Free Essays on Albrecht Durer

Albrecht Durer is known as the greatest German artist of the Renaissance. Durer was born in 1471 in Nuernberg, Germany. His parents were Hungarian emigrants who came to Germany in search of a better life. Durer began his career in Nuernberg, Germany with his father. His father was a Hungarian goldsmith who emigrated to Germany in 1455. Despite his father being a goldsmith, Durer began painting at the age of 14 in 1484. Durer soon became an apprentice in 1486 to a printmaker named Michel Wolgumut. Wolgumut taught Durer how to work with woodcuts and how to engrave into copper. Beginning in 1490 Durer traveled widely for study, including trips to Italy in 1494 and 1505-7 and to Antwerp and the Low Countries in 1520-1. During his visit to Venice on his second Italian trip Durer was especially influenced by Giovanni Bellini and Bellini's brother-in-law Andrea Mantegna. The period between his Italian trips was one of great productivity and artistic growth, characterized by his publication, 1496-8, of a portfolio of woodcuts, The Apocalypse of St. John. Scholars have suggested that the portfolio may have been intended as a veiled expression of support for the Reformation, with Babylon used as a surrogate for Rome. Beginning at least as early as 1512, Durer became portraitist to the rich and famous of his time, including Emperor Maximilian I and Christian II of Denmark. Other sitters included Jacob Fugger and other prominent merchants, clergy and government officials. He soon returned to Nuernberg, Germany where he died on April 6, 1528. Durer is considered by many as one of the best Renaissance artist of his time. His work can still be seen today hanging in some of the most famous museums in the entire world.... Free Essays on Albrecht Durer Free Essays on Albrecht Durer One artist that sits on a higher pedestal than many is Albrecht Durer. Recognized as the most famous artist of the Reformation period, he was brilliantly talented in many areas, Watercolor, Woodcuts and engraving to name a few. Albrecht Durer’s contribution to the Art world intrigues and fascinates us until this day. Durer was born in 1471 in Nuremburg, Germany. His father was a respected goldsmith and filled the office of â€Å"official assayer of precious metals†. (Hutchison 20) Recognized for his honesty and reputation he received many prestigious commendations. Durer the Elder, the skillful goldsmith, can be considered Durer’s first art instructor. At the young age of ten Durer the Elder taught his son the goldsmith’s technique. Many believed that the skillful handling of the engraver’s burin (a pointed steel cutting tool used by engravers) was the origin for his distinctive style, which rendered him a gifted artist with an eye for detail. The creation of Durer’s renowned self-portrait, developed while looking into a mirror at the young age of thirteen, was his first known contribution to the art world. Because of the portrait, his father recognized his young son’s natural ability for drawing. The portrait created in the Silverpoint technique, which reached its peak during the Renaissance period. This technique requires a soft, meticulous touch that generates a drawing with extremely fine lines. With the creation of a Silverpoint, a stylus with a metal form wire of, silver, copper, bronze or gold on a prepared â€Å"ground† surface is required. During the 15th century, the â€Å"ground† most likely consisted of white lead, ground bone combined with a glue size and tinted with pigment. The minute deposit of metal left on the â€Å"ground† produces a fine gray line by means of a chemical reaction on the primed surface. After oxidation, the resulting characteristic is a soft brown shade visible in the fine lines,... Free Essays on Albrecht Durer Albrecht Durer is known as the greatest German artist of the Renaissance. Durer was born in 1471 in Nuernberg, Germany. His parents were Hungarian emigrants who came to Germany in search of a better life. Durer began his career in Nuernberg, Germany with his father. His father was a Hungarian goldsmith who emigrated to Germany in 1455. Despite his father being a goldsmith, Durer began painting at the age of 14 in 1484. Durer soon became an apprentice in 1486 to a printmaker named Michel Wolgumut. Wolgumut taught Durer how to work with woodcuts and how to engrave into copper. Beginning in 1490 Durer traveled widely for study, including trips to Italy in 1494 and 1505-7 and to Antwerp and the Low Countries in 1520-1. During his visit to Venice on his second Italian trip Durer was especially influenced by Giovanni Bellini and Bellini's brother-in-law Andrea Mantegna. The period between his Italian trips was one of great productivity and artistic growth, characterized by his publication, 1496-8, of a portfolio of woodcuts, The Apocalypse of St. John. Scholars have suggested that the portfolio may have been intended as a veiled expression of support for the Reformation, with Babylon used as a surrogate for Rome. Beginning at least as early as 1512, Durer became portraitist to the rich and famous of his time, including Emperor Maximilian I and Christian II of Denmark. Other sitters included Jacob Fugger and other prominent merchants, clergy and government officials. He soon returned to Nuernberg, Germany where he died on April 6, 1528. Durer is considered by many as one of the best Renaissance artist of his time. His work can still be seen today hanging in some of the most famous museums in the entire world....

Dr. Alex Shigo Biography - Arboriculture

Dr. Alex Shigo Biography - Arboriculture Dr. Alex Shigo was widely considered the father of modern arboriculture and a university trained tree pathologist. Dr. Shigos study of tree biology led to a broadened understanding of compartmentalization of decay in trees. Shigos ideas eventually led to many changes and additions to commercial tree care practices and the now accepted way to prune a tree. Full Name:Â   Dr. Alex Shigo Date of Birth:Â   May 8, 1930 Place of Birth:Â   Duquesne, Pennsylvania Education: Shigo received a bachelors of science degree from Waynesburg College near Duquesne, Pennsylvania. After serving in the U.S. Air Force, Shigo continued his study of botany, biology, and genetics under his former biology professor, Dr. Charles Bryner. Shigo moved from Duquesne and continued his education at the University of West Virginia, where he received a combination Masters / Ph.D. in pathology in 1959. U.S. Forest Service Career: Dr. Shigo started a career with the United States Forest Service in 1958. His earliest assignment was to learn more about tree decay. Shigo used a newly invented one-man chainsaw to open trees in a way no one else had, by making longitudinal cuts along the stem rather than transverse cuts across the stem.His tree autopsy technique led to many important discoveries, some of which were and are controversial. Shigo believed that trees are not made up of mostly dead wood but have the ability to contain disease by creating compartments. Shigo became Chief Scientist for the Forest Service and retired in 1985. Date of Death:Â   Dr. Alex Shigo, 86, died on October 6, 2006 Circumstance Surrounding Death: According to the Shigo and Trees, Associates website, Alex Shigo died on Friday, October 6. He was at his summer cottage at the lake {Barrington, New Hampshire}, going to his office after dinner when he fell going down the steps, landing on the patio, and died from a broken neck. CODIT: Shigo found that trees respond to injuries by sealing the wounded area through the process of compartmentalization. This theory of compartmentalization of decay in trees, or CODIT, was Shigos biological brainstorm, leading to many changes and adaptations in the tree care industry. Instead of healing like our skin, an injury to a tree trunk results in surrounding cells changing themselves chemically and physically to prevent the spread of decay. New cells are produced by cells lining the cut area to cover and seal the injured area. Instead of trees healing, trees actually seal. The Controversy: Dr. Shigos biological findings are not always popular with arborists. Shigo disputed the validity of many techniques that the arboricultural industry has used for over a century. His work proved that old techniques were shown to be unnecessary or, even worst, harmful. In Alex Shigos defense, his conclusions have been confirmed by other researchers and are now a part of current ANSI standards for tree pruning. Bad news is, many commercial arborists continue to perform flush cuts, toppings, and other practices that Dr. Shigos research shows to be harmful. In many cases, arborists perform these practices knowing they are harmful, but believing their business cannot survive by practicing their craft under Shigo guidelines.

Hazardous waste management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

Hazardous waste management - Essay Example This method focuses on asbestos management, and its use has become international right from Poland. The solution is based on reactor construction, which allows hazardous wastes to be utilized and subsequently managed. Essentially, this can be done in varying temperatures and notably extreme temperatures. The natural environment remains protected from unmanaged hazardous wastes. Alongside hazardous waste utilization, the MTT method of hazardous waste management allows valuable materials to be recovered (ATON-HT, 2013). This technological realization has enhanced the effectiveness and efficiency of waste management processes. Its primary focus on asbestos management covers a wide area of hazardous wastes. In the light of this and even more technological innovations relative to waste management, the underlying gap in handling of hazardous wastes seems to be shrinking. With MTT in place, polluted asbestos waste can still be utilized. Toxic substances that render asbestos waste hazardous can be contained through the MTT technology. ATON-HT. (2013). Hazardous waste management technology - MTT method (Microwave Thermal Treatment). Retrieved on March 17, 2013, from:

Keys of Spirituality Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Keys of Spirituality - Essay Example Ecclesiology is basically the science of these practices and beliefs. As in the case of Christianity, practices and beliefs in conjugation with different rituals give rise to the valued ecclesial heritage of the Christians (Rolheiser 1999). With the lapse of time, contacts between peoples across the continents increased. And in the last century we have seen people to people contacts have increased almost exponentially. This has resulted into cultural assimilation as well as cultural skirmishes (Woo 2009). Consequently, ecclesial praxis has emerged. Now under the realm of greater spirituality, the specific ecclesial issues are more significant than ever. How should a Christian behave in Europe? And how should he or she behave in India? What should a Christian do when America’s federal government wishes to include sex education even in most conservative educational institutions? How should Christians adjust with their non Christian neighbors? These are few of the questions which are directly related to the ecclesial dimensions of Christian spirituality. In a more heterogeneous and cosmopolitan world, Christian beliefs, practices, and rituals should be made more contemporary with the help of a proper understanding of our ecclesiological heritage. Spirituality of Paschal Mystery Paschal mystery is perhaps one of the most essential components of Christian spirituality. In the sphere of complex modern civilization, it appears to be a real mysterious concern that how the pious nuns and monks remain aloft from worldly sins and prejudices. Ardent followers of Christ, as mentioned in the Christian texts, managed to maintain similar or greater moral values and God fearing characteristics in life. Paschal mystery is thus the branch of theology and spirituality that distinguishes between a common church and a holy pilgrimage. The priests and bishops are classically entrusted with this responsibility. Religious leaders must find out which places have special relevance in religious philosophy and how common people can be benefited by building shrines and monasteries. Paschal mystery opens up the doors for the common people to reach out and live up to the expectations of angels and divine beings. In this way, even a most common man might be able to enter into some kind of dialogue with God during pilgrimage (Rolheiser 1999). Spirituality of Justice and Peacemaking Humans are social creatures, and they have established civilizations and complex systems with their power of invention and intellectual ability. Therefore, we must understand our social systems in an intelligent and intellectual manner. Justice and peacemaking is a prime socio-behaviorist concept derived directly from the Gospel and the New Testament. In this specific realm of spirituality, the common people are taught to remain pious and good towards each other. Spirituality of justice and peacemaking eventually drives us toward intellectual maturity. We are then able to forgive and lov e even the fiercest of our enemies. Rolheiser (1999, p. 188-189) writes, â€Å"In the world’s schema of things, survival of the fittest is the rule. In God’s schema, survival of the weakest is the rule.† This is how the concept of justice and peacemaking has been laid down in Christianity. In this way, being God fearing and religious means that the true Christian will exhibit spiritual behavior by the means of the virtues like love, charity, forgiveness, and compassion. Spirituality of Sexuality But in the contemporary world, sex is time and again regarded as something that we must enjoy. Therefore, today in our society we have things like seductive

A History of Melody Essay Example for Free

A History of Melody Essay The violin emerged from a primitive musical bow, usually an arched stick with a string stretched taut between the two ends (Hughes, 2008). The string is divided by a loop or a bridge (Thinkquest, 1999). The first bridge was used to add to the instruments resonance when the string was vibrated, and strings were attached across suitable receptacles (Hughes, 2008). These resonance enhancers took many forms-tortoise shells, coconut, calabash, wooden boxes and even pig bladders (Thinkquest, 1999), thrust tightly between the strings and the bow (Thinkquest, 1999). Also to enhance the resonance of the bow, the instrument was held before the mouth (Thinkquest, 1999). The violin probably came to Europe around the 9th century, mostly originating from Asia (Thinkquest, 1999). It took the evolutionary process of the violin about 450 years to bring the violin to its present form. This only shows the long years of experience needed by the makers of the stringed instrument (Thinkquest, 1999). The use of a bow to draw across the strings followed, probably imported into Europe from Asia by Arab travellers (Hughes, 2008). The evolution of the violin was slow. It took until the middle Ages for a version of the zither, a popular and older instrument, to evolve into the vielle, which saw the instrument being held against the shoulder. This differentiated it from the zither, as the latter was held across the knees (Hughes, 2008). As time went on, the original one string grew to four, and for a time, five strings (Hughes, 2008). Fashionable until the 16th century, the vielle was changed with the small wooden ribs used in similar wooden plucked instruments replaced by the tailpiece and bridge (Hughes, 2008). Violin 2 By the time of the Renaissance, the viol (a bowed stringed instrument chiefly of the 16th and 17th centuries made in treble, alto, tenor, and bass sizes and distinguished from members of the violin family especially in having a deep body, a flat back, sloping shoulders, usually six strings, a fretted fingerboard, and a low-arched bridge (Merriam-Webster, 2008), was being used, the first having a hole adding resonance and tone to the instrument (Hughes, 2008). It was a short time that the viol evolved into the viola da gamba (a bass member of the viol family having a range approximating the cello (Merriam-Webster, 2008), which was played between the knees of the musician, and the viola de braccio held against the shoulder. The modern shape of the violin was evolved from the second version of the instrument (Hughes, 2008). The Violin evolved form many different instruments, including the Rebob, the Rebec, Lira da Braccio and the Renaissance fiddle. The violin today, the â€Å"new violin† was not used until 1630 in Italy (Berkeley, 2008). The evolution of the modern violin appears to have been completed in Italy with the most famous violin maker Andrea Amati at Cremona, providing 24 violins, six violas and eight cellos for the French King Charles IX in 1560 (Hughes, 2008). Another famous violin maker, Antonio Stradivarius, joined the Amati school in the latter half of the 6th century (Hughes, 2008). The violins refinery As stated earlier in the paper, that apart from the Arab travellers influence had an on the violin, there is no certain fact on who invented the violin or a stringed instrument that is played with a bow (Hughes, 2008). Some of the theories place the invention of the violin at around 1520 A. D. wherein the violin is included in the Gaudenzio Ferrari painting The Madonna of the Orange Trees (cited in Berkeley, 2008). Violin 3 But the violin emerged in Italy in the early 1500s and seems to have developed from two medieval bowed instruments-the fiddle, also called the viele or fiedel, and the rebec-and from the Renaissance lira de braccio (a violin-like instrument with off the finger drone strings (Rosenblum, 2007). Also related to the violin, but not direct ancestors, is the six-string fretted viol. The viol appeared in Europe before the violin and existed with it side by side for about 200 hundred years (Rosenblum, 2007). In the early 1600s, however, the violin gained prestige through its use in operas such as Orfeo(1607) by Italian composer Claudio Monteverdi, and through the French King Louis XIII band of musicians, the 24 violons de roi (the â€Å"Kings 24 violins†, formed in 1626). This growth in stature continued throughout the Baroque period (1600-1750) in the works of many notable composer-performers. Among them were the Italians Arcangelo Corelli, Antonio Vivaldi and Giuseppe Tartini and the Germanys Heinrich Biber, Georg Philipp Teleman and Johann Sebastian Bach (Rosenblum, 2007). The Craftsmen The earliest important violin makers were from Northern Italy, Gasparo da Salo (1540-1609) and Giovanni Maggini (1579-1630) from Brescia and Andrea Amati (1525-1611) from Cremona. The craft of violin making reached its height in the 17th and 18th centuries in the workshops of the Italians Antonio Stradivarius (1644-1737) and Giuseppe Guarneri (1698-1744) from Cremona and the Austrian Jacob Stainer (1617-1638) (Rosenblum, 2007). Violin 4 Gasparo da Salo (1542-1609) The founder of the Brescian school of violin makers, Gasparo Bertlotti, or Gasparo da Salo, was a dedicated craftsman and instrument maker. He was formerly credited with the claim of having developed the violin in the shape we know today. Although his claims have been disproved, his instruments are nevertheless admired and venerated (Smithsonian, 2008). Gasparos violas are considered finer than his violins and probably were more numerous (Smithsonian, 2008). His viola da gambas were converted to violincellos and are much esteemed, and some of his six-stringed bass viols have been remounted as three and four stringed double basses. Twenty instruments have been recorded (Smithsonian, 2008). Giovanni Paolo Maggini (1579-1630) An apprentice of Gasparo da Salo, he acquired a thorough knowledge of the woods available to him (Smithsonian, 2008). Maggini made his own mark and as a master, his own techniques of craftsmanship. He frequently experimented to improve tone quality for his pieces and perfect his construction methods (Smithsonian, 2008). Many of the instruments made by Maggini at the twilight of his career are considered his finest work. These works are known for the quality of the woods and unusually large sound holes as well as for their unusually mellow tones (Smithsonian, 2008). Andrea Amati (1525-1611) The founder of the great Cremona school of violin making, Amati focused on violins and was making viols and rebecs. Instruments dated after 1584 are said to be the works of his sons Antonio and Hieronymus (Smithsonian, 2008). Violin 5 It is claimed that he made 24 violins, 6 violas and 8 cellos for the French king Charles IX for use at the court at Versailles (Smithsonian, 2008). A few of these instruments survive to this day (Smithsonian, 2008). Antonio Stradivarius (1644-1734) Stradivarius interpretation of geometry and design served as a conceptual model for violin makers for more than 200 years (Smithsonian, 2008). Stradivarius also made harps, guitars, violas and cellos- more than 1,100 instruments by current estimate (Smithsonian, 2008). About 650 of these instruments survive today (Smithsonian, 2008). Bartolomeo Giuseppe Guarneri (1698-1744) Guarneri is considered the most illustrious member of this violin making family. The fifth and last member of the family, he is known more as Joseph Guarnerius del Gesu. Guarnerius is the Latin form of the family name and Joseph the Hebrew form of Giuseppe (Smithsonian, 2008). The estimate of his total production is not more than 250 violins; no evidence suggests that he made more (Smithsonian, 2008). But at least one violoncello and some violas are attributed to him. The outline of his violins, with slight modifications, is founded on instruments of Stradivarius (Smithsonian, 2008). Stradivarius and Guarnerius are ranked as among the greatest violin makers, but fine violinists prefer Guarnerius over Stradivarius (Smithsonian, 2008). Whatever the history or whoever the maker of the violin, we all must appreciate the efforts of these individuals who in one way or another contributed to the making of the violin. All these men have given much by way of continuously honing the instrument as it is known and enjoyed today by scores of people. Violin 6 Personal Reflection The violin represents probably on of the more versatile, elegant and mysterious of the instruments that we have today. The seeming smallness of the instrument somewhat does not tell of the long and painstaking process that went into its refinement and development. The reason that I centred the paper on this instrument is just for those following reasons. The instrument for me seems to just waft its notes and sounds over the listeners ears at just the right moments. They are, I believe, different from the wind pieces such as the trumpet and the saxophone. These pieces produce these shrill notes that sometimes tend to be irritable if you are not an admirer for the kind of music. But the violin just seems to play its notes in a mellow and smooth sound. It sometimes will want to lull to sleep at times. Im a fan of the violin. For me, there is just no instrument just like it in sound and depth and quality of sound. Yes, there are many pieces out there that seem to sound alike, but cant seem to touch the position of the violin. I cant imagine an orchestra without a violin in the strings section. It would be incomplete without it. The sound would be really different than the violins in it. And the violin can cross over to different genres of music, from classical to country to pop to jazz and to others, without a tad of difficulty. Thats another thing I like about this instrument, its very versatile. It can just blend in with the various styles of music that you put it with and it will perform handsomely, a trait not all instruments can boast of. What we can do now is just relax at every playing of the violin, just to enjoy the elegant sound of the instrument as the musician begins to play and begins to once again weave its magic over its listeners. Reference Berkeley. (2008). The origins and history of the violin. Retrieved February 11, 2008, from Berkeley website. http://www-atdp. berkeley. edu/2030/jmoriuchi/violin-title. html Hughes, A. (2008). Where did the violin originate? Retrieved February 11, 2008, from Answer Bank database http://www. theanswerbank. co. uk/Article1910. html Merriam-Webster. (2008). Viola. Retrieved February 11, 2008, from Merriam-Webster website http://www. merriam-webster. com/dictionary/viol Rosenblum, M. (2007). Violin. Retrieved February 11, 2008, from Microsoft Encarta encyclopaedia database. http://encarta. msn. com/encyclopedia_761576364/Violin. html Smithsonian Institution. (2008). Violin makers. Retrieved February 11, 2008, from Encyclopaedia Smithsonian website. http://www. si. edu/Encyclopedia_SI/nmah/violdasa. htm ThinkQuest. (1999). The violin. Retrieved February 11, 2008, from Oracle Education Foundation database. http://library. thinkquest. org/27178/en/section/1/index. html

Red Badge Of Courage Essay -- essays research papers

The effects that the physical environment, (nature) have on the main character, throughout any novel are so great. No one seems to notice the little details that slowly, yet gradually show, a main character's struggle, and the ironic role that nature plays in effecting their actions. Environment is always used some way, whether it is to help the main character cope with his or her struggle or, the strong emotional changes that it leaves the main character feeling after personal encounters with the cruel world. It happens more or less in every novel, although sometimes it's not as noticeable as others. In the Red Badge of Courage, main character Henry Fleming, is faced with many obstacles and tough situations that he must deal with. Nature and the physical environment around Henry, play a big role in the decisions that he makes, the actions that he takes and the re-evaluation of lifes values he later takes. The first large decision that Henry makes, is actually enlisting in the army. Crane, the author of the novel, doesn't make it appear as if this was a tough decision for Henry, although it was one of the largest, and the basis for the plot. Henry was bored of his life in the farm. Doing the same thing everyday was not enough action for him. He under estimated the power or war and thought that, that was the action he had been craving. Henry learns throughout the novel, that he had never been more wrong.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  After his enlisting in the army,...

Managing Quality in Partnership Working with Service Users

Central College London Module Study Guide G: Managing Quality in Partnership Working Graduate Diploma in Health and Social Care – Level 5 Module G: Managing Quality in Partnership Working The learner will: 1 Understand differing perspectives of quality and partnership working in relation to health and social care services Partnership: empowerment; independence; autonomy; power; informed choice; staff and organisation groups eg statutory, voluntary, private, independent, charitable; service usersQuality: audit; quality control; role of agencies eg Care Quality Commission, NICE; role of staff and users; quality perspectives eg Servqual-Zeithaml, Parasuraman and Berry; technical quality; functional quality http://areas. kenan-flagler. unc. edu/Marketing/FacultyStaff/zeithaml/Selected%20Publications/SERVQUAL-%20A%20Multiple-Item%20Scale%20for%20Measuring%20Consumer%20Perceptions%20of%20Service%20Quality. pdf The learner can: 1. 1 Discuss the philosophy of working in partnership in health and social care 1. Analyse the role of external agencies in setting standards and the impact this has on service quality The learner will: 2 Understand how to promote partnership philosophies and relationships in health and social care services Partnership working: empowerment; theories of collaborative working; informed decision making; confidentiality; professional roles and responsibilities; models of working eg unified, coordinated, coalition and hybrid models; management structures; communication methods; inter-disciplinary and inter-agency working and joint working agreements.Legislation: current and relevant legislation eg safeguarding, equality, diversity, disability, data protection Organisational practices and policies: current and relevant practices; agreed ways of working; services planning procedures and employment practices for different bodies ie statutory, voluntary, specialist units; risk assessment procedures The learner can: 2. 1 Compare models of partners hip working and discuss how differences in working practices and policies affect collaborative working across the sector 2. Evaluate current legislation and organisational practices and policies for partnership working in health and social care The learner will: 3Understand strategies for achieving quality in health and social care services Standards: minimum standards; best practice; benchmarks; performance indicators; charters; codes of practice; legislation eg local, national, European Implementing quality: planning, policies and procedures; target setting; audit; monitoring; review; resources (financial, equipment, personnel, accommodation); communication; information; adapting to changeBarriers: external (inter-agency interactions, legislation, social policy); internal (risks, resources, organisational structures, interactions between people) The learner can: 3. 1 Explain the standards that exist in health and social care for measuring quality 3. 2 Evaluate different approaches to implementing quality systems 3. 3 Analyse potential barriers to delivery of quality health and social care services The learner will: 4Evaluate the outcomes of partnership working for users of services, professionals and organisations in health and social care servicesOutcomes for service users: positive eg improved services, empowerment, autonomy, informed decision making; negative eg neglect, abuse, harm, anger, miscommunication, information overload, confusion, duplication of service provision, disempowerment Outcomes for professionals: positive eg coordinated service provision, professional approach, clear roles and responsibilities, organised communication, preventing mistakes, efficient use of resources; negative eg professional conflict, miscommunication, time wasting, mismanagement of fundingOutcomes for organisations: positive eg coherent approach, shared principles, comprehensive service provision, common working practices, integrated services; negative eg communicatio n breakdown, disjointed service provision, increased costs, loss of shared purpose Barriers to partnership working: lack of understanding of roles and responsibilities; negative attitudes; lack of communication; not sharing information; different priorities; different attitudes and valuesStrategies to improve outcomes: communication; information sharing; consultation; negotiation; models of empowerment; collective multi-agency working; dealing with conflict; stakeholder analysis The learner can: 4. 1 Analyse outcomes and barriers for partnership working for users of services, professionals and organisations 4. 2 Describe strategies to improve outcomes for partnership working in health and social care services The learner will: 5 Understand methodologies for evaluating health and social care service qualityMethods for assessing quality: questionnaires; focus groups; structured ans semi-structured interviews; panels, complaints procedures; open forums Perspectives: external eg inspect ion agencies; internal eg service standards; continuous improvement : mechanisms eg consultation, panels, user managed services The learner can: 5. 1 Analyse methods for evaluating health and social care service quality with regards to external and internal perspectives 5. 2 Discuss the impact that involving users of services in the evaluation process has on service quality ————————————————- Internal Assessment Guidance – Module D:Task 1 – Type of evidence: Presentation Assessment criteria: 1. 1, 1. 2, 4. 1, 4. 2 Additional information: Constitutes 30% of module mark Activity Review how a local health or social care provider engages with relevant partners in the delivery of their service, and how this can impact on the quality of the service they provide. You may already be familiar with this health or social care provider and have some knowledge of their app roach to partnership and quality standards OR you can choose a provider and analyse their practice based on the information contained: * Within their marketing / promotional material On their website * Within their latest report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) Please note in order to maintain confidentiality you can only refer to information that is available within the public domain Review their practice and answer the following questions in your presentation: a) How do they work in partnership with: outside agencies; specialist services; service users; professional bodies; voluntary and other organisations? (1. 1) b) How do these partnerships impact the quality of service provided? 1. 2) c) Analyse outcomes and barriers for partnership working with service users within this service (4. 1) d) Describe strategies that could improve outcomes for partnership working within this service (4. 2) You will need to prepare a presentation of approximately 10 minutes duration to illust rate your answers to the questions above. In your presentation you need to include copies of slides and presentation notes and submit a copy to your assessor. Your final slide should list correctly any references used.Presentation date: Week 3 Task 2 – Type of evidence: Report Assessment criteria: All of 2, 3 and 5. Constitutes 50% of the module mark Additional information: Word limit 1500 words Activity Using information available related to the health or social care provider that was the focus of your presentation for Task 1, submit a report answering the following questions: 1) Identify positive aspects of partnership practice within the service, and discuss how partnership practice could be improved (2. ) 2) Evaluate how relevant legislation is implemented to affect organisational practice related to partnership working (2. 2) 3) Explain at least five standards that exist for measuring quality (3. 1) 4) Identify and evaluate approaches to implementing quality systems (3. 2) 5) Analyse any barriers or potential barriers to delivering a good quality service (3. 3) 6) Analyse methods used for evaluating the quality of the service provided (5. 1) 7) Discuss the impact of any involvement of services users in the evaluation of service quality (5. 2)In order to promote confidentiality, ensure that you only refer to material and information that is available within the public domain. All sources of evidence should be accurately referenced at the end of your report. Task 3- Essay (500-700 words) . This will constitute 20% of the module mark. Reflect and write an essay which will identify what you have learned from this module to include personal strengths and weaknesses during the learning process. Highlight any need that will require development for the future which would enhance your employability. Submission date: 17/05/2013

Comparison between Roman and American Political Institutions

The Roman civilization was one of the most important civilizations occurred in the world. Political system in the Roman period encouraged people's participation and paved the way for democracy. The ancient political structure in the Roman period influenced the future democracies of Europe and other parts of the world. In the modern period, the United States is considered a role model for many democracies across the globe. There are several countries that have emulated the US style of democracy in their political system.While Roman political institutions were symbols of democracy in the ancient and medieval period, the political institutions in the USA hold significance in the modern period. Both Roman and American political institutions have many things in common. Historical Background â€Å"In 27 BC, Emperor Augustus devised a new form of monarchy by offering more powers to the people† (Abbott, 1963). He laid the foundation of a democratic system of the government that became the basis of the political structure of the country. Augustus maintained the forms of republican government until his death.He transferred the legislative function of the assemblies to the Senate. His successors followed the political structure established by him and also revised the structure from time to time. Major changes in the political structure of Rome were noticed in the medieval period. The political structure of the United States is vast and constructive. The US has the world's oldest written constitution. â€Å"The US Constitution, which formed the basis for laws and administration of the country, was written in 1787† (King, 1990). There have been many changes in the United States after the Constitution came into force.However, the basic principles remained unchanged. The Constitution provides the guidelines for the structure and functioning of the political institutions of the country. Political Structure in Rome and America The United States is comprised of 50 different states. The political structure of the United States has the federal government, state governments and local governments. The President is the head of the US political system. The federal government of the United States consists of the President, the US Congress and the federal courts.The US Congress is the main political institution of the country, which has two chambers called the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate has 100 members, while the House of Representative has 435 members. The political institutions of Rome consisted of the Assemblies, Senate, Curia and Forum. The Roman assemblies were integral parts of the political institutions of Rome. The Roman assemblies had both legislative and judicial powers in the Roman Republic. The Senate is the most deliberative body of the roman political system and it had considerable clout in the roman politics.Roman Assemblies vs American Legislature Unlike the legislatures in the United States, the Roman assembl ies used to open the houses directly to the people. The legislatures in the United States and other countries appoint representatives elected by the people. However, Roman assemblies were directly governed by the people. They also possessed important legislative powers such as passing laws and bills. In Roman assemblies, normal citizens did not debate legislation. There were only magistrates who had the power to propose legislation.The Roman assemblies were not deliberative by nature, while the Senate is deliberative. However, both the houses of the US Congress are deliberative. Of the two chambers of the US Congress, the Senate is more deliberative than the House of Representatives. The House of Representatives in the United States is similar to the Assemblies in Roman political structure. It is a house of people and follows public opinion. Just like the Roman assemblies, the House of Representatives has more proximity to the mass sentiments. However, there is one major difference in both the political institutions.While members of the Roman assemblies were appointed by the emperor or the rulers, members of the House of Representatives are elected by the people. Each of the 50 states is represented in the House of Representatives proportional to its population. Each member serves a two years term. The Roman Senate vs the US Senate The Senate in Rome was not an elected body. It was consisted of members from the Roman aristocratic classes. Those senators were primarily former magistrates who had severed in important administrative posts in the past. â€Å"The Senate held the major powers to preserve Roman knowledge and tradition.It always took major decision on religious affairs, public policy and foreign affairs. The Roman Senate was known as the â€Å"Council of Elders†. It had around 300 members. The Senators could be expelled if they were found to have committed an act against the public morals† (Abbott, 1963). Senators in the United States ar e directly elected by the people in their respective states. Each state sends two members to the Senate. Each senator serves for a six year period. â€Å"Elections are held for one-third of the seats of the Senate every second year.After being elected, a Senator serves until the expiry of his term† (King, 1990). Like the Roman Senate, the US Senate is also known as the â€Å"House of Elders†. The US Senate has the power to expel any member. Two-thirds majority votes are required to expel a Senator. Judicial Powers The Roman assemblies possessed judicial powers. At a later stage, some of the judicial powers were transferred to permanent courts. Although the separation of powers did not exist in the Roman political system, checks and balances were perfectly maintained. In the United States, the judiciary is separated from the legislature.The Senate or the House of Representatives do not have any authority over the proceeding of the courts. The Supreme Court is the highes t judicial body in the United States. While other federal courts are created by the Congress, the Supreme Court has been established by the US Constitution. Local Governments in the United States and Curia and Forum in the Roman Empire â€Å"In the ancient times, a curia was considered as a subdivision of the people. It was a meeting place where the tribe discussed its affairs. At a later stage, a curia became a place where local government held office† (Abbott, 1963).Judicial proceedings and government meetings were held in curia. The Roman Forum was the center for commerce, business and administration. All the community-based activities were held at the forum. The local governments in the United States resemble the Roman curia and forum. Local governments in the United States are referred to the governments at the city, town or village. Local governments have own jurisdiction on the developmental work in their areas although they are accountable to the state and federal gov ernments. ConclusionBoth the Roman and American political institutions have great significance in propagating democratic values in the world. Political system in the Roman Empire was the basis for the new political structures in the modern world. The US political system, which is being adopted by many countries in the world, is influenced by the ancient Roman political system to a large extent. Bibliography: King, A. (1990). The New American Political System. American Enterprise Institute. Abbott, Frank Frost. (1963). A History and Description of Roman Political Institutions. New York: Biblio & Tannen.

the growing number of teenage girls being stricken with eating disorders today essays

the growing number of teenage girls being stricken with eating disorders today essays An eating disorder is defined as a preoccupation with dieting and thinness leading to excessive weight loss. Ten years ago, the number of teenagers who suffered from eating disorders was less than 500,000. Today, there are more than three million teenage girls, in the U.S. alone, being stricken with diseases such as anorexia and bulimia. The alarming fact is that more than 15% of these girls will die. There are a number of different causes behind the developement of eating disorders. The stress put on young girls by the opposite sex and the fact that young girls face constant exposure to the be thin message from television, movies, fashion magazines, and the diet industry. Yet, the number one factor that runs through more than 95% of eating disorder victims is the issue of mental illness. Day in and day out, young girls deal with so much pressure from the opposite sex. In a poll taken in 1997, 80% of five thousand men claimed they perceive the perfect woman to be tall and thin. They also said that their idea of tall and thin was 510, 130 pounds. In reality, that description fits less than 5% of the population. Young men sometimes give girls a terrible self-image of themselves. Sometime, the harmless words of an adolescent boy can lead a girl with low self-esteem to a dangerous eating disorder. Take a look a one of todays fashion magazines! The definition of skinny is perceived in every picture. Not too long ago, Marilyn Monroe was the absolute icon of beauty. Today, a Hollywood casting director would tell her to come back when shed lost some weight. Todays standards of beauty are anorexic looking models and movie stars like Calista Flockhart of Ally McBeal. Twenty years ago, models weighed 8% less than the average woman; today, models weigh 23% less than the average woman. The pressure to be thin is greater than ever and young girls are being bombarded with images from...

Converting Cubic Inches to Cubic Feet

Converting Cubic Inches to Cubic Feet Converting cubic inches to cubic feet is a common problem. Here is the conversion factor and a worked example. Conversion Factor 1728 cubic inches 1 cubic foot 0.000578704 cubic feet 1 cubic inch Simple Example Convert 54.9 cubic inches into cubic feet. You can multiply by the conversion factor: 54.9 cubic inches x 0.000578704 cubic feet per cubic inch 0.0318 cubic feet or you could simply divide  the value in cubic feet by 1728: 54.9 cubic inches / 1728 cubic feet per cubic inch 0.0318 cubic feet Worked Example You measure a box and find it is 12 inches long, 5 inches high, and 3 inches deep. The volume of the box is length x width x height so the volume of the box is: 12 x 5 x 3 volume in cubic inches 180 cubic inches Now, to convert this to cubic feet, you know there are 1728 cubic inches in 1 cubic foot: 180 cubic inches x (1 cubic foot / 1728 cubic inches) volume in cubic feet 180 cubic inches x 0.000578704 cubic feet/cubic inch volume in cubic feet 0.1042 cubic feet

A New Work Ethic Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

A New Work Ethic - Case Study Example Indeed, what Sheehy reports as typical in a capitalist-based work environment is a matter of fact which most corporate people in the field of business may not be significantly aware of. There were a number of instances when I witnessed how the restaurant’s crew managed to game the system to their advantage. One time, I saw a co-employee assigned in cooking took for personal consumption a portion of dish from the plate that was to be served for customer and when I expressed curiosity and asked, I was merely told that it was no big deal since leftovers are a very common outcome from majority of customers. Another time, some three of the crew conspired to take a couple of bills from the petty cash compartment which they effortlessly carried out and it felt sad on me to have stayed helpless and that accounting of money for contingency purposes is deliberately overlooked. A friend of mine confessed of doing errands for office colleagues who had guts for spreading their weights arou nd as though to claim advantage of the good terms possessed between them and the immediate bosses who make critical decisions. Most of them, according to my friend, are also into the tradition of manipulating timekeeping record with low risk of getting caught due to poor coordination among responsible departments. It is no surprise at all, thus, to have read from the details of Sheehy’s personal work experience. (2) Explain the implications of the work ethic Sheehy describes for the future of American business. With the new work ethic shown in the work scenario presented by Sheehy, the economy of the future American business might run the risk of yielding a lesser probability of attracting stable consumerism. This would necessarily reflect in the customer feedback indicating unfavorable general results toward the unpleasant approach majority of them receive from inefficient and impolite working staff. Revenues are put at stake once the quality of customer service is taken for granted due to the conflict set by the prevailing ill attributes of work ethic which translates to problematic impression on a reputed business label through underperforming employees. American business could well be confronted with the predictable consequence of losing valuable clients who are naturally eligible to change preferences or make adjustments on priorities and budget on the basis of several factors including consideration of new line of commodities made by leading competitors in U.S. and abroad. (3) Explain whether it is more reasonable to expect workers, especially in a capitalist society, to be more devoted to their jobs, more concerned with quality and customer service, than Sheehy’s co-workers were. Knowing how a capitalist society works to meet its objectives via optimum capacity of production which the capitalist greatly expects from the pool of workers who are normally paid the minimum, it would be inconceivable for a worker to favor the company’s i nterest firsthand. Most probably, these working individuals would have motives and work ethic similar to those which Sheehy’s co-workers exhibited. As commodity production remains one-sided on generating massive profits for the capitalist while laborers are inclined to settle with a steady state of economy that is either hindered or is not supported in growth. Hence, it becomes natural