The Emptiness of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby Essay Example For Students

The Emptiness of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby Essay Jay Gatsby’s sole purpose in life is to achieve the American Dream: to become a land owner, married to the love of his life, who live in comfort and abundance. However, he never gets everything he wants as his love for Daisy is not as fully reciprocated as he wishes it to be. His dream, and the one Nick pursues as well, are only dreams in the end. The culture of the time only gives empty fulfillment with no real substance. The people, like their dreams, are only illusions of what they want to be. Gatsby’s life after the war is his search for his American Dream, which, in his eyes, culminates in Daisy. Nick observes that Gatsby â€Å"found that he had committed himself to the following of a grail† (149). Fitzgerald chooses to compare Gatsby’s quest for Daisy to that of a quest for the Holy Grail as they are equally futile. The Holy Grail and the American Dream both do not exist and so Gatsby is chasing an imagined idea. Thus, his quest is for something not grounded in reality. Gatsby’s relationship with Daisy is based on false pretenses as he â€Å"had deliberately given daisy a sense of security; he let her believe that he was a person from much the same stratum as herself—that he was fully able to take care of her† (149). We will write a custom essay on The Emptiness of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now At the foundation their â€Å"love† is based on falsehoods, and so their love is, perhaps, doomed from the beginning since it has begun in a dream state as well. Gatsby’s father, Mr. Gatz, believed in the American Dream and is as naive as his son. He says, â€Å"Jimmy was bound to get ahead† (173), as if it was Gatsby’s right do so as a pragmatic person. His pragmatism does get him his job with Wolfsheim, an example of an incredibly pragmatic man, and thus gets him his wealth. However, the time he lost in attaining his riches was . .k seems to realize how deplorable and synthetic his friends from his summer on Long Island actually are. When he encounters Tom, he refuses to shake his hand and says to him â€Å"‘You know what I think of you† (178). He sees through everyone’s affectation and realizes how perverse their behavior was. He also abandons the East and moves back west because he has discovered that his dreams can never be accomplished and thus resolves everyone’s hopes. In the world of Gatsby achieving the Dream is impossible unless one is to abandon all sense of propriety and become as â€Å"careless†, cruel, and essentially empty as Tom and Daisy. Works CitedFitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. New York: Scribner, 2004. Print.Turner, Fredrick J. Turner: The Frontier In American History. Turner: The Frontier In American History. University of Virginia, 30 Sept. 1997. Web. 19 Mar. 2014.

Free Essays on Louis Xiv

Louis XIV, The Sun King Louis XIV was only four years old when he succeeded his father to the French throne. Often uncared for, he nearly drowned because no one was watching him as he played near a pond. This began to shape in his young mind an early fear of God. Louis' character was also shaped by the French Civil War. In this, the Paris Parlement rose against the crown. For five years, Louis would suffer fear, cold, hunger and other spirit-breaking events. He would never forgive Paris, the nobles, or the common people. Finally, in 1653, Cardinal Jules Mazarin was able to end the rebellion. He began to instruct Louis on his position as king. Even though Louis XIV was now of age, the Cardinal remained the dominant authority in French politics. French kings gained respect as a soldier; Louis served with the French army during France's war with Spain. His biggest battle, however, was sacrificing his love for Mazarin's niece for politics. In 1660 he married the daughter of the king of Spain to bring peace between the two countries. Mazarin died March 9, 1661. On March 10, Louis claimed supreme authority in France. Not since Henry IV had such a claim been made. Louis saw himself as God's representative on earth, therefore, infallible. He oversaw roadbuilding, court decorum, defense, and disputes within the church. He had the support initially of his ministers, then that of the French people. He had given France the image it desired-youth and vitality surrounded by magnificence. Louis won the favor of the nobles by making it evident that their future depended on their ability stay on his good side. This weakened the nobility, and would eventually weaken France. Louis had among his supportors a wide spectrum of individuals. Writers such as Moliere were ordered to glorify him. Monuments rose throughout the country and Louis had palaces built in his honor. The most elaborate was Versailles, located outside Paris. Away from d... Free Essays on Louis Xiv Free Essays on Louis Xiv Louis XIV, The Sun King Louis XIV was only four years old when he succeeded his father to the French throne. Often uncared for, he nearly drowned because no one was watching him as he played near a pond. This began to shape in his young mind an early fear of God. Louis' character was also shaped by the French Civil War. In this, the Paris Parlement rose against the crown. For five years, Louis would suffer fear, cold, hunger and other spirit-breaking events. He would never forgive Paris, the nobles, or the common people. Finally, in 1653, Cardinal Jules Mazarin was able to end the rebellion. He began to instruct Louis on his position as king. Even though Louis XIV was now of age, the Cardinal remained the dominant authority in French politics. French kings gained respect as a soldier; Louis served with the French army during France's war with Spain. His biggest battle, however, was sacrificing his love for Mazarin's niece for politics. In 1660 he married the daughter of the king of Spain to bring peace between the two countries. Mazarin died March 9, 1661. On March 10, Louis claimed supreme authority in France. Not since Henry IV had such a claim been made. Louis saw himself as God's representative on earth, therefore, infallible. He oversaw roadbuilding, court decorum, defense, and disputes within the church. He had the support initially of his ministers, then that of the French people. He had given France the image it desired-youth and vitality surrounded by magnificence. Louis won the favor of the nobles by making it evident that their future depended on their ability stay on his good side. This weakened the nobility, and would eventually weaken France. Louis had among his supportors a wide spectrum of individuals. Writers such as Moliere were ordered to glorify him. Monuments rose throughout the country and Louis had palaces built in his honor. The most elaborate was Versailles, located outside Paris. Away from d...

An Annotated Bibliography Essay Example for Free

An Annotated Bibliography Essay Chin, Jean Lau. (2004). The Psychology of Prejudice and Discrimination. Westport, CT: Greenwood Publishing Group This book discusses the effects of prejudice and discrimination on the psyche and one’s participation in society as a whole. The relevant section in this book discusses the unique plight of gay or bisexual black men that have to contend with homophobia as well as racism. Of special note is the section in which sexual orientation often has a negative effect on the career development of many gay black men. This is an interesting resource since most of the material on the subject does not address the secondary sub-category of sexual orientation (Chin, 2004). Daniels, C. (2004). Black Power Inc. : The New Voice of Success. Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons C. Daniel’s Black Power Inc. is a book of medium length that explores the phenomenon of black people placing a growing emphasis on economic rather than political power. The book is geared toward young to middle-aged black professional men and women, who are Working While Black (WWB). C. Daniels writes for Fortune magazine with an extensive history in writing about the social dynamics inherent in big business—especially as it relates to the unique issues black men and women face in the corporate world (Daniels, 2004). Davis, G. & Watson, G. (1982). Black Life in Corporate America: Swimming in the Mainstream. Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press Although written twenty-seven years ago, this account by Davis & Watson (1982) is still relevant in chronicling the early stages of Black integration into corporate American life. The book describes the upstream struggles of educated black professionals as they attempt to make a living commensurate with their skills. While also observing the lesser tolerance of open bigotry in the workplace, certain â€Å"jokes† and comments are often alienating to black men (Davis & Watson, 1982). Gates, Henry Louis. America behind the Color Line. New York: Warner Books, 2004 This book contains interviews from several powerful African-American men including Russell Simmons, Quincy Jones, Vernon Jordan, Colin Powell and Morgan Freeman. Written by Henry Louis Gates, Jr. , one of the premier scholars of African-American studies today. This book shows the diversity of successful Black men from the corporate and political arenas to the performing arts and community activism, and discusses triumphs and challenges. A very good read for anyone studying black achievement (Gates, 2004). Livers, A. & Caver, K. A. (2002). Leading in Black and White: Working across the Racial Divide in Corporate America. Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons This book by Livers & Caver (2002) describes the challenges faced by Blacks who occupy a higher level on the corporate ladder (i. e. managerial positions). They challenge the popular assumption that black leaders have the same issues as white leaders, and underscore the problems of trust many black men have with their white colleagues because of lack of common experiences. This book was intended for black managers that need help in continuing to navigate the system (Livers & Carver, 2002). Merida, K. (2007). Being a Black Man: At the Corner of Progress and Peril. Washington: Public Affairs This is a collection of essays about the personal and professional struggles of black men in America. Many points of view deal with identity intersections of different roles—husband, father, employee, and businessman—as well as dreams and ambitions. This book generated a great deal of interest in the reading public as it offers a personal glimpse of the realities of black life. K. Merida is a reporter for the Washington Post, and was thus able to use his credentials to find many contributors to this volume (Merida, 2007). Van Horne, W. A. (2007). The Concept of Black Power: Its Continued Relevance. Journal of Black Studies, 37(3), 365-389 This is a study of the growth of Black Power in America as the middle-class grows slowly and quietly. Even though over time, black people have gained more civil rights in America, there is still a significant lag between them and the white majority. However, W. A. Van Horne notes that the black underclass often overshadows the slow, but inexorable growth of the black middle class. He also raises questions of whether the black power movement is still relevant (Van Horne, 2007). An Annotated Bibliography. (2016, Aug 04).

Hildegard Peplau Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Hildegard Peplau - Essay Example She also did work at Bellevue and Chestnut Lodge Psychiatric Facilities and was in contact with renowned psychiatrists Freida Fromm-Richman and Harry Stack Sullivan. From the beginning of her career in the late 1930s, Peplau worked tirelessly to advance nursing education and practice. Her efforts and excellent leadership saved the American Nurses Association from bankruptcy and moved the nursing profession towards scientific recognition and respectability. She was recognized for her numerous contributions in the nursing profession. Peplau has been considered as one of the renowned nursing leaders of her time. Her writings and research were repeatedly featured in the American Journal of Nursing from 1951 to 1960. She became a professor emeritus from Rutgers shortly after obtaining her doctorate degree. She established the first nursing post-baccalaureate program and eventually held the title of executive director and president of the American Nurses Association. She promoted professional standards and regulation through credentialing, as well as introduced the concept of advanced nursing practice. She advocated on behalf of nurses by advancing their status as professionals. She worked progressively in the mental health field and ultimately created a conceptual framework for the interpersonal relationship between nurses and their patients. She was honored as a â€Å"Living Legend† by the American Academy of Nurses. Starting in the early 1950s, she published many texts, beginning with a manuscript of a compilation of her theoretical framework for psychodynamic nursing entitled Interpersonal Relations in Nursing (published in 1952). She taught psychodynamic nursing and stressed the nurse’s ability to understand his or her own behavior to help others identify perceived difficulties. She identified the following phases of the nurse-patient relationship: orientation,

Topics for writing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Topics for writing - Essay Example Americans believe in saying things in a direct manner. If an American boss gave you a deadline, he/she can most probably wait for long after the deadline. Americans are not as particular about the deadlines as Germans are. They take and give sufficient time for work, but demand a high quality work. Freedom means a lot to Americans in every walk of life. There is freedom of expression both in terms of language and getup. One can define oneself in whatever way one likes. Sometimes, cultural differences give rise to misunderstandings. For example, two Americans stand at considerable distance from each other while interacting in general, whereas Latin Americans stand pretty close to each other while interacting. Hence, when a Latin American man talks to a woman in the usual manner, the woman considers him as having crossed his limit and entered the personal space of the woman. Thus, it is always a good idea to conduct a brief study about the general standards of ethics and mannerism in A merica in order to escape misunderstandings.

Pornography Essay Example for Free

Pornography Essay Over the period of many years the consumption of pornography has massively expanded causing it to have presently created itself a significant position in culture. Society has learnt to accept and receive porn as part of its natural and regular routines. Whether it’s the control factor which porn allows its audience to hold or the fact that porn requires minimum effort and commitment, either way at least 40 million adults regularly find themselves visiting pornographic sites. (microtrends,2007, page 276) According to (George Barna, Boiling Point: It Takes One Degree: Monitoring Cultural Shifts in the 21st Century, p. 23) sales on the internet for pornographic images seem to exceed the sales of other online products. The demand of porn remains active as users place their confidence in the discretion factor which pornography holds. This demand contributes to the reason in which porn has created its significant niche into society, becoming effortlessly integrated into popular culture. Unlike technology used every day which is almost always provided with warnings for its consumers, pornography comes with no warnings. Material can range from contemporary and soft to offensive and degrading, yet many individuals believe that porn in a choice, in which its viewers take their own risk in any dangers it may cause. Whilst porn was once seen as an expression of male ethos, it has grown to have become enjoyable for both male and female nations. The extensions of sexual fantasies created by both the male and female mind are part of the contribution towards the change in the industry in which pornography has gone from practically invisible to globally unavoidable. Whereas many had once scorned porn or found it humiliating to be considered having any link with the industry, the substance is now much more open and can often be socially discussed. Whilst it may have once been demeaning to be seen with a ‘Playboy’ or ‘Nuts’ magazine, these images have now become part of our mainstream media creating an undistinguishable line of what one may consider as soft or hard porn. As porn has become progressively embedded upon philosophy, a wider range of pornographic footages and images become available for its audience at affordable charges, creating an overwhelming growth in the pornography industry. Alongside the growth of technology, this shift in culture has concluded in media finding itself with an excessive amount of porn accessible over the internet. Many of these images being classified as ‘extreme porn. ’ So what is extreme pornography? Commencing the 26th January 2009, laws on ‘extreme porn’ were put into action by the United Kingdom Government meaning it became illegal to possess any extreme pornography that may be ‘grossly offensive, disgusting or of obscene character’, alongside any pornography which may ‘portray any explicit and realistic way of extreme acts. (http://www. cps. gov. uk/legal/d_to_g/extreme_pornography/) Extreme porn was defined by the Government under specific sexual acts. The ministry of Justice put into place that any acts containing a result or likely result of serious injury to a person’s genitals, anus or breasts would be considered as extreme. Deeds threating a person’s life or sexual ac ts involving a corpse were also placed under this act. Pornographic images or footage which may be defined as such are strictly illegal in the United Kingdom meaning those found distributing or publishing may face conviction. Throughout the early stages of extreme porn publishing, images and videos were put together by students and television authorities with the help of prostitutes in order to create what would be the future of porn. Much of this media caused shock and controversy throughout many diverse cultures and societies who believed extreme porn should be categorized with child pornography. The Obscene Publications Act was put into place in order to support an argument in which would claim that limits were to be set in order to diffuse the growth of extreme pornography in order to protect children and the general public from the pornographic industry. The controversies around porn clearly show the modification of the purpose of pornography. As it was once used for satire, pornographic images gradually began and remain to be used in order to stimulate and satisfy. According to Gail Dines (How Porn Has Hijacked Our Sexuality) the vast majority of porn which is being viewed today contains violent and extremely graphic images. Being an anti-porn feminist Dines feels porn is degrading to women who are often the receivers of the violent behavior. In writing her book, Dines expressed her feelings on the hard-core pornography industry and how she feels that pornography is changing the way in which men and women explore their sexual relationships, as if porn is celebrating the use of forcefulness, violence and humiliation in intercourse. Dines opinion is questioned by pro-porn feminists who believe women have as much of a right to explore their sexual fantasies which may involve forms of seduction and violence, as do men. As many more women believed that being involved in pornography was a right which they had themselves, more content began to become produced. As the desires of both men and now women began to grow so did the content used in porn. In April 2006, Chanel 4 released a series ‘The Dark Side of Porn’ in which researchers studied the adult pornography industry. Extreme pornography was explored throughout the series, particularly during season two, where bestiality was travelled in which Bodil Joensen’s life as a porn star was laid out for viewers. Joensen was known to have had sexual intercourse with animals in at least 40 extreme pornographically movies. Her sexual activities caused much shock however allowed her to create a celebrity status for herself. ‘Animal Farm’ contained sexual corruption meaning it wasn’t to be allowed for official release however this seemed to draw in more viewers who were eager to find out more about the film and to discover the reasons in which it may have been banned. Like many porn stars who may have engaged with sexual activity with animals, Joensen received much demand and attention from users who use porn in order to feel better about themselves. Whilst many might have found the footage to be offensive, conversely many users gained complete satisfaction as they believed that if Joensen would engage in sexual intercourse with animals she would also consider intercourse with them. Their gratification went on to turn into a fantasy, creating an increasing demand. Joensen, now known as the queen of bestiality, may have once disturbed many with her sexual activities, though now it seems as if her life is celebrated. This became an influence for other upcoming porn stars who also craved the attention of the public, using pornography to get to the top. However, many attempts were rejected by Hollywood who originally wished to have nothing to do with the porn business. As culture and society began to change, Joensen became one of the many porn starts to have created a distinguished career. Today porn stars are regularly placed into the same grouping as singers, actors and other mainstream celebrities, particularly as many personalities also become part of the pornography industry with the help of leaked home sex tapes which are often sold for unimaginable amounts of money. The industry has gone global in which the standards of porn anticipated by those who sell sex is beyond belief. In order to generate a celebrity status for themself, porn stars pornographic footage or images must be talked about. Due to television, magazines and music videos, soft porn will no longer create this image. As society becomes more comfortable with soft porn which is faced on a daily basis, porn stars are pushed to their limits in order to be noticed. The use of soft porn in daily media affects the whole society and has become a main contribution to the reason in which many individuals are left unconcerned with today’s mainstream pornography. ‘Sex sells,’ is often a statement used by the media in order to justify the use of sexual images throughout their broadcasting. As progressively more industries begin to use sex as an advertising tool, pornography starts to become the normality meaning it also becomes less offensive and more accepted. Hard-core need to involve the substances which soft porn lacks in order to achieve its desired effect. Whilst soft porn would have once been used as a method of arousal, magazines and television allow their audience to experience this pleasure every day, contributing in soft porn becoming more socially acceptable. An example of this can be seen in music videos in which women are often displayed as sex symbols where they dance erotically wearing racy clothing. Being exposed to these messages on a daily basic has created a sense of monotony towards soft pornography meaning the porn industry is pushed to its boundary in order to re-build the satisfaction factor it wishes to impose upon its audience. One of the main factors which contribute to porn being less offensive over the years is through acceptance. Pornography has become more established into many diverse cultures and societies, although many anti-porn feminists and religious icons may disagree, many will argue that pornography caries its advantages involving the non-judgemental form of stimulation it provides to its audience. Whilst once the use of porn in media was scorned, society has become more tolerant of the industry, even discussing the use of porn with minors on series such as ‘The Sex Education Show’ airing on Chanel 4. The growth of pornography has been joined by nourishment for the industry as many take on the approach that society has no choice but to live with porn and assume the responsibility that it may hold. Alongside being more accepted into popular culture, pornography has also become more accessible. This relates to both soft and hard-core porn. DVD’s, the internet, magazines, television and many other new technologies have allowed sexual media to become widely available to everyone including underage children. The average age of children wishing to explore sex decreases, as the typical age of internet porn expose is at a tender eleven years. (www. familysafemedia. co. uk) Children not only view sex, they are often manipulated in order to become part of sexual fantasies for adults. The availability of porn has as much contribution to the formation of extreme porn as the acceptance of soft pornography. Being seen as a delivery system in which porn can be easily accessed or delivered to its audience with no commitment or effort needed, pornography has broadened the perimeter of the amount of porn which can actually be accessed. The porn which has today grown to become widely available for viewers is far from contemporary, soft and friendly porn. Hard-core porn has become increasingly abusive containing numerous events of humiliation towards women. However, if women aren’t offended by the content shown in porn then how could society question a man’s enjoyment in watching a female being degraded. Pornography is often discussed throughout women’s magazines in which it becomes embraced; with journalists offering advice on how porn could become integrated into an individual own life. In defence of pornography women liberals believe that a woman’s body becomes a woman’s right in which she may enjoy any pleasure, whether or not it be degrading to others as each individual decides what liberating and demeaning may mean to themselves. Sexual, global socialization has had many consequences upon today’s culture, as years progress, pornography seems to become more acceptable, more accessible and more extreme. It becomes clear to see the factors in which have contributed the most towards the shift of pornography and to the change of outlooks towards the industry. By media producing sexually explicit material and publishing it for the nation to see, pornography industries have pushed themselves to their limits in order to provide new material to fulfil the needs and fantasies of its audience. Pornography has become legitimized and celebrated resulting in fewer cases of society being offended by its content. But is there more to come?

Haitian Culture: Impact on Nursing Care Essays -- essays research pape

Haitian Culture: Impact on Nursing Care   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Republic of Haiti is in the western part of the island of Hispaniola in the West Indies. It is densely populated and has the lowest per capita income in the western hemisphere (Kemp, 2001). The population of more than seven million is made up of mostly descendents of African slaves brought to the West Indies by French colonists. The horrible conditions in Haiti, such as crushing poverty, unemployment and illiteracy, and high rates of acute and chronic illnesses and child and infant mortality, result in the illegal immigration of many Haitians to the United States, France, and other countries in Western Europe. Most immigrants are adults and teens who leave Haiti in tiny boats, despite the risk of drowning and other hazards. According to Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) 2001 statistics, the number of refugees has declined to several thousand per year since the early 1990’s.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Nearly all Haitian immigrants entering the U.S. are poorly educated, illiterate, and speak only Creole, which is seldom seen in written form. Creole is a â€Å"pidgin† language, meaning it is a simplified form of a base language with parts of other languages added. These types of languages were frequently used by sailors, pirates, and other trade people to accommodate the span of communication needs they faced. Haitian Creole is thought to have been derived by combining various native African dialects with the French language of their owners. Very few Haitians (10%) can actually speak French, and one’s ability to do so is seen as an indicator of social class. Because of Haitian views that Creole is the language used by the poor and uneducated, many will claim to be able to speak French and become insulted if it is suggested that they speak Creole. This can pose a problem for the healthcare worker trying to find a way to communicate. Often the only in terpreters available to a family are their children who have learned English in schools here. This can create conflict within the family therefore a facility provided interpreter usually produces a better outcome. Written materials are often of no use to the Haitian immigrant.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Socioeconomic status plays a huge part in how Haitians identify themselves, and influences their actions greatly. Many Haitians wil... ...of exercise. These factors all contribute to the young life expectancy of about 49 years (World Health Organization, 2001). When caring for a client of Haitian descent, it is important to be mindful of language and education level, religious and cultural beliefs, and traditional health maintenance practices that may be incompatible with modern medicine. The healthcare provider should respect these cultural differences and be accommodating whenever possible to promote the spiritual and physical well-being of the client. References Ackerman, L.J. (1997). Health problems of refugees. Journal of the   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  American Board for Family Practice. 10,337-48. Minarik, P.A. (1996). Culture & nursing care: A pocket guide.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  San Francisco: UCSF Nursing Press. Pan American Health Organization (1999). Haiti: Country health profile.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Accessed 6/28/04. Spector, R.E. (2003). Cultural diversity in health and illness (6th ed).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Upper Saddle River: Prentice Hall. World Health Organization (2001). Healthy life expectancy rankings.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Accessed 6/28/04.

Sample for Meeting Minutes

Minutes of Meeting of Events Organizer Team Date: 1 Nov 2012 Time: 12: 00 p. m. Venue: Bilik Kuliah 2, PBPI Present: 1. Phang Yuen Jun 2. Juani Eyat Juleng 3. Tiang Leh Mei 4. Tan Hooi Gia 5. Kanagah A/P Raman 6. Siti Fatimah Abduh Razak 7. Yap Paul Yin 8. Sam Chee Xin In attendance: Madam Nadiah bt Zainal Abidin 1. 0 Objective Determination The team discussed about the objectives and event to be held. As a result, the team decided to organize a new year party for 2013. 2. 1 Event Description Title: 2013 New Year Celebration Party Objectives: To celebrate and welcome the new year with UTeM big family and the community * To promote the interaction between UTeM citizens and non- UTeM citizens * To promote and introduce UTeM to the community Venue: Main Hall, Main Campus, UTeM Attendee: Anyone (Al l UteM Citizens and outsiders) 2. 0 Roles Distribution in the Team The roles of the team were determined according to individual’s willingness and team’s agreement. The roles dis tribution is as below: Chairman: Siti Fatimah Abduh Razak Secretary: Tiang Leh Mei Treasurer: Tan Hooi Gia Food and beverage: Juani Eyat Juleng (decide the menu)Set Designer: Phang Yuen Jun Event Planner: Kanagah A/P Raman Publicity: Sam Chee Xin Sponsorship: Yap Paul Yin 3. 0 Other items to be discussed and decided The chairman asked the team members to do research on their individual role’s corresponding tasks. For the coming meeting, each of the members is able to propose his or her plan for the food menu, set design, events and publicity. They need to plan for the budget for each related field too. 4. 0 Date of next meeting The next meeting will be scheduled on 8th Nov 2012, 11am at Bilik Kuliah 2, PBPI. 5. 0 Closing addressThe chairman summarized the decision made in the meeting and thanked the advisor and the team members for having commited themselves to the project. The meeting was adjourned at 1:00 p. m. UTeM Events Organizer Team-2013 New Year Celebration Party AGEN DA Date: 8th Nov 2012 Time: 11:00 a. m. Venue: Bilik Kuliah 2, PBPI Order of business: 1. Chairman’s address 2. Minutes of the previous meeting 3. Matters arising out of the minutes 4. Reports from each sub-committees: * Food and beverage * Set Designer * Event Planner * Publicity * Treasurer * Sponsorship 5. Special business 6. Any other business 7. Date, time and place of next meeting 8. Close

Computer Based Learning †The Vikings Essay

The paper analyzes the effectiveness of computer based learning, factors that influence the learning process and the means of enhancing the technology towards a better instructional model. The Vikings – a learning package designed for history students is the base for this study. An evaluation of the package, its level of interactivity, the development model, its learning impact, and shortcomings are discussed in this paper. The paper also elaborates the changes in the design that will improve the learning model adopted in the Vikings package. The purpose of this paper is to establish the parameters that affect the learning process and how the computer based learning system can be used to make this learning process an enriching experience for the students. Computer Based Learning – A Brief The conventional classroom is slowly giving way to the computer based training applications that is universally accessible via the Internet. The personalized learning environment that this method offers has great potentials and can influence the learning process to a considerable degree. A successful prototype of this form of learning needs a high level of interactive media in tandem with an effective presentation of content that is simple to use and easy to relate. The market for this medium of learning has witnessed tremendous growth in the recent years with a wide variety of multimedia based learning tools available for the users. The use of multimedia and flash has not only made learning fun but has also facilitated retention and easy understanding of concepts. Many web based learning environments use innovative technologies that have revolutionized the learning process considerably over the past few years. Joyce A. Overfield and Lesley Bryan Lluka(2003) in their research article on evaluation of factors affecting computer based learning observe that computer based learning can be a valuable learning and teaching resource providing consideration is given to the nature of the student group. Availability and accessibility of computers is essential and students are unhappy if the support is lacking. These are some of the views that can aptly explain the effectiveness of the computer based learning system. This learning tool has improved learning experiences to a considerable extent as it does away with tedious conventional system of learning. The emergence of new technologies in this sector has collaborated to create a unique learning model for the students. This has not only set a new trend in learning but has revolutionized the way a student looks at his classroom project. Vikings – The Package The Vikings package is meant for students of history. The objective of the package is to impart historical facts and milestones to the students in a fun filled learning environment that makes the learning process easy and memorable. History has been labeled as a boring subject for many students and it can be a little tricky remembering facts and figures that relate to the distant past. The package uses maps and graphics to instill interest in the learner. The use of grid lines to mark specific study points and provide relevant information to the learner is a key feature of this package. The user needs to click on the relevant grid line to get details of the particular artefact related to the Vikings era. Terms used in the section are highlighted in red – a click on the highlighted term gives the user an explanation of the same. The developers of â€Å"The Vikings† claim that the package is highly interactive and excellent learning tool for students of history. The presentation of historical facts in a manner that facilitates learning is of prime importance in this application. The tool applies the concept of learning through activity and context based learning that ensures the involvement of the student throughout the learning process. This is in sharp contrast to the classroom learning process that is mostly abstract. A review of the two scenario presented below will make the contrast in both the learning modes clearer: Scenario 1: A teacher giving a lecture on the Vikings era and stating the facts verbally where the student has to be very attentive to relate the facts presented before him. Scenario 2: A student going through the Vikings package where a click of the mouse will give him the relevant information – pictorial description and maps on the screen relate to his cognitive senses and learning happens faster. The application uses the interactive instruction model that is designed to elicit some response in the user in the form of a mouse click. The programmed instruction with the aid of well-designed stimuli in the form of graphics acts as the user interface. A few basic factors that set the scenario 2 apart from scenario 1 are learner control, interaction level, learner motivation, collaborative learning, and navigation system that are discussed below. Learner Control Vaughan (1998) has described Computer Based Learning interactivity as empowering the end user of the package by letting them have control of the content and flow of information. The learning tool, â€Å"The Vikings†, simulates an environment where the control over learning is not completely in the hands of the student. The student decides the pace of learning but the path of learning is guided. In scenario 1 the student has to attend classes at the pre-defined timings and the teacher decides the topic of learning. In contrast the application allows the student the liberty to choose his topic of study and the sequence that he wants to follow at his own pace. It has been observed that by handing over the control of learning to the students enhances the learning experience. The advantages of learner control include greater individualization of instruction, increased sense of personal responsibility for learning, and the potential to optimize learning efficiency. (Interactivity: What is it and What can it do for computer based instruction? Terry K Borsook and Nancy Higginbotham-Wheat – Hannafin and Colamaio, 1987). A student who is a quick learner will have no problem going through the package and grasp the contents in one or two sittings. However, a slow learner will need time to grasp the information handed out – but he has the advantage of taking things slow and pacing his learning to his comfort level. The control of the learner over the entire learning process is seen as a positive reinforcement. The application should allow the student to decide his path of learning. An ideal learning application provides regulated control to the learner with the scope of browsing through the modules, set his learning objectives and pace of learning. Any additional related information or links to these should be provided to enable the student to look up on these extra bits of information. This not only enriches the learning experience but also boosts the confidence level of the learner. A systematic approach and relevant content packaged with attractive and compelling presentation will result in a satisfying learning experience. One of the concerns that have been observed is that giving too much of control over the learning experience may not be good since the learner does not know what is best for him. Borsook and Higginbotham-Wheat (1991) state that too much of control in the hands of the learner can shift the locus of control from one party to another and that diminishes true interactivity. Regulated control with guided flow of information is a better option. The Vikings package gives very less control to the student – the flow of information is directed by the package but this is one of the shortcomings of the tool. Allowing more leverage to the learner will make the learning tool more effective as this results in positive attitude towards learning and motivates them towards their learning goals. Interaction level The most effective teaching method involves a high level of interaction between the teacher and the student. A dedicated teacher is one who understands the student’s learning capacity and his shortcomings and guides him through with effective feedback. A two-way communication between the teacher and the student is very effective in the learning process. Computer based learning applications are continually striving to achieve the human to human interactivity level and have been quite successful in this venture with the aid of multimedia based technologies. The level of interactivity in the learning application tool is of prime importance for it to be effective. The representation of information through graphics and on screen presentation is the required stimuli that elicit some sort of response from the user, such as a mouse click. The application tool then responds to the user with relevant data. This process of interactivity in the application makes the learning process effective. Feedback is an integral part of interactivity. Berlo (1960) states in his work â€Å"feedback provides the source with information concerning his success in accomplishing his objective. † A classroom lecture where the teacher gives lecture to the class without class participation is quite ineffective. It is difficult to gauge in such a situation if the learning process was successful. An understanding of the student’s perception of the contents is essential. This is one of the essential features that a learning application tool should incorporate for it to be a successful learning model. The instructional design should take care that the learning model has scope to interact closely with the learner and guide him through the process for effective learning experience. The level of interactivity and feedback element present in â€Å"The Vikings† application is not substantial. A student going through the package is only following instructions that are being presented to him. Statements like â€Å"Click here to begin† and â€Å"Choose your artefact and click on the square to travel back in time† – these are some of the instructions that are provided to the student. This generates response from the student in the mode of mouse-click and the application narrates the relevant contents on the screen. The student needs to go through this text but this does not ensure learning. The application has no way of evaluating if the student has perceived the information presented to him correctly. There is no feedback mechanism that is applied in this model. This leaves the learning model incomplete. Proper feedback and evaluation gives the student a sense of his learning objectives and how much he has succeeded in this direction. Constructive feedback gives the student a clear picture of how much he has learnt, where he went wrong and what he should do to correct his mistake. Modes of interaction between the learner and the learning application model can be identified at different levels. The basic form of interaction is one that presents the stimuli to the learner and elicits some kind of response in the form of a mouse click or key press. A higher level of interaction that ensures the effectiveness of the learning process involves evaluating activities presented to the learner at the end of a module to gauge his understanding and performance level. This form of interaction gives a clear picture of the learner’s progress as feedback. The inclusion of this parameter in the instructional design of the learning application model is vital. Directing the learner to key learning points and providing links to related concepts enhances the quality of learning and promotes better understanding of the subject matter. Instances of such interactivity are problem-solving modules, puzzles, quiz, and brain twisters that ensure active participation from the learner. Engaging the learner in different kinds of activities related to the context enhances the learning process. This not only ensures that the learner has successfully grasped the contents but also increases the effectiveness of the model. One of the benefits of such activities is the interest level that is created in this type of learning environment. Learning becomes a fun activity and not a dreaded cumbersome experience that one goes through reluctantly. Once the interest level is high the learner is ready for more. He is willing to explore the unknown territories in pursuit of an in-depth understanding of the context. The learning process in such cases is unintentional and not deliberate and hence more effective. The multimedia and other high-end technology available have the potential to achieve this dream-learning model. Another key feature that determines the effectiveness of the learning application model is the quality of content. An application may provide all the features of good interactivity and presentation in terms of graphics and display, but a poor quality of content will negate all the rest. A package rich relevant content with suitable links to additional related information will ensure learning effectiveness. This leaves the control of learning in the hands of the learner. An individual may wish to go beyond the realms of his subject matter and explore other related areas in this way. Simulated learning environment in computer-based interaction is another excellent tool for learning. Simulations use selected elements of some world, real or imaginary, which operate together according to rules (Greenblat 1988). In such cases the learner can experience an imaginary sequence in which he can interact and learn. This kind of learning experience is a gradual process where the learner is allowed to make mistakes and learn. Teaching the history of Vikings era using this mechanism is not only an interesting option but also a powerful learning tool. It might be adventurous to move into the Vikings era and view the events of the past unfold in front of the student. The narration of the events in the background in synchronization with suitable graphics and animation will surely captivate the student’s attention and allow for greater learning experience. But it must be kept in mind that simply viewing the events of the past as an audience is not enough – the active participation of the learner is equally important to hold his interest level and retain the subject matter. Learner Motivation Kruse (2007) states that the success of any computer based learning package depends on learner motivation and even the most sophisticated package will fail if it does not motivate the students to learn. Computer games have managed to captivate the user’s attention to such an extent that everything else is forgotten. This is a classic example of motivation and interest that this type of software generates in the user. Educational models too can apply this theory while designing the learning package. The essential ingredient that is required to hold the learner’s attention is the active role of the learner in the learning process. There are several ways of ensuring that the learner actively takes the control of learning in his own hands. The interactivity of the learning package is one of the deciding factors that motivate the learner to proceed. The system should allow the learner to steer the path of learning. Enabling the student to browse the information and guiding him through the learning process will hold the student’s interest and motivate him to learn more. Structuring the learning content into a story telling format with compelling dramatic sequence will keep the student highly engrossed. The absorption of the learning material will be faster and effective. The Vikings package does not include this feature and the presentation of facts is in form of text that the student needs to go through. The effect of presenting the same facts through narration in the background will hold the student’s attention and interest. The ARCS Model of Motivational Design by Keller provides the direction to successful instructional design in this context. The ARCS model identifies four strategic components for motivating instruction. One of the basic parameters for keeping the student interested and motivated in the subject matter is his attention. Computer based learning has an edge over other conventional tools of learning like books in this context. The visibility and presentation of information through attention grabbing graphics and multimedia tool make this a more effective learning platform. Once the attention of the student is on the learning tool the application needs to stimulate the learner’s curiosity that in turn leads to search for answers and in-depth study of the learning module. The relevance of the content is another aspect that is important in learner motivation. This is a more goal centric strategy that appeals to the objective needs of the student. The objectivity of the study needs to be defined so that the student is aware of the purpose behind this learning activity. This keeps the student focused on his goal and helps him in the learning process. The application needs to arrange the information in such a manner that the student finds it easy to approach and understand. The sequencing and relevance of the information presented to him is vital. Correlating the tasks and facts in the learning module need to be very precise. The next step in motivating students is confidence-building strategy. The goal of this mechanism is to instill confidence in the learner that he is on the right track and that his learning objectives are being met. There are various technologies available that can be effectively used to evaluate the student’s understanding level of the module and based on this evaluation effective feedback is given to the student regarding his progress. Tasks for evaluating should range from simple to challenging levels that test the student’s perception. This challenges the student to go from one level to the other and enhances the learning process. The satisfaction of the learning experience is critical for measuring the effectiveness of the overall package. The achievement of meeting the goals of learning forms the base for a satisfying learning experience. Positive reinforcement and constructive feedback mechanism are instrumental in achieving this strategy. The Vikings package will attract the attention of the user with its graphical and pictorial representation but that is not enough. It is difficult to hold the interest of the learner with only graphical presentation of information. The student will very easily get bored with the facts presented in this manner. The package needs to adopt novel strategies to hold the student’s attention for a longer period of time. Use of storytelling mechanism, simulations and activity based learning modules as discussed earlier will motivate the student and enrich the learning experience. Collaborative Learning When students are able to participate in active learning activities, they find the learning more pleasurable and satisfying than non participative events (Fry and Coe,1980). The principle of collaborative learning provides many learning opportunities and enriches the learning experience considerably. A learning environment that allows interaction between the learners is highly conducive. A classroom environment provides this kind of scope to the students where a group of students sharing the same learning goal coordinate with each other, communicate their ideas, and share their understanding of the subject matter. Jonassen (1988) has stated in his works that the effectiveness of any learning environment is based on the types and levels of cognitive and metacognitive activity engendered in the learners. It is widely accepted that learning is enhanced in instructional settings where students are engaged in processing personally relevant content and are reflective during the learning process. Another feature of this learning principle as suggested by Slavin (1997) is that the reward structures inherent in collaborative environments have been found to have a positive effect on student motivation. Computers provide a stimulus for learning by increasing social interactions and cooperation (eg. Hoyles, Healy & Pozzi, 1992). The application of this mode of learning can be effectively used in computer based learning with the aid of various multimedia and authoring technologies available. The Vikings uses one such strategy in its learning application – the principle of situated learning or situated cognition. This is defined as â€Å"the notion of learning knowledge and skills in contexts that reflect the way the knowledge will be useful in real life† (Brown, Collins and Dugiud, 1989). The application is meant for two or more students at a time with the same learning objectives. The discussion of the facts and information between the groups of learners ensures the understanding of the subject matter. The collaboration between the students and the package offer an effective learning environment. One of the discrepancies of this learning principle is that collaborative learning may not have the desired outcome if the learners do not share the learning goals. Exchange of views and ideas may not enrich the learning experience, as some of the learners may not be attentive to what is being discussed around him. History is a subject that explores the past and discovers the roots of civilization and the world. The Vikings application aims to present the facts from the Vikings era to enable the students an understanding of how things were in those times. As such the application should aim at providing facts from the past that enables a better understanding of the world today. The Vikings package can implement some more principles of collaborative learning to create and effective learning environment. Use of interactive multimedia packages that enable the application to converse with the student and provide scope for evaluating the student’s knowledge and understanding of the subject matter is one method. Other methods involve the use of audio and visual depictions that is bound to impact the learner’s cognitive senses.

OCD2 essays

OCD2 essays I. Definition of obsessive compulsive disorder We all have quirks that take up small bits of the day. Very often, people wrestling with an obsessive compulsive disorder invest hours of their day avoiding these concerns. People with an obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) have an intolerance and rejection of a mental experience that generates a tremendous amount of agitation and anxiety over losing control of ones mind. It seems as if that one aspect of OCD is and overactive conscience (Article on Scrupulosity). The definition of obsessive compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder that is characterized by repetitive, irrational, intrusive thoughts, impulses or images and irresistible impulses to engage repeatedly in some acts Individuals with an obsessive compulsive disorder do not want or enjoy the obsessive thoughts or time-consuming compulsions. They think of them as excessive and feel as if they interfere with daily functions. The reason for this caution and avoidance of details is simple: many people with OCD are troubled by very explicit, offensive, and socially horrifying, The most common and well-studied branch of OCD involves the OC where the undoing response generally involves some overt behavior. The presence of dirt evokes a sense of threat and an incredible inspiration to reduce contamination. Most commonly the escape ritual involves a cleaning response. The next common form of OCD involves checking. The overwhelming impulse to recheck remains until the person experiences a reduction in tension despite the realizations that the item is secure. A less common form of OCD includes hoarding, which is the excessive saving of typically worthless items. Ordering is a subcatagory where persons feel compelled to place items in a designated spot or order. This person fears a sense of being overwhelmed and impending anarchy if items are not placed ...

Mediation paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Mediation paper - Essay Example emerge from two sources, either as of emerging from the light or as of going into the light.† Photography with photographs are instruments which allow us go into light as well as come out of light. Susan Sontag says that In Plato’s Cave, â€Å"photographs furnish evidence,† therefore, in that manner, they serve as evidence that somebody has moved out there and observed the planet. Pictures cannot get captured devoid of considering the planet, whether by means of your vision or by camera lens. Nevertheless, simultaneously, photography takes as away from an occasion, prevents us from actually getting into conduct with it, and furthermore thus turning the images into â€Å"shadows of each other.† Sontag suggests that â€Å"a camera’s representation of realism should at all times conceal too much than it reveals,† every person takes their own distinctive viewpoint into the understanding of any painting. Photographs frequently uphold a vacuum of anonymity if they are not followed by narration. Hence, intention of the photographer can get lost inside the predetermined viewpoints that each spectator puts into consideration if understanding an image. Additionally, rigid photographers may attempt to reveal actuality; each minute choice they create twists the snap in their understanding of the earth. According to Sontag, â€Å"photographs are to a great extent world interpretations like works of art and drawings† (Sontag 6). Within one such snap, with both its preconceptions along with my exceptional elucidation of it, a youngster is starting at a police officer in the company of a smiling face. The police officer leans down, possibly to structure for the disparity in tallness involving them. Also, they create a kind of quasi encircle, standing separately from the remaining crowd, creating their small planet at that time. The mass is composed of nearly completely of grownups standing the footways as well they are both facing in the similar direction. Similarly, heads

Chlamydia Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

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