The Computerization Of Education Education Essay

IntroductionDevelopment of computing machines in the modern society and associated with it cybernation of instruction is characterized by a monolithic proliferation of information and communicating engineerings ( ICTs ) . ICT can be used for information exchange and interaction between a instructor and a student in the modern instruction system. As such, non merely the instructor must get the hang the ICT engineering, but besides to be an expert in using it in his or her professional activities. â€Å" It is a technological universe in which kids are frequently more comfy than their parents and instructors † .[ 1 ] Computerization of educational achieves two strategic aims. First, it improves the efficiency of all types of educational activities through the usage of ICT tools and engineerings. Second, it improves the quality of developing heightening it with a new type of believing which is relevant to the demands of the information society. Using methods and agencies of information, future professionals must be able to acquire replies as to what information resources are available, where they are, how they can be accessed and how they can be used to better their professional activities. In our research paper we will cover the undermentioned facets of ICT Positive and negative facets of utilizing information and communicating engineerings in general instruction Review the function and topographic point of ICT in the edifice of the information society Review the countries of effectual application of ICT tools Review methods of ICT application to turn to appropriate demands of the educational procedure, monitoring and measuring of larning results, extracurricular activities and research, in primary school educational establishments Reappraisal demands for ICT installations Review the market of available ICT tools and merchandises.What is ICT?Information and communicating engineerings ( ICT ) are a combination of the hardware and package designed to implement information processes through the use of the computing machines and web engineerings. â€Å" The intent of ICT in instruction is by and large to familiarize pupils with the usage and workings of computing machines, and related societal and ethical issues † .[ 2 ]The chief focal point of the research nevertheless will be dedicated to the electronic agencies of educational intent, which are a subset of package tools of ICT. These include application package and electronic media, specifically designed for the educational usage: a system back uping the procedure of larning ( electronic text editions and encyclopedias ( including web ) , electronic research lab etc. ) . There are several locales of ICT tools use in the instruction system: In general educational establishments ( primary schools, high schools, etc. ) In the auxiliary instruction ( instructor-led linguistic communication schools, etc. ) In home-based acquisition ( extracurricular activities, etc. ) To further contract down the subject of the research the chief speech pattern will be applied to the country of general Primary school instruction with accent on the general instruction of the primary instruction procedures. Harmonizing to Andrew A. Zucker who writes in his ‘Transforming Schools with Technology: How Smart Use of Digital Tools Helps Achieve Six Key Education Goals ‘ 2008, the ICT will be successful if engineering is aligned with six major instruction ends. Those ends are to: addition pupil accomplishment do schools more piquant and relevant supply a high-quality instruction for all pupils attract, prepare, and retain high-quality instructors addition parental and community support for pupils outside of school require answerability for consequencesICT methods and techniquesMethods and techniques of ICT in learning are aimed at developing accomplishments in information activities of students and their ‘information ‘ civilization. There is a figure of different learning methods that could be employed in this country, some of them are: exemplifying, generative, research based, disciplinary cognition, inducement, motivational, etc. These methods could be enormously enhanced by the usage of ICT techniques. For illustration, the exemplifying methods could be enhanced by utilizing multimedia which can clearly better the mental activity of pupils due to increased visibleness and emotional profusion ( life, sound, picture and other multimedia effects ) . When a instructor develops the multimedia instructional stuffs, he/she may utilize Irish local history stuff that enhances the educational lesson as students would be able to associate more to the subject which is familiar to them. Generative methods of instruction benefit through the usage of larning systems offering the high degree of customization on a personal-oriented instruction in which students are able to construct single educational way depending on their personal accomplishments and abilities ( perceptual experience, memory, thought, etc. ) . Through the use of the ICT the analyzing procedure can be enhanced without adding excess load on the teachers/their agenda. The consequence of freshness and overall attraction of the computing machines to the students serve as an extra agencies to excite and actuate acquisition, better students ‘ involvement in analyzing. ICT allows and provides a locale to heighten farther preparation thought the use of the bet oning signifier of preparation. The value of these games is really high. Indeed, the accomplishments of non-verbal communicating channels ( facial look, gesture, position, etc. ) are of import in the day-to-day lives of students, and will hold even greater significance in future active societal and professional activities. The ability to right convey the significance of the message, non merely in a signifier of words but besides in ‘a general look of the organic structure ‘ is really utile to pupils in life.ICT and StudentsGeneral Education and ICTUse of ICT in instruction of general instruction classs aimed at bettering the acquisition procedure within a given scientific field of cognition. ICT finally improves the quality of direction in schools by increasing the involvement of students, supplying the ability for a extremely customized and personalized course of study, ability to escalate the acquisition without the addition of working hours of the instructors. It besides should be noted that there is a tendency of increased use of undertaking – squad work – particularly in the country of research assignments. ICT is an instrumental tool in this country, with its interlinked computing machine engineering and networking capablenesss, making a alone existent clip integrating of sub-projects, doing it possible to heighten interdisciplinary links between the general instruction classs. Use of ICT tools in the direction of the educational procedure is oriented at bettering the administration procedure. There are several countries that could be managed by ICT ; forces direction, direction of logistics, direction of the educational procedure, direction of information resources. ICT modules where developed for the each of these countries. To better the procedure of forces direction – a ‘human resource ‘ faculty, to better the direction of logistics – a ‘warehouse ‘ faculty, ‘schedule ‘ faculty for the instruction procedure, etc.Auxiliary Education and ICTWithin the country of the auxiliary instruction ICT covers two chief countries: ICT as an object of survey and tool aimed at sweetening of the mental abilities of kids and as agencies of administration procedure betterment. The chief difference between the system of the auxiliary instructions of kids and primary instruction system is the deficiency of compulsory unvaryi ng educational criterions. This characteristic brings a qualitative alteration in the methods of application of ICT, and provides teacher/school with the pick of the educational means/tools. Given that kids come volitionally to the auxiliary instruction organisation ( as opposed to schools, where kids come on a compulsory footing ) , the instructor pays particular attending to methods of stimulating and motivation of larning. In selecting of the right content of the instruction, the instructor addresses the demands and involvements of students more actively in response to inventions in the field of ICT development. Therefore, the content of instruction does non double the primary-school scientific discipline, but instead broadens and deepens it. Of class, the instructor can utilize all known methods of instruction, but precedences are given to the stimulating and actuating acquisition, research activities and games based larning techniques. ICT tools used in the direction of the edu cational procedure in establishments of auxiliary instruction oriented to bettering the work with talented kids in different countries. Albeit this country boosts particular characteristics deserving mentioning, specifically the fact that the organisations that provide a auxiliary instruction are in its huge bulk are of a commercial nature. As such they of course imply a more active cooperates/collaboration with the societal environment: kids and their parents. In each such establishment many instructors develop their ain plans and techniques which are worthy of digest and distribution, which may lend to the farther ICT tools development and, above all, the networking engineerings.Home-based instruction and ICTICT tools in its home-study application are oriented on individualisation of the larning procedure of students and their societal version. Embedded preparation engineerings in such systems are generative in nature, their chief intent is to assist pupils to fix for all kinds of tests/quizzes or tests and fundamentally directed at repeat of school stuff. In add-on, by holding a computing machine at place, the student is able to more expeditiously complete prep ( fixing research for case, etc. ) . In this instance, ICT tools are the agencies of individualisation of acquisition and bettering the educational activities of pupils. As a agency of societal version of students, ICT tools fulfil the demand of societal adaptation of students while pupils communicate with each other over the Internet. Networking technologies is a powerful tool of societal activity, mobility and reactivity. Having a place Internet entree and computing machine equipped with the ICT client allows kids to have an chance to take part in on-line undertakings, addition entree to assorted research and informations resources every bit good as an chance to show societal activity. The pupil must be prepared to accept and measure information and develop a right perceptual experience of any info rmation he/she runs into, which helps developing critical thought which should be given a peculiar attending by instructors and parents as this is one of the ultimate ends of any educational system. To sum up the usage of ICT tools in general instruction is chiefly aimed at bettering the bing instruction engineerings and direction. It should be noted that ICT long pillows pupil ‘s ability in the country of informations excavation, analytical thought and strengthens their research abilities while working with huge sums of information available and given a timeline for the completion teaches students to efficaciously pull off their ain clip and the value of squad work coaction. ICT tools are effectual in bettering involvement of pupils and creative activity of individualised tilting methods. Application of ICT in the educational procedure, particularly at place, requires development of critical thought, which should be monitored and encouraged by instructors and parents. Application of networking and distributed engineerings in the general instruction facilitates the integrating of assorted types of best learning patterns under the ICT umbrella.ICT – Computer-assisted instructionWith every passing twenty-four hours Information and Communication Technology ( ICT ) is being adopted into assorted Fieldss of educational activities. Both external drivers related to overall coming of omnipresent informational society and internal factors such as wider acceptance and spread of the computing machine engineering in schools contribute to this acceptance. Stairss are taken by the authoritiess to farther promote the acceptance through appropriate support, standard scene and preparation. In the huge bulk of instances, the usage of this engineering positively affects productiveness of instructors every bit good as the effectivity of the acquisition procedure. The word ‘technology ‘ is of Grecian beginning and means ‘the scientific discipline, the aggregation methods and techniques for managing or processing of natural stuffs, semi-finished merchandises and change over them into objects of ingestion. Current apprehension of the word includes the application of scientific and technology accomplishments used to work out practical jobs. In this instance, information and telecommunication engineerings can be considered as such engineerings, which aim to procedure and transform information. Information and communicating engineering ( ICT ) is a general term depicting assorted techniques, methods and algorithms for informations aggregation, storage, processing, presentation and transmittal of information. This definition deliberately does non include the word ‘usage ‘ . Use of information and communications engineering presents yet another aspect of engineering – a set of information and telecommunication engineerings in instruction, medical specialty, defense mechanism and other Fieldss of human activity that is portion of overall construct of information engineering. Each of these countries of information engineering imposes its ain restrictions and distinctive features. This construct includes the full s cope of techniques, methods, techniques and attacks to accomplish the aims of computerized instruction. The basis of the ICT tools is a personal computing machine equipped with a set of peripherals known as a hardware platform and a set of educational plans known as the package or applications. The chief classs of package are system plans, applications and tools. System plans are runing systems ( OS ) every bit good as assorted public-service corporations or service plans. Applications are the tools of the information engineering – package that enable user to work with text, artworks, tabular informations, etc. With the coming of computing machine webs, pupils and instructors have a new alone chance to receive/send information anyplace in the universe. A planetary telecommunications web of the Internet makes it possible to immediately entree information resources ( digital libraries, databases, file storage, etc. ) , the most popular of which is of class the World Wide Web. The internetworking capablenesss allow people to pass on and interchange informations utilizing electronic mail, instant messaging clients, get offing lists, newsgroups, confabs, VoIP and teleconferencing engineering. The latest development introduced tools for coaction and cooperation which are instrumental portion of the distributed computing machines enabling pupils to interact virtually with each other anyplace in the universe. Technology continues to germinate and we as a society seem to be come ining the age of omnipresent calculating. It is impossible to measure at this phase how cloud computer science and the development of the construct of omnipresent calculating would impact the country of instruction, but there is no uncertainty that many of these engineerings have the potency to significantly better the quality of preparation and overall pupils ‘ instruction. At the same clip, nevertheless, despite of the monolithic positive impact, in some instances, the usage of the information engineering has no consequence, and in rare instances, such usage has a negative consequence. Concept of the information society, which includes instruction, gained important encouragement in the early 90-ies and was taken earnestly by the authoritiess of the developed states. Albeit the construct is non new, and was foremost introduced by Fritz Machlup in 1973, in his book ‘The production and distribution of cognition in the United States ‘ , which suggested that the information society is the highest phase of social development.Positive and negative facets of computerized instructionIt may look that the usage of ICT is ever warranted in all countries of educational activities. Surely, in many instances it is. However, it has a figure of negative facets. Positive and negative factors of ICT should be taken into history by educators. Professionals are bettering methods and techniques of choosing and determining the content educational stuff debut and development of new specialized subjects and Fieldss of survey associated with the information sciences and information engineering alterations in instruction of the traditional school topics bettering instruction of students by increasing their degree of individualisation and distinction debut of new signifiers of interaction into the acquisition procedure that changes the content and nature of the instructor and student relationship creates tools helping in optimisation of the instruction direction creates and supports the integrating tendency of capable countries and the environment, Allows high degree of customization. Raises degree of activity of the pupil develops the ability of alternate thought, constructing accomplishments to develop a scheme to happen solutions Allows foretelling the consequences of determinations based on the simulation of the studied objects, phenomena, procedures and relationships between them. Cons are: In malice of the obvious pros the usage of ICT can take to several negative effects. In peculiar, most frequently one of the benefits of ICT is referred to the individualised acquisition. However, along with the advantages there are besides major defects associated with the entire individualisation. It limits to the minimal the unrecorded interaction between instructors and students, students with each other and surrogates it with interaction with the computing machine. Due to restrictions of the current engineering the lone interface of this communicating is a keyboard instead than address. The chief interface of the human head – ability to talk – gets shutdown. The deficiency of practical dialogic communicating shackles the development of the linguistic communication and overall affects negatively development of the thought procedure. Another important drawback of this alternate relationship is the curtailment of societal contacts, the decrease of societal interaction and communicating, individuality. Certain troubles and negative facets may originate from the usage of the ICT tools that provide instructors and pupils considerable flexibleness in happening and utilizing information. Often confusing and complicated methods of presentation may do the recreation of the students from the studied stuff due to assorted incompatibilities. Furthermore, the nonlinear construction of information exposes the pupil to the enticement to â€Å" follow the suggested links that which can derail the intent of the exercising in its entireness. The usage of information resources published on the Internet, frequently leads to negative effects. Most frequently, the usage of ICT tools triggers plagiarism – cut and paste of the readily available undertakings, essays, studies, research documents, etc. which does non heighten the effectivity of larning procedure. ICT tools can be non merely a powerful tool for the formation and development of kids but conversely, advance a ‘standard ‘ form of thought and inert attitude to work. In many instances, the usage of ICT and existent clip handiness of informations deprives and prevents pupils from behavior existent experiments by their ain custodies, which adversely affects the acquisition. And last but non least, the wellness facet of students must be taken into the most serious consideration as the excessive of ICT equipment could negatively impact the wellness of a kid.Methods of ICT application in the instruction procedureICT tools can be used as a mean of support in the traditional methods of instruction. In this instance, ICT enhances the preparation procedure, provides a locale for certain degree of customization of acquisition and allows for partial mechanization of everyday work of instructors related to accounting, organisation and scaling. On the other manus, ICT could take to a drastic alteration of educational procedure, coercing the alteration of methods and signifiers of organisation of educational procedure. Induces the building of incorporate classs based on the usage of information content in each school subjects. The demand for specific cognition which is either non available in a individual person topic, i.e. interdisciplinary cognition is needed or there is a demand for a ‘deep dive research ‘ – a demand to research a figure of constructs, theories and Torahs that can non be obtained in a standard instruction. The demand for the generative abilities. A demand to fix for the quiz which has clip restriction. The demand for originative thought. Development of the optimisation accomplishments. Most cost-efficient solutions or the most optimum discrepancy of procedure The demand to develop trim individualized qualities. Formation of pupils ‘ sense of duty towards others, towards themselves. All of the above grounds and factors suggest that the usage of ICT tools in learning pupils on a â€Å" bigger is better † rule may non take to seeable betterment in the efficiency of instruction. ICT usage requires a balanced and well-reasoned attack.Information Society and ICTUsing the sum of cognition as a standard it was determined that the sum of human accumulated cognition is skyrocketing and is duplicating[ 3 ]every 5 old ages since 1970. Beginning: University of Stellenbosch ‘The MIKM and the Revolution of the Knowledge Economy ‘ Using this figure as the sum of accrued human cognition as a standard for presenting the public position of the information society is justified, because harmonizing to some estimations, since the beginning of our epoch, the first doubling of the accrued cognition of world took topographic point in 1750, the 2nd – the beginning of the 20th century, the 3rd – already by 1950 twelvemonth. Since 1950, the entire sum of cognition in the universe doubles every 10 old ages, since 1970 – every 5 old ages. The history of the information society contains the history of the beginning and development of new types of human activities associated with computing machines. Such growing resulted in an visual aspect of a specialised group of people employed entirely in the information industry ( operators, coders, system analysts, interior decorators, etc. ) . Obviously, the outgrowth of new scientific and professional countries requires specialised preparation with non merely the specialised content but besides peculiar methods and agencies of instruction. Therefore it is non a happenstance that computing machine based instruction achieves two strategic aims. It improves the efficiency of all types of educational activities through the usage of ICT and improves quality of developing through a new type of believing the relevant demands of the Information Society. The computer-based instruction is an built-in portion of the information society. The passage of modern society to an information epoch of its development progresss as one of the major challenges confronting instruction, the undertaking of organizing the foundations of an information civilization of the hereafter specializers. Society ‘s demand for skilled forces possessing a necessary skillset becomes a prima factor in educational policy. Today, it is virtually impossible to happen a school which would non hold ICT implemented in some signifier. In today ‘s universe everything is interconnected. It is obvious that computer-based instruction and information society development are closely linked, invariably impacting each other. Here are several of these countries of convergence alterations in content and maps of instruction, signifiers and methods of instruction activities positive impact of ICT tools and information on the development of originative abilities educational impact of information engineering the outgrowth of the possibility of utilizing multimedia engineerings in instruction further development of go oning instruction in the information society Development and widespread usage of electronic theoretical accounts of larning the constitution of developmental instruction based on the information resources of society a combination of traditional and advanced ways of larning in the information society formation of information civilization of instructors to work in all signifiers of educational procedure coevals of new attacks to the direction of the establishment and measuring the quality of instructor work globalisation and integrating of educational services in the information societyInformation engineering in school instructionTypes of audio-visual and proficient equipment used in instruction.The birth of ICT did non go on overnight and was preceded by a rapid development of assorted non-computer devices known as proficient and audio-visual preparation AIDSs. For the drawn-out period of clip, proficient agencies of preparation were attributed merely to the hardware: slide and film projectors, telecasting sets, tape recording equipments and CD-players, every bit good as specially designed instruction stuffs and AIDSs such as filmstrips, cassettes and compact phonograph record. These learning tools at different phases of development of the instruction system were the chief tools for bettering the efficiency of storage, processing, transmittal and presentation of educational information. In the absence of computing machine equipment they have played the function of information and commu nicating engineerings. A hundred old ages ago, with Thomas Edison innovation of record player, the first embodiment of ICT was born. A that clip with the coming of the ability to record, shop and playback sound all the jobs of instruction were seen to be solved ; today of class, it is obvious that non all such jobs have been solved wholly. Throughout the last century a assortment of instruction tools were introduced ; each clip ensuing in more advanced informational support system of the acquisition procedure, which in bend a positively impacted the effectivity of learning. At present, any educational establishment possesses a subset or a full set of the followers: sound recording and playback ( tape, CD-players ) voice/data passage systems ( telephone, facsimile, teletype machines, wireless communicating systems ) video/radio broadcast medium equipment ( telecasting, wireless, educational telecasting and wireless, DVD-players ) optical and photographic equipment ( cameras, slide projectors, overhead projectors ) Printing, copying, scanning and other equipment designed for certification and reproduction of information ( duplicators, microfilm, microfiche ) computing machine installations used for the electronic entry, processing and storage of information ( computing machines, pressmans, scanners ) telecommunications systems for the transportation of information through communications ( modems, web wire, orbiter, fiber optics, microwave and other communicating channels )Analogue Equipment:Audio – tape recording equipments, mikes, amplifiers, talkers, recording equipments, wirelesss, linguistic communication equipment, tapes, records ) Graphic and photographic tools – cameras, slide projectors, overhead projectors, filmstrips, slides, images on the tapes Projection equipment – cameras, projectors, movies Movies and Television installations – TVs, proctors, cameras, camcorders, VCRs, picture participants, picture projectors, video tapes ) .Digital equipment:Audio – digital voice recording equipments and participants, digital Compact disc read-only memory Graphic and photographic tools – digital cameras, optical maser and magnetic discs, storage memory card Projection Technology – multimedia projectors Movies and Television installations – digital picture recording equipments, DVD-players and DVD-players, optical maser and magnetic discs, electronic memory card ) Computer tools – Computer multimedia tools to enter, procedure and playback sound, entering processing and visual image of text, artworks and photographic installations ; entering, processing and playback. With the coming of the cyberspace the computing machine serves as a basis of the ICT and enables a figure of characteristics which were unavailable in non-internetworked universe ; telecommunication between people, existent clip coaction and existent clip entree to information resources. Computer engineering gives alone chance to unite different engineerings and different agencies such as sound, text, exposure and picture into one cohesive locale of bringing. However, debut of computing machine engineering brings an interesting point. At first glimpse, it would be logical to include other engineerings and tools of relevancy to the processing and presentation of information used in instruction. However, at the same clip, the catholicity of the computing machine brings the educational engineering to the whole new degree and inquiries the use of all non-computer based tools with the exclusion of the book possibly, as they are losing relevancy. Today, for obvious grounds, it is practical ly impossible to happen a modern educational film-strip or phonographic discs. As such, the execution of computerized instruction will take to increased usage in of advanced information and communicating engineerings. Therefore, our research was concentrated on all facets on the ICT: computing machine hardware and package, every bit good as their practical content.HardwareComputers and devices, normally referred to as hardware, is a platform of any ICT system and should be carefully selected with the thought of being portion of the educational procedure behind. Despite its evident young person, computing machines have a reasonably rich history. The thought of automatizing computations which gave rise to the creative activity of the first computer science devices is non new and has been entertained for a long clip. The first operational summing machine was built in 1642, Blaise Pascal, a Gallic physicist, mathematician and applied scientist. Despite the fact that the initial computations were performed by mechanical devices and tools, such devices can still be considered as tools of information processing and, accordingly, the predecessors of the computing machines used in assorted Fieldss of human activities, including instruction. Even four decennaries ago the calculation was widely done by mechanical reckoners, and electro-mechanical proto-computers. However, because of its massiveness, trouble of usage, high cost, low-speed of information processing and a figure of other grounds a computing machine could non happen a proper application in the field of instruction at that clip. A rare exclusion is higher instruction, the handiness of computing machines in which justified the demand for preparation in a figure of professions such as computing machine scientific discipline. Furthermore, instructors and pupils work normally with one computing machine. It is in these universities sprung up first experience of computerized instruction. However, the existent large-scale debut of computing machines into all educational activities took topographic point in the early 80-ies of the last century ; Personal computers stressed the word ‘personal ‘ i.e. one computing machine – one individual attack ; its concentration, velocity, comparatively low cost, handiness of a big figure of devices that extend the capablenesss of personal computing machines, all that contributed to the rise of Personal computer in every aspect of our lives, including instruction. The chief way of Personal computer development was on spread outing capacity to treat information. Gradually, the hardware evolved and allowed people to make, shop, procedure and transmit text, artworks, exposures and picture cartridge holders and sound. Due to its versatility personal computing machines provide maximal sum of benefits for instruction intents. Most of the instructors and pupils are working with personal computing machines available in ever y school. Through personal computing machines held theoretical lessons and practical exercisings, measured the degree of cognition, and conducted research, distributed work load, and planned extra-curricular activities, carried out educational undertakings and self-cultivation activities. In this respect, computing machine hardware is, by definition, an built-in portion of the ICT tools used in instruction, it is of import to understand the features of Personal computers and other hardware devices available on the market today. Regardless of the trade name, theoretical account, clip of creative activity and the application of all personal computing machines have common cardinal characteristics such as: Personal computer is personal: one-to-one relationship. Ability to procedure, storage, present and transmit assorted types of informations, including text, numerical informations, artworks, sound, picture, etc. Ability to uniform communicate with the user in a linguistic communication near to natural Ability to add assorted hardware devices that significantly expand capablenesss of a Personal computer Internetwork connectivity Recently with the coming of the note- and net-books the characteristic of mobility got high congratulationss in concurrence with the development in the nomadic broadband connectivity enabling people to utilize these Personal computers irrespective of their location. The method of human interaction with a computing machine and type the needed package depends on the computing machine hardware platform. This construct includes a set of characteristics of the computing machine, the built-in trade name and maker ‘s specific hardware. Two such platforms traditionally prevail in the country of instruction. In 1976 the first computing machine Apple Macintosh was developed by Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs. Creation of such computing machines on the monolithic graduated table was the chief drift to the formation of Personal computer fabrication industry. In 1981 the first personal computing machine by IBM has entered the market. IBM Personal computer and Apple Macintosh constructs are the most normally used in instruction. Regardless of the hardware platform personal computing machines have all the characteristics of import to better the preparation of pupils and can every bit be used to accomplish the ends of cybernation of instruction. There is nevertheless an issue of hardware compatibility and its inoperability, and this of import inquiry demands to be answered before any investing is made for this or that platform. Very frequently the solution lies with the instructors and school governments. One of the most appropriate attacks to finding the adequateness of the computing machines ‘ hardware is to see and measure the needful capablenesss of the hardware/software/content and their interoperability at the planning phase so they fit to aims under specified fortunes. The most advanced, powerful and expensive computing machines may non ever be a demand for ICT planning. To accomplish effectual larning it is frequently sufficient to utilize older, less advanced Personal computers. In the same item, replacing them with the latest theoretical accounts does non impact the effectivity of learning pupils dramatically. To find the adequateness of hardware, evidently, there must be a valid characteristics comparison prosodies with the demands imposed by the package. In this respect, it is of import to cognize what the specifications of computing machines are available to instructors. Soon based on the Personal computer model the parametric quantities include but non limited to: Computer public presentation ( CPU clock velocity ) Sum of RAM Hard disc infinite CD/DVD ROM Speed Video Card ( type and sum of memory card, type, size and declaration of the proctor ) Computer Audio ( sound card type, the type of talker, a mike ) Network card Modem Wireless ( Wi-Fi, Bluetooth ) Printer ( Peripheral ) Scanner ( Peripheral ) It should be noted that in finding the above parametric quantities important consideration should be given to the type of the operating system, every bit good as ability to entree to local and planetary telecommunications webs. The visual aspect of any new peripheral devices in the school typically provides new chances for instructors and pupils. For illustration, the outgrowth of digital computing machine based projection opens new possibilities doing them more graphic and entertaining that in return facilitates the assimilation of educational stuff. Clearly, these and other characteristics introduced into instruction by peripherals and personal computing machines, enhance motive for acquisition, increase the objectiveness of the rating of larning results and advance self-cultivation, extracurricular and research activities meanwhile significantly simplifying professional activities of instructors and school disposal. Additionally, progressively the specialised peripheral devices that relate to specific topics of educational stuff are being used. These devices are digital electronic microscopes used in learning biological science, digital ohmmeter, voltmeters and ammeters used in the survey of natural phil osophies, planetary placement device ( GPS ) , used for field trips in local history lessons. Along with positive facets, there are nevertheless some negative effects caused, chiefly, by the negative impact on wellness and psychological status of pupils and instructors. The limitations and recommendations for the hardware use in educational stuff vary well depending on the age. Thus it is of import to observe that the usage of computing machines in primary schools should be governed by the supervising organic structure of the authorities which should come up with the regulations and ordinances regulating the safe usage of appropriate equipment in schools.ICT and instructors: facets of the computer-assisted instruction.At present clip the measure of both, hardware and package, available at any given school is near to the impregnation point, at which the significant addition in calculating power does non ensue in relevant end product in quality of instruction. As such, it becomes appa rent and pressing that the equipment halt playing a prima function and the scheme of the practical execution becomes paramount. Acerate leaf to state that the effectual usage of ICT is impossible without instructors ‘ ability to use such tools to their full extent ; in peculiar, instructors must cognize where and how to happen the needed class stuffs in telecommunication webs, able to utilize such webs in assorted facets of acquisition, cognize how to show the contents of academic topics through multimedia engineerings, how to use multimedia acquisition. The interview research conducted by the group has revealed a figure of facets related to these demands: preparation in engineering of computer-based instruction is portion of the educational content ICT used in instruction is simply a tool for work outing jobs, its usage should non go an terminal end usage of computer-assisted larning extends the human head and addresses the educational and professional ends Training in working with the ICT is one of the methods of puting a mentality of information society. With of all time deeper engagement of the ICT in instruction procedure, the civilization of preparation and the instructor ‘s function in the acquisition procedure is altering. With a bigger accent on self-cultivation the function of teacher becomes more consultative and remedial than of all time before. The skillset required is besides broadens from silo of a general topic to more inter-disciplinary set of topics. Significantly increases the demands for personal, cultural and communicative qualities of the instructor. It is besides becomes apparent that, unluckily, computer-based preparation plans are created by package applied scientists without any input from the experts in the field of psychological science, educations, content and learning techniques. Furthermore, it is besides good known fact that pedagogues with extended experience, as a norm, are non thirstily following the new ICT based methods and, by virtuousness of conservative thought, non ever understanding their significance. These instructors have a important psychological barrier towards the computing machine engineering and package based information resources, which is normally masked by uncertainties about their pedagogical pertinence in educational procedure. Sometimes, nevertheless, such underestimate is due to superficial familiarity with rules and procedures of the computer-assisted instruction. In footings of computer-assisted instruction, all instructors could be divided into two chief classs: teachers-users of ready-to-use ICT installations and teachers-developers of pedagogical tools and techniques. The instructor must get the hang basic computing machine accomplishments, have a current overview of the most common package bundles, able to work with word processors, dispersed sheets, any well-known specialised preparation plans, and able to get the hang the telecommunication interaction with co-workers and pupils every bit good as freely navigate the planetary online beginnings of information. Training of the instructors, who themselves engaged in developing of the electronic information resources, should be kindred to the degree of developing given to power users or even package applied scientists in some instances – this is indispensable for the proper degree of ICT tools comprehension and rational design of the ICT construction. For instructors involved into dev elopment it is highly of import to understand and run in country of convergence between the design and the usage of ICT and rule of instruction and psychological science. The ideal scenario would be a originative pudding stone of squad members that possess system and application development accomplishments, psychological science, teaching method, design and ergonomic. Due to the fact that electronic information resources become in this instance non merely educational stuff, but besides a piece of package, the content of the class needs to be restructured consequently. Therefore, in order to make an ICT a thorough apprehension of structural and holistic position of the educational stuff is a must. Teachers are actively engaged in the development and usage of ICT tools must hold a sufficient degree of preparedness. This means that instructors must get the hang the accomplishments of the user, have a general thought about package capablenesss and be experts in the field of a peculiar subject. Requirements for the instructor, utilizing ICT tools consist of the traditional demands for any educator, but besides need to stress the ability to utilize information engineering and practical facets of ICT. The traditional demands include: Organizational ( work planning, ability to drive involvement in larning, etc. ) Educational ( ability to choose and fix convincing and consistent preparation stuff, etc. ) perceptual ( ability to ‘understand ‘ a pupil and tailor educational stuff towards the demands and involvements of a student ) Communication ( the ability to set up an expedient relationship with students, their parents, co-workers, schoolmasters, etc. ) research ( ability to understand and objectively measure jobs and procedures ) scientific ( ability to absorb needful cognition of a peculiar topic ) topic ( professional cognition ) The ICT transforms and imposes extra demands on the traditional skillset. For case instructor becomes less dependent on the traditional pedagogical technique, particularly in non-verbal agencies of communicating. However, in malice of the widespread use of resources information engineering, the primary map of instructors – direction of the acquisition procedures and development of schoolchildren must stay.Methods of developing instructors in ICTUse of ICT positively influences instructors ‘ productiveness and increases effectivity of students larning. At the same clip, albeit the overwhelmingly impact of ICT use, in some instances it has no consequence and even may ensue in a negative impact. Obviously, the ICT preparation demands to be well-structured and integrated on the footing of the best-practices attack and must be a portion of the course of study for the pupils prosecuting grade in instruction. The chief ends of ICT preparation are: Familiarization with the positive and negative facets of utilizing ICT in instruction. Definition of function and topographic point of ICT in the information society. Establishing a position of the species composing and countries of effectual usage of educational engineerings for making, processing, presentation, storage and transmittal of information. Familiarization with best patterns, techniques and methods of ICT use in educational procedure, monitoring and measuring of larning result. Developing an ICT centric skillset and cognition, basic rules and methods of measuring ICT tools quality. Developing a sustainable motive enabling instructor to take part in formation and execution of ICT environment. Provide teachers a farther chance to explicate the students ‘ function and topographic point of ICT in the modern society. The overall success of the ICT use can be assessed based on the demands of the educational procedure. There several such demands: Requirements associated with the creative activity of cognition which is interdisciplinary in nature. The demand of the pupils to get the hang the analysis, i.e. state of affairss affecting computations, look intoing and treating the consequences of computations every bit good as development of the generic accomplishments in each subject ( categorization, analysis and synthesis, ability to plan an experiment, collect and analyse informations gathered ) . The demand to develop pupils ‘ originative accomplishments. Such demands arise in work outing optimisation jobs with a figure of possible results – the most rational pick of the most cost-efficient solutions. The demands related to the demand of developing certain personal qualities of moral and societal ( duties towards society, themselves, towards each other ) nature. The instructor ‘s duty lies with optimisation of the ICT use – profiting the most from the engineering can offer and minimising possible negative facets associated with the work of students with huge unfiltered information available electronically. The content of instructors ‘ ICT preparation should be included the following cardinal constituents: ICT and its usage in instruction. Positive and negative facets of computer-assisted instruction. The feasibleness and effectivity of the ICT. Computerization of instruction and its portion in the information society. Types of audio-visual and proficient equipment used in instruction. Computers and their types. Peripheral equipment. Technology and multimedia. Telecommunication installations used in instruction. Storage and presentation of information. Information modeling. Methods of informations transportation. Computer networks as agencies of acquisition. ICT and its function in the acquisition procedure. Methods for measuring the quality of ICT tools. ICT use in schoolroom and in distance acquisition. Customization of larning procedure. Control and appraisal of the acquisition results. Computerization of extracurricular activities. Computerization of research methods. Computerization of organisational and managerial maps of educational procedure. Information engineering and work with parents. In decision, it should be noted that instructors must non merely possess cognition in ICT tool, techniques and engineerings but besides be experts on the application of these new engineerings in their professional activities. In this undertaking the squad did non put a end of covering all issues related to the usage of information and communicating engineerings. Furthermore, many facets of ICT usage in instruction are still undiscovered and necessitate further survey. At the same clip, the content of the research attempted to measure the chief elements and characteristics of debut and use of ICT, electronic informations and educational resources, evaluate demands needed to measure the quality of ICT tools, classified ICT tools and reviewed methods of carry oning the ICT enabled categories, depicting the advantages of utilizing such tools outside of the schoolroom and touched on facets of computerized direction of educational establishments. The research besides revealed that the grea test efficiency of the educational procedure utilizing educational ICT tools is achieved so these tools fulfil the demands of instruction identified in our paper.

Measurements: Accuracy and Approximations

The need for accurate and precise measurements in today’s modern world cannot be understated.   Every discipline, from the physical sciences to the social sciences requires measurements that are both accurate and repeatable.   It must be accepted, though, that any measurement has inherent inaccuracies and imprecision and is indeed an approximation. Any measuring device has limited accuracy.   The inability to read the measurement beyond the smallest division shown on the device creates an approximation.   If the smallest division on a ruler is one millimeter, then the accuracy of the measurement will be to the nearest millimeter (Giancoli 2005, p. 5).   No measuring device can give absolutely accurate results.   There will always be an uncertainty generated with any measurement.   The more accurate the device, the less the amount of uncertainty that will be generated, but absolute accuracy will never be obtained.   Therefore all measurements will include some error (Giancoli 2005, p. 5). The awareness of the unit size that is being used to record the measurement and the need for accuracy is a critical aspect of measurement.   Measuring an item when accuracy to the nearest kilogram is all that is needed is far easier than measuring the same item to the nearest microgram.   The difference, of course, is that in the kilogram example the amount of error is plus or minus one kilogram, and in the second case it is plus or minus one microgram. Obviously, the second measurement is far more accurate, but harder to obtain.   The smaller the unit size that the device is capable of measuring, the greater the accuracy, and normally the more expensive the device.   If great precision is not needed, then a less expensive device may be used. Consider the difference between a scale in a supermarket used to measure vegetables and a scale in a pharmaceutical laboratory that is used to measure drugs.   In the first case the scale may be accurate to only one tenth of a pound.   This level of inaccuracy is acceptable for  vegetables.   If you are buying five pounds of tomatoes, it really does not matter if you get 4.9 or 5.1 pounds.   The laboratory scale, though, must have a higher level of accuracy.   Obviously, an error of plus or minus one tenth of a pound is unacceptable in the pharmacy business.   In this case, accuracy to the nearest tenth of a milligram would be more reasonable. Another comparative example of how the awareness of the need for accuracy would affect the level of error is in the measurement of volume.   If a contractor is going to repave a stretch of street with asphalt, that contractor would measure the length and width of the road, probably in feet, and the thickness required, probably in inches, and calculate the cubic yards of asphalt needed for the project.   The amount of asphalt would be, in all likelihood, measured to the nearest cubic yard.   A cook in a restaurant adding water to potatoes is going to measure the amount in cups, with an accuracy that is dependent on the quality of the measuring cup.   Obviously the cook has a much greater need for a higher level of accuracy than the contractor. REFERENCES Giancoli, D. C. (2005).   Physics.   (6th ed., pp. 5-7).   Upper Saddle River:   Pearson Prentice Hall.   

The Reliability and Validity of Measurements

Measurement error is easily identified using measures of reliability. In the abstract sense, reliability is described as a matter of whether a particular technique, used repeatedly towards a similar subject, would supply the same result for every measurement event. The measure of reliability is the measure of the random errors in a measurement. Consequently, the more reliable the measurement is, the less would be the random error in it (Rubin and Babbie, 2004, p. 182). Rubin and Babbie (2004) mentioned that reliability does not guarantee accuracy.For example, if two measurement apparatus are not synchronized or standardized to each other, they might still reflect the same measurement, but the other apparatus might have been adjusted to some extent in order to confirm with the result of the measurement of the other apparatus (). Validity on the other hand is defined as the extent to which an empirical measure satisfactorily represents the real meaning of the variable being measured. T here is actually no basis to determine the adequacy of the measure. Comparison and agreement to pre-existing terms or concepts is done to accept the validity or not (Rubin and Babbie, 2004, p.186).Reliability is not a qualification to conclude that the measurement done is valid. We may say that the measured values, especially in quantitative research, are precise, but not accurate. There are also cases that the resulting measurements are accurate to some level, but are imprecise. In the worst case would be that the measurements are imprecise and inaccurate. Because of this, a certain tension exists, whether to choose reliability over validity, or the other way around (Rubin and Babbie, 2004, p. 198).Of course, the target would be to collect both valid and reliable data, and this can be obtained by being strict to the implementation of the procedures for measurement: being thoughtful and less sloppy. The difference between the two is that reliability requires fewer variables, and the refore less validity, vice versa. This kind of relationship is still in conflict (Martin, 2005). We could say therefore, that a measurement is valid even if it is not a reliable measurement, since the way to prove the reliability is the repeatability and reproducibility of the results.Also, the requirement to strengthen the validity is to consider many relevant variables and to get near to the exact value, while on reliability, there is no requirement for such (Martin, 2005). References Martin, Rogel L. (2005). Reliability vs. Validity. Retrieved August 29, 2008, from http://www. businessweek. com/innovate/content/sep2005/id20050929_872877. htm Rubin, Allen and Earl R. Babbie. (2004). Research Methods for Social Work. Retrieved August 29, 2008, from http://books. google. com. ph/books? id=eAdbEn-yZbcC

A Recurring Theme in the Letter of James is that of Doubleness' People Essay

A Recurring Theme in the Letter of James is that of Doubleness' People Say One Thing and Do Another - Essay Example In verse eleven, he stresses this point by saying that a fountain does not shed sweet and bitter water at the same since this is a powerful contradiction. Nor can a fig tree bear olive berries (McCartney, 2009, p.243). In (James 2:14-17), he stresses that faith without actions is death. For instance, if a brother is cold, ill-dressed and lacks food and you say to him ‘go well eat and keep warm, you have not actually helped him because you have not provided to him his actual needs. Thus, this is faith without actions and should not be seen among Christians. Just as the body without the spirit is dead, faith without works is also dead (James 2:26). James, therefore, earnestly and unconditionally discourages the act of double-mindedness among Christians. He encourages Christians to put what they say into actions or in other words that Christians should practice their actions (Batten, 2009, p.145). Circumstances and Background of the Letter Some Christian scholars claim that the le tter of James was authored by James the Just, who served Jesus Christ and the Lord as a slave. The postulation also describes James to be the brother to the Lord Jesus Christ. This is, however, denied by some other group of scholars who argue that the letter is pseudonymous. Although the book is named after James, it was actually written long after his death. This was written, as they say, by a Christian member of the early church James led before being stoned to death in the ‘60s. The book is purported to have been written and named after James in order to honor and respect him for his works (Johnson, 1995, p. 163). The author of this book could not be one of the disciples of Jesus Christ since one of them was called James, the Zebedee’s son, who was martyred in the year 44 CE. The epistle was not written by then, thus, he could not have been the author. The other was James the son of Alphaeus who was not particularly prominent in the record of the scriptures. This dis ciple was unusually outspoken and, thus, could he have written the book of James, he would have indicated that he was among the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. There is a strong evidence that the book was written by James the half-brother of the Lord Jesus Christ to whom the resurrected Jesus had appeared to in a special way (Mathew 13:55; Galatians 1:19, 2:9). This James was also remarkably prominent to the disciples of Jesus and popular among them (Acts 21:15-25). According to the teaching of the book with the Symmachian sect, it is questioned as to whether the teachings of James were heretical (McCartney, 2009, p.265). The greatest portion of the scholars of the Bible has a belief that the book of James was authored by James, who was the brother to Jesus the Lord. However, scholars like Jerome do not marry the idea and think that the book was written by James son of Alpheus (Mathew 10:3). The view of Jerome is widely supported by the catholic believers to date. The protestant c ommunity strongly deems that the writer of the book of James is James the brother to the Lord (Mathew 13:55). The Jews of Jerusalem once valued James so much and enthroned him at Jerusalem (Acts 25:11). James is recorded to have supported some of the Mosaic Law, and this might have led him to write that letter which was in conflict with the epistles of Paul (Acts

Analysis of the Effect of the Recession on Hypermarket Retailing Essay

Analysis of the Effect of the Recession on Hypermarket Retailing Industry in Brazil - Essay Example The economic reviews of Brazil’s retail industry out that the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rates are cumulatively increasing year by year. The practice of consolidation of the hypermarket retail industry has been continuing but in general, the hypermarket remains comparatively fragmented, representing substantial span for the big players to develop their market strength in future. The leading 3 market players are controlling the hypermarket retail industry in Brazil; they are Pao de Acucar, Carrefour, and Wal-Mart. Other players are leading through acquisition. The recession affects the revenue of sales and the decline of the profit in the retail industry, Recession is defined as "a significant decline in economic activity spread across the economy, lasting more than a few months, normally visible in real gross domestic product (GDP), real income, employment, industrial production and wholesale-retail sales" (What causes a recession? 2012). In this study, the recession affects the business of hypermarket retailing industry. Recession affects various aspects of business such as the purchasing power of consumers, buying behavior, and the income disposable level of people has increased significantly. There are many other factors that contribute to the fall in economy's into a recession, but inflation is the major reason for recession. â€Å"Inflation is defined as a sustained increase in the general level of prices for goods and services† (All about Inflation 2012). Inflation indicates the general increase in the price of products and services over time period. The rate of inflation is higher; the consumers purchase lower percentage goods and services with the same price. The time of recession affects the hypermarket industry in Brazil; the major players of hypermarket industry in Brazil are Pao de Acucar, Carrefour and Wal-Mart. Recession mainly affects these companies because they are retail stores. â€Å"The ec onomic crisis makes low-price concepts particularly adapted, and all three international retailers can potentially benefit from this trend. Expansion in Brazil is still ongoing and a strategic focus for all three groups† (Carrefour, Casino and Wal-Mart’s Expansion Strategies in Latin America 2012). Hypermarkets provide durable and non-durable goods. The retail industry of Brazil is segmented in three parts, they are Grocery Retail Non-Grocery Retail Non-Store retail These three categories are the main drivers of Brazil’s retail industry. The retailing of grocery is at a constant growth, and has gained its sustainability to the growing people who belong to low income group. The hypermarkets and large retailers are focusing on grocery, and also investing on the non-grocery items such as foot wears, fashion clothing, and sundries. The retailer’s Wallmart and Carrefour focus on developing personal labels for their own clothing brands and footwear. The Recessio n Impact of Retail Industry: â€Å"A recession normally takes place when consumers lose confidence in the growth of the economy and spend less, this leads to a decreased demand for goods and services, which in turn leads to a decrease in production, lay-offs and a sharp rise in unemployment† (Malik & Pandit 2012). The impact of recession in retail industry will decrease the proper demand and also enforces stress on the prices, and leads to the absence of price-war in the retail market. To keep the consumers, the

DISSERTATION (Litrature Review) Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

(Litrature Review) - Dissertation Example This is disturbing for the UK economy as international students help to fund UK higher education. Migrants come to the UK for various reasons and students comprise of about 26% of the total migrants that enter UK as shown in the chart below: Source: Somerville & Sumption (2009). However, the precise number of international students is not known as no statistics are maintained of both the private and the public sector institutions (UKCISA, 2010). Amongst those studying full-time at publicly funded higher education institutions 214,000 were non-EU students out of a total of 306,000 students. The public funded further education colleges and the private colleges could have more non-EU students but the figures are not known. The immigration statistics can be confusing as those studying for less than six months are granted visa under a different category called ‘student visitors’. The non-EU students that have been granted clearance in the past few years are as shown in the ta ble below: Source: UKCISA (2010). These figures show a sharp increase over the past few years. The private institutions can set their own fees but at the state funded institutions the non-EU students have to pay the total fees with fees typically being between ?8000 and ?15000. International students account for over 40% of the total postgraduate students (UKCISA, 2010). About 50% of these students are engaged in research degrees but there is no subsidy offered to non-EU students. While there is a ‘cap’ on the number of EU students that can be accepted because of the limited funds, there is no cap on the number of international students that can be accepted. The private sector collages in the UK offer a wide variety of courses and are often less expensive thereby being affordable by the international students. International students contribute to the local economy because higher the number of students more jobs in the administration of the colleges and universities, add itional income or the UK universities and export income for the owners. International students enhance global connections. During the Asian financial crisis also student inflow had diminished in the UK while Australia had gained in student flow as a result. Another reason that student inflow is affected is because students started working along with studies as savings are reduced. The top ten UK student source countries have been shown in the table below: Source: Somerville & Sumption (2009). 2.3 Drivers of change in the current environment Internationalization of higher education is a response by academic institutions to a globalized world. This is basically a response to the new age which is marked by globalization, competition and marketization (Cheung, Yuen, Yuen & Cheng, 2011). Internationalization of education can be done in many forms and currently the most important form is the exporting of higher education service done through recruitment of overseas students. UK and Austra lia had so far been leading in recruitment of international students but Singapore is fast catching up. In Singapore education is considered a â€Å"knowledge industry† and accounts for more than 3 percent of the GDP. Education is fast becoming a global, market-oriented, private industry, and international mobility of students is a major concern for HEIs. The international trade in education services has become a major source of income in many countries. In Australia education services sector was the third largest exporter in 2007 while in the

Introduction to Global Business Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Introduction to Global Business - Assignment Example First, Silence is consent and it might be that their silence to contribution is a means of approval to the points contributed in the meeting. The use of individualism is a dimension that is of great impact in the meeting. If they contributed to the meeting, they might spoil the broth by changing the theme since it appears like Sue has a great trust in them. Sue being the project manager she should be motivated by the dimension of femininity and like her role as the leader for charity begins at home. She should believe in herself and things will work out as she wants. Nowadays, innovation has become a continuous event. Over years things have been changing drastically from one generation to another due to the fact of improvement from the various ideas or deeds. In the industry of music it is evident that music has been growing from various old styles to newer styles which until today have never been exhausted. New artist come up almost daily and others are being born. Each of the artists that come up has got his/her style in the music industry. Rap music is one of the fields in the music industry which has shown great success. It has grown from various themes like humor, and lightheartedness in the late 80’s and early 90’s till it begun to take a darker turn where the theme nowadays is mostly about Cars, Money, and Fame. Various groups like NWA by Eazy-E, Ice Cube and Dr. Dre are one of the main leaders of rap and they are the founders of what is now called the gangsta rap. New culture goes hand in hand with new things that come as a result of changes from the previous ways of lifestyle. The daily struggles of living in poverty and illicit ways of obtaining money became the theme and it started from there. Since then, rap has branched out with people having commercial success, and has exploded in popularity. Currently rap is not the same everywhere; it has reached a position of

Article Critique Assessment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Article Critique Assessment - Essay Example This paper aims at discussing the article and to find the issues and possible loop holes of the paper. The main reason this article has been chosen is that it deals with the security threats of eCommerce as well as the various threats to the accounting information systems. The authors have also discussed the implications to the management as well. This article is appropriate in the current times, where almost every business has launched an eCommerce website and the numbers of businesses online are constantly increasing every minute, this article is helpful in bringing out the threats being faced and the repercussions that these threats have on the management helps the businesses focus on the factors that need to be taken into account. Hence this article is very relevant in the current times and to a great extent provides the readers with a clear and well explained list of implications on various parties including, management, accountants and auditors, and academics. The article is al so very insightful as it provides a clear explanation of the need for security which can be easily overlooked in the current times. On the whole, the article provides a great insight into the security issues that relate to accounting information systems and excellent ways to reduce the threat levels of these systems. The article is very effective with a detailed explanation of the various aspects and views for different audiences. The article by Beard and Wen has touched upon a few essential aspects of accounting Information systems. The authors have discussed a wide range of issues that are being faced by companies across the world. An excellent point that the authors have included in the paper is the issues that are being faced due to the wide expansion of the internet and the newer opportunities that are being opened up for almost every business and the easy accessibility to break down all barriers of trade and all the physical barriers. The article has a major focus

Evaluation Essay Any topic Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Evaluation Any topic - Essay Example My brother's fish tank has the correct mix of fish, is clean, and is a pleasure to watch. An aquarium is first and foremost a place where the fish will spend their entire life. Having the correct combination of species is critical to maintaining balance in a fish tank. Some fish will be more aggressive and attack smaller fish. In addition, the tank needs a well balanced mixture of bottom, middle, and top feeders to keep the tank clean of uneaten food. Aquarium expert Thomas Narten reminds us, "Not all species of fish mix well with others". My brother has a Beta that feeds on the top, tetras and lionfish to feed the middle, and catfish that live as bottom feeders. They are not aggressive and stay in their own territory. My brother has provided a well balanced environment for these fish to spend the rest of their lives in. The fact that the fish will spend their entire lives in this tank demands that it remain clean. My brother has chosen to utilize an undergravel filter. This arrangement draws water through the gravel at the bottom of the tank and the settling debris is used to feed the plants and bottom feeders that reside there. The test of a filtering system is water clarity and in this my brother has succeeded. The water is spotless with no floating debris.

Research critique of a quantitative article Essay

Research critique of a quantitative article - Essay Example 3. List the researcher's suggestions for further studies. As noted on page 131, the researchers advise repeating the same study while controlling for surgical procedure and the use of nitrous oxide, to determine any causative attributes. They also suggest that a future investigation might compare scopolamine as a single agent, as well as concluding on page 132 that future studies could also consider other antiemetics affecting alternative receptor pathways. 4. Indicate if the findings are clinically significant. The majority of findings in the study are clinically significant, as indicated on page 130, Tables 1-3, as well as Figures 1-3. These significant findings include the overall incidence of nausea within 24 hours of surgery, the initial PACU antiemetic treatment, the second PACU nausea treatment, the mean time to first request for nausea treatment, the time to the first nausea event, as well as the time to the first emetic event. The incidence of emesis did not achieve statistical significance, nor was any significant difference noted in the demographic variables, patch placement times, or the occurrence of side effects. 5. Identify the implications of the findings for nursing. ... Particularly, the use of a transdermal methodology will require nurses to interact with patients regarding proper use, symptomology, and postoperative procedure. 6. Identify the researcher's generalization of the findings. The generalization of the findings is found on page 127, in the abstract. It summarizes the article and offers a condensed recommendation. 7. Evaluate the sample. a. Sampling criteria. The sample criteria were straightforward and appropriate to the purpose of the study. By establishing an ASA I or II in patients 18 years or older, as well as excluding those with potentially mitigating conditions (p. 128), the researchers avoided skewing the results. b. Sample size. The sample size was adequate to the task of initial investigation, but too small to draw sweeping conclusions. The authors attenuated the effect of a relatively small sample size by performing a power analysis as discussed on page 129, and wisely allowed for attrition. c. Characteristics of sample. The sample group was diverse in terms of gender, race, and risk factors present, but all participants fell within the primary criteria of having three or more high risk factors for PONV. d. Sample mortality. There were no anaphylactic incidents within either sample group. There was attrition of four subjects as noted on page 129, one for accidental removal of the transdermal patch, one for failure to properly log responses during the data collection period, and two for intentional removal of the TD patches. e. Method used to obtain the sample. As noted on page 128, the sample was obtained after approval from the institutional review board and focused on high-risk patients scheduled to undergo general anesthesia of longer than one hour. Once

Film analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Film analysis - Essay Example Analysis A group theory was put forth by Schutz (1958). He looked at three dimensions of groups. The first dimension is the in-out dimension, or inclusion, and this is where the people in the group are either in the group or out of the group. The second dimension is the up-down dimension, or control, and this looks at the members of the group according to how dominant, or submissive, they are to one another. The third dimension is the close-far dimension, or affection, and this how tight the link is between the individual members (Schutz, 1958). This is the basis for examining the film, by examining how the relationships between the members of the group fit the above definitions, and how the relationships were fluid, in that the dynamics constantly changed and the how the group was defined, according to these three dimensions, changed along with it. The first dimension is the in-out dimension, and this states that some people are members of a group, while others are not. In the begin ning, there was not a group, per se, but a bunch of individuals who were thrown together on a Saturday, most against their will. However, that said, there was a bonding between the two popular kids, Andrew and Claire. They were the only two who knew one another, so, if there was the possibility of having a group that consisted of only two members, then Andrew and Claire were part of a group and everybody else was not. The film implied that the two ran in the same circle in school, as, at one point, Andrew asked Claire if she were going to a certain party. So, then, in the beginning, the â€Å"in† kids were Andrew and Claire, and the â€Å"out† kids were everybody else. This gradually changed. The first indication that maybe the kids were becoming a group was when Bender took the screw out of the door that was to remain open, and the principle came in to ask who did it. The entire group stated that they did not know who did it. This was the beginning of the formation of the group, because it was the beginning of group cohesiveness, and the beginning of the â€Å"us versus them† mentality that permeated throughout the film. This was a kind of theme in the film – that the kids, no matter how different they were from one another, still formed a cohesive whole when it came to authority, and would still cover for one another, no matter how they felt about the individual members of the group. The second major time that the kids became a group, in that all were a part of the group, and there was nobody outside the group, was when they went out into the hall to go to Bender’s locker. This was obviously something that could have gotten all of them into trouble, and Andy, at least, was not in a position to serve another Saturday detention, due to the fact that he had a meet on the following Saturday, so, at least for Andy, going out into the hall was a major risk. Presumably the other kids, with the exception of Allison, who wanted to b e there, and Bender, who had a series of other Saturday detentions lined up anyhow, also were taking a huge risk of getting another Saturday detention. Yet the kids all risked this by going out into the hall with Bender, despite the fact that none of them were needed for the task. That they all chose to do this shows that the kids were members of a group, because it shows that they were going to stick together. The going out into th

The Negative Impact of Drugs on Sports Entertainment Essay Example for Free

The Negative Impact of Drugs on Sports Entertainment Essay The non-medical use of performance enhancing drugs among adolescents and young adults is of growing concern.   As many as half a million Americans under age 18 may be abusing anabolic/androgenic steroids to improve their athletic performance, appearance and self-image.   A growing body of evidence suggests that medically unsupervised drug use may pose severe risks to physical and psychological health (Kashkin and Kleber, 1989).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Shockwaves went through the sports world when Canadian track superstar Ben Johnson was denied his gold medal at the 1988 Olympics after tests showed that he had taken anabolic steroids.    The incident called international attention to the use of anabolic steroids and in general, performance enhancing drugs among world-class athletes to gain competitive advantage.   Still, athletes and non-athletes alike persist in taking them.   And, in fact, it is known that athletes participating in the original Roman Olympic Games consumed them too (UNRV, 2003)!   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There are reports of male adults in physically demanding professions like law enforcement also using performance enhancing drugs to appear tougher as well as more formidable (Lombardo 1990).   What is more, as these drugs grow in popularity, so does awareness of the serious side effects of their use.   One of the most alarming side effects is the threat of AIDS; HIV — human immunodeficiency virus — can be transmitted if shared needles are used to inject the drug.   Potential harm to physical and psychological health is only one aspect of this troubling trend, though (Lombardo, 1990).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The non-medical use of performance enhancing drugs such as steroids, raises ethical and moral issues.   Engaging in steroids use is illegal and users are likely to find themselves acquiring these drugs through illicit and expensive channels. The heavy demand for anabolic steroids has given rise to black market, with sales estimated at as much as $400 million a year; moreover, supplies, which are often illegally manufactured and do not meet established standards, may be unhygienic (Miller, 1987).   Second, athletes who use these drugs are cheating because they gain an unfair advantage over opponents and violate the ban on steroids imposed by most major sports organizations.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Performance enhancing drugs may be addictive.   Users of steroids demonstrate an unwillingness to give them up even in the face of possibly dire consequences to their health.   As the health risks of anabolic steroids become more apparent, efforts to curtail their use — through education, legislation, and medical practices — are intensifying.   For those already hooked, kicking the steroids habit is the best chance to escape devastating side effects; for potential users, the solution, of course, is to never take the drug at all.   There are other ways to be a winner athletically and socially without harming health, and without cheating (Miller).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The use of performance enhancing drugs is spoiling the sports entertainment business today.   It is only fair for all athletes to give up drugs, or for all of them to take the same drugs with the same dosage at the same time.   If only a few athletes consume the drugs, it would be cheating on their part.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Still, it is best for all athletes to give up drug use altogether, seeing that there are harmful side effects, both psychological and physiological, related to the use of these drugs.   Given that many athletes are using performance enhancing drugs today, while the rest are not consuming them, these drugs most definitely have a negative effect on sports entertainment. References Kashkin, K. B., and Kleber, H. D. Hooked on Hormones? An Anabolic Steroid Addiction Hypothesis. Journal of the American Medical Association, December 1989. Lombardo, J. A. Anabolic/Androgenic Steroids. NIDA Research Monograph 102, 1990. Miller, R. W. Athletes and Steroids: Playing a Deadly Game, II.† FDA Consumer, November 1987. UNRV: Roman History. Archaeological News. â€Å"Drugs, Cheating Were Part Of Original Olympics Too,† 2003. Available at http://www.unrv.com/newsletter/newsletter-edition1.php. (5 February 2007).

How Sustainable Is Tescos Strategic Position?

How Sustainable Is Tescos Strategic Position? Jack Cohen, Tescos founder, began as a barrow boy. In 1947, he established one of the first pilot self-service stores in St. Albans in Hertfordshire (Bowlby, 2001, p7-18). Tesco is presently the biggest retailer in the United Kingdom with revenues in 2009 clocking $96,210 million. One third of the entire national food expenditure in the UK occurs at Tescos (Tesco, 2009, p1). The supermarket business in the UK is experiencing difficult times in the wake of the economic downturn. Tesco states that its UK sales growth was nearly flat during the previous quarter, even as it battled declining food prices (BBC, 2010). A supermarket chief who declined to be named stated that a bloodbath might be looming and thousands of jobs might be threatened (Finch Wood, 2010, p1). A fresh generation of supermarket chiefs is taking over the running of the  £130 billion UK retail sector at this uncertain juncture (Finch Wood, 2010). Sir Terry Leahy, Tescos Chairman, will retire in March 2011, after directing the retailer for 14 long years. He will be succeeded by Philip Clarke, currently in charge of Tescos Asian and European business (Telegraph, 2010). Sir Leahys departure proclamation came mere weeks after new chiefs had taken over at competitors Asda and Morrisons (Finch Wood, 2010, p1). This study aims to analyse various important strategy models to understand the strategic position of Tesco, its key external drivers of change, and how it adds value. The study also examines the sustainability of Tescos strategic position. 2. Analysis The retailing business, both non-food and food, is going through a crisis (Finch Wood, 2010). The Like-for-like turnover for Tesco, excluding new store openings and petrol, increased 1.1 percent in the quarter to 30May (BBC, 2010, p1). The growth figure reduced to only 0.1 percent after factoring in the reinstatement of VAT to 17.5 percent; post its temporary cut (BBC, 2010, p1). Company sources said that the 30 percent increase in fuel prices over last year had reduced customer spends on other goods (BBC, 2010, p1). Richard Hunter, Head of UK Equities in Hargreaves Lansdowne Stockbrokers observed that imminent government belt-tightening measures would make it even harder for Tesco customers (BBC, 2010, p1). He added that the company is now exerting itself to achieve the type of progress customarily expected of it by the markets. Sir Terrys looming retirement has exacerbated uncertainty further, even as Tescos competitors continue to threaten its market domination (BBC, 2010, p1). 2.1. Tescos Strategic Position Johnson Scholes, in Exploring Corporate Strategy, (2002), defined strategy thus: Strategy is the direction and scope of an organization over the long term, which achieves competitive advantage for the organization through its configuration of resources within a changing environment and to fulfil stakeholders expectations (Stirr, 2003, p1). Michael Porters Generic Strategies model (1985) categorises 3 generic strategies into (a) cost leadership (b) differentiation and (c) market segmentation. Porter argues that a successful company needs to practice one of the 3 strategies. It must not get stuck in the middle between the two fundamental generators of competitive advantage, namely low prices and differentiation (Referaty, 2010, p1). He also recommends that companies with high market share should adopt cost leadership strategies to become profitable, even as companies with low market shares should target profitability through market segmentation or differentiation (Referaty, 2010, p1). Tescos strategies do not however appear to be influenced by Porters model. Whilst the company has over 30% market share in UKs grocery retailing, it does not offer discount shopping. It is also not the cheapest amongst major supermarket chains. It furthermore offers customers options of Tesco Finest and Tesco basic foodstuffs (Referaty, 2010, p1). Empirical evidence suggests that several companies adopt both low-cost and differentiation strategies (Referaty, 2010, p1). Tesco utilises low costs to offer superior differentiation and subsequently reinvests the returns to reduce the costs even more. It also strategically works towards differentiating through its community building approach (Referaty, 2010, p1). Tescos customers cannot be categorised into distinct social groups. Offering both cheap and expensive merchandise, it provides goods for customers with thin budgets and also for those with more purchasing power (Referaty, 2010, p1). Whilst this approach challenges Porters requirements for successful strategies, it seems to be functioning in Tescos favour (Referaty, 2010, p1). Cliff Bowmans Strategy Clock helps in the examination of a companys competitive position, compared to the offerings of competitors (E-fost, 2010, p1). Bowman, like Porter, believes that competitive advantage emanates, either from cost leadership or from differentiation advantage (E-fost, 2010, p1). Bowman however differs from Porter in some ways. Whilst agreeing with the concept of cost leadership he feels such tenets to be too general and brings in more detailed combinations of perceived added value and price. Bowman suggests the active consideration of eight core strategic alternatives (E-fost, 2010, p1). Table 1 below illustrates the eight alternatives Table 1: Bowmans Strategy Clock (Zanthus.com, p1) Bowmans eight alternatives comprise of (a) low price / low added value, which is liable to be segment specific (b) low price, which carries the danger of price war and small margins or organisations to be cost leaders, (c) hybrid options with lower cost base and reinvestment in differentiation and low price (d) differentiation alternative with / without a price premium that is able to bear price premium or yield market share benefits (e) focused differentiation, yielding perceived added value to specific segments (f) increased price / standard product, which could lead to risks of losing market share (g) increased price / low values, which is feasible in a monopoly situation, and (h) low value / standard price, resulting in loss of market share (E-fost, 2010, p1). Tesco has a firm and deep based strategy for growth, which works towards reinforcig its core UK operations and its the growth thrust in fresh markets (Quick facts, 2009, p1). The fundamental tenet of its strategy, formulated in 1997, concerns the expansion of business scope to permit delivery of robust and sustained long-term growth (Quick facts, 2009, p1). Such expansion is realised by pursuing existing Tesco customers and making them customers of various other UK Tesco businesses like non-food, telecommunications, and financial services (Quick facts, 2009, p1). The companys strategy has five objectives, viz (a) to be successful in its global retail business (b) to develop its mainstay UK business, (c) to be equally strong in non-food and food sectors (d) to expand other retailing and financial services, and (e) to position community at the heart of its strategy (Tesco plc, 2009, p1). Sir Terry said that when I became CEO I had a plan to build Tesco around its customers, to make it number one in the UK and to find new long-term growth in non-food, in services and international expansion. It has taken 14 years but that strategy has become a firm reality now and so I feel my work is almost complete (Telegraph, 2010, p1). 2.2. Key External Drivers PESTLE analysis helps in the analysis of the external macro environment within which a business functions (Rapdbi, 2010, p1). The understanding of opportunities or threats within the big picture environment in which a company operates helps in exploiting opportunities and minimising threats (Rapdbi, 2010, p1). It is a valuable tool for understanding the relationship between market growth or decline and the potential, position, and direction of a company or its business (Rapdbi, 2010, p1). PESTEEL is another extension of the same model and is an acronym for the political, economic, socio-cultural, technological, environmental, educational and legal dimensions that need to be analyses to evaluate the market for the strategic plans of organisations or businesses (Rapdbi, 2010, p1). These factors are briefly discussed as under. Tescos operations are often influenced by political conditions and developments within and outside the UK (Docstoc, 2010, p1). The company might for example have to respond to British and Columbian politics to protect its coffee supply (321books, 2010, p1). Recession has caused unemployment levels in the UK to rocket to 28.93million. Adverse economic conditions can affect consumer spending, as well as impact prices, costs, profits, demand and supply. UK retail turnover, for instance, reduced 0.7% during January 2010 in relation to the January 2009 numbers on a like-for-like basis. Sales in 2009 had increased 1.1% (KPMG, 2010, p1). Sociological factors can also greatly influence Tescos operations. Such factors are immense and can range from immigration to changes in fashion and consumer behaviour (321books, 2010, p1). British consumers have, experts state, turned into one stop shoppers urging chains to stock ever increasing ranges and varieties of goods (Docstoc, 2010, p1). Tesco makes use of technology to drive its business. It uses forecasted weather patterns to estimate demand and sales of its products and services. Their software, developed after 3 years of research, can indicate changes in sales that can occur because of a degree rise in temperature rise or an extra hour of sunshine (Swaminathan, 2009, p1). Technology also facilitates services like Tesco.com and self-checkout facilities (Docstoc, 2010, p1). Tescos environmental policy has resulted in adoption of measures to lower carbon emissions. The company aims to attain a 30 percent decline in the carbon impact on it entire supply chain by 2020; the overall objective is to become a zero carbon group by 2050 (Tescoplc.com [Press release, 2009]) (Docstoc, 2010, p1). Increasing educational levels affect organisations. Higher educational levels facilitate people to receive higher incomes. Increases in incomes also generate opportunities for procurement and sales of additional goods and services (Referenceforbusiness.com, 2010, p1). Tesco is also subject to various government policies and national legislatives, especially in areas of health, safety and labour. Failure in adhering to these can have a direct affect on its performance (Docstoc, 2010, p1). Porters Five Forces analysis for companies involves the evaluation of the external environment vis-a-vis the industry structure. The five forces comprise of barriers to entry, buyer power, consumer power, the threat of substitutes, and the degree of rivalry. Such assessments help firms to formulate approaches for exploitation of opportunities and protection from threats. Companies can thus accomplish competitive positioning and achieve differential advantage over the goods and services of their market rivals (Referaty, 2010, p1). The supermarket retail industry has very high barriers to entry. High capital requirements create major entry barriers for prospective firms. The need to achieve scale economies and high quality and specialised logistics also constitute difficult entry barriers. Tesco and other major supermarket chains have the financial and operational strength to buy and handle enormous volumes of merchandise, which helps them in pricing of products and satisfaction of various customer needs (Referaty, 2010, p1). New firms also need to contend with the loyalties developed by existing firms, such barriers being evinced by the failure of discount stores like Lidl or Aldi that been unsuccessful in not growing up to become major contenders in the retail market (Referaty, 2010, p1). Customers have options of shopping from diverse supermarket chains that compete on price and various promotions. Suppliers can wield considerable influence when they are in positions to claim price premium and also when the final merchandise on offer can be impacted by their quality and their delivery schedules. Tesco prefers to use a number of smaller suppliers rather than one big supplier. This increases its bargaining power and provides the company with the option of switching suppliers, if market and operational conditions so demand (Referaty, 2010, p1). The threat of substitutes plays an important role in assessment of competitiveness. Companies need to examine the tendency and chance of customers to switch to substitutes. They need to for example, in the case of an obsolescence threat, keep competition at bay by making their goods and services more attractive. Tesco, for instance, offers merchandise price check facility on its website, thus enabling customers to view substitutes by themselves (Referaty, 2010, p1). The extent of competitive rivalry depends upon the competitiveness of market participants. With all four major retail players aiming for a higher market share, the supermarket space in the UK is particularly competitive (Referaty, 2010, p1). Porters Five Forces, therefore, is a bottom line method of company analysis, from its own perspective. Essentially if goods or services cannot be differentiated, then competition mainly becomes price-based, and customer loyalty is difficult to ensure (Referaty, 2010, p1). 2.3. Tescos Value Addition Michael Porter advanced his theory on Value Chain Analysis in 1985 in response to criticism on the inadequacies of the Five Forces framework in implementation methodology that connected internal capabilities with opportunities in the competitive landscape (Provenmodels, 2010, p1). This framework centres on industry attractiveness being a causal factor in the earnings potential of all organisations in a particular industry. Considerable differences in performance occur between organisations operating within an industry (Provenmodels, 2010, p1). Value Chain Analysis can assist in identifying an organisations core competencies and differentiating the activities that give rise to competitive advantage. An organisations cost structure can be segregated by this method into discrete functions or processes on the presumption that the cost drivers for each of such activities work differently (Provenmodels, 2010, p1). Porter was able to compress an activity-based cost scrutiny into a standard template comprising of five primary and four support activities (Provenmodels, 2010, p1). These nine activities are categorised under two primary and support activity group areas. The primary activities comprise of (a) inbound logistics, comprising of materials handling, warehousin g, transportation and inventory control (b)operations, including machine operating, testing, assembly, packaging and maintenance (c) outbound logistics of warehousing, order processing, transportation and distribution (d) marketing and sales, comprising of promotion, advertising pricing, selling and channel management, and (e) services, including installation, spare part management and servicing (Provenmodels, 2010). The other support activities encompass (a) firm infrastructure, including general management, finance, planning, legal and investor relations (b) human resource management, encompassing education, recruitment, promotion and reward systems (c) technology development, including research development, product and process development and IT, and (d) procurement, comprising of purchase of raw materials and supplier contract negotiations (Provenmodels, 2010, p1). Attempts to engage in Value Chain Analysis of Tesco reveal various primary variables that can add or deplete value to the organisation (Docstoc, 2010, p1). In terms of primary variables, inbound logistics have an essential significance in the generation of the value chain since they offer the initial prospect to create value. Tesco has sophisticated and ever-improving inward logistics that strive to improve the level of in-store consumer choices (Docstoc, 2010, p1). The effectiveness of Tescos distribution system could be improved. The quality control system should also be administered more proficiently by the organisation to reduce customers being burdened with the cost of losses (Docstoc, 2010, p1). Service orientation lies at the core of Tescos operations. Services that need to be diligently administered include 24*7 activities and various store management functions involving opening and closing stores, shelf maintenance, and stock replenishment (Docstoc, 2010, p1). With regard to outbound logistics, value addition for Tesco can come about from reaching the goods to the customer, improving customer service, and implementing a customer friendly trolley service (Docstoc, 2010, p1). Tescos marketing and sales activity is represented by its distinct Clubcard. The card is instrumental in giving discounts, providing customer loyalty offers, and selling health, wellness, and environmentally friendly merchandise. It carries Tescos advertisements and the latest promotions on deploying recycled goods for assisting Tesco in becoming carbon free by 2050 (Docstoc, 2010, p1). 2.4. Unique Resources and Capabilities All organisational resources are not essential for an organisations competitiveness. The resources that do not help in building competitive advantage constitute threshold resources (Lioukas Voudouris, 2010, p1). Unique resources on the other hand are those which are not easily obtained by the competitors and can help development of competitive advantage (Lioukas Voudouris, 2010, p1). The same argument holds good for capabilities, which are obtained over time through application of resources and knowledge collation. DQE (Design, Quality and Environment) aims to develop unique capabilities and unique resources, which can help in building the foundation of competitive sustainability and competitive advantage (Lioukas Voudouris, 2010, p1). Table 2, provided below, illustrates the permutations of the unique resources and capabilities in forming the foundations of competitive advantages. Table 2: Unique resources capabilities: The base of competitive advantage (Lioukas Voudouris, 2010, p1). The strategy of sustainability entails all characteristics of strategy and incorporates elements of strategy formulation, strategy definition and execution, as also the issue of strategic options (Stirr, 2003, p1). Strategic position is generated by the inter-relatedness of activities (Stirr, 2003, p1). Organisations that really comprehend strategic positioning are experienced in activity mapping. They recognise their core competencies and frequently plot their own and their competitors activity network in order to assess the sustainability of their own strategic position (Stirr, 2003, p1). Any organisation can replicate a particular competitive activity. Discrete activities per se do not generate a strategic position (Stirr, 2003, p1). It is the grouping of activities that an organisation selects to execute for every strategic function (be it marketing, finance, operations and human resources), and the manner wherein such activities are supported and interconnected by business processes and systems, that lead to the building of a strategic position. The extent of interconnectedness and support of these activities determines the degree of sustainability of an organisations strategic position (Stirr, 2003, p1). Organisational strategies relating to marketing, finance, operations and human resources are sustained by internal business systems. These refer to the intricate combination of policies, procedures, hardware, software, budgeting, control mechanisms, et al, which facilitate the optimal flow of data and information through the entire organisation as it tries to provide for the requirements of its customers. An organisation that does not have a lucid strategic position will be transparently riddled with backlogs, omissions and breakdowns within its business systems (Stirr, 2003, p1). Business systems also focus on the means by which core competencies satisfy customer needs. It is through such systems that organisations leverage their entire accessible wherewithal on their customer requirements, build unique activity networks, remove waste through the entire organisation, and curtail their costs to the maximum possible extent. Conclusion: How sustainable is Tescos strategic position? The analysis of the diverse strategy models during the course of this study highlights the significance of strategy in garnering competitive advantages. The key external and internal drivers that compel continuous changes have also been examined. It has also been examined how core resources and competencies need to be utilised effectively and continuously to keep renewing drivers of growth. Activities or strategies per se neither generate competitive advantage nor sustainability. Enterprises that build a sustainable strategic position achieve it through the development of a number of distinct core competencies and by carrying out activities, (which stem from these competencies) that meet customer requirements (Stirr, 2003, p1).Organisations construct sustainable strategic positions by integrating their marketing, finance, operations, and human resource planning functions. They vigilantly review all the activities carried out by every functional sphere to ensure utmost integration (Stirr, 2003, p1). Strategy drives the scale and direction achievable by organisations in the long term and helps organisations in accomplishing competitive advantages through the arrangement of resources in a dynamic and aggressive changing environment to fully satisfy stakeholder expectations (Stirr, 2003, p1). The foregoing analysis reveals how Tesco actively and persistently works in different areas of strategy formulation to achieve competitive advantage and value addition. Tesco strives for sustainability though the deployment of its core resources and integration of all its functions across the board. This renders it with sustainable competitive advantages through the construction of high entry barriers in different operational areas. Such barriers keep new competition from getting and existing competition from achieving parity. The sustainability of Tescos strategic position is also evidenced by its purposeful aim to be a carbon free global organization by 2050.