Mathematics Methodology Classroom Effect on Efficacy of Elementary Teachers

Background of the Study The theoretical concept of this research is teacher efficacy and belief, which originated from Bandura’s self-efficacy in social cognitive theory (Bandura, 1986). It has two elements, which include â€Å"efficacy expectations and outcome expectancies† (Bandura, 1986). The author is also quite categorical that efficacy among individuals has been demonstrated in various ways. For example, individuals can undertake self reflection in order to boost their levels of self efficacy.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Mathematics Methodology Classroom Effect on Efficacy of Elementary Teachers specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In addition, they are excellent self-regulators especially if they are allowed to monitor themselves. Other similar characteristics of self efficacy include being proactive, and self-organizing. Bandura notes that human beings usually contribute to the circumstances facing their lives besides the fact that they are products of the same circumstances. Kazempour also shares a similar sentiment about the relationship between the ideas of self-efficacy and teacher efficacy by asserting that they relate to each other (Kazempour, 2008). He noted that teachers who demonstrated confidence in mathematics teaching strategies had the ability to influence their students. In this context, the teacher’s belief has a direct influence on potential student outcomes in mathematics. It is also imperative to mention that teachers can use various strategies to enhance student outcomes and provide appropriate feedback that encourages positive results. As a matter of fact, teachers with high levels of efficacy have the ability to put in place and utilize various types of strategies. It is not possible to deliver the best results and claim efficacies if myriad types of strategies are not sourced and utilized. The role of an elementary teacher should be to impr ove student outcomes through different teaching strategies. Based on this observation, Kazempour (2008) concluded that learners’ performances in mathematics depended on their teacher’s efficacy, because teacher efficacy as dictated by the use of various strategies had a significant influence on the outcome of students. When multiple and efficient strategies are used, learners are easily motivated and therefore are expected to perform exceptionally well. On the same note, Bursal (2007 also noted that the use of self-efficacy in improving mathematics literacy allowed teachers to enhance student outcomes regardless of their social backgrounds or other challenges (Bursal, 2007). Teachers who were aware of self-efficacy stressed the importance of learners in the teaching and learning process. Such teachers made students believe they were a part of the learning process. In this model, learners may feel that their contributions are also important to the class and develop inte rest in the subject (Bursal, 2007).Advertising Looking for essay on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More With reference to Bandura’s theoretical framework and other studies on personal efficacy and teacher self-efficacy, teacher efficacy may be defined as the teacher’s â€Å"judgment of his or her capabilities to bring about desired outcomes of student engagement and learning, even among those students who may be difficult or unmotivated† (Bandura, 1986; Ashton, Webb, Doda, 1982a; Ashton, Webb, 1986). It is important to understand the two aspects of teacher efficacy. Teachers also have personal beliefs through which they view the effectiveness of their teaching strategies. In addition, teaching outcome expectancy consists of teachers’ beliefs that effective teaching can effective teaching can create â€Å"positive student learning outcomes regardless of external factors† (Bandura, 198 6; Ashton, Webb Doda, 1982b). Teachers who hold this view believe that external factors such as family background, parental influence, IQ, school conditions, and home environment do not influence a student’s performance in mathematics once the teacher uses the appropriate strategy to enhance the student’s ability to learn and grasp new information. The above is among the strategies that have been employed to boost the efficacy of teachers when handling mathematics at the elementary level. This strategy is indeed an effective mathematics methodology for improving the efficacy of teachers (Cone, 2009). In yet another assertion, the author made it clear that community-based service learning â€Å"significantly influenced pre-service elementary teachers’ outcome expectancy toward equitable science teaching and learning† (Cone 2009, p.26). Cone’s study aimed to establish why pre-service teachers had low levels of teaching efficacy beliefs despite the i mprovement in science and other education courses. Problems may occur when the teacher is not certain about his or her skills or ability to ensure effective teaching. Teacher efficacy accounts for learners’ achievement, teacher behavior, and motivation, but it tends to be specific to certain contexts (Little, 2003). Within the context of mathematics, teaching efficacy focuses on two fundamental areas that relate to two aspects of teacher efficacy: mathematics teaching efficacy and teaching outcome expectancy. Few studies regarding mathematics teaching efficacy among elementary pre-service teachers exist.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Mathematics Methodology Classroom Effect on Efficacy of Elementary Teachers specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More However, available studies have shown â€Å"a statistically significant increase in mathematics teaching efficacy after completion of one methods course or a sequen ce of methods courses† (Huinker Madison, 1997; Cakiroglu, 2000). Moreover, such improvements were also evident after completing content in mathematics courses. According to Lee (2010), studies have concentrated on teacher efficacy and correlated its significance to factors like classroom instructional strategies and eagerness to use new approaches in teaching. Both pre-service and in-service teachers who demonstrated high standards of teacher efficacy often used various approaches during their classroom lessons. Czernaik noted that teachers who possessed high standards of self-efficacy were most likely to use inquiry and student-centered teaching and learning methods (Czerniak, 1990). On the other hand, teachers who had low-levels of self-efficacy were likely to apply teacher-centered approaches in the classroom. In addition, teachers who had high standards of teaching efficacy were likely to apply new methods in their classrooms. This could be a difficult method to implement , â€Å"involved risks and would require sharing control with learners† (Czerniak, 1990, p.120). Such teachers attempt to match reforms proposed by the NCTM of 2000. Pre-service teachers often have preconceived beliefs concerning mathematics and their teaching and learning abilities in this subject (Cakiroglu, 2008). Most of these beliefs originate from their experiences as students. A number of these pre-service teachers have different views about mathematics. According to Cakiroglu, pre-service teachers also noted that exposure to â€Å"reform strategies in mathematics methods courses affected their level of mathematics teacher efficacy† (Cakiroglu, 2000). Hoffman studied the role of â€Å"self-efficacy beliefs, mathematics anxiety, and working memory capacity in problem-solving accuracy, response time, and efficiency; i.e., the ratio of problem-solving accuracy to response time (Hoffman, 2010). He noted that there were differences in â€Å"self-efficacy role on ef ficiency and response time, and a possible compensatory association between self-efficacy and mathematics anxiety in relation to efficiency outcomes† (Hoffman, 2010). Some past studies have noted that pre-service teachers with high standards of mathematics teacher efficacy often used manipulative instructional strategies. When manipulative strategies are used, misconceptions that may arise from poor instructional methods are avoided. For example, when mathematical teachers offer instructions to learners, it is vital for them to diagnose the common errors that individual learners often face when carrying out calculations.Advertising Looking for essay on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It may be possible that a learner persistently fails a particular mathematical problem due to misconceived ideas. If such misconceptions are not dealt with out rightly, the affected learner may continue facing the same mathematical challenge. It is against this backdrop that the mathematical teacher is supposed to make use of instructional exercises that cannot just diagnose the problem, but also assist the learner to solve the mathematical challenge as quickly and effectively as possible. It is inevitable that learners may sometimes experience difficulties when handling mathematical problems. While some of these difficulties may be occasioned by ineffective instructional methods in a classroom environment, it is also possible that students may individually acquire erroneous procedures and misconceptions when they are practicing how to carry out mathematical computations. Perhaps, mathematical instructions should take the form of paper and pencil guideline especially when teachers a re introducing new concepts to young learners Therefore, pre-service teachers who demonstrated high standards of mathematics teacher efficacy were favorable toward reforms in teaching and learning mathematics. On the other hand, pre-service teachers who demonstrated low standards of mathematics teacher efficacy required improvement in their manipulative strategies in order to facilitate teaching mathematics in classrooms. Such outcomes are persistent with some past studies (Battista,1994;Czerniak, 1990). Cakiroglu (2000) is of the opinion that pre-service teachers must understand the importance of classroom instructional approaches and teacher efficacy besides showing their eagerness for adopting reforms in teaching and learning mathematics at the elementary level. The author has used a theoretical model to expound this phenomenon. Cakiroglu noted that it was important for elementary pre-service teachers to take part in â€Å"a mathematics methods course in order to increase mathem atics teacher efficacy† (Cakiroglu, 2000, p.92). In addition, elementary pre-service teachers also require encouragement and outstanding experiences when teaching mathematics method courses. This will allow such teachers to work toward achieving the efficaciousness required by mathematics reforms. It is also vital for pre-service teachers to gain and utilize the much needed teaching experience bearing in mind that long term exposure to different levels of complexities often enhances teacher efficacy and high level delivery of lesson content. To ensure that all these factors are considered, this study will seek to answer the following questions: What are the main impacts of the teachers’ training course on the self-efficacy levels of pre-service teachers? Do self-efficacy and beliefs towards mathematics affect the behavior of pre-service teachers in classrooms and their teaching practices? How do the participants view mathematics, and what is the relationship between th eir perception of mathematics and their classroom practices? What are pre-service teachers’ perceptions of their understanding of the subject of mathematics and their ability to teach the subject? Characteristics of the Subject Population Age range. The age range for research participants will be 20 years and above. This will account for diversity among pre-service teachers in the United States. Gender. Research participants will consist of both female and male pre-service teachers in the ratio of 1:1 respectively. Number of participants. Approximately 14 to 18 pre-service teachers in Indiana university of Pennsylvania Sample. The researcher will determine the appropriate sample based on the population of pre-service teachers in the region of the study. This sample will consist of pre-service teachers enrolled in a method class. Inclusion criteria. The study will include only Indiana University of Pennsylvania students who are majoring in education (pre-service) and are trai ning as mathematics teachers at the elementary level. Vulnerable subjects No vulnerable subjects will be included in the study. The participants are adult and volunteers. They can withdraw at any time in the study. Methods and Procedures Method of Subject Selection In order to conduct the study, a list of pre-service teachers in Indiana University of Pennsylvania will be obtained from the coordinators of the mathematics departments. Each of the mathematics department will be requested to avail 3 male and 3 female participants in order to balance the number of participants in the survey. Study Site The study site for each interview will be in University settings. However, she will also respect the wishes of respondents. Therefore, respondents are free to choose a location for the interview. Methods and Procedures Applied to Human Subjects Firstly, I will send the survey to everyone by the email n the beginning of the semester then at the end of the semester I will ask the class to pa rticipate in the interview. In the end of the semester the one who agree to participate will sign the consent and put it in the box. I will then interview them individually in a university sitting The study will engage respondents in a face-to-face interview. This will provide the opportunity to gather the in-depth information necessary for the study question. The preferred place for the interview is a school environment. This is necessary to ensure professional tone during the process. The study will use survey questionnaires to gather data. The study will involve the use of tape recorders. The researcher will transcribe all collected data and draw his conclusions. This is a preliminary stage of collecting data for the main study. Collected data will help the researcher to identify common themes and formulate appropriate study questions. Risks or Benefits Potential Risks This study does not pose any form of risk to research participants. There is no form of intervention in the stud y. Protection against Risks The study does not pose risks to participants. Therefore, no protection against potential risk is necessary. Potential Benefits This study will assess the pre-service teachers’ attitudes, beliefs, and efficacy toward mathematics. From the results of the study, the relationship between self-efficacy and teaching practices will be determined. Finally, the study will discuss measures that can be taken to ensure that teachers’ training processes are effective and lead to the development of professionals who are effective and efficient in performing their duties. Compensation for participation: Participants for the study will not be compensated, as their involvement will be voluntary. Alternatives to participation: There will be no alternatives to participation. Information withheld: All the information provided by the participants will be confidential. Debriefing – A summary of the procedures and results of the study will be made availab le to any participant at the end of the study. Privacy or Confidentiality Confidentiality Prior to the interview process, the confidentiality of the respondents will be guaranteed. The information gathered from the study will not be accessed by any unauthorized individuals except in the event of an investigation where a warrant has been issued. The researcher will store personal information as well as the data generated from the study in a secure location. Consequently, the confidentiality of the respondents will be maintained during the data analysis and interpretation phases. In the event a participant wishes not to be included or continue with the process, the questionnaires that have been administered to him/her will be destroyed immediately. References Ashton, P. T., Webb, R. B., Doda, N. (1982a). A study of teacher sense of efficacy, Final Report Volume 1. Florida: Foundation of Education University of Florida. Ashton, P. T., Webb, R. B., Doda, N. (1982b). A study of teache rs’ sense of efficacy, Final Report Volume 2. Florida: Foundation of Education University of Florida. Ashton, P.T., Webb, R.B. (1986). Making a difference: Teachers’ sense of efficacy and student achievement. New York: Longman. Bandura, A. (1977). Self-efficacy: Toward a unifying theory of behavioral change. Psychological Review, 34, 191-215. Bandura, A. (1986). Social foundations of thought and action: A social cognitive theory.Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall. Battista, M. T. (1994). Teacher beliefs and the reform movement of mathematics education. Phi Delta Kappan, 75, 462-470. Bursal, M. (2007). Turkish preservice elementary teachers’ self- efficacy beliefs regarding mathematics and science teaching. International Journal of science and Mathematics Education, 8(4), 649-666. Cakiroglu, E. (2000). Preservice elementary teachers’ sense of efficacy in reform oriented mathematics. Indiana: Indiana University. Cakiroglu, E. (2008). The teaching efficacy beliefs of pre-service teachers in the USA and Turkey. Journal of Education for Teaching, 34(1), 33-44. Cone, N. (2009). Pre-service elementary teachers’ self-efficacy beliefs about equitable science teaching: Does service learning make a difference? Journal of Elementary Science Education, 21(2), 25-34. Czerniak, C. M. (1990). A study of self-efficacy, anxiety, and science knowledge in preservice elementary teachers. Atlanta, GA: the National Association for Research in Science Teaching. Hoffman, B. (2010). â€Å"I think I can, but I’m afraid to try†: The role of self-efficacy beliefs and mathematics anxiety in mathematics problem-solving efficiency. Learning and Individual Differences, 20(3), 276–283. Huinker, D., Madison, S. K. (1997). Preparing efficacious elementary teachers in science and mathematics: The influence of methods courses. Journal of Science Teacher Education, 8(2), 107-126. Kazempour, M. (2008). Exploring attitudes, beliefs, and self efficacy of pre-service elementary teachers enrolled in a science methods course and factors responsible for possible changes. Ann Arbor: UMI Dissertations Publishing. Lee, T. (2010). Teaching mathematics creatively, New York, NY: Taylor Francis. Little, M. E. (2003). Successfully teaching mathematics, Educational Forum, 67(3-6). This essay on Mathematics Methodology Classroom Effect on Efficacy of Elementary Teachers was written and submitted by user J0anna to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Free Essays on Pornography

TITLE: THE HISTORY AND SIGNIFICANCE OF PORNOGRAPHY Pornography gets people bothered as dependably as it gets them hot. There’s something philosophically itchy about text that is so intimately linked to action†¦Ã¢â‚¬  ( Weatherfield,M.1998 ). Pornography inspires many diverse and strong debates even today in the 21st century despite this topic’s notorious history throughout the ages. Aside of the social and political arguments on pornography, the history of this particular subject- its beginnings and the societies from which it came- is of great worth and interest. The literature coming out of France in the 18th century, the prohibited literature that was censored and burnt by those in authority as well as the writers of pornography themselves, were catalysts in revolutionising societies definitions of sexual practise and social custom. Thus the historical and social repercussions of this literary movement, its establishment of a rich genre of sexual representations and the subsequent views on sexuality wit hin society, are seen to be heavily indebted to 18th century France. Pornography’s definition is as troubling as its political debates. â€Å"The written or visual presentation in a realistic form of any genital or sexual behaviour with a deliberate violation of existing and widely accepted moral and social taboos† ( Stewart,P.1997 ). Despite the somewhat vague terms used in this definition it suffices as the closest interpretation of pornography outside of art, personal opinion, erotic literature, and anything which arouses sexual feelings. The word itself first coming into existence in 1869, meaning the â€Å"literature or writing of prostitutes† ( Stewart,P.1997 ). However 18th century France’s definition of pornography was not the same as modern day man’s definition. Books at that time were separated into work of the Enlightenment and pornography. The latter half were illegal, the political satire that they... Free Essays on Pornography Free Essays on Pornography Pornography Degrades Women Porn is a cancer eating away at the souls of millions of men, women, and children at this very hour (Kennedy 1). Porn is also known as any material that combines sex and/or exposure of genitals with abuse or degradation in a manner that appears to endorse, condone, or encourage such behavior (Pornography 1). Porn is one of the most controversial forms of expression (Downs 1). Porn is not â€Å"just fantasy† for the women who are used in making it (Russell 6). Many people’s attitudes toward porn show how controversial it really is. The availability of porn and the effects it has on people shows just how degrading it truly is. Porn sends the message of men and women enjoying being beaten, abused, and raped. It also sends the message that women secretly enjoy the abuse which is untrue (Pornography 1). Porn is available on television and can easily be accessed on the internet (Wierzbicka 1). Video stores, adult video stores, variety stores, adult stores, and newspapers are other places where pornography can be accessed or advertised (Pornography 1-2). America is by far the world’s leading producer of porn, churning out hard-core videos at the astonishing rate of about 150 new titles per week. Today pornography brings in at least $8 million per year and potentially much more in hidden and illegal profits. The porn industry has surpassed total Hollywood revenues for all domestic box office receipts and earns more each year than all the revenues from the sale of rock or country music. A sociologist quoted in the U.S. News report says the sexual content of American culture has changed m ore in the last two decades than in the previous two centuries (Kennedy 1-2). The amount of profits that pornography brings in gives an example to how many people are using porn and how available it is. People do not understand how obscene porn is (Wierzbicka 1). Some scholars have... Free Essays on Pornography TITLE: THE HISTORY AND SIGNIFICANCE OF PORNOGRAPHY Pornography gets people bothered as dependably as it gets them hot. There’s something philosophically itchy about text that is so intimately linked to action†¦Ã¢â‚¬  ( Weatherfield,M.1998 ). Pornography inspires many diverse and strong debates even today in the 21st century despite this topic’s notorious history throughout the ages. Aside of the social and political arguments on pornography, the history of this particular subject- its beginnings and the societies from which it came- is of great worth and interest. The literature coming out of France in the 18th century, the prohibited literature that was censored and burnt by those in authority as well as the writers of pornography themselves, were catalysts in revolutionising societies definitions of sexual practise and social custom. Thus the historical and social repercussions of this literary movement, its establishment of a rich genre of sexual representations and the subsequent views on sexuality wit hin society, are seen to be heavily indebted to 18th century France. Pornography’s definition is as troubling as its political debates. â€Å"The written or visual presentation in a realistic form of any genital or sexual behaviour with a deliberate violation of existing and widely accepted moral and social taboos† ( Stewart,P.1997 ). Despite the somewhat vague terms used in this definition it suffices as the closest interpretation of pornography outside of art, personal opinion, erotic literature, and anything which arouses sexual feelings. The word itself first coming into existence in 1869, meaning the â€Å"literature or writing of prostitutes† ( Stewart,P.1997 ). However 18th century France’s definition of pornography was not the same as modern day man’s definition. Books at that time were separated into work of the Enlightenment and pornography. The latter half were illegal, the political satire that they... Free Essays on Pornography It started by way of messengers and scribes, evolved through the presentation of newspapers and radio, brought us together with television, and now serves us world-wide via the ever-popular Internet. It is the mass media, and even from the earliest days of its existence, it has contributed greatly in ways that both enlighten and enrich society, and ways that deteriorate and perplex it. It is not a surprise to learn, then, that the mass media is the most powerful source of information we have, and nothing else in today’s world influences public perception quite as heavily. Unfortunately, however, most of what is broadcast or transmitted in the news today is with reference to the chaotic condition of our planet, or something else that society as a whole sees as detrimental or damaging. But the news on television is not the only type of media taking the criticism of society. Other forms of mass media, specifically movies and television programs containing pornography and violence have been heavily criticized. The underlining concept to be debated here is that society is negatively influenced, specifically, by these images of pornography and the result is increased violence against women. This assumption, and it is indeed only an assumption, is completely fallacious, however, as no concrete and completely conclusive evidence has ever been formulated in support of the theory. The key premise here is that the mass media does not cause undesirable social behaviour and in actuality, the media people should not be dubbed as the â€Å"bad guys†. They sim ply use their power in the most constructive ways possible in order to promote their ratings and popularity. One way to do that is to concentrate on what sells: sex, violence and disaster. Having said this, why is it then, that many in society still believe otherwise; why do they continue to believe that pornography is â€Å"evil† and is a major cause for violence against women, specifical...

4 Creative Ways to Analyze Plays

4 Creative Ways to Analyze Plays As students we remember sitting through countless lectures in which the instructor waxed eloquently about dramatic literature, while the class listened patiently, taking notes now and then. Today, as teachers, we certainly love to lecture about Shakespeare, Shaw, and Ibsen; after all, we love to hear ourselves talk! However, we also love student involvement, the more creative, the better. Here are a few ways for students to exercise their imagination while analyzing dramatic literature. Write (and Perform?) Additional Scenes Since plays are meant to be performed, it makes sense to encourage your students to act out some of the scenes in the play. If they are an energetic and outgoing group, this can work splendidly. However, it might be that your English class is filled with rather shy (or at least quiet) students who will be reluctant to read Tennessee Williams or Lillian Hellman out loud. Instead, have students work in groups to write a brand new scene for the play. The scene could take place before, after, or in-between the playwrights storyline. Note: Tom Stoppard did an excellent job of writing scenes that take place in between Hamlet. Its a play called Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead. Another example some students will be more likely to appreciate would be Lion King 1 1/2. Consider some of these possibilities: Write a scene set ten years before Death of a Salesman. What was the main character like before he had children? What was his career like in the early days?Write a scene that shows what happens between Hamlets Act III and IV. Many dont realize that Hamlet hangs out with pirates for a while. Id love to know what happens between the Danish prince and the band of buccaneers.Write a new ending to Henrik Ibsens A Dolls House. Reveal what Nora Helmer does the day after she leaves her family. Does her husband win her back? Does she find a new sense of purpose and identity? During the writing process, the students may remain true to the characters, or they may spoof them or modernized their language. When the new scenes are finished, the class can take turns performing their work. If some groups would rather not stand in front of the class, they can read from their desks. Create a Comic Book Bring some art supplies to class and have students work in groups to illustrate a graphic novel version of the play or a critique of the playwrights ideas. Recently in one of my classes, students were discussing Man and Superman, George Bernard Shaws battle-of-the-sexes comedy that also contemplates Nietzsches ideal of a human, the Superman or ÃÅ"bermensch. While creating a literary response in comic book form, the students took the Clark Kent/Superman character and replaced him with a Nietzschean superhero who selfishly ignores the weak, hates Wagner operas, and can leap existential problems in a single bound. They had fun creating it, and it also displayed their knowledge of the plays themes. Some students might feel insecure about their drawing abilities. Assure them that it is their ideas that matter, not the quality of the illustrations. Also, let them know that stick figures are an acceptable form of creative analysis. Drama Rap Battles This works especially well with the complex works of Shakespeare. This activity can produce something incredibly silly. If there are sincere urban poets in your classroom, they might compose something meaningful, even profound. Take a soliloquy or a two-person scene from any Shakespearean play. Discuss the meaning of the lines, clarifying the metaphors and mythical allusions. Once the class understands the basic meaning, have them work in groups to create a modernized version through the art of rap music. Heres a brief albeit corny example of a rapping version of Hamlet: Guard #1: Whats that sound?Guard #2: All around- I dont know.Guard #1: Dont you hear it?Guard #2: This Denmark place is haunted by an evil spirit!Horatio: Here comes Prince Hamlet, hes a melancholy Dane.Hamlet: My mother and my uncle are driving me insane!Yo Horatio - why did we come out here?Theres nothing in the forest for me to fear.Horatio: Hamlet, dont get upset and dont go mad.And dont look now-Hamlet: ITS THE GHOST OF MY DAD!What is this apparition with eyes that fright?Ghost: I am thy fathers spirit who does forever walk the night.Your uncle killed your daddy, but that aint the bomb-That big jerk went and married your Mom! After each group is finished, they can take turns delivering their lines. And if someone can get a good beat-box going, all the better. Warning: Shakespeare might be spinning in his grave during this assignment. For that matter, Tupac might start spinning as well. But at least the class will have a good time. Standing Debate Set Up: This works best if students have room to stand up and move about freely. However, if that is not the case, divide the classroom into two sides. Each side should turn their desks so that the two large groups face each other- they should be ready to engage in some serious literary debate! On one side of the chalkboard (or whiteboard) the instructor writes: AGREE. On the other side, the instructor writes: DISAGREE. In the middle of the board, the instructor writes an opinion based statement about the characters or ideas within the play. Example:  Abigail Williams  (the antagonist of The Crucible) is a sympathetic character. The students individually decide if they agree or disagree with this statement. They move to either the AGREE SIDE of the  room or the DISAGREE SIDE. Then, the debate begins. Students express their  opinions and state-specific examples from the text to support their argument. Here are some interesting topics for debate: Hamlet truly goes insane. (He’s not just pretending).Arthur Miller’s  Death of a Salesman  accurately criticizes the  American Dream.Anton Chekhov’s plays  are more tragic than comic. In a standing debate, the students should feel free to change their minds. If someone comes up with a good point, the fellow classmates might decide to move to the other side. The instructor’s goal is not to sway the class one way or another.  Instead, the teacher should keep the debate on track, occasionally playing devil’s advocate to keep the students thinking critically. Generate Your Own Creative Analysis Activities   Whether you are an English teacher, a home school parent or you are just looking for an imaginative way to respond to literature; these creative activities are just a few of the endless possibilities.

Ethical tourism practices in Cancun Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Ethical tourism practices in Cancun - Essay Example This island belongs to the Mexican Caribbean sector and the name Cancun means, "bubble". This is literally how most tourists describe the secluded island. The Cancun is like a bubble enveloped in the wrap of time - far away from the maddening pace of the everyday life and external factors. The charm of Cancun lies in the fact that this secluded island offers all kinds of facilities within the island so that tourists do not need to leave the island in order to get any kind of necessities. It has hotels for all classes of tourists and caters to a variety of tastes and preferences as well. In this regard, sustainable tourism is an important feature that can be built into the tourism of the area as this area garners a major proportion of income from the tourism industry in Mexico. Sustainable tourism in this region can flourish mainly as this island has a rich heritage of diverse vegetation and scenic beauty apart from sea world vegetation and rare species of fish and other such species. A country that is so rich in the area of natural environs should take extra care to enhance its sustainable development so as to protect the rare species of the plant and animal kingdom that thrive there. Apart from this is the fact that due to its hold over the tourism industry in terms of contribution to the economy, Cancun stands a strong chance of developing a framework for sustainable tourism. It merely needs the right case to base this framework on, which has been discussed in this paper. Sustainable tourism in a beautiful island like Cancun is like a dream come true for environmentalists as well as policy makers who believe in green politics and green economy. Further, Cancun is already an established tourist hot spot. It has a wide network of hotel and other service providers like transport and other facilities. Cancun has 140 hotels, which translates to 24,000 rooms. These hotels and rooms cater to all kinds of people in the socio economic make up. There is something here that everyone can afford. This is a definite draw for a large chunk of tourists. Further, it has over 600 restaurants which ensures that people with varied tastes can find their ideal kind of cuisine in this island. That takes care of food and accommodation - the two most important things that a tourist or vacationer focuses on when on vacation. When a

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Toyotas Social Initiatives - Case Study Example This essay declares that one of the most important questions that the rise of the modern business corporation has triggered in the minds of men is the following: â€Å"What is the purpose of a business?† Like the human beings that founded, managed, and grew them, corporations have searched for answers to this basic question on the assumption that doing so would give meaning to their existence, their behavior, and the countless short- and long-term business decisions made each day. This paper stresses that the search for an answer is not easy. Why and how does a business begin? Usually, some brave soul discovers a need in society that can be met, a product or a service that can be sold either because no one else is selling it or because s/he thinks it can be improved, made more convenient, or sold at a cheaper price. In the process, the person who discovers this unmet need and can supply it to people who are willing to pay the right price becomes rich. The business grows, expands, competes, and then goes public by listing in the stock market†¦and then what? This is where having a business purpose comes in handy, because making money is the easy part (although most start-up businesses fail, not only in America but in any other part of the world). These successful businesses go beyond finding ways to be profitable and try to discover how to spend those profits. the company’s business goals can be profitable if properly managed.... The business grows, expands, competes, and then goes public by listing in the stock marketand then what This is where having a business purpose comes in handy, because making money is the easy part (although most start-up businesses fail, not only in America but in any other part of the world). These successful businesses go beyond finding ways to be profitable and try to discover how to spend those profits. At first, companies were happy to share those profits with their managers, employees, and shareholders, but over the years, everyone realized that there were limits to the amount of money one could spend. In their search for a purpose, they came up with several answers. Adam Smith, in his Wealth of Nations, Book III entitled "Of the Natural Progress of Opulence" (Bartleby 2001) entreated private businesses to go beyond profits and create surpluses for export because this would lead to progressive wealth resulting in the improvement of the standard of living and the cultivation of society, a sort of heaven on earth where everyone would be happy. Drucker (1955) argued that the creation of value is the purpose of the organization, and that the purpose of business is to create and keep a customer. Friedman (1962) also emphasized that the social responsibility of business is to increase profits and maximize shareholder return without breaking the law, and that it is not the purpose of business to take care of society. Two prominent thinkers disagreed. Freeman (1984), the pioneer of stakeholder theory, defined (p. 48) stakeholders as "groups and individuals who can affect the organisation" and that "managerial behaviour must respond to those groups and individuals." Freeman argued that a business must go

Theory Building Essay Example for Free

Theory Building Essay Some of the theories used to explain different aspects of organizational management include Maslow’s Hierarchical Theory of Needs and Freud’s Psychoanalytic Theory. According to Maslow’s theory physiological needs supervene psychological needs. Maslow’s theory states that certain needs which are inborn internal motivations influence the decisions made by individuals (Landy Conte, 2006, p.335). His theory allowed for the environment to play a significant role in motivated behavior by suggesting that once a set of needs are satisfied by environmental forces, the next higher needs are activated in an individual. As opposed to Maslow’s theory, Freud places emphasis on the role of an individual’s mind [specifically his unconscious mind] in the determination of an individual’s motivation. Within Freud’s Psychoanalytic Theory, an individual’s unconscious desires determine his motivations. Both theories can be used to explain the motivations behind individual’s actions and decisions within the field of business. How do propositions and hypotheses differ? According to Zikmund (1988) a proposition is â€Å"a statement concerned with the relationship among concepts. It is an assertion of a universal connection between events that have certain properties† (p. 44). As opposed to this, a hypothesis is â€Å"an unproven proposition or supposition that tentatively explains certain facts or phenomena. It is a proposition that is empirically testable† (Zikmund, 1988, p.45). The main difference between the two may be traced to the investigatory use of a hypothesis as the hypothesis is used to investigate and test a claim. It is important to note that the hypothesis itself is a proposition; the difference of a hypothesis from other propositions merely lies in its use to verify or falsify a claim. Given this context one might thereby state that although a hypothesis is a proposition not all propositions are hypotheses. How do concepts differ from variables?   According to Zikmund (1988) a concept refers to a â€Å"generalized idea about a class of objects, attributes, occurrences, or process that have been given a name† (p. 41). As opposed to this, a variable is â€Å"a concept whose value changes from case to case† (Macionis Plummer, 2005, p.51). Consider for example the concept ‘price’ wherein ‘price’ refers to the value of an object. Within the context of the department store, the ‘price’ of different objects differ from each other due to the differences of the factors used in determining the value of an object. In addition to this although some concepts may correspond to a set of empirical measures, not all concepts do as opposed to variables that may correspond to two or more values. Comment on this statement: â€Å"There is nothing as practical as a good theory.† A theory refers to a â€Å"coherent set of general propositions used to explain the apparent relationships among certain observed phenomena† (Zikmund, 1988, p.41). Theories are important as they provide a framework for the analysis of a particular event. A theory may thereby provide an individual with the necessary assumptions that may trace the reason for the occurrence of a particular event. In a sense, one might state that it provides an individual with the causal explanation on how an event q was caused by an event p. It is necessary however that the theory used for the explanation is a good theory. A good theory here refers to a theory whose â€Å"empirical content is less than or equal to the ‘logical content’† (Boland, 1989, p.56). Such is the characteristic of a good theory since it ensures that the theory is empirically verifiable and hence testable. Given this context, there is nothing as practical as a good theory since it ensures that one’s explanations for the occurrence of a particular event is continuously verifiable and hence testable and thereby easily proven to be valid easily. The 17th-century Dutch philosopher Benedict Spinoza said, â€Å"If the facts conflict with a theory, either the theory must be changed or the facts.† According to Spinoza, when facts conflict with a theory there is a necessity to either change the theory or change the facts in order to ensure the theory’s validity. A theory is either formulated through the use of inductive reasoning or deductive reasoning. Deductive reasoning refers to â€Å"the logical process of deriving a conclusion about a specific instance based on a known general premise or something known to be true† (Zikmund, 1988, p. 46). Inductive reasoning, on the other hand, refers to the â€Å"the logical process of establishing a general proposition on the basis of observation of particular facts† (Zikmund, 1988, p.47). In the case of a theory formulated using a deductive argument, there is a need to assess the validity of propositions [facts] in order to ensure the validity and soundness of the argument. In the case of inductive arguments, the change or addition of a proposition [facts] changes the conclusion thereby leading to the change of the theory itself. Find another definition of theory. How is the definition you found similar to this book’s definition? How is it different? Kerlinger (1979) defines a theory as â€Å"a set of interrelated constructs (variables), definitions, and propositions that presents a systematic view of phenomenon by specifying relations among variables, with the purpose of explaining natural phenomena† (qtd in Creswell, 2002, p. 120). As opposed to this Zikmund (1988) defines a theory as a â€Å"coherent set of general propositions used to explain the apparent relationships among certain observed phenomena† (p.41). As can be seen above, both definitions note that a theory is composed of more abstract components in the form of propositions wherein each proposition is interrelated in such a way that when combined together they formulate one coherent and systematic worldview. The difference of Kerlinger’s definition however may be traced to his addition of what a theory is trying to explain that being ‘natural phenomena’. Hence, Zikmund’s definition may be seen as presenting a broad definition of a theory whereas Kerlinger narrows his definition by stating what a theory refers to. References Boland, L. (1989). The Methodology of Economic Model Building: Methodology After Samuelson. London: Routledge. Creswell, J. (2002). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Method Approaches. London: SAGE. Landy, F. J. Conte. (2006). Work in the 21st Century: An Introduction to Industrial and Organizational Psychology. London: Routledge. Macionis, J. K. Plummer. (2005). Sociology: A Global Introduction. Np: Pearson. Zikmund, W. (1988). Business Research Methods. California: University of California Press.

Faith and Reason in The Nineteenth Century Essay -- Essays Papers

Faith and Reason in The Nineteenth Century Throughout history, there have been many trends and patterns that have allowed humankind to learn from its mistakes. This reflection on the past is an important characteristic that distinguishes humans from all other life on earth. To make sure that humans do not fall into the same evil devices that our forefathers did, we must examine how our faith and reason has progressed through the past few centuries. Reason began to be the sole factor that effected the direction life was taking. This rationalism even crept into the sphere of religious influence. In Europe during the nineteenth century, human reason made strides toward modernism by shifting focus onto the individual, and by applying what we had learned as a whole, thinkers intellectual advancements were used for the betterment of industry and society. During this same period in time, the church's power was subordinated to that of the state for the first time. In Europe, and especially in the tumultuous nation of France, the church faced fierce attacks from the governments of the nations. In France, this was more apparent than anywhere else. When the new government of Robespierre and the council of public safety came to power, they put vast restrictions on the power held by the Roman Catholic Church in France. To begin with, the government took church owned lands to pay off large amounts of debt that existed prior to the revolution. This was not an overly popular decision with the church. To further control the church, the National Assembly issued the Civil Constitution of the Clergy. This document placed the church below the state in the overall hierarchy of power. To put the loyalties of the divided clergy to the tes... ... found in Aspects of Western Civilization, 180. 7 Child Labor as found in Aspects of Western Civilization, 130. 8 Child Labor as found in Aspects of Western Civilization, 130. 9 Marx, Karl and Fiedrich Engels. The Communist Manifestoà ® as found in Aspects of Western Civilization, 149. 10 Marx and Engels. The Communist Manifesto as found in Aspects of Western Civilization, 150. 11 Owen, Robert. Utopian Socialism as found in Aspects of Western Civilization, 148. 12 Mazzini, Guiseppe. The Duties of Man as found in Aspects of Western Civilization, 166. 13 Mazzini, Guiseppe. The Duties of Man as found in Aspects of Western Civilization, 166. 14 Mazzini, Guiseppe. The Duties of Man as found in Aspects of Western Civilization, 165. 15 Mazzini, Guiseppe. The Duties of Man as found in Aspects of Western Civilization, 165.