Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck †Main Character Essay

In the book Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, the main character is faced with an extremely difficult situation and decision. George Milton ends up killing Lennie Smalls, the man who he had been traveling with for years. He is forced to kill Lennie for his own good. It is arguable that George had selfish reasons for the murder but Lennie was his family, his companion. He would never do such a thing for personal gain. Lennie was a nice guy, and he never meant any harm. However, he always ended up getting into trouble or doing â€Å"bad things†. All of this often angered George, who fantasizes about what he could have been doing if Lennie weren’t weighing him down. For example, when the men were working in Weed, Lennie had them hiding in an irrigation ditch overnight because he frightened a woman. He gripped on to her dress, giving her the impression that he was trying to hurt her. Lennie of course didn’t mean any harm, he just enjoyed petting soft things. All of the inconveniences to George would give the impression that Mr. Milton would actually want Lennie dead. This was not the case. George cared for Lennie like he was family. The promise he made with Lennie’s Aunt Clara is just what brought them together. This can be seen when George and Lennie talk about their dream, Lennie says â€Å"because I got you to look after me, and you got me to look after you, and that’s why†(14). At the end of the novel, George is left with only two choices: let Lennie be tortured and killed by the other men, or kill him on his own†¦ a quick and painless death. Of course he does not want Lennie to suffer, so he does it on his own. And it clearly was not easy. The quote from the book â€Å"George raised the gun and his hand shook, and he dropped his hand to the ground again†(105) further supports this. George’s shaking hand proves how difficult it was to let go of a long time friend. Slim is one of the few people who understand their relationship. He was the only one who George confided in telling about what happened in Weed. At the very end, after the shooting, Slim says to George â€Å"You hadda, George. I swear you hadda†(107). Slim knows what a hard decision it was for George to go through with such a terrible task, but it had to be done. They both knew that poor Lennie would have otherwise suffered through the torture and slow death brought about by Curley. The character George Milton from the book Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck was not selfish. Any reason he had for the killing of Lennie was definitely not devoted to himself, but instead out of care and love for his friend. Both mean often spoke of how lonely it was to live the life of a rancher. So Lennie’s being as George’s companion and basically family overruled any want that George would ever have to hurt him. The death brought about to Lennie for his own good.

Diabetes Mellitus Syndrome Chronic Hyperglycemia Health And Social Care Essay

Diabetess mellitus was described more than 2000 old ages ago, one time regarded as a individual entity disease impacting persons of higher socio economic strata but now even the person of lower economic strata are besides affected. It is a disease characterized by a province of hyperglycaemia ensuing from diversenesss of etiologies, environmental and familial playing jointly. By definition, diabetes mellitus is a syndrome characterized by chronic hyperglycaemia and perturbation of saccharides, protein and fat metamorphosis associated with absolute or comparative lack in insulin secernment and action. Harmonizing to WHO, there are two chief types of diabetes mellitus ie insulin dependant diabetes mellitus ( type I ) and non insulin dependant diabetes mellitus ( type II ) . Type II diabetes mellitus is a syndrome holding heterogenous and is associated with hazard of figure of complication like neurological, cardiovascular, nephritic, optic and musculoskeletal jobs. Out of these neurological and cardiovascular systems are normally affected. Diabetess is systemic upset of energy metamorphosis in which hyperglycaemia is the cellular opposition to the consequence of insulin or both. Diabetes affects both the cardinal and peripheral nervous system. Diabetic neuropathies are a household of nervus upset caused by diabetes. Peoples with diabetes can develop nervus harm throughout the organic structure. About 60 to 70 per centum of people with diabetes have some signifier of neuropathy. Peoples with diabetes can develop nerve jobs at any clip, but hazard rises with age and longer continuance of diabetes for more than 5 old ages. They appear to be more common in people who have jobs commanding their blood glucose besides called blood sugar. Type II diabetes is the most common signifier of diabetes and normally appears in center aged grownups. Approximately 60-70 % of type II persons develop diabetic neuropathy. It is frequently associated with fleshiness and may be delayed or controlled with diet and exercising. Diabetic neuropathy appears to be more common in people over 45 – 55 old ages of age. Causes: – Prolonged exposure to high blood sugar ( glucose ) can damage delicate nervus fibres, doing diabetic neuropathy. High blood glucose interferes with the ability of the nervousnesss to convey signals. It besides weakens the walls of the little blood vass that supply the nervousnesss with O and foods. Metabolic factors, such as high blood glucose, long continuance of diabetes and perchance low degrees of insulin. Neurovascular factors, taking to damage to the blood vass that carry O and foods to nervousnesss. Autoimmune factors that cause redness in nervousnesss. Clinical characteristics: – Functional instability Deep hurting most normally in the pess and legs Numbness Muscle failing Loss of sense of warm or cold Based on this Clinical characteristic that is functional instability, capable were evaluated with berg balance graduated table, incorporating 14 balance undertakings. Balance preparation to be an effectual agencies of forestalling falls in patients with diabetic neuropathy.1.1 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEMThis is a survey on the effectivity of balance exercising in bettering balance in patients with diabetic neuropathy.1.2 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDYTo happen out the effectivity of balance exercising in diabetic neuropathy patients1.3 NEED AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDYDiabetic neuropathy or nervus harm is a reasonably common diabetes related complication, approximately 60 % of individuals with diabetes have some grade of neuropathy and it is portion of regular tests and showings in individuals with diabetes about all individuals with diabetes will finally hold some signifier of neuropathy. Complication from neuropathy can run from mild to severe symptoms can include buzzing, firing o r prickling paraesthesia in the pess and increased hazard of falling. In this survey Berg balance graduated table was used to mensurate balance by measuring the public presentation of functional undertakings. This survey measure the effectivity of balance exercising to better balance in patients with diabetic neuropathy.1.4 HYPOTHESISNULL HYPOTHESISThere is no important difference in giving balance exercising to diabetic neuropathy patient.ALTERNATIVE HYPOTHESISThere is important difference in giving balance exercising to diabetic neuropathic patient.1.5 OPERATIONAL DEFINITIONSDIABETIC NEUROPATHY:Diabetic neuropathies are a household of nervus upsets that are associated with diabetes mellitus. These conditions are thought to ensue from diabetic micro vascular hurt affecting little blood vass that supply nervousnesss. Neuropathy is a nervus upset that consequences in deformation of nervus map.TYPE II DIABETES:Diabetess mellitus type II once called non insulin dependant diabetes mellitus or grownup oncoming diabetes is a upset that is characterized by high blood glucose in the context of insulin opposition and comparative insulin lack. It is a chronic disease characterized by high degrees of sugar in the blood. It develops when your organic structure does non react right to insulin.Balances:The ability to aline organic structure sections against gravitation to keep or travel the organic structure ( centre of mass ) within the available base of support without falling.2.REVIEW OF LITERATUREa ) Reappraisal of literature related to diabetic neuropathyRENUKA DHARMADHIKARI ( 2007 )Mellitus is a common disease in people with about 50 % of type 2 diabetic patients being over 45 to 55 old ages of age. Insulin opposition is common in people, with big Numberss besides have impaired insulin secernment. Exercise with a peculiar accent on balance and stableness is an of import constituent of the direction and intervention of diabetic neuropathy patients.D. FEEDLE, G. CUCINOTTA, DA GREENE ( 2005 )A common complication of diabetics called neuropathy was determined in diabetic patients recruited from 109 out diabetic clinics. An i ncreased consciousness of the high prevalence of neuropathy can take to early curative intercession and possible bar of ulterior neuropathic complication such as infection and pes ulcer.ALI CIMBIZ, OZGE ( 2004 )Diabetic neuropathy disturbed particularly the balance on the dominant leg. Done with 60 voluntary grownups of both sexes from Kuhatya, Turkey were divided in to two groups. A type 2 diabetic neuropathic group ( DG ) and a non diabetic control group ( CG ) . The CG was selected to fit the diabetic features such as age, organic structure mass and sex. Standing on dominant, non dominant leg and functional range were used for the appraisal.STEFANO BALDUCCIAN, GIAN LUCA, LEOLCA PARISIC ( 2004 )Exercise preparation can modify the natural history of diabetic neuropathy. This survey suggests for the first clip that long clip exercising preparation can forestall the oncoming or modify the natural history of diabetic neuropathy.MARK J BROWN, JOHN R. MARTIN, ARTHUR K, ASBURY ( 1996 )Di abetic patients whose neuropathy was characterized by hurting and autonomic disfunction with loss of balance and saving of musculus stretch physiological reactions.YASUDA H DYCK P ( 1987 )Hypothesized that neuropathy consequences from diseased developments in the little vass in diabetes by the observation of thickener of the walls of endoneurial capillaries in the nervus of diabetic patients as a consequence of an accretion of periodic Acid Schiff.B ) Reappraisal of literature related to balance and diabetic neuropathyANN V. SCHWARTZ AND TERESA A. HILLIER ( 2001 )Peoples with diabetic had increased hazard of falling in their survey conducted in patients with diabetic neuropathy. Postural stableness is the of import factor to keep the balance which reduces the hazard of autumn. Diabetic neuropathy topics may lose their Centre of force per unit area information for commanding postural sway in stance stage of pace.HORAK FBB, DICKSTERIN R AND PETERCA R.J. ( 1998 )Concluded that diabetic patients with neuropathy show higher scope and root mean square value compared with those of control topics and diabetic patients with out neuropathy quiet standing balance was investigated in 24 diabetic patients with or with out neuropathy with eyes opened and eyes closed.DANIK LAFOND, HELENE CORIVEA AND FRANCIOS PRINCE ( 1998 )Motor schemes at the mortise joint articulation are altered in diabetic neuropathy patients in his work subjected for postural control mechanism during quiet standing in patients with diabetic neuropathy.BEVERLEIGH H PIEPERSA ( 1996 )Many as one in two people with type 2 diabetes finally develops a status of chronic nervus harm in their pess known as diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic are at greater hazards for falls when they have fewer centripetal inputs to counterbalance for the loss of experiencing in their pess. Closing your eyes, or walking a across a dark room will ensue in more falls. Even standing on one pes is harder for a diabetic to make with their eyes closed, but easier if eyes are unfastened.TABASSOM GHANAVATI, ALI ASGHAR ARASTOO: ( 1995 )Diabetic neuropathy patients seems to do postural instability which may impact quality of maps and activities of day-to-day life of these patients.ROTHWELL ( 1994 )Ocular vestibular and proprioceptive subsystem response to somewhat different perturbation in balance. The visuo spinal system controls both inactive and faster inputs with proprioceptive system which is besides Sensitive to faster stimulation.LORD ET.AL ( 1994 )A survey in Australia reported that hapless balance is a factor in the causal tract between diabetes and increase hazard of falling. Thus the persons with diabetes had increased organic structure sway.degree Celsius ) Review of literature related to consequence of exercising programme on balance upsetEMILY SPLICHAL: ( 1996 )Diabetic neuropathy causes loss of distal strength and esthesis. Research has shown that diabetics with neuropathy are 15 times more likely to descri be falling or faltering in a one twelvemonth period. Research has proven balance preparation to be an effectual agencies of forestalling falls in patient with diabetic neuropathy. All balance exercising can be done in a patient place with small or no equipment.RICHARDSON J.K, SANDMAN D, VELA S.A ( 1995 )Focused exercising regimen improves Clinical steps of balance in patients with diabetic neuropathy. Participants are 20 topics with diabetes mellitus and diagnostically confirmed patient. Ten subjects underwent a 3 hebdomad intercession exercising regimen designed to increase quickly available distal strength and balance. The other 10 topics performed a control exercising regimen. The intercession topics but non the control subjects, showed important betterment in all 3 clinical steps of balance that is impedal stance clip, Functional range and tandem stance clip.vitamin D ) Review of literature related to berg balance graduated tableTRINA SMITH ( 2005 )Berg Balance Scale used to qua ntify the balance of patients with diabetic neuropathy. Twenty one female and five males were selected. Participants completed each balance trial one time during 2 testing Sessionss for that inter rates dependability was good for the BBS. The balance trial showed moderate to good dependability for this population. The BBS appear to be valid steps of motor ability to keep balance.GATEV ( 1999 )Balance trials have been developed and presented to obtain appropriate information of balance measuring. The choice of mensurating clip and stance conditions is indispensableALEXANDER ( 1996 )Balance trial have been developed and presented to obtain appropriate information of balance capablenesss during standing. Functional balance graduated tables are easy to execute and suitable for daily clinical usage that give more elaborate information about balance.BEIG ETAL ( 1995 )Berg Balance Scale in patients with damage of balance. It is a staff completed assessment graduated table of ability to kee p balance either statistically or while executing assorted functional motions to assist do determinations about the patients equilibrate degree, comprises 14 discernible undertakings common to every twenty-four hours life.3. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY3.1 REASEARCH DESIGNThis survey belongs to experimental design.3.2 Variables USED IN THE STUDY3.2.1 Independent variablesBalance exercising Medical intervention3.2.2 Dependent variableBalance3.3 Setting OF THE STUDY:Physiotherapy Rehabilitation Centre, Kannur3.4 CRITERIA FOR SELECTIONInclusion standardsDiabetess with a continuance of more than 5 old ages Type 2 diabetes with diagnosed neuropathy Persons between the age group of 45-55 old ages were selected. Both males and females wee included in this survey. Patients who reported atleast one autumn in the past 6 monthsExclusion standardsLower appendage amputation Patients with inability to walk without any assistive devices Patients with musculoskeletal damage Patients with neurological damage Diabetess with any other systemic engagement3.5 SAMPLE POPULATION30 Capable and 15 in each group3.6 METHOD OF SAMPLINGRandom Sampling Technique.3.7 METHODOLOGY30 Subjects are selected and divided in to two groups The process was explained to subject. GROUP A: Balance exercising with medical intervention GROUP B: Medical intervention3.8 Materials USEDRuler Two standard chairs ( one with a arm rests, one without ) Foot stool Stop ticker or carpus ticker Berg balance graduated table Outcome measuring by utilizing Berg Balance graduated table3.9 DURATION OF THE STUDY:Four hebdomads3.10 ProcedureThe topics were given balance exercising like inactive and dynamic exercising for five yearss for four hebdomads. Entire intervention clip was 60 proceedingss /session/ twenty-four hours with 5 minute remainder after every 15 proceedingss.Balance exercisingImprove balance by executing simple balance exercising. The individual leg stance is a really effectual exercising for bettering balance. This exercising can be modified balance stableness. The exercisings are categorized in to two different types inactive and dynamic of balance preparation.Inactive exercisingToe base Tandum base One – legged base Heel baseDynamic exercising in walkingToe walk Tandum forward walk Heel walk Tandum backward walk1. Toe base†¢ Stand about one and a half pess off from the counter. †¢ Raise up every bit high as possible on the balls of your pess. Your pess should be shoulder width apart. †¢ Try to remain every bit still as possible. Make non travel your pess around to keep balance. †¢ Hold the toe base for 10 seconds. Rest. Repeat 5 times.2. Tandem Stand†¢ Stand about one and a half pess off from the counter. †¢ Place one pes straight in forepart of the other pes so that the heel of one pes is merely touching the toes of the other pes. †¢ Try to remain every bit still as possible. Make non travel your pess around to keep balance. †¢ Hold the tandem base for 10 seconds. Rest. Repeat 5 times.3. One-legged BaseStand about one and a half pess off from the counter. Slowly lift one leg off of the floor, while keeping your balance with the other leg. Try to remain every bit still as possible. Make non travel your pes around to keep balance. Keep the one-legged base for 10 seconds. Rest. Repeat with other leg 5 times.4. Heel StandStand about one and a half pess off from the counter. Raise up every bit high as possible on the heels of your pess. Your pess should be shoulder width apart. Try to remain every bit still as possible. Make non travel your pess around to keep balance. Keep the heel base for 10 seconds. Rest. Repeat 5 times.Dynamic exercising1. Toe walki »? †¢ Go to one terminal of a hall and easy raise up every bit high as you can onto your toes. Walk down the hall on your toes. †¢ When you reach the other side, come down onto your pess and stand usually. †¢ Rest. Repeat 5 times.2. i »? Tandem Forward WalkTravel to one terminal of a hall and topographic point one pes in forepart of the other so that the heel of one pes touches the toes of the other pes. Walk down the hall in a tandem walk. It is of import that with each measure the heel of one pes touches the toes of the other. If you make a error, merely topographic point one pes in forepart of the other and go on down the hall. When you reach the other side stand usually. Rest. Repeat 5 times.3. Heel WalkTravel to one terminal of a hall and easy raise up every bit high as you can onto your heels. Walk down the hall on your heels. When you reach the other side come down onto your pess and stand usually. Rest. Repeat 5 times.4. i »? Tandem Backward WalkTravel to one terminal of a hall and topographic point one pes behind the other pes so that the heel of one pes touches the toes of the other pes. Walk down the hall in a backward tandem walk. It is of import that with each measure the toes on one pes touch the heel of the other. If you make a error, merely topographic point one pes behind the other and go on down the hall. When you reach the other side, stand usually. Rest. Repeat 5 times.i »?3.11 Measurement ToolBERG BALANCE SCALEThe Berg Balance Scale ( BBS ) was developed to mensurate balance among people with damage in balance map by measuring the public presentation of functional undertakings. It is a valid instrument used for rating of the effectivity of intercessions and for quantitative descriptions of map in clinical pattern and research. The BBS has been evaluated in several dependability surveies. 14 points scale designed to mensurate balance of the grownup in a clinical scene.4. DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPREATIONThe information collected was subjected to partner off ‘t ‘ trial separately for group A and group B utilizing expressions.Formula 1vitamin D = ? d/n Where, vitamin D = difference between pre trial and station trial values vitamin D = is the average value of vitamin D n = is the figure of topicsFormula 2: ( d-d ) 2 ( n -1 ) Standard divergence SD =Formula 3:Standard Error ( S.E ) = SD N ‘t ‘ calculated value = vitamin D S.EFormula 4:‘t ‘ cal = vitamin D S.E Where, t cal is the ‘t ‘ calculated value dI†¦ = mean of divergence n = entire figure of topics s = criterion divergence d? = amount of squared divergence4. Independent ‘t ‘ trialWhere S == Mean of Control group = Mean of Experimental group n1 = Number of Subjects in Control group n2 = Number of Subjects in Experimental group S = Standard Deviation Datas were collected from 30 patients analysed utilizing paired ‘t ‘ trial and Independent ‘t ‘ trial to happen out within group difference. All information was analysed utilizing SPSS version 10.0.Table 1DESCRIPTIVE DATA OF EXPERIMENTAL GROUPS.NoAgeYearSexual activityBerg Balance ScalePre-testPost trial1 48 Meter 37 47 2 50 Meter 38 45 3 46 F 36 46 4 45 F 36 45 5 49 Meter 38 47 6 48 F 35 46 7 49 Meter 37 48 8 50 Meter 37 47 9 48 F 39 48 10 48 Meter 38 47 11 47 Meter 36 46 12 50 Meter 35 46 13 49 F 38 48 14 46 Meter 35 46 15 49 Meter 39 47TABLE-11DESCRIPTIVE DATA OF CONTROL GROUPS.NoAgeYearSexual activityBerg Balance ScalePre-testPost trial1 47 Meter 38 41 2 46 Meter 38 42 3 46 Meter 36 41 4 47 F 37 37 5 48 Meter 35 37 6 49 Meter 39 42 7 48 F 39 42 8 48 F 38 40 9 50 Meter 36 39 10 49 Meter 37 40 11 46 Meter 38 41 12 45 F 37 40 13 47 Meter 36 39 14 47 F 39 42 15 49 F 37 41TABLE – II1DEMOGRAPHIC PRESENTATION OF SEXContentControlEXPERIMENTALMale 9 10 Female 6 5 Entire 15 15GRAPH- ISexual activity WISE DISTRIBUTION IN CONTROL GROUP AND EXPERIMENTAL GROUPThe above saloon graph shows, in control group 9 males and 6 females were selected ; and in experimental group 10 males and 5 females were selected.Table FourPRE TEST MEAN AND STD. DEVIATION OF BBS CONTROL AND EXPERIMENTAL GROUPGroup N ( No. of Subjects ) Mean STD. Deviation Control 15 37.33 1.234 EXPERIMENTAL 15 36.93 1.387Table VoltPOST TEST MEAN AND STD. DEVIATION OF BBS IN CONTROL AND EXPERIMENTAL GROUPGroup N ( No. of Subjects ) Mean STD. Deviation Control 15 40.27 1.67 EXPERIMENTAL 15 46.66 1.051GRAPH-IIMEAN DIFFERENCE OF BBS IN CONTROL AND EXPERIMENTAL GROUPInterpretation OF DATA:Statistical ANALYSIS OF BERG BALANCE SCALE IN CONTROL GROUP USING PAIRED ‘t ‘ TrialTable — VIGROUP CONTROL Mean South dakota T DF Sig t value Bulletin board system PRE 37.3 1.234 10.33 14 2.1447 Post 40.27 1.67Interpretation-Berg Balance Scale in control group-Above tabular array shows the mean of the pre trial informations for the control group as 37.3+_1.234 ( SD ) and post trial value as 40.27 ±1..67 ( SD ) . The deliberate T value is 10.33. It indicates that there is important difference between pretest and station values of Berg Balance graduated table in control group.GRAPH-IIIMEAN DIFFERENCE AND STANDARD DEVIATION OF BBS IN CONTROL GROUPInterpretation of informationsStatistical analysis of Berg Balance Scale in experimental group utilizing paired ‘t ‘ trialTABLE – SevenGroupMeanS.D‘t ‘dfExperimental Pre trial 36.67 1.54 27.04 14 Post trial 46.13 1.45 Interpretation – Berg balance graduated table Above tabular array shows the mean of pre trial informations for the experimental group as 36.67 ± 1.54 ( SD ) and post trial value as 46.13 ±1.45 ( S.D ) the deliberate ‘t ‘ value is 27.04 which is greater than that of table value. It indicates that there is important difference between pre trial and station trial values of Berg balance graduated table in experimental group.i »?GRAPH- IVMEAN DIFFERENCE AND STANDARD DEVIATION OF BBS IN EXPERIMENTAL GROUPSTASTICAL ANALYSIS OF BERG BALANCE SCALE OF PRE TEST VALUE USING INDEPENDENT T TrialTable EightEXPERIMENTAL AND CONTROL GROUP PRE TEST VALUE Mean South dakota T DF Bulletin board system EXP 36.93 1.39 1.83 28 CTRL 37.33 1.23INTERPRETATION-BERG BALANCE SCALECONTROL AND EXPERIMENTAL GROUP PRETEST VALUEAbove TABLE shows the mean of pre trial informations for experimental group as 36.933  ±1.39 ( SD ) the deliberate T value is 1.8310 and command group mean 37.33 ±1.3810 and calculated T value is 1.8310 for both experimental and control group. It indicates that there is no important difference between experimental and control group.GRAPH-VMEAN DIFFERENCE AND STANDARD DEVIATION OF BBS IN EXPERIMENTAL AND CONTROL GROUP USING INDEPENDENT‘T ‘ TrialSTASTICAL ANALYSIS OF BERG BALANCE SCALEPOST TEST VALUE USING INDEPENDENT T TrialTABLE – NineEXPERIMENTAL AND CONTROL GROUP POST TEST VALUE Mean South dakota T df Bulletin board system EXP 46.6 1.0521 12.6626 28 CTRL 40.27 1.6701INTERPRETATION- BERG BALANCE SCALECONTROL AND EXPERIMENTAL GROUP POST TEST VALUEAbove tabular array shows the mean of station trial informations for experimental group as 46.6  ±1.058387 ( SD ) the deliberate T value is 12.6626 and command group mean 40.27 ±1.6701 and calculated T value is 12.6626 for both experimental and control group. It indicates that there is a important difference in experimental group value than control groupGRAPH-VIMEAN DIFFERENCE AND STANDARD DEVIATION OF BBS IN POST TEST VALUES OF EXPERIMENTAL AND CONTROL GROUP USING INDEPENDENT ‘T ‘ Trial5. ResultEffectiveness of Control Group ( Medical intervention ) While comparing the pre-test and station trial values of control group utilizing Paired ‘t ‘ trial, the deliberate T value is 10.33 whereas the tabular array value is 2.145, it states that there is important difference between the pre-test and post-test values of control group. When comparing the average values of both, the station trial mean value is 1.67 which are greater than the pre trial mean value 1.234. Hence it confirms that there is a important betterment group. Effectiveness of Experimental Group ( Balance exercising with medical intervention ) While comparing the pre-test and station trial values of experimental group utilizing Paired't ‘ trial, the deliberate value is 31.8590646 whereas the tabular array value is 2.145. Since the deliberate value is more than the critical value, it states that there is important difference between the pre-test and post-test values of experimental group. When comparing the average values of both, the post-test mean value 46.6 which is greater than the pre-test mean value 36.933. Hence it confirms that there is a important betterment in post-test experimental group than pre trial experimental group.6. DiscussionDiabetess Mellitus is a Chronic status which encroaches about all the systems in the organic structure. Diabetic neuropathy is a complication of long standing diabetes, which affects nervousnesss of the organic structure. Diabetic neuropathy can impact all the tissues and the variety meats of the organic structure. Approximately about 60-70 % of the people with diabetes suffer from neuropathy and the oncoming can be at any clip in life. The incidence of neuropathy in diabetic patients increases with the period of diabetes. This survey was an experimental attack, which studied the effectivity of balance exercising in diabetic neuropathy patients. The result was measured utilizing Berg Balance Scale. It has been shown to a valid and dependable tool for the measuring of balance by measuring the public presentation of functional undertakings. The control group was given medical intervention and the patient besides given balance exercising in experimental group. Harmonizing to Shahin Goharpey, diabetic neuropathy consequences in functional instability which cause these patients to danger of falling during activities of day-to-day life and becomes more terrible as the badness of neuropathy aggravates. Balance exercising improves clinical steps of balance in patients with diabetic neuropathy. Loss of force per unit area sensitiveness was independently associated with the hazard of falling more than one time a twelvemonth and histories for 3- 6 % of relationship between diabetes and falling. Based on above survey, the present survey concluded that balance preparation to be an effectual agencies of cut downing frequence of autumn in patients with diabetic neuropathy.MechanismThe mechanism by which balance preparation affect the balance of diabetic neuropathy is due to, 1. During exercise whole organic structure O ingestion additions in the musculuss. 2. Addition in the concentration of Na+ / K+ adenosine triphosphatase ( ATPase ) pumps. 3. Exercise works to cut down insulin opposition which lowers blood sugar degrees. So heavy insulin opposition will set less strain on the organic structure to do insulin. 4. Exercise is helpful in keeping strength, mobility, map and besides provides stableness7. DecisionThe survey concludes that balance exercising seemed to be good in bettering balance and thereby cut downing the frequence of autumn in patients with diabetic neuropathy.LIMITATIONS AND SUGGESTIONSRestrictionStudy was conducted for a short period of clip. The survey assessed merely short term advancement of the patients. Since survey clip was short merely limited sample since could be considered for the survey.SuggestionTo set up the efficaciousness of the intervention a big sample size survey is required. To do the consequence more valid a long term survey may be carried out. The same survey can be done by modifying the exercising by increasing the complexness. The same survey can be done by increasing the exercising by its repeats. The same survey can be carried out in males and females individually.

ANALYSIS AND COMPANY PROFILE of Hewlett Packard

ANALYSIS AND COMPANY PROFILE of Hewlett Packard On 1 January 1939, there are Stanford University graduates which are Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard, they formed their partnership and decided to start a business. They decide the company’s name with a coin toss. They made a historic commitment to innovation when they founded HP in a garage. The first product they created was an audio oscillator used by Walt Disney to make Fantasia. For over 70 years since then, HP has continued innovating and helping people, businesses, and communities worldwide use technology to improve their businesses and lives. In 1957, the company goes to public. In keeping with Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard’s respect for workers, HP takes the then-unusual step of giving stock grants to employees. The growing company begins building on the site that will become its corporate headquarters in Palo Alto, California. HP also embarks on a path toward globalization, establishing manufacturing and marketing operations in Europe. In the 1980s, HP becomes a major player in the computer with a full range of computers, from desktop machines to portables to powerful minicomputers. HP also links computers with its electronic instruments and medical and analytical products, making them faster and more powerful. HP makes its entry into the printer market with the launch of inkjet printers and laser printers that connect to personal computers. HP’s high-quality, inexpensive inkjet printers spell the end of dot-matrix printers. In 1984, HP debuts the LaserJet printer line, goes on to become the company’s most successful single product line ever. The quality and reliability of HP’s printers make HP a highly recognizable brand by both consumers and businesses. HP focuses on simplifying technology experiences for all of its customers, from individual consumers to the largest businesses at the beginning of the 21st century. HP grows to become the world’s largest technology company with a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure. Later in the decade, a steady stream of acquisitions increases HP’s influence in the software, personal computing and printing markets, and in 2007, HP achieves $100 billion in revenue. In 2009, after the acquisition of EDS, HP moves up to No. 9 on the Fortune 500 list. GENERAL PEST The PEST analysis is the macro-environment or defined as external environment in business point of view. It has been affirmed to be important strategic tools to assess the market growth or decline and it is also a business measurement tool to analyze the external impact of the strategic development of a business. The factors of the PEST are Political, economic, social and technological. These elements are likely to impact your future business. It is drag in an organization considering of the external environment before the project is began. PEST analysis is very simple to complete, is a good material for the workshop session and it is also an effective brainstorming session. Political environment, including a country’s social system, the nature of the ruling party, the Government’s guidelines, policies, laws and so on. Different countries have different social nature, different social system of the organization have different restrictions on activities and requirements. Even if the social system is constant of the country, due to distinct of the ruling party, the government policy features and influence of policy orientation of the Organization is changing at different stages. There are several important political and legal variables which are the nature of ruling party, political system, economic system, tax policy, trade and tariff controls, social and employment legislation.

Policy brief Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Policy brief - Essay Example There is an acute shortage of nursing faculty across all the states in the US as Fox (2013) reports "Shortage of professors is curbing the capacity of nursing schools to crank out graduates with advanced degrees†. More baccalaureate degree-holder nurses are required from the view point of achieving higher enrollees for doctoral programs as well. IOM say that almost half the nursing workforce is likely to retire in couple of years. The proportion of ageing population over age 65 is steadily going up creating further strain on quality care. Reforms in healthcare system will bring millions of people under healthcare system requiring more nurses to provide needed healthcare in hospitals. It is important to note that the US Army, Air force, and Navy need nurses with baccalaureate degree. Even the Veterans Health Administration too needs nurses with a baccalaureate degree for further advancement in the job. According to Lavis et al. (2009), it is important to know whether increasing the proportion of nurses with a baccalaureate degree to 80 percent by 2020 is an important issue for policy makers in the process to enhance healthcare for people. This issue is highly relevant in the sense that baccalaureate degree-holder nurses by 2020 in the US is important for several reasons that include changing demographics where in proportion of aged above 65 is steadily increasing due to rising age at birth in the US and secondly the goal is to enhance quality care for its citizens. Baccalaureate degree nurses (BSN) play an important role in preventive care. Being trained in public community health and management the BSN nurses are more suited for several functions that include manager, patient educator, public health, discharge coordinator. Obama administration lays a special emphasis on preventive measures and Public Health Departments are provided increased funding support from the administration. The BSN-prepared public health nurses are most suited for

Project Management Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Project Management - Case Study Example The firm sold industry equipment through personal contacts and personal relationships of the top end staff. When the CRM system was decided to be licensed, there were huge arguments about its necessity since such a system would not be suited for selling industry equipment. However the decision was made by the high-ups and the license was bought. The implementation of this system was not as successful as was expected because there was no alignment between the business objectives and the technological objectives. The results the top-end of the management wanted to achieve could only be achieved up to 50% and the huge investment became a waste. If a more customized and industry usable system had been purchased like a Supply Chain System or an Enterprise Resource Plan, then the results would have been much better. (Jessup & Valacich, 2007) The project aimed at involving the industry clients to communicate through the CRM system with the organization telling them about the quantity they want to purchase, any customizations they require and the time of delivery etc. Orders from the clients came in bulk and were quite infrequent. Managing these orders had been easy in the past and it was being manually without any problems. Since no boom in the industry was expected, this project was also considered as not being able to utilize its full potential. The problem in this case was the poor judgment of the scenario at hand by the top management. They wanted to automate the ordering and delivery systems however the technological side of the CRM could do much more than automating these two functions. The Microsoft Dynamics CRM 3.0 was also able to maximize the marketing capabilities of the organization. In this case, marketing wasn't the objective and no one had ever thought about marketing the industry equipment into a brand name. The company had never put up nay ads and didn't even have a marketing department. (Microsoft, 2008) The CRM 3.0 also helps to improve the customer relationships with the clients. The company got business from personal contacts and generating goodwill and relationships wasn't really a problem. Therefore this objective from the technology side of the new system was also negated. (Microsoft, 2008) Lastly the CRM system empowered the users for the entire sales cycles. In some sense this was the only objective the organization wanted to achieve from the new system. However this module was also sparingly used by the organization due to infrequent orders. (Microsoft, 2008) The project should have been aligned with the objectives the organization was trying to achieve only then the IT team should have been involved to give ideas to suggest a solution for the problem at hand. In this case the IT department would most probably have suggested that the current business model of manual work was best until more business was acquired. The problem that we see here is not with the implementation of the project, rather with the thinking of the high-end managers. (Morgan, 2002) According to Livingston (2004), one of the drivers for mismanagement and misalignment of organizational goals to technological goals is the varying view of business executives on the role or affects that IT integration could have on their companies. In this case the executives were thinking that profound results would be

Introductory Computer Usage 1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Introductory Computer Usage 1 - Essay Example The other fact of the matter is that people are rarely aware of the technological advancements and their security concerns. Although IEEE has launched WPA and then WPA2 as the new security protocols, people seldom use them. WPA2 has proved hardest to be cracked, still old algorithms are preferred over it. The table shows the percentage of the people (taken from survey by Deloitte, India) who use secure and insecure wireless medium. Besides, if the new technology gets implemented, it slows down system performance. Internet is full of ways to teach anyone sniffing techniques and the new tools of Microsoft and Linux which are available on internet without any charge facilitates it. Many of such problems occur due to inappropriate usage of wireless users. Hence, it has become the need of the hour to reduce more than fifty percent of security risks by properly following the instructions associated with it. Must have heard about the many of u have a blue tooth or shall I say Bluetooth. I am sure many of my readers have this facility. Your mobile phones, PCs, in academic institutes and in the offices, Bluetooth comes in very handy. But what it actually is? It is freedom form cables. Now, we can carry our data anywhere without any botheration. Bluetooth wireless technology has fast become one most popular technology. It shows interconnection between computers, mobile phones and PDAs. The Bluetooth standard specifies wireless operation in the 2.45 GHz band and supports data rate up to 720Kbps. The designing is done for low power consumption at a short range with different power classes for multiple ranges (1m, 10m and 100m). Now, the devices which weren’t possible to connect via a wire can be synchronized using Bluetooth, for example attaching a mobile phone to a car stereo. Data exchange this way is fast and convenient. There are three modes of security in Bluetooth; security mode1, security mode2 and security mode3. Bluetooth enabled mobile devices

Company report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Company report - Essay Example From manufacturing and installation of modern orbit presses till the repair, maintenance and troubleshooting of the presses as well. The Sizer is the innovation body of pellet manufacturing presses. The pellet manufacturing operations of the Sizer Ltd is competing with rivals, where the challenges are more enough to survive in industry. 1. Remit The boundary of this study is confined under management and financial factors to analyze. We will initially focus on the factors of SWOT analysis of the Sizer Ltd and the industrial factors facing by the firm. The Sizer Ltd dealing with two dimensions, first consists on the pellet manufacturing and supplying operations where the number of competitors are large whereas the Sizer is facilitating in three different large markets of the world. Next operation of this firm based on the engineering and technical support division, which provides the pellets manufacturing presses. In pellets presses industry, the Sizer is the global leader which innov ate this technology in mid-nineties. 2. Background of Sizer Ltd History of Sizer Ltd consists on the combination of engineering innovation as well as the quality manufacturing of pellets. A British pioneer engineer established Sizer Ltd in 1899 in Hull, England. The first ever pallet manufacturing press was designed by the Albert Sizer, son of Sizer’s founder with the name and style of Cuber. ... The basic robust designs rapidly improve to meet the market requirements of quality efficiency and the cost effectiveness and become the familiar Orbit Pellet Press. Simultaneously, Sizer providing the wide range of pallet presses and the spare parts with technical supports which includes the maintenance and installation of presses. The most selling press of Sizer, Orbit presses is the most efficient more for manufacturing of pallets, the main characteristics of Orbit is easy for installation and adaptable for bespoke applications. This use in diverse industries like manufacturing of animal feed, charcoal briquetting, biomass, malting and flour millings. It has capacity from 200kg / hour to 10000kg / hour range availability which depends on material and type of manufacturing. Year 2008, the industry of pellet producing was sacrificing for the impacts of recession, which shows in Figure 2 that lower quantity of pellet manufacturing stoves sold and installed whereas, only boilers sold out by the Sizer because of barrier of new entry in industry but the only capacity enhancement through the boilers. (See Figure 2) 3. Method and Tool of Analysis We choose the SWOT as best analysis tool to identify the strength, weaknesses, threads and weaknesses of Sizer Ltd and the competitors as well. SWOT Analysis is the more frequently and easily understandable tool to identify the international factors of the firms which exhibit all the internal and external factors to understand the current position of the firm and the market or industry, furthermore, it helps to create the strategies of future to more stabilize the firm and achieve the organizational goals by capturing the

Christianty paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Christianty - Research Paper Example However, before one learns to accept Jesus, they may have been living in the ways of darkness. Jesus is the word, and him who receives the word in the Bible recognizes Jesus. This comes by learning the work of God and believing in that word. That word defines the character of a believer of Jesus and the followers of earthly possessions. As followers of Jesus Christians are expected to forsake the desires of the flesh and uphold the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Johnson 224). The practice may occur gradually as one gets to learn and understand the virtues of a Christian. For example, in his childhood Mark grew in an affluent background where he never lacked anything of substance in his life. However, some of his neighbors and friends grew in immense poverty where even the basic things seemed a luxury to them. Mark was so proud and looked down upon his friends. He treated them with a lot of contempt. Although he was born in a Christian family, Mark never took religion with a seriousness it deserved. His pride surpassed even the customs practices because he never respected even his elders. He could blatantly talk about his beautiful items such as clothes, shoes and other luxurious items that were in his possession. He bragged about his father’s wealth just to demean his colleagues. His friends felt envious of him and always listened to his boastful stories. More often he could pick a quarrel with anyone over anything only to warn his counterpart of the repercussions they would suffer if they dared touch him. He never forgave anyone he had argue d with even he knew he was in the wrong. He always desired to avenge against his colleagues (Witherington 72). Nevertheless, Christianity emphasizes on forgiveness and forbid anyone from taking revenge against the wrongs done by others (Clapper 41). Some of his friends were very kind and forgiving, so they always tried to talk to him and request him to humble himself. Some of his friends were very

Overview of a Luxury Fashion Brand Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Overview of a Luxury Fashion Brand - Essay Example This paper "Overview of a Luxury Fashion Brand" looks at one Burberry as a luxury brand that has been successful despite the challenges that have existed in the fashion market. In this paper an overview of Burberry is given based on its success in the industry. The brand has been outstanding and is defined by the Britishness, independent luxury positioning and heritage as well as history. Compared to other brands in the fashion industry such as Prada, Zara and Ralph Lauren, the brand has been doing fairly well. Burberry is a distinctive global luxury brand that was founded in 1856. The group has a British background. Over the years the company has built a strong and outstanding reputation for innovation, design, and craftsmanship. The group has much focus on outwear, best known for its trench coats. The company designs, produces as well as sell products under the Burberry brand. The company based in London sources its raw materials from UK and other external suppliers it forms networ k with. The content of marketing as well as marketing programs; analogue and digital, are internally designed to promote the brand and product features to the consumers. Being that its products are sold globally through proprietary retail shops as well as third party wholesale customers, the brand needs a strong fashion marketing strategy to counter the competition in the fashion world. Marketing is in fact one of the core corporate functions that keeps the brand at par. The brand has also embraced digital marketing.

Art history Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Art history - Essay Example orld styles of flattened figures and animorphed images combining the figures of animals and humans in different ways for different meanings to the ‘new’ world styles which included more humanism in expression and optical experience reflected in the art forms. By the time of the Romans, there was a much greater emphasis and development of naturalistic expression of form, including natural bodily movements, weight and strain. A comparison of the Grande Ludovisi Sarcophagus (The Ludovisi Battle) and the Dying Warrior from the Temple of Aphaia reveal both the similarities of cultural beliefs as well as the differences of emphasis of expression. Both the Grande Ludovisi Sarcophagus and the Dying Warrior present similar images of death and dying using marble as a base material, but they remain sharply different because of the scale of the individual figures as well as several of the smaller visual elements involved in each. Although separated by approximately 700 years, both the earlier Dying Warrior statue and the Ludovisi Sarcophagus represent mastery of sculptural art in different dimensions. Both of these works of art are presented in marble and each detail some sense of battle. The Ludovisi Sarcophagus can be seen to have been carved from a single block of marble that measured at least nine feet wide by five feet high and four and a half feet deep (â€Å"Art of the Roman Empire†, 2005). Of only slightly smaller scale overall, the Dying Warrior from the east pediment of the Temple of Aphaia measures just over six feet long. However there has been a great deal of discussion regarding just what the statue is truly made of. While some scholars say it is marble, others have suggested the statue was first created in poros, the native rock of the island on which the temple stands (George, 2001). In addition, a great deal of detail about this statue can still only be guessed at as several segments of the statue are missing, particularly the knee joint of the

Replacing a Legacy Application Essay Example for Free

Replacing a Legacy Application Essay â€Å"Because we live in a highly competitive and ever-changing world, at any given time most organizations are improving or replacing their information systems† (Romney Steinbart, 2012, p. 579). As an organization needs change due to increase competition, regulations, business growth and other reason and company needs to respond by also changing its system in order to meet the needs of the business. The need for changing to a new system helps the business because the new system has much more capabilities then the older system allowing the company to be able to perform business more efficient and effectively. The need for changing to a new system helps to eliminate flaws and system incompatibilities created by the old system. â€Å"A reliable information system is a necessity for all companies. Companies must properly maintain accounts and detailed records or face unnecessary costs. A well-devised accounting information system, which ensures relevant and reliable information is reported in financial statements, benefits every type of company† (Pettir Accounting, 2013). I believe that a company should change to new systems in order to keep up with technology and their competition. An updated â€Å"accounting information system can help businesses run better by providing timely information on internal operations† (Small Business-Chron, 2013). A company should consider their budget and because accounting information systems can be very expensive to purchase and maintain. Firms should make sure that they can afford purchasing an accounting information system and set realistic expectations. Firms should also make sure that they accounting information system has been through tested by performing simulation before the system goes live to avoid any potential problems that could cause firm time and money. Firms should also make sure that employees have been properly trained on how to use the new and/or updated accounting information system. (1) Potential Benefits One of the potential benefits associated with changing a new system is that its help increases a company’s competitive advantage. As technology increases and changes companies will need change its system in order improve and increase the quantity, quality, speed and accuracy of information. Also companies need to stay ahead of their competitor so any upgrade in technology that will provide a competitive edge is crucial for a company. This will also help to improve products and services, lower cost and to provide other competitive advantages. Secondly, another potential benefit associated with changing a new system is that is provides productivity gains. By having a system that can perform certain employee tasks reduces money spent on hiring and paying employees and also increases performance time. This also helps relieve employees of certain clerical tasks allowing them to focus on other important issues. Thirdly another benefit associated with changing a new system is it eliminates outdated systems†. System become old and need to be updated constantly in order for them to remain effective. The benefit of updating an outdated system results in better system capabilities and faster processing time. (1) Potential Risks One of the potential risks associated with changing a new system is how the employee will react to the change. Employee will either view the changes being made as good or bad depending on the individuals being affect by the system change. â€Å"Management view changes positively if it increases profits or reduces costs. Employees view the same change as bad if their jobs are terminated or adversely affected† (Romney Steinbart, 2012, p. 588). Employees who view the changes as bad will act out displaying aggression, projection or avoidance. All of these forms of resistance can result in decrease company performance, low morale and sabotage. Resistance usually takes places because of: fear, lack of top management support, negative experience with prior changes, lack of communication, disruptive nature of change, manner in which the change is introduced, person biases and emotions and personal characteristic and background. Managers can help minimize the risk of behavioral problems by electing a manager who can help rally, boost employee’s moral and encourage coworker to help and cooperate with the systems development. Secondly, the manager needs to involve anyone that is affected by the change in the development of the new system. Management should let employees offer suggestions and help in the decision making. Management needs to let employees know which feedbacks will be used and which will not be used and why. By doing this employees become more â€Å"knowledgeable, better trained, and more committed to using the system† (Romney Steinbart, 2012, p. 90). Thirdly management should effectively communicate with anyone who is going to be affected by the system change immediately. The employee should be told of the changes that are going to be made and the benefits the changes will provide to them. Lastly, management should help ease employee fears and stress by â€Å"addressing their concerns and provide assurance (to the extent possible) that job losses and responsibility shift will not occur† (Romney Steinbart, 2012, p. 590). Management should also reassure employees that they will be properly trained on how to use the system. Secondly, another potential risk associated with changing a new system is â€Å"employees are not properly trained†. Companies will sometimes take short-cut because of time and cost associated with training employee. This however can result in the company not being able to reach its expected benefits and return on its investments. Lack of employee training can also result in employees having to ask other employees who are experts in using the system for help thereby â€Å"decreasing productivity of coworkers and increasing company costs†(Romney Steinbart, 2012, p. 49). This threat however, can be reduced my companies providing employees with proper training, system documentation and procedural manuals for employees to use. Thirdly, another potential risk associated with changing a new system is â€Å"poor system planning†. Management sometimes may have unrealistic goals and expectations of what they want the system to do or the system may be too complex to under stand which can result in the system failing. In order to mitigate this threat management should set realistic goals and expectations. Management should prepare a feasibility analysis were they address the five aspects (economic, technical, legal, scheduling, and operational feasibility). Management should also prepare a system analysis in order to address the â€Å"current problems, the reason for the change, the proposed system’s objectives, and its anticipated benefits and costs† (Romney Steinbart, 2012, p. 590). Management should evaluate design alternative and have the steering committee to evaluate and chose the best decision that will meet the organization’s needs. Lastly, another potential risk associated with changing a new system is â€Å"not testing the system properly†. Poor system testing can be very costly for a company. Testing should be done in order to discover and eliminate problems as early on in the development process as possible. â€Å"The Gartner Group estimates that bugs discovered later in the SDLC cost 80% to 1,000% more to fix than those discovered earlier† (Romney Steinbart, 2012, p. 646). In order to reduce this threat companies should use debugging techniques in order to discover and eliminated problems. Companies should also test the system by using system testing techniques such as; walk-through, processing test data and acceptance tests. (2a) Purchase Software One of the advantages of the company choosing to purchase the software from Oracle and having it maintained by the company’s information system group is the company doesn’t have to worry about the risk of â€Å"loss of control† that could result from outsourcing its AIS system. The company is able to manage its system and data without the threat of having to worry about their losing its system and data. Secondly, another advantage of the company choosing to purchase the software from Oracle and having it maintained by the company’s information system group is increased service. Poor service can result if the company chose to outsource its AIS to Oracle. By the company housing its own AIS will result in the company be able to better respond to changes in organization. Lastly, another advantage of the company choosing to purchase the software from Oracle and having it maintained by the company’s information system group is flexibility. The company is under no contractual agreement so if at any time the company becomes dissatisfied with the product or needs to change products because of structural changes, the company can do so without consequences. If the company would have chosen to outsource its AIS to Oracle then the company would have to follow the terms and agreements stated in the contract or risk legal and costly consequences. One of the disadvantages of the company choosing to purchase the software from Oracle is risk of the software â€Å"not being flexible, easily maintained and user friendly-software. This can result in the company having to spend money in order to maintain the system and to keep it running efficiently. By purchasing a system that is not user friend will result in employee who will be resistance to use the system and time wasted trying to train employees on how to use the system. This threat can reduce by the company investigating and researching other companies that use the software and their feedback on the program. Secondly, another disadvantage of the company choosing to purchase the software from Oracle is the risk of the software not having adequate control capabilities. Software that doesn’t have adequate control capabilities can result in internal control threats that can cause the company money in time in order to correct. An example is the software the companies purchase for Oracle should not give accounts payable employees access to accounts receivables duties and vice versa. This threat can be reduce by the company performing tests on the software in order to make sure that the software is error free and that the controls are working properly. Lastly, another disadvantage of the company choosing to purchase the software from Oracle is the risk of the software not meeting all mandatory specifications. By the software not being able to meet all of the companies need will result in the company having to waste money in order to modify the software or to purchase software that will meet the company’s needs. This threat can be reduced by the company evaluating all system proposals and selecting the best system. The company should compare the software with the â€Å"system requirements in order to determine if all mandatory requirements are met and how many desirable requirements are met† (Romney Steinbart, 2012, p. 614). (2b) Modifying Current AIS  One of the advantages of the company choosing to modify its AIS with the help of consultants is â€Å"freeing up systems resources†. According to the information provided the information system group will rely on the consultants to assist in the development, configuration, and testing of the system. This will help free up systems resources and â€Å"reduce both the invisible and the invisible backlog of systems development projects† (Romney Steinbart, 2012, p. 618). Secondly another advantage of the company choosing to modify its AIS with the help of consultants is â€Å"versatility and ease of use†. The software developed by the consultant will easy to understand and use because the consultants can modify the information they produce or change application at any time the company needs them to be changed. This is helpful work employee who work from home or employees on business trip and employees on airplane for business meetings. Lastly, another advantage of the company choosing to modify its AIS with the help of consultant is timeliness. Consultants are able to develop the software more quickly and with little ease than the company would be able to. This due to the company having to get budget approval, provide detailed requirement definitions, cost/benefit analysis, and other political requirements that may halt or slow the development process. One of the disadvantages of the company choosing to modify its AIS is â€Å"poorly controlled and documented systems†. According to the information given the company’s information system group is going to rely on consultants to assist in the development, configuration, and testing of the system. The company runs into problems this way because the consultants may not install controls in order to protect the system. Also because the consultants may view documenting the system as boring and unimportant, this may result in them not creating very good system documentations. By consultant not creating or creating poor system documentation will lead to the employees not fully understanding how to operate the system. Secondly another disadvantage of the company choosing to modify its AIS with the help of consultant is â€Å"inexperienced consultants†. This can result in the company hiring consultants who have little understanding about the business environment and how it operates result in poorly written software that does not meet the company’s strategic plans and goals. In order to mitigate this threat the company should evaluate each consulting group that has experience in the company’s industry and an in-depth understanding of how the company conducts its business. Lastly, another disadvantage of the company choosing to modify its AIS with the help of consultant is â€Å"poorly written and vague contracts†. This can result contracts having to be rewritten causing the company money for having to reimburse contractors. This can also result in the consultants not creating systems that didn’t specify system requirements and performance criteria. In order to mitigate this threat the company should â€Å"sign a contract that rigorously defines the relation between the company and the developer, places responsibility for meeting system requirements on the developers and allows the project to be discontinued if key conditions are not met† (Romney Steinbart, 2012, p. 617). (2c) Outsourcing is hiring an outside company to handle all part of an organizations data processing activities† (Romney Steinbart, 2012, p. 619). The company is considering hiring an outside company in order to do the installation because this will involve very little work on the company’s information system side. One of the benefits of the company choosing to outsource its AIS system to Oracle and have them to maintain the system is the â€Å"development time is lesser†. According to the information given if the company chooses to outsource it will take no more than 15 months to complete the project. If the company decided not to outsource, it may result in the development of the system taking longer than 15 months to complete and the company only has 18 months to complete the project. It would also take Oracle less time to develop the system then the company, because Oracle is the maker of the application â€Å"PeopleSoft Enterprise Financial Management†, because of this Oracle would be able to â€Å"develop and implement the system faster and more efficiently than in-house staff† (Romney Steinbart, 2012, p. 620). Oracle will be able to cut through the development politics unlike the company which may have to follow stringent guidelines when developing the AIS. Secondly, another benefit of the company choosing to outsource its AIS system to Oracle and have them to maintain the system is the â€Å"access to greater expertise and better technology†. By the company letting Oracle install, configure and maintain the AIS application, this greatly reduces the cost and time that would be wasted by the company â€Å"in staying at the cutting edge of technology were rising significantly† (Romney Steinbart, 2012, p. 20). Since Oracle already know the system it would be more logical to let them be responsible for upgrading and keeping the system maintain because they would have a better understanding and knowledge of how the system functions. Lastly, another benefit of the company choosing to outsource its AIS system to Oracle and have them to maintain the system is, it is an â€Å"Excellent strategic and economic business solution. By allowing Oracle to handle the AIS this will give the company a chance to focus on other important areas of the business. â€Å"Outsourcing is a viable strategic and economic business solution that allows companies to concentrate on core competencies† (Romney Steinbart, 2012, p. 620). The company is able to work on the areas that is does successful in and leave the AIS application â€Å"PeopleSoft Enterprise Financial Management† to people who understand and know how to maintain and handle the system. The company will need to treat Oracle as a partner and work side-by-side with them in order for the company to meet its strategic and operational objective. One of the disadvantages of the company choosing to outsource its AIS system to Oracle and have them to maintain the system is because of the â€Å"inflexibility in contracts†. If the company becomes unhappy or decides to change its AIS it will be extremely difficult or costly to break the contract. For example the contract between the company and Oracle may stipulate a 10 year contract with a cost of $5 million dollars if the contract has been breached. If the company changes its mind whether because being unhappy with Oracles performances or structural changes and decide to cancel the contract at year five, this will result in the company having to pay $5 million dollars because they breached the contract which was for 10 years.

Improving Math and Science Scores in Middle School Essay Example for Free

Improving Math and Science Scores in Middle School Essay Math and Science are two subjects which most students at any level approach with trepidation and intense dislike, however, both subjects are integral to cognitive thinking. Not only will these subjects provide skills that will help students think more clearly, but students will be academically successful throughout their school career, enjoy wider career choices and earn more money after graduation. Therefore, establishing a strong foundation in these subjects is integral to future academic and career success. However, studying these subjects in middle school is even more difficult. Studies have shown that the transition for a student from elementary school to middle school is academically and psychologically difficult. According to Maurice Elias in an article entitled, â€Å"Middle School Transition: It’s Harder Than You Think†, many former elementary school students are not well prepared for the demands of middle school. They need explicit instruction, coaching, and support with regard to organizing time and resources for homework; responding to work that is more challenging and requires more effort; understanding and addressing the varying expectations of teachers in different subject areas; and accomplishing such basic tasks as taking notes and taking tests (Elias, 2001). Unfortunately, this same sentiment resonates today with the New York City Public School system, specifically, middle schools located in low income areas. The New York City Public School System is struggling with mathematics achievement in the grades beyond elementary school. Over 30% of the city’s elementary and middle school students score at the lowest level of the state mathematics test and only 34% of all students pass that test. The mathematics â€Å"problem† seems connected to the third major trend in the data, the low performance of middle and junior high schools in the city. In both Mathematics and English Language Arts, the city’s middle and junior high schools seem to be the weakest link in the system (Domanico, 2002). Recently, the math state scores were released further underscoring the middle school â€Å"math problem† that exists. Results showed that while 75. 3% of students at the elementary level passed successfully only 38. 9% of grade eight students passed (Andreatta, 2006, 11). As such, the intent of this study, based on the aforementioned information, is to evaluate and make recommendations with regard to middle school students in a particular school who have been struggling with both subjects. This study will focus on a middle school, IS 166- George Gershwin School—located in East New York. The decision to choose IS 166 was dependent on a few factors among which included the fact that the district within which it is located is considered a â€Å"virtual educational dead zone† by a Civic Report drafted by the Manhattan Institute for Policy Research (Domanico, 2002). Additionally, after reviewing the New York City Department of Education’s website—which provides an overwhelming amount of information on every public school in the city as well as their progress over recent years in the core subjects—it was found that of the schools within the 19th School District—primarily East New York, IS 166 is one of the worst performing schools. The school’s poor academic performance is further exacerbated by the outstanding grades displayed by another school in the 19th School District such as IS 409—East New York Family Academy and outside of the district another school MS 114, located in District 2 (Manhattan), whose grades superseded the city’s level as well as the state’s level. The graphs below illustrate how IS 166 performed poorly in the last 2 years on the state Math and Science exams comparatively to other schools, specifically IS 409 in the same district as well other schools in other districts. The last two graphs will show the difference with a higher performing school such as IS 409 and therefore will confirm why this study is going to be conducted. IS 166- George Gershwin School Math and Science Grades Source: New York Department of Education (Division of Assessment and Accountability—School Report Cards 2005). Definition of the Levels on which the scores for both subjects are based: Level 4—These students exceed the standards and are moving toward high performance on the Regents examination. Level 3—These students meet the standards and, with continued steady growth, should pass the Regents examination. Level 2—These students need extra help to meet the standards and pass the Regents examination. Level 1—These students have serious academic deficiencies. Source: New York Department of Education (Division of Assessment and Accountability—School Report Cards 2005). The aforementioned graphs showed how poorly IS 166 has performed in the last two years in both Math and Science. In Math, the number of students performing at Levels 3 and 4 has decreased from 22. 2% in 2004 and 17. 5% in 2005. The number of students tested for Level 3 was only 60 and for Level 4 only 3 of 361 total students. The remaining students, as displayed on the right hand side of the graph, are still at a Level 1 which as noted by the above definition means that they are in grave need of assistance. Therefore, for the purposes of the study, the target population will be defined as â€Å"in need† students. Although there has been a slight increase in Science, the results are still less than desirable when compared with other schools in the district and the City. As seen in the graph, only 14% of the students passed at Levels 3 and 4 in 2004 and by 2005, only 18% were able to pass at the same levels. Therefore, if IS 166 continues on this trajectory, it will continue to be labeled an underperforming school that graduates below average students incapable of performing the basic tasks in both subjects. The goal of the evaluation study is to thoroughly review the problems that exist and hopefully get the school to achieve grades similar to IS 409-East New York Family Academy sometime in the near future as is reflected in the following graphs. IS 409- East New York Family Academy Math and Science Grades Source: New York Department of Education (Division of Assessment and Accountability—School Report Cards 2005). As noted in the above graphs, IS 409 is performing extremely well at Levels 3 and 4 and has outperformed schools in both math and science in the district (which is truly exceptional given the neighborhood and its history) as well as other City schools. Very few students if any are far below the standard in both subjects. Moreover, as noted before, other schools such as MS 114 and IS 289 located in District 2 have maintained exceptional scores over the two year period. For 2004 and 2005, MS 114 scored 88% and 81% consecutively in Math and 97% and 91% in Science. IS 289 also scored high grades-for both years in Math, the school displayed 83% and 73% when compared to other schools in the district and city and in Science, they scored 87% and 82%. Other schools in other districts from Queens and Staten Island have also demonstrated solid scores. This makes designing a program even more of a priority in light of the above referenced comparisons. The study will not focus on the students at all levels in the middle schools but specifically, the eighth grade students destined for high school who have yet to grasp the necessary skills needed to succeed and have been the center of test score analysis over the years. These eighth grade students will be approximately 14 years old but depending on factors such as repeating a grade or special needs, the age may vary from 14-16 years old. As noted before, they will be identified as â€Å"in need† students and the study will attempt to identify the worst performing students by looking not only at grades but possibly contributing factors such as income, special needs, and possible crime involvement. The improvement of Math and Science scores is a gargantuan task which requires a major overall of the school at all levels, however, to begin the following services are needed and they are but not limited to: ?Offering training sessions for the math and science teachers. The difference between not only IS 409 and other schools in District 2 is that the teachers have more experience, education, and are less likely to be absent more than average. The training sessions will be implemented on weekends or after-school whichever is more convenient for the teachers and will be done prior to establishing an after-school program for the students. The training sessions will allow teachers from higher performing schools an opportunity to impart their techniques for achieving higher grades. ?Offering a separate informative session for the Principal, Maria Ortega, so that she is more knowledgeable on what is needed to succeed in both areas. In most cases, the principal of a school has a general idea of what is needed in most subject areas, however, if the principal is more involved, informed, and fully comprehends the nuances of the subject matter, then she will be able to make better choices in hiring and understanding the teaching of the curriculum. This is an idea which originated out of reading the case of MS 114 in District 2 which showcases a principal that has not only taught but has written Math books for children. Also, in IS 289, the principal knows each student individually and is fully acquainted with their needs. ?Offering additional services for children that may range from an after-school program to extending class hours to offering classes on the weekend. One of the schools in District 2 actually has classes that last at least 50 minutes giving students a better opportunity to absorb the material thereby performing better in exams. ?Offering programs that will incorporate the parents as well. Perhaps this will be in conjunction with the after-school program. As noted, most of the students in this district are from low income families and perhaps some of the parents are in low paying jobs or living on welfare. The parents can take advantage of the program by refreshing themselves with the basic concepts of each subject so that they may assist their children and perhaps help themselves. PROGRAM THEORY In order to address the dire academic situation at IS 166-George Gershwin School, and before implementing an after-school program, it is important to address the issue at the higher levels which means analyzing teaching techniques and more importantly, principal participation. At the Center for Civic Innovation Luncheon featuring Chancellor Joel Klein held on Thursday, October 5th at the Harvard Club, Chancellor Klein began his speech with an analogy of the leaky roof and the squeaky floor. He stated that there was a school located in uptown Harlem that had a leaky roof and a squeaky floor. One day a repair man came to repair the floor and the custodian stated that the floor cannot be fixed prior to the roof being fixed to which the repairman replied â€Å"That’s not my concern, I am just here for the floor†. The Chancellor began his speech with that story to underscore the problems with the NYC Education system. He believes that everyone wants to fix the underlying problems without addressing the issues at the surface. The Chancellor’s story may be applied to the case of IS 166 and any other school in need of improvement. Many observers and parents are often led to believe that their children are primarily the problem in achieving higher scores and possibly that their children lack the intellect to truly analyze or process the information given to them. However, it is just as important for the heads of the respective schools to be cognizant of what is needed to improve these scores and the principal is just the person to ensure this. Therefore, before implementing a program, we have recommended that Principal Maria Ortega participate in a briefing session lasting approximately one month in the summer—right after the end of the school year and before the hiring season begins—for at least 4 hours a day, three days a week. According to reports of comprehensive school reforms in Chicago and Louisiana, the schools’ academic success was primarily attributed to the principals in charge and the contributions they made throughout the reforms. In one report, it stated that â€Å"highly effective schools communicated expectations for teachers. The principal was active in working to improve teacher skills; ineffective teachers were let go. † Moreover, the principals played an important role in four areas a) selection and replacement of teachers; b) classroom monitoring and feedback; c) support for improvement of individual teachers; and d) allocating and protecting academic time (Good et al, 2005, 2207). Therefore, implementing a program or briefing session solely for Principal Ortega would help her improve in all these areas. Principals, under Chancellor Klein’s tenure, have been given more empowerment opportunities and have more responsibilities to ensure the success of their schools. IS 166 has been categorized as a Title I School In Need of Improvement (SINI) under the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) and as such, Principal Ortega has to work harder than ever to improve the english, math, and science scores—subjects that are integral to a student’s academic success. The program we have suggested will illustrate to Principal Ortega that math, in particular, cannot be taught in the traditional manner, that is, using rote. In fact, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) advocates the development of an inquiry-based mathematics tradition. Students taught using this tradition are encouraged to explore, develop conjectures, prove, and problem solve (Manswell Butty, 2001, 20). Students are best able to absorb the material in not only math and science but other subjects if the teachers are able to present it in an interesting manner that entails connections to the outside world. Principal Ortega should also be familiarized with the requirements for the exams and then know exactly how the staff should approach student preparation. She should also ensure that with respect to math, she adheres to the recommendations Lyle V. Jones reiterated in his article entitled â€Å"Achievement Trends in Math and Science† in which it was stated: ? Only teachers who like mathematics should teach mathematics ? The chief objective of school mathematics should be to instill confidence ? Mathematics teaching must be based on both contemporary mathematics and modern pedagogy (Jones, 1988, 333). After completion of this program, and hopefully with a better understanding of what is needed to improve the scores at IS 166, the next step would be to address the teaching staff. As noted, the methodology used is integral to ensuring that the students comprehend, absorb, and analyze the information being disseminated. If they fail to process the information then they will ultimately perform poorly in the state exams and possibly continue to do so throughout high school. We recommend prior to the beginning of the academic year, and the implementation of the after-school program, that teachers, specifically, the math teachers enroll in a summer institute similar to one reported in an article entitled, â€Å"Toward a Constructivist Perspective: The Impact of a Math Teacher InService Program on Students†. The reason being is that the teaching of math more so than science requires certain techniques that are far from the traditional methods that most teachers employ. The summer institute in the report offered participating teachers intensive two-week summer institutes and weekly classroom follow-up during one academic year. Moreover, they received an opportunity to reexamine their ideas about the teaching and learning of mathematics. During the summer institutes, these teachers experienced mathematics classes in which they were encouraged to construct solutions and ideas and to communicate them to a group. They analyzed student understandings as revealed in interviews and they planned lessons which reflected their evolving ideas about mathematics learning and teaching (Simon and Schifter, 1993, 331). Teachers need to plan their lessons in such a manner as to engage the students so that they may effectively communicate their thoughts or problems with a particular issue. In fact, after completion of the summer institute, and after the teachers began using their newfound techniques, the results were noteworthy and ranged from students stating that â€Å"it’s fun to work math problems† to â€Å"I’d rather do math than any other kind of homework† to â€Å"I like to explain how I solved a problem†(Simon and Schifter, 1993, 333). Therefore, using the above referenced example, the summer institute that we propose for the math teachers will last approximately three weeks in the summer and it would begin approximately mid-August prior to the beginning of the academic year. This program would be mandated by the principal and would include veteran staff members as well new ones brought on board. Another factor that teachers have to take into consideration is the population they cater to during the academic year. IS 166 consists of predominantly black and Hispanic students residing in East New York and its surrounding environs, thereby, making them not only an â€Å"in need† group in terms of grades but an â€Å"at risk† group in terms of their backgrounds and predisposition to engage in illicit activities. Many believe teaching techniques are generic and if they are employed in one school then they may be applicable in another. However, studies have shown that minority children in low income neighborhoods require a different set of techniques employed. According to Manswell Butty, African-American children have further been identified as favoring four learning styles a) person-centered, b) affective, c) expressive, and movement oriented (Butty, 2001, 23). Therefore, teachers need to use laboratory or group exercises, discussion sessions, or instructional uses of music and the visual and dramatic arts, especially when those pedagogical techniques promote Black students’ greater academic involvement, interest, and performances (Butty, 2001, 23). However, this is not a generalization implying that all minority children respond to this technique but most will probably respond positively. Therefore, teachers must be made aware of the group of children that they are dealing with and ensure that they employ the above referenced techniques to garner success. In fact, there are Learning through Teaching in an After-School Pedagogical Laboratories (L-TAPL) in California and New Jersey, which not only offer a program for elementary students but also serves as a practice-rich professional development for urban teachers. The program aims to improve the achievement of urban students and the competence of their teachers (Foster et al, 2005, 28). According to the Foster article, numerous studies, policies, and programs have addressed the persistent problem of underachievement among poor urban students and its array of possible causes. The NCLB links teacher quality to improved student achievement, especially among low-income urban children of color. Consequently, improving teacher quality has become one of the hallmarks of current reform efforts (Foster et al, 2005, 28). These laboratories groom future urban teachers to deal with students similar to the target population at IS 166. And as such, as an alternative to our summer institute, the teachers are free to enroll in the program offered by this lab in New Jersey. Therefore, taking into account the above referenced studies, improving teacher quality is of utmost importance when taking into consideration the improvement of math and science scores. All of the above has brought us to the most important element of the study establishing an after-school program. Establishing an After-school Program-Resources Funding Under the NCLB Act, Title I schools, such as IS 166 that are listed as Schools In Need of Improvement, have failed to reach student achievement targets that have been set for every school. This means the school has failed to meet state proficiency level for all students in English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science and/or high schools graduation rate. Schools falling in the above referenced category may be eligible for Supplemental Educational Services (SES). SES include free after-school/weekend remedial help or tutoring services. The SES provision offers providers an opportunity to offer low-income children, who may be struggling in school, extra academic help and individual instruction. Through SES, innovative leaders and educators can start a new tutoring program or expand an existing one to serve more students (New York City Department of Education). However, instead of using an SES provider—which in some cases the DOE will offer contracts of over a million dollars to provide services to various schools—we will request additional funding that would have been used to acquire an SES provider to establish the after-school program by ourselves with the assistance of The After-school Corporation (TASC). TASC is renowned for establishing successful after-school programs and have no contract with the DOE and thus, are not labeled SES Providers. In addition to wanting to establish a program using solely school staff, it is important to note, that there have been several complaints about SES providers and most are being investigated either by the Special Commissioner of Investigation for the New York City School District or the Office of Special Investigation and in the best interest of the target population, we have decided to forego those providers. Therefore, the funding used from SES will be used to offer per session rates for the teachers participating in the program as well as pay for the consultant from TASC. The funding will also be used to acquire additional supplies such as the KidzMath program which is highly popular and is used around the country to get students interested in math and to improve scores. Funding will also be used to secure additional bus transportation from the Office of Pupil Transportation as well as food and refreshments for the children. Staffing and Facilities The program will be housed in the school recreation room and so there will be no need to rent a facility to do so. The program will be supervised by the TASC consultant who will preferably be someone from the community who is familiar with the target population and can easily relate to their situation. The principal and assistant principal will take turns observing the classes and ensuring that the teachers and participants are abiding by the rules. The teachers will be eighth grade math and science teachers who deal with the target population on a daily basis and who are familiar with the problems they are experiencing. Additionally, the teachers will be assisted by high school students who are well versed in the subject areas, who have been recruited from neighboring high schools and would like to add an after-school tutoring activity to their resume. Therefore, these students will not be paid but will use the after-school program as a learning experience. Participants The students participating in the program will be chosen based on their past academic performance in grades six and seven and failure to show any signs of improvement. To reiterate, this program is geared specifically for eighth grade students, ages 14-16 years old, and will begin a month into the beginning of the academic year towards the end of September early October after the students and teachers have settled in the new semester. Letters will be sent to the parents at the beginning of the academic year notifying them of their child’s progress and advising them that the program is mandatory if they are to improve and move on to high school (the letters will be followed up by phone calls). While the school has no recourse if a student fails to attend even though it has been marked mandatory, offering a voluntary program usually encourages those that are really not in need of it to participate and those that do need it usually don’t. The parents will be informed of the structure of the program and the fact that transportation will be provided so that their children will be taken home safely after the program. In fact, parents who may not be working full time or at all will be encouraged to observe or participate in another session that will help them to understand what their child needs to improve. The session, which will last as long as the tutoring session, will more than likely be conducted by the assistant principal or a math/science staff member and will give the parent an opportunity to be truly acquainted with the activities being conducted. This program may also be helpful to them as well as some of these parents lack the basic educational skills that are necessary to obtain a job. Activities and Schedule Based on successful programs in Arkansas, the after-school program we will establish will mirror these successful programs and therefore, the program will entail classes of one and a half hours each day, Monday through Thursday between the hours of 3pm and 4:30pm. Mondays and Wednesdays will be dedicated to math and Tuesdays and Thursdays will be dedicated to science. The sessions will be divided into 40 minute periods during which the first period will be dedicated to the teacher illustrating the subject material and the second period will be dedicated to the students participating in groups and working together to complete the work presented in the first period. The students will get a ten-minute break during which they will receive refreshments. In the Camden School District in Arkansas, school officials credited the success of the after-school programs to the schools being released from the â€Å"Adequate Yearly Progress† (AYP) status under the NCLB Act (Arkansas Advocates for Children Families, 2006). Throughout the course of the program, teachers will be encouraged not to utilize the same material or techniques used on a daily basis. The teachers will be reminded that the program is geared towards individuals who have a negative attitude toward the subjects which may be as a result of not only failure to comprehend the material but also the teacher’s emphasis on traditional methods. Therefore, the program will forego any emphasis on memorization, computation, and equation and will focus on modeling and real world problem solving. Engaging in group work, especially in math, has proven to be successful and will be the focus of the program. According to Jones, group work differs from cooperative learning in its lesser emphasis on the teacher as instructor and its greater dependence on students teaching other students. Moreover, cooperative learning procedures as dependent first on instruction by the teacher, then on practice engaged in actively by members of an established student team (often of four team members), has evidence that supports the efficacy of the approach to elevate not only achievement but also self-esteem, interpersonal effectiveness and interracial harmony (Jones, 1988, 328). Therefore, the students will work together in groups over the period of the academic year and will be exposed to hands-on experiences, games, and projects. KidzMath should really be a good stimulant and with the assistance of the teachers, the students should be motivated. Teachers will also be encouraged to maintain a weekly progress report which will ultimately be used to assess the program’s progress. Another aspect of the program would entail having the Principal establishing stronger ties with the community and getting more community leaders involved by dropping by the after-school program to give advice and encouragement to the students. Students are not only stimulated by various activities that are outside of the norm of the regular classroom but are also stimulated by role models or individuals they deem to be successful from their part of the neighborhood. According to a report done on the Chicago School Reform, the schools that experienced major changes and improvements were led by principals who were strong veteran leaders with good relationships with their local school councils and the community (Hess, Jr. , 1999, 79). Additionally, incentives can also be offered for the students in the program which will encourage their continued participation and potential success and can range from visits to museums or amusement parks if they have showed slight improvements. While these children who performed poorly are from low income families, and a reduction in poverty rates might have a salutary effect on measured school achievement, according to Lyle V. Jones, the influence of poverty on educational achievement may be ameliorated by introducing school-parent programs to improve academic conditions in the home. After reviewing nearly 3,000 investigations of productive factors in learning concludes that such programs have an outstanding record of success in promoting achievement (Jones, 1988, 327). Explanation of Logic Model. Inputs: consist of the fundamental resources—human and capital—that the program needs in order for it to achieve its goals. These resources consist of funding for per session rates for the teachers, payment for the TASC Consultant, supplies such as KidzMath, transportation, and refreshments. The most important resources needed are the children to whom the program is directed. Activities: Once the fundamental resources are in place, the schedule has been established and the techniques for teaching have been agreed upon, then the after-school program will proceed as planned throughout the academic year. The sessions will be conducted four days a week, Mondays and Wednesdays, for math and Tuesdays and Thursdays for science lasting 1. 5 hrs each period. The sessions will entail a great deal of group work and collaboration along with potential visits from community leaders and role models. Outputs: Upon implementation of the program, it is important to ascertain if the program is reaching its target population, if the services provided are being done in the manner discussed and if the population are benefiting or if they have any concerns those will be noted throughout the assessment. This will be done by conducting site visits, performing observations and conducting surveys. Outcomes: If the program is successful in achieving its goals, then the immediate goals will see the students passing their in-class tests and ultimately the state exams—which has been the focal issue with the school and the reason for the Title I status under the NCLB Act. The long-term goals include the participants of the program actually going on to high school and possibly even college. From that point onward, if students succeed in college, they may even pursue challenging careers thereby improving their socio-economic status. The reason the logic diagram is done in a cyclical manner is to demonstrate that if the program is successful and the students do improve significantly, then the school may be eligible for the same amount or a higher amount of funding which they can use to increase their resources for the input phase for the upcoming academic year. PROGRAM PROCESS Once the program has been implemented, it is important to ascertain if the services are in fact being delivered as planned and if the participants are learning with the teachers employing the new techniques as discussed. In order to do this, we will conduct an observational study as fashioned from the TASC’s site visit procedures in addition to teacher and parental surveys to see if they have noted any differences in the children participating in the program. This assessment will be done halfway throughout the semester at approximately the end of January which will also coincide with the first set of state exams (students also take these exams towards the end of the academic year-approximately June). The assessment will begin with a two-person team (my colleague and I) visiting the after-school’s program for two days a week, for a total of two weeks—one day for math and the other for science. The visit will include an interview with the principal and assistant principal (who, as noted before, would have taken turns monitoring the program).