Logitechs Global Distribution and Logistics Analysis Essay Example

Logitechs Global Distribution and Logistics Analysis Paper Chapter 1. Company Introduction Logitech is a world leader in personal peripherals, driving innovation in PC navigation, Internet communications, digital music, home-entertainment control, gaming and wireless devices (PriceGrabber. com 2007). The companys products combine essential core technologies, continuing innovation, award-winning industrial design and excellent price performance. Logitech International is a Swiss public company traded on the SWX Swiss Exchange under the symbol LOGN and on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol LOGI. In January 2007, Logitech was added to the NASDAQ-100 Index ® (Logitech 2008). Logitechs origins lie in the OEM sector, which remains an important part of its business, and represented 11. 6 percent of the companys total sales in Fiscal 2006 (PriceGrabber. com 2007). To meet the demands of its OEM customer base, which includes most of the worlds largest PC manufacturers, Logitech offers high-volume manufacturing with focused quality control, worldwide distribution and logistics, and the ability to leverage its infrastructure under changing demand conditions. Logitech continues to broaden its product offering and its presence in the retail sector. This is fueled by a trend among consumers to enhance their basic PC systems with more fully featured personal peripherals that add functionality and cordless freedom to their desktops. They are also purchasing supplementary devices designed for new applications and specific purposes such as gaming, multimedia, or audio and visual communication over the Internet. Further, Logitechs retail business includes personal peripherals for platforms beyond the PC, such as gaming consoles, portable music players, mobile phones and home-entertainment systems. We will write a custom essay sample on Logitechs Global Distribution and Logistics Analysis specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Logitechs Global Distribution and Logistics Analysis specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Logitechs Global Distribution and Logistics Analysis specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Today, Logitechs retail business accounts for 88. 4 percent of its revenue (Logitech 2008). To provide the market with a broadening array of best-of-category products, Logitechs business model calls for supplementing its internal engineering and manufacturing strength with additional products and technologies through a combination of strategic acquisitions and industry partnerships (PriceGrabber. com 2007). Chapter 2. Supply Chain Logitech is sensitive to the trend in IT industry. Customers are always long for updating their PCs accessories and purchasing stylish and personalized IT products. By this reason, Logitech has put a lots effort in fastening the launch of new products to the market to satisfy the needs and trends. Nevertheless, a well-operating supply chain is the conjunction to the successful achievement. The success of Logitech is to convert a simple and single-product supply chain into a complex and multi-product supply chain under harmlessness to its sales and to fasten the product delivery. However, behind this steady the deployment of its sources efficiently is the key, and Logitech has still insisted this merit. The development of Logitech starts from a simple and inelastic supply chain. In the beginning of ‘80s, Logitech started running the mouse-manufacturing business. The operation was running excellently with a simple supply chain. The single-product supply chain was supported by its manufactory in Suzhou, China and served the worldwide market. Although it was not efficient, it was enough for Logitech to cope with orders. Nowadays a simple supply chain can’t meet the requirements of Logitech anymore which has developed more and more product lines and has become a multi-product company. In 2005 Logitech have 135 kinds of PCs peripheral products in the market. Except for manufacturing over 6 million mice in a year, Logitech has also produced numerous peripheral products. In this case, the management of the simple supply chain has been no longer realistic. A more elastic supply chain which is able to deal with the changes of demand and compete against the pressure from competitors is what Logitech needs. Therefore, Logitech addressed itself to build the high visibility of its supplier-web, production and transportation transaction. However, the change resulted in a plentiful harvest. In the 2005 annual report, it shows a +13% growth in net income which reached 1. 93 billion USD. In spite of the markup of fuel and raw materials, the gross profit margin improved from 32% to 34%. The sales volume and net income of 1st quarter in 2005 raised 26% and 19%. This record was the fastest growth among previous 3 years. An elastic supply chain The supply chain of Logitech In the past, Logitech completed all the manufacturing process internally. However , in order to deal with the expansion of the transaction, Logitech started to outsource its manufacturing business, for instance, the acquisition of Labtec in 2001(Logitech 2008) whose products are mostly produced by ODM is one of them. Presently Logitech has maintained its 50% manufacturing business by it own and has outsourced other 50% to ODM. The emergence of ODM seems to prolong the supply chain. However, it didn’t reduce the performance of the supply chain. Conversely, it helped Logitech expanding its business to many new markets. In order to build a more elastic supply chain, the first step for Logitech is to fasten the reaction of the Suzhou manufactory to the orders. Logitech has founded 6 technology centers in worldwide which locate in Switzerland, U. S. , Canada, Taiwan, and Suzhou, China. By absorbing the technology forte of each country, the worldwide technology synergy worked very well. However, operating the connection between worldwide technology and the Suzhou basement harmoniously and delivering the products to the points of sale in the world efficiently is a complicated work. Consequently Logitech decided to adopt a diversified supply chain strategy. There are 3 different kinds of consignment patterns: For some heavier products (Ex. amplifiers) they have their own consignment patterns through sea and land transportation. Normal products (Ex. ice) are mainly delivered through sea and land transportation. As to some high-quality products, delivering through air freight is mainly used. Also, all the bulk parts delivered to distribution centers through air/sea freight are assembled locally. Further, to achieve the goal fastening the reaction of the Suzhou manufactory to the orders, Logitech invested a new plant in the Suzhou New District. Compare to the old one, it is bigger, and the arrangement of the product lines is more reasonable. The construction of the new plant is double-decked. Goods are produced in the upper side and stored in the under side. With this construction, raw materials can be delivered to the right place in a shortest distance. Furthermore, Logitech has used a hybrid manufacturing model to increase flexibility, with high-volume products manufactured using a traditional production line, and lower-volume products manufactured in a cell-line by a core team of specialized staff. Logitech also uses a just-in-time system for components, so approximately 60 percent of all components are delivered on a daily basis. To cooperate with this new system, Logitech applied for a Free Trade Zone in the Suzhou New District. The purpose is obviously to enable the suppliers to be closer their product lines. Logitech continues to add whole new categories to their product portfolio and to expand their sales channels, increasing their product demand. Their entire supply chain, from manufacturing in China to distribution in more than 100 countries worldwide, has provided Logitech with a significant competitive advantage. Chapter 3. Suppliers In the cooperation with suppliers, speed –up delivering lowers the pressure of storage. In Suzhou, the superior environmental factor increases the competitive advantage of Logitech largely. With the rapid expansion in the market, Logitech realized that managing the plans of each area centralizedly is getting important. In the past, the data of information and volume-delivery forecasting took long time to collect and couldn’t be updated immediately. Also, due to the seasonal fluctuation of market price, suppliers are hard to progress the forecasting works. However, under the new mechanism, managers of each area and sales teams monitored the actual sales situation together and progressed the forecasting work according to the feedback. The up-to-date forecast would be reported to global supply chain department and shared the data with suppliers. After receiving the forecast, central procurement department would place orders for all areas. By doing so, Logitech not only shared the latest data with suppliers but also benefit by the bulk purchasing. Furthermore, the on-line sharing movement with suppliers and ODM enabled Logitech’s partners to react from changes immediately. Nevertheless, sharing data by internet isn’t an innovation anymore. The key of success is building a â€Å"Sales and Operation Planning Procedure† and providing the visibility of data by cooperating with suppliers. There are many requirements asked within the contracts from Logitech to suppliers. For example, in most contracts it claims that â€Å"Sharing the obligation together†. When supply and demand changes, it is important to clear the obligation up. After improving this weakness, the formulation of supply and demand becomes 75% faster than before. The reflection to customers is also enhanced. In 2006, selling mice in supermarket is one of the developed trends. This movement was decided by consumer behavior. From the consumer behavior aspect, convenience and easy to reach become main reasons for consumers to purchase the IT products. Selling channels is diversified. Besides hypermarkets, Logitech set up direct stores to display and sell products. Chapter 4. Logistics strategy The OEM, Logitech mice and web cameras are produced in Suzhou, China and sold in U. S. Joy sticks are produced by ODM and sold in Europe. In NorthAmerica and Europe, Logitech set up regional logistics centers in Memphis and Amsterdam. Doing most of its manufacturing in China, Logitech uses a variety of solutions to handle its logistics needs. They serve customers worldwide in U. S. , Latin America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Oceania. Vision into its network comes from an Oracle system under which Logitech runs. For improving customers’ satisfaction further, Logitech has adopted Just-in-time system. The requirement of this ability is to rebuild the information system between Logitech and logistics companies in order to clear off the obstacles of the speed-up. However, adopting Just-in-time system didn’t sacrifice the profit. Presently, the turnover rate of the stocks yearly reaches 5-6 times, more than previous record 3 times. This achievement was reached from the optimization of the logistics link. First, Logitech evaluated its transportation system. Consider saving the cost, Logitech delivered its products from China across globe through sea transportation which ships merely start from Hong Kong. In the past, the shipping contracts between Logitech and shipping companies were signed as long-term corporations. From 2003 Logitech signed and negotiated its shipping contracts with regional shipping companies annually. Through the regularly negotiations, Logitech can assure its encasement cost in advance. When facing the fluctuation of global oil price, Logitech can still hold a stable transportation cost. Also, because that Logitech has huge amount of products need to be delivered across globe every year, they always can bargain and get most favorable price from logistics companies. Besides, Logitech delivered some parts to the sales areas in advance and put the last assembling work of some particular products, for example, web camera at the sales areas. These doings have enhanced the flexibility of the supply chain. Due to the improved efficiency of the transportation system, it is not necessary for Logitech to set up manufactories in some high-cost areas, like North America and Europe. Although having considered setting up manufactories in Mexico and Hungary because of the lower transportation cost, Logitech found considering from the aspect of total cost, the manufacturing cost in China is still half of those countries. From the chart below, a Logitech mouse is sold at $40 in U. S. 8% (20%) was taken by Logitech as corporate costs and profit. Global distributors and retailers take $15 (37. %), and, suppliers take $14 (35%). The rest $3 (7. 5%) is belong to China. This $3 includes salary, power, transportation, and management costs (JRJ. com 2008) A ELEMENTS OF THE VALUE CHAIN B COSTS IN VALUE CHAIN AB Assembly in China$3 Parts from suppliers for China$14 Corporate costs + profit$8 Global distributors and retailers$15 Total costs$40 Percentage of retail 100% In Tennnesse, America, Hungary, an d the Netherlands, Logitech has also owned warehousing business. In Hungary, Flextronics and DHL have been employed and taken charge of final assembling and managing warehouses. The agreements that Logitech and these logistics companies made have been re-signed through inviting tenders quarterly. Therefore, these logistics partners would provide the best service to keep this business relationship. However, the managers of warehousing business are assigned by Logitech. This method bases on two considerations: First, it costs too much to outsource logistics suppliers, like UPS or DHL to progress everything. Second, with its own professional experiences Logitech can also reduce the cost of total warehousing management. Further, Logitech sell products on-line by E-Commerce Catalogers and have an OEM channel as well (Logitech 2008). The underlying platform supporting Logitech’s channel and supply chain work is a forecasting solution from Click Commerce Inc. Their sales people do a bottom-up forecast, so Logitech can command the detail and holistic information. Among other benefits, channel forecasting allows Logitech to tie its sales demand to supply chain activities in order to shrink inventory (Technology 2003). In order to occupy Chinese market, Logitech has created more and more hannels gradually. In 2007, Zarva and Logitech built a cooperative relationship. Zarva became the whole authorized distributor in China. The content of the cooperation is simple. Logitech expects to spread, market and sell Logitech’s products through national distribution coverage. In the same time, Logitech’s original authorized distributors, like China Digi have superior channel coverages. Therefor e, other mouse manufacturers are hard to compete with Logitech in China (ciw. com 2007). Chapter 5. SWOT Analysis Logitech has just seen its 30th consecutive quarter of double digit growth. This growth, however, could be stunted by increasing competition from Microsoft, its biggest competitor in the mice and keyboards market. StrengthsWeaknesses Strong financial performance High returns Manufacturing capabilities Strong research and developmentDeclining operating margins Dependence on retail segment OpportunitiesThreats Non-PC platforms Growth of computer industry Emerging markets Growing Indian console marketsCompetition from Microsoft Low barrier for entry into core market Counterfeit goods Short product life cycles (More detail information is put in appendix. Chapter 6. Conclusion and recommendations Logitech manages a complicated supply chain with a expanding product lines. For them, here are some recommendations. 1. Make the supply chain more flexible; in order to assure it can expand with the increase of the product lines. In some cases, this would involve the balance between internal manufacturing and outsourcing. 2. Draw the base of the stock turnover period by comparing other companies who have same mode of operating business manufacture products at some particular areas and sell to the whole world. 3. Centralize the management of information forecasting and procurement to harvest from batch discount and simplify the purchasing procedure. By doing this better demand formulation and storage reinforcement plan could be formed. Also, it can diminish storage and reduce the ambiguous issue of responsibilities. 4. Go shares the responsibility with the suppliers; do NOT absorb all the logistics costs alone, as well as do NOT fall into the trap of long-term contracts. Long-term contract would hold you back on choosing lower-cost substitute projects. Shipping agreements should be negotiated every one year. 5. Although costs can be saved by product design and product package, product design should follow the collocation of the supply chain to enable them easier to be packaged and transported. This issue always ignored by most of the companies. 6. Keep updating the information system and evaluate it frequently. It would assure the IT system will not become the obstacle to grow. Chapter 7. References PriceGrabber. com 2007 LOGITECH NOISE CANCELING HEADPHONES [online], http://www. tweaknews. net/reviews/logitech_noise_canceling_headphones/ [Assessed in Apr. 09 2008] Logitech International SA 2008 [online] http://ir. ogitech. com/releasedetail. cfm? ReleaseID=174502 [Assessed in Apr. 09 2008] Datamonitor 2007 [online] http://web. ebscohost. com/ehost/pdf? vid=1=109=3a191d7a-7e0d-4d0b-ba85-2483ea127fc1%40sessionmgr104 [Assessed in APR. 09 2008] JRJ. com 2006 [online] http://finance. jrj. com/news/2006-12-05/000001829203. html [Assessed in Apr. 09 2008] Ciw. com 2007 [online] http://www. ciw. co m. cn/ciwepaper/qudao/20071105101319. shtml [Assessed in Apr. 09 2008] Technology 2003 [online] http://web. ebscohost. com/ehost/pdf? vid=1=108=6644df7a-bfd5-4115-858f-8582b47fc1e7%40sessionmgr109 [Assessed in Apr. 09 2008]

Change in Height on a Ramp essays

Change in Height on a Ramp essays Inquiry 3: Change in Height on a Ramp This experiment studied the effects of changing the height of a ramp on a wheeled cart. The first question one encounters with this experiment is how will the change in height effect the cart. Well it is obvious that the cart, as all objects on earth, have the force a gravity to deal with. If the cart was on a flat surface then the force of gravity would match the normal force, and the force of friction would match the forward force, and all the forces would combine and equal zero. However because the cart is on an 11.2? slope, the forces are not equal, this means that the cart is moving. The cart has the constant force of gravity pushing down on it, so the cart accelerates down the ramp. If velocity and time are graphed, then what will the graph look like? The graph will not be linear; an accelerating object does not have a constant speed. The graph will be some kind of a curve. But when comparing the different graphs it should be constant because gravity is constant. Thus, the i ndividual graphs will be curves while the graph of the averages of the trials should be linear. This is because the cart will consistently accelerate relative to the height it is dropped from To set up this experiment a board about 2.5 m in length was placed with one side on a chair and the other on the ground, this created an 11.2? between the ground and the board. Then a computer with a motion detector was brought next to the experiment. The motion detector was taped to the top of the board so that the sensor would shoot down parallel to the board. The cart was then placed at different heights and measured in distance vs. time, and velocity vs. time. The cart was dropped from 0.5 m, 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 1.75 m, and 2.0 m. This distance was measured from the tip of the board that was touching the ground up. To find the data the cart was released from the specified h ...

A'state of play' assessment of the investment climate in Bolivia Essay

A'state of play' assessment of the investment climate in Bolivia - Essay Example But it is unable to exploit these natural reserves due to political instability and anti-privatization sentiments. There is literacy rate of 87%. Chiquitania is located in the eastern parts of Bolivia and it is a peaceful place composed of a unique culture and history. Although modernization is taking place, its pace is slower than what it should be. Corruption and red tape is responsible for the slow growth. Bolivia is one of Latin America's poorest countries where education and health are below the regional average. The roads, water supply, and telecom services are of poor quality (Bolivia Microeconomic Constraints and Opportunities for Higher Growth, p6). Chiquitania has tremendous potential for the tourism industry. But it is bogged down due to frequent road stoppages and poor road system. Hitherto, political conditions and bureaucratic requirements have discouraged tourism from reaching its peak level. Of course, the government may not be keen to push tourism at the cost of environmental degradation. Nevertheless, the overall economic climate is not favorable to industry. Of the industries present in the market in a study in 2000, tourism is conspicuous by its absence. There is no mention of tourism anywhere. Or if it is there, it is in the informal sector. Officially, tourism is almost non-existent (See Fig.3). Foods and drinks take the first spot, followed by furniture. The Bolivians like to eat and drink. They also have fondness for furniture. However, the zeal to push tourism is nowhere in the scheme of things for them. The real problem lies in the nature of the market in Bolivia. The size of the formal market is significantly smaller than the informal market. The problems in formalizing business far outweigh the benefits. Formidable bureaucratic controls including corruption choke a layman's inclination to run a legitimate business. Information to run business on statutory guidelines is lost in the maze of bureaucratic controls. Also, the cost to run a legitimate business is high due to taxes and other expenses. The problem is not isolated to tourism alone. It is faced by every industry. This has given rise to tightly regulated market where much of what is manufactured is consumed by the department itself. There is little scope for exports. For instance, in La Paz 70% of the sales was consumed within the city in the year 2000. So also in the cases of Santa Cruz and Cochabamba it was 74% and 51% respectively. Poor transport infrastructure is the main cause for the lack of exports by the firms to other regions. Figure 1 First of all, lack of political stability does not allow for big time investments. Then there is the tight bureaucratic control over formally establishing and maintaining tourist spots. Macroeconomic stabilization, trade

Lucy vs. Zehmer Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Lucy vs. Zehmer - Essay Example The instrument the Lucys were seeking to enforce stated: â€Å"We hereby agree to sell to W.O. Lucy the Ferguson Farm complete for $50,000, title satisfactory to buyer.† It was written by A.H. Zehmer, and was duly signed by both A.H. and I.S. Zehmer. The defense of A.H. Zehmer was that he considered the offer of Lucy to purchase Ferguson as a joke, and at the time they signed the document both of the respondents were drunk. Zehmer also stated that while he did write the document, to him it was more of a response to a dare, as he did not believe that Lucy could afford $50,000, something he outrightly told the latter. In fact, although Zehmer wrote the contract, he did not deliver it, but Lucy picked it up, read it and put it in his pocket. At this point, Lucy offered $5 earnest money to seal the contract, but realizing he was serious, Zehmer refused to accept the money and instead told Lucy that had no intentions to sell Ferguson. On the other hand, Lucy contended that the sale was a done deal. He argued that at no time did he believe Zehmer to be joking. When Zehmer mentioned that Lucy would not be able to afford his price, Lucy assured him that he could. This was the reason Lucy immediately thereafter asked the help of his brother who agreed to share interests in the purchase. The lower court decided that Lucy had not proven his right to specific performance, and the case was dismissed. ... However, if the contract remains valid, then the Lucys are entitled to its specific performance. 3. The court's decision on those issues The Supreme Court of Virginia ruled that a valid contract had been created when the Zehmers set their signatures to the instrument, creating an obligation on either side to meet its terms as contained in the document. The claim of Zehmer that he was merely drunk, and at the same time only joking (i.e., did not really intend to sell), is not sufficient to invalidate the existing contract. The complainants are entitled to the specific performance of the contested contract. The decision of the lower court is therefore reversed, and the case is remanded. 4. The rationale the court used in reaching those decisions The Supreme Court decided that Zehmer’s contention that he did not really intend to offer his property for sale does not hold water. It is true that normally, the law of contracts requires that the parties to the contract mutually consen ted to it. However, given certain cases such as this one, it is not so important for the parties to mentally agree to the forming of the contract; what is important is that the acts and words of one of the parties convey the reasonable meaning of such intention to the other party, that is, that the parties appeared serious in their intent to transact (Patterson, p. 74). A binding contract of sale therefore existed between the two parties, whether or not the response of the Zehmers was serious or in jest, because one party (Lucy) made a serious offer, and took their response to be likewise a serious answer to his offer. â€Å"Intentions of the parties to a contract are determined by a reasonable interpretation of their manifest conduct and expression. Unexpressed

Important reforms and changes in American's History Essay

Important reforms and changes in American's History - Essay Example It was at this time that President Theodore Roosevelt commented that every man, despite his position, had the responsibility of promoting reforms. The progressive movement was established to tackle all the problems that plagued Americans. The aim was to improve the working conditions in industries such as wages, safety and hours of working. Moral issues were also addressed such as prostitution and alcohol abuse which the 18th century American society attributed to domestic violence (Ingui 79). The progressives’ ideas were to have better management systems in businesses, cities and political entities. Nonetheless, the progressives were not as aggressive when it came to addressing the civil rights of the minorities in America, such as Native Americans and slave trade. There were many reforms that occurred during the progressive era. These were reforms such as good working conditions, women’s suffrage, right to own land for the minority, prohibition and child labor among others. However, some of the most important reforms that took place during the Progressive era included child labor, nationalization of banks, consumer protection laws, the 18th and 19th amendment which led to women’s suffrage and prohibition. During the progressive era, being a worker was not easy. Though the progressives did all they could to solicit for good working conditions, they only obtained mixed results. In the early 18th and 19th century, male workers were paid pitiful amounts as their wages, while women did laundry and other duties that earned extra income to make ends meet. Women were lowly paid despite working for longer hours than men (Moon 26). Child laborers were common. It was not surprising to get boys as young as 10 years working in coal mines and girls as young as 12 years looking after children and other odd jobs that their parents would tell them to do. This changed to some extent when the

Effective Hand Washing Program Nursing Essay

Effective Hand Washing Program Nursing Essay Acute respiratory disease and intestinal tract infections are the primary causes of morbidity and mortality among young children (Vivas et al., 2008). Annually, more than 3-5 million children aged less than 5 years pass away from diarrhoea and acute lower respiratory-tract infection (WHO, 2005 cited in Luby et al., 2005). Moreover, WHO (2010) estimated that diarrhoea and respiratory infection are responsible for 35% of child deaths. The huge majority of child mortality occurs among the world poorest populations in low and middle-income countries. Vivas et al. (2008) reported that 62% and 31% of all deaths in Africa and Southeast Asia, respectively, are caused by infectious disease. In Indonesia, the largest cause of infant mortality and children less than five years mortality are diarrhoea and pneumonia (31.4 %, 23.8% and 25.2%, 15.5 %) (Ministry of Health of Republic of Indonesia, 2007). According to the results of basic health research (2007) by MoH of Indonesia, 26% cause of death in the countryside in the age group 5-14 years are diarrhoea and pneumonia. This indicates there must be a comprehensive treatment for age groups that are vulnerable to infectious diseases can be protected. Although everyone is susceptible to the transmission of disease, but children as future generations are one group that is at biggest risk (Hezel, Bartlett, Hileman, Dillon, Cessna, 2000 cited in Vessey, Sherwood, Warner, Clark, 2007). Children who are at school age are very vulnerable because infectious diseases most affect younger children (Vivas et al., 2008). At this age they will blend with the environment outside their home that does not allow parents to keep their attention. Behaviours of children such as do not want to lose time to play or toilet facilities are smelly and dirty increase the risk for infection. With their vulnerability, children will be very easily affected by diseases caused by infection. A previous study by Luby et al. (2005) reported that infectious diseases are common among school-age children are diarrhoea, acute lower respiratory infection and impetigo. As a result of this disease children of school age are not able to follow the lessons in school due to absences. Absenteeism is a chief problem among school-aged children, with approximately 75% of all school absences endorsed to illness. Illness-related absences have been shown to escort to both negative educational and economic outcomes (Lau et al., 2010). Moreover, community-acquired infections are a major reason for absenteeism among elementary school students mentioned by Dyer, Shinder, Shinder, 2000; Hammond, Ali, Fendler, Dolan, Donovan, 2000; McGuckin, Ali, 2002 cited in Vessey et al., 2007). Absenteeism due to infectious diseases will usually increase during the winter (Adams, Hendershot, Marano, 1999 cited in Vessey et al., 2007). Moreover, Afroza (2007) argued that washing hands with soap right to r educe the risk of diarrhoea, avian influenza, pneumonia and other diseases. Base on the stages of development according to Erikson (1968), school-age children referred to as the apprenticeship of live. This stage is the period of learning and mastering more basic skills models (Erikson, 1968) so it is appropriate to introduce to them about how to avoid infectious diseases. Children are more interested to learning and are very possible to adopt healthy behaviours at a younger age. Due to school children is the symbolism of the unification of all components of the family and society (Yuhanna, 2010), they can also being agents of adjust by spreading what they have learned in school to their family and community members (Vivas et al., 2008). From the above description then hand washing program in school-age children are very precise and strategic. If hand washing is taught from the beginning then certainly hand washing will become a habit until the end of their lives. Hand washing is very important technique was introduced to the school-age children. To get the best health benefit out of it, it is very important to consider the proper ways of washing hands with soap and running water (if possible). Several previous studies conducted in Indonesia found that although most of the people know about the importance of washing hands with soap but very few people (5%) know how to do it properly (Afroza, 2007). Hand washing with soap has been ranked the most cost-effective intervention for control of disease in the worldwide (Judah et al., 2009). A study conducted by Lau et al. (2010) found that hand washing interventions have been significantly reduce illness-related absences in elementary school students and significantly reduce a subset of illness-related absences (i.e. gastrointestinal illnesses). Hand washing is very effective programs conducted in schools. As a community, the school consists of various elements in them such as teachers, parents, students and the community around the school. Certainly the role of the other party is very important and needed. Then to involve other parties such as teachers, parents, community or society, strategic activities that possible to be implemented are community empowerment and health promotion (MoH of Indonesia, 2010). Furthermore, UNICEF (2006) stated that in order to create effective relationships need to do the communication and collaboration between schools, families and community. The affiliation of positive attitudes toward hand washing and the programs effectiveness in imparting knowledge helped to create a sustained social norm of hand washing among many children in disparate locations (Rosen, Zucker, Brody, Engelhard, Manor, 2009). Furthermore, to discuss many more in detail, the phenomena above will be describe into several topics such as definition, summarise and analyze, critically analyze opinion, and synthesize of phenomena into thesis plan. Definition In accordance with the phenomenon found in my interest area then the next explain about the appropriate definitions as follows: Hand washing Hand washing is washing hands with plain or antimicrobial soap and water (WHO, 2009). Hand washing is cleansing the hands of any dirt, starting from fingertip to elbow and arm in a certain way as needed (Subroto, 1987 cited in Yuhanna, 2010). Another definition by Potter (2005 cited in Yuhanna, 2010) hand washing is the rub with soap in with the whole hand skin surface with a strong and compact which is then rinsed under running water. Related to the definition above, in my opinion the definition of hand washing is practice of washing hands with soap by elementary school students in grade 1st 3rd . Elementary school According to Ministry of Education of Indonesia (2010) elementary school is a form of formal education unit conducting public education on basic education. Primary education aims to build a foundation for the growth potential of learners to become a human being: a healthy, independent, and confident. Public school or other equivalent form consisting above 6 (six) levels of classes, namely grade 1 (one), grade 2 (two), grade 3 (three), grade 4 (four), grade 5 (five), and grade 6 (six). As far as my knowledge, elementary school is operationally defined as the place where students 1st 3rd grades doing hand washing activities. Effective According to businessdictionary.com effective is the degree to which objectives are achieved and the extent to which targeted problems are solved. Effectiveness is determined without reference to cost and, whereas effectiveness means doing the right thing. Moreover in dictionaryreference.com effective is adequate to accomplish a purpose; producing the intended or expected result: effective teaching methods. Based on the definition before, for this phenomenon effective is how grade 1st 3rd elementary school students to wash hands in accordance with quality of hand washing. Program According to oxfortdictionary.com definition of program is a planned series of future events or performances. The synonym of program is a set of related measures or activities with a particular long-term aim. Moreover in Cambridge dictionaries online program defined as a plan of activities to be done or things to be achieved. Program is operationally defined as a series of hand-washing activities made à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹by the community school for students grade 1st 3rd. Summarise and analyze Based on previous studies obtained, further in this paper will describe summarise and analyze six components, namely definition, objective, conceptual framework, research design, samples, main result and limitation. Objective The purpose of this study was to identify, describe, explain, or predict the solution to a situation or a phenomenon that occurs (Hamid, 2007). As the best of my literacy, all research studies have clearly set goals. Based on 28 studies were found, the purpose of the studies can be divided into six categories. First, it aims to determine hand washing practice behaviour (Quintero, Freeman, Neumark, 2009; Drankiewich Dundes, 2003; Larson, Aiello, Cimiotti, 2004; Aslan et al., 2006; Larson Lusk, 2006; Yuhanna, 2010; Arfianti, 2010). In general the researchers would like to know about the implementation of hand washing compliance in various settings such as health care setting and in education setting. A study conducted by Quintero et al. (2009) further explains that by knowing about the hand washing behaviour will be able to identify bottlenecks in the implementation of proper hand washing practises. Meanwhile, Yuhanna (2010) connects the hand washing behaviour with parenting parent s. Second, it aims to assess affect of hand washing (Luby et al., 2005; Nandrup-Bus, 2011; Thumma, Aiello, Foxman, 2009). Study conducted by Luby et al. (2005) dan Thumma et al. (2009) associate hand washing with incidence of acute respiratory infection, impetigo and diarrhoea. While, Nandrup-Bus (2011) study associate hand washing with actual absenteeism because of infectious illness. Third, the objective is to determine hand washing barriers (Ramos, Schrader, Trujillo, Blea, Greenberg, 2010). To the best of my knowledge, there are three major barriers in hand washing practice such as facilities, supplies and supports. Specifically, Ramos et al. (2010) conduct studies about supplies barrier such as: soap and paper towel/hand dryer. Fourth, to get an idea of application of various handwashing product (Fuller et al., 2011; Morton Schultz, 2004). Fuller et al. (2011) and Morton Schultz (2004) each using a technique gloving and washing hand by alcohol gel. Based on guidelines on hand hygiene in health care by WHO (2009) to determine an effective hand washing products for hand hygiene should be carried out laboratory tests. Meanwhile, the two studies above are not in actual laboratory tests. Fuller et al. (2011) only to find whether hand hygiene compliance differed when gloves were worn and Morton Schultz (2004) linking the use of alcohol gel with reducing absenteeism secondary to infectious illness. Fifth, to evaluate knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of hand washing in community through the provision of education and promotion (Vivas et al., 2008; Lau et al., 2010; Sjoberg Eriksson, 2010; Rosen et al., 2009; Nandrup-Bus, 2010, Tousman et al., 2007; Zain, 2010). According to WHO (2009) area of à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹education and promotion is very appropriate to be applied in both developed and developing countries. Especially in the developing countries, conduct cost-benefit, cost utility and cost-effectiveness very useful for improving hand hygiene. In line with Curtis et al. (2001) education or promotion program can change behavior and to be effective if built on local research, use locally appropriate channels of communication repeatedly and for an extended time. This is consistent with studies conducted by Lau et al. (2010) and Tousman et al. (2007), each of which carry education and promotion by given repetitive instruction and multiple week learner centered . Finally, it aims to evaluate effectiveness of hand washing (Curtis et al., 2001; Judah et al., 2009; Park, Cheong, Son, Ha, 2010; Asiedu, Van-Ess, Papoe, Asiedu, Anderson, 2011; Dunn, Palombo, Salamone, 2002; Vessey et al., 2007; Guinan, McGuckin, Ali, 2002; Snow, White, Kim, 2008). Based on the best of my literacy, effectiveness of hand washing related to quality of hand washing. Larson Lusk (1985) stated that quality of hand washing consist of five variables such as appropriateness, frequency, agent use, duration and technique. This statement are consistent with previous studies that conducted by Curtis et al., 2001; Judah et al., 2009; Park et al., 2010; Asiedu et al., 2011; Snow et al.,2008. On the other hand, reported that hand washing effective if able to reducing and subsequent absenteeism and no difference between different hand washing facilities (free wash hand basins and manual tap operated basins) in reducing microbial flora of hands (Dunn et al., 2002; Vessey et al ., 2007; Guinan et al., 2002). Conceptual framework From 28 research articles, several theoretical frameworks have been used, explicitly or implicitly, by the reviewed studies as the basis of intervention design and implementation. Although most articles failed to give a clear description of the theoretical framework behind the intervention design, based on the description of program procedure, I have identified the use of the following theoretical approaches: health belief model (Park et al., 2010; Morton Schultz, 2004), behavioural change theory (Tousman et al., 2007) and Precede Proceed model (Zain, 2010; Yuhanna, 2010). The Health Belief Model (HBM) is a psychological models that effort to explain and predict health behaviors focusing on the attitudes and beliefs of individuals (University of Twente, n.d.). Otherwise, Remocker Shea (2011) highlighted that HBM attempts to explain the thought process behind individuals decisions related to health behaviour change and maintenance. This model suggests that individuals determine the feasibility, benefits and costs related to an intervention or behaviour change based on the following constructs: perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, cues to action, and self-efficacy. Park et al. (2010) used HBM to examine the perception, motivating factors, and behaviour related with the use of hand washing to prevent H1N1 influenza transmission. On the other hand, Morton Schultz (2004) used HBM to understand hand washing knowledge and behaviours in the school setting and how the children practice this behaviour both insid e and outside the school environment. In these previous studies the use of HBM is appropriate because useful in understanding that perceived susceptibility to illness due to improper hand washing behaviours is necessary before commitment to changing or adopting the hand washing behaviour can occur. Tousman et al. (2007) used a model of health behavior change developed by Tousman Zeitz (2003). According to this model, behavior change is a function of factors related to the participants involved in the intervention, the structure of the intervention, and the techniques used in the intervention (Tousman et al., 2007). The participants factor refers to characteristics of the individual attempting to change behavior represented by 2nd grade students because they have a semantic knowledge base that allow them to accurately understand simple infectious disease principles. The structure of the intervention used four week 30 minute sessions. In this study, four types of learner-centered teaching techniques were used those are learner-centered interactive discussions, skill training, students perform activities and self monitoring homework assignment. The Precede-Proceed model describes factors influencing health outcomes and provides a comprehensive structure for health needs assessment, program design, implementation, and evaluation of health promotion programs (Hu, Wallace, Tesh, 2010). This model posits that predisposing, reinforcing, and enabling factors have an effect on behaviour and the environment (Huang Goran, 2003). The Precede-Proceed model consist of two phases, firstly is Precede phase and secondly Proceed phase. The Precede phase include social, epidemiological, behavioural and environmental, education, ecological, administrative and policy assessment (Hu et al., 2010), continuing by Proceed phase to the implementation and evaluation of the intervention (Huang Goran, 2003). Yuhanna (2010) find patterns of parenting as a reinforcing factors influencing hand washing behaviour in school-age children. Whereas, Zain (2010) identified predisposing factors which is education related to hand washing behaviour in school-a ge children. Zain (2010) stated that health education with lecture method, demonstrations and leaflets can affect hand washing behavior in school-age children. Both studies by Yuhanna (2010) and Zain (2010) only implement Precede phase, this may raise the question whether they can be specified using Precede Proceed model or not. A theoretical framework is essential at the beginning of a study to underpin research question and select variables as the end of a study to interpret the outcome (Kitrungrote Cohen, 2006). Furthermore, Bordage (2009) stated that conceptual frameworks help to understand problems or phenomenas that happen. Different conceptual frameworks emphasise different aspects of the problem or elements of the solution (Bordage, 2009). Thus, it can be concluded that the conceptual framework is essential. Researchers must determine the conceptual framework that will be use as a basis for research to be conducted. Research design According to Burns Grove (1993) cited in Hamid (2007) quantitative research is used to describe variables, examine the relationship between variables, and determine cause and effect interactions between variables. Each type of study design has advantages and disadvantages. Sastroasmoro Ismael (2008) states that the best design is to answer the research question accurately, effectively and efficiently. From 28 research studies, 25 studies used a quantitative study design and 3 used a mixed quantitative-qualitative design (Asiedu et al., 2011; Vessey et al., 2007; Tousman et al., 2007). None of the studies used a purely qualitative design. Among of studies that used quantitative study design, 2 studies used descriptive approach (Larson Lusk, 2006; Thumma et al., 2009), 13 studies used experimental approach (Luby et al., 2005; Dunn et al., 2002; Lau et al., 2010; Guinan et al., 2002; Sjoberg Eriksson, 2010; Nandrup-Bus, 2011; Rosen et al., 2009; Nandrup-Bus, 2010; Aslan et al., 2006 ; Ramos et al., 2010; Snow et al., 2008; Morton Schultz, 2004; Zain, 2010) and 10 studies used observational approach (Curtis et al., 2001; Fuller et al., 2011; Judah et al., 2009; Drankiewich Dundes, 2003; Larson et al., 2004; Vivas et al., 2008; Park et al., 2010; Quintero et al., 2009; Yuhanna, 2010; Arfianti, 2010). Among of 10 studies that used observational approach divided into 5 studies by cross sectional and 5 studies by longitudinal time dimension. Thirteen studies (46%) of the 28 studies used experimental design and 10 studies (36%) used observational design. This can be explained that in order to find the strongest causal relationship is to use an experimental study. While observational studies have the capacity of a causal relationship is weaker, but more widely used because it is relatively inexpensive and simple (Sastroasmoro Ismael, 2008). Sample To the best of my knowledge, sample related to subject, sample size, places of setting, and instruments that used to collect data. According to 28 studies reported that there are three categories of subject such as community, students in several setting and health care providers. Most of the subject in previous studies are students (Vivas et al., 2008; Asiedu et al., 2011; Vessey et al., 2007; Quintero et al., 2009; Lau et al., 2010; Guinan et al., 2002; Morton Schultz, 2004; Nandrup-Bus, 2011; Nandrup-Bus, 2010; Tousman et al., 2007; Snow et al., 2008; Ramos et al., 2010; Yuhanna, 2010; Zain, 2010; Park et al., 2010; Drankiewich Dundes, 2003; Thumma et al., 2009; Aslan et al., 2006; Rosen et al., 2009) followed by health care providers (Fuller et al, 2011; Sjoberg Eriksson, 2010; Larson Lusk, 2006; Arfianti, 2010; Larson et al., 2004) and community (Curtis et al., 2001; Judah et al., 2009; Luby et al., 2005; Dunn et al., 2002). The selection of the student as a subject most clos ely related to two things: the school age group is susceptible to diseases caused by infection (Hezel et al., 2000 cited in Vessey et al., 2007; Vivas et al., 2008) and characteristics of development phase of school age (Yuhanna, 2010). School-age children is the great imitator, they would learn to behave as the behavior of those around them. So that when children are taught from childhood to live clean and healthy behaviors, such as washing hands before and after feeding, they will be familiar and accept become habits (Yuhanna, 2010). School children are the symbolism of the union of all components of the family and community. So in this case school-age children can serve as agents of change for healthy behavior (Yuhanna, 2010). The sample sizes of students range from 57 (Zain, 2010) to 2042 (Quintero et al., 2009). The sample sizes of health care providers range from 54 (Sjoberg Ericksson, 2010) to 131 (Larson Lusk, 2006). The sample sizes of community range from 32 (Dunn et al., 2002) to 198,000 (Judah et al., 2009). Dunn et al. (2002) used 32 premises become samples divided into 13 premises with manual hand basins and 19 premises with hand free basins to investigate the effectiveness of hands free wash hand basins and manual tap operated basins in reducing microbial flora on food handlers hands. Related to the place of setting, school is the current setting that reported used followed by practise setting and community setting. At school setting consist of several specific setting. First in preschool (Rosen et al., 2009), second in elementary school (Vivas et al., 2008; Asiedu et al., 2011; Vessey et al., 2007; Quintero et al., 2009; Lau et al., 2010; Guinan et al., 2002; Morton Schultz, 2004; Nandrup-Bus, 2011; Nandrup-Bus, 2010; Tousman et al., 2007; Snow et al., 2008; Ramos et al., 2010; Yuhanna, 2010; Zain, 2010), third in secondary school (Aslan et al., 2006) and fourth in college (Park et al., 2010; Drankiewich Dundes, 2003; Thumma et al., 2009). At practice setting used wards in the hospital both inpatient and outpatient care unit (Fuller et al, 2011; Sjoberg Eriksson, 2010; Larson Lusk, 2006; Arfianti, 2010; Larson et al., 2004). At community setting used household, premises and natural setting (Curtis et al., 2001; Judah et al., 2009; Luby et al., 2005; Dunn et a l., 2002). From 28 research articles, several instruments have been used, explicitly or implicitly, single or combination used such as structure observation check list, questionnaire, wireless devices, several hand washing promotion, reviewing document, self report and combine of two or three instruments. Structure observation check list is the most widely used instrument (Curtis et al., 2001; Fuller et al., 2011; Dunn et al., 2002; Drankiewich Dundes, 2003; Aslan et al., 2006; Ramos et al., 2010; Snow et al., 2008). Followed by questionnaire instrument that used within 6 studies (Vivas et al., 2008; Park et al., 2010; Quintero et al., 2009; Sjoberg Eriksson, 2010; Larson Lusk, 2006; Yuhanna, 2010). Four studies from Lau et al. (2010); Guinan et al. (2002); Nandrup-Bus. (2010); Morton Schultz (2004) used reviewing document as instrument. Otherwise, several hand washing promotion instrument used by Luby et al. (2005); Rosen et al. (2009); Zain (2010). Furthermore, studies from Judah et al. ( 2009); Thumma et al. (2009); respectively, used wireless devices and self report as the instrument. Another four studies used more than one instruments. Asiedu et al. (2011) used combination between questionnaire and structure observation check list, Vessey et al. (2007) mixed between several hand washing promotion and reviewing document, Larson et al. (2004) combined between structure observation check list and self reported: diary, Nandrup-Bus (2011) used questionnaire and reviewing document and Tousman et al. (2007) mixed multiple instruments such as training devices, handout, reviewing document and structure observation check list. As opposite, studies conducted by Arfianti (2010) did not mention what type of instrument used. As additional, all studies have explained about the ethical consideration. It is very important because the main objective of the ethics of research is to provide optimum protection to the subject of research (Sastroasmoro Ismael, 2008). Main result With regard to documenting outcome measure, in all 28 studies reported several outcomes measure, respectively, hand washing compliance, absenteeism rate, hand washing frequency, illness symptom, soap usage, glove usage, number of colonies, presence of hand washing supplies, hand washing disinfectant consumption and some of the studies used more than one type of outcome measure. Not only outcome measure, but also variables identified from all 28 studies. Eight studies used hand washing compliance for outcome measure (Vivas et al., 2008; Quintero et al., 2009; Drankiewich Dundee, 2003; Larson et al., 2004; Larson Lusk, 2006; Yuhanna, 2010; Arfianti, 2010; Zain, 2010). Seven studies used absenteeism rate as outcome measure (Vessey et al., 2007; Lau et al., 2010; Guinan et al., 2002; Nandrup-Bus, 2011; Nandrup-Bus, 2010; Tousman et al., 2007; Morton Schultz, 2004). Each of these two studies used soap usage (Curtis et al., 2001; Judah et al., 2009), hand washing frequency (Park et al., 2010; Snow et al., 2008), and illness symptom (Luby et al., 2005; Thumma et al., 2009). Each one a study that used glove usage (Fuller et al., 2011), number of colony (Dunn et al., 2002), presence of hand washing supplies (Ramos et al., 2010) and hand disinfectant consumption (Sjoberg Eriksson, 2010). Some of the studies used more than one type of outcome measure. Asiedu et al. (2011) mixed hand washing practice and presence of hand washing facilities and supplies become outcome measure. In other hand, Rosen et al. (2009) combined belief, attitude, knowledge and self efficacy of preschool educator as outcome measure and Aslan et al. (2006) used level of knowledge and hand washing practice become outcome measure. According to 28 studies reported several variables that influenced hand washing treatment, respectively demography variable included age, education level, social norms and social status, quality of hand washing variable, impact of improper hand washing, insufficient of hand washing facilities or inadequate hand washing supplies, social support or social relationship and hand washing barriers. In eight intervention studies (Luby et al., 2005; Vessey et al., 2007; Lau et al., 2010; Guinan et al., 2002; Nandrup-Bus, 2011; Nandrup-Bus, 2010; Ramos et al., 2010; Morton Schultz, 2004), the study group was divided into one experimental and one control group. Rosen et al., (2009) and Aslan et al., (2006) have a one group experimental. Two studies (Sjoberg Eriksson, 2010; Zain, 2010) used pre test and post test questionnaires, whereas Snow et al., (2008) used one control group, two intervention group and post intervention questionnaires. As the best of my literacy, there are both consistency finding and inconsistency finding highlight among 28 studies. According to variable demography, namely gender reported consistent that female were more likely to practice more frequent hand washing (Park et al., 2010; Thumma et al., 2009). Otherwise, Lau et al. (2010); Guinan et al. (2002); Nandrup-Bus, (2011); Nandrup-Bus, (2010); Tousman et al. (2007); Morton Schultz, (2004) explained that intervention group has fewer episodes of sickness absence and fewer sickness day than control group. Its become inconsistency finding because as opposite Vessey et al. (2007) state that no significant differences were noted between the groups, indicating that the number of student absence was not appreciably affected by the hand cleansing technique used. Based on the important inconsistency finding of this study suggesting implication for further studies in order that focus on absenteeism rate affect by hand washing action. Limitation From 28 research articles, several limitations have been founded, explicitly or implicitly, single or multiple limitations. Several single limitations have to consider when interpreting the studies. First, limitation in approach system used (Curtis et al., 2001; Judah et al., 2009; Park et al., 2010; Vessey et al., 2007; Drankiewich Dundes, 2003; Larson et al., 2004). Curtis et al. (2001) stated that structured observation has limitation as a method of collecting data about human behaviour. Second, sample size and homogenous sample (Dunn et al., 2002; Sjoberg Eriksson, 2010; Yuhanna, 2010; Zain, 2010). Dunn et al. (2002) informed that small number of manual wash hand basins available for the project become limitation of the study. Third, Quintero et al. (2009) explained that instrument, namely questionnaire has any bias toward over reporting of proper behaviors. Fourth, out come variable from the studies (Larson Lusk, 2006; Morton Schultz, 2004). Morton Schultz (2004) stated tha t the outcome variable, absenteeism related to infectious illness could be perceived as bias in measurement because the school nurse served as data collector for the study. Fifth, 8 researchers were not clearly describe limitation in their studies (Luby et al., 2005; Asiedu et al., 2011; Nandrup-Bus, 2011; Rosen et al., 2009; Nandrup-Bus, 2010; Aslan et al., 2006; Snow et al., 2008; Thumma et al., 2009). In other hand, 7 researchers stated that in their studies have more than one limitation (Vivas et al., 2008; Fuller et al., 2011; Lau et al., 2010; Guinan et al., 2002; Tousman et al., 2007; Ramos et al., 2010; Arfianti, 2010). Vivas et al. (2008) stated that in their study there are several limitations toward to approach system, sample, and study design. Whereas, Arfianti (2010) explained that there are two limitations, namely sample and instrument in her study. Only five studies that explain the conceptual framework used (Park et al., 2010; Morton Schultz, 2004; Tousman et al, 2007; Yuhanna, 2010; Zain, 2010), whereas 23 researchers did not explain the conceptual framework that used as the basis on their studies. Critically analyze Based on the summary above, it will further be explained more specifically that gaps are found. The discussion will be divided into three sections: gap in knowledge and gap in conceptual framework. Gap in knowledge To the best of my knowledge, gap in knowledge found among others in objective and outcome variable. On the objective, all interventions have been prepared previously by the researchers. In this case, participants implement something planned by the researchers. Similarly, when the studies conducted in community setting (Curtis et al., 2001; Judah et al., 2009; Luby et al., 2005; Dunn et al., 2002). Curtis et al. (2001) evaluated whether the governments program of effective to behaviour change. Otherwise, Judah et al. (2009) determine effectiveness at increasing hand washing with soap in a natural setting. Moreover, Luby et al. (2005) assess the effect of hand washing promotion with soap on the incidence of acute respiratory infection, impetigo, and diarrhoea. Thus, all done by researchers have developed previously without the involvement of community to decide for themselves what they need. Fallen Dwi (2010) expressed how important and strategic working together with the community

Barn Burning Essay -- essays papers

Barn Burning â€Å"Barn Burning† by William Faulkner was written in the ebb of the 1930’s in a decade of social, economic, and cultural decline. This story offers insight into the past years for students to learn of the nation and the South. This story shows the racial segregation that took place in these times between the white landowners and white tenant farmers, the blacks and the whites, and the poor white trash class and the blacks. The Snopes’s family was in the social class of the poor, white tenant farmers. The father, Abner Snopes, had to struggle to provide for his family. In the family there were the mother and her sister, two daughters, and two sons. The older son, Flem, worked with Abner, and the younger son, Sarty, helped with the chores. Sarty, along with others, had trouble understanding his father’s way of life and his attitude towards society. Abner was a harsh man. His crusade as a sharecropper exploited his inner feelings of resentment towards the landowners. Having little or no patience with each new situation, he resorted to the only ...

Evolution Alongside Creationism School

Engwr300 Online Essay #2 10/21/2012 Evolution alongside Creationism School In the essay â€Å"Why Evolution should be taught in public school† by Laura Kahn. According to Kahn, we need to educate the next generation of scientists on understanding how microbes develop and change to give them the tools to develop treatment against antibiotic resistant bacteria emerging viruses, and other deadly microbes. As she learned from her time in medicine, she recognizes the necessity of learning evolution to develop treatments in this rapid microbial environment.Unfortunately, certain aspects of society insist that religious doctrine be taught instead of evolution. According to a 2005 Harris poll, a majority of U. S citizens believe in creationism. Another survey show that two-thirds of U. S citizen believe creationism should be taught alongside evolution. Mrs. Kahn believed if we fail to teach science in public schools we would become scientifically illiterate. Therefore, we need to rema in vigilant that our children receive a good science education to further enhance human understanding, and a good science education includes learning about evolution.In the nineteenth century, during the â€Å"Spontaneous generation† scientists and physicians were unprepared in developing strategies against infectious killing diseases. Until French chemist Louis Pasteur convince the world that invisible microbes caused disease, which disprove and replace the spontaneous generation with the germ theory of disease Pasteur theory, suggested that life could develop from nonliving organic matter.Pasteur study fermentation and spontaneous generation in 1859, he discovered a link between microbes, fermentation, and putrefaction, and diseases, however, convincing the scientist and medical profession to accept the idea was a challenge. Kahn example of â€Å"spontaneous generation shows what could happen if children are not educated about evolution, future generation wouldn’t b e able to understand little details about germs and how they work. Further Laura H. Kahn shows the difference between creationism and evolution.She says that creationism is the belief that God created the heavens and the earth, and all living beings. Charles Darwin’s â€Å"theory of evolution† is controversy of creationism because it undermines religious doctrine. Proponents of creationism say that it is a scientific theory. They state that creationism is an alternative scientific theory to evolution. People who believe in creationism can’t prove existence of God and not even people who believe in evolution can prove that there’s no God.The first public disputation on creationism versus evolution was in1860 between Thomas Huxley and Bishop Samuel Wilberforce. In 1925, Tennessee passed the Butler Act that interdicted to teach evolution in public schools. The ACLU chose to protect any teacher who violated the act. There was one teacher named John Scopes, he discussed evolution with his biology class at the Rhea County High School. He was sued for it and was convicted and fined for a hundred dollars. But in 1927, John Scopes was justified and also Tennessee abolished the Butler Act.Germ theory of disease helps us to understand the causes of infectious disease and evolution helps us to understand the development of antimicrobial stability. Kahn thinks that â€Å"we need to remain vigilant that our children receive a good science education to further enhance human understanding. And a good science education includes learning about evolution. † Concurrently with the time of Pasteur, the director of the Museum of Natural History, Felix-Archimede Pouchet claimed he had product spontaneous generation, but Pasteur work on fermentation conceived him otherwise.So, he decided to disprove Pouchet’s claim with his experiment to show that different concentrations of microbes existed depending on the location and elevation. Pouchet tri ed duplicating Pasteur’s result but failed, so Pasteur demanded that the experiment be repeated by a commission appointed by the Academy of Science and that the experiment be conducted in a laboratory in the museum of Natural History. After the experiment, the academy later issued an official announcement that Pasteur had successfully disproved spontaneous generation. Yet, spontaneous generation proponents in other countries still attack his findings.Until, German physician Robert Koch proved that bacterial is the causes of a number of infectious diseases finally putting spontaneous generation to rest. For the longest time in history, people understood the nature of epidemics and to develop effective preventive and control strategies against infectious diseases. Kahn also agrees creationism verse evolution. â€Å"Creationism† is the belief that a deity created the heavens, earth, and all its living creatures. Although, many civilizations have creation stories rooted in religious belief. Unlike spontaneous generation that is based on observation.Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution was develop after collecting extensive data while on a five year, round the world journey aboard; Pasteur disproved spontaneous generation based on scientific theory on observation. Proponents of creationism propose creationism is an alternative scientific to evolution, yet they don’t provide scientific evidence for the existence of an intelligent deity. Instead they cite gaps in evolutionary theory. She asks the question, how would someone prove by observation and experimentation the existence of a deity or how would someone disprove evolution?She explained there’s extensive evidence in the fossil record in genetic code, and in rapidly evolving microbes, and experimental results of thousands of years of human genetic manipulation through selective breeding of domesticated plants and animals. Kahn makes a very valid point in defense of evolution, sh e writes a well put together argument, and she supports the evidence for the existence of evolution, but expects the same from the creationists. Kahn enables readers to think clearly about the effectiveness of creationism and evolution.However, acquiring the permission to teach evolution remains a problematic issue since teaching evolution is prohibited as it is against the beliefs of many people. Which I don’t understand, I believe it show be up to the teacher to decide when lecturing about creationism because evolution can easier be link with creationism in school for a better understand with the children and they could think about new information for themselves whether he or she agree or disagree, but I think completely avoiding the topic can be harmful in the future for health reasons.Finally, Kahn’s main point I believe is to inform the readers about the evolutionary education, and not to eliminate creationism from school, her goal is to ensure that evolution be c onsidered important as it will direct our future generation. Just how Pasteur and Darwin, she hopes someone will do same for evolution. Kahn provides valid facts with actual evidences to help guide her readers in learning the importance of teaching evolution in public schools.

Animal dreams by Barbara Kingsolver

Animal dreams by Barbara Kingsolver She is dead. She does not appear physically but haunts mentally. She is Codi and Hallie's mother Alice, the late wife ofHomero Noline. Throughout the novel Animal Dreams by Barbara Kingsolver Alice impacted the characters, action,and theme(s).When Alice passed away she took part of Homer with her. What she left was a misfit of time and circumstance;an emotionally distraught and distant man who attempted to resemble a father but veered more towards the tin man.Homero existed beyond his wife as only a page out of an instruction manual, the one with the caution statement.Homero's delicate heart decided that the only way to endure Alice's death was to flush any remembrance orresemblance of her out of his fortified technical realm which throughout the novel becomes increasingly skewed.Kingsolver pushes home this idea by omitting Alice from any of Homer's frequent flashbacks which are usually mishapsfrom the past involving his daughters.HomeroThese incidents are his only recollection of hi s daughters' estranged childhood inwhich he strained to create slippery and unmothered women.Homer's fear of becoming attached to anything which reminded him of Alice resulted in an unorthodox childhoodfor Hallie and Codi. Homero was more of a child mechanic than a father. Retaining only his technical aptitude afterAlice died all he could do was provide his kids with orthopedic shoes and the correct medicine. When not fixing Codior Hallie's present or future ailments Homero took photographs of natural objects and slyly transformed them into man-made devices by doing what he seemed to be best at, distorting images.Codi, similar to her father mentally blocked out her past. Her childhood remained within her as only a series ofstained and misplaced memories. Codi attempted to follow in her father's emulsion lined...

Exploratory Research essays

Exploratory Research essays Exploratory research can be used when forming a hypothesis or simply observing trends. It is not scientifically performed and often relies on secondary data. No hard-and-fast conclusions can be drawn from it (Ontario Holstery Institute). In addition to marketing and sales, descriptive research is useful to human resources in determining what types of job candidates are available. Also purchasing can use descriptive data to determine whether they are getting the best value for the companys money. Finally, auditors can use descriptive research to determine if some areas of a business are under more pressure, subject to more turnover, or have other internal weaknesses that would help in designing the audit procedures. Longitudinal studies take place over time. It is important to consider the cost of such a study, which is usually high. Also, the researchers must consider the likelihood of finding people willing to participate in a study over time (King). Furthermore, the researchers must consider whether the change in individuals over time is important. If the size of a group is expected to stay the same, and only the individual members will change, it is possible that a longitudinal study will be a waste of time. Some decisions can be made on the basis of a cross-sectional study. If events only happen once, such as a reaction to a commercial, then collecting the data only once makes sense. Similarly, data that is unlikely to change quickly, such as peoples reaction to certain foods can be effectively measured in a cross-sectional study. Decisions that rely on the change in people over time, however, should only be made on the basis of a cross-sectional study if a longitudinal study is unprofitable and a retrospective study is not available (Johnson). Many outside factors can affect the decisions of people in the short-term. For example, the inclusion of macaroni and cheese on an individua ...

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

Debating Public Policy - Essay Example However, the role of such organizations has been largely unnoticed since they fund advocacy groups (Weissert, Knott, 1995, Pp. 275). The policy process can play a significant role in safeguarding minority rights which involve protection of basic human rights such as freedom of speech and expression, freedom to choose and follow religion of choice and beliefs, freedom of seeking equal protection under the law, and the liberty to participate with equal strength and vigor in the public life of the society. The protection of rights of minorities is essential to the governments and policy makers to enable them to substantiate the cultural identity of the minorities as well as their social practices and traditions. The minorities may involve people belonging to ethnic backgrounds, following different religious beliefs and customs, as well as those who are geographically located in areas where their community is less in number, and differentiated on the basis of their income. Such groups are encouraged to participate in the policy making process to facilitate smoother functioning of governmental organizations and to mai ntain national and political integrity (America.gov, 2008). The prime objective of any public decision process revolves around protection of their individual as well as collective rights through promoting welfare of their society. The choice of an appropriate and suitable public policy is the key to bringing about the desired reforms and facilitating implementation of the policies that promote and initiate welfare and overall socio –economic development of their societies. The establishment of a customary perception is assisted by increased familiarity of the social fabric of the community at large. The heightened knowledge about the existence of pre requisites which hampers the social life in a complicated metropolitan environment is reflective of conflict (Cohnstaedt, 1966,

NUTRITION RELATED DISEASE Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

NUTRITION RELATED DISEASE - Assignment Example The former, is mostly concerned with nutritional value of food and how dietary imbalance can lead to diseases, while the latter is concerned with the effects of ingesting contaminated food. While nutrition related diseases are caused by the inadequate or excessive uptake of nutrients, food borne illnesses are caused by consuming food contaminated by pathogens or poisonous substances (DeBruyne, Whitney & Pinna, 2008). The consumption of food and beverages contaminated by pathogens or harmful substances such as chemicals often leads to food borne illnesses. There are numerous types of food borne illnesses depending on the causative factors, and therefore, the symptoms of food borne infections vary. According to the CDC (2012) an estimated 48 million people in the United States are infected with food borne illnesses every year, with approximately 130, 000 being hospitalized and 3,000 dying. Raw foods, sea foods, animal products, fruits and vegetables are among the most likely foods to contain pathogens that can lead to food borne illnesses. Therefore, to reduce the risk of contaminants, individuals should clean their hands and surfaces before handling food, prevent cross-contamination, cook foods to the recommended temperatures, and chill cold food (Sizer & Whitney, 2014). According to Sizer & Whitney (2014) the possibility of food additives being carcinogenic is highly unlikely since the United States government does not approve such additives. Similarly, although accidental entry of contaminants in food is possible, such foods are monitored to ensure that such contaminants are not capable of risking the health of consumers, thus ensuring food safety. Food borne illnesses can be acquired from different sources, where pathogens have the opportunity to come into contact with food, thus causing contamination. The intestines of most animals contain harmful microbes and when these microbes