work and low cost should be strictly ensured when the state is awarding the construction contracts. Awarding tender to a company that develops infrastructure of poor quality after completion of the project may also bring contractual claims in the future. A strategic model on local and international tendering should be clearly structured to prevent any contractual malpractices from interfering with the projects after completion. In 2009, the housing sector of the Trinidad and Tobago state was hit by a corruption scandal due to use of turnkey approach and which is commonly referred to as design build approach in delivering housing projects on the public sector. This approach was used with an intention of moving from traditional and old designs of tender approaches. There were claims of some malpractices been involved in the process of using the turnkey approach and which also led to rise of contractual claims and later was one of the main aspects that was been investigated by the commission of enquiry. The public sector on housing should consider using an approach of tendering that is suitable for the project concerned and all legal aspects and requirements on tendering should be considered by the industry employer and the client. The issue of cost overruns, work delays and workmanship that was so defective on construction projects also led to contractual claims in Trinidad and Tobago. Some contractors use workmanship in their projects and if the personnel are not well trained on the work they are carrying on, this can lead poor quality projects. The government of the state should have come up with a risk analysis model on control of the finances to control any cost overruns. It should also not take risks by awarding tenders to contractors who may not seem to come up with quality projects irrespective of their low costs. The state can also improve the public housing sector by developing risk analysis model that combats any existence of price gouging as well high profiteering. This, if ensured will control any rise of contractual claims from the public.

In the procurement process of the public construction projects, the state should ensure that the taxpayers get adequate value for money. Any housing project that may not lead to or add value of money to the public sector should be avoided since it can bring contractual claims in the future. A risk analysis model should be carried out to determine the costs that will be used in the construction project and compare it with the value of the project to the state as well as to the general public. The government of Trinidad and Tobago should also come up with a strategic risk analysis model on the control of the projects delivery and achievable standard of workmanship. The analysis should structure on how quality workmanship of the highest standard will be maintained and achieved as well as how projects will be delivered. This is to prevent any arising risks due to failure to deliver or poor workmanship.

The procurement process of the housing and construction sector should be exercised in an environment that is free from corruption and where fair competition is ensured to the satisfaction of all bodies involved. High integrity as well as transparency in the award of contract tenders should also be ensured because it helps to prevent contractual matters arising from other contracting bodies, the public or from any other body. The government of Trinidad and Tobago was affected by the project of clever heights development houses whereby some procurement malpractices were found between the housing development authority and the company called NH international limited.

The tender rules, procedures, regulations as well as processes of the successful contractor should be in compliance with the rules and regulations of the housing development corporation body of the Trinidad and Tobago and the same processes should be applied in other contracts with similar contracts. Variance that may exist between price that was negotiated and the actual price for the contract should be compared and if any malpractices which may contribute to such variances should be brought forward before the start of the project. Developing a risk analysis model that provides metrics for effective utilization of construction costs will help in implementation and improvement of various public housing projects as well as minimization of contractual claims and arising of variation changes that can affect housing projects in Trinidad and Tobago.

Conclusion

The state of Trinidad and Tobago is one of the wealthiest states on infrastructure. The housing and construction sector was hit by a procurement scandal after the housing development corporation awarded a tender to NH international company on the construction of 408 houses (clever heights development project) whereby some processes were found to be full of malpractices therefore leading to formation of enquiry for further investigation to the matter. The commission of enquiry also investigated other procurement practices pertaining to the public housing and construction sectors. Practicing fair competition in a procurement environment helps in utilizing the construction costs as well as minimizing contractual claims and variations that may arise in the future.

Bibliography

Bon, R. (1992) The future of international construction: secular patterns of growth and decline. Habitat International.

De Long, J.B. and Summers, L.H. (1991) Equipment investment and economic growth. Quarterly Journal of Economics.

Drewer, S. (1980) Construction and development: a new perspective. Habitat International, 5(3/4). Government of Trinidad & Tobago.

Government of Trinidad & Tobago (1984) The Imperatives of Adjustment – Draft Development Plan.

Lopes, J., Ruddock, L. and Ribeiro, F.L. (2000) Investment in construction and economic growth in developing countries, in Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Construction in Developing Countries, Botswana, November.

Rampersad, Frank (undated) Growth and Structural Change in the Economy of Trinidad and Tobago 1951–1961, ISER, University of the West Indies.

Strassmann, W.P. (1970) The construction sector in economic development. Scottish Journal of Political Economy, Construction and development. Habitat International.

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Wells, J. (1984) The construction industry in the context of development: a new perspective. Habitat International.

Wells, J. (1985) The role of construction in economic growth and development. Habitat International, 9(5). World Bank (1984) The Construction Industry – Issues and Strategies in Developing Countries, World Bank, Washington, DC.

Angel, S. 2000. A national settlement program for Trinidad and Tobago: The key to housing policy reform. New York: Inter-American Development Bank.

Babbie, E. 2004. The practice of social research, 10th ed. USA: Thomson/Wadsworth.

Benton, L. 1986. Reshaping the urban core: The politics of housing in authoritarian Uruguay. Latin American Research Review.

Bessis, S. 1995. From social exclusion to social cohesion: A policy agenda. <http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images (accessed on: 03rd May, 2012).

Bradshaw, J, Gordon, D, Levitas, R, 2000. The relationship between poverty and social exclusion in Britain, in: Proceedings of the 26th General Conference of The International Association for Research Income and Wealth, Cracow, Poland.

Carter, T. and Polevychok, C. 2004. Housing is good social policy. <http://www.tdrc.net/Report, HousingGood, (accessed on: 03rd May, 2012).

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George, V. 1999. : A Strategy for Housing Finance, Trinidad and Tobago On Housing 2: Essays from the NHT.

Gordon, D., Levitas, R., Pantazis, C, Middleton, S., Bradshaw, J. and Williams, J. 2000. Poverty and social exclusion in Britain. <https://www.jrf.org.uk/bookshop/eBooks/ pdf > (accessed on: 03rd May, 2012).

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Harvey, D. 1975. Class Structure in a Capitalist Society and the Theory of Residential Differentiation. In Processes in physical and human geography, eds. R. Peel, M. Chisholm, P. Haggett. London, England: Heinemann Educational Books, Ltd.

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A review of journal on nervous and mental disease

 A review of journal on nervous and mental disease

Name

Course

Tutor

Date

Introduction

The study of counseling psychology entails details of the person history which helps in bringing out the underlying issues about their state of health. Nervous and mental diseases are ranked amongst the troublesome and expensive of human diseases when it comes to management. Mostly psychologists are concerned with the study of nervous and mental diseases of humans due to humanity’s highest potential, and with the recognition, understanding, and realization of spiritual, and transcendent states of consciousness. Most schools of thought discussing on psychology have identified five key themes predominantly featured in these definitions: states of consciousness, higher or ultimate potential, transcendence, and the spiritual. Though the field is big and touches on many aspect, the authors working on the journal of nervous and mental diseases have helped in putting all needed information under one volume(Budde,2010,pp 10-17).

What authors were trying to do

Psychological authors had a very strong insight when it came to patients especially the post therapeutic times. Authors were majorly concerned with influence on the patients rather the type of psychotherapy used by the therapist. Accordingly, most contemporary learning centers of psychotherapy laid emphasis on the healing power of the therapeutic relationship.

This edition was extensively discussed and even a debate held on psychotherapy where a former statistician studying primarily signs and manifestation with depressed patients, reported that ;psychotherapy could be more effective compared with placebo, he also alluded that no single treatment mode had the edge in efficacy, finally, he made an assertion that the factors common to varied psychotherapies, such as whether or not the therapist had established a good working alliance with the patient, accounted much more to the discrepancies in outcomes than modalities specific techniques.Whilst some report on the some postulated that by attempting to manualize or program treatment,psychotherapists may actually had been reducing in efficacy, although the unplanned approach of many psychotherapists could not appeal to clients motive to solve their state of health through the application of specific techniques in addition to their traditional approaches(Wilber,2004,pp39-48)

While much early work on this subject was generated from a psychodynamic perspective, authors from other orientations have since written a lot on it and It has been discovered that their alignment seem to predict treatment adherence and concordance together with the outcome across a range of patients diagnoses and treatment modalities.

Also authors aimed at bringing to fore the statistical power of the therapeutic approaches and the extratherapeutic influences like client motivation and the severity of the problems due to specific techniques used.

How the authors did it

Needless to say majority of the authors actually came from the some field of practice, and accessing both the secondary and primary data was easy. For instance the works on eating disorders-a disease, which had widely been written on and many packages published mainly by the American family physician, in collaboration with the American Psychiatric Association. But this doesn’t mean the authors never put into consideration various aspects that to some extent serve as predisposing factors to neural and mental disease causation. A good analogy is when authors consider personality traits especially those associated with the increased problems on eating disorders.

At this point authors puts it that during adolescence these characters become intensified due to a wide range of cultural and physiological influences like, hormonal changes mostly related to puberty, stress associated with the approaching demands of socio-cultural influences and maturity and perceived expectations, especially in areas that concern body image.

The writers also used parameters on environment to exemplify their work. to the environment encompasses many aspects like the Child maltreatment, Social isolation, Cultural pressure, Peer pressure just to name a few. According to them, these factors do not necessarily have an immediate cause on neural and mental diseases but act gradually to produce effects.

Finally is worthy noting, that the successes of this work by the writers was accomplished through various collaborative work .For instance, they worked hand in hand field practitioners like psychologists ,peer group counselors and researchers who provided valuable information that saw this work perfectly completed(Azziz,2009,pp27-34)

What authors found out

The authors finding were based entirely on the treatment and responses thereof. Where by they argued that though diseases could easily be managed, different patients who sought out on medication had individualized feelings and behaviors instigated by their own thoughts instead of external forces such as other people, events, or situations; the idea was

to change how an individual thinks and responds to a situation even if the situation itself remained unchanged. In line with this, authors too touched on the need by patients to accept and commitment to therapy which they considered a center-stage towards a successful management.

Ideally, many patients showed some fear in the course of psychotherapeutic management whilst some patients were intentionally hid in the homes for fear of the untold stigmatization. Furthermore authors found that in the increasingly researchful and scientific world it was possible to counter to cognitive disorders by use of cognitive remediation therapy, which is based on a set of cognitive drills and some compensatory interventions used to enhance cognitive functioning(Mertizner,2005,pp117-129)

Personal view on the author’s findings

In the journal it is further postulated that as one the interventions to remedy this increasingly problematic conditions, religion should not be ignored and the use of cognitive remediation therapy. This must be fur fetched ideas and doctrines of many colorful personalities, in the name of spiritual teachers in the Western countries , such as Alice Bailey or Gurdjieff which have lately and oftenly been entrenched into the transpersonal psychology mainstream scene. This assertion is, generally, seen as dangerous to the aspiration of transpersonal psychologists to mount on a firm and respectable academic status. Since most psychologists incline to an eclectic approach.

Authors’ conclusion

The advocates of Transpersonal psychology most at times infer to themselves as the fourth wave surge of psychology which according to Maslow,even lives beyond

the self power of Humanistic psychology. Most authors reframes it that unlike the other schools of psychology i.e. psychoanalysis, behaviorism and humanistic psychology, which to some extend deny transcended part of soul, transpersonal psychology encompasses the whole spectrum which humans develop from prepersonality to transpersonality. In conclusion the authors lays it that transpersonal psychology could be considered the most integrated complete psychology, in other words it is referred to as a positive psychology par excellence.

Finally the authors view this from personality to transpersonality, neuroscience to Nirvana, mind to meditation, it is a complete a fully fletched science for all round treatment

and development.

References

Azziz, Robert (2009). Synchronicity and the Transformation of the Ethical in Jungian

Psychology, New Jersey: Greenwood

Budde, Stephanne L, Howard, Esther N.(2010). A journal on counseling psychology,

Vol 57(4), Issue 6, p400.

Mertinzer, Ralph (2005). . The Expansion of Consciousness, paperback, Berkeley, CA: Green

Earth Foundation & Regent Press

Wilber, Ken (2004). Let’s Nuke the Transpersonalists: A Response to Albert Ellis. Journal of

Counseling & Development, vol 67(3), Issue 7, p147.

The sports trial

The Murder Trial of OJ Simpson.

Student’s name

Institutional affiliation

Introduction

The sports trial of OJ Simpson is among the most famous trials in the history of sports. Although Simpson is a renowned pro-footballer, people will forever remember him for his involvement in the murder of Nicole Simpson and Ron Goldman. OJ Simpson was charged with their murders in 1994 embarking on a rather controversial trial that caught the attention of the entire world. Simpson was later acquitted of the two murders after 252 days of trial. The purpose of this essay is to weigh in on the facts surrounding OJ Simpson’s alleged murder of his estranged ex-wife and her friend. Further, the text assesses the outcome of the decision made in the case as well as any strange information that changed the direction of the case.

About the Murder Case

On June 12th, 1994, Nicole Simpson and her friend were found stabbed to death on the night of 12th June 1994 in Los Angeles outside Simpson’s condominium. This after Nicole and Simpson had attended their daughter’s dance recital and the family proceeded to go eat at the Mezzaluna restaurant before heading to the condominium. The neighbors testified that they had heard intense barking coming from outside during the night and that one of the dog walkers living in the block has come across Brown’s dog in distress and covered in blood (Sayers, 2020). The two bodies were discovered by the couple that came to return Brown body. The scene had a lot of blood with Brown found lying face down at the foot of the stairs. She had multiple neck and head injuries. The front door was open pointing to the lack of forced entry. Her friend Goldman’s body also lay close to the tree by the fence with several neck and body injuries signifying defensive wounds and struggle. Simpson was arraigned formerly on July 22nd, 1994 where he entered a plea of not guilty before the trial formerly beginning in January with Ilto Lance as the presiding judge.

The outcome of Decision Made

The jury started deliberating on 2nd October 1995 and in less than four hours, they had reached a verdict. Lance, the presiding judge however delayed making the announcement till the following day. OJ Simpson was found not guilty of the murders of Ron Goldman and Nicole Brown on 3rd October. Following the verdict, the public pools were segregated along racial lines. The white population was dismayed by the decision made by the jury while most African Americans supported the ruling. For the black population, Simpson witnessing Simpson being acquitted in a system that systematically discriminated against people of color was a victory. Although Simpson was acquitted, the victim’s families sued him for wrongful death in 1996. Four months later, the jury found Simpson responsible for the death of the two victims in a civil trial awarding their families $33.5 million in damages (Boban, 2018). At the time, most cable television networks devoted time to the public opinions and speculations of people about the case. Millions of people followed the proceedings of the trial throughout the day with the main figures of the case becoming instant celebrities.

Information that Changed the Case.

Simpson’s defense was mainly founded on grounds that most of the police officers in the Loss Angeles police department were being racist and that the glove presented as evidence was too small to fit Simpson’s arm. This is after Simpson tried to fit the glove in the courtroom during the trial. Mark Fuhrman, the detective said to have discovered the bloody leather in the scene of the murder was particularly deemed racist. The prosecution on the other hand built their case on grounds that domestic violence had ensued after the couple had divorced which they pointed to as the motive of the murder. Worth noting, OJ Simpson was represented by a team of attorneys called the dream team that included Robert Blasier, Lee Bailey, Robert Shapiro, Shawn Holley, and Allan Dershowitz. The defense team initially alleged that three exhibits were planted by the police who had the intention of framing him. However, in an eventful twist, it was argued that all blood evidence was planted by racist police officers. Six individuals were accused of participating in a scheme to frame Simpson including Mark Fuhrman, Thano Peratis (prison nurse), Dennis Fung(criminalist), Colin Yamauchi, Phillip Vannater (detective), and Andrea Mazzola. In the closing remarks, the defense referred to Vannater and Fuhrman as ‘twins of deception’ and called upon the jury to remember Fuhrman as ‘ the man that discovered the glove and Vannater as the “man who planted the blood evidence’. The bloody glove was the last exhibit that was discovered at the scene. Unlike back gate and the sock, the prosecution provided no eyewitness or physical evidence to support their claims. Defense attorney Lee Bailey suggested that Fuhrman collected the glove at the murder scene, picked it with a stick, and placed it in a stored it in a plastic bag which he hid in his socks when he drove to the condominium in the company of Detective Phillips, Lange, and Vannater. Fuhrman would later plant the glove at the scene his motive being racism or wanting to come out as the hero in this high-profile case. Although the prosecution denied this, Simpson was granted a not-guilty verdict.

Conclusion.

The high-profile and highly controversial murder trial of OJ Simpson hit the media in October 1994. The renowned pro-footballer was accused of murdering his estranged ex-wife Nicole Brown and her friend Ron Goldman who were found gruesomely murdered on 12th June 1994 in Simpson’s condominium. Simpson was later acquitted of the two murders after 252 days of trial. Four months later, the jury found Simpson responsible for the death of the two victims in a civil trial awarding their families $33.5 million in damages. The bloody glove and conspiracy allegations against OJ Simpson completely changed the outcome of the case in which the jury found Simpson not guilty of both murders.

References

Boban, M. (2018). Race Issues in the OJ Simpson Case–Analysis of Alexander and Karaszewski’s American Crime Story (Doctoral dissertation, University of Zadar. Department of English.).

Sayers, H. (2020). If the Suit Doesn’t Fit: Marcia Clark and the OJ Simpson Trial. Women Leading Change: Case Studies on Women, Gender, and Feminism, 5(1), 48-59.

The Stage Management Handbook

Students Name

Institution of Affiliation

Course Title

Date

The Stage Management Handbook

Chapter 8 Outline – Technical and Dress Rehearsals

Moving into the theater – Before any technical rehearsal, consult with the appropriate production stuff to establish the organization of the backstage space. The placement of equipment determines the onstage and offstage placement of properties, furniture, and set pieces. The Backstage equipment must be specified and put in place to ensure the efficient operation of the show during technical rehearsals and performance.   

Storage of furniture and set pieces – It is good to ensure storage that allows no obstruction to entrances and exits in setting the stage. Establish crossovers around the set and ensure that they are clear of impediments.

Property tables – Should be located offstage as needed and ideally in locations that stimulate their positions in the rehearsal room. They should be covered with kraft or butcher paper and labeled for each item to be stored.

Flashlights – Flashlights are used as signaling devices and also in the production of light.

Communication – Communication needs vary from production to production, but the equipment is generally the same and thus should be installed and checked out prior to technical rehearsals. The basics of the audio communication system include the stage monitor, intercom, page system, and house address system.

Performance Checklist – Organization is the key to the managing of stage performance, which is potentially chaotic and overwhelming. It helps in breaking the list into components of the production and then within each area focus on the individual items that should be inspected, tested, or need to be put in place.

The set – Should be inspected thoroughly to ensure that it is in the proper position and secure.

Masking – Must be positioned correctly to ensure non-interference with the actors, scene shifts, lights, and sounds. Ensure the masking is dressed neatly, positioned at the proper trim height, covers sightlines and is in safe operational condition.  

Props and furniture – Inspection should ensure proper positioning, good repair, and operational, and also whether it looks the way it is supposed to look like.

Costumes and makeups – A complete list of costumes, accessories, and makeup items for each actor should be posted in the dressing rooms.  

Lights – The lighting design in the production requires the intimate participation of the stage most for most of its execution.  

Sound – The checklist should include a test of every speaker, microphone, and playback device that are used for the production.

Special effects – Checklist should include the special effects entries with the appropriate department.

Emergency equipment – First aid kits, fire extinguishers, and other emergency equipment should be inspected on a regular basis and should be positioned in their designed locations, well-stocked, and clearly labelled for proper use.

Dressing rooms and support facilities – Make sure that dressing rooms and lavatories have been cleaned and stocked with adequate supplies, also take note of any burned-out lights and any mechanical or plumbing problems that requires reporting.

Front of house and facilities – The various items to check include an audience seating area, auditorium lighting, aisles, and aisle lights, emergency exits and the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning to ensure that everything is in order.

The actors’ arrival – Before the initial rehearsal on stage theater, the actors need to be toured of the space and a rundown on how the place works. Dressing room assignments should be posted on the company’s call-board in advance of the actors’ arrival.   

Running the rehearsal – Before running the show, ensure everything is in order with all the technical elements being in their respective places.

The calls – Allow enough time for the crew to prepare for the rehearsals adequately to prevent waiting. Ensure that all equipment problems are solved prior to the rehearsals and ensure that the actors are given a half-hour call.   

The run-through – Work hard to ensure keeping attention to everyone as well as the rehearsal on track. Posting a running order that includes a list of the scenes of the play in playing order and a very brief description of the scene will help in ensuring a smooth run-through.

A Review of Literature on the Effects of Using Repeated Reading to Aid Comprehension and Fluency with Learning Disabled Stude

A Review of Literature on the Effects of Using Repeated Reading to Aid Comprehension and Fluency with Learning Disabled Students

Name

Institution

Table of Contents

TOC o “1-3” h z u HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716246″CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION PAGEREF _Toc398716246 h 2

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716247″1.0 Background Information PAGEREF _Toc398716247 h 2

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716248″1.1 Problem Statement PAGEREF _Toc398716248 h 2

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716249″1.2 Purpose of the Study PAGEREF _Toc398716249 h 3

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716250″1.3 Conceptual Framework PAGEREF _Toc398716250 h 3

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716251″1.4 Significance of the Study PAGEREF _Toc398716251 h 4

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716252″1.6 Assumptions PAGEREF _Toc398716252 h 5

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716253″1.7 Outline of the Paper PAGEREF _Toc398716253 h 5

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716254″CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW PAGEREF _Toc398716254 h 7

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716255″2.0 Reading Research: Historical Overview PAGEREF _Toc398716255 h 7

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716256″2.1 Fluency and Reading PAGEREF _Toc398716256 h 8

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716257″2.2 Repeated Readings and its Impacts on Fluency and Comprehension Skills PAGEREF _Toc398716257 h 9

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716258″2.3 Repeated Readings and Fluency among Students with Learning Difficulties PAGEREF _Toc398716258 h 11

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716259″CHAPTER 3: DISCUSSIONS AND CONCLUSIONS PAGEREF _Toc398716259 h 13

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716260″3.1 Discussions PAGEREF _Toc398716260 h 13

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716261″3.2 Implications for Teachers PAGEREF _Toc398716261 h 15

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716262″3.3 Conclusion PAGEREF _Toc398716262 h 16

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716263″3.4 Implications for Future Research PAGEREF _Toc398716263 h 17

HYPERLINK l “_Toc398716264″References PAGEREF _Toc398716264 h 18

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION1.0 Background Information

According to the data from National Centre for Education Statistics (2009), almost half of the country’s 1st to 8th-grade students have a problem with reading fluency. This data also indicate sustained levels of reading difficulties in the country for the past 10 years. This has propagated increased research on reading achievement by educationalists (NCES, 2009). However, the legislation of the No Child Left Behind legislation on 2002 has forced instructors and leaders in education to revise their strategies to meet this need (NCLB, 2002). According to Calhoon (2005), academic success, independence, and employability of an individual are founded on the ability to master the reading skills. Illiteracy is known to prevent an individual from being productive in a society (Kim, 2008). Due to this challenge, researchers have in the recent past focused on developing the most appropriate approach to teaching learners how to read (Cassidy et al., 2010). Well-educated citizens that are literate are better placed to positively contribute to the advancement of a society through evaluating data, making informed decisions, effectively solving problems, and improving the quality of their lives as well as that of others of others in a society. This places emphasis on the imperativeness of reading skills in the society

1.1 Problem StatementAs much as teaching learners how to read is considered as among the main aims of education, numerous students are found to have difficulty in learning even the basic reading skills. Studies indicate that 20 percent of students suffer significant difficulties in acquiring reading skills (NCES, 2009). Furthermore, over a third of students in fourth-grade level have poor basic reading skills. The situation is further compounded for students with special learning needs, as they are found to struggle with reading difficulty in educational life as well as adult life (Calhoon, 2005). The sustained prevalence of students with reading difficulties has forced educationalists to reexamine the approaches to teaching reading skills in schools. A report from the national reading panel published in 2001 identified reading fluency, text comprehension strategies, vocabulary instructions, phonics, and phonemic awareness as essential reading skills (NICHHD, 2000). This paper presents a critical analysis the concept of repeated reading and its effectiveness in promoting comprehension and fluency reading skills among students with learning disabilities

1.2 Purpose of the StudyThis paper purposed to scrutinize whether repeated reading approach had an effect on the general reading capabilities and attitudes among school going children. Recent studies on this issue have emphasized on the need of implementing research findings into the instructional process as a way of positively influencing the reading skills of learners (Brown, 2011).This paper presents an analysis the effectiveness of repeated reading strategy in enhancing reading skills among learners based on existing studies on the issue

1.3 Conceptual Framework

The importance of reading fluency in education emerged in the late 1960s (Brown, 2011). This was built on two theoretical constructs that have been greatly cited by various authors on this issue. Specifically, reading fluency problems are believed to originate from poor decoding skills by the readers (Brown, 2011; Guthrie et al., 2004). The existence of slowed down decoding skills results in formation of a bottleneck that obstructs the thought flow ultimately inhibiting comprehension (Brown, 2011; Cassidy et al., 2010) Learners with poor reading skills spend most of their cognitive capabilities on decoding limiting their comprehension capabilities (Cassidy et al., 2010). Effortless readers, on the other hand, are able to decode words speedily with accuracy allowing them to have enough capabilities for comprehension (Lo et al., 2011).

On the contrary, another theory on reading asserts that the difficulty to read fluently originates from the lack of prosodic cues in written language (Francis et al., 2005). This position is defended by the argument that some readers are incapable of conveying from oral language, where prosodic markers are precise to written language, and the learner must infer the markers (Therrien & Hughes, 2008). Learners that are unable to come up with suitable prosodic markers are not in a position to separate sentences into meaningful expressions and thus face difficulties in comprehending written text even if they are able to effectively decode individual words (Morgan & Sideridis, 2006). This position is backed by various authors who argue that text-reading process is complex and requires assimilation of all levels of processing as from the initial decoding of individual words to acquisition of the denotation of the sentence, paragraph, and the whole information in general (Morgan & Sideridis, 2006; Therrien, 2004; Neumann et al., 2008).

1.4 Significance of the StudyThe study contributes to educational practice and theory on teaching learners how to read. From a theoretical perspective, the study offers various contributions to existing positions on approaches to teaching students how to read. Concerning repeated reading strategy, the study provides insight into how repeated reading is perceived by various authors in terms of its effectiveness in promoting student reading capabilities. The study indicates the existence of differentiation in students with the learning disorder in terms of their reading capability due to adherence and non-adherence to repeated reading strategy (O’ Connor et al., 2007).

These results of this research study are also relevant to practical teaching practice as they show student variations in reading capacity. Consequently, teachers will have evidence required for designing and implementing differentiated programs aimed at improving reading skills among learners. Particularly, this will assist education leadership and teachers to design effective teaching programs that recognize the differences in how learners acquire reading skills with a focus on the use of repeated reading strategy in the management of reading deficiency among students with learning disabilities

1.6 AssumptionsThis research paper is based on specific assumptions that are delineated below:

The data collected by existing studies was adequate in terms of covering all the variables that were under investigation in this study

The existing studies provided truthful information regarding the issues under analysis

1.7 Outline of the Paper

The introductory chapter has background information, the research problem, Conceptual framework, and the contributions of the study. The second chapter provided a comprehensive review of the literature on reading difficulties among learners with a specific focus on the role of repeated rereading strategy in the management of reading difficulties. In the third chapter, the discussion, implications, conclusions, and recommendations on the issue with a specific focus on the information in literature review was developed

CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW

2.0 Reading Research: Historical Overview

The methodology of teaching was blamed for ineffectiveness in the development of reading skills among learners as early as 1955 (Brown, 2011). A study by Chall (1967) examined whether children are able to develop reading skills well if the teaching methodology emphasized on phonics code or an approach centered on stressing the meaning. Findings of this study indicated that emphasis on phonics code had better results that comprehension and word recognition. Goodman (1965), disproof disapproved this position by arguing that children have different approaches in the identification of words including context clues and background knowledge. A study by Brown (2011) affirmed that reading out the whole word enhanced the reading abilities among learners. However, Goodman was against the approach that focused on teaching word recognition in isolation. This resulted to the development of psycholinguistic theory of reading that resulted to increased interest in research on how learners mind behave when occupied in reading (Kim, 2008).

The position adopted by Goodman was influential on the studies on reading behaviors among students (Brown, 2011). In the 1979s and 1980s, reading research was dominated by cognivitism with the focus on the eye movement during reading as well as the effect of context on the reading process (Brown, 2011). In the 1990s, more studies on reading were develop emphasizing on the processes and practices of teaching and learning how to reading (Brown, 2011). A study by Adams (1990) came up with an integrated approach to teaching how to read that combined systematic coding and meaningful reading in the teaching process.

Currently, the national reading panel (NRP) is the main source of instructional approaches for teaching learners how to read ((NICHHD, 2000). This approach recommends the use of several teaching approaches that amalgamates into a well-balanced literacy program. Specifically these approaches target the five pillars of reading, namely vocabulary, comprehension, fluency, phonics, and phonemic awareness as being the vital aspects of reading instruction (Cassidy et al., 2010).

2.1 Fluency and ReadingThe NRP has been at the center on the development of fluency as an essential reading skill. There exist innumerable studies that have analyzed the concept of fluency and its application to the learning process (Hudson et al., 2005; O’ Connor et al., 2007). However, its definition in the context of reading is varies from one researcher to another. Specifically, some studies define fluency based on speed and accuracy, while others identify prosody and comprehension as major attributes of fluency (Brown, 2011). Fluency can be defined as the capability of a learner to read with accuracy, speed, and expression (Armbruster et al., 2003). It can also be defined as an accurate approach to reading of information as a conversation with fitting prosody (Hudson et al., 2005)

The National Reading Panel identified high levels of fluency neglect in most schools in the United States (NCES, 2009). NRP went further and proposed two instructional strategies targeting promotion of reading fluency among learners. These strategies included the independent silent reading strategy and the guided repeated oral reading (Kim, 2008). The common agreement among researchers that fluency is developed through reading has resulted to increased adoption of the NRP strategies in a classroom environment. Specifically, studies have shown that guided oral reading has a positive impact on comprehension, word recognition, and fluency (Kim, 2008; Cassidy et al., 2010). However, the existence of numerous approaches for implementing the repeated reading approach demanded research into the most effective approach for promoting fluency and comprehension

2.2 Repeated Readings and its Impacts on Fluency and Comprehension SkillsSeveral research studies have been conducted on repeated readings dating back to as early as 1979, which iterated that repeated reading is founded on repetitive practice of the text (Samuels, 1979; Dahl, 1979). Kuhn and Stahl (2003) conducted a review of various studies on the impact of repeated reading on fluency. The findings indicated that most studies found a significant impact while others had null impact, and some showed the impact was limited to the repeated text only and not transferable to other texts. The position adopted in these studies was explained that the studies that found null impact did not meet the minimum number of times for defining repetitive reading, which were placed at five times by Dahl and Samuel.

Another study by O’Connor et al. (2007) examined the impact of complexity of the reading material and found out that using material that was relevant to the instructional level of the learner greatly influenced the fluency gains. Repeated reading among learners has been found to result to better work accuracy and comprehension (Hudson et al., 2005). Therefore, as learners repeat reading a text, they learn new sight words, which they then apply in new texts (Neumann et al., 2008). Most studies that have reported insignificant or no improvement in comprehension skills had no effective baseline for developing the measure. Therrien (2004) suggests that the students under study many not have fluency problems making it hard to detect improvement in comprehension skills.

As much as repeated reading is generally known to positively impact on fluency, its impact on comprehension skills is not always guaranteed (Morgan & Sideridis, 2006). Various studies on comprehension skills have provided varied findings. Some studies show a general trend in the increase of fluency and comprehension skills simultaneously (Kuhn & Stahl, 2003). Other studies affirm that repeated reading enhances fluency but does not always result to the development of better comprehension skills (Therrien, 2004). Another suggestion for this anomaly is the possibility of students reading a text that is inappropriate to their level. A study by Therrien & Hughes (2008) identifies shortage of higher order thinking skills such as supervision of the text as contributory to inability of repetitive reading to result to better comprehension skills.

Furthermore, the approaches adopted in measuring comprehension in repetitive reading studies are also varied. Learners that are reading a text learn facts from the information and, therefore, repeated reading is supposed to generally show improved comprehension skills when measured as learners are able to clearly identify the answer they are being comprehended on in the text. However, many studies use literal knowledge to test comprehension skills that demand a learner to integrate previous knowledge and the information in the text (Therrien & Hughes, 2008). The fact that repeated reading strategies do not emphasize on inferential comprehension, such tests are likely to present a negative outcome of repeated reading on comprehension skills. Moreover, many studies on repeated reading present data for both literal and inferential questioning as a single score. This atonality limits the ability of testing the gains in comprehension skills (Bryant et al., 2000). This position is further illustrated by Freeland et al. (2000) who pointed out that repeated reading has a positive impact on the learners’ literal comprehension skills but has null impact on inferential comprehension skills. Therefore, the use of text comprehensions strategies that combines both literal and inferential comprehension is necessary for improving the reading achievement.

2.3 Repeated Readings and Fluency among Students with Learning DifficultiesThe effectiveness of repeated reading in enhancing fluency and comprehension skills among students with learning disabilities has not been fully studies to affirm the status of evidence-based justification (Chard et al., 2009). This position was adopted by Chard et al. (2009) after conducting an analysis of existing studies and concluded that the studies were not empirical in nature. However, this position was adopted devoid of studies that more than one additional instructional components such as comprehension and development of vocabulary. However, the fact that most studies have documented that repeated readings promote oral fluency, a blended approach with several instructional components is bound to enhance the effectiveness. Several studies have analyzed students with learning disabilities and identified deficits in skills such a comprehension, fluency, word recognition, and motivation (Francis et al., 2005; Guthrie et al., 2004). Since all these skills are directly attributed to the development of comprehension capabilities, the use of reading instructions that combine all these components offers better outcomes (Guthrie & Wigfield, 2005). For instance, an approach that combined readings and question generation developed by Wickstrom & Jones (2006) was effective in promoting fluency and comprehension skills among learners with learning disabilities.

A more recent look into this issue was by Lo et al. (2011), was based on a study that contained an adult-directed reading meditation. The study found out that direct involvement of an adult in the repeated reading process hastened the rate of acquisition of the reading skills. In general, repeated reading has been found to positively impact on the reading skills among learners with learning disabilities (Therrien, 2004). In his study, Therrien (2004) concluded that adult implementation, cueing, a minimum of four times of text repetition, corrective feedback and performance criterion are vital components of an effective instructional strategy targeting enhancement of reading skills among students with learning disabilities.

CHAPTER 3: DISCUSSIONS AND CONCLUSIONS3.1 DiscussionsFrom the above literature review, it is evident that learners that have poor literacy skills require data based intervention to enable them improve in their reading skills. Many of the studies analyzed have indicated that repeated reading is a powerful tool that can help in the enhancement of fluency and comprehension skills among learners (Hudson et al., 2005; Cassidy et al., 2010; Lo et al., 2011). Repeated reading has been shown to positively influence reading achievement as well as attitudes among learners (Lo et al., 2011; Calhoon, 2005). However, when implementing the reading training among learners, teachers should consider motivational factors, the needs of the learners, materials that relay the content to the learners in an appropriate manner, instructional approaches that have scientific backing and engage the learner, and the specific skills needed by the learner to become a proficient reader (NCES, 2009; Brown, 2011; Kim, 2008).

Based on the literature reviewed above, repeated readings that considered content based literacy proved effective in addressing the reading problems among learners. More so, the studies conducted a measure of repeated readings based on performance assessments that clearly indicated that repeated readings positively enhance fluency and comprehension skills (Kuhn & Stahl, 2003). This is evidenced by the position taken by Therrien (2004) that validated previous studies that had asserted that repeated reading is effective for promoting development of fluency and comprehension skills among learners. The analysis drawn from various studies clearly indicated that repeated reading has a positive impact on student’s word efficiency, sight word, and reading comprehension, as well as general improvement in literacy (Kuhn & Stahl, 2003; O’ Connor et al., 2007; Neumann et al., 2008). Specifically, studies on the impact of repeated reading for learners with learning disabilities showed that if well used with several approaches, repeated reading can effectively promote literacy in such students (Calhoon, 2005; Morgan & Sideridis, 2006). This is a clear indication that repeated reading has the potential of promoting development of fluency and comprehension skills among learners with learning disabilities. The fact reading is a cornerstone in the learning process, considerations of implementing repeated reading strategy in learning institution targeting students with learning difficulties is essential in the elimination of reading and comprehension gaps between the normal learners and the learners with learning difficulties.

Consequently, repeated reading is an effective tool for improvement of fluency and comprehension skills among disabled as well as non-disabled learners in terms of learning difficulties. The use of sources that utilized both transfer and non-transfer measures allowed this investigation to develop a deeper analysis of the concept of repeated reading and its impact on learner’s literacy (Morgan & Sideridis, 2006). The analysis of studies founded on non-transfer perspective that measured the ability of a student to fluently read a specific text after repeated reading indicated that repeated reading is effective for promoting fluency and comprehension skills for a specific text (Therrien & Hughes, 2008). Therefore, students that are exposed to reading a passage more than once generally read it more fluently and offer better comprehension of the passage. On the other hand, transfer results that examined the student’s ability to read fluently and comprehend another text after reading a different text repeatedly indicated that students that are exposed to repeated readings of a specific text are better placed in terms of fluency and comprehensions skills when reading a different text (Chard et al., 2009). As a result, repeated reading has the capability of improving learners’ comprehension and fluency abilities when exposed to new reading materials.

The review of literature also offered insights into the instructional components for promoting repeated reading among learners. The most evident approach that was considered essential in most studies is the approach that demanded learners to read the text loudly to the teacher (Chard et al., 2009; Francis et al., 2005; Guthrie et al., 2004). This position was founded adult implemented approach to repeated reading as studies demonstrated that instances where a teacher was actively involved in the repeated reading process produced better results compared to instances where the learners were exposed to repeated reading individually (Guthrie et al., 2004). Another important finding on repeated reading from the review of the literature was provision of a cue and repetition process being more than four times. Specifically, the cue to be provided was a challenging issue as studies were divided between using speed and comprehension or fluency, or comprehension (Lo et al., 2011; Cassidy et al., 2010). However, from the studies, there was negligible impact on fluency and comprehension skills when the cueing approach was changed and therefore provided cuing is part of the repeated reading instructions, then it is bound to work effectively in promoting literacy. For the learners with learning disabilities, cueing approach that considered comprehension has better results in terms of memory as compared to speed cuing. Nevertheless, since several studies suggested that an integrated approach has better results, this study proposed that the most effective approach for cuing should combine both comprehension and speed cuing (Cassidy et al., 2010; Kim, 2008; NCES, 2009).

3.2 Implications for TeachersThis research developed two major findings that have implications for the teacher-learner environments regarding reading skills. To begin with, studies have shown that repeated reading can be used as an instructional approach for improving learners’ fluency and comprehension of text. The second finding is that there are specific instructional components that are needed to ensure repeated reading strategy is beneficial as a tool for promoting literacy among learners. Specifically, the choice of instructional components is dependent on the objective of the intervention. If repeated reading targets improvement of students’ fluency and comprehension skills for a specific text, the approach should cue students with a focus on comprehension and speed, and the text should be loudly read by the learners more than three times. However, if the intention of repeated reading targets the overall literacy of the learners, then the essential components of the instruction process should include reading the passage loudly to an adult instructor, the instructor should provide corrective feedback on specific words in the text. Additionally, the student must read the text many times until the set performance standards are met.

3.3 ConclusionUsing the literature review, this study has been able to offer a better understanding of the current position regarding repeated reading and its impact on the improvement of fluency and comprehension skills among learners with learning disabilities. Specifically, the study has pointed out that the impacts of repeated reading in the development of reading skills is positive for students with learning difficulties as well as those without learning difficulties. Moreover, it was evident that the approach adopted in offering repeated reading instructions is controlled by the objectives of the process with a specific focus on nontransferable and transferable fluency and comprehension skills. The fact that effective literacy is founded on transferable reading skills where a student is able to apply fluency and comprehension skills read in a text to another different text, the focus on developing instructional approaches that promoted development of transferable reading skills was viewed as imperative in educational development.

3.4 Implications for Future ResearchAs much as this study proved that repeated reading has a positive impact on fluency and comprehension skills among learners, there are several critical queries that were not well responded to in the reviewed studies. The most burning issue relates to the approach for increasing instructional components, using a modeling component, the role of peers in promoting repeated reading effectiveness, and the most effective approach for measuring the overall impact for repeated reading on literacy achievement. This study has identified the vital instructional components of repeated reading but the lack of analysis on the impact of additional instructional components limited the ability of this investigation in pointing out how they may influence development of literacy skills. Thus, developing a better understanding of the effect of repeated reading in promoting literacy among learners with learning difficulties, long-term studies are necessary. The lack studies that have focused on this group of learners for more than 6 months makes the existing data limited in terms of affirming the importance of repeated learning and developing the most appropriate instructional approach targeting learners with learning difficulties is challenging. Specifically, developing a quasi-experiment approach may provide deeper insights into this issues and their impact on repeated reading as a reading skill development strategy.

ReferencesAdams, M. J. (1990). Beginning to read: Thinking and learning about print (A summary). Cambridge, Massachusetts: MIT Press.

Armbruster, B. B., Lehr, F., & Osborn, J. (2003). Putting reading first: The research building blocks for teaching children to read. Kindergarten through grade 3 (2nd ed.). Washington D.C.: National Institute for Literacy.

Bryant, D. P., Vaughn, S., Linan-Thompson, S., Ugel, N., Hamff, A., & Hougen, M. (2000). Reading outcomes for students with and without reading disabilities in general education middle-school content area classes. Learning Disability Quarterly, 23, 238-252.

Brown, Elizabeth. (2011). History of reading instruction. Retrieved from HYPERLINK “http://www.thephonicspage.org/On%20Phonics/historyofreading.html”http://www.thephonicspage.org/On%20Phonics/historyofreading.html.

Calhoon, M.B. (2005). Effects of a peer-mediated phonological skill and reading comprehension program on reading skill acquisition for middle school students with reading disabilities. Journal of Learning Disabilities, 5, 424-433.

Chall, J. S. (1967). Learning to read: The great debate. NewYork: McGraw-Hill.

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