Saturday, August 31, 2019

Dr. Jr

1) Describe what occurs in each of the four parts of the hydrologic cycle and how each part of the hydrologic cycle is related to the next part of the cycle. The four parts of the hydrologic cycle are evaporation, condensation, precipitation and runoff. Water evaporated from the ocean eventually condenses as water droplets in clouds. If the cloud grows large enough, the droplets coalesce and fall as precipitation, mostly as rain, sometimes as snow or ice.The cycling of water molecules from the ocean to the atmosphere to the land and back to the ocean. 2) Examine the northwestern portion in the country of Brazil in Figures 2-33, 4-14 and 4-22. a) What type of climate does northwestern Brazil experience? Humid Equatorial b) What type of soil does northwestern Brazil have? c) What type of biome is located in northwestern Brazil? 3) Based on your answers from #2, explain the relationships that exist between the climate, soil and biome of northwestern Brazil. ) According to Figure 4-22, i n which major terrestrial biome is eastern Nebraska classified? What major terrestrial biome classification is located to the east of that found in eastern Nebraska? Which climate factor (temperature or precipitation) explains the difference between the two biomes? 5) Explain the terms deforestation and desertification. Give one example of how the two are different. Give one example of how the two are similar. ) What is the difference between a renewable and a nonrenewable resource? Give one example of each. 7) What is temperature inversion, and how does it affect urban air pollution problems? 8) What is meant by the term â€Å"nonpoint source pollution†? List two examples. 9) Describe, with an example of each, the influences of cultural values, level of technology, and economic systems on natural resource value. 10) Explain two arguments for and two arguments against nuclear power.

Friday, August 30, 2019

Multinational Expansion Of Companies Essay

Ghe increasing multinational expansion of companies requires individuals who can perform effectively across national borders by handling cross national job assignments (Stahl & Bjorkman 2006). Expatriates/international assignees are employees who work outside their national borders. A lot depends on human resource (HR) management in selecting appropriate workforce and rewarding them accordingly in company’s best interests. HR managers need to show expertise in choosing suitable personnel for international assignments based on employee’s personal characteristics, interests, overseas experience and the type international assignment. Moreover, it becomes the responsibility of HR managers to look after compensation packages, and compliance with regional work standards and government policies. Hence, it is necessary to review all these issues in detail to gain an idea on the role of HR professionals in relation to international assignees. Firstly, to understand the aspects of expatriate selection and functions, it is first necessary to review the reason for global expansion of companies and their requirements. Companies Go Global   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There are various reasons for companies choosing international existence. They include increased pressure on costs, search for new markets, greater customer demands and product and service qualities, government policies, search and desire for technology development, worldwide communication and information flow, increasing global opportunities with interdependence of nations in trading blocs, integrating cultures and values leading to common consumer demands, availability of skilled workforce, decreasing trade barriers, and E-commerce (Briscoe & Schuler 2004).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This increasing globalization requires companies to look for employees with ability to operate at varied conditions. Accordingly, various criteria are set for the selection of international assignees. International assignees may be parent-country nationals (PCNs), host-country nationals (HCNs) or third-country nationals (TCNs) Selection of International Assignees   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Human resource (HR) managers have a major role in selecting international assignees. The highly followed selection process includes self-selection, creating a candidate pool, technical skills assessment and making a mutual decision (Frazee 1998).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   HR management has to consider several criterion before selecting the candidates, such as candidate’s maturity, ability to handle foreign languages, possession of favorable outlook on the international assignment by the expatriate and his/her family (Briscoe & Schuler 2004). Apart from these personal characteristics like health, desire for the assignment, individual resourcefulness and adaptability are very important.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   International assignees should have various qualities such as computer literacy, prudent negotiating skills, ability as a change agent, visionary skills and effective delegatory skills (Briscoe & Schuler 2004). Functions of International Assignees   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The functions of international assignees may include all or any of the following areas depending on job responsibilities. Technical responsibilities Managerial responsibilities Cultural responsibilities such as interacting with local nationals and local communities In general, global long term assignments may vary between two and five years. In long term assignments employees are generally loaned to the host company by the home company (Mullaney 2007, p. 3). The position and seniority of the assignee often determine the nature of the assignment package. Executive assignees are seen as prominent members of the local management team, whereas assignees at manager level or below are credited with career development opportunity. An Insight on the Roles of HR Managers In the current globalization arena, the role of human resource (HR) personnel in relation to international assignments should be viewed in specific perspectives: human resource personnel and international assignees, and the role of past experience in dealing with diverse employees. Whatever the role is, the basic requirements are openness to people, flexibility, autonomy, and career motivation (Frazee, 1998, p. 29). Firstly, the phases in selection of international assignees can be described as self-selection, creation of a candidate pool, assessment of technical skills, and making a mutual decision. Firstly, the candidate has to self analyze whether he or she can be a global assignee. Moreover, the favorability of family and other conditions need to be evaluated. In selecting global assignees, it is better to opt for self-selection than traditional selection. While traditional selection in meant for choosing assignees by employers through various interviews and tests, self-selection promotes self-assessment of candidates and decide on whether or not to go for the next step for selection process (Frazee, 1998, p. 29). The factors of self-selection include personality and individual characteristics, career and family issues. According to Johns, in case of personnel who shift from another position to HR, the experience in past positions and the change of influencing abilities pertaining to the post may help perform better as a HR manager in dealing with employees from different backgrounds (as cited in Frazee, 1998, p. 52).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Furthermore, HR managers do have a major role in proper orientation of global assignees and making them adjust with new environment. Moreover, HR personnel need to evaluate the costs associated with expatriate programs. Finally, they may have to deal with situations where employees may rise about differences in compensation between local and global assignees. Requirements of International Business Management in the Context of HR Professional in Working with International Assignees In my opinion, such requirements as workforce planning and staffing, training and health safety, and Crisis Management are the central issues of international business management in the context of HR profession when working with international assignees. The most significant subject for planning of training for international assignees is the importance of understanding the restricted culture and language. The organization of the compensation programs for multiple workforces around the world is a compound and not an easy work that is put into effect with the help of the balance sheet approach.   Health and safety practices vary among countries as per related laws in those countries. However, HR managers should understand and cope with business decisions that are concerned with strategies, health and safety systems, and different practices faced in countries that may have an impact upon workforces and employee relations between international assignees. So, the requirements include learning the laws, systems of working and understanding the cultures of the countries. Global HR activities that involve preparation, scheming, structuring, implementing, organizing, or developing may be unsuccessful if they are used without considering the differences in countries. Successful processes and systems that are used in one country may fail when they are used in the same way in another one. All the aspects of the international business have a human element. The human recourse management was underestimated for a long time, but its functions and roles, nowadays, are accepted to be one of the most important. Nevertheless, ‘the HR professionals must first learn the geography and characteristics of the field’ (Ohmae, 1990). Potential Involvement of International HRM   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   With the increasing human resource problems in the multinational companies due to increased global operations, it has become to necessary to redefine the scope and role of the human resource management.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   International HRM should be involved as a active partner in formulating global strategies. Necessary skills need to be imparted into senior HR professional through proper training. HR professionals should lead developing processes and activities involving emerging strategies (Briscoe & Schuler 2004, p. 398). Companies should facilitate the development of global strategies by finding out the skills necessary for management and employees, and a major role should be played by the HR department in accomplishing it (Briscoe & Schuler 2004, p. 398). Enhanced interaction is essential among line management, HR personnel and workgroups. Moreover, it is better to decentralize the functions of the headquarters IHR departments. Also, main HR departments should assign basic administrative responsibilities to venders with expertise in HR activities, as the main departments will need to deal with many growing global responsibilities (Briscoe & Schuler 2004, p. 398). Expatriate Performance, Training and Interactions Joint ventures and foreign subsidiaries are usually structured and organized much like their mother companies; the only distinction is that they have both expatriate and local managers. That’s why the international business operations are more difficult and have more complex structure than the domestic business operations. â€Å"Regardless of the effectiveness or availability of Performance Management (PM) tools, expatriate PM success depends largely on the manager and expatriate in question: how well they both understand, internalize, and accept PM, and how skillful they are in its implementation. To this end, appropriate PM training should be available for all expatriates, including their superiors.† (Johnson 2003). The high level of the performance management of the expatriate leads to improvements in their careers and company’s development.   The performance management system that is used in the global business includes a lot of areas of international human recourse management responsibility, such as evaluating foreign managers and international assignees for pay increases. However, one of the most important obstacles to the successful administration and progress of these managers and international assignees is the regular require of recognition of the value of their overseas experience and expatriation, in general, and the casualness with which companies often evaluate these international assignees foreign performance. Certainly, big enterprises that have a lot of overseas assignees and many foreign subsidiaries say that ‘most (83%) do not use performance management to measure international assignees’ success. And many (35%) don’t use any type of measurement at all.’ (Andersen 1999, p. 18) One of the most important factors that influences upon the international assignees’ performance is the performance appraisal system of the company. However the correct and effective system of the performance appraisals is not an easy task even in the native country. The knowledge and the skills that have to be developed by the international assignees differ a lot from the abilities of the workers of the company that is located in the native country should have.   The international assignee and other foreign managers have to increase and make use of the knowledge that is necessary for any managerial assignment without any doubt. The requirement for more number of highly qualified human resource personnel has resulted in the need to use larger numbers of foreign nationals. ‘Most multinational firms favor hiring local nationals for foreign subsidiaries, home-country nationals at headquarters, and, where a regional organization exists, a mix of foreign and home-country managers for regional positions.’ (Johnson 2003) Thanks to such method of international HR management the ethnic groups unite usually varies with the environment of a firm’s business and with the product strategy. So, the role of the staff that works at the native country diminishes in the case of lowering the importance of the area expertise. The principal subject for a large amount of companies in the management of their international assignment system is the arrangement of the competing interests of the firm, international HR management, and the international assignees and family. The business that is concerned about its globalization requires fast deed in order to produce innovative revenues, and to direct the expenses and threats involved with doing that. International human resource department requires adequate lead time to discover and choose successful international assignees. As Ohmae (1990) writes ‘they need a low enough case load of international assignees to be able to provide good service; they want to be able to apply an effective process for selecting and developing quality of international assignees candidates; and they desire to be able to apply a consistent policy of treatment of international assignees.’ International assignees themselves, and their families, need sufficient compensation for the individual and profession sacrifice they make while they relocate; they would like their family concerns to be given essential priority; and they look ahead to   be able to come back to a profession promotion that   takes benefit of their foreign practice. So, the way to success in the global operations is to satisfy the needs of companies and the needs of international assignees. The role of international assignees is very significant; because whether the business strategy will be clear and understandable all over the world depend on their working performance. In order to improve the results of the work there are a large amount of programs that consist of relevance, acceptability, sensitivity and practicality. The factor of relevance means that the HR manager and the worker should realize the relevance of their labor in the general activity and to evaluate the situation correctly. Acceptability is the right evaluation of the job from the side of the HR manager and the diligent execution of the duties by the expatriate. It needs to be seen as fair, reasonable, and accurate. Sensitivity is the attitude of the administration that includes taking into consideration cultural differences and adequacy in evaluating the business reality. The fact that the programs should be practical for the expatriates is also important. They should correspond to the business strategy and be not difficult to execute but not to simple. In this case there is a threat that such program will be done partially. These entire characteristics have to be implemented by the HR managers and need special attention. Compensation for International Assignees   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   International HR department has to create compensation packages that appropriate for employees and profitable to the companies. The components of a balance sheet approach that are helpful in determining expatriate compensation are described below. Home-country salaries International standard Regional standard Better of home or host policy Expatriate Failures The three main reasons for expatriate failure are inappropriate selection, inadequate preparation and the stress associated with expatriation (Enderwick & Dunning 1994). Proper training of expatriates before giving international assignments is necessary to overcome failure. All in all, performance of international assignees depends greatly on proper selection and training. Moreover, appropriate compensation packages are necessary. Women as International Assignees   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Coming to the gender differences in international assignees, there are important aspects to consider. It has been observed that though the number of women employees is increasing over the years, they are not making a substantiate percentage in international assignments. To be precise, in spite of having 47% women workforce in the United States by 1998, only 13% to 14% were selected for international assignments (Varma et al. 2004). Also, in spite of having 30% female students in MBA programs in the US, only 14% are being selected by corporate America for international postings (Koretz, 1999).   Furthermore, the estimated number of female expatriates is between 2 and 5 percent only (Harris, 1993).There are multiple reasons for this scenario.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The important cause is the reluctance of management to send women employees abroad stating that they face more prejudice than men at the new workplace. Also, supervisor-subordinate relationship seems to be an important factor. It was found that female employees showed higher agreement with female supervisors than males (Varma et al. 2004). It becomes crucial, as most of cases require women to interact with male supervisors.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Other related reasons can be explained such as over estimation of women’s problems at workplace by males, and lower availability of corporate development programs such as fast track programs, individual career counseling and career planning workshops for women. Further reasons include the traditional confinement of women to only certain job categories, socio-cultural issues of host countries and the problems of dual career couples. Conclusion In conclusion it is necessary to say that global HRM is more democratic than it was earlier. It provides employees with lots of opportunities and possibilities without paying attention to such factors as cultural characteristics or racial prejudices. Global HRM tries to present cultural diversity at all level of organizations. HRM model in public sector is characterized by lifetime employment, social cohesiveness and seniority wages. The vitality of organization is less important in the country that family ties and friendship. It is seen that GCC countries are not greatly influenced by globalization processes. Managers try to promote their relatives instead of teaching staff how to work. HRM model in the private sector is only on the evolution stage. It is still trying to find innovative ways how to manage the staff effectively. It is recommended for strategic human resource management of future to be characterized by cultural diversity and equal job opportunities for all people. HRM should use the concepts of globalization and labor division in order to achieve highest results. HRM should provide qualified employees with proper positions. Human resource managers should also have highest qualification and professionalism to achieve company’s goals and objectives. One more recommendation is to create more job places and to provide people with them. The cultural dimensions of power distance index, individualism, masculinity, uncertainly avoidance index and long-term orientation are necessary to be studied by the HR managers. The improvements of the programs that are aimed at the expatriate’s learning should include relevance, acceptability, sensitivity and practicality. As the result the production will increase as well as the organization’s revenue and profits. All in all, HR management has a great responsibility in company’s success pertaining to international assignments. They need to identify required personnel with adequate skills and experience to carry out international assignments. HR managers should plan proper reward packages to retain efficient employees on international assignments. Moreover, they need to adjust existing and adopt new policies in order to gain compliance with respective country’s policies and standards. Also, they are supposed to plan and implement relevant training for employees to perform effectively as international assignees. References 1998, ‘ROI on International Assignees’, HR Focus, Vol. 75, no. 3, p. S5. Briscoe, D. R. & Schuler, R. 2004, International Human Resource Management, Second Edition, Routledge, London and New York. Budhwar, Pawan. Human Resource Management in Developing Countries. London:   Routledge. Chiavenato, Idalberto. 2001. â€Å"Advances and Challenges in Human Resource Management in the New Millennium†. Public Personnel Management,30, pp. 17-25. Dunning, Joseph. 1999. Governments, Globalization and International Business. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Eaton, Jack 2000. â€Å"Transnational Companies, Globalization and Industrial†, Comparative Employment Relations, Cambridge, Polity Press. Enderwick, P. & Dunning, J. H. 1994, Transnational Corporations and Human Resources, vol. 16, Routledge, New York. Frazee, V. 1998, ‘An HR Pro Forges a Well-rounded perspective’, Workforce, Vol. 77, no. 2, p. 52. Frazee, V. 1998, ‘No Common Thread in Expat Selection’, Workforce, 4, 4, p. 9. Frazee, V. 1998, ‘Selecting Global Assignees’, Workforce, 3, no. 4, pp. 28-30. Harris, H. 1993, ‘Women in international management: Opportunity or threat?’,Women in Management Review,8, no. 5, pp. 9-14. Hofstede, Geert.1998. International and Cross-Cultural Management Research. Sage: Jean Claude Usunier. Iii, Edward E. Lawler. 2003. Creating a Strategic Human Resources Organization: An Assessment of Trends and New Directions. Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press. Johnson, David. 2003. International Business: Themes and Issues in the Modern Global Economy. London: Routledge. Kim, Pan Suk. 1999. â€Å"Globalization of Human Resource Management: A Cross-Cultural Perspective for the Public Sector†. Public Personnel Management, vol. 28, pp. 27-37 Koretz, G. 1999, ‘A Woman’s Place Is..  :Men Frown on Female Execs Abroad’, Business Week, 3646, no. 28, p. 28. Less Available to Female than to Male Expatriates?’, Journal of Business Ethics, 43, no.  ½, pp. 125-136. Mullaney, E. 2007, ‘Global Mobility in a Brave New World’, International Assignment Perspectives, PricewaterhouseCoopers, pp. 1-54. Ohmae, K. 1990. The Borderless World. New York: HarperCollins. Rowden, Robert W. 1999. â€Å"Potential Roles of the Human Resource Management Professional in the Strategic Planning Process†. SAM Advanced Management Journal, vol. 64, pp. 22-28. Selmer, J. and Leung, A. S. M. 2003, ‘Are Corporate Career Development Activities Sims, Ronald R 2002. Organizational Success through Effective Human Resources Management. Westport, CT: Quorum Books. Solomon, C. M. 1997, ‘Destination U.S.A.’, Workforce, pp. 18-22. Sparrow, Paul, Brewster, Chris and Harris, Hilary. 2004 â€Å"Globalization and HRM†, Globalizing Human Resource Management, Oxon, Routledge. Spring, Joel. 1998. Education and the Rise of the Global Economy. Albany, NY: State University of New York Press. Stahl, G. K. & Bjorkman, I. 2006, Handbook of Research in International Human Resource Management, Edward Elgar. Varma, A., Stroh, L. K. & Schmitt, L. B. 2001, ‘Women and International Assignments:   The Impact of Supervisor-subordinate Relationships’, Journal of World Business, vol. 36, no. 4, pp. 380-388.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

1957 and Soil

The students study a range of soil characteristics and seek to understand their relationship to soil function, land use, plant growth, environmental quality, and society/culture. This course introduces students to the variety and complexity of soils on a local, national, and international scale. This introductory course in soil science introduces the student to the study, management, and conservation of soils as natural bodies, as media for plant growth, and as components of the larger ecosystem. This course presents basic concepts of all aspects of soil science including: composition and genesis; physical, chemical, and biological properties; soil water; classification and mapping; soil conservation; management practices; and soil fertility and productivity including practices of soil testing, use of fertilizers and manures, and liming. The course introduces the relationships of soil to current concerns such as environmental quality and non-agricultural land use. This course should instill awareness of soil as a basic natural resource, the use or abuse of which has a considerable influence on human society and life in general. This course is required or on a list from which students select for many environmental and agriculturalrelated majors. It is specifically listed as a prerequisite for many other SOILS courses and for several soils-related courses taught at Penn State. This course also satisfies the requirement for 3-credits in the natural sciences (GN), for non-science maojors or any student interested in soils, ecology, or the environment. Course Objectives: At the end of this course, students should be able to: ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? Appreciate the variety and complexity of soils. Describe the ways in which soils are an integral component of the terrestrial ecosystem. Use the technical terminology associated with the description and use of soils. Identify soil properties important to land use, environmental quality, plant growth and society/culture. Demonstrate skills required to make field observations and interpretations of soils for various uses. Retrieve and use information from a variety of sources for land use planning and soil management decisions. Explain the impact of land use and management decisions on agricultural productivity and sustainability, environmental and ecological health, and land degradation. Understand how soils can affect everyday decisions like how to develop a garden or where to build a house. – page 2 – Instructor: Dr. Mike Fidanza 234 Luerssen Office: 610-396-6330 Cell: 484-888-6714 E-mail: fidanza@psu. edu Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 9:00 am – 9:50 am, and 11:00 am – 11:50 am; or, by appointment (call or e-mail to schedule an appointment) Class Lecture: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 125 Luerssen Building, 10:00 am – 10:50 am. Required Textbook: Brady, N. C. and R. R. Weil. Elements of the Nature and Properties of Soils. 3rd edition*. Pearson/Prentice-Hall, Upper Saddle River, NJ. *or earlier editions are acceptable Grading: 4 exams †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 300 points †¢ lowest exam score dropped †¢ 3 exams X 100 points per exam = 300 points total 15 quizzes †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 150 points †¢ 15 quizzes X 10 points per quiz = 150 points total Soils Writing Assignment . †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 50 points †¢ Fertilizer Worksheet —————————————————————————————— ——–Total †¦.. 500 points Final Grade will be based on the following scale: Points Grade Points Grade ? 465 A 385 – 399 C+ 450 – 464 A350 – 384 C 435 – 449 B+ 300 – 349 D 415 – 434 B ? 299 F 400 – 414 B- Exams: Exam format is typically multiple choice, true/false, and matching. Exact content and format of each exam will be discussed in class by the instructor. The lowest exam score of the four exams will be dropped, therefore, only the top three exam scores will count towards the final course grade. Quizzes: Quiz format is typically multiple choice, true/false, and/or matching delivered online through the ANGEL course website. Exact content and format of each quiz will be discussed in class by the instructor and/or information will be available on the ANGEL course website. Soils Writing Assignment: To be explained in class. – page 3 Class Attendance and Etiquette: Attendance is highly recommended since some lecture information will not be found in the text, and handouts and other supplemental material will be available only on the day on which they are presented in class. Class attendance and participation may be considered toward your final grade. Attendance will be recorded on a random basis, however daily attendance may be recorded if absenteeism or lateness is a problem. Appropriate and respectful behavior is always expected. Also, please silence cell phones during class time. Academic Integrity: Students are expected to be familiar with the University Rules and Policies regarding academic integrity. Refer to the Penn State Berks Campus Student Handbook, or locate the document on Penn State’s website, which can be accessed through any computer terminal connected to the PSU Center for Academic Computing. Academic integrity is defined as the pursuit of scholarly activity free from fraud and deception. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to: cheating, failure to protect your work from others (or facilitating acts of academic dishonesty by others), plagiarism, fabrication of information or citations, unauthorized prior possession of examinations, submitting the work of another person or work previously used without informing the instructor, or tampering with the academic work of others. A student charged with academic dishonesty will be given oral and written notice of the charge by the instructor. If the student feels that they have been falsely accused, they should seek redress through informal discussions with the instructor (first), division or department head, dean, or CEO. If the instructor believes the infraction to be sufficiently serious to warrant referral of the case to the Office of Conduct Standards, or result in a grade of â€Å"F† for the student for the course, the student and faculty instructor will be afforded formal due process procedures outlined in the University Rules and Policies mentioned above. Academic dishonesty will be dealt with strictly and in accordance with Pennsylvania State University policy. Disclaimer: The class schedule, policies, statements, and assignments in this course are subject to change in the event of extenuating circumstances or by mutual agreement between the instructor and the students. **** Weather Emergency: Call 610-396-6375 for up-to-date Berks Campus information. **** – page 4 – Date: Jan Jan Jan 7 9 11 M W F Topic: Introduction and course administration Introduction to soil science Introduction to soil science (continued) Textbook Chapter: 1 1 1 Jan Jan Jan 14 16 18 M W F Soil formation Soil formation Soil formation 2 2 2 Jan Jan Jan 21 23 25 M W F NO CLASS – Martin Luther King Day Soil classification Soil classification –3 3 Jan Jan Feb 28 30 1 M W F Soil classification Exam #1, chapters 1, 2, 3 Soil physical properties 3 –4 Feb Feb Feb 4 6 8 M W F Soil physical properties Soil physical properties Soil physical properties 4 4 4 Feb Feb Feb 11 13 15 M W F Soil water Soil water Soil and the hydrologic cycle 5 5 6 Feb Feb Feb 8 20 22 M W F Soil and the hydrologic cycle Soil aeration and temperature Soil aeration and temperature 6 7 7 Feb Feb Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar 25 27 1 411 13 15 M Clays and soil chemistry W Exam #2, chapters 4, 5, 6, 7 F Clays and soil chemistry 8 NO CLASS – Spring Break M Clays and soil chemistry W Soil acidity and other properties F Soil acidity and other properties 8 –8 Mar Mar Mar 18 20 22 M W F Soil biology and ecology Soil biology and ecology Soil biology and ecology 10 10 10 Mar Mar Mar 25 27 29 M W F Soil organic matter Soil organic matter Soil organic matter 11 11 11 Apr Apr Apr 1 3 5 M W F Soil fertility Exam #3, chapters 8, 9, 10, 11. Soil fertility 12 –12 Apr Apr Apr 8 10 12 M W F Nutrients management and fertilizers Nutrient management and fertilizers Nutrient management and fertilizers 13 13 13 Apr Apr Apr 15 17 19 M W F Soil erosion Soil erosion Soil erosion 14 14 14 Apr Apr Apr 22 24 26 M W F Soil and chemical pollution Soil and chemical pollution Soil and chemical pollution 15 15 15 8 9 9 ************ April 29 – May 3: Final Exam Week (Exam #4, chapters 12, 13, 14, 15). ************

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Singapore's Unique Tripartite Model for Balancing Employers' Corporate Essay

Singapore's Unique Tripartite Model for Balancing Employers' Corporate Goals - Essay Example They are further capable of meeting the needs of the government to bring stability in the economy as well as prosperity. This is possible because of the five pillar approach followed by the firms in Singapore. The study tries to discuss the ways through which the National Trade Union Congress’ 5 Pillars is capable of addressing the issues faced by the firms. Table of Contents Executive Summary 2 Introduction to Industrial Relation 4 Objective of the Paper 4 Industrial Relations in Singapore 4 Issues in Employee Relation in Singapore 6 The Tripartite Approach 7 Unique Tripartite Features of Singapore 10 Conclusion 11 References 12 Bibliography 14 Introduction to Industrial Relation Industrial relation has been categorized as one of the fragile as well as complex issues of contemporary industrial society. It is to be remembered that a business is considered to be successful if there is purposeful cooperation between the labor and the management. The main objective of the sound i ndustrial relations is not only finding the ways for resolving the conflicts but also to maintain cooperation among the employees within the industry. It is to be remembered that it is not at all an easy task to maintain good industrial relations. ... f the study is to identify the industrial relations of Singapore and to identify the ways through which the country has been capable of maintaining efficient industrial relations in the firms. Five Pillars approach will be studied in depth and the study will try to examine the issues that can be effectively solved by five pillar approach. Industrial Relations in Singapore ‘Industrial relations’ in Singapore has been modeled after the West Australian model, offering a system of collective bargaining along with conciliation and arbitration. The two significant pieces of legislation administered the industrial relations of Singapore. They are Trade Union Act, the key role of which has been to grant acknowledgement to the trade unions as well as employers who are registered. The other piece of legislation has been Industrial Relation Act whose principle activities have been the identification of the rules in order to carry out the negotiation and development of the Industria l Arbitration Court (IAC) for the purpose of investigating the disputes and certifying agreements. The system was being operated in a fair way. The bargaining demands made were fulfilled by the unions upon the employer in case the negotiation started. After the completion of the agreement successfully, the agreements were passed on the IAC for the purpose of selection and certification. In case the agreement was not realized, the matter was forwarded for the purpose of conciliation. If the conciliation was not effective enough, matter was referred to the IAC for the purpose of arbitration. Whatever decision the IAC would have arrived at, would be considered as final. The workers were paid with ex gratia bonuses by the employers. The bonus payments were quite unconditional and were rarely attached

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

The Lego Company Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Lego Company - Case Study Example The Lego Company was founded by Ole Kirk Christiansen in 1932. The firm has a wide range of product lines including video games, board games, education items, Lego mindstorms, pre-school products, bricks, and play themes. In addition, Lego group offers numerous community-based and other services for the benefit of children, particularly disadvantaged children. In the United States, the organization mainly focuses on Lego Imagination Centers, which are large stores that contain displays of Lego sculptures and a bricks play area; and as of 2002 data, the Lego Group operates 68 stores (including stores soon to be operated) in the North America (Lego stores, n. d.). Lego uses strategic risk management approach to drive its growth; and its strategic planning model has assisted the company to be successful throughout its corporate history. Mission Statement & Vision Statement The firm’s mission and vision values greatly benefit the organization in achieving its desired and end state . Lego’s mission statement is to â€Å"inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow†, and its vision statement is â€Å"inventing the future play† (A Case Study of the Lego Group, n. d.). ... Since these values contribute to Lego’s market reputation, the firm may easily achieve its desired and end state. Internal Analysis & External Analysis Evidently, Lego has a range of competitive internal strengths such as global presence, long market experience, a globally recognized brand, famous Lego bricks, and numerous popular video games to accomplish its goals and objectives set in their previous strategic plans. Market trends indicate that demand for colorful bricks is likely to remain stable over the next decades. In addition, emerging markets like Brazil, India, and China would contribute to the Lego’s efforts for meeting its strategic goals. Finally, the steadily growing toy industry would also improve Lego’s ability to respond to various internal and external challenges quickly and effectively. Long Term Objectives Brand value creation is one of the major long term objectives of the Lego Group. The company also gives particular emphasis to global expan sion and market share growth in the long term. As Jenson (2012) points out, zero waste is the ultimate long term goal of the company. Strategy Analysis and Choice It is recommendable for Lego to choose cost leadership strategy to achieve and maintain competitive advantages over its market rivals. Currently, the company has spread across the globe and it has numerous potential capital sources to invest significantly in production assets. The organization possesses better product designing capabilities and high level expertise in manufacturing process engineering. In addition, Lego maintains efficient distribution channels. Furthermore, this generic strategy is beneficial for the organization to defend new entrants effectively. Similarly, the market development grand strategy is best for the

Monday, August 26, 2019

Computer Security or Ethical Issue (see Laudon & Laudon text below) Research Paper

Computer Security or Ethical Issue (see Laudon & Laudon text below) - Research Paper Example In this scenario, corporations don’t like their business information such as customers’ data and economic statements to be exposed to the public. Therefore, computer system security is considered to be the vital aspect in any organization (Armor2net Software Ltd., 2011; Laudon & Laudon, 2010). In addition, intruders or hackers usually try to break into business information. Frequently these hackers like to get control over company’s computer system in order to initiate devastating attacks over further computers. In this scenario, if a business has a system linked to the web based technology just to send communication messages, so business system can definitely be the target. Moreover, these hackers have the power to change or delete sensitive business or personal data and information. Furthermore, web based technology and digital companies make it simple to collect, incorporate, and share business information, offering new fears regarding the suitable usage of cu stomer details, the safety of individual confidentiality, as well as the security of intellectual property of the organization (Armor2net Software Ltd., 2011; Laudon & Laudon, 2010). This paper presents a detailed overview of computer security. This paper discusses how computer security has become an important issue for the companies. This paper outlines various security issues along with their solutions. Introduction Computer security can be perceived as the procedure of averting as well as identifying illegal exploitation of a company computer system. For a large number of companies averting actions facilitate them to prevent illegal users/impostors from seeing and understanding the data lying onto a company system. In this scenario, the procedure of identification or detection assists businesses to decide if anybody tries to force an entry into our system, so if they get the access and what would happen with our system consequently. In view of the fact that the word computer secu rity is employed regularly; however the framework of a computer system is defenseless to a number of threats except the system is linked with more computer systems using some sort of network arrangement. Additionally, with the utilization of computer and communication networks, particularly the web based technology like internet the idea of computer security has extended to indicate problems regarding the exploitation of computer systems inside the network (Armor2net Software Ltd., 2011; Kinkus, 2002; Laudon & Laudon, 2010). However, for most of the businesses, the imperative technological domains of computer security are typically characterized through the word known as CIA which means confidentiality, integrity, and authentication. In general terms the word confidentiality denotes that the business data and vital information is not able to be used by illegal users. Confidentiality is as well acknowledged as concealment or privacy. However, the integrity implies that business infor mation is secured beside illegal access that is not obvious to authoritative computer system users. Additionally, lots of attacks to computer security occurrences of hacking usually negotiate the integrity of system database as well as additional contrivances and services. In this scenario, the computer security is concerned with various fields like ethics, risk assessment, computer system offense, the preclusion, recognition, and measures against various computer attacks; as well as individuality and secrecy inside cyberspace world (Armor2net Softwa

Analyze the case and answer the questions Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Analyze the and answer the questions - Case Study Example The level of hemoglobin of a patient who is suffering from lymphocytosis is likely to drop to about 7.4g/dL. This means that the red blood cell count may be reduced if anemia is present secondary to bone marrow infiltration with cancer cells. The level of platelets of a patient that has ALL will be low. The symptoms include pitting edema, petechia, bone pain, generalized weakness and anemia. There are numerous pains that are associated Acute lymphoblastic leukemia which include excessive brusing, joint pain, bome pain, enlarged lymp nodes and swelling of stoamch. (Johannes, 2010). The treatment of lymphocytosis depended on the type of illness. The various causes of lymphocytosis may be used to determine the treat the type of lymphocytosis. The basic medication is chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The aim of this is to kill all the tumor cells. For pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, this patient was given antibiotic incase he is

Sunday, August 25, 2019

The Importance of Managing Change in the Air Transport Industry Essay

The Importance of Managing Change in the Air Transport Industry - Essay Example The paper suggests the steps that should be taken by the company to ensure success. The first step involves the creation of the ‘big message’. This step is important for Su as it will help her understand what is in for her. This step will make out the main message the individuals are involved in the change need to hear. In this case, Su was the only individual that was affected by this change. This message contains the major reasons for the change that include cost reduction, increased demand for the work force in Edinburg as well as to facilitate her skills and experience. Additionally, it should state the benefits that the organization will get from this change. This message should be done in a concise and clear language and communicated through the appropriate channels. This means that there should be official communication of the message by the human resource management team. Su should demonstrate acceptance of the terms and conditions of the change by signing an off icial agreement statement. It is important to get the support of the management while making this decision and find individuals that are influential within the organization to support this move. It is important to acknowledge that this influence could either be positive or negative and it is imperative to align oneself with the parties that support the decision. At this stage, it is significant to communicate to Su on the benefits that linked with the change. This is the couple with the communication of the benefits that accrue to both entities. There are various examples that should be communicated to her at this stage. First, the individual benefits such as improved flexibility with regards to the job location as well as a more challenging work environment that results in career growth and development. The company benefits should be efficiently communicated to Su including increased benefits from her skills and expertise as well as the benefits associated with having a diverse wor kforce. It can be concluded that the ‘big message’ defines priorities and establishes the tone for the subsequent steps.

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Analysis - Essay Example For example, men are depicted as people who do not value women and hence despise their importance. On that prospect, there is a loss of personal identity among the women because of the persistent male domination. This loss of identity is apparent in the marriages of Mrs. Hale, Mrs. Peters and Mrs. Wright. Therefore, when Mrs. Wright who was initially called Minnie murders her husband John Wright, the two women conspire to protect her â€Å"†¦I might have known she needed help! I tell you, it's queer, Mrs. Peters† (Glaspell 17). Another view of marriage depicted by the playwright is that women are making efforts to reclaim their respect and dignity. From the play, Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters are seen showing extreme sympathy toward the wife of the victim in a sense of solidarity. In other words, both women make attempts in comprehending the guiding motives that led Minnie to wring the neck of her husband, John Wright. The women decide to settle on this idea because men taske d with the investigations are emotionless and cold with the existing material facts. The suggestions from these acts indicate that women are deemed as nothing in the eyes of the law. Apart from the aforementioned reasons of marriage offered by Susan Glaspell, there is the disregard by the law towards marriage. For example, the county attorney does not find pride in Mrs. Peter because she has been married by a cop. On that note, the attorney remarks she is â€Å"married to the law†¦ (Glaspell 14) meaning she is a person who is dominated by husband. There is also a conduct of timidity displayed among the two women especially when they are conversing. Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters are fond of sitting together suggesting a lack of strength among themselves even in their matrimonial homes. Furthermore, it depicts an inferiority complex complimented by the body language when investigation is being conducted concerning the murder of John Wright. Alternatively, the incompetency of men to show compassion for Minnie who is accused of murdering her husband shows a lack of dignity for marriage. Moreover, the death of the bird belonging to Minnie is a symbol of the destruction of women’s fancies in marriages. Another aspect is the men constantly ridiculing the roles played by women from the county attorney who is tasked with investigations to the sheriff. This is exemplified when the sheriff dismisses the fruits that have frozen in the cupboard instead of complimenting the hard work of the women. On the same perspective, views of marriage in, ‘Trifles’ is that of men who are constantly blaming women for their woes. This is apparent when the County attorney disparages the housekeeping skills of Mrs. Wright when they go to conduct investigations. However, in solidarity with her friend, Mrs. Hale comes to her defense by stating that housework is tough on a farm. This leads the County Attorney to minimize his ridicule and continue with other investigative roles inside the home of Mrs. Wright (Glaspell, 2010). Another defense fronted by Mrs. Hale that exposes the desperate attempt by women to defend their marriages is when she confronts the County Attorney. This is concerning the murder of John Wright. She explains to the investigation team that the home of Mrs. Wright was not a cheerful place, but Mrs. Wright had exceptional homemaking skills. However, the County Attorney continues to level blame on Mrs. Wright by claiming it’

Friday, August 23, 2019

Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 81

Essay Example On the onset of the operating of the business demographically our target market is mostly women 25-40 years of age working full-time and earning above average income. We are planning to operate the company in the U.S and following are the strategies that we intend to apply. Our business is called â€Å"Holistically shredded†. We deliver total body and mind transformations via tailored personal training sessions, professional nutritional meal plans, naturopathy consultations and motivational support. Our business will be operating from Hard Candy gym at Sydney CBD. Legal form of ownership is sole trader as it is easy to establish. Our products and services include various personal training sessions, professional nutritional meal plans, and naturopathy consultations and also provide motivational support. Various recreational exercises including squat, leg extension, and others are major part of our products and services. We also frame various nutritional and diet plans for various people; these plans vary accordingly with the interest of individuals (Czinkota, 2012). Furthermore, we also facilitate our customers by motivating and encouraging them to follow their diet plans. We are having separate plans for such individuals to encourage them to follow their fitness and nutritional plans. The target market the health organization would aim at would be a various number of groups of people. One of these aggregations of individuals might be individuals looking to get thinner through legitimate practices and having great to guide them through their weight reduction travel. The other target business sector might be individuals looking to prepare and increase muscle estimate and in addition bulky quality. The other assembly of individuals might be lady, men and adolescents that are searching for great cardio sessions with a qualified mentor. The recreational center will expect to give these assemblies of individuals with the offices and great

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Adoption of new technology systems Essay Example for Free

Adoption of new technology systems Essay Health can be described as the state of physical or emotional well-being without necessarily the absence of a disease or any given ailments. Electronic Health Record, thereby, covers a wide scope in ensuring the electronic procedures through which the factors that lead to the health of individuals are ensured. This indicates that this practice involves the incorporation of technology such as the use of computers to ensure its implementation.                  In this research paper, therefore, one ought to undertake the role of a head nurse, and carry out the programs that will ensure the use of electronic health records system is incorporated in a facility. In addition, one ought to put his or her base of discussion in line with the Rodgers qualities that lead to the adoption of new technologies, especially in an organizational set up. This can, therefore, be discussed as follows:                  How to approach the present the Electronic Health Records to the nurses to win their approval            Nurses often play a greater role in ensuring the health care delivery to the patients, who in most cases seek medical attention. This owes to the fact that they put into consideration the patients’ issues from the moment they are registered to undertake treatment in a given facility. Furthermore, they are the individuals who make sure that the patients get proper and adequate treatment up to when they are discharged from the hospital.               Therefore, one way of presenting the Electronic Health Records system to them is by critically defining the roles they are to carry out. These run from the registration of the patients, admission procedures as in the case of patients’ illnesses, writing down of the nursing procedures. Other functions of the nurses include drug admission, dosage and their storage, carrying out of the minor surgeries and dressing of wounds.                As the Head Nurse in charge, I would clearly outline to the nurses their roles, and how the incorporation of the new electronic health record system would improve their daily activities in the delivery of healthcare. However, despite the advantages that are associated with the new technology, several cases of resistance can be noticed among the nurses. These can be in the whereby they mention that they lack the knowledge and the skills to use the methods and that it may consume their time, and lead t earlier retirement or even retrenchment of their jobs.               In such a given case, as a head nurse, I will ensure that they have adequate training on the use of the newly adopted system, and assure them that the only time they would be retrenched or dismissed from their duties would be on attainment of the retirement age. Moreover, I will ensure that new goals and objectives are set forth with the introduction of the systems to ensure a quality health delivery service. Furthermore, I would also provide some room for negotiation so that we come up with a system that will be favorable to all.               Applications as per Rodger’s theory, in the health facility setup.               The theory looks into the modes via which individuals can choose to adapt into a new system of technology, basing on the qualities that they possess. These include relative advantage/the benefits, compatibility with the current practices and the values, simplicity, trialability, and the results that are observed (the observable results). The relative advantage               In order to prepare the nurses for the implementation that is upcoming, I would ensure that the system will lay several benefits that will facilitate in the improvement of the existing one. An explanation that can be given to this is that, initially, the storage of the health records were done in a manual manner. Therefore, a lot of time would be taken to retrieve the information about the patients from the filing area, thereby leading to subsequent delays, and infectivity in the delivery of health care. Moreover, the loss of the files would be easier owing to their inadequate storage and management.               However, by the incorporation of the new technology, time taken to retrieve the information about the patients would be reduced due to their accessibility and efficient storage. This would in turn lead to faster and efficient treatment. These would also ensure that they are properly diagnosed with the diseases that they suffer from and reduce the excess costs incurred for example in the purchasing of their files. Compatibility with the existing values and practices               In the health setup, proper values need to be ensured so that the rights of the patients are not infringed on. These can be in line with the Nightingale Promises or laws, as in this case, for the nurses. Practices such as laboratory experiments and the observational routines, for example, recording of temperature, blood pressure tests, post natal and antenatal care too should be considered. As a result, in order for the nurses to adapt to the new systems, they need to understand how the technologies would be implemented as per the values and the practices. Simplicity               In the facility, several forms of resistance may arise due to the difficulty of the nurses to use the new methods as most of them may be computer illiterate. Therefore, there is need to use the simple models that they can be easily trained on and understand. An example of these may include the data entry forms like the use of Microsoft Office (Word and Excel) basically, before getting to the more complex ones. Others may include the measurements of the temperature and pressure of the patients using equipment that can easily detect the variables from one patient to the next.                TrialabilityThese can be carried out as part of the training procedures that are given to the nurses. Therefore, they can be granted some extra time to familiarize themselves with the machines, make several trials and mistakes, and eventually come to terms with the proper modes of handlement. Observable results                  In most cases, these will be evident from the institutions that have successfully installed and used the systems in place, and the progresses that they have made in relation to the admission of an adequate healthcare. Thus, these can be the referral and the national hospitals from where a variety of diseases are handled. The role of nurses as change agents in facilitating the adoption of a new technology                Nurses aid in the adoption of the new forms of technology by ensuring digitalization in the admission of healthcare. These can be in the form of the mobile clinics that reach far and wide, within and outside the country. Moreover, it gives them a wider scope to classify diseases according to the signs and symptoms thus they can relate to patients through mediums such as webcam or even Skype for those who may not be able to get to the facilities in good time.                      These can therefore help to reduce the costs that can be incurred as in the case of distant travels by the patients who are critically ill, for example the aircraft ambulatory modes, and reduce more damages that would be caused to the patients by the use of roads. Additionally, several modes of treatment too can be sought out for by the nurses in line with the researches that they carry out through the internet, thereby improving the lives of individuals. References Archer, N., Cocosila, M. (2011). A Comparison of Physician Pre-Adoption and Adoption Views on Electronic Health Records in Canadian Medical Practices. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 13(3), 65.Devkota, B., Devkota, A. (2014). Electronic health records: advantages of use and barriers to adoption. Health Renaissance, 11(3), 78.Mihalko, M. (2011). Cognitive Informatics and Nursing: Considerations for Increasing Electronic Health Records Adoption Rates. Journal of Pediatric Nursing, 26(3), 264-266. Peden, A. H. (2009). Factors affecting adoption of electronic health record (EHR) systems in United States Hospitals. New York: Mac Millan. Rogers, E. M. (1983). Diffusion of innovations (3rd ed.). New York: Free Press ;. Source document

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Hydropower plants Essay Example for Free

Hydropower plants Essay Introduction In this paper I’m going to investigate the characteristics features of the hydropower as one of the potential alternative key energy source. I will discuss advantages and disadvantages of hydropower plans and compare them with the traditional means of energy production. I will also discuss the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment of the hydropower plants and investigate their application on the example of the hydropower plants in China and Argentina. I will also touch the topic of legal regulation of the hydropower plants construction and operation. Notion of Hydropower 1. 1. Definition of hydroelectricity The main focus of this paper is hydroelectricity, which can be briefly defined as electricity produced by hydropower. This is a quite potential source of electricity in the contemporary world, which now provides round 715,000 MWe, which constitute about 19% of world electricity . I’m mainly concerned with the advantages and disadvantages of the hydroelectricity, which are the main factors determining the future development of this source of energy. First, let us determine the main advantages of hydroelectricity. 1. 2. Historic facts about the oldest hydropower stations Hydropower can be considered as one of the oldest and one of the most powerful and perspective means of electric power generation. Among the most famous oldest hydro-electric power stations the following can be listed: Cragside, located in Rothbury, England, which was constructed in 1870, Appleton, situated in Wisconsin, USA built in 1882, Niagara Falls in New York completed in 1895, Duck Reach, located in Launceston, Tasmania, operating since 1895, Decew Falls 1, situated in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada, which began its work in 1898 . 1. 3. Advantages of hydroelectricity This first aspect to be discussed in this section is the connection between hydroelectricity and economics. Among the main advantages of hydroelectricity is that it eliminates of the cost of fuel. Thus, the cost of the operation of hydroelectric plants is quite low if compared with other means of electricity production. This is particularly important now when the price of fossil fuels such as oil, natural gas or coal constantly grows. Hydropower plants do not require the use of fuel . The other economic value of the hydroelectric plants is that they tend to operate much longer than fuel-fired plants. Thus, the usual operation time of the hydroelectric plants is 50 or even up to 100 years ago. Besides, hydroelectric power plants involve fewer personnel due to the fact that they are highly automated. This leads to the reduction of the expenses associated with the high labor cost . Construction of the hydropower plant is particularly justified in the places where a dam has multiple purposes. For example, it was estimated that the construction costs of the Three Gorges Dam will be covered by the electricity sold in just 5 7 years of full generation . The other possible economic benefit of hydroelectric plants is that they can create other activities. For example, well-considered hydroelectric schemes can create picturesque water sports, which draw attention of tourists and become the additional source of revenue. Quite many countries resort to the use of reservoirs for fish farming . Besides, some dams can be used for many purposes. Thus, dams used primarily for irrigation may also serve the source of the constant water supply, which is beneficial for fish farming. The other positive moment of large hydro dams is their ability to control floods. Thus, they are beneficial for the people living downstream of the project. In some cases dams are proved to improve transportation through creation of large reservoirs and elimination of rapids . Further, I would like to discuss the connection between the operation of the hydropower plants and greenhouse gas emissions. On the one hand there is no obvious emission of the carbon dioxide from the hydropower station due to the fact that is doesn’t use fossil fuel, which eliminates this gas in the process of burning. To be fair enough it should be mentioned that still some amount of carbon dioxide, which is eliminated in the process of construction of the hydropower plant, but this is quite unessential amount if compared with the fossil-fuel electricity generation . Still hydropower plants cannot be counted completely safe to the environment and further I will discuss the possible sources of emissions and threats. 1. 4. Disadvantages of hydroelectricity First possible threat of the hydropower plant is that it can have a disruptive effect on the aquatic ecosystems. There are several examples of such harmful influence. Thus, dams at the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of North America are proven to be the main cause of the reduction of the population of salmon due to the fact that these dams serve a barrier on the salmon way to the spawning grounds upstream. Even construction of fish ladders in salmon habitat seems not to improve the situation . Dams also prevent salmon to migrate to the sea as the fish has to pass through numerous turbines on its way. One of the possible ways out of this situation is the transportation of smolt downstream with the help of by barges. There are still many researches, which focus on the elimination of the harmful effect of the hydropower plants on the aquatic life . The other negative influence of the hydropower plants is their ability to change the downstream river environment. Hydropower plants can have a disruptive effect on the river beds and even lead to the loss of riverbanks due to fact that water exiting a turbine for the most part has a very little suspended sediment. As an example we can view the influence of Glen Canyon Dam, which is proven to contribute to the erosion of sand bars of the Grand Canyon through constant cyclic flow variation . Hydropower plant can also affect the surrounding aquatic live through changing the usual amount of dissolved oxygen in the river. Other possible threats may be attributed to the lower temperature of water exiting from turbines. This can be fatal to some aquatic faunal species. One of the most disruptive effects can be produced by the hydropower projects, which make use of the canals in order to divert a river at a shallower level to increase the head of the scheme. Sometimes this may lead to the complete change of the flow of the river and drying of the old riverbed, like in case of the Tekapo and Pukaki Rivers . However, it should be mentioned that dams of the hydropower plants can affect not only aquatic life. They can also produce a harmful effect on birds. As the possible example of this I can name the influence of dams of the Platte River in Nebraska on the Piping Plover and Sandhill Crane, which are now seriously endangered . As it was discussed above hydropower plants do not typically serve a main contributor of the greenhouse effect. However, it should be mentioned that sometimes reservoirs of hydropower plants particularly in tropical regions may be a source of methane and carbon dioxide emission. This happens because of the decay of the plant material, which involves the creation of methane, one of the main producers of the greenhouse effect. A research conducted by the World Commission on Dams, showed that in cases when the reservoir is large in comparison with the generating capacity of the plant and when there was no prior clearing of the forests, methane emission may be even higher than that of the oil-fired thermal generation plant . However, it should be mentioned that this is true only for the tropical climate. In moderate climate conditions of Canada and Northern Europe the emission of greenhouse gas is not essential and typically constitutes not more than 2 to 8 % of emissions of conventional thermal generation. Numerous contemporary researches focus on the mitigation of the forest decay effect through underwater logging operation . One more disadvantage of hydropower plants operating on large dams is associated with the relocation of the population living on the areas, where the reservoirs are constructed. Although for the most part people get compensation for this forceful relocation, no one can actually estimate spiritual and moral damage caused to the people, who have to leave the places, where their ancestors lived. In extreme cases unwise planning may lead to the loss of the valuable cultural and historic sites as this happened during the construction of the Three Gorges Dam in China, the Clyde Dam in New Zealand and the Il? su Dam in Southeastern Turkey . Finally, I’d like to discuss one of the most serious potential threats of the hydropower plants operating on large dams. Although quite rare, dam failures can be considered very dangerous and can be compared with the natural disasters. Let us only take a look at the case of the Banqiao Dam failure in China, with caused the death of 171,000 people. Millions of people became homeless. Large dams can be viewed as a weak point in war times as they quite often become a target of enemy bombardment, sabotage and terrorist actions . Besides it should be mentioned that construction of the dam should be carefully considered from the geological point of view. Otherwise it can possibly lead to such disasters as the one happened in case of the Vajont Dam in Italy in 1963, which lead to deaths of 2000 people . Hydroelectric power is one of the oldest and one of the most popular sources of energy, which is considered to have a great future. This is partially due to the fact that it is viewed as a source of renewable energy and it is very valuable in the places with an adequate water source. The main advantage of the hydropower plants is that they give relatively cheap electricity without any visible threat to environment such as waste byproducts and air emissions. Furthermore, hydropower plants are considered as an alternative to other electric plans due to the fact that its product – water – is not consumed in the process of electricity production and is subjected to reuse, which is not possible in many other electricity production processes such as ones using for example fossil fuels . On the other side hydropower has not only positive sides. Among its disadvantages many researchers list negative impact of the hydropower plants on the surrounding area. Hydropower plants operate on the reservoir, which are quite often artificially-made by flooding valleys. Quite often this process involves flooding of places, which used to have towns, farmland or places of interests. Besides, new reservoirs tend to destroy the natural habitats of aquatic life and fish places . But on the other side the same reservoirs create the new conditions, which can be a new habitat for a new aquatic life. Other possible threat is that hydropower operations using run-of-the-river dams are sure to impede the natural process if fish mitigation. This is particularly dangerous to salmon. One of the possible examples of this is problems of Pacific salmon mitigation created by the numerous large dams in the Columbia River Basin . Because of all this concerns the United States do not make emphasis on the hydropower as its main source of electricity production even due to the fact that its natural resources are quite favorable for its development. Thus, we can see that only some 2,400 of the 80,000 dams in the country are used for production of hydroelectric power. Authorities claim that construction of a new hydroelectric power plant is quit costly, but the main fact is that such construction needs much water and land, which could be used for other purposes . Besides, development of the hydropower plants in the USA is impeded by the raising environmental concerns of the public. However, this doesn’t mean that the USA will completely refuse to use hydropower as the possible source of energy. Among the possible future trends, named by the U. S. Geological Survey is the development of the small-scale hydropower plants, which can be used by single communities to generate electricity . 1. 5. Hydropower in comparison with other methods of power generation In order to realize the strengths and weaknesses of the hydropower it is very valuable to compare it with other methods of power generation. As compared with fossil-fuel generated power plants, hydroelectricity eliminates the flue gas emissions. These emissions include such environmental dangerous components as dust, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitric oxide and mercury . In comparison with the nuclear power plants, hydroelectric plants are not that powerful. However, they do not present such danger to people and do not serve the source of the nuclear waste. Besides, hydroelectric plants produce electric power with the help of water, which is a renewable energy source, in contrast with uranium . Hydroelectric power plans are also seem an advantage if compared with wind farms. This is mainly due to the fact that they are more reliable and predictable. Wind is a natural factor, which can be subjected to changes, while hydropower plants with a storage reservoir are completely reliable and able to generate power when needed even in case of low water level and rainfalls. Besides, unlike wind farms hydroelectric plants are more easily operated and regulated corresponding to changes in power demand . On the other hand hydropower plants have also some disadvantages if compared with other ways of power production. Thus, we can see that construction of fossil-fueled combustion turbines does not require any specific preliminary studies, while in order to construct an environmentally-friendly hydroelectric plant researchers should carefully conduct site, hydrological studies, and environmental and social impact assessment. In the majority of cases these studies require deep analysis of data up to 50 years old . One more disadvantage of the hydropower plants is their dependence on the level of water. Thus, in case of low rainfall or snowmelt generation of hydroelectricity can be significantly lower. However, as it was mentioned before there exist numerous ways to ensure sufficient power production even in low water years . 1. 6. Hydroelectric power production in the world In order to realize the capacity and the potential of hydroelectric power plants, let’s compare the data of the following table, representing the characteristics of hydroelectric power production in the countries with the most hydro-electric capacity. Country Annual Hydroelectric Energy Production(TWh) Installed Capacity (GW) Load Factor Peoples Republic of China [8] 416. 7 128. 57 0. 37 Canada 350. 3 68. 974 0. 59 Brazil 349. 9 69. 080 0. 56 USA 291. 2 79. 511 0. 42 Russia 157. 1 45. 000 0. 42 Norway 119. 8 27. 528 0. 49 India 112. 4 33. 600 0. 43 Japan 95. 0 27. 229 0. 37 Sweden 61. 8 France 61. 5 25. 335 0. 25 Sources: BP Annual Report, 2006.

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Using Renewable Energy In Our Daily Lives Environmental Sciences Essay

Using Renewable Energy In Our Daily Lives Environmental Sciences Essay We all are concerned about our future with regard to the way we generate energy and power. Renewable energy is the process by which we use the radiant energy from the sun, wind, and hydropower etc. Unfortunately we are not using renewable energy in most cases and the methods by which we currently getting our raw materials for power and energy are simultaneously destroying our planet and depleting supplies of natural resources. The damages we have caused might take generations to reverse. Many of us who care wants to do something by raising their voice as we are on a threshold of change. Renewable energy resources are not only our way out of an environmental disaster; they could solve some of our economic woes. Many countries are embracing renewable energy and it has benefited n several ways. These benefits include saving consumers money and reducing unemployment. This is not a luxury that we pursue when the cost of gasoline goes up. Now is the time to convert our mode of transportation to clean electricity that we get from renewable sources. This is a necessity that is going to save the lives of future generations. We can survive the problems which we have created in order to power our world. The climate is changing and we have entire species of animals that are now extinct due to pollution. Lets look at the maximum possibilities as we are in the midst of a crisis therefore we must act according to what will benefit our generations. Aim Finding the main reasons for not using renewable energy in our daily lives. Objectives Literature Review Brief History Prior to the development of coal in the mid 19th century, all energy used was renewable, with the primary sources being human labor, animal power in the form of oxen, mules, and horses, water power for mill power, wind for grinding grain, and firewood. A graph of energy use in the United States up until 1900 shows oil and natural gas with about the same importance in 1900 as wind and solar played in 2010. By 1873, concerns of running out of coal prompted experiments with using solar energy.  Development of solar engines continued until the outbreak of World War I. The eventual importance of solar energy, though, was recognized in a 1911 Scientific American article: in the far distant future, natural fuels having been exhausted [solar power] will remain as the only means of existence of the human race. In the 1970s environmentalists promoted the development of alternative energy both as a replacement for the eventual depletion of oil, as well as for an escape from dependence on oil, and the first wind turbines appeared. Solar had always been used for heating and cooling, but solar panels were too costly to build solar farms until 1980.  The theory of peak oil was published in 1956. By 2008 renewable energy had ceased being an alternative, and more capacity of renewable energy was added than other sources in both the United States and in Europe. Renewable energy is becoming more and more prevalent around the world, but it is still not the dominant energy resource.  Renewable energy is derived from natural processes that are replenished constantly. In its various forms, it derives directly from the sun, or from heat generated deep within the earth. Included in the definition is electricity and heat generated from solar, wind, ocean, hydropower, biomass, geothermal resources, and biofuels and hydrogen derived from renewable resources. Renewable Energy as a replacement for Conventional Fuel Renewable energy replaces conventional fuels in four distinct areas:  electricity generation,  hot water/space heating,  motor fuels, and rural (off-grid) energy services: Power generation. Renewable energy provides 19% of electricity generation worldwide. Renewable power generators are spread across many countries, and wind power alone already provides a significant share of electricity in some areas: for example, 14% in the U.S. state of Iowa, 40% in the northern German state of Schleswig-Holstein, and 20% in Denmark. Some countries get most of their power from renewables, including Iceland (100%), Norway (98%), Brazil (86%), Austria (62%), New Zealand (65%), and Sweden (54%). Heating.  Solar hot water  makes an important contribution to  renewable heat  in many countries, most notably in China, which now has 70% of the global total (180 GWth). Most of these systems are installed on multi-family apartment buildings and meet a portion of the hot water needs of an estimated 50-60 million households in China. Worldwide, total installed  solar water heating  systems meet a portion of the water heating needs of over 70 million households. The use of biomass for heating continues to grow as well. In Sweden, national use of biomass energy has surpassed that of oil. Direct geothermal for heating is also growing rapidly. Transport fuels. Renewable  biofuels  have contributed to a significant decline in oil consumption in the United States since 2006. The 93 billion liters of biofuels produced worldwide in 2009 displaced the equivalent of an estimated 68 billion liters of gasoline, equal to about 5% of world gasoline production In international public opinion surveys there is strong support for promoting renewable sources such as solar power and wind power, requiring utilities to use more renewable energy (even if this increases the cost), and providing tax incentives to encourage the development and use of such technologies. There is substantial optimism that renewable energy investments will pay off economically in the long term. Primary Source of Renewable Energy With so much dependency placed upon our natural resources to produce our much needed energy, scientists have been evaluating and producing renewable energy as an alternative to traditional energy sources.   Renewable energy is energy that can be reproduced in a short period of time.   The most prevalent forms of renewable energy are solar, wind, biomass, hydro power, geothermal and biofuels. http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTkYfRchpvKxiBs2AOvwdSSJzKy36CT7E2JMhOnxdD18HgVG7uyfw Wind An abundant source of renewable energy, wind power is used as a means of generating electricity.  Wind turbines  are capable of harnessing the power derived from the wind, converting kinetic energy into mechanical energy. A source of clean, green renewable energy, favourable climate conditions in Europe means wind energy is a highly viable method for electricity generation. And none more so than in the UK, with 40% of all wind energy in Europe blowing over the country. Solar In one form or another, solar power has been around for thousands of years. As a renewable source of free, green energy, technology has found a way of harnessing the suns energy via solar panels which are used either to generate electricity (solar photovoltaics) or to produce heat to warm water (solar thermal). A popular choice in a growing renewable energy market, solar technology doesnt generate greenhouse cases and is environmentally friendly. Biomass Biomass energy is produced from organic materials such as plants and animals, but the energy that is produced in this fashion is originally provided by the sun.   For example, plants absorb the suns energy through a process called photosynthesizes.   This energy is then passed on through the organism that eats the plant, creating biomass energy.   The most common forms used to generate biomass energy are wood, crops, manure and some rubbish. When these substances are burned, they give off energy as heat.   For example, if you have a  wood fuelled heating, you are generating renewable biomass energy.   This is not the only method of generating biomass energy; you can also create biomass energy by converting these substances into methane gases, ethanol and biodiesel fuels which can be translated more easily into our current methods of energy use. Geothermal Geothermal energy comes from the original Greek word Geo which means sun. Geothermal energy is derived from the heat that is given off by the Earth.   For example, steam energy or hot water that is generated by the Earth can be used to generate energy.   It is considered to be a renewable source of energy as the water in the Earth is replenished by regular rainfall and the heat used is regularly produced by the planet. Hydro Power Hydro energy is derived from the movement of water.   One form of  hydro power  is generated through the movement of water through turbines, such as water running through turbines in a Dam.   Hydro power is considered a renewable energy source as the water is continuously cycled back through the plant or into nature. Biofuels Biofuels are a form of renewable energy derived from burning plant or animal substances, otherwise called combustion. One of the challenges to biofuels has been that it is not easily transferred into a liquid form which is the primary method used to fuel most cars and homes. Two of the most common strategies that are seed to produce biofuels includes: growing crops to produce ethanol and growing plants that produce biofuel oils. While these methods are effective sources of renewable energy, they are challenging to produce and maintain on a large scale. The basic feature of renewable energy is that it has the capacity to be regenerated and, as such, is virtually inexhaustible, besides being environmentally friendly. These are the two major properties that distinguish it from traditional energy sources. In recent years, these two features have pushed renewable energies to the forefront since, if current fossil fuel consumption rates are maintained, they would only be able to meet our energy needs for a few more decades before running out. The damage to the environment, on the other hand, caused by the burning of fossil fuels and the resulting climate changes, force us to consider alternative energy sources if we want to preserve the planet and guarantee the well-being of future generations. Advantages The advantages of renewable energy over traditional energy sources are many and are receiving ever greater recognition. Technological progress in recent years has contributed to making renewable energy ever cheaper and efficient in generating electricity. The main advantages of renewable energies are: They are inexhaustible, whereas fossil fuels are limited. They have less of an environmental impact than fossil fuel energy sources (coal, oil and gas), since they do not produce carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases. They are less of a risk than nuclear energy. They provide energy independence to a country, given that their use does not depend on the import of fossil fuels (which only exist in certain regions of the world). They allow a country to develop certain areas within its borders. Disadvantages It is easy to recognise the environmental advantages of utilising the alternative and renewable forms of energy but we must also be aware of the disadvantages. One disadvantage with renewable energy is that it is difficult to generate the quantities of electricity that are as large as those produced by traditional fossil fuel generators. This may mean that we need to reduce the amount of energy we use or simply build more energy facilities. It also indicates that the best solution to our energy problems may be to have a balance of many different power sources. Another disadvantage of renewable energy sources is the reliability of supply. Renewable energy often relies on the weather for its source of power. Hydro generators need rain to fill dams to supply flowing water. Wind turbines need wind to turn the blades, and solar collectors need clear skies and sunshine to collect heat and make electricity. When these resources are unavailable so is the capacity to make energy from them. This can be unpredictable and inconsistent. The current cost of renewable energy technology is also far in excess of traditional fossil fuel generation. This is because it is a new technology and as such has extremely large capital cost. Research Methodology Findings and Results Reasons of not Using Renewable energy in Daily Lives   Time and time again, we have to explain to them why their reasoning is unfounded but still we find the same excuses wherever we go.   So we thought wed take a little time to dispel the four most common excuses for not utilizing solar power. Its Too Expensive Everyone seems to know that federal and state governments have significant financial incentives in place to help promote the adoption of solar power.    Even after these incentives, the average residential solar system costs between $10,000 and $30,000 and for most people, this represents a major capital investment.   As a result, most people stop there and say, I cant afford it.    What they dont know is that there are a number of financing options available to help ease the cost of solar.   For example, a number of solar installers offer  financing programs  , similar to small loan or mortgage, where there is little to no up front cost and finance the balance of the purchase price through a loan.   As a result, the homeowner does not have to come up with cash upfront but can amortize the cost of the solar system over time.   Whats great is that when you factor in a your reduced utility bill from solar and the amortization cost of the panels, this amount is most likely still less than your electric bill without solar power.   So you save immediately and that savings grows over time as electricity rates increase. There are also programs where you can  lease the panels  Ã‚  for little to no up front costs and you pay a small, manageable monthly fee over the term of the lease.   Again, the savings on your electric bill from the solar panels plus this leasing fee is still likely to be less than your current electric bill without solar.   There is also a mechanism called a  power purchase agreement  , which is a great option for larger projects, where the solar installer installs and owns the panels on the roof of your home/building but provides you electricity and simply charges you a flat fee for that electricity over the life of the agreement (typically 15-20 years).   That way you are guaranteed a set rate of electricity over a long period of time (protecting you from annual rises in electricity rates) and there is no up front cost to you. The moral of the story is that there are a lot of options for people to pay for solar panels. Gone are the days where you have to come up with all the money for solar panels up front. There are simply more ways than ever to finance and make the cost of solar work out beneficially for residential and commercial consumers alike. Solar Wont Work in cold climate Another really bad excuse. The average temperature in a climate region does not have an effect on solar panels.   In fact, solar panels are actually slightly more efficient at producing electricity in cold temperatures. The critical factor for solar panels is a concept called solar isolation which is the amount of sunlight that the solar cells receive. Obviously, the more the better so even if you live in a colder climate that is further north and receive ample amounts of sunlight, solar should work just fine for you. (If you want to learn more about how solar panels work, you can click  here  .) Remember, Germany, is which is farther north than just about any state in the U.S., is the world leader in solar photovoltaic energy with over 9,000 Megawatts.   Thats almost enough to cover the roofs of 2 million U.S. houses!    So dont worry if you live in a cold climate, just make sure that you receive plenty of sunshine. No Power if its cloudy A reasonable concern, but again, not a good reason to avoid solar power.   As stated above, its not temperature that affects the performance of solar panels, rather it is the amount sunlight received.   And even in the sunniest of locations, there are going to be days where there is cloud cover or rain (not to mentioned nightfall) and your solar panels performance may be compromised.   Not to worryà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦you will not be left in the dark. Residential and commercial solar panels these days are almost always connected to the utility gridà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦it is called a grid-tie.   So, while your solar panels are exposed to the sun, the electricity they produce powers your house or building.   But when it is cloudy or nightfall, you will still be able to draw power for your home or building because you remain connected to the electrical grid. Another cool concept is what is called net metering.   In states that allow net metering, if your solar panels produce more electricity in a day than you are consuming, that extra electricity is fed back into the electric grid and can actually spin your electric meter backward.   As a result, at the end of the month, the electric company will take into account the electricity that you fed back in to the grid through your solar power system and you will only pay for the net amount of electricity that you consume. People do not know Where to Start Getting Solar The worst excuse of them all!   First of all, there is a tons of information on the Internet related to solar, so for starters you can get educated that way. However, we understand that there may be so much information that you are overwhelmed. Never fear, sites likeMyEnergySolution.com  Ã‚  take the mystery out of the solar process.  MyEnergySolution.com  contains all the information you need to know about how solar works, what to expect and even ideas to help finance your solar power system. With sites like  MyEnergySolution.com  , there is no excuse not to understand the key elements of going solar. But what about getting a solar installer?   How do I know who to pick?   Another great question.   You can obviously talk to friends who have installed solar power systems in their homes and ask for a reference.   But if you dont have references, solar energy matching services can also take much of the guess work out of selecting a solar installer.   There are several free matching services that connect you with pre-selected and highly reputable solar installers based.   The process is simple: you provide basic information on your location and project type and within minutes or up to 1-2 business days the qualified solar installers will contact you to bid on your project.   These services have saved homeowners time and the headache of dealing with poor quality installers.   For example, see  www.solar-energy-installers.com  . Critical Evaluation Conclusion and Recommendation We know that people have other reasons for not going solar and that is fine.   Choosing solar is a personal/business decision that can only be made by you. However too often, we have seen a number of friends and business associates avoid solar power based on the excuses above yet solar power could have been so value-added to their home or commercial project.   Our goal here is to hopefully de-bunk the biggest excuses that we have seen and help show that there are answers and solutions out there for your concerns.  

Monday, August 19, 2019

Ernest Green Essay -- essays research papers fc

Ernest Green Throughout the American South, of many Negro’s childhood, the system of segregation determined the patterns of life. Blacks attended separate schools from whites, were barred from pools and parks where whites swam and played, from cafes and hotels where whites ate and slept. On sidewalks, they were expected to step aside for whites. It took a brave person to challenge this system, when those that did suffered a white storm of rancour. Affronting this hatred, with assistance from the Federal Government, were nine courageous school children, permitted into the 1957/8 school year at Little Rock Central High. The unofficial leader of this band of students was Ernest Green. The children of Little Rock Arkansas never doubted that, like every other southern Negro, they lived in an unequal, segregated society. In the twentieth century, the black population of Arkansas still endured periodic beatings, arrests and daily racial taunts at the slightest provocation. However, the law was turning in the Negroes favour. Various organisations including the National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People (NAACP) and Negro produced newspapers fought for an end to racial discrimination and for the advancement of the black population. â€Å"They began to assert political and economic pressure† against citizens, organisations and governments violating human rights. The victory in the 1954 Brown Vs Board of Education case granted the Federal Government the ability to pass school integration laws permitting Negro children to attend white schools. This was â€Å"a great forward step in achieving true equality† . Virgil Blossom, of the Little Rock school board, consented to nine black children integrating into Central High on September 4th 1957, 3 years after the United States Supreme Court decision. Testament to his resilience and determination in the face of angry segregationists, Ernest assumed the role of head of his family at the age of sixteen, after his father’s death in 1953. Ernest’s mother, an elementary school teacher, and his younger brother Scott both respected this new allotment Ernest assumed at such a young age. His mother knew it was useless attempting to persuade the headstrong Ernest to reconsider attendance at Little Rock Central High School after he had been selected as one of the nine Negro children to attend. Students were selected based ... ...e to breach Supreme Court sovereignty would render the different minorities, residing in the United States, helpless to further governmental legislature justifying racial discrimination. In their struggle to preserve racial inequality segregationists immorally resorted to using violence against children. Through â€Å"a sharp realisation of the shameful discrimination directed at small children† the world perceived an inconsistency in a nation that preached freedom for all, though denied the very same right to its children. Ernest Green and the other eight students â€Å"learned unmistakably that they possessed irresistible power† during the crisis but only if they realised it and united against discrimination and racism. Bibliography Bates, Daisy, The Long Shadow of Little Rock, University of Arkansas Press, Fayetteville, 1987. Degler, Carl N., Neither Black Nor White, The Macmillan Company, New York, 1971. Jakoubek, Robert, Martin Luther King, Jr., Chelsea House Publishers, New York, 1989. Levine, Ellen, Freedoms Children, G. P. Putnam’s Sons, New York, 1993. Poston, Ted, New York Post – Daily Magazine, 21st October 1957. Poston, Ted, New York Post, 24th October 1957.