Answer

The Visions of Governance

The efforts of establishing governmental structures began in November 1977 when the Continental Congress adopted the Articles of Confederation. This was the first written constitution of the United States. The Articles of Confederation failed to be ratified in 1978. However, it remained as the operative constitution until late in 1978. The primary aim of the Articles of Confederation was to limit the powers of the central government. The powers of the government were divided, whereby both states and national governments were assigned different roles and powers. Nonetheless, national leaders found many problems with governance under the Article of Confederation, spurring the drafting of a new constitution. This paper outlines the differences in the powers of the states and the national government, as presented in the articles of confederation.  Further, the paper discusses the problems that national leaders saw in governance under the Articles of Confederation that led to the creation of the constitution and how the Constitution endowed the national government with the tools of coercion and the continuing ability to replenish its right to rule.

The Articles of Confederation created different powers for both states and the national government. Clearly, the states were assigned a lot of powers. Each state retained its Independence, sovereignty, powers, and freedom. Every amendment could only be with the consent of the states. Indeed, states remained powerful under the Articles of Confederation. Although leadership powers were designated to the national government, the states were left with powers to collect taxes (Ginsberg et al., 2019: 38). The states were given full economic power of collecting taxes from the citizens. The national government did not have the power to raise money directly from taxes, however, they requested the states for funds or borrowed from foreign governments. Further, the states had the powers over the commercial and development activities such as building various infrastructure. Finally, the states had the powers to pass and enforce bills into laws. All the states were represented in Congress, and no bill could pass into law before getting the approval of nine out of thirteen states.

Under the Articles of Confederation, the national government enjoyed powers that were expressively delegated by the states. However, the powers assigned to the national government were very limited. The national government had the powers to declare wars and make peace. Further, it conducted foreign affairs activities, settling inter-state disputes and requesting money from the states.  The national government also regulated the armed forces, appointed the civil servants regulating Indian Affairs. Unfortunately, the powers of the national government were limited due to financial constraints (Ginsberg et al., 2019: 39).  It was difficult for the national government to declare war or even control the military effectively because it lacked economic power. Furthermore, the national government depended on the states’ ability to pass and enforce laws. Every bill in Congress could only pass after seeking the consent of the majority of the states. In short, the national government depended on the states for law enforcement and financial support. Comparing the two, under the Articles of Confederation, the states were supreme over the national government. This caused significant rifts and problems in leadership.

After the declaration of independence and development of the Articles of Confederation, the transpiration was not enough to hold America together. Although, the Articles of Confederation, became the first document to create powers for states and national government, it created power problems. The national leaders perceived various problems with the Articles of Confederation. For example, the stiff competition among the states created division among the states. As the states competed for both economic and political powers, European powers joined hands to takes sides with states making America more weak and vulnerable.  At some point, when a leader in the Independence struggle named John Adams was sent to the British to negotiate a new treaty, the British government rejected the proposal claiming that the United States had failed to enforce the agreements within the individual states. This way, the national leaders saw that the Article of Confederation would only divide the American States and allow enemies to control the country (Ginsberg et al., 2019: 39). This spurred the need for developing a new constitution that would effectively unite Americans.

 Another problem perceived was the continuous domestic economic turmoil. Every state had the power to control and make commercial decisions. This created economic rivalry between the states and the national government. The states with few resources became less powerful. Further, the dependence of the national government on the states for revenue frustrated government affairs. This also made the national government less powerful to perform the assigned roles. The national government over-depended on the states to make essential decisions. Since they lacked financial and law enforcement power, the national government could not effectively carry out its roles. For example, it was difficult to control the military, declare war, and make foreign decisions without legislative and commercial powers. Generally, the national government seemed to be enjoying virtual powers. Without economic power and the powers to enforce the law, the national government was like a toothless dog. Therefore, the national leaders perceived a situation where America would be controlled by foreign powers. Furthermore, the leaders needed a balance in the country's leadership, spurring the creation of the new constitution.

The framers of the new constitution created a way forward for peace and coercion through various tools. First, unlike in the Articles of Confederation, the constitution established an overall President of the United States. The president became the symbol of national unity. All the sates fell under the presidency. Further, the constitution created a federal judiciary. The rights and freedoms of all Americans were protected under the federal judiciary, headed by the Supreme Court unlike in the Articles of Confederation where the judiciary system that was controlled by the states. Further, the constitution created a bicameral legislature. Initially, the legislature was a unicameral system where the states appointed the delegates to the Congress (Ginsberg et al., 2019: 44). However, in the new system, each state was represented by two senators elected in the housed depending on the population of the state. The new constitution also gave Congress the economic power to collect taxes and regulate commerce while also controlling and maintaining the army[i]. Lastly, the constitution the constitution created three branches of the government that oversights each other. In short, the constitution eliminated the power struggles, and assigned the national government with adequate power and mandates to control the country.

In conclusion, governance in America followed a series of steps. It began by the creation of Articles for Confederation to the new constitution. While the Articles of Confederation gave more powers to the states, it spurred the writing of a new constitution that created a balance between states and the national government. The new constitution endowed the national government with adequate tools such as presidency, the power to collect taxes, proper judiciary system and a bicameral legislature with well-defined powers. The constitution was a tool for accountability, coercion, and tranquility.

13

Why laboratory testing should be ordered prior to starting Depakote

QUESTION

ANSWER

Depakote Case Analysis

                Valproic acid (VPA) is normally utilized to treat mania in the cases of bipolar disorder. Its normal therapeutic range is estimated at 50 to 125 mcg/mL of the value of the total serum concentration figure. The VPA has a high efficacy to albumin which further constitutes free drug concentrations that are directly responsible for the derived therapeutic effect. This paper analyses Yicheng’s case study to establish how his VPA levels can be increased to a normal range.

Case Analysis

                Before starting Depakote, serum liver tests or blood tests should be administered to ensure that the Depakote levels fall within the normal range. Notably, low levels will make Depakote ineffective while too much will be considered as toxic. The normal reference range for Depakote level monitoring is 50-100 mcg/Ml. A value greater than 100mcg/mL is considered toxic (Bentley & Staros, 2019). Yicheng’s Depakote level is below the minimum required range since its current value is recorded as 45 mcg/mL. In this case, it is necessary to adjust the equation to normalize the VPA serum concentrations.

                In this case, the patient’s Depakote ER dosage will be increased from 1500 mg to 4000 mg a day to maintain the normal VPA levels (Jackson, McCollum, Ognibene, Diaz & De Leone, 2015). After the changes in the dosage, VPA serum levels will be assessed 2 to 4 days later (Vickery & Vickery, 2017). Additionally, specific goal of the intended clinical effect when adjusting the VPA dose will be considered. The test will be administered one to four hours after the patient takes the last dosage. Taking the test at this point is recommended since the VPA levels will be at its peak values. Alternatively, the test can also be accomplished immediately before the next dose is administered to the patient as this is considered to be more useful in comparison to peak value times (Labcorp, 2020).

References

Bentley, S. & Staros, B. (2019). Valproic Acid Level. Medscape. Retrieved from https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/2090462-overview

Jackson, J., McCollum, B., Ognibene, J., Diaz, F. & De Leone, J. (2015). Three Patients Needing High Doses of Valproic Acid to Get Therapeutic Concentrations. Case Reports in Psychiatry. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/542862

Labcorp, (2020). Valproic Acid, Serum or Plasma. Retrieved on 24^th June, 2020 from https://www.labcorp.com/tests/007260/valproic-acid-serum-or-plasma

Vickery, B. & Vickery, S. (2017). Is your patient’s valproic acid dosage too low or high? Adjust it with this equation. Current Psychiatry, 16(4), e1-e2

14

What it means to be a Canadian

QUESTION

What it means to be a Canadian

ANSWER

Introduction

            There are many people who seek to become Canadian citizens every day. This is because being Canadian is believed to feature some characteristics that make life easier. Notably, it is believed that Canadians are lazy individuals who do not have to work hard because the government seems to provide everything they need. In this paper, the exact meaning of being a Canadian is discussed. Unlike the common believe that Canadians are lazy, Canada has hard working individuals who are also united, which is why life becomes easier in the country.

What it means to be a Canadian

            It is important to choose this citizenship based on the actual facts rather than misguided assumptions. Canadians tend to value freedom. Unless it is for a good reason, an individual will never be held against his or her will. They are also people who respect the cultural differences which are clearly evident amongst them. As such, individuals get equal treatment and opportunities despite their race or appearance. In addition, they are fully committed to social justice. For example, they fight for affordable healthcare opportunities, for both the rich and the old, through policies. As a result, even the less fortunate in the society get access to quality healthcare.

            Being a Canadian also means valuing peace. This partly explains why conflicts and fights are less common on the country. Whenever there are disagreements, many Canadians will opt to follow the legal route for resolution, rather than take matters in their own hands. This aspect could also be the reason why Canada is among the countries to run peace-keeping missions.

Conclusion

            Being Canadian is not as simple as many assume. Canadians are individuals with specific characteristics and value, which make it seem otherwise. However, their hard work and commitment is what makes them live happier and successful lives. 

15

An organization’s legal and reputational risks    

QUESTION

Define an organization’s legal and reputational risks    

ANSWER

Risks Associated with Legal Compliance

            To remain in business, an organization needs to follow all the necessary rules and regulations. Failure to conform results in fines and penalties among other unwanted outcomes. Any organization therefore ought to understand the risk associated with legal compliance. This paper highlights some questions that would be useful to gauge an organization’s exposure to the risks associated with legal compliance and the adequacy of their preparations. 

What controls over the risks associated with legal compliance are in place and how are those controls conveyed to the necessary staff? Any organization needs some form of control over the risk it faces concerning legal compliance. Deutsch (2017) believes that these established controls ought to be tested periodically to ensure that the organization is protected. Moreover, it is not adequate to have controls over risks but how they are incorporated into the organization matters equally. Do they include the controls in the organization’s policies and procedures? These are some important questions that would gauge the organizations exposure to risk associated with legal compliance. 

            Are there any organizational weak spots that may expose the organization to the risks associated with legal compliance? Simple things that usually go unnoticed can put an organization at risk. Behaviors such as lack of transparency can put the organization at great risk (Deloach, 2017). Does the organization do a periodic review of its culture and policies to ensure there are no weak spots? Such questions are a great tool in gauging the organization’s exposure to the risks associated with legal compliance and the adequacy of their preparations.

            In summary, an organization needs to follow all the necessary rules to remain in business. What controls over the risks associated with legal compliance are in place and how are those controls conveyed to the necessary staff? Are there any organizational weak spots that may expose the organization to the risks associated with legal compliance? These are some useful questions that can gauge an organization’s exposure to the risks associated with legal compliance and the adequacy of their preparations. 

References

Deutsch, Gary. Posted on April 12, 2017. “Corporate Counsel Oversight of the Risk Assessment Process.” LexisNexis. https://www.lexisnexis.com/lexis-practice-advisor/the-journal/b/lpa/posts/corporate-counsel-oversight-of-the-risk-assessment-process( Accessed June 23, 2020).

Deloach, Jim.  Updated on February 18, 2018. “10 Questions You Should Ask About Risk Management.” Corporate Compliance Insights. https://www.corporatecomplianceinsights.com/ten-questions-you-should-ask-about-risk-management/(Accessed on June 23, 2020).

16

Organization’s security technology    

QUESTION

The financial and reputational costs associated with legal non-compliance make it clear that legal compliance and adherence to best practices need to be addressed at a senior managerial level. discuss the types of questions that you could ask your chosen organization’s senior managers and general counsel to gauge the organization’s exposure to the risks associated with legal compliance, and the adequacy of their preparations.

ANSWER

Accessing Organizational IT Security

                Regulatory compliance is a factor which is ever-increasing and impacting how firms conduct their business. Information technology firms face a challenge when it comes to establishing a policy based on the new requirements as they struggle to establish concrete controls that can be effectively deployed within the firm. Information security is a critical asset that the firm’s management should consider protecting to uphold legal considerations.[i] This paper documents the questions which the senior managers within a firm can be asks to understand the level of firm’s exposure to risks related with legal compliance. The questions are focused on establishing if the firm is adequately prepared to handle the best practices needed for the legal and non-legal compliance.

Are the critical IT systems within the organization able to observe data confidentiality?

                This is an important question as it seeks to determine if the confidentiality of the data held within the system can be managed. Evidently, cases involving confidentiality breach is one of the common cases reported by the media which suggest non-compliance to the required measures aimed at protecting sensitive customer information.[i] With this question, the senior management will be required to explore other set of sub questions as outlined below.

Can third party users access the information available on the system without proper authorization?

What actions are undertaken to ensure that only authorized people will have an access to sensitive data?

What are some of the back-up plans that the firm is prepared to initiate in the events where they learn of a potential confidentiality breach to prevent the loss of sensitive data?

How is the firm prepared to handle integrity issues?

                With information systems, unauthorized users can have access to the system and hence make alterations to its source. Firms ought to be prepared to show a legal and regulatory compliance to avoid instances of potential integrity breach and concerns. Additional questions to be explored under this area are outlined below.

How can you verify that the information source is genuine and has not alterations whatsoever before trusting the content?

What measures do you have in place to keep off attackers from the system to prevent any form of malicious activities related with the breach of data integrity?

How often do you schedule checks and auditing procedures to ensure that the data integrity is maintained at the required minimum and that the content of information on the system is legit?

Is information always available to the authorized users?

                Information availability is an important element of computer systems suggesting a legal and regulatory compliance.[i] Therefore, this is one of the important areas which should be examined to prevent potential litigations in the event of a breach. Some of the potential questions to be explored in this case are outlined below.

What measures do you have in place to prevent instances of denial of service attacks?

Natural disasters may be beyond your control. However, how do you plan to promote the availability of data and information to all authorized users in the events of a natural disaster or unexpected human actions?

Do you engage in constant system updates?

What measures do you have in place to ensure the normal use of the systems and data availability in the events of system failures?

References

Breithaupt, Jim. and Merkow, Mark. Information Security Principles of Success. Pearson, 2014

17

Environmental Pollution Presentation    

QUESTION

Perform an internet search to identify an instance of environmental pollution in your state. Use the example you found and the imaginary scenario provided below to complete the assignment.

Scenario: There is a concern about environmental pollution in your state or community. Because of your expertise as an environmental scientist, you have been invited to be a panelist at a town hall meeting in which you will present an overview of the issue. The audience consists of community leaders, members of the scientific community, and some local residents.

Create a 7+ slide presentation (Microsoft® PowerPoint®, Prezi, or Sway®) in which you explain the problem from a scientific perspective.

Address the following in your presentation:

What are the scientific factors that are causing the issue?
How is the issue identified? Describe the data associated with the problem.
What solutions or opportunities should be explored to address the issue further?
Incorporate relevant key words from the Environmental Pollution Key Terms document.Use at least 2 outside references.

ANSWER

There have been a lot of campaigns, formation of organizations, and enactment of laws specifically to save the planet from pollution, which has the capacity to destroy the earth and its contents. Specifically, environmental pollution such as air pollution contaminate the earth with certain gases that have got negative health effects to people ( Kim et al., 2018). Global warming, as a result of increased greenhouses gases has seen several forests destroyed hence damage of the environment. Increased health issues that are caused by pollution reduces productivity of people. Lastly, pollution causes death and extinction of certain species.

The fact that my community falls within the urban centers makes it surrounded with different factories that manufacture diverse materials hence emit different components into the air. Basically, in some instances, one can see dark smoke being released from the chimneys of the companies. According to  Ha (2020), the contents of such smoke include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and particulate matters from the companies.

The ability to meet the demand of people to provide some commodities has increased the rate of production and manufacturing the commodities. One of the most used source of power to drive the machines during production is fossil fuel and coal. As they burn the by products that are known as greenhouse gases are released to the atmosphere which then accumulate into the air ( Kim et al., 2018). Some of such gases are carbon dioxide, Sulphur oxide, and carbon monoxide. Additionally, the companies also produce certain gases that include that are released to the atmosphere in combination with the reaction

There are several ways through which air pollution has been identified. The first one is through smell and sight. It is clearly seen when some companies emit dark smoke through their chimneys into the atmosphere. In some instances, there is foul smell that denotes that there are certain substances on air that should not be there ( Ha, 2020). Additionally, there have been acidic rain which affects the building materials. The acid in the rains reacts with building materials hence erodes them.  Most of the iron sheet in my neighborhood are brownish in color as a result of the acidic rain.

The data above proves that air pollution remains one of the scariest environmental pollution that causes many lives and a predisposing factor for several diseases particularly respiratory diseases, which are also the leading cause of death in the United States (Ha, 2020). Particularly, air pollution kills about 5 million people per year either directly or indirectly

In the event that the major cause of air pollution in my community are industries and factories that originate, the first way of addressing the problem is venturing on the use of green energy such as solar (Kim et al., 2020). Secondly, the effluents as well as the by products can be treated to an extent that they do not cause harm to the environment before they are released to the atmosphere. Lastly, other products such as carbon dioxide can be trapped and use to make other products such as fire extinguishers. Lastly, companies should venture into planning trees that use the emitted carbon dioxide.

Conclusion

u  Environmental pollution is the greatest threat to humanity and the planet as a whole.

u  One of the forms of the environmental pollution that affects my community is air pollution.

u  It is majorly caused by emissions and particles from the factories.

u  Such emissions include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and Sulphur oxide.

u  Some of the ways through which air pollution has been identified are through smell and sight, acid rain, and deteriorating building materials.

u  The effective ways of addressing the issue is through use of solar as source of energy, planning trees, and treating the effluents.

References

u  Kim, Y., Knowles, S., Manley, J., & Radoias, V. (2017). Long-run health consequences of air pollution: Evidence from Indonesia's forest fires of 1997. Economics & Human Biology, 26, 186-198.

u  Ha, E. (2020). Impact of Air Pollution Hazards on Human Development. In Health Impacts of Developmental Exposure to Environmental Chemicals (pp. 223-245). Springer, Singapore.

u  da Costa, G. M., Alves, D. D., Martins, D. P., Adam, K. N., Vieira, S. A., de Quevedo, D. M., & Osório, D. M. M. (2019). Climate Changes and Atmospheric Pollution: Global and Regional Impacts. In Global Perspectives on Air Pollution Prevention and Control System Design (pp. 86-132). IGI Global.

18

Management and Organizational Theory    

QUESTION

• To offer a comprehensive and organized description and analysis of a current or historical news story.
Provide students a direct opportunity to show how they can apply concepts from the text to this story/issue.

• Introduce this issue in a balanced way (Max 500 words)

• Apply concepts from a portion of only one chapter in the text showing how this concepts are (or are not) relevant to the functioning of the organization you have chosen.

ANSWER

The labor policy issue at Walmart

Organizational management describes the practice and processes that involve structuring, planning, and directing the resources and members of firms to achieve predefined goals. Recent developments in the business world highlighted by increased competition due to globalization and increased utilization of technology has made organizational management complex. Different organizations worldwide and the United States grapple with issues even as competition continues to cut on the market share. Organizational management frameworks have become extremely important, and one of the organizations that face challenges but continue to thrive is Walmart.

Walmart, a US-based multinational, demonstrates cutting edge approach to the management of resources, supply chains, and focus on customer satisfaction (McMann, 2019). Looking at Walmart's performance in terms of market penetration, customer satisfaction, and revenue growth creates an image of a successful company. Walmart's growth in revenue between 2017 and 2019 was 7.7%, and the growth in 2020 is estimated to increase by 3.7% in the domestic United States` market. Its growth in the international market grew by 4.1% within the same period, and this gives a perspective of Walmart's success story (McMann, 2019).

Walmart considers its employees one of its greatest assets, but the company that employs more than 2.2million workers across the globe has had a poor track record in human resource management. Walmart has come under immense pressure in the past and present over its employee policy. It has been involved in several lawsuits touching on issues such as gender discrimination in recruitment and poor working conditions. Human resource management's question continues to cause significant harm to a thriving global retailer, and the concerns date back as early as the 1970s (Kolben, 2007). It is understood that current labor problems observed at Walmart are new as the founder Sam Watson established a foundation that fought employees, labor organizations, and unions since the 1970s. The retailer's founder created a non-union culture, an element that generates significant labor disputes and legal troubles as it struggles to defend its policies (Jenkins & Buffett, 2020).

Although the current labor issues at Walmart originate from a history of anti-union strategies and policies in the company, observations suggest that labor costs weighing down on Walmart are critical factors of consideration. Walmart, the third-largest employer in the world, experiences a high cost of labor, reducing profitability significantly. However, further observations suggest that the issues in Walmart's labor policies are not limited to costs and the need to cut down expenses but also entails incidences of discrimination, inability to hire staff on a full-time basis, inadequate medical benefits, and inconsistent scheduling (Abrams, 2017). In a report in 2017, employees decrying the poor working conditions in the retailer's stores, and accusations came up against the company, alleging that it punishes employees for sick days (Abrams, 2017).

In the United States, workers' advocacy groups have accused Walmart of violating the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act. In 2017, Walmart faced a lawsuit alleging that it violated the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's regulations by discriminating against pregnant workers (Abrams, 2017). The issues with labor policy at Walmart form a daunting image. Organizational management must move with speed to ensure changes and propel the retailer to further success in an extremely competitive industry.

Related concept: Social wellbeing

Relationships

Labor policies and the need to ensure social justice in the workplace continue to change management frameworks' dynamics. Organizational success relies on how effective management strategies are in terms of building relationships and promoting social justice. It is imperative to ensure that management approaches foster relationships with employees that do not only focus on profitability but also the welfare of workers on the scope of reducing workplace violence, discrimination in terms of gender, disability or race, provide improved access to social benefits and provision of better working conditions (Abrams, 2017). Observing the characteristics of triple bottom line management approaches recognize the intrinsic value of advancing organizational operations on the scope of social, environmental, and financial growth, implying that the imperatives of success lie in creating consolidated business value for all stakeholders. The imperatives of providing solutions to the labor issues at Walmart rests on management style's ability to enhance goal achievement of productivity and financial wellbeing by fronting the interests of workers (Dyck et al., 2018).

It is implicit that Walmart's management style fails to recognize the contribution of cohesive relationships in attaining higher organizational value. This can be achieved with enhanced workplace motivation, ability to resolve disputes within the ranks of the organization, reduction of bias and promotion of leadership skills such as emotional intelligence, the establishment of trust and mutually satisfying relationships and ability to empathize with others (Dyck et al., 2018). Management focus on empathy particularly resonates well with the prevailing labor situation at Walmart. According to Environmental Social and Governance Report released in 2019, Walmart's store managers in the United States earn an average of $175,000 per year and receive parental leave and health benefits. However, this contrasts significantly with what an average full-time field associate makes at the retailer's stores, averaging $30,000. Further suggestions indicate that field associates may not be entitled to leave and health benefits and implies that the retailer's management needs to establish relationships with employees based on empathy. It is essential that leadership approach employee issues with understanding and focuses on better to improve their lives (Dyck et al., 2018).

Social wellbeing in management and organizational culture advances the idea of establishing frameworks that support employee welfare ranging from health and access to medical benefits. In the view of Walmart situations and allegations against the improprieties associated with its labor policies, the retailer must change its scope of management to focus more on how employee social issues can be addressed;

Flexible working and annual leave policy

Part of ensuring the social wellbeing of employees and reduce labor disputes in organizations entails management approaches that emphasize policy enactment and implementation implicit on promoting flexible working and annual leave for employees. The labor policy at Walmart reflects inconsistencies in how employees access benefits such as entitlement to leave and flexibility in working hours. The issue of leave at Walmart remains intriguing. Unless management frameworks allow employees to balance between home and work responsibilities, the organization will continue to struggle with legal disputes with its workers. The imperatives of social wellbeing through flexible working, parental, and annual leave policies should encourage downtime and space for employees to relax, enjoy hobbies, and pursue other activities besides workers (Dyck et al., 2018).

The issues of social wellbeing in the workplace and why management approaches need to harness employees' interests in the workplace assume multiple dimensions considering the overall characteristics of the current labor market. It takes an effective leadership centered on value-driven human resource strategies to understand that poor labor policy and relations similar to one witnessed at Walmart present threats to public health (Huettermann & Bruch, 2019). Managers need to remain aware of the risks of mental health in the workplace and establish mitigating factors, including promoting flexible working terms and leave for employees. The fact that Walmart advances anti-union traditions and face accusations of violation of workers` rights suggests the need to implement management approaches to reduce the risks of mental health in its workforce (Huettermann & Bruch, 2019). Recent statistics on the growing threat of mental related illnesses should form the basis of management changes that alleviate improprieties in the management of human resource at Walmart.

The CSR component

Developments in the business world highlighted by increased competition and globalization make human resources a vital component of organizational assets. Walmart prides itself on one of the strongest and reliable human resources in the global retail industry despite policy and labor-related issues it faces occasionally. The scoping of management at any organization must remain aware of the changes in the business world and the increased value of corporate social responsibility initiatives in social wellbeing that include the promotion of employee rights and welfare and implementation of community projects (Dyck et al., 2018). CSR initiatives underscore an organization's goals in an expanded trajectory, deviating from the traditional approaches of management that focus exclusively on productivity and financial capabilities. CSR initiatives imply investing time and money into building a reliable human resource, brand, strengthen culture, and expansion to the community. It allows achievement of management goals in terms of customer attractiveness, improved employee loyalty, and talent development (Dyck et al., 2018). It is perhaps important to note that Walmart has introduced CSR strategies endeared towards promoting the social welfare of employees and reduce the impact of labor-related issues affecting its operations and damaging its reputation.

Walmart's corporate social responsibility strategies resonate with the requirement of social wellbeing in management despite the existing challenges. The retailer must continue with the initiative to attain a seamless employee environment in terms of improved work conditions, increased wages, and fairness in recruitment. In a report released in 2015 majority of employees at Walmart showcased optimism in the manner in which the management implemented CSR strategies to improve their education and ensure employee empowerment. This forms some of the issues managers should address when it comes to CSR in promotion of social wellbeing (Dudovskiy, 2016). In 2015, as part of corporate social responsibility, Walmart announced a $1billion investment in US hourly associates to provide higher wages, better training and increased career development (Dudovskiy, 2016).

Walmart's position in terms of promoting gender equality and support of the minority remains on the pedestal despite issues surrounding discrimination against pregnant workers and violation of Americans with Disability and Family and Medical Leave Act. Current statistics suggest that 57% of employees at Walmart are women, and programs such as Walmart's Global Women's Economic Empowerment Initiatives forms part of the firm's CSR in improving equality in society (Dudovskiy, 2016). The initiative reflects Walmart's commitment to enhancing social wellbeing in the community by providing training, providing access to markets, and creating career opportunities for women across the world. Improvement of such initiatives should form the core of management approaches in shaping the social wellbeing of employees and communities supporting the business. The initiatives will create a positive image and allows the organization not only to focus on profitability how it can empower employees.

Meaningful work

The labor issues at Walmart related to discrimination, poor working conditions, lower wages, and anti-union culture contribute to the overall reduction in work meaningfulness. Although surveys suggest that most of the 2.2million at Walmart are optimistic about changes of conditions in recent developments, management frameworks must assess how to introduce meaningfulness at work better (Jenkins & Buffett, 2020). The concept of meaningfulness at work in management approaches resonates well with past and present labor disputes at Walmart. It fundamentally provides directions on how managers can introduce changes to ensure employee satisfaction and induce the overall productivity of human resources (Dyck et al., 2018). Meaningful work improves the meaning of life for those working, and it forms an essential component of social wellbeing in employee management (Dyck et al., 2018).

Studies aiming at affirming the importance of establishing meaningfulness at work recognize that meaningful work influence most of the outcomes in organizational settings and that implies that manager implicit on promoting meaningful work is not only advancing the social wellbeing of employees but also drives towards achievement overall organizational goals (Boreham et al., 2016). Meaningful work contributes to higher job performance, reduced labor disputes, work motivation, job satisfaction, and employee empowerment. It helps lower incidence rates and exposure to the risks of mental health illnesses such as stress and allows organizational commitment, identification, and customer satisfaction (Pignata et al., 2016).

Considering the position setting at Walmart that advances anti-union culture, it would be crucial that management frameworks look at the contribution of establishing meaningful work. Discrimination similar to cases reported regarding pregnant workers, discrepancies in wages between field associates and store managers, inflexible working schedules, and lack of entitlement to health benefits creates a loss of meaning at work. Management criterion at Walmart needs to identify with human resource strategies that make employees feel valued and develop a sense of belonging. Employees need to believe that their work gives them the power and opportunities to contribute positively to society and establish a sense of fit between their job and purpose (Dyck et al., 2018). Work that lacks meaning triggers depression reduces psychological health, low self-esteem, and induces weaker resilience to burnout and increases the risks of suicide. Therefore, as much as management approaches at Walmart must aim at reducing costs through lower wages for its 2.2million workers, it should consider the implications of creating meaningful work for the benefits of employees and the firm.

Conclusion

Strategic management at the organizational level must recognize the contribution of human resources in productivity and establish mechanisms that promote their social wellbeing. Observing the dynamics of the business environment in the contemporary world suggests that increased competition and globalization may push management to focus more on productivity and the financial component of the organization, contributing to employee neglect. Walmart provides a perfect case point of the need for organizational management to advances strategies that eliminate social injustices in the workplace associated with labor policies that undermine employee rights to leave, medical benefits, and higher wages. The concept of social wellbeing relates to protracted labor disputes at Walmart as it addresses how organizational management can establish measures that support employees' social needs.

Walmart's history of anti-union culture and reported cases of violation of workers` rights such as discrimination against pregnant workers, lower wages for field associates, and abuse of people with disability rights signify the need for the management to consider applying concepts of social wellbeing (Abrams, 2017). That will imply that management approaches concerning labor aspects will focus on creating a meaningful workplace, improve CSR initiatives that support employee development, training, and higher wages and provision of flexible working schedules. Establishing management strategies on the scope of promoting employee wellbeing will increase support for unions and reduce legal disputes at Walmart. The concept of social wellbeing in management approaches thus relates to past and present labor-related issues at Walmart.

References

Abrams, Rachel. (2017). Walmart Is Accused of Punishing Workers for Sick Days. Retrieved from: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/06/01/business/walmart-workers-sick-days.html

Boreham, P., Povey, J., & Tomaszewski, W. (2016). Work and social wellbeing: the impact of employment conditions on quality of life. The International Journal of Human Resource Management, 27(6), 593-611.

Dudovskiy, John. (2016). Walmart CSR Overview. Retrieved from: https://research-methodology.net/walmart-csr-overview/

Huettermann, H., & Bruch, H. (2019). Mutual Gains? Health‐Related HRM, Collective Well‐Being and Organizational Performance. Journal of Management Studies, 56(6), 1045-1072.

Dyck, B., Caza, A., & Starke, F. A. (2018). Management: Financial, social, and ecological wellbeing. Sapajo Publishing.

Jenkins, C., & Buffett, W. (2020). Labor Issues, Society & Culture, Resistance Art. Politics.

Kolben, K. (2007). Wal-Mart is coming, but it's not all bad: Wal-Mart and labor rights in its international subsidiaries. UCLA J. Int' l L. & Foreign Aff., 12, 275.

McMann, S. (2019). Turnover Rate: Walmart.

Pignata, S., Boyd, C., Gillespie, N., Provis, C., & Winefield, A. H. (2016). Awareness of stress‐reduction interventions: The impact on employees' wellbeing and organizational attitudes. Stress and Health, 32(3), 231-243.

19

Supermarket’s safety

QUESTION

How a supermarket is expected to do anything it can to ensure a safety of for any of its visitors.

ANSWER

Egeeay Supermarket owes a duty of care to Barbara. Governed by the legislation (Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957), any supermarket is expected to do anything it can to ensure a safety of for any of its visitors. Parla (n.d.), from Roythornes solicitors, explains that the minute a person steps into a store, the store is responsible for ensuring reasonable safety for the purpose for which the person stepped into the store. Any supermarket is legally obligated to either deal with or warn its customers of a dangerous situation likely to arise while they are in the store. Therefore, Egeeay Supermarket owes a duty of care to Barbara.

    Egeeay Supermarket has not breached its duty of care to Barbara. Morris (2019), while advising on claiming compensation when injured in a supermarket, explains that for as long as a supermarket can prove that they have taken every precaution to properly monitor their store by way of a cleaning and inspection regime, the courts will not find them liable for any injury by a customer. Morris (2019) mentions that sometimes a customer does the spillage and walks away without notifying an attendant. He further explains that supermarket premises are usually big and the supermarkets cannot be expected to monitor each and every spillage as it happens. In the above case, the store has a policy to do checks every 15 minutes of the floor in the fruit section. It is possible that the grapes in the pet-food section were unconsciously dropped by another customer thus the store manager was not sure how the grapes got there. Thus, Egeeay Supermarket has not breached its duty of care to Barbara.

If Barbara had slipped on some grapes in the fruit section of the store, Egeeay Supermarket would have evidently breached its duty of care. The store acknowledges that there are a number of spillages every week in the green grocery section of the store. The store even has a policy to check the floor of the fruit section every 15 minutes. Unlike the pet-food section where the store can easily get away with claiming it does not know how the grapes got there or how long they had been there, the store is expected to be more vigilant in the fruit section. This is because acknowledging there are multiple spillages makes the store liable for any slip and fall injuries in this section. Thus, if Barbara had slipped on some grapes in the fruit section of the store, Egeeay Supermarket would have evidently breached its duty of care.

Week 7

Against the retailer, Underwear Galore, Brown has several remedies under the Australian Consumer Law. The Australian Consumer Law dictates that a consumer is entitled to a repair, replace or a refund if the product does not meet the consumer guarantee offered. Brown can, therefore, demand a repair, replace or refund for his underwear as it did not serve him as expected. However, he is not entitled to a compensation for damages from the retailer, Underwear Galore. The Australian Consumer Law explicitly outlines that for a compensation for damage or loss, the plaintiff must prove that the supplier could have foreseen and prevented the damage to the consumer. In the above case, the retailer had no means of determining whether the underpants were free from irritant chemicals as the underpants had been packaged in a clear cellophane wrap and the bisulphite of soda could not be seen on a reasonable inspection by either the retailer or the Brown. Therefore, Brown is entitled to a repair, replace or a refund but not a compensation for the damages suffered from the retailer, Underwear Galore.

             Guided by the Australian Consumer Law, Brown can succeed in a suit against the retailer for as long as he can demonstrate that he bought the underpants from Underwear Galore, he relied on their skills and judgement to purchase the goods, there was an implied warranty for the goods and that the retailer could have foreseen and prevented the damages that he encountered after using the underpants. In my opinion, Brown would not be successful in an action against the retailer, but against the manufacturer. In the appeal to high court by Australian Knitting Mills and John Martin & Co, Starke argued that it was unreasonable to expect James Martin & Co to determine that the goods were free from irritant chemicals yet they had no means of detecting the chemicals (Australian Knitting Mills Ltd v Grant, 1933). Similarly, Underwear Galore had no means of detecting the irritant chemicals that led to Brown’s dermatitis. The underpants were wrapped in a clear cellophane wrap, directly from the manufacturer and the bisulphite of soda couldn’t be seen on a reasonable inspection by the retailer. The retailer was simply a middle-man supplying the underpants as received from the manufacturer. Thus, Brown is likely to fail in an action against the retailer. However, against the manufacturer, Brown is likely to succeed. The manufacturer may have been negligent resulting in bisulphite of soda traces being left on the underpants. Moreover, the manufacturer is adequately equipped with the resources, skills and machinery to check and ensure there are no traces of irritant chemicals that could harm a consumer. Also, the manufacturer can put a ‘Wash Before You Wear’ tag on the underpants to prevent the consumer from the danger of contracting diseases. If Brown can demonstrate that the manufacturer did not do any of the above and was negligent in his duty of care to the customer, he can win in an action against the manufacturer.       

Week 8

            Becoming a franchisee offers several advantages. Business experience is not a requirement to run a franchise as management and training support is offered by franchisors (Mazzarol, & Reboud, 2020). The franchise offers a business system, management and practices already proven to be successful thus helps in avoiding certain risks. Despite having an already established reputable image, franchising also offers access to ongoing advertising support and marketing tools. With a wealth of expertise, experience and networks, franchising offers the evasive advantage of accessing the resources of big businesses but having the independence of a small business. Moreover, as higher rates of success are witnessed in franchising, banks and financers readily offer funds to such ventures as compared to entrepreneurs who choose to not to become franchisees. However, there are drawbacks to becoming a franchisee. Like a dog on a leash, franchising limits creativity as one is barred by franchise agreements. Also, with a limit on the location of operation, the goods to deal in and even the suppliers to buy from, franchising may restrain the profit margins for a business.

            Depending on the situation of the person going into business for the first time, a franchise offers a less risky opportunity to do business. Although there are possible downsides to franchising, the advantages, for a person venturing into business for the first time, far outweigh the flaws. The person not only gets to learn from the best but they are also provided with an ongoing support that ensures that they succeed. Finances are readily available for such a venture compared to independent operators. Risk avoidance is also possible through franchising. Therefore, in the long run, franchising may be retrogressive, but for a first-time entrepreneur, franchising is the best option.  

Week 9

            The Salomon v A Salomon & Co Ltd [1897] AC 22 developed a blueprint for modern laws on corporation. Dahal (2018) describes it as a genesis of modern laws on corporation. From the case came the establishment of a company as a separate legal entity clearly distinct from its directors, shareholders, officers and creators. The case further developed the principle of limited liability of shareholders (Dahal, 2018). This made accounting and bookkeeping easier. For decades, courts have been keen to maintain these decisions, thus it can be confidently concluded that the Salomon v A Salomon & Co Ltd [1897] AC 22 developed a blueprint for modern laws on corporation.  

            Corporate veil refers to the legal concept of treating a company as an entity separate from its shareholders, directors or any other personalities behind it. The company is treated as an independent person with rights and liabilities. It protects these members from being personally responsible for the debts and obligations of the company. Under the Corporations Act, wrongful and fraudulent trading and abuse of the corporate independence warrants a lift of the corporate veil to punish the officers behind such criminal acts (Govender, 2019). Oak (2020) explains that sometimes, the independent corporate personality principle is exploited by officials of a company as a cloak in order to commit fraud or other wrongful acts. Under such circumstances, the Corporations Act warrants a lift of the corporation veil. 

Week 10

            A member of a company, as defined by the Companies Act 2006, is a person who has subscribed to the memorandum of association of a company and who is recorded as a member in the register of members of a company. Intricate details about each member such as their names and addresses must be included in the register of members. Shareholders, on the other hand, are simply people or organisations who buy shares in a given company. The register of members of a company includes all investors and any person who own shares in the company. Thus, any person who is a shareholder is a member but not all members are shareholders in a company. To become a member, one can subscribe and sign the memorandum of association of the company, get shares either through transfer or transmission and the transfer or transmission is recorded by the company along with the entry of the name in the register of members, taking and paying the qualification shares of a company or becoming the beneficial owner of shares whose name is registered in the record of the depository (Surbhi, 2015). The company law does not impose any particular exclusions and any person who is of sound mind and capable of entering into a valid contract can become a member of a company. Private limited companies must have a minimum of 2 members and a maximum of 50 members while public limited companies require a minimum of 7 members with no cap on the maximum number of members. Transfer of all shares by a shareholder, repossession of all shares by a company from its shareholders, death and insolvency of a member and forfeiture of a member’s shares by a company are all circumstances that result in the cessation of membership. (Kihumba, 2014).    

References

Australian Knitting Mills Ltd v Grant [1933] HCA 35, (1933) 50 CLR 387, High Court (Australia).

Companies Act 2006, c. 46. Retrieved from http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/46/pdfs/ukpga_20060046_en.pdf on June 24, 2020.

Dahal, R. (2018). Salomon v Salomon: Its Impact on Modern Laws on Corporations. Available at SSRN 3169431.

Govender, T. N. (2019). An analysis of lifting of the corporate veil in light of s20 (9) of the Companies Act 71 of 2008 (Doctoral dissertation).

Kihumba, M. (2014). Methods of Cessation of Membership from a company. Retrieved from http://financeandrelated.blogspot.com/2014/04/methods-of-cessation-of-membership-from.html#:~:text=A%20person's%20membership%20will%20come,the%20approval%20of%20the%20directors.&text=When%20a%20person%20dies%2C%20his,of%20the%20Law%20of%20Succession. on June 25, 2020.

Mazzarol, T., & Reboud, S. (2020). Work Book: Franchising and Legal Issues for Small Firms. In Workbook for Small Business Management (pp. 127-133). Springer, Singapore.

Morris, I. (2019). Can you claim compensation if you’re injured in a supermarket? Retrieved from https://direct2compensation.co.uk/personal-injury-compensation/slip-trip-or-fall-claims/supermarket-accidents on June 24, 2020.

Oak, V. (2020). Doctrine of Lifting of corporate veil.

Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957, c. 31. Retrieved from http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/Eliz2/5-6/31/section/2 on June 24, 2020.

Parla, C. (n.d.) Accidents in Supermarkets. Retrieved from https://www.roythorne.co.uk/site/individuals/personal-injury-solicitors/supermarket_claims/#:~:text=Every%20supermarket%2C%20shop%20or%20shopping,to%20prevent%20accidents%20from%20happening. On June 24, 2020.

Surbhi, S. (2015). Difference between Members and Shareholders. Retrieved from https://keydifferences.com/difference-between-members-and-shareholders.html on June 24, 2020.

20

Elopement in a skill nursing nursing   

QUESTION

Write your theoretical framework. For this section of your paper, you must specifically identify and address two independent theories or conceptual models that relate directly to your change project in addition to the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle. Keep in mind that your theoretical framework provides the structure for your change project. Think of it as a frame for a new home that is being built.

ANSWER

Theoretical Framework for Implementation of Elopement Prevention in a Skill Nursing Facility

Nursing homes have been facing a persistent problem when it comes to elopement since a majority of their residents are demented, so they tend to engage in dangerous activities if not monitored closely. As highlighted in the preceding assignment, the solution to this problem lies in the establishment of effective patient monitoring systems and security measures. Such a realization led to the belief that wander alarm bracelets and coded electric doors would be instrumental in mitigating these incidences in the skill nursing facility. For such an intervention to demonstrate efficacy, it must be implemented systematically. Theoretical frameworks such as Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA), Kotter’s 8-Step Model, and Lewin’s 3-Stages of Change are instrumental in facilitating success throughout the process (Cameron & Green, 2018). The present paper provides in-depth discussion on how these models can be applied in the implementation of the highlighted intervention (employment of wander alarm bracelets and coded electric doors).

Plan-Do-Study-Act

Background

            PDSA is a four-stage framework that is commonly used by problem-solvers to implement change. These phases include planning (P), doing (implementing) (D), studying (evaluation) (S), and acting (improvisation) (A). When applying this strategy, it is important to consider three fundamental drivers including the end-goal, anticipated change, and actions needed to facilitate the transformation. The first stage is planning, and it necessitates a plethora of activities including recruiting a team, developing an aim statement, describing the process, describing the problem, and identifying solutions and alternatives (Morelli, 2016). It appears wise to point out the facts that this is the most comprehensive phase which in line with the three strategies mentioned earlier. Once a clear blueprint is designed for the implementation, the team can proceed to the implementation phase. At this point, the team should be vigilant in the documentation of problems and outcomes based on observation (Morelli, 2016). Each milestone should be scrutinized carefully to ensure that the intervention offers a sustainable solution. Some of the issues to consider include outcomes vs. expectations, trends, and side effects (Morelli, 2016). Analytical findings developed from this observation should guide the organization in case of needed improvements: noteworthy is the fact that the final stage involves reflection, and strategic improvisation.

Application in the Proposed Intervention

Plan

As far as the proposed intervention is concerned, the change agent (nurse leader) will recruit a team of technology experts to collaborate with the organization’s nursing team in ensuring that all residents are logged into the system. This process is highly likely to demand some training for nurses to learn basic technical skills to manage the system as soon as the technology experts are dismissed. The leadership will then share the plan, during brainstorming sessions, to bring all relevant stakeholders (mainly the practitioners) on board for the sake of commitment and seamlessness.

Do

The technology team will install a software in the hospitals information system, then distribute logged wearables to the patients, who will then become traceable through a graphical user interface. Four electric doors will replace the old manual ones to ensure that only people with a passcode can open them. Also, the system will be alerting the nurse on duty whether the door is tampered with, or when a resident is close to it. Such a proactive approach will allow the team to keep tabs on risky movements. As long as the plan is detailed and clear, this implementation phase will be seamless.

Study

            It suffices to argue that the implementation phase should be segmented to ensure that each milestone is measured separately to guide further steps. The process will be divided into three sub-phases including software installation and training, resident registration, and electric door installation. The outcomes of these stages will be measured at this point: emphasis shall be placed on the results vs. the anticipated outcomes.

Act

            This stage will capitalize on the findings recorded after evaluation (the preceding phase). Any failures or need for improvement will be resolved through the formulation, and implementation of a new plan.

Kotter’s 8-Step Model

Background

            Kotter’s change management theory is among the most popular models in the world, and it is grounded on the idea that change is often implemented in eight phases. According to the theorist, the first stage involves creating an urgency. The change agent executes this phase by identifying and highlighting inevitable inefficiencies bound to plague the organization if change is not implemented (Galli, 2018). With this knowledge, the change agent proceeds to the second stage which mandates the formation of coalitions with guiding teams (key stakeholders). Once the team understands the stakes, they collaborate in fine tuning the change agent’s vision to the organizational purpose (Galli, 2018). This vision is then conveyed to other team members who will partake in the execution. Kotter believes that the best move is empowerment, so that the team players can enact the vision (Galli, 2018). This phase usually necessitates the provision of essential resources and rewards. The sixth stage is usually implemented through the generation of short-term wins to foster improvements and maintain high motivation levels. The penultimate phase calls for the consolidation of goals (based on observation) to accelerate sustainable change (Galli, 2018). Once the transformation is deemed sustainable, it is then anchored in the organizational system and culture.

Application in the Proposed Intervention

Creating an Urgency

            Like the PDSA concept, Kotter’s 8-step technique can also be applied to promote success in the proposed initiative. The nurse leader will first create an urgency by researching and highlighting the obvious threat elopement poses on the runaway resident’s lives as well as the institution’s reputation.

Building Coalitions

Such a clear outlook will allow the change agent to form alliances with other organizational leaders in the finance, technology, and nursing departments. These stakeholders are instrumental in the success of the intervention since they have the authority to implement such initiatives.

Developing and Inspiring Vision

            Of course, the change agent often has a vision from the word go; however, the highlighted stakeholders must have a role in fine-tuning, or at least, affirming the vision so that it is in line with the organization’s values, vision, and mission. This vision will focus on explaining how the wearable monitoring bracelets and the coded electric doors will promote resident safety and the organization’s prestige.

Conveying the New Vision

            Once the key stakeholders are confident in the vision, they will then share it with other team members including nurses, technology experts, and other vested parties including patients’ families.

Empowering the Team to Implement the Vision

            Empowerment is a crucial ingredient in any change process, since people tend to resist the same. For this reason, the leadership will ensure that all the necessary financial, human, and technological resources are available to safeguard the project. It would also be fair to offer rewards for top performers during the process.

Short Term Wins

            Short term-wins can only be attained through the division of the project into goals. As highlighted in the PDSA model, process will be divided into three sub-phases including software installation and training, resident registration, and electric door installation. These goals will give the team an opportunity to experience short-term wins.

Sustaining Acceleration

            This phase is usually important since it marks the point where the team reflects on outcomes and develops further plans to accelerate the change process. As far as the proposed intervention is concerned, the leaders will evaluate data recorded during the previous stage to determine the types of improvements needed.

Instituting Change

            If the outcomes of process will be satisfactory, the intervention will then transition to this phase. This point will be marked by the integration of the new developments into day-to-day organizational activities and rules.

Kurt Lewin’s 3-Step Change Model

Background

            Unlike Kotter’s multi-thronged strategy, this one defines the change process as a simple three phase activity which involves unfreezing, changing, and refreezing normative practice. The first step involves challenging the status quo (Hussain, et al., 2018). Here, the change agent is expected to prove why the current practices are detrimental to the organization. The tension created at this point inspires the entire organization to implement the change (Doppelet, 2017). Lewin urges leaders to maintain keen observation and analysis during this stage since it determines whether the organization will move forward or backwards. Once the change is implemented, it is established as the new status quo (Hussain, et al., 2018).

Application

Unfreezing

            As highlighted in the previous techniques, the first stage will involve exploring and exposing the current errors facing the facility with regards to elopement. The team will be taken through insightful brainstorming sessions to convince them that the current state is not beneficial for the residents, and the organization at large. When the majority are convinced that change is necessary, the leaders will then share the desired vision and purpose (Hussain, et al., 2018).

Changing

            This implementation phase will rely on effective observation and analysis skills; therefore, the process will be divided into three parts including software installation and training, resident registration, and electric door installation respectively. Each phase will be closely monitored and analyzed before proceeding to the next phase.

Refreezing

            Once the change is made, the organization’s leadership will convene meetings whereby new rules shall be formulate to ensure that this intervention is normalized as a sustainable organizational practice. The clinical practitioners will have to learn how to manage the systems without overreliance on contract-based technology experts.

Conclusion

            Clearly, implementing change is a process that demands systematic thinking and acting. A thorough exploration of the PDSA, 8-Step, and 3-Stage models of problem-solving has showed the usefulness of each of them. As a matter of fact, they all tend to apply a somehow standard approach: emphasis on challenging the system, planning an intervention, implementing the change, and evaluating the outcomes. One of these techniques can be utilized in the intervention proposed earlier.

References

Cameron, E., & Green, M. (2019). Making sense of change management: A complete guide to the models, tools and techniques of organizational change. NY, USA: Kogan Page Publishers. Retrieved from http://www.uop.edu.pk/ocontents/Change%20Management%20Book.pdf

Doppelt, B. (2017). Leading change toward sustainability: A change-management guide for business, government and civil society. London, UK: Routledge. Retrieved from https://books.google.com/books/about/Leading_Change_Toward_Sustainability.html?id=2bHjQwAACAAJ

Galli, B. J. (2018). Change management models: A comparative analysis and concerns. IEEE Engineering Management Review, 46(3), 124-132. Retrieved from https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/8486843/

Hussain, S. T., Lei, S., Akram, T., Haider, M. J., Hussain, S. H., & Ali, M. (2018). Kurt Lewin's change model: A critical review of the role of leadership and employee involvement in organizational change. Journal of Innovation & Knowledge, 3(3), 123-127. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2444569X16300087

Morelli, M. S. (2016). Using the plan, do, study, act model to implement a quality improvement program in your practice. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 111(9), 1220-1222. Retrieved from https://journals.lww.com/ajg/Fulltext/2016/09000/Using_the_Plan,_Do,_Study,_Act_Model_to_Implement.2.aspx

21

NIH materials: Protecting the rights of human research participants.    

QUESTION

Discuss at least three of the following in your paper:

Describe the circumstances that influenced the need for a policy to protect human research subjects. Give examples of specific ways human research subjects can be harmed by researchers.
Identify three vulnerable populations and the special restrictions associated with human research among these groups. Evaluate the requirements and restrictions. Do you think they are adequate? Why or why not?
The Belmont Report summarizes the ethical principles and guidelines for research involving human subjects. Three core principles are identified: respect for persons, beneficence, and justice. Even though these principles are considered equal, prioritize them in order of importance to you. Explain your decisions.

ANSWER

Reflection on the Rights of Human Research Participants Protection

           The involvement of human beings in research as subjects or participants is a critical subject in health-related studies. Participants or subjects are individuals who volunteer to take part in a research. Typically, they are provided with consent forms to sign as a confirmation of agreement of their willingness to partake as subjects without coercion. Consequently, it is imperative to protect the rights of any individual who chooses to participate in research. This paper, therefore, reflects on the protection of the rights of human research subjects. Consequently, it describes the circumstances that influenced the need for a policy to protect human research subjects. Additionally, it identifies a vulnerable population and special restrictions that are associated with human research, and prioritizes the ethical principles in the order of their importance. 

Circumstances that Influenced the Need for a policy to Protect Human Research Subjects

           The need for the policy to protect human research participants was influenced by several circumstances. Generally, the need was initiated as a result of egregious research abuses (Breault, 2006). More specifically, the need was to thwart the overexploitation by the researchers on vulnerable individuals like patients. Patients frequently enrolled as research participants have various reasons including the hope of improving their medical conditions (Breault, 2006). Additionally, the need was to protect human research participants from being hurt in the process of their participation (Breault, 2006). An example is the cause of pain, suffering, and even death. Therefore, the need to prevent and hinder subject abuses during research, avoidance of subject overexploitation, and minimize of eliminated injuries during the research are some of the circumstances the influenced the need for a policy to protect human research subjects. 

Vulnerable Populations and Specific Restrictions Associated with Human Research.

           A vulnerable population is a group of people who are susceptible to unethical research participation, hence requires protection. A vulnerable population is a disadvantaged section of a community that requires uttermost attention including protection under research. Additionally, a vulnerable population includes, but unlimited to children and minors, the elderly, and educationally and economically disabled (Shivayogi, 2013). Consequently, this group of individuals has special restrictions that are associated with human research. These restrictions include timely and efficient communication, data privacy, and therapeutic deliberations (Shivayogi, 2013). Therefore, such a population needs protection during their participation in human research.

Prioritization of Ethical Principles as Summarized in the Belmont Report

            In the move to protect the rights of human research participants, the National Commission for the Protection of Human Subjects for Biomedical and Behavioral Research came with the Ethical principle report. The Belmont report summarizes the report into three core ethical principles. In prioritizing the three principles in order of importance, respect for persons becomes the first followed by beneficence, and lastly justice. Respect for persons is important since it allows an individual to accept or decline to participate in research (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2016). Additionally, it becomes a priority among the ethical principles since it is after the acceptance that leads to the benefits and justices (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2016). Moreover, the beneficences supersede the principle justices since it enables the targeted population under study to benefit optimally.

Reference

Breault, J. L. (2006). Protecting human research subjects: The past defines the future. Ochsner Journal, 6(1), 15-20.

National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2016). Optimizing the nation's investment in academic research: A new regulatory framework for the 21st century. National Academies Press.

Shivayogi, P. (2013). Vulnerable population and methods for their safeguard. Perspectives in clinical research, 4(1), 53.

22

 Agent-based systems  

QUESTION

Provide a literature review on Agent-based systems  

ANSWER

Abstract

In 4^th Generation (4G) Networks, deployment of multimedia applications have been effective in allowing users with ubiquitous computing enabled smart phones to transcend physical and social barriers to exchange information and connect with others  anywhere across the globe. The 4G revolution has crucial antecedents of innovative service provisioning frameworks which take into account user buying behavior, device sophistication and available content providers. These dynamics, and others that shall be discoursed in this research paper, should be considered by network operators as they develop billing systems to preclude laborious computation of proceeds for entities involved in the provisioning practice. This paper proposes a system for automated business-driven service provisioning. Evidence of concept execution is set up in 4G mobile network. A smart system, capable of utilizing swaths of information, including operator’s corporate tactics, accessibility of new programs, content modules, user location, device specifications and the amount of credit on user account, is operationalized to help operators to facilitate on-the-spot generation of list of potential users of new services.

Keywords: 4G Networks, ubiquitous computing,

Contents

1.0 Introduction/Background  4

2.0 Methods  5

3.0 Results and Findings  8

4.0 Related work  10

5.0 Conclusion and Future Work  14

References  14

Application of Agent Based System to Service Provisioning Problems in the 4G Mobile Networks

1.0 Introduction/Background

The past decade has witnessed an upsurge in technological mediation in business activities. This trend has been attributed, in part, to fast-paced growth and adoption of information communication technology (ICT) offerings. As a result, inherent benefits of ICT growth such as superior computing capabilities, vastly improved world-wide web, global internet access and connectivity, all noticeable antecedents of virtual reality, and business integration have gained prominence (Monostori, Váncza & Kumara, 2006). Similarly, rapid expansion and transformation of markets typified by high number of entrants into emerging sectors such as virtual enterprises, integration of processes, customer-driven logistic networks, and e-commerce has headlined demand for Artificial Intelligence (Vasirani & Ossowski, 2012; Luger, 2008). Whereas there are ongoing deliberations among artificial intelligence policymakers and researchers on defined path of technological dynamics of technologies, there is concurrence that accessibility of data and the capacity to proliferate, and derive meaning from it is idealized as indispensable asset for firms that seek to confront mounting customer needs in world markets. As a result, Agent-based calculations present new standard of computing expertise that fundamentally refines and enhances technological capacity to establish the aforestated patterns (Monostori, Váncza & Kumara, 2006).  In recent history, Agent-based conceptualizations and practices have been discussed in myriad scientific and engineering literature. In practice, agents are expected to solve problems arising from “autonomy and complexity” and are as such expected to respond to vacillations and interruptions by demonstrating intelligence. In their computing roles, agents are perceived as social actors with the capacity to exhibit an ability to facilitate self-recovery and response to real-time ICT trepidations. Thus, Agents are a vital cog in the global ICT revolution, as it infers an expansive business stage, geographically and technologically. These and other conceptions have been adopted into industrial enterprises since they accelerate attainment of significant characteristics, namely, sovereignty, sensitivity, expendability, distributedness, and sincerity. Agents may possibly be deployed in situations in which there are undefined and inadequate data and facts. Therefore, numerous responsibilities associated with manufacturing, such as engineering design and supply chain management could be assigned to agents who should be authorized to interconnect and collaborate with similar entities.

 2.0 Methods

This step focuses on Application of Agent Based Systems to Service Provisioning Problems in 4G Mobile Networks. Specifically, this section recommends a solution for a practical situation involving the creation of a list of potential users for the new service. The proposed methodology is anchored on the Business Manager Agent (BMA), an interface linked to the network provider’s Business Support System. Petric et al. (2007) offers a cursory description of the proposed solution by arguing that satisfaction of necessary rudiments of business from the user‘s end activates the Java Expert System Shell (JESS) rule engine codified as “http://herzberg.ca.sandia.gov/jess” which then notifies the BMA to induce the automated service provisioning process. Automated service notification is activated at this time, just about the same time a device-specific type of the software component is activated. At this stage, the service generates a report to the BMA (Petric et al., 2007; Dumic, 2007). To enhance data security, download of the software notification from the download server is deferred until a strategy is in place for its execution. Subsequently, the Software Retriever Agent (SRA) retrieves the software module as the Remote Management Shell (RMS) agents position it at the Broadcast/Multicast Service Center (BM-SC) nodes to facilitate retrieval in hand-held devices and subsequent execution on their mobile phones (Kusek, et al. 2003). The methodology also employs the Charging Manager Agent (CMA) which functions as an interface for the Billing Server. Upon confirmation of request from the BMA, the CMA counterchecks the balance on user’s account. Charging Manager Agent is guided by checks and controls specified in the BMA. The quantity of messages received at the CMA should reflect the magnitude of strategies to be implemented. Considering the fact that messages from the BMA are specific to target users, it is imperative for the CMA to utilize real mobile numbers, preferably, the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) numbers. The latter are expected to conform to the requested type (Petric et al., 2007). Subsequently, the CMA connects to the Database Agent (DBA) which has privileged access to the database containing user profiles. The DBA inspects the database and returns the IMSI numbers for particular users assigned a given user type to the CMA as shown in Figure 1 below.

Figure 1. Finding the IMSI numbers (Petric et al., 2007)

The CMA authenticates the received user accounts to determine eligibility of subscribers to the service. Eligibility is usually determined on the basis of the amount of money in in a given user’s accounts as shown in Figure 2. Incidentally, the BMA is quite versatile and can be dedicated to optimizing sequence of implementation of business strategies

Figure 2. Checking the users’ accounts (Petric et al., 2007)

In this way, optimization is attained by through the genetic algorithm approach (Petric et al., 2007). Upon completion of sequencing of strategies, the BMA returns an outcome to the Provisioning Manager Agent (PMA). The PMA essentially coordinates the functions of SRAs, and are additionally applicable to real utilization procedure implemented through the RMS system. Petric et al. (2007) identifies the parameter as specifically containing “nature of content, location, time, QoS, user type” are necessary for location of target users. The identified users are delineated as those who have genuine interest in specific mobile and are within locations demarcated in the business strategy. Upon authorization by the BMA through an optimal execution order, the PMA signals the DBA to demarcate potential users and subsequently forwards the list of users concerned in accordance with their unique IMSI numbers as shown in Figure 2. It has also been proven that the CMA is essentially scalable and can be used to amalgamate both users’ lists for particular approach. Upon receipt of the ultimate list of targeted users, the PMA executes the service provisioning function on behalf of selected users. Principally, the SRA obtains a catalogue of software programs that are yet to be procured. Once procurement is certified as complete, the RMS agents can initiate “the migration and installation of that software on the remote BM-SC node.” Upon completion of installation the users are authorized to begin using the new service on their terminals by means of the Access Network.

3.0 Results and Findings

This step explores research findings through theoretical analysis of the research topic based on the methods above. A number of exploratory studies favorably associate Business-driven Service Provisioning Process in 4G mobile networks with potential alteration of current configurations in the telecom industry by facilitating the direct connection of users to a single network provider (Petric et al., 2007). Since current stakeholders in 4G service network include, “network operators, content providers, independent software providers and users”, past research suggest the crowded field of actors, will precipitate emergence of new problems. Similarly, Kusek et al. (2003) positively correlates high number of stakeholders with billing challenges. Particularly, is projected that network operators and content developers will struggle to craft a suitable tradeoff between high unit costs and high sales volumes. Undoubtedly, the stakeholders will encounter stiff challenges in the determination of billing rates at which they need to charge mobile users for services in 4G mobile networks. Additionally, efficient billing of network services in “telecommunication systems architecture” will inevitably necessitate various kinds of nodes and mobile equipment. This underscores the necessity of determining client characteristics and behavioral properties, account balance on their devices and the user’s account details during the service provision process (Petric et al, 2007).

Similarly, strategies to increase revenue will almost certainly require augmentation of sales. The same effect may be achieved by instigating cost-reduction measures such as lowering operational costs. It is also logical for network operators to go beyond cost-cutting to employ innovative strategies to “satisfy new user demands”. This will likely compel the network operator to rationalize operations in accordance to the proposed business strategies. It has also been established that software agent strategic choices are mediated by the operators’ business strategies that mirror dynamics and permutations in the telecommunications sector (Petric et al., 2007). Moreover, several studies, notably by Petric et al (2007) and Kusek (2003) associate Agent strategies with positive outcomes such as sustainable competitive advantage. In this respect, competitiveness is attained by leveraging on advantages derived from having intricate knowledge of the consumer behavior and Business to Business (B2B) relationships in the external business environment. Standard practice by many operators reveals a general proclivity to for the “rule engine”, a framework by which defined business approaches are encased. Indeed, the implication of this strategic trajectory is for business strategies should to be encapsulated in firm wide rules that guide provision of new mobile services. Besides, the business rules that define official statements on business information and procedures. As typical multi-agent systems employ “action enabler rules” they tend to induce an action upon validating certain prescribed conditions as true (Petric et al., 2007). The enterprise rules encompass necessary parameters for describing new mobile services as may be delineated by nature of the service content, type of mobile device, service execution sites, category of the target users, and the software modules for the implementation of services on mobile devices, Quality of Service (QoS), and duration of execution of the chosen strategy (Petric et al., 2007). Additionally, other parameters are contained in a different location known as The Charging Server. This location stores relevant data concerning the client accounts and applicable tariffs for each of the services available to the customer. As a result, Agent-based systems are effective for delivering Content and Event based billing to the benefit of the operator and the content providers through the Service Charging Application Protocol (SCAP). Thus, flexible billing practices of multimedia services are executed in conformity to determined service charges. The “Provisioning portal” avails a user-friendly interface that displays user predilections, contextual data, and device specifications. On the other hand, the User Profile Directory contains user profiles suitable for ascertaining whether software upgrades are permitted. It also encloses a catalogue of International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers that distinctively categorize the type of mobile device used b specific users (Petric et al., 2007). The Terminal Profile Directory provides information on characteristics of various mobile devices based on their vendors. The Home Location Register (HLR) facilitates mobility management by availing information regarding the user’s location.

4.0 Related work

This section summarizes related work, compares methods and results from reviewed literature. Studies by Monostori, Váncza and Kumara (2006) have presented the Agent -Based standard of computing and deliberated the characteristic features of software agents as well as the procedural actions of multi-agent systems. From methodical survey of selected Agent Applications, the authors perceives various agent technologies as fundamentally indispensable in all facets of manufacturing since they facilitate realization of recommended Agent properties as “autonomy, responsiveness, modularity and openness” (Monostori, Váncza & Kumara, 2006). The study also scrutinizes multi-agent systems deployed in a decentralized manner and how they are assimilated to distributed and incomplete data and knowledge sources. On uncertainties and subsequent conflicts, the focus shifts to communication, collaboration and cooperation, as a strategy for circumventing such challenges. While the agent-based approach permits open-ended plans and execution of intricate systems, the study acknowledges a number of bottlenecks which typically manifest as challenges of scalability, safety and traditional software quality. The main impediments to global adoption of agent technologies in manufacturing industry have also been summarized. These include vacillations in international operations, incessant fights involving agents and self-seeking entities, and poor communication. In recent times, the industrial acceptance of Multi-Agent Systems (MAS) in engineering has been comparatively low, a situation blamed in part, to hitches arising from failed attempts to integrate with existent legacy systems. Integration of MAS and legacy systems persists even when incremental approach is preferred. However, advances in Agent technologies are regarded as exceptionally vibrant, pioneering and “ramifying” (Monostori, Váncza & Kumara, 2006). While still on the subject, Agents tend to take upon themselves a burning obligation to facilitate convergence with modern industrial software technologies. Henceforth, it is anticipated that agent-based computing will evade inherent challenges of Agent based systems. Accordingly, while drawing from qualitative research, Monostori, Váncza and Kumara (2006) identify the overarching goal of industrial manufacturing as the “general conversion of all capital to the satisfaction of human needs. Consequently, Monostori, Váncza and Kumara (2006) emphasize four critical directions: adaptive, digital, knowledge-based, and networked manufacturing as new paradigms for future manufacturing. The “four directions” are nevertheless comprehensively aggregated under the concept of cooperative manufacturing (Monostori, Váncza & Kumara, 2006). Still, all four directions remain indispensable to the realization of numerous agent technologies. It is projected that development of multi agent-based systems will likely be in tandem with manufacturing, though the former is projected to create more challenges for the latter.

Cross-sequential studies by Fisher (1994) employs Concurrent MetateM, a multi-agent programming language to derive meaning out of agent based systems through application of executable temporal logics, assimilated into broadcast message-passing and grouping mechanisms. Subsequently, their applications to diverse engineering contexts have been conversed and the approach vindicated in both “logical and practical terms” (Fisher, 1994). In addition to the concept of autonomous objects, Concurrent MetateM also offers a greater structuring mechanism by its ‘groups’ extension. This feature limits the degree of an object’s interaction, and permits additional “mechanisms” for the refinement of Agent-Based approaches for firms. In this way, it presents the Agent with the opportunities for realization of collaboration, rivalry and communication. In addition, Fisher (1994) has proved the potency of logic-based approach as a theoretical model and a practical modeling tool. Some scholars have revered the Concurrent MetateM language for its natural efficacy in capturing an extensive collection of agent behaviors. It is hoped that irrespective of the efficiency of the combined approach, the concepts of implementable agent characteristics and group-based agent interactions may be applied discretely in Future Systems. Finally, Fisher (1994) demonstrates the potential benefits of closing gaps between theory and practice. Also, the text has exposed the possibility of preserving relevant elements of agent description while opening new frontiers for future innovation.

Similar studies by Balakrishnan (2019) have investigated Agent Based Systems from the perspective of Intelligent Agent. The Intelligent Agent perspective is anchored on the belief that Agents “which surrounds the same purpose”, will aid the discovery of appropriate content in an effectual and efficient manner (Balakrishnan, 2019). In brief, the Intelligent Agent- based systems facilitate resolution of complex practical issues through intellectual cooperation to form a sustainable pathway for making stumbling blocks and subsequently group-up the outcome (Liu & Barber, 1998). All things considered, the IA agent-based approach has proved effective in aiding the development of lots of agent generation algorithms.

Similar works by Stewart (2009) on Agent-Based Systems have fundamentally focused on their applications with respect to possible effects of imposing numeric principles on a number of “states and actions” on “tractability” of basic success and maintenance of agent design problems. Essentially, it has been established that agent design problems remain intractable irrespective of the severity of numeric conditions. Accordingly, the aforestated conditions preclude tractability of agent design problems to the extent that a contrary outcome is only possible through “restrictions” on other sorts (Stewart, 2009).

In the same way, analyses by Winikoff and Cranefield (2014) found that the probability space of possible behaviors for Belief-Desire-Intention (BDI) agents is, in fact, large, when considered in both absolute and in relative terms. The preceding declaration is valid when paralleled with technical programs of the same size. In keeping with theoretical projections, it is anticipated that the number of possible behaviours will increase with corresponding increase in the tree’s depth and breadth (Winikoff & Cranefield, 2014). Conversely, to a certain degree, it is surprising that addition of failure handling causes a markedly substantial change to the “number of behaviours”. For example, for immutable goalplan tree 3 units deep and 2 units wide, introducing failure handling escalated the quantity of “successful” behaviours from 128 to 6,332,669,231,104 (Winikoff & Cranefield, 2014). Another advantage of BDI-mediated agent based system permit the delimiting of extremely flexible and robust benefits. These facts have been put forth in analyses by Winikoff and Cranefield (2014) who provide numerical justifications for long-standing persuasion that BDI agents permit for the description of highly flexible and robust agents. Flexibility in this regard is delineated as the sum total of probable behavioral attributes of an agent, which has been proven to be sufficiently large. Robustness is defined as the capacity of agent to recover from failure. Winikoff and Cranefield’s (2014) analysis ratify the BDI failure recovery mechanism as effective as it facilitates achievement of low proportion of real failure (< 1%), even in circumstances in which individual actions have reasonably high likelihoods of failure (5%).

5.0 Conclusion and Future Work

From the foregoing reviews, Agent-Based Systems have been executed as a panacea to the service provisioning problems in the 4G mobile networks. Multi-agent system, derived from dovetailing of intelligent and mobile agents, has aided computerization of services and configuration processes in the implementation of service in 4G mobile networks environment. In this research, an extension of the multi-agent architecture has been deployed in the computerization of enterprise-focused service provisioning process in the 4G mobile network. Research findings confirm that the employed method permits operators to automatically abstract a catalogue of potential users during the launch of new services. It is recommended that this research is escalated to include context-aware provisioning of Integrated Management System (IMS) –enabled ubiquitous services.

References

Balakrishnan, S. (2019) An Overview of Agent Based Intelligent Systems and Its Tools. CSI Communications magazine, Volume, (42), 15-17.

Dumic, G., Podobnik, V., Jezic, G., Trzec, K., & Petric, A. (2007, June). An agent-based optimization of service fulfillment in next-generation telecommunication systems. In 2007 9th International Conference on Telecommunications (pp. 57-64). IEEE.

Fisher, M. (1994, August). Representing and executing agent-based systems. In International Workshop on Agent Theories, Architectures, and Languages (pp. 307-323). Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg.

Kusek, M., Jezic, G., Ljubi, I., Mlinaric, K., Lovrek, I., Desic, S., ... & Huljenic, D. (2003, June). Mobile agent based software operation and maintenance. In Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Telecommunications, 2003. ConTEL 2003. (Vol. 2, pp. 601-608). IEE

Liu, T. H., & Barber, K. S. (1998, July). Selection of conflict resolution strategies in dynamically organized sensible agent-based systems. In AAAI/IAAI (p. 1193).

Luger, G. F. (2008). Artificial intelligence: structures and strategies for complex problem solving. Pearson education.

Monostori, L., Váncza, J., & Kumara, S. R. (2006). Agent-based systems for manufacturing. CIRP annals, 55(2), 697-720.

Petric, A., Ljubi, I., Trzec, K., Jezic, G., Kusek, M., Podobnik, V., & Jurasovic, K. (2007). An agent based system for business-driven service provisioning. In Proceedings of the 22nd International Conference on Artificial Intelligence.

Stewart, I. A. (2009). The complexity of achievement and maintenance problems in agent-based systems. Artificial intelligence, 146(2), 175-191.

Vasirani, M., & Ossowski, S. (2012). A market-inspired approach for intersection management in urban road traffic networks. Journal of Artificial Intelligence Research, 43, 621-659.

Winikoff, M., & Cranefield, S. (2014). On the testability of BDI agent systems. Journal of Artificial Intelligence Research, 51, 71-131.

23

Application process work 

QUESTION

Demonstrate the caring and empathetic attitude you have to the frail aged.
· Demonstrate your ability to work as an effective team member of the care staff showing your time management, organisation and negotiation and conflict resolution skills as well as your ability to follow instructions from senior staff.
· Demonstrate your knowledge and your ability to implement the requirements of Workplace Health and Safety and Infection Control Policies.
· Demonstrate your ability to provide quality care to the residents and to maintain written records such as Aged Care Funding Instrument for an appropriate lifestyle for the residents.
· Demonstrated ability to ensure Resident choice with care needs within care plan guidelines.

ANSWER

Application Process Work

Mary Jones

334543 17^th Street UK 9938

Home 5656044 Cell: 2332223

[email protected]

                22^nd June, 2020

The Company

4^th Avenue Street

UK 8887

454546

[email protected]

Dear Sir James,

Being an experienced and certified nurse assistant, I was excited to see a job posting within your firm seeking to fill the position of a nurse assistant. I have a strong nursing background and extensive experience dealing with frail aged persons. For more than three years now, I have volunteered in offering caring for the old in different care homes in the United Kingdom. I am an effective team player who is always ready to learn how to care for the frail aged people to promote their comfort. Despite being a part-time student furthering my studies in nursing, I still strive to accomplish my volunteering work in the nursing homes without fail. I understand that the aged are vulnerable, and thus I am always focused on promoting the safety of the clients by abiding by the set safety and control policies. For example, Pohl et al. (2015) advise that reducing the risk of falls among the elderly can be addressed through effective safety precautions.

One of my strong areas is completing financial documents and maintaining well-written records, and I believe that I have what it takes to complete Aged Care Funding Instrument to support the livelihoods of the old. I have a personal goal of promoting the satisfaction and care of the elderly. Therefore, I can effectively implement the requirements of the care plan guidelines to achieve this objective. For instance, Coalition for Collaborative Care (2015) recommends that one should work collaboratively to meet the needs of the vulnerable population while offering care and support.

I believe that I am best suited to fill this position and I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you in advance for your consideration.

Your Faithfully,

Mary Jones

References

Coalition for Collaborative Care, (2015). Personalised care and support planning handbook: The journey to person-centred care. Retrieved from https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/core-info-care-support-planning-1.pdf

Pohl, P., Sandlund, M., Ahlgren, C., Bergvall-Kåreborn, B., Lundin-Olsson, L., & Melander Wikman, A. (2015). Fall risk awareness and safety precautions taken by older community-dwelling women and men--a qualitative study using focus group discussions. PloS one, 10(3), e0119

24

 Post-traumatic stress disorder.   

QUESTION

Describe the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.   

ANSWER

• Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the known stress and trauma-related disorders that affect a considerable number of people in society. This disorder is often associated with particular occurrences or events in an individual’s life that caused some form of emotional trauma to an individual. Those who have such a diagnosis often have episodes when they relive the scenario and present with particular features (Cordova, Riba & Spiegel, 2017).

Post-traumatic stress disorder often follows particular triggers that can easily be linked to the initial traumatic event. Continued presentation of symptoms that make an individual derange from normal function and daily routine make this a disorder, hence necessitating appropriate treatment.

The common symptoms of PTSD are as follows:

Repeated memories of particular traumatic events that occurred in the past. Affected patients will often have this as a common complaint. This can equally manifest as repeated dreams of a particular traumatic event (Bryant, 2019)

Patients with PTSD exhibit avoidance of particular events or people who are attributed to a particular traumatic event. Untreated cases progress to hypervigilance and persistent negative beliefs about a given person or place associated with a traumatic event.

Panic attacks and agitation when an individual is subjected to a particular memory, event, or place that is emotive of a particular traumatic event. This can also manifest as sleep disturbance reported as difficulties in initiating or falling back to sleep at night (Bryant, 2019).

PTSD is a condition that can be adequately managed if a diagnosis is made early enough. Psychiatrists and psychologists both play a critical role in ensuring that affected patients get the correct form of therapy and support throughout the period of care (Bryant, 2019). The patients can be put on medications including anxiolytics as well as subjected to cognitive behavioral therapy so as to explore the traumatic event and help the patients overcome their fear.

There is a need to encourage people to come out and seek treatment as this condition can be debilitating and affect an individual’s social life significantly. With the correct therapy and medication, this condition can slowly be corrected and confer an individual a normal life.

References

Bryant, R. A. (2019). Post‐traumatic stress disorder: a state‐of‐the‐art review of evidence and challenges. World Psychiatry, 18(3), 259-269.

Cordova, M. J., Riba, M. B., & Spiegel, D. (2017). Post-traumatic stress disorder and cancer. The Lancet Psychiatry, 4(4), 330-338.

25

Data analytics

QUESTION

What are the key areas in which data analytics can improve? Who are the key stakeholders who should be involved in this/these improvements? 

ANSWER

Key Areas that can be Improved by Data Analytics and Key Stakeholders Involved

Data analytics is increasingly becoming an integral component of healthcare. The implementation or adoption of data analytics in healthcare organizations contributes to the improvement of key areas associated with big data such as patients’ medical records, hospital records, medical examination results, and devices that constitute the internet of things (IoT) (Dash et al., 2019). Quelch and Rodriguez (2015) highlight five primary areas that data analytics can improve including advanced analytics, applied outcomes research, client services, data services, compulsory reporting, and project management. Data analytics contribute to the improvement of these areas by ensuring proper management and analysis of data so that meaningful information can be derived (Dash et al., 2019).  This information can then be employed in supporting clinical decision-making, health management, delivery of quality care, and disease surveillance (Khanra et al., 2020). Data analytics also help in the improvement of outcomes associated with non-standard clinical work (Quelch & Rodriguez, 2015). Moreover, data analytics play a vital role in improving healthcare communication strategy (Quelch & Rodriguez, 2015). Data analytics also improves financial and patient data by combining these two classes of data to provide decision support (Quelch & Rodriguez, 2015).

The key stakeholders involved in the implementation of data analytics in healthcare organizations are executive leadership, data analysts, researchers, information technology (IT) consultants, patients, nurses, physicians, and external partners including healthcare systems and International Business Machines (IBM) Corporation (Quelch & Rodriguez, 2015). Executive leadership assists in the execution of organizational vision (Quelch & Rodriguez, 2015). Data analysts play an essential role in generating healthcare reports, while researchers help in the measurement of the strengths associated with data analytics’ interventions and models delivered. Information Technology consultants provide technical advise to the organization on how a unified analytics group can be created through the establishment of a high-level road map (Quelch & Rodriguez, 2015). Patients are also among the key stakeholders needed to ensure the success of implementing data analytics in healthcare organizations considering that patients’ engagement is needed to improve quality of outcomes (Quelch & Rodriguez, 2015). Persistent devotion to establishing robust relationships with physicians and nurses is also considered a vital step to ensuring the success of data analytics. Furthermore, physicians play a significant role in the success of data analytics by engaging in the implementation of any tools and recommendations derived from data analytics (Quelch & Rodriguez, 2015). External partners such as healthcare systems and IBM play a significant role in the improvement of the quality and breadth of data.

References

Dash, S., Shakyawar, S. K., Sharma, M., & Kaushik, S. (2019). Big data in healthcare: management, analysis and future prospects. Journal of Big Data, 6(1), 1-25.

Khanra, S., Dhir, A., Islam, A. N., & Mäntymäki, M. (2020). Big data analytics in healthcare: a systematic literature review. Enterprise Information Systems, 14(7), 878-912.

Quelch, A. J., & Rodriguez, L. M. (2015). Carolinas HealthCare System: Consumer Analytics. pdf file.

26

Healthy People 2020

QUESTION

Diabetes | Healthy People 2020 https://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives/topic/diabetes#.YJkvMvQCdWA.whatsapp

based on above instruction and topic

• Compose a research paper using APA guidelines to format your paper. The length of your paper should be between 3-5 pages. Make sure to include a title and reference pages, but an abstract is not necessary for this paper. (You may type your paper outside of the course and upload it to the assignment. If you do this please type "See Attached" in the response box.)

ANSWER

Assignment: Telehealth as an Intervention for Diabetes and Other Chronic Diseases

Diabetes Mellitus (DM), a chronic metabolic condition commonly known as diabetes type 2, affects the body's ability to process blood sugar, leading to increased blood sugar levels. Complications from diabetes is the cause of the rise in the number of deaths of people suffering from diabetes mellitus. Some of the complications associated with this chronic disease include cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and eye problems, including blindness, neuropathy, foot ulceration, and foot amputation (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 2019). Therefore, the US has different interventions to reduce the increased mortality rate because of diabetes mellitus. One of these interventions is the use of telehealth to help with the increased awareness and education of the entire population to help address the growing number of death cases because of diabetes mellitus and its complications. Reducing the risk of and death cases of diabetes mellitus includes incorporating telehealth as an intervention strategy to help patients with diabetes mellitus by creating awareness, monitoring, providing dietary plans as well as physical activity sessions.

Understanding Tele-health

Technological advancements and innovations have led healthcare facilities and healthcare professionals to look into innovations that help with ensuring that each person, whether in rural or urban centers, has access to healthcare services. Tele-health is one of these services rendered to help ensure an appropriation of health services is evenly dispersed to all. Cohen et al. (2019) explain that telehealth is a process through which patients with certain diseases and ailments can get information dispersed through electronic systems that help with the continued gain of information and healthcare services. Tele-health provides information that helps create interventions for people with diabetes mellitus to reduce cases of diabetes mellitus and reduces the mortality rate.

Tele-health as an Educative Intervention

To help enlighten and educate people on the problems associated with diabetes mellitus, telehealth has become an appropriate tool for communication and education. Through telehealth, governments have monitored areas within countries where there are more cases present of diabetes mellitus than others have. Research shows that through telehealth, remote, rural, and areas with disadvantaged people have increased in people with diabetes mellitus over areas where people live affluently (Siopis et al., 2020). In the US, people from the African- American, Hispanic, Asian- American, and Native- American races are at a higher risk of contracting the disease than Whites in the US, as these races have been estimated to have a bigger likelihood of contracting diabetes mellitus. Therefore, showing that telehealth helps create charts and information to help with government interventions on diabetes mellitus cases.

Information gathered from telehealth on areas with most diabetes mellitus is used to plan strategies to reduce diabetes mellitus cases effectively. Part of these strategies includes the production and dispersion of educative material on chronic illness. Therefore, in conjunction with the government, healthcare organizations will use this information to appropriate strategies to effectively reduce mortality rate cases of people with diabetes mellitus and associated complications (Siopis et al., 2020). Through telehealth services, educative material is made and dispersed to people in remote, rural, and areas with disadvantaged areas to help cultivate ways to curb diabetes mellitus cases appropriately. People with access to mobile applications and the internet in these areas will have a chance to access newsletters and periodicals that help them learn more about the emerging trends towards medication, treatment, and prevention strategies of diabetes mellitus. Ultimately, telehealth works as an educative tool to help dispense and disperse information that helps with better living and prevention plans to reduce diabetes mellitus cases.

Dietary Plans and Physical Activity Interventions through Tele-health

Telehealth is an appropriate tool for creating exercise and dietary plans for people having diabetes mellitus. Müller et al. (2016) explain that the rise of diabetes mellitus cases in people has led to increased needed interventions towards curbing the disease. With the innovations in technology, telehealth has helped dispense ways in which physical activity and exercise can be a part of the daily routine for people with diabetes.  Shubrook et al. (2018) explain that most people at risk of contracting diabetes mellitus are obese people. Telehealth services will increase physical activities by creating physical exercise applications that people can use at these applications from the comfort of their homes (Müller et al., 2016). Obese people should go through physical activities to reduce their body weight and keep them fit. While reducing their body weight through physical activity, obese people open pathways for air and blood circulation that help with proper blood flow and nutrient distribution through blood sugar that offers the body energy to perform tasks (Shubrook et al., 2018). The production of applications that incorporate fitness challenges aimed at bodyweight reduction will help obese people have better exercises and physical activities tailored to them, regarding their desired body mass index (BMI) and how they will help them reach the bodyweight goal. Ultimately, physical exercises through telehealth applications will help reduce cases of diabetes mellitus.

Ramadas et al. (2018) explain that dietary plans are as important as physical activities in the interventions to increase diabetes mellitus. Tele-health helps create information on dietary plans that can help people maintain good health and curb diabetes mellitus in countries. Through a combination of supervised and well-planned diets from nutritionists and dieticians, dietary plans can be dispensed through applications made suited for specific people. Ultimately, dieticians and nutritionists, with the incorporation of innovative technologies, will develop applications and ways of dispensing information technologically that allows the creation of telehealth services that promote reduced diabetes mellitus cases and reduced mortality rates in diabetes and diabetes mellitus complication cases. Conclusively, telehealth is important in providing information that promotes physical activities and dietary plans that will increase the reduced rates of diabetes mellitus in society.

Tele-health Gestational Diabetes Interventions

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes type 2 that affects pregnant women with hypertension and vasoconstriction, leading to increased blood sugar in the mother's blood system. Hence, the mother is diagnosed with gestational diabetes that becomes a part of them as they continue living and affects them. Tele-health will help make electronic information that helps women find stress-free environments and ways of managing stress that will lead to hypertension and eventually gestational diabetes. Sushko et al. (2021) emphasize that through telehealth, pregnant women can learn about self-monitoring methods that allow them to go through the pregnancy successfully without contracting gestational diabetes. These self-monitoring processes include monitoring blood glucose to ensure that the pregnant woman is within the desired ranges (Sushko et al., 2021). Also, telehealth will work effectively towards promoting educational materials to midwives on upcoming trends that they should use in educating pregnant mothers in rural, remote, and disadvantaged areas on the best ways of self-management when at home and following through on healthy diets and dietary plans for pregnant women. Ultimately, telehealth will be an appropriate intervention in helping pregnant mothers avoid being diagnosed with gestational diabetes and help in healthy pregnancies and safe deliveries without any complications.

Conclusion

Tele-health is continued technological innovation and advancement that has helped healthcare centers and healthcare practitioners develop ways to reach people with chronic diseases in remote, rural, and disadvantaged areas. Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic condition can be managed, and incidences of cases and deaths associated with the condition reduced across the US and entire world by incorporating strategies that help in physical activities, dietary plans, self-monitoring, and education to the public on dangers and prevention strategies against diabetes mellitus. Ultimately, telehealth through technological advancements helps in ensuring that cases of diabetes mellitus are contained and maintained. Such interventions look into better dietary plans, physical activity, the medication that helps with managing early detection, providing pregnant women with stress-free environments, and racial education on the dangers of diabetes mellitus by governments. With the end goal of managing diabetes mellitus using modern technology available through telehealth services, the continued interventions will help reduce the number of death cases associated with diabetes mellitus while increasing the US and global civilian population on healthy living.

References

Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019, October 21). Put the Brakes on Diabetes Complications. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/features/prevent-complications.html

Cohen, L. B., Taveira, T. H., Wu, W.-C., & Pirraglia, P. A. (2019). Pharmacist-led telehealth disease management program for patients with diabetes and depression. Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare, 26(5), 294–302. https://doi.org/10.1177/1357633x18822575

Müller, A. M., Alley, S., Schoeppe, S., & Vandelanotte, C. (2016). The effectiveness of e-& mHealth interventions to promote physical activity and healthy diets in developing countries: A systematic review. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-016-0434-2

Ramadas, A., Chan, C. K. Y., Oldenburg, B., Hussein, Z., & Quek, K. F. (2018). A randomized-controlled trial of a web-based dietary intervention for patients with type 2 diabetes: changes in health cognitions and glycemic control. BMC Public Health, 18(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-018-5640-1

Siopis, G., Jones, A., & Allman‐Farinelli, M. (2020). The dietetic workforce distribution geographic atlas provides insight into the inequitable access for dietetic services for people with type 2 diabetes in Australia. Nutrition & Dietetics, 77(1), 121–130. https://doi.org/10.1111/1747-0080.12603

Shubrook, J. H., Chen, W., & Lim, A. (2018). Evidence for the Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 118(11), 730–737. https://doi.org/10.7556/jaoa.2018.158

Sushko, K., Menezes, H. T., Strachan, P., Butt, M., & Sherifali, D. (2021). Self-management education among women with pre-existing diabetes in pregnancy: A scoping review. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 117, 103883. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2021.103883

27

 Annotation of a Qualitative Research Article    

QUESTION

• Use the Walden library database to search for a qualitative research article from a peer-reviewed journal on a topic of your interest.
  • Before you read the full article and begin your annotation, locate the methodology section in the article to be sure that the article describes a qualitative study. Confirm that one of the types of qualitative research designs or approaches, such as narrative, ethnographic, grounded theory, case study, or phenomenology, was used in the study.
  • Annotate one qualitative research article from a peer-reviewed journal on a topic of your interest.
  • Provide the reference list entry for this article in APA Style followed by a three-paragraph annotation that includes:
  o A summary
  o An analysis
  o An application as illustrated in this example

ANSWER

Annotated Bibliography

Reference

Roberts, S. H., & Bailey, J. E. (2011). Incentives and barriers to lifestyle interventions for             people with severe mental illness: a narrative synthesis of quantitative, qualitative         and mixed methods studies. Journal of advanced nursing, 67(4), 690-708.

Summary

This research study, conducted by Roberts and Bailey in 2011 and published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing, sought to investigate the evidence for the factors that support (incentives) and inhibit lifestyle interventions for people with schizophrenia and other severe mental health illnesses. The study draws attention to the fact that severe mental illness patients, especially those with schizophrenia and related conditions, have poorer physical health and higher mortality and morbidity rates compared to the general population. This health inequality, as the authors maintain, is largely attributable to lifestyle and social factors, although antipsychotic therapy also contributes significantly to the inequality. Many researchers in this area tend to focus more on behavioral lifestyle interventions such as exercise programs and smoking cessation, which means that little is known about the factors that may facilitate or inhibit the patients’ engagement with these interventions. To explore these factors, the researchers searched eight electronic databases including Google Scholar and the Cochrane library for journal articles that were published between 1995 and March 2009. They employed a narrative synthesis of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method studies to analyze the collected data. Research findings showed that some factors that support lifestyle interventions for mental health patients include peer and staff support, personal attributes, symptom reduction, and staff participation, whereas the inhibiting factors (barriers) include treatment effects, illness symptoms, negative staff attitudes, and lack of staff support.  

Analysis

Roberts and Bailey (2011) distanced themselves from the status quo by focusing their research on an under-researched area: the evidence for incentives and barriers to lifestyle interventions for mental health patients. Indeed, investigating the incentives and barriers to lifestyle interventions transcends the current state of affairs in mental health research where the majority of researchers focus primarily on the efficacy of behavioral lifestyle interventions such as weight management, smoking and drug-use cessation, and exercise in the treatment and management of severe mental health illnesses. The research article is also authored by two authors who have RN certifications and work as healthcare professionals, researchers, and advisers in two different universities in the UK. Moreover, it is published in a popular journal – the Journal of Advanced Nursing, meaning it has undergone thorough peer review. Combined, these aspects of the article give it a higher authority as well as make it more authentic and valid. However, the research’s major weakness lies in its currency. The research was conducted and published in February 2011 (more than 8 years ago), which implies that the findings and information presented may be dated.  

Application

Mental health illnesses and their related conditions continue to plague the public health care systems of many countries across the world. In addition to compromising the quality of both patients and their families, mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, contribute to poorer physical health outcomes and higher rates of mortality and morbidity. Various therapies and lifestyle interventions have been developed to help treat people with severe mental health illnesses or at least alleviate their symptoms. However, physicians, nurses, caregivers, and other healthcare practitioners tend to overlook the incentives and barriers to such interventions, making most interventions ineffective or unsuccessful. Therefore, by exploring the incentives and barriers to lifestyle interventions for mental health patients, Roberts and Bailey’ (2011) research is useful to me as a future RN in the sense that it informs me on how I can effectively administer lifestyle interventions to patients while capitalizing on their potential incentives and mitigating their barriers.

28

Roles in Advanced Nursing Practice   

QUESTION

The Roles in Advanced Nursing Practice paper is worth 150 points and will be graded on the quality of the content, use of citations, use of Standard English grammar, sentence structure, and overall organization based on the required components as summarized in the directions 

ANSWER

Roles in Advanced Nursing Practice 

Advanced Practice Nurses have obtained education, practice requirements, and mostly provide services in community-based settings (Allsop, Morphet, Lee & Cook, 2021). They are at the forefront in preventive care services to members of the public. They offer new and effective ways of increasing access to qualified practitioners for patients and families. APN should be based on theory and research as essential guides to clinical practice. Transitioning from RN to APN requires a series of educational programs to enhance understanding of various nursing theories and practices that facilitates delivery of quality healthcare (Allsop, Morphet, Lee & Cook, 2021). The paper will discuss the plans for the Rationale for Choosing CNP Role and clinical practice and role transition.

Four APN Roles

Nurse practitioners undertake various functions in a clinical system, such as providing primary and acute healthcare across lifespan through diagnosis and treatment of injuries and illnesses. They provide specialty care to patients by collaborating closely with other healthcare providers such as doctors (Allsop, Morphet, Lee  & Cook, 2021). Besides managing common health conditions, they also conduct physical examination and diagnosis. They order diagnostic tests and prescribe therapeutic. They might provide family healthcare or limit their practice to a given population such as children or adults. Certified Nurse-Midwives provide essential gynaecological and productive healthcare services. They provide prenatal and postnatal healthcare. Moreover, they exercise delivery services as well as primary healthcare services to delivering women. Nonetheless, they offer essential family planning counselling and preconception care to their Patients. Certified Nurse-Midwives have adequate training in issues concerning delivery and labor. However, they are required to consult with physicians when they are presented with challenging circumstances during pregnancy.

            Clinic Nurse Specialists are experts in given areas of nursing practice. They may focus on selected patient population or individual patients. They provide diagnosis, treatment, as well as ongoing management of patients. Nonetheless, they provide expertise and support to other nurses caring for patients to achieve best possible outcome of patients. They must have leadership and management skills in particular healthcare setting where they are involved. On the other hand, certified registered aesthesia provides range of anaesthesia and pain management practices to patients. Every year millions of patients require anaesthesia during medical procedures that come with unbearable pain. Nurse anaesthesia provides care for patients, before, during, and after the surgical procedures (Allsop, Morphet, Lee & Cook, 2021). They conduct anesthesia administration and monitor their patients throughout the medical procedures and recovery process.

Rationale for Choosing CNP Role

Becoming a certified nursing practitioner is an exciting practice in the field of nursing. For instance, it presents an intellectual challenge and requires thoughtful steps to ensure quality care delivery to patients (Ko, Burson & Mianecki, 2019). It presents opportunity to solve challenges in the nursing practice. Thus, nursing practitioners are required to have a masters or doctorate. Besides, nursing practitioners have the autonomy to start their private practice. Thus, many ambitious individuals would seek this line of practice. Nurse practitioners have high return on investment. Despite working hard and saving the lives of patients, they also earn competitive salaries. Besides, nurse practitioners’ schools are affordable compared to medical schools increasing the opportunity cost. Nonetheless, the practice comes with other benefits such as paid time off, health insurance, continues education, and professional liability insurance, among others (Ko, Burson & Mianecki, 2019). The nurses have many opportunities since they can practice across all healthcare settings, such as retail clinics and psychiatric hospitals.

Plans for Clinical Practice

After graduating with my nursing degree, I would seek to get better in my field of practice and provide challenges to the nursing practice at a higher level of practice. That is, I would want to continue to gain knowledge to become an expert. I want to provide high-quality patient-centred care as a leading practitioner or a front-runner in my field. I would want to show my value as an employee by doing jobs that most people find difficult to execute. I want to continue with my education to achieve more academic credential and practice at the highest level of nursing in my field. For instance, gaining technological and software skills related to my skills would give me a vast opportunity to practice. I would collaborate with others and elevate those with who we seek to achieve similar health objectives.

Role Transition

Transitioning from RN to NP is the dream of every nurse since it comes with increased knowledge, wages, and freedom for practice. However, it is required that nurses have prior RN nursing experience before they can make the transition to NP (Allsop, Morphet, Lee & Cook, 2021). I understand the practice difference between the two levels of nursing, and this has made me embrace the changes that occur during the transition process. I have relied on Benner’s theory of transition to guide my transition process. The drive to be an expert has been a significant motivating factor to me concerning the need to undergo a transition. The need to be autonomous and embark on private practice was also an important factor for transition. Transition from RN to NP role is a crucial step towards career growth and development but also provides opportunity to provide quality care services.

Conclusion

Becoming an advance practice nurse provide opportune to nurses to practice at higher level and solve most difficult challenges in the field of nursing. There are various APN roles depending on the field of nursing that an individual decides to pursue. However, certified nurse practitioner provides an interesting filed of practice for people intending to execute various critical issues in the nursing field. Every nurse should have plans for clinical practice after graduation. It is an opportunity to develop career growth plan and contribution in the healthcare system. While various issues inform role transitioning from RN to NP, it is an important undertaking that ensures increased knowledge and provision of quality care and nurses are required to take the transition.

References

Allsop, S., Morphet, J., Lee, S., & Cook, O. (2021). Exploring the roles of advanced practice nurses in the care of patients following fragility hip fracture: A systematic review. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 77(5), 2166-2184.

Ko, A., Burson, R., & Mianecki, T. (2019). Advanced nursing practice roles: Closing the knowledge gap. Nursing management, 50(3), 26-36.

29

 Self-Care Theory  

QUESTION

Chosen theory - Dorothea Orem: Pioneer of the Self-Care Nursing Theory
Write a report on the chosen theorist/theory that includes the following:
1. Explanation of how patient outcomes could be used to determine the success of the theory's implementation.
2. Contrast between present practice and what would take place if the theory were guiding the practice.
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.

https://www.americansentinel.edu/blog/2020/07/11/dorothea-orem-pioneer-of-the-self-care-nursing-theory/

ANSWER

Dorothea Elizabeth Orem’s Theory of Self-Care

The Self-care Nursing Theory was created by Dorothea Elizabeth Orem, a nursing philosopher. According to Younas (2017), the self-care theory centers on an individual’s aptitude to conduct self-care, illustrated as the practice of behaviors that people instigate and conduct personally in preserving wellness, existence and healthiness. Post University (2020) indicates that the Self-care theory is comprised of three consistent models. These include the self-care theory, the theory self-care deficit, and the premise of nursing systems. This paper discusses how patient outcome can be used to determine the success the self-care nursing theory and contrast between current practices as well assess what would happen if the theory is used as a guiding practice.

According to Younas (2017), Orem’s self-care theory assists nurses in evaluating the features of patient care and the type of care to center on at any incident. The theory stresses the significance of patient personally maintaining self-sufficiency. Younas (2017) indicates that various patient outcomes can be used to determine the success of the self-care theory. For instance, Orem’s theory centers on the practice of behaviors that a person conducts on their individual behalf. These may be activities to preserve a person’s existence and life performance and correct a health condition or deviation.  According to Borji, Otaghi and Kazembeigi (2017), patient’s outcomes such as living healthy, consuming healthy foods, getting enough rest, exercising daily and avoiding alcohol and drugs are essential in determining the success of the theory of Self-care.

Orem’s self-care theory advocates that patients are more competent to get better when they exercise independence regarding their personal care. In the current healthcare system, nurses play a significant role in ensuring patient safety by conduction different activities including assessing managing a patient’s therapy and medication. However, Orem’s theory argues that patients also have the ability to assess and intervene in their medication and therapy processes. The self-care theory is founded on the base that every individual has an inbuilt capability, rights and obligation to care for themselves (Borji et al., 2017). Therefore, in the self-care theory, a notion of human growth is reflected that development and maturation often go with autonomy, a need to be self-directing and persuade others to exercise self-care.

According to Orem, self-care is a learned behavior that an individual conducts for themselves, which significantly contributes in preserving wellness, life and health. The fundamental conditioning aspects that affect an individual’s aptitude to participate in self-care include gender, age, developmental stage, health condition, resource adequacy among other factors. The self-care theory is essential in the modern healthcare system, given that it views from the patient’s perspective, which allows patients to provide self-care with altering degree of help from the nurse, rather than completely depending on the nurses (Borji et al., 2017). If Orem’s self-care theory is used as guiding practice, it will assist patients in learning different approaches of self-care, which assist I managing different conditions they encounter and preserving wellness.

Conclusion

The theory of self-care centers on individual’s capability to conduct self-care. Patient’s outcomes such as living healthy, consuming healthy foods, getting enough rest, exercising daily and avoiding alcohol and drugs are essential in determining the success of the theory of self-care. If Orem’s theory is employed as guiding practice, it will help patients learn different approaches of self-care, which are fundamental in managing different conditions they encounter and preserving wellness.

References

Borji, M., Otaghi, M., & Kazembeigi, S. (2017). The impact of Orem’s self-care model on the quality of life in patients with type II diabetes. Biomedical and Pharmacology Journal, 10(1), 213-220. https://biomedpharmajournal.org/vol10no1/the-impact-of-oremsself-care-model-on-the-quality-of-life-in-patients-with-type-ii-diabetes-in-ilam/

Post University. (2020). Dorothea Orem: Pioneer of the Self-Care Nursing Theory. Self-Care. https://www.americansentinel.edu/blog/2020/07/11/dorothea-orem-pioneer-of-the-self-care-nursing-theory/

Younas, A. (2017). A foundational analysis of Dorothea Orem’s self-care theory and evaluation of its significance for nursing practice and research. Creative Nursing, 23(1), 13-23. https://connect.springerpub.com/content/sgrcn/23/1/13.abstract

30

Green spaces/outdoor leisure in mental health

QUESTION

Discuss the Evidence-Based Practice Health Report: Green Space/ Outdoor Leisure in Mental Health

ANSWER

Mental health is vital at every stage of human life because it determines how individuals handle stress and make healthy choices. Mental health patients need to adopt the most effective evidence-based care towards ensuring their wellbeing. Evidence-based strategies can be established via an evaluation of the different studies conducted on a topic and the determination of the most appropriate approach to use in ensuring better mental health. One of the methods used in mental health is exposure to green space and outdoor leisure activities (Wendelboe-Nelson et al., 2019). A majority of those studies have established that urban green spaces have various benefits to mental health. However, there have been inconsistencies in the findings of the studies reported (Van den Berg et al., 2016). Whereas some studies report significant health benefits arising from exposure to green space, others show marginal benefits and in some studies, there is an absence of any positive health outcomes. As such, a need arises for further studies to be done to get evidence-based results about the potential of green spaces and outdoor leisure in ensuring better mental health. The present study seeks to explore different studies to establish the correct position in terms of how green spaces coupled with outdoor leisure affect the mental health of individuals.

Methodology

            The search for the different qualitative and quantitative studies started with an exploration of various search engines such as Google and Google Scholar. The literature review question that was used during the search is: What is the impact of exposure to green spaces/outdoor leisure on mental health? The inclusion criteria for articles were that they had to be published within the last five years and scholarly. Some of the keywords used in the search are green space, mental health, stress, and empirical research. Non-scholarly articles were excluded and those found to be outside the topic area were excluded. A PICO format was used to help in narrowing down the research area from a general one to a specific topic. After the use of keywords and phrases, six articles were found which all touched on the impact of exposure to green space on mental health. The various scholarly sources obtained from the search were reviewed to ensure that they met all the inclusion criteria such as year of publication, quality of information contained therein, the relevance of the findings, and their overall contribution to the topic of interest. An exanimation of the articles resulted in various findings.

Findings

Summary

            Barton and Rogerson’s (2017) article is a descriptive study that focuses on discussing the importance of green space for mental health. After a review of the literature, the authors established that there exists modern research evidence that green space is important in ensuring population-level mental health.

Coppel and Wüstemann (2017) sought to investigate the impact of access to urban green space and self-reported mental health. Their quantitative study; which relied on a cross-sectional survey of the European urban area, found out that access to urban free space contributed to improved mental health outcomes.

Ekkel and de Vries’s (2017) study reviewed various quantitative and qualitative studies to identify the accessibility metrics related to green space indicators of better mental health. The findings of the studies were that some of the metrics, which affect the effectiveness of urban green spaces in ensuring better mental health include the quality of the green spaces, sizes of the green spaces, and distance from the users.

Kondo et al. (2018) sought to establish any causal relationships between green spaces and urban settings. The authors used a systematic review of the literature to determine whether there is an interconnectedness between urban green spaces and human health. Their findings were mixed in that in some instances a positive correlation was found whereas in others there was no association at all.

The aim of Wood et al.’s (2017) article was to investigate any association between the presence, amount, and attributes of public green space and the mental health of residents in a new greenfield neighborhood developments. Using a quantitative study, the authors found out that the overall number, as well as the total area of the public green spaces, was significantly associated with improved and greater mental health and wellbeing.

Zhang and Tan (2019) set out to establish the dependence on urban green spaces’ health association on some of the parameters for quantifying the urban green spaces. The metrics studied include park area, canopy cover, and vegetation cover. After using a population-based household survey in different areas of Singapore, the authors' results were that all three metrics have a positive correlation with mental health.

Synthesis

            After an examination of the different studies, it has been established that urban green space has a positive correlation to mental health. A majority of the studies explored have illustrated that exposure to urban green spaces results in better mental health. For example, Barton and Rogerson’s (2017) study established urban green spaces are important in ensuring population-level mental health. Similarly, Coppel and Wüstemann (2017) found out that exposing mental health patients to urban green spaces results in improved health. However, Kondo et al. (2018) study obtained mixed results where in some instances a positive correlation was found to exist between urban green spaces and mental health whereas, in other instances, no correlation existed at all. However, overall, a positive correlation was found to exist between exposure to urban green spaces and improved mental health.

            The nature of improvement to mental health for individuals exposed to green spaces is affected by metrics such as the size of the green space, the quality of the green spaces, and the distance of the urban green spaces from the users. Ekkel and de Vries’s (2017) study reported that although the urban greenspace had a positive impact on mental health, more improvements to mental health outcomes were found in areas where the green spaces were of high quality, large sizes, and a short distance to the users’ residences. Similarly, Zhang and Tan (2019) found out that some of the metrics, which make urban green spaces have a significant impact on mental health are park area, canopy cover, and vegetation cover. Based on these findings a gap can be identified.

Gap

            Although many studies have found out that urban green spaces are vital in ensuring the mental health of the users, a majority of the studies have only focused on green spaces in urban areas and not those in rural areas. Additionally, none of the studies have explored the impact of combining the urban green spaces with different types of leisure activities. As such, a need arises for a study to establish how exposure to both green spaces and leisure activities affects mental health in rural areas. Thus, the proposed research question is:-

What is the impact of exposure to green spaces and leisure activities on mental health?     

Quality of Evidence

Qualitative Study

Ekkel and de Vries (2017) is the qualitative study chosen from the search yields for evaluation of its quality of evidence. The qualitative research approach is appropriate for the study because it ensures that the authors can review both quantitative and qualitative studies to gauge the impact of accessibility to nearby green space and human health. A qualitative study was appropriate in responding to the research question, which was on the specific metrics of green space which can affect mental health. The research question for the study was: what is the impact of the accessibility metrics of residential proximity and cumulative opportunity aspects of urban green spaces on mental health? The study was needed because of the little attention paid in the past to the differences between different metrics of nature and how they impact mental health. Ekkel and de Vries (2017) do not mention any ethical clearance sought, which is a key weakness. Also, the authors make no mention of any conflict of interest nor ways used to address such conflicts. Nevertheless, the random sampling used in the selection of the articles to review is appropriate for the qualitative study design because it allows the authors to come with a wide array of scholarly sources. A thematic analysis used was appropriate for the study design because it allows the authors to group the information obtained into different themes.

A qualitative approach was appropriate because the research question that Ekkel and de Vries (2017) sought to answer could be best addressed via such an approach. Specifically, a determination of the factors that affect the effectiveness of green spaces in addressing mental through a review of different articles could be best done through a qualitative design. The setting for the study was selected to be an online search and review of articles, which makes it possible to have a wide range of scholarly studies. Additionally, the articles selected for review, which in this case are the participants, were selected randomly; thus, eliminating any likelihood of bias. The authors’ perspective was that nature would most likely affect mental health. However, such a perspective was eliminated by ensuring that they had an objective evaluation of different articles to establish whether they align or reject their perspective. The methods used were inclusion criteria for the articles to be reviewed. The method of ensuring that the articles were relevant and current was appropriate because Ekkel and de Vries (2017) could get current information about their topic of interest. A thematic data analysis technique was appropriate for the study design because it allowed for the information to be placed into different themes for easy analysis. Ekkel and de Vries (2017) did not use any quality control measures, which affects their research rigor. However, the findings contribute to practice because they provide the different metrics for access to urban green spaces, which should be considered by healthcare professionals to ensure optimal mental health outcomes.

Quantitative Study

The quantitative study to be evaluated for quality of evidence is Coppel and Wüstemann’s (2017) study, which sought to investigate the impact of green spaces on mental health in the Berlin area of Germany. The quantitative research design used in the study was appropriate because it ensured that the authors could get empirical results. The primary research question that Coppel and Wüstemann’s (2017) sought to answer is: What is the impact of various metrics of urban green spaces such as vicinity, spatial coverage, and distance on mental health outcomes? The study was needed because the existing research was incomplete in addressing the effects of spatial coverages of urban green spaces on mental health. However, despite the study using human subjects, there was no mention of ethical clearance. Additionally, Coppel and Wüstemann (2017) do not state the existence of any conflict of interests and how they addressed it. Nevertheless, the non-random sampling technique used was undesirable because it could lead to bias, which could affect the validity and reliability of the findings (Wu et al., 2016). The statistical analyses approach used such as regression statistics were appropriate in determining any relationships between the dependent and independent variables.

Coppel and Wüstemann (2017) presented their results adequately because they used not only various analyses but also tables, which helped in providing the readers with a better representation of the findings. The setting of study which is Berlin was selected based on the population of the city and the knowledge about the number of green spaces available. Additionally, the statistics were selected appropriately because a regression statistical analysis could show any correlation (Johnson, 2015). The statistics were majorly descriptive because the data analysis technique was used to summarize the data such that any patterns could be established. The researchers relied on their own judgment to non-randomly selected the participants. Specifically, Coppel and Wüstemann (2017) selected the participants based on web panels of two independent survey companies. As such, they were able to select the participants who they deemed to have met their inclusion criteria. Correlations were addressed because Coppel and Wüstemann (2017) determined how factors such as the quality of green spaces and the spatial coverage of the space were correlated with better mental health. The authors mentioned the possibility of bias arising from measurement error. The authors claim that the findings are useful for the Berlin residents who will use them to ensure that they have larger green spaces for ensuring improved mental health.

References

Barton, J., & Rogerson, M. (2017). The importance of greenspace for mental health. BJPsych International, 14(4), 79-81.

Coppel, G., & Wüstemann, H. (2017). The impact of urban green space on health in Berlin, Germany: Empirical findings and implications for urban planning. Landscape and Urban Planning, 167, 410-418.

Ekkel, E. D., & de Vries, S. (2017). Nearby green space and human health: Evaluating accessibility metrics. Landscape and urban planning, 157, 214-220.

Johnson, P. (2015). Evaluating qualitative research: Past, present, and future. Qualitative Research in Organizations and Management: An International Journal.

Kondo, M. C., Fluehr, J. M., McKeon, T., & Branas, C. C. (2018). Urban green space and its impact on human health. International journal of environmental research and public health, 15(3), 445

Van den Berg, M., van Poppel, M., van Kamp, I., Andrusaityte, S., Balseviciene, B., Cirach, M., ... & Maas, J. (2016). Visiting green space is associated with mental health and vitality: A cross-sectional study in four European cities. Health & place, 38, 8-15.

Wendelboe-Nelson, C., Kelly, S., Kennedy, M., & Cherrie, J. W. (2019). A scoping review mapping research on green space and associated mental health benefits. International journal of environmental research and public health, 16(12), 2081.

Wood, L., Hooper, P., Foster, S., & Bull, F. (2017). Public green spaces and positive mental health–investigating the relationship between access, quantity, and types of parks and mental wellbeing. Health & place, 48, 63-71.

Wu, Y. P., Thompson, D., Aroian, K. J., McQuaid, E. L., & Deatrick, J. A. (2016). Commentary: Writing and evaluating qualitative research reports. Journal of pediatric psychology, 41(5), 493-505.

Zhang, L., & Tan, P. Y. (2019). Associations between urban green spaces and health are dependent on the analytical scale and how urban green spaces are measured. International journal of environmental research and public health, 16(4), 578.

31

 Notorious financial criminals in contemporary and modern times 

QUESTION

Use the following links for your tasks

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-crime-samuel-israel/bayou-hedge-funds-samuel-israel-who-ran-big-ponzi-scheme-fails-to-win-freedom-idUSKBN1YD2E3

https://www.businessinsider.com/samuel-israel-the-ponzi-schemer-you-may-not-remember-2012-6

https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB112550792590328009

ANSWER

Samuel Israel Financial Crimes

Samuel Israel was a hedge fund manager frantic to prosper. Bayou Hedge Fund Group was created in 1996 by Israel as the CEO raised $450 million from its investors. Israel had plans of making money on short-term trades.  Israel embezzled these monies for personal use. In 1998, Bayou had financial problems, and Israel was willing to do anything, even breaking the law to guarantee Bayou's survival. Therefore, Israel sought his friend and partner, accountant Dan Marino's help (Stempel, 2019). These two devised a plan of concealing Bayou’s financial problems from the investors by creating their independent auditing firm operated by Dan Marino to audit themselves to maintain appearances to the investors. The fictitious public accounting company the two formed signed-off on the phony financial statements. Israel fraudulently enticed investors to invest and maintain millions of dollars in Bayou via a scheme of inappropriate actions and ongoing misrepresentations and exclusions concerning the business practices and monetary results, functions, and status of Bayou (Cantrell, 2005). Israel and Marion illicitly pilfered and embezzled the monies the investors have assigned to them as financial investments (McDonald, 2005).

Israel reported false rates of return for the Bayou quarterly reports and sent those reports to the investors. Also, Israel reported individual investors exaggerated accumulated revenues in monthly reports and mailed them to investors. In 2005, Bayou suddenly shut down and failed to return investors' monies.  The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed a civil injunctive action against Israel and Marino for defrauding investors and misappropriating investor monies for their personal use. SEC is pursuing permanent injunctions for breach of the anti-fraud stipulations of the federal securities regulations against the two. In 2005 Bayou was charged, and on September 29, the CFTC filed criminal fraud allegations against Marion, Israel, and Bayou (Jeanne-Dugan and Spector, 2008). The following year, Bayou filed for Chapter eleven bankruptcy-court protection. On April 14, 2008, Israel was sentenced to twenty years in jail and directed to surrender $300 million after pleading culpable to conning investors in his bankrupt company.

References

McDonald, I. (September 1, 2005). Bayou Drained Accounts in '04 Of $161 Million. The Wall Street Journal. https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB112550792590328009

Cantrell, A, (September 29, 2005). "Bayou founder, CFO plead guilty to fraud." CNN/Money. https://money.cnn.com/2005/09/29/markets/bayou/index.htm

Jeanne-Dugan, I., and Spector, M. (July 3, 2008). After 23 Days, Fugitive Financier Surrenders. The Wall Street Journal. https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB121500889341623007

Stempel, J. (December 10, 2019). Bayou hedge fund's Samuel Israel, who ran big Ponzi scheme, fails to win freedom. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-crime-samuel-israel/bayou-hedge-funds-samuel-israel-who-ran-big-ponzi-scheme-fails-to-win-freedom-idUSKBN1YD2E3

32

Existing job announcement for new hires

QUESTION

Explain how the existing job announcement for new hires was effective in the past based on the theories and view of leadership through the 1990s. Be specific using examples from course materials and the existing job announcement.
Explain why the existing job announcement is no longer able to meet the needs of today's leaders. Support your explanation with examples of the language changes you would recommend to update the job announcement to be consistent with today's desired leadership characteristics.
Explain the differences between management and leadership and why it is important for LSN to understand the distinction.
Memorandum Set Up

ANSWER

Based on the contemporary evaluation on how the hiring of new employees has been taking place, it has come to our notice that the existing job announcement for new hires was effective in the past grounded on the report by the Life Science Nutraceuticals. The majority of employees have come to terms with the old leadership criteria with claims that leadership is the cornerstone in building a properly functioning organization.

 Inclusion of leadership skills alongside team building is important for leaders and managers when it comes to improving efficiency and management (Dhyani, Gairola, and Dimri. 2021) Absence of connection within the staff, vision and breakdown in communication are some of the reasons as to why leadership is sinking on the dead end.

In recent job announcements, the requirements are no longer meeting the needs of modern leaders. The major factor that attributes to this is that this organization has ceased to concentrate on individual’s leadership skills but on experiences and academic qualifications. I would therefore request some adjustments in recruitment criteria. For instance, proper communication, efficiency, reliability, and flexibility should be included as key qualifications.

Management and leadership are important factors in an organization and they must function simultaneously even though they don’t mean the same thing (McBain 2012). For LSN to function effectively, there should be a proper understanding of the differences between the two. Failure to involve the two becomes a loophole for poor performance and the fall of the organization. Leadership is the influencing of employees to achieve an objective by using coherent and cohesive means while management is the technique and the approach involved in improving the performance.

References

Dhyani, A., Gairola, V., & Dimri, R. P. (2021). Role and Importance of Leadership Skills in Hospitality Sector: An Exploratory Study of Hotels in Kumaon Region of Uttarakhand State. Psychology and Education Journal, 58(2), 8522-8529.

McBain et al (2012), The Business Benefits of Management and Leadership Development, CMI and Penna.

33

The Mistakes You Make in a Meeting’s First Milliseconds    

QUESTION

write a 200 word discussion on the wall street journal article https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-mistakes-you-make-in-a-meetings-first-milliseconds

ANSWER

The Mistakes You Make in a Meeting’s First Milliseconds

People have snap judgments on others when they first meet without understanding the characters of their encounters. In most cases, such judgments are based on biases made based on the physical outlook of individuals. Primarily, it usually turns out that first-time judgments people make on others are wrong (Shellenbarger, 2021). For instance, someone would trust an individual in the first few seconds because the individual resembles someone trustworthy he or she knows. The development of perception on people based on the first impression is irresistible. Thus, people are likely to make mistakes when they meet for a meeting, especially meetings involving negotiations. That is, it may make someone trust the wrong people and avoid the trustworthy people who are genuine business people. 

However, it is possible to control how people perceive you, especially in the early seconds of the encounter. Having a happy expression is likely to make the other person comfortable with you and consider you trustworthy. Primarily, it is important to keep a bright facial expression even when no one is looking (Shellenbarger, 2021). Being relaxed and confident is also a crucial technique to ensure a warm perception from others. Confidence is enhanced through warm greeting and adjusted posture. It is good to avoid putting one hand in the pocket while greeting, it is an indication of being rude, bossy, and controlling. The first impression determines the stereotypical perception people develop towards one another.  

References

Shellenbarger, S. (2021). The Mistakes You Make in a Meeting’s First Milliseconds. Retrieved 16 May 2021, from https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-mistakes-you-make-in-a-meetings-first-milliseconds-1517322312

34

Speech Analysis

QUESTION

Discuss  innovative ways to increase the sales of a product

ANSWER

Speech: Intellectual Stimulation and Inspirational

In the weekly catch up, mike enhances intellectual stimulation in George to enable him think of innovative ways to increase the sales of the product. He is evoking critical thinking on George. Mike can take the opportunity to explains the nature of the market as dynamic and suggests innovative ways of improving the product performance such as expanding into the new markets sales channels, and review the prices of the product. In so doing, mike acts as a mentor and an educator to George. Nonetheless, he provides necessary market analysis to challenge George to change his ways of doing things

Key words

Market analysis

Mentor

Educator

Inspirational

Through provision of update on the progress at the end of the month meeting, Mike confirms for everyone that everything is possible if innovative thinking and hard work is involved. He thanks them for the hard work to encourage them and make them understand that business growth and success is not a smooth journey, challenges are likely to rock the process. Besides, it is important to know that failing at some point is part of success since it opens eyes to more opportunities that we had not realized. He asks them to continue committing to focused work, especially on more innovative ways of improving the performance of a product in the market. In this meeting, Mike acts as a leader, a mentor, and a motivator. The act of providing feedback inspires followers based on the progress recorded. They learn to believe that they can achieve more and improve the general performance of the organization.

Key words

Progress

Feedback

Leader

References

Ungerman, O., Dedkova, J., & Gurinova, K. (2018). The impact of marketing innovation on the competitiveness of enterprises in the context of industry 4.0. Journal of Competitiveness, 10(2), 132.

35

Countries’ economic recovery

QUESTION

 What is your opinion of the prospective state of this country's economy given the system of controls put into place over the next 10 years if they have recently done away with controls or explain what has happened in that country after controls were dismantled if they have been dismantled for several years already? --What recommendations would you make for this country's economic recovery given what you have learned over the span of this course from previous countries' experiences? Looking forward to seeing your work!

These are three we article links on the country’s current use of price/wage controls (If you need more information you can look into others website)

https://journals.openedition.org/chinaperspectives/3063
https://www.china-briefing.com/news/minimum-wages-china-2021/
https://www.ft.com/content/a49d39f4-f17b-11df-8609-00144feab49a

ANSWER

China has remained one of the World's socialist countries since 1949, and the country has nearly attained full accustomed price and wage control measures. The government of China plays a predominant role in the economy by setting up prices and wages from different perspectives. In China’s industrial economy, the large sector is under governments control for prices and wages. Although the proportion of industrial price control has declined due to globalization, significant urban sector prices have remained controlled by the government. Prices of the critical commodities are controlled and set by the Chinese government, and they also determine the distribution levels substantially. Hence, foreign trade systems have taken a monopolistic direction in the Chinese market, therefore price control measures.

China dominates the global market at 70% for electronic goods, 50% for shoes, cameras, bikes and telephones (Perkins, Dwight, and Thomas, 2008). It also dominates more than a third of the world market for microwave ovens, air conditioners, computer monitors, luggage and coloured televisions. Additionally, it has a significant influence on washing machines, underwears, jeans, refrigerators and jeans. The country is doing excellently economically compared to other developing and developed countries. The types of price/wage controls practised in China have included setting up of price ceiling, setting up minimum prices, and adjusting to any economic situations that arise intending to control trade patterns in the country. Having attained the development thresholds in the world's economy, China obligated herself to use price control measures to regulate prices and wages for significant goods and services (Whalley, John, and Shunming, 2004).

The price control actions taken were; setting up maximum prices that can reduce the cost of food to make it more affordable to all people irrespective of their financial status, but the major threatening factor is that maximum price may lead to lower supply and a shortage. Minimum price legislations such that the minimum prices can push upwards the price producers receive. These are applicable in farm produce and raises the farmer's income. On the other hand, minimum prices lead to oversupply, which implies that the government has to procure the surplus from the producers whether they need it or for whatever cause. Food prices during the control period were unstable. The price of goods was set to a specific range and goods rationed. However, this encouraged people to sell on the black market through inflated prices. These led to China developing a policy to control the prices to protect the consumers from exploitation by the producers.

Economists argued that if prices were set independently by market forces, it would be just the wealthy who could afford to go to games. The disadvantage is that some who want to go to the game cannot because there is a shortage of tickets. The government had to set a maximum price for renting to keep housing affordable. This was accelerated by the increasing population in china that is reciprocated by an increase in demand for shelter. However, a maximum price led to a reduction in housing supply, leading to homelessness. Although landlords practice a monopoly and supply habits is very inelastic, the rent prices will be expensive for people to purchase. A maximum price will reduce the rental burden, thus reducing supply. The effectiveness of the exercise of control over the economy articulates a committed group of bureaucrats and a highly dedicated hierarchy of command, stretching from the leaders to the led individual enterprise. The Chinese Communist Party reserves the right to make broad economic priorities and policies. Still, the government apparatus headed by the State Council assumes the primary burden of running the economy. The State Planning Commission and the Ministry of Finance are also concerned with virtually the entire economy. Today, the Chinese market prices are not entirely under the control of the government. There have erupted high levels of competition that has affected the control measures through cartels aimed to promote international trade, allowing countries to leave the forces of demand and supply to take their effectiveness in the market.

Today China has cut the number of items subject to price restrictions by nearly 30 per cent in a revised government pricing catalogue released from the government ministry of economic planning. The new list of essential items is no longer subject to price controls, such as some railway and air travel tickets, compared with the previous restriction imposed in 2015; these were done through China's National Development and Reform Commission (Liu et al., 2020). The new freedom of trade removed the initial offer and final sales prices of electricity and natural gas, opening them to market forces, but still keeps midstream transmission and distribution prices for government supervision. These items’ prices will be determined by the forces of demand and supply, including goods and services in public utilities, public welfare services and network-based natural monopoly goods. Table 1 below shows the current prices/wages after removal of restrictions; (Extracted from an Online Economy Journal; https://www.china-briefing.com/news/minimum-wages-china-2021/).

Table 1.

A person working in China typically earns around 29,300 CNY per month after the wage control bill. Salaries range from 7,410 CNY (lowest average) to 131,000 CNY (highest standard, the actual maximum wage is higher). The wages are relatively higher than in the era of price controls (Liu et al., 2020).

This study noted substantial impacts of removing price controls in China’s market, which affects some of the key market players. If not followed up, these trends will restrain the economy from reflecting that of the developing countries in the next 10 years (Whalley, John, and Shunming, 2011). For example, the market segment controlled by the small independent producers may close down or shrink; they were enjoying the benefits of regulations while exploiting the consumers. Some situations will affect the highly concentrated markets because they fear the equal distribution of available client base in the competitive environment, such as the Chinese natural-gas upstream and midstream sectors, which are the leading suppliers of gas products in the country. The dominant partners with riches of resources can undermine the implementation of reform initiatives (such as pricing reforms) to counter their interests which are majorly profit maximization, without considering the burden on the consumers.

The trends that have faced China after the removal of price control measures have broad such that in the end, rent and housing controls price ceilings often will result in hurting some of the people the government thought would benefit. Many low-income class people will have trouble finding affordable houses to rent. Ironically, some of those who will discover affordable residents may end up paying double more than they would have paid in the absence of rent price control. In this matter, many of the people that the rent controls do help are primarily present occupants, regardless of their income, and those lucky enough to find the premises are not those they are intended to help (the poor) (Bian, Timothy, and Pedro, 2015). A more direct means of helping poor tenants in china, one that would best fit without interfering with the functioning economy, would be to provide them with incentives or subsidize their incomes. These may have links with price floors, interfering with the market operations and mechanism may solve one problem, but this eventually leads to many other challenges to the wealthy people in the economy. Accordingly, this study recommends that “pricing and reimbursement schemes effected must strike a balance between promoting innovation and education in all market segments to keep the economy growing at a balanced rate

In an unregulated market, wealthy business heads and tycoons take advantage of organizing monopoly powers that raise the cost of products, hence limit infrastructural developments. Without price regulations, wealth cartels can influence the negative externalities without a source to exploit the poor. Diminished resources, less trade and stiffed developments reduce beneficial market effects; therefore, the government should take part in regulating these issues. Other important goals are promoted through price restriction in the market, although they may not be felt directly by sellers and buyers severely affect the state. These are national goals like promoting the military to protect citizens, causing improved country’s security and acting as a national pride for economically growing countries like china today, hence requiring the government to control some of the market prices if not all.

Bibliography

Bian, Timothy Yang, and Pedro Gete. "What drives housing dynamics in China? A sign restrictions VAR approach." Journal of Macroeconomics 46 (2015): 96-112.

Journal on minimum wages in China, https://www.china-briefing.com/news/minimum-wages-china-2021/ [Accessed on 9.5.2021]

Journal on world economic developments https://www.ft.com/content/a49d39f4-f17b-11df-8609-00144feab49a [Accessed on 9.5.2021]

Liu, Feiqi, Fuquan Zhao, Zongwei Liu, and Han Hao. "The impact of purchase restriction policy on car ownership in china’s four major cities." Journal of advanced transportation 2020 (2020).

Perkins, Dwight H., and Thomas G. Rawski. "Forecasting China’s economic growth to 2025." China’s great economic transformation (2008): 829-86.

Whalley, John, and Shunming Zhang. "A numerical simulation analysis of (Hukou) labour mobility restrictions in China." In China's Integration Into The World Economy, pp. 295-324. 2011.

Whalley, John, and Shunming Zhang. Inequality change in China and (Hukou) labour mobility restrictions. No. w10683. National Bureau of Economic Research, 2004.

36

Challenges with teams that are not in the same location

QUESTION

(A) What are some of the challenges with teams that are not in the same location?

(B) Describe the ways PM can improve communications with geographically diverse teams.

(C) Which method(s) do you think might be most effective and why?

short paragraphs is enough for each question. I have attached the articles

ANSWER

Geographically Diverse Teams

Geographical diverse teams are virtual groups and mainly collaborate with electronic communications as they are situated in different geographical regions. Effective management of virtual teams is vital to enhance maximum performance –which is essential in a competitive environment. Virtual teams experience many challenges because they are in different locations, and face-to-face communication is rare. However, project managers can implement strategies that will improve communication between the virtual teams.

1. Challenges Faced by Virtual Teams

Different Time Zones

One of the challenges of geographically diverse teams with a global range-over work is managing the different time zones (Pitagorsky, 2007). Setting up integrated conferences will be difficult as some team members might have to be awake at night to attend the meeting; thus, coordinating projects to meet the target dates will be challenging, leading to delays.

Technological Challenges

Technological challenges such as poor network connections and unreliable phone services might cause delays in the target date. A weak network connection is caused when a network lacks the capacity for a stable signal; thus, poor video qualities during zoom meetings cause conferences to be postponed. The weak network connection will hinder the virtual teams from attaining their targeted objective.

Lack of Bonding among the Teammates

Bonding among teammates is more developed in face-to-face scenarios; thus, it is a challenge to bond with teammates in geographically diverse teams, causing mistrust and poor cooperation.

1. Project Managers should Use the Following Strategies to Enhance Communication in Geographically Diverse Teams

Developing Fun Communication

To enhance bonding among virtual teams, project managers should implement fun communication to not miss out on some social exposures of going into an office. Through fun communication, the project manager can start a get -to -know each -other game and set a platform like Team Member Spotlight for team members to share their personal information (Christie, 2017).

Facilitating Effective Communication through Listening Skills

Project managers should ensure effective communication among the virtual teams to improve cooperation and the project's success (Christie, 2017). Virtual meetings are facilitated mainly by electronic communication; thus, to ensure effective communication, the project manager should first listen and speak after to avoid making assumptions and misunderstandings.

1. The Most Effective Communication Strategy for Project Managers

Developing fun communication will be the most effective communication strategy for project managers. The main aim of teams is to work together to attain a particular goal. Thus, without the bonding of teammates, there will be no trust and cooperation, leading to the project's failure.

In summary, virtual teams experience many challenges because they are in different locations, and face-to-face communication is rare. However, project managers can implement strategies that will improve communication between the virtual teams. Some of the challenges include weak network connections, operating in different time zones, and a lack of bonding among teammates. Ways that project managers can enhance virtual teams' communication is by developing fun communication and exercising listening skills to avoid misunderstandings.

References

Christie, K. (2017). 3 Ways to Improve Interpersonal Communication in a Virtual World. Projectmanagement.com. https://www.projectmanagement.com/contentPages/article.cfm?ID=413105&thisPageURL=/articles/413105/3-Ways-to-Improve-Interpersonal-Communication-in-a-Virtual-World#_=_

Pitagorsky, G. (2007). Managing virtual teams for high performance. Paper presented at PMI® Global Congress 2007—North America, Atlanta, GA. Newtown Square, PA: Project Management Institute. https://www.pmi.org/learning/library/managing-virtual-teams-high-performance-7310

37

Credit risk

QUETION

Pick a listed company and conduct the credit risk analysis by using the Five Cs and Altman Zscore.

ANSWER

Credit Risk Analysis

Credit risk analysis is a financial analysis performed by credit analyst to determine the potential of borrowers in fulfilling their debt obligation. The main aim of credit analysis is to ascertain the credit worthiness of any potential borrowers and their capacity to comply with the underlying debt obligations. If a borrower happens to avail the recommended level of the default risk, an analyst may approve the application of credit at agreed terms and conditions. As a result, credit risk analysis is useful in determining the risk rating that a borrower may be subjected to as per their ability to receive credit. Credit analysis is performed in consideration of the Five Cs that is; character, capacity, condition, capital, and collateral. As such, the credit risk analysis of New Oriented Education and Technology Group Inc. (New Oriental) is analyzed.

Character

The first school of the New Oriental Education and Technology Group Inc. was established by the executive chairman, Mr. Michael Minhong Yu, in Beijing, China in the year 1993 purposely to provide test preparation courses for college students TOEFL. New Oriental China was established in the year 2001 to be a domestic holding company that acted as a sponsor of many schools. From its inception, the company has facilitated foreign investment through establishment of an offshore company, New Oriental in August 2004 in the British Virgin Islands. On 2006 January, the change of offshore holding company’s corporate domicile to Cayman Islands was approved by the shareholders upon registration with Registrar of Companies of the Cayman Islands making the company to be fully named Cayman Islands Company. Moreover, according to Yhip and Alagheband (2020), the Five Cs of the credit risk analysis the character of a borrower is instrumental to financial organizations since it creates confidence and trust based needed to give financial assistance like loans. As a result, lenders should know the borrowers and guarantors level of integrity before undertaking a loaning process.

Capacity (Cash Flow)

New Oriental has a consolidated financial data with detailed operational report from May 31 2018, 2019, and 2020. The financial data has also been included in the annual report with a consolidated statement of the operational data that represents the fiscal years that ended May31, 2016 and 2017. Additionally, Disemadi (2019) argued that, capacity (Cash Flow) in the credit analysis of an organization depicts the level of cash flow that can be used to determine whether a lender qualified for a loan. In this regard, the provision of a financial statement is significant in evaluating borrower’s reliability. Moreover, the total net revenues, total operation cost and expenses, operating income, income taxes, and the net income of the Net Orient have been illustrated in the Fig1 below from the year 2016 to 2020.

Fig 1. A consolidated financial data of New Oriental

Condition

New Oriental has benefited greatly from reliable demographic trend that involves the demand to have quality education in China and economic growth. As a result, New Oriental is committed to elevate private educational services in China through; increasing employment opportunities and education that require specific qualifications beyond the existing school curriculums, promoting urbanization and population growth with a disposable income per capita, and the increase in the adoption of technological innovation. However, any diverse change that may be realized on the economic conditions in China is likely to cause a diverse effect on the private educational industry in China.

The number of the enrollment of students is depended upon the courses and the ability to maintain the quality and consistency of the teaching modalities. As such, the future operations are depended upon the chances to increase both offline and online student enrollment in China. The operating costs and expenses of this company consisted of the cost of the revenues, marketing and selling expenses and the general and administrative expenses.

Capital

In October 2018, New Oriental initiated a share purchase program with an aggregate value of US$200 million. Under such programs, shares purchase of 952000 ADSs was purchased for about US$56 million on open market. The same shares weighed an average purchase price of about US$58.78 per ADS. As an illustration by Bazarbash (2019), the capital of any organization as per the Five Cs of the credit cost analysis is a reflection the investment and the intended investment programs. As such, capital is an indication that the company may be ready to take risk of borrowing money. In July 2020 there was a completion in offering of US$300 million as an aggregate principal that amounted to about 2.125% notes that are to be due in 2025. US$271.1 million was received after offering 2025 notes after the deduction of commissions, joint book runners, and approximated offering expenses.

Collaterals

New Oriental has US$25.1 billion of the market capitalization. From the start of the year 2020, the company gains were 30.98% while as of April 2021 the stock was closed at US$14.74 per every share. The net revenue as from 2018, 2019, and 2020 was US$2,477.4 million, US$3,096.5 million, and US$3,578.7 million in that order. Furthermore, revenues are the net refunds, related surcharges, and business taxes. As such, services from different education program like language trainings, test preparations, and books provision are the sources of revenue. As well, according to Manurung and Manurung (2019), collateral play an integral role during the lending agreement by acting as a borrower’s pledge in order to secure a repayable loan.  An illustration of the above operational cost and expenses has been provided in Fig 2.

Fig 2. The illustration of Operating Cost and Expenses

References

Bazarbash, M. (2019). Fintech in financial inclusion: machine learning applications in assessing credit risk. https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3404066

Disemadi, H. S. (2019). Risk Management In The Provision Of People’s Business Credit As Implementation Of Prudential Principles. Diponegoro Law Review, 4(2), 194-208. https://ejournal.undip.ac.id/index.php/dlr/article/view/24904

Manurung, E. T., & Manurung, E. M. (2019). A new approach of bank credit assessment for SMEs. Academy of Accounting and Financial Studies Journal, 23(3), 1-13. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Elvy_Manurung/publication/334670926_

Yhip, T. M., & Alagheband, B. M. (2020). Credit Analysis and Credit Management. In The Practice of Lending (pp. 3-46). Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-32197-0_1 

38

Treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

QUESTION

Katie Peterson, an 18-year-old female, has been referred to you by her primary care provider for recommendations and treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Throughout childhood and adolescence, Katie’s support has not been consistent in managing her ASD, and her parents are seeking a PMHNP to address Katie’s anxiety, frequent temper outbursts, and increasing difficulties interacting with her peers throughout the day.
Her medical history includes seizures since the age of 11 months. A baseline SPECT scan revealed overactivity in the basal ganglia and marked increased patchy uptake throughout her cerebral cortex.During her psychiatric interview, you observe Katie with repetitive behaviors and poor eye contact. At one point, she turns the lights on and off repetitively for several minutes before she can sit down to complete her evaluation.

You start the interview with her dad present.

From your perspective as Katie’s psychiatric nurse practitioner, answer the following questions in a two- to three-page double-spaced paper (not including the reference page) in APA format. Include at least three peer-reviewed, evidence-based references.

Confirm Katie’s diagnosis (SHE'S AUTISTIC)based on the information you have been given. Discuss the importance of the baseline SPECT scan.
Outline the types of resources you would recommend to help Katie function better.
What, if any, medications could help Katie improve her mood swings and anxiety? Provide rationale.
List two types of psychotherapy and a rationale that would help Katie. Explain why these psychotherapies are significant to your evaluation or diagnosis.

ANSWER

Katie's Dad's Transcript

Dad: Katie has been getting more frequently restless and irritable at home. Her teachers report this behavior at school, too. This causes problems there and has made it hard for her to make friends. And maintaining the few friends she has. She has the skills to navigate social interactions, generally. But on the other hand, she is often inappropriate by approaching strangers and asking their name and age.

Her teachers report Katie having trouble more days than not, especially in her morning classes. Her problems often result in incomplete assignments even when she's capable of doing them. When she is calm, she can sit by herself to complete work. But she often will make loud spontaneous noises, disturbing others.

39

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and sustainability    

QUESTION

The Assessment Task
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability are increasingly seen as critical issues of corporate governance and for board of directors’ decision-making. In addition, addressing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues have become a critical part of strategic decision-making (Lokuwaduge & Heenetigala, 2017). Simultaneously, there has been an increase in concerns regarding boards of directors ensuring organisational long-term value creation (Gabrielsson, Calabro & Huse, 2016; Kakabadze, Goyal & Kakabadze, 2018; Veldman, 2019). Consequently, there has been greater pressure on organisations to enhance their reporting on CSR, Sustainability, and ESG.
Your task is to review the theoretical, regulatory, and empirical literature on CSR, Sustainability, and ESG reporting across the globe to critically assess the extent to which such reporting is enhancing long-term value creation in organisations. Your essay should be structured as follows
Introduction – in here you should provide a background to the question, an outline of the aims of the essay, and an overview of the rest of the essay (approximately 300-350 words)
Main Body – here you should put together an argument that includes the following three sections. (1) A review of the theories behind CSR, ESG, and sustainability; (2) a review of national and international regulatory requirements of ESG reporting; and (3) a review of the empirical literature on CSR, Sustainability, and ESG reporting to address the question. Critically assess the extent to which such reporting is enhancing long-term value creation in organisations. (approximately 1300-1400 words)
Conclusion – here you should provide a summary of the main points and answer the aims you set out in the introduction. In the conclusion, you should also include recommendations on what regulatory authorities and board of directors should do on CSR, Sustainability, and ESG reporting to ensure long-term value creation. (approximately 400-450 words)

ANSWER

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY

Introduction

In this study we are going to investigate the issue of corporate governance on the extent of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability. It is in the public domain that economic result is not the only way at which firms are valued, there are other outcomes that should be considered like social and environmental outcomes (Pamies 2015) mainly because corporate social performance is increasingly perceived as a competitive advantage for firms (McWilliams, Siegel & Wright 2016). Research suggests that corporate social performance of a firm contributes highly to the financial performance because stakeholders of a firm are not only interested in the financial aspect, but also on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) aspects (Campanella, Derhy, & Gangi 2019). Currently, the most important thing in business is sustainable growth that has made the issue of environmental, social, and governance the most important key indicator of management competence, risk management, and nonfinancial performance (Galbreath 2013). It is against this backdrop that this paper investigates how some corporate governance variables affect the environmental, social, and governance disclosure by firms. This paper aims at answering the question, ‘Is there a relationship between board diversity and environmental, social, and governance disclosure?” This study will contribute in providing evidence about governance and corporate characteristics of the firm which directly affect the environment, social, and governance disclosure with an aim of improving the development of corporate social responsibility and sustainability disclosure guidelines.

Theories behind CSR, ESG, and sustainability

There are a number of theories about ESG, CSR, and sustainability among which include the stakeholder theory, the business ethics theory, and the stakeholder theory. According to the stakeholder theory, social responsibility activities and disclosure provides an opportunity to demonstrate an organizations effort toward sustainability, and thus, the company is perceived as trustworthy. Several studies have evidenced that firms’ choices regarding CSR/ESG activities are mainly associated with the demographic of the corporate leaders’ (Borghesi, Houston, & Naranjo 2014).

Second is the business ethics theory that is largely based upon wider social responsibility and the ethical obligation that businesses have towards the society (Campanella, Derhy & Gangi 2019). The theory focuses on three areas: emerging and changing social expectations and social responsiveness to specific social challenges, intrinsic or eternal ethical values often motivated by Kantian ethics; and corporate citizenship (Cronqvist & Yu 2017). Another theory about ESG, SCR, and sustainability is the shareholder value theory, which asserts that the only social responsibility of any business is to develop their profits while observing legal standards and norms (Campanella, Derhy & Gangi 2019).

From the three theories highlighted above, CSR, ESG, and sustainability are composed of four responsibilities. First, is that CSR, ESG, and sustainability of any business is economic obligation of money making. Borghesi, Houston and Naranjo (2014) reason that businesses that do not make profits are doomed to perish. Without profit-making, there is no business as well as business ethics, implying no sustainability of businesses. Similarly, there is the legal obligation to observe regulations and rules about SCR, ESG, and sustainability. There is also the ethical responsibility associated with CSR, ESG, and sustainability of businesses. According to Galbreath (2013), ethical responsibility implies doing what is right regardless of whether it is required by the spirit and letter of the law. There is also the philanthropic obligation associated with the CSR, ESG, and sustainability. Cronqvist and Yu (2017) explain that philanthropic obligation to contribute to projects by societies even when business establishments are independent.

Taken combinedly, the four highlighted obligations are decreasingly pressing in CSR, ESG and sustainability. At the intersection between economics and ethics, sustainability implies the long-term sustenance of balance. According to Hegde and Mishra (2019), economic sustainability treasures long-term monetary solidity over volatile and short-term profits regardless of how high. Li et al. (2018) explain that, in accordance with the triple-bottom approach, large companies have an obligation to develop business plans allowing prolonged and stable actions. Whereas it is true that hypothetical ventures may result in windfalls, they may equally result in collapse. Therefore, sustainability implies valuing business plans that may not result in quick riches, but that which equally avoid calamitous losses. Companies attempting to get away with contaminating the environment or other aspects of the atmosphere may be increasing their bottom line within the short-term period by saving disposal costs. Nonetheless, these strategies may prove risk in the long run. 

Social sustainability as an aspect of CSR and ESG. Organizations promoting fair-trade ask business establishment to warrant that suppliers within impoverished countries receive justifiable payment for the services and goods even when the raw economic principles of demand and supply do not require it (Campanella, Derhy & Gangi 2019). Hegde and Mishra (2019) argue that social sustainability does not only end with dollars, but it needs human respect. Social responsibility requires companies as citizens with a particular community of people to uphold a healthy association with individuals.

Similarly, Borghesi, Houston and Naranjo (2014) reason that environmental sustainability starts from the assurance that natural resources are limited such that if they continue deteriorating, the next generation will not have the same quality of resources that we enjoy currently. As such, CSR, ESG, and sustainability theories contend that organizations must minimize the contaminants they release into the environment. According to the stakeholder theory, a firm’s purpose is to optimize profit upon a collective bottom line with profit being defined not entirely as money but the welfare of human being (Galbreath 2013). Organizations’ managers are largely charged not with the duty of representing shareholders’ interests, but with the social duty of coordinating all stakeholders’ interests, optimizing the sum benefits over the long and medium terms and during cases of conflicts (McWilliams, Siegel & Wright 2016). Thus, in most cases, transparency is a crucial value for individuals promoting stakeholder ethics.

National and International Regulatory Requirements of ESG Reporting

CSR consists of aspects such as ethics, governance, transparency, business relationships, financial return, community involvement, product value, employment practices and environmental protection. Hegde and Mishra (2019), therefore, reason that profit maximization should not be the sole objective of commercial organizations. Instead, organizations need to acknowledge the requirements of their internal and external stakeholders and should implement their business strategies in an ethically acceptable and socially responsible manner (Cronqvist & Yu 2017). Various regulatory measures have, therefore, been instituted for ESG reporting. In the United States (US), the most dominant ESG reporting standard is the United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investments (UNPRI). Launched in 2006, the reporting standard provides six principles along with a menu of probably reactions to accommodate ESG standards into individuals, companies and organizations’ investment practices across their asset classes (Li et al. 2018). There is also the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) that has standards for at least 77 sectors with qualitative and quantitative reporting items. Distinctly, the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosure (TCFD), according to Pamies (2015), has developed several recommendations for climate-associated metrics, targets and risk management for reporting firms to disclose. As a result of the increasing investor demand, there is a rising number of firms incorporating all or some of the metrics in different reports that they share to the public.

Galbreath (2013) states that ESG disclosure standards are in use in the European Union (EU) jurisdiction, with the European Union Commission seeking to further develop in in recent years. The EU, as part of its action Plan for Sustainable Finance, has ratified an ESG-associated Disclosure Regulation and the EU Parliament adopted the text regarding a Taxonomy Regulation. The two are designed to form the fundamental pillars of the region’s new sustainability structure. Along with several other, the Disclosure Regulation has the ability of impacting the US monetary establishments in several ways. These may include controlling affiliates or in certain cases where they trade financial products to the EU investors. Equally, there may be impacts upon US commercial firms as the EU investor community is seeking to collect the information needed for compliance with this current disclosure structure. McWilliams, Siegel and Wright 2016) explain that the Taxonomy Regulation is set to institute an EU-wide taxonomy on ecological sustainability, and will give both financial and corporate institutions a common language to recognize which undertakings and monetary tools may be regarded as sustainable ecologically. Pursuant to the Taxonomy Regulation, companies need to apply technical screening criteria to evaluate whether particular activities that are undertaken by investees contribute to climate change adaptation or to raise climate resilience.

In the United Kingdom (UK), there are moves to reform the ESG space. According to Borghesi, Houston and Naranjo (2014), the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has suggested new ESG standards of reporting. The new standards require commercial organizations that have premium listing to make climate associated disclosures consistent with set approach by the TCFD or justify why not (Li et al. 2018). The new standards are making companies to comply with the UK’s 2015 Occupational Pension Schemes Regulations that requires trustees to make open how they have regarded ESG, engagement, and stewardship in their investment strategy (Pamies 2015). Clearly, reforms are taking place across the globe with regard to ESG reporting.

Literature on CSR, Sustainability, and ESG Reporting

Campanella, Derhy and Gangi (2019) consider CSR as a strategic tool that involves profit-making business activities. Cronqvist and Yu (2017) investigated strategic CSR and its elements and found that strategic CSR produces economic benefits. The notion of strategic CSR is in line with the assumptions of instrumental stakeholder theory. This necessitates that organizations should adopt a strategic perspective to CSR, which involves identifying the most beneficial strategies for the organizations (Borghesi, Houston, & Naranjo 2014). Additionally, since companies cannot solve all the problems of the society, they should focus on the specific social issues which they can successfully handle and leave the remaining to other organizations which are capable of solving them (Hegde & Mishra 2019).

ESG issues are important for stakeholders. According to Cronqvist and Yu (2017), any party, including employees, customers, shareholders, the environment, the society, and investors, who might be affected by the business activities of organizations, should be considered as a stakeholder of an organization. According to stakeholder theory, stakeholders can be briefly defined as parties having an impact on or being affected by an organization (Pamies 2015). It is important that the interests of all stakeholders be taken into account and not only a select few (Campanella, Derhy, & Gangi 2019). Businesses use CSR as a strategic tool to create favourable stakeholder perceptions. In other words, CSR can ensure that stakeholders’ perceptions are not influenced negatively by activities which they might deem unsustainable (Li et al. 2018).

Given this stakeholder perspective to CSR, it is expected that considering the interests of stakeholders is associated with positive financial and economic performance (McWilliams, Siegel & Wright 2016). Although various studies analyzed the relationship between CSR and corporate financial performance, the findings are inconclusive (Li et al. 2018). In a study by Hegde and Mishra (2019), it was found out that companies differ in their degree of stakeholder orientation, which is reflected in the substantially addressed sustainability issues. Similarly, ESG disclosure is also likely to be more credible due to the more effective enforcement of ESG related rules and the stakeholder orientation to enhance this mechanism, which is very important to the growth and long-term profitability of the organization. The sustainability is a crucial element in the organization going hand in hand with the confidence level of the potential investors of the organization.

Conclusion

Previous studies have highlighted that depending on the published context, the focus of ESG disclosure changes. Consequently, the monitoring role of ESG disclosure has evolved into efficient and/or good corporate governance. Thus, corporate governance related goals and company size have been found to affect the quality and content of the ESG disclosure of companies. Similarly, the way of doing business is changing very rapidly. Accordingly, ESG disclosure has become a tool for creating value for shareholders, creditors, and the managers of companies, which has been attracting more and more attention from researchers and practitioners. It is also proven that practical contribution for companies by providing a model for them to use to evaluate stakeholders’ perceptions regarding the relationship between ESG disclosure and financial transparency. They can select the economic sector using a quantitative and objective method by applying this model to ESG category scores and financial or nonfinancial indicators. As can be understood from the results of this research, the content and focus for ESG disclosures are different from one sector to another, and stakeholder need to be reflected in the financial performance reports and financial transparency. Still, the transposition into practice by economic entities of ESG disclosures is done through solid strategic commitments in the form of sustainability reports, based on solid materiality matrices and establishing objectives relevant both for the entity and for the industry in which it operates. It has also been discussed that any organization that includes the ESG in the report has good opportunities of attracting the potential investors since investors will check on the transparence that is given by the organization and can also add in competitive advantage which may lead to a good reputation of the organization. It has also been demonstrated that a corporation cannot exist without its stakeholders, and it must therefore connect with its stakeholders, provide appropriate information, and address the needs of an extensive audience. The most recommendation addresses the need for legislative harmonization on nonfinancial information disclosure and reporting, specifically on ESG elements. This need also stems from legislative, stakeholder, and market pressures. In this sense, the ESG reporting reform along with the financial reporting standards reform started by the International Integrated Reporting Council (IIRC) plans on covering parts of the corporate sustainability expectation gap, with new and improved standards.

List of References

Borghesi, R, Houston, JF, & Naranjo, A 2014, ‘Corporate socially responsible investments: CEO altruism, reputation, and shareholder interests’, Journal of Corporate Finance, vol. 26, pp. 164–181.

Campanella, F, Derhy, A, & Gangi, F 2019, ‘Knowledge management and value creation in the post-crisis banking system’, Journal of Knowledge Management, vol. 23, no. 2, pp. 263–278.

Cronqvist, H, & Yu, F 2017, Shaped by their daughters: Executives, female socialization, and corporate social responsibility.’, Journal of Financial Economics, vol. 126, no. 3, pp. 543 – 562.

Galbreath, J 2013, ‘ESG in focus: The Australian evidence’, Journal of Business Ethics, vol. 118, no. 3, pp. 529–541.

Hegde, SP, & Mishra, DR 2019, Married CEOs and corporate social responsibility’, Journal of Corporate Finance, vol. 58, pp. 226–246.

Li, Y, Gong, M, Zhang, XY, & Koh, L 2018, ‘The impact of environmental, social, and governance disclosure on firm value: The role of CEO power’, Br. Account. Rev., pp. 50, 60–75.

McWilliams, A, Siegel, DS, & Wright, PM 2016, Corporate social responsibility: Strategic implications, ‘Journal of Management Studies, vol. 43, no. 1, pp. 1–18. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-6486.2006. 00580.x

Pamies, SD 2015, ‘The relationship between women directors and corporate social responsibility’, Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management, vol. 22, no. 6, pp. 334–345.

40

The Lucky Dragon – Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China    

QUESTION

ANSWER

The Lucky Dragon – Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China

It requires extensive research for a company to venture into the frenzy of international business. Although current global characteristics associated with the expansion and utilization of technology in business provide leverage for corporates in mergers and acquisitions, understanding the details of foreign laws and regulations, communication and cultural differences, political risks, supply chain complexity and risks of labor exploitation are imperative (Verbeke et al., 2019). There is a need for enterprises to consider all the possible outcomes before indulging in mergers and acquisitions. The presenting case scenario gives an excellent example of the necessity of adequately evaluating business feasibility when venturing into the international markets. Based on the case's observation, this essay supports option 3: The business is too foreign, too risky, and too fragmented to make it work. Sell it and admit that buying it was a mistake.

The success of the international business is vested in understanding and aligning to differences to cultural requirements. It is essential to understand that Anderson Products LLC's acquisition of the Lucky Dragon carries significant cultural ramifications. That can provide limitations in terms of how Anderson Products establishes itself in the Chinese market niche. Anderson Products may have challenges in trying to meet the cultural demands of customers in Hong Kong. The analysis of the case suggests the existence of significant differences between cultural values and norms between Hong Kong and the United States. For instance, in Hong Kong, the lower rating of individualistic culture is likely to hurt Anderson Products’ position. The fact that cultural values in Hong Kong value loyalty to groups implies that working with suppliers and customers will present challenges (Eliason et al., 2016). The culture does not allow deviations towards courses that promote optimal profitability, which will harm feasibility of the acquisition.

Foreign laws and regulations are deemed as significant impediments to businesses seeking to penetrate the international market. An enterprise needs to gain a comprehensive understanding of the local laws and regulations, ranging from tax implications to trading laws. Navigating the requisites of the law is imperative to the success of a firm. Considering Anderson Products’ position and the acquisition of the Lucky Dragon, several issues emerge in terms of how the company will navigate the relatively rigid regulations in Hong Kong. In this case, it is possible to establish a reference for possible difficulties in running the business in Hong Kong due to the influence of rigid mainland Chinese trade laws (Eliason et al., 2016). Although Hong ranks high in the Global Competitiveness Index, cultural dimensions of leadership that tilts towards the elderly are likely to hurt LLC venture into market. The elderly offer limitations in navigating the technology world and it will be important for LLC to engage the young people but the aspects of culture would offer barriers. It means LLC will find it challenging to leverage on technology with the investment at Lucky Dragon.

Issues stemming from corruption are critical in defining the scope and performance of a business. Based on evaluations in Hong Kong, it is for the best interest of Anderson Products to abandons Lucky Dragon. Ed observes that corruption is a significant obstacle in Hong Kong. This means that, for Anderson Products to survive in Hong Kong, it will have to contend with a culture of corruption, which can prove costly to the overall business performance (Eliason et al., 2016). As such, corruption will eat into the firm's profit and contribute to business unsustainable, supporting the idea of selling Lucky Dragon.

Reference

Eliason, R. G., Pargas, F. A., & Yankey, M. D. (2016). The Lucky Dragon 幸运的龙–Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China. Journal of Business Case Studies (JBCS), 12(1), 29-34.

Verbeke, A., Roberts, R. E., Delaney, D., Zámborský, P., Enderwick, P., & Nagar, S. (2019). Contemporary international business in the Asia-Pacific Region. Cambridge University Press.

41

' Why older Workers Work beyond the Retirement Age’

QUESTION

Write a critique on ' Why older Workers Work beyond the Retirement Age: a qualitative Study by Sewdas et al (2017 ) BMC Journal of Public Health Vol.17 (1) pp.1-9    

ANSWER

Article Critique: Why older Workers Work beyond the Retirement Age: A qualitative Study by Sewdas et al. (2017)

Abstract

This essay intends to critique Sewdas et al.’s (2017) Why older Workers Work beyond the Retirement Age: A qualitative. Sewdas et al.’s (2017) article aimed at: (i) understanding reasons why people work beyond statutory retirement age from the viewpoint of aged workers, and (ii) exploring how the Study on Transitions in Employment, Ability and Motivation (STREAM)’s domains can be applied to working past retirement age. The researchers employed a qualitative research design. Interview and focus group data collection techniques were employed with people aged beyond 65 years who were either self-employed or continued to work in paid employments. Interview respondents were recruited into the study using STREAM cohort research, while focus groups were recruited from employment agencies and firms. The study established that the main reasons why people work beyond retirement age are financial benefits and everyday routines. Flexible work arrangements and good health were noted as crucial preconditions. The study established that the themes arising from the classification of preconditions and motives corresponded to the work characteristics, health, knowledge and skills, financial and social factors from the STREAM framework. Additionally, the study found out that purpose in life was another theme.

Keywords: Employment participation, bridge employment, ageing, retirement, qualitative research

Article Critique: Why older Workers Work beyond the Retirement Age: A qualitative Study by Sewdas et al. (2017)

Introduction

According to Sewdas et al. (2017), in Western countries, the population is fast ageing as a result of lower rates of fertility, maturing baby boomers, and longer life expectancies, with studies projecting that the percentage of people aged 65+ years in Netherlands will attain 25% in 2040. In an attempt to minimize the effects of the ageing society upon Netherlands’ social security programs, the country’s government has been adopting reforms aimed at motivating aged employees to extend their working lives as reflected in the rise of the country’s statutory retirement age (Hofäcker and Naumann 2015).  Retirees’ level of benefit relies upon domestic situation, and the policy warrants 70% of an employee’s net minimum wage (Virtanen et al. 2017). Matthijs and Visser (2011) and Oude (2019) argue that financial and health situations, work motivation, work-associated factors (like work enjoyment and fulfilling jobs), social factors (like having children/dependents to support and having an employed spouse) influence the motivation behind extension of retirement age. Evidently, the decision to extend work involvement is multifactorial driven and not a single factor driven.

Purpose Statement

Sewdas et al.’s (2017) study aims at (i) understanding reasons why people work beyond statutory retirement age from the viewpoint of aged workers, and (ii) exploring how the Study on Transitions in Employment, Ability and Motivation (STREAM)’s domains can be applied to working past retirement age. While populations in Western countries continue to age and many aged individuals are working beyond their retirement age, just a few studies have employed qualitative research design to assess why older employees prolong their working life when receiving a pension (Lichtenthaler and Fischbach 2016). Similarly, Sewdas et al. (2017) note that there are no theoretical framework or model available that take care of all the above mentioned factors that explain why aged employees extend their work involvement past retirement age. Lately, the STREAM has been proposed to comprise intricate factors that influence employment transition and work productivity (Anxo, Ericson and Herbert 2019). STREAM suggests that changeovers in employment are affected by factors in five distinct domains: job characteristics, health, financial, knowledge and skills, and social factors (Hess 2018). Nevertheless, since there is no theoretical framework for working past retirement age is inexistent, it is crucial to assess how and if the STREAM’s domains can be adapted to this phenomenon. Thus, the study is justified.

Research Question(s)

The research question(s) are explicitly stated in the article by Sewdas et al. (2017). While explicitly labelled research questions are central to certain fields, Guest, MacQueen and Namey (2012) note that other fields do not require them. In the article by Sewdas et al. (2017), there is no mention of “research question,” a terminology used to give unambiguous signboard for an article’s purpose and thus enhance the article’s clarity. However, against the tradition Sewdas et al. (2017) other strategies to highlight their research questions. According to Golafshani (2003), research questions can be stated in terms of goals, aims, or hypotheses, or still describing a study’s objective without necessarily referring to it as an objective (like “this paper investigates/examines X”). In Sewdas et al.’s (2017) article, research questions and purpose statement are used interchangeably as supported by Hofäcker and Naumann (2015). Therefore, the study’s research questions are to: (i) understand reasons why people work beyond statutory retirement age from the viewpoint of aged workers, and (ii) explore how the Study on Transitions in Employment, Ability and Motivation (STREAM)’s domains can be applied to working past retirement age.

Ethics

As required, Sewdas et al.’s (2017) article observed a number of ethical issues. Before the commencement of interview, the interviewer did introduce themselves, informed the respondents regarding the study’s purpose, and assured the participants of confidentiality and anonymity. To ensure that the participants were not emotionally harmed for taking long, the interviewers ensured that the interview sessions lasted within 30 and 60 minutes. To the focus groups, written consent was obtained to allow the researchers record digitally the voices of the participants. Agreement of the focus group participants was also sought. Participation during the interview sessions and focus group meetings was voluntary and the respondents were at liberty to quit at any time.

Nevertheless, there is no mention of whether permission from local authorities and other authorities was sought. The researchers did not also assure the participants that the study’s findings would solely be used for the study and that the information will not be replicated, republished, or reproduced elsewhere.

Methods

The choice of interview and focus group techniques as the data collection tools was well thought of. Regarding the telephone semi-structured interview, the researcher provided room for flexibility to the interviews and gave them a response rate compared to mailed questions (Virtanen et al. 2017). The telephone interview also allows illiterate interviewees to answer questions. However, the interviewer lacked the opportunity of reading the interviewee’s non-verbal conducts (Matthijs and Visser 2011). Telephone interviews are costly and time consuming since it takes a lot of time to call each and every interviewee to get their responses (Oude 2019). Other challenges with the telephone interviews are that the respondent can misunderstand a question and respond wrongly, interviews can make unconscious mistakes, especially when the interviewee has some socially undesirable characteristics that they do not want to accept, and the respondent can deliberate lie, thus negatively affecting the quality of the research.

Similarly, the use of focus group technique was very instrumental in this study. As validator of the data that was gathered through interviews, focus group helped the researchers to surmount the limitations of the interview technique by allowing them an easy way to gauge participants’ non-verbal and verbal responses and helped them obtain valuable outcome (Polat et al. 2017). The data collection process is quickly with focus groups since a group of people are asked one question at a time and various responses gathered at once, thus it saves the researcher significant time (Lichtenthaler and Fischbach, 2016). However, focus group is prone to challenges such as lack of comprehensiveness on certain questions since some participants may be adamant to speak about sensitive topics and this may result in biasness (Anxo, Ericson and Herbert, 2019). Since just a fraction of participants is involved, the findings may not be representative of the whole target population. As such, the joint employment of the interview and focus group perfectly assisted in Sewdas et al.’s (2017) study since one technique covered the limitations of the other for better findings.

Findings

The study found a number of factors to be related with working post retirement. These included flexible working schedules, good health, having an employer who allows working past the retirement age, appreciation from clients or colleagues, a feeling of being responsible, skills and knowledge (like ability to pass on knowledge and skills, use of abilities, and learning new knowledge and skills), not desiring to sit at home, financial benefits (like higher standards of living and having to pay for some mortgage), and worries regarding their retirement life. The study’s findings are unequivocally comprehensive and insightful. The motivations for why people work way past their retirement were individually assessed to help determine their individual effects on people’s morale. The use of direct quotes strengthened the findings since the reader is allowed an opportunity into the mind of the interviewer’s mind. The itemization of the themes allows a reader to quickly glean the effect of each of factor on people’s motivation. Nonetheless, the researchers should have quantified the findings as opposed to just qualifying them using quotes. They should have at least compared the feeling of each interviewee and reported the percentage of people who may have seconded a particular factor as the reason for their post-retirement working. By quantifying the findings, the researchers would have supported their findings with figures, tables, charts or any other data presentation technique which would significantly role play in informing the understanding of the reader concerning the study.

Discussion

The article’s discussion is informative in a number of ways. The discussion juxtaposes the findings of the study and other studies regarding a particular theme, justifying the reason for a particular finding. For instance, regarding health, Sewdas et al. (2017) found out that good health is a precondition for working post retirement age. Similarly, Hess’ (2018) found out that maintaining mental and physical health, and keeping physically active are necessary for one to work past retirement. Nonetheless, the comparison is limited since it is done with very few articles, making it difficult to rely upon.

Further, while the article discusses how each factor contributes to working past the retirement age, there are assumptions that employed, making the study’s findings to be little reliable and valid. For instance, the researchers suppose that most participants preferred part-time working as opposed to full-time working since employees want to have a gratifying balance between relaxation and work in their individual lives (Guest, MacQueen and Namey 2012). Such assumptions do not auger well with research when there is a plethora of studies that have been done on the issue that would have provided substantive prof for the preference of part-time over full-time work schedules. 

The study’s findings were limited with regard to the STREAM approach that was employed. While the framework allowed the researchers to conduct targeted studies on factors that possibly influence working beyond retirement, there are other factors that are excluded by the framework, like purpose in life. The researchers, therefore, did good to slightly stretch past the framework to incorporate the purpose in life theme.

The researchers also convoluted the discussion section by including strengths and weaknesses of the study. In a well-organized work, the strengths and weaknesses of a paper should be covered under a separate heading. Nonetheless, the researchers did good to comprehensively discuss the limitations and strengths of their study.

Conclusion

The paper restates the objective of the study and summarizes the findings of the study as required. Similarly, the researchers state the significance of the study, noting that it would contribute to the development of work-associated interventions that would enhance extended working life for employees aged 65+ years. However, the conclusion does not provide gaps for further studies and his gives a false impression on the reliability and validity of the study. 

Suggestions for Further Research

For more robust findings, a similar study could be conducted with the number of women and men participants kept at balance and that the participants should be of better health. In the study by Sewdas et al. (2017), the number of women was limited besides the fact that the respondents were less healthy. As opposed to solely relying on semi-structured telephone interviews and focused group, there is a need for employment of other data collection techniques in future studies. Lastly, further research is needed for larger sample sizes.

Reliability

Questions about reliability emerge when analysing Sewdas et al.’s (2017) article. Like for any other qualitative research, the sample size is relatively small, making it difficult to transfer the study’s findings to other populations and situations. Nonetheless, the reliability of the study is enhanced by the fact that the study is credible; the study measures what it was intended for (Cypress 2017). The process that was used in conducting the study is also dependable, adding to the reliability of the study.  Lastly, the reliability of the study is buttressed by the fact that its findings are confirmable by other studies. The findings of the study are supported by other studies, thus, it is reliable.

Credibility

The study by Sewdas et al. (2017) meets a number of credibility measures. Through the use of focus group and interview techniques, the researchers were able to enhance the study’s response rate (Fitzpatrick 2019). Though the sample size is relatively small, it served the paper’s purpose. Secondary data sources were also used to back up the study, enhancing the paper’s richness in terms of facts. Similarly, the paper effectively measured its assertions by itemizing the element of the study and delving deep into details of the study (Rose and Johnson 2020). Lastly, while the sample size was relatively small, the findings can be generalized for an organization or a country.

Validity

Sewdas et al. (2017) tried to ensure the study’s findings were valid in various ways.  Using the focus group, the researchers aimed at validating the findings by exploring explanations that were gathered using the interview technique. The researchers tested initial outcomes with the interviewed participants to help determine if what was gathered was correct.  Additionally, the researchers sought alternative explanations for the findings, comparing their findings with what previous studies found. By excluding other factors, the researchers improved the strength of the study’s findings. Nonetheless, the quality of data that was gathered during the telephone and focus group sessions depended upon the type of moderator or interviewer that was involved (Moon 2019). Similarly, concerns ensue with the findings’ validity with respect to the sample size that was used. With the small sample size that Sewdas et al.’s (2017) study employed, there are very little room for generalizing the study’s findings.  

List of References

Anxo, D., Ericson, T. and Herbert, A., 2019. ‘Beyond retirement: who stays at work after the standard age of retirement?’ International Journal of Manpower, 40; 5, pp. 917-938. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJM-09-2017-0243

Cypress, B. S., 2017. ‘Rigor or Reliability and Validity in Qualitative Research: Perspectives, Strategies, Reconceptualization, and Recommendations’, Dimensions of Critical Care Nursing, 36; 4, pp. 253-263 doi: 10.1097/DCC.0000000000000253

Fitzpatrick, B., 2019. ‘Validity in qualitative health education research’, Currents in pharmacy teaching & learning, 11; 2, pp. 211-217.

Golafshani, N., 2003. ‘Understanding Reliability and Validity in Qualitative Research. The Qualitative Report, 8; 4, pp. 597-607.  http://www.nova.edu/ssss/QR/QR8-4/golafshani.pdf

Guest, G., MacQueen, K. M. and Namey, E. E., 2012. Validity and Reliability (Credibility and Dependability) in Qualitative Research and Data Analysis. In: Applied Thematic Analysis, Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications, Inc. pp. 79-106. Available at: <http://www.doi.org/10.4135/9781483384436> [Accessed 21 Feb 2021]

Hess, M., 2018. ‘Expected and preferred retirement age in Germany’, Z Gerontol Geriat, 51, pp. 98–104. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00391-016-1053-x

Hofäcker, D. and Naumann, E., 2015. ‘The emerging trend of work beyond retirement age in Germany. Z Gerontol Geriat, 48, pp. 473–479. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00391-014-0669-y

Lichtenthaler, P. W. and Fischbach, A., 2016. ‘Job crafting and motivation to continue working beyond retirement age’, Career Development International, 21; 5, pp. 477-497. https://doi.org/10.1108/CDI-01-2016-0009

Matthijs, B. P. and Visser, M. S., 2011. ‘When Are Teachers Motivated to Work Beyond Retirement Age? The Importance of Support, Change of Work Role and Money’, Educational Management Administration & Leadership, 39;5, pp. 590–602. doi: 10.1177/1741143211408448

Moon, M. D., 2019. ‘Triangulation: A Method to Increase Validity, Reliability, and Legitimation in Clinical Research’, Journal of emergency nursing, 45; 1, pp. 103–105. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jen.2018.11.004

Oude, M. J., 2019. ‘Attitudes About Working Beyond Normal Retirement Age: The Role of Mandatory Retirement’, J Aging Soc Policy, 31; 2, pp.106-122. doi: 10.1080/08959420.2018.1563473.

Polat, T., Bal, P. M. and Jansen, P. G. W., 2017. ‘How Do Development HR Practices Contribute to Employees’ Motivation to Continue Working Beyond Retirement Age?’ Work, Aging and Retirement, 3; 4, pp. 366–378, https://doi.org/10.1093/workar/wax007

Rose, J. and Johnson, C., 2020. ‘Contextualizing reliability and validity in qualitative research: toward more rigorous and trustworthy qualitative social science in leisure research’, Journal of Leisure Research, 51, pp. 432 - 451.

Sewdas, R., de Wind, A., van der Zwaan, L. G. et al., 2017. ‘Why older workers work beyond the retirement age: a qualitative study’, BMC Public Health, 17, pp. 672. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-017-4675-z

Virtanen, M., Oksanen, T., Pentti, J., Ervasti, J., Head, J., Stenholm, S., . . . Kivimäki, M., 2017. ‘Occupational class and working beyond the retirement age: A cohort study’, Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health, 43; 5, 426-435. http://www.jstor.org/stable/26386115

42

The characters in the Poe stories.

QUESTIONS

Then write an essay discussing the fact that Gregor is trapped in ways similar to the characters in the Poe stories. Discuss elements of family, work, society, and mental state that add to the trapped feeling that all these characters experience. Don't write in vague generalities. Write about concrete things that happen in the stories that feed your imagination and that are ripe for comparison in these various "nightmare" worlds. You are basically also discussing how life itself is sometimes like being trapped in a nightmare, something all these pieces suggest. YOU CAN MENTION THE "TRAPPED" FEELING WE'VE ALL EXPERIENCED IN THIS LONG 2020-2021 PANDEMIC!

ANSWER

Literature

Both Frank Kafka’s The Metamorphosis and Edgar Poe’s short stories describe how the characters are living in entrapped, terrible and miserable situations. The autobiographical aspects in the technology Metamorphosis propose that Kafka himself might have felt trapped by specific restraints in his own life. Kafka was alienated from Prague society where he was living as a German-Jew and likewise separated from his family. Kafka viewed his dad as impudent, overbearing and persistently critical of a son he did not comprehend. Likewise, Kafka was under profound pressure from his dad in his adulthood to venture into business. Thus, Kafka’s sentiments of entrapment by situations beyond his control resemble those of Gregor. An illustration of this scenario is illustrated when Gregor wakes up as an enormous, extremely disgusting bug.

 The Metamorphosis describes the protagonist, Gregor Samsa, who feels inferior that an insect toiling away at a dehumanizing job he dislikes. Gregor’s sentiments of being inferior than an insect attest themselves in his body as he realizes he is a giant insect. Gregor’s entirely sudden and unexplained transformation is compared with several really routine daily details of waking-up late and cleaning the house. Also, Gregor’s family is upset with him for being casual with his roles which signifies Kafka’s yearning to venture into a different profession. Indeed, Gregor’s dad’s conduct and his harsh treatment of Gregor as a bug might replicate how Kafka felt several times when his family misunderstood his passion and dreams.

 The Cask of Amontillado" and "The Tell-Tale Heart" by Edgar Poe illustrate the same pattern of nightmare where two characters like Gregor are imprisoned in situations they cannot control. Montresor capitalizes on Fortunato’s selfishness, his desire for Amontillado and his ultimate drunkenness to trap Fortunato into catacombs in "The Cask of Amontillado". Hence these catacombs become Fortunato’s grave as Montresor construct a wall that make it inescapable for Fortunato. The physical encounter of being wall-trapped resonates with Gregor’s physical encounter of getting entombed in a bug’s exoskeleton.

In "The Tell-Tale Heart," the killer-narrator is ensnared by his crumbling mental condition same as Gregor is ensnared by his estrangement. This can be comprehended plainly as a cockroach and metaphorically as a Jewish artist living his lifestyle in a society judgmental of him. Poe’s storyteller cannot dodge his misgiving on his homicide victim resided under the floorboards. The storyteller buried him there and this mistrust wins ultimately. The narrator yearns for liberty from the ensnare of his doing and ultimately, he admits to his wrongdoing. Sarcastically this incident will inexorably lead him to another type of trap of imprisonment or death. However, he is compassionately liberated from his fear of being caught. Likewise, Gregor’s demise has a same sense of reprieve from his encounter of being confined.

Kafka discloses more to Gregor’s transformation. Gregor’s transformation impacts the existence of his family and relationship. Likewise, his family changed and Gregor realized their potent to work. Both Kafka and Poe initiate the readers imaginations with dismaying circumstances that offer the reader motive to question themselves what they would do if they were ensnared in similar situations. Maybe the reader would likewise discover death as respite, an emotion condition which is a nightmare in it and of itself. Kafka and Poe help the reader in comprehending the power of the family and society support. the characters snare demonstrates a particular realism of human’s sentiments concerning being ensnared via this pandemic. People cannot hug or hang-out anymore because they are quarantined and are practicing social distance measures. The situation is more difficult for the elderly because they cannot get people to visit them and share memories that enliven their lives. Same as Gregor’s snare in his room walls notwithstanding living with his family mad him feel lonely and alienated.

Likewise, this pandemic is likened to this metamorphosis where people have lost loved ones, are unemployed, got furloughed and some are homeless because they cannot pay rent anymore as a result of job loss. Several people had to adjust their lifestyle to live in the present challenging circumstances. Kafka illustrates the various results for these misfortunes that engulf Gregor’s family. Gregor’s change pushes his family from their comfort zone. When Gregor’s family realized that he could not provide anymore, they began working to support one another as a family. Remote learning, lockdowns and pandemic doubt have increased unease and depression. The COVID-19 has transformed how people work, play and study. Schools have closed, sports leagues cancelled and several individuals asked to work from home. The good side of this pandemic is that people are appreciating the benefits that come with remote working and how technology is transforming working and school delivery methods.

43

The two Great Commissions by Sweazey and their differences    

QUESTION

Discuss the two Great Commissions by Sweazey and their differences    

ANSWER

Great Commissions

In Christianity the great commission is known as the instruction Jesus gave to his disciples after resurrection to spread the gospel to all nations of the world.  The most famous of great commission can be found in Mathew 28: 16-20 where Jesus called on his disciples to reach out to people baptize them in the name of the father, the son and the Holy Spirit.

The two great commissions that have been discussed by Sweazey are evangelism and discipleship. By definition, evangelism is the spread of the Christian gospel by personal witness or public preaching. On the other hand, discipleship is teaching biblical principles, while guiding and modeling others towards living virtuously as true followers of Jesus Christ. While both commissions are biblical concepts, they differ since they focus on separate levels of spiritual growth.

Mainly, evangelism is aimed at non-believers who want to learn more about God and live by the teachings of the Lord. Christians reach out to such individuals through evangelism to share the gospel and good news with the main aim to persuade them to follow Jesus.  In its simple understanding, evangelism is an action through which several individuals are brought to the initial acknowledgment and repentance of the need for God and to live as per the teachings of the Lord. On the other hand, discipleship is a long-term activity that involves mentoring and teaching believers along the path of faith to assist them espouse the likeness of Christ and live as per the teaching of the lord. Notably, discipleship goes beyond simple prayers of confession and conversion, it is a total life time commitment to God.  Therefore, Evangelism is classically used with nonbelievers, while discipleship is used for both unbelievers and the development of believers.

44

Mutations in live organisms

QUESTION

Discuss the novel technology for genome-editing a broad range of mutations in live organisms

ANSWER

A Novel Technology for Genome-Editing a Broad Range of Mutations in Live Organisms

In the article entitled “A Novel Technology for Genome-Editing a Broad Range of Mutations in Live Organisms: Scientists Develop a New Gene-Editing Tool That Could Help Treat Many Disorders Caused by Gene Mutations”, the researchers have established a novel tool known as SATI for editing the mouse genome, thereby enabling this team of researchers to target a wide range of cell types and mutations. According to Salk Institute (2019), SATI, which represents short for intercellular linearized Single homology Arm donor mediated intron-Targeting Integration, serves as an advancement or improvement of the former HITI technique to enable this tool to target extra genome areas.

The researchers manage to draw a link between normal DNA repair and genome-editing by employing techniques that modify DNA, particularly the CRISPR-Cas9 system in dividing cells in the gut and skin, using the normal repair mechanisms of such cells (Salk Institute, 2019). This development could be employed or applied in a range of gene mutation conditions like progeria or the rare premature syndrome of aging and Huntington’s disease (Salk Institute, 2019). In my view, another issue addressed in the article that should receive extra consideration is how the details associated with the cellular systems that take part in repairing DNA can be employed in refining novel genome editing technologies such as SATI for better correction of DNA.

References

Salk Institute. (2019 August 23, 2019). A Novel Technology for Genome-Editing a Broad Range of Mutations in Live Organisms: Scientists Develop a New Gene-Editing Tool That Could Help Treat Many Disorders Caused by Gene Mutations. ScienceDirect. Available at: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/08/190823182700.htm

45

Credit risk

QUETION

Pick a listed company and conduct the credit risk analysis by using the Five Cs and Altman Zscore.

ANSWER

Credit Risk Analysis

Credit risk analysis is a financial analysis performed by credit analyst to determine the potential of borrowers in fulfilling their debt obligation. The main aim of credit analysis is to ascertain the credit worthiness of any potential borrowers and their capacity to comply with the underlying debt obligations. If a borrower happens to avail the recommended level of the default risk, an analyst may approve the application of credit at agreed terms and conditions. As a result, credit risk analysis is useful in determining the risk rating that a borrower may be subjected to as per their ability to receive credit. Credit analysis is performed in consideration of the Five Cs that is; character, capacity, condition, capital, and collateral. As such, the credit risk analysis of New Oriented Education and Technology Group Inc. (New Oriental) is analyzed.

Character

The first school of the New Oriental Education and Technology Group Inc. was established by the executive chairman, Mr. Michael Minhong Yu, in Beijing, China in the year 1993 purposely to provide test preparation courses for college students TOEFL. New Oriental China was established in the year 2001 to be a domestic holding company that acted as a sponsor of many schools. From its inception, the company has facilitated foreign investment through establishment of an offshore company, New Oriental in August 2004 in the British Virgin Islands. On 2006 January, the change of offshore holding company’s corporate domicile to Cayman Islands was approved by the shareholders upon registration with Registrar of Companies of the Cayman Islands making the company to be fully named Cayman Islands Company. Moreover, according to Yhip and Alagheband (2020), the Five Cs of the credit risk analysis the character of a borrower is instrumental to financial organizations since it creates confidence and trust based needed to give financial assistance like loans. As a result, lenders should know the borrowers and guarantors level of integrity before undertaking a loaning process.

Capacity (Cash Flow)

New Oriental has a consolidated financial data with detailed operational report from May 31 2018, 2019, and 2020. The financial data has also been included in the annual report with a consolidated statement of the operational data that represents the fiscal years that ended May31, 2016 and 2017. Additionally, Disemadi (2019) argued that, capacity (Cash Flow) in the credit analysis of an organization depicts the level of cash flow that can be used to determine whether a lender qualified for a loan. In this regard, the provision of a financial statement is significant in evaluating borrower’s reliability. Moreover, the total net revenues, total operation cost and expenses, operating income, income taxes, and the net income of the Net Orient have been illustrated in the Fig1 below from the year 2016 to 2020.

Fig 1. A consolidated financial data of New Oriental

Condition

New Oriental has benefited greatly from reliable demographic trend that involves the demand to have quality education in China and economic growth. As a result, New Oriental is committed to elevate private educational services in China through; increasing employment opportunities and education that require specific qualifications beyond the existing school curriculums, promoting urbanization and population growth with a disposable income per capita, and the increase in the adoption of technological innovation. However, any diverse change that may be realized on the economic conditions in China is likely to cause a diverse effect on the private educational industry in China.

The number of the enrollment of students is depended upon the courses and the ability to maintain the quality and consistency of the teaching modalities. As such, the future operations are depended upon the chances to increase both offline and online student enrollment in China. The operating costs and expenses of this company consisted of the cost of the revenues, marketing and selling expenses and the general and administrative expenses.

Capital

In October 2018, New Oriental initiated a share purchase program with an aggregate value of US$200 million. Under such programs, shares purchase of 952000 ADSs was purchased for about US$56 million on open market. The same shares weighed an average purchase price of about US$58.78 per ADS. As an illustration by Bazarbash (2019), the capital of any organization as per the Five Cs of the credit cost analysis is a reflection the investment and the intended investment programs. As such, capital is an indication that the company may be ready to take risk of borrowing money. In July 2020 there was a completion in offering of US$300 million as an aggregate principal that amounted to about 2.125% notes that are to be due in 2025. US$271.1 million was received after offering 2025 notes after the deduction of commissions, joint book runners, and approximated offering expenses.

Collaterals

New Oriental has US$25.1 billion of the market capitalization. From the start of the year 2020, the company gains were 30.98% while as of April 2021 the stock was closed at US$14.74 per every share. The net revenue as from 2018, 2019, and 2020 was US$2,477.4 million, US$3,096.5 million, and US$3,578.7 million in that order. Furthermore, revenues are the net refunds, related surcharges, and business taxes. As such, services from different education program like language trainings, test preparations, and books provision are the sources of revenue. As well, according to Manurung and Manurung (2019), collateral play an integral role during the lending agreement by acting as a borrower’s pledge in order to secure a repayable loan.  An illustration of the above operational cost and expenses has been provided in Fig 2.

Fig 2. The illustration of Operating Cost and Expenses

References

Bazarbash, M. (2019). Fintech in financial inclusion: machine learning applications in assessing credit risk. https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3404066

Disemadi, H. S. (2019). Risk Management In The Provision Of People’s Business Credit As Implementation Of Prudential Principles. Diponegoro Law Review, 4(2), 194-208. https://ejournal.undip.ac.id/index.php/dlr/article/view/24904

Manurung, E. T., & Manurung, E. M. (2019). A new approach of bank credit assessment for SMEs. Academy of Accounting and Financial Studies Journal, 23(3), 1-13. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Elvy_Manurung/publication/334670926_

Yhip, T. M., & Alagheband, B. M. (2020). Credit Analysis and Credit Management. In The Practice of Lending (pp. 3-46). Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-32197-0_1 

46

Health Care Administration

QUESTION

Discuss the Culture, Skills, Functions, & Divisions   

ANSWER

Module 1 - Case

Health Care Administration: Culture, Skills, Functions, & Divisions

Assignment Overview

In the Module 1 Overview, there are six management functions reviewed: (1) Planning, (2) Organizing, (3) Staffing, (4) Controlling, (5) Directing, and (6) Decision making. All six of these functions are equally important and dependent on one another. As a health care administrator/manager, you will have to effectively balance all the six of the management functions well. In addition, there are 3 key competencies that must be embraced by a health care manager to effectively carry out these management functions: (1) Conceptual skills, (2) Technical skills, and (3) Interpersonal skills.

Case Assignment

Before completing this assignment, be sure to read pages 46–50 in the following source from your background required readings:

Healey, B. J., & Marchese, M. C. (2012). Chapter 2: Health care management. In Foundations of health care management: Principles and methods (pp. 33-63). San Francisco: Jossey-Bass. Retrieved from the Trident Online Library.

For this assignment, using the chart below, complete the following:

1. Define and provide a health care management example for each management function.
2. Using the three noted skills, identify which skill(s) is/are highly needed for each management function. Be sure to explain the rationale for your selection.

Assignment Expectations

1. Conduct additional research to gather sufficient information to justify/support your responses.
2. Support your report with peer-reviewed articles, with at least 3 references.
3. Use the following link for additional information on how to recognize peer-reviewed journals:
   Angelo State University Library (n.d.) Library guide: How to recognize peer reviewed (refereed journals). Retrieved from: https://www.angelo.edu/services/library/handouts/peerrev.php
4. You may use the following source to assist in formatting your assignment:
   Purdue Online Writing Lab. (n.d.). General APA guidelines. Retrieved from: https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01/.
5. For additional information on reliability of sources review the following source:
   (n.d.) Finding and evaluating online resources. Retrieved from: https://nccih.nih.gov/health/webresources
6. Review Library Tutorial 1to review how to locate peer-reviewed articles in the Trident Library.

Important Note Regarding Requirements for all BSHA Assignments:

This information can be found in your first course announcement within “BSHA Course Guidelines.” All papers in all BSHA courses should be formatted and include the following:

• Cover page:
  Make sure to include your name; session & class (e.g., JUL2017FT-BHE200); module # & assignment (e.g. Module 1 Case Assignment); professor’s name; and date of submission. Do NOT include the text of the assignment on your cover page; simply your name, course number and session, date, and assignment title will suffice. Points will be deducted under the Professionalism Criteria for missing cover page components.
• Writing style and formatting:
• Use a 1-inch margin and a double-spaced 12 point Times New Roman font.
• Support your statements with evidence, not simply your opinion or feelings, because scholarly academic work builds on previous knowledge and recognizes the contributions that others have made to that knowledge.
• Support each idea, point, or statement of fact that is not common knowledge by citations and references.
• Academic papers should have at least 2, preferably 3 or more, scholarly and professional references (unless otherwise noted in the instructions and expectations for the assignment).
• Include in-text citations AND a reference list for each assignment (including PowerPoint presentations):
• You have to cite the source of the information within the body of the paper like this (Author’s last name, Year) and include a properly formatted reference list at the end of the paper (not just a list of links).
• Review http://www.apastyle.org/learn/index.aspx & https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/02/ to make sure you understand how to properly cite sources and create a reference list.

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47

Defining Adulthood

QUESTION

How cultures define adulthood vary dramatically. For some, adulthood may be religious celebration milestones and for others it may be based on a physical change or event. In still others, it may be based on legal factors such as, chronological age or marital status.
For this Discussion, you will explore cultures and factors that establish adulthood. Also, you will examine the value and limitations of utilizing indicators to define adulthood.

ANSWER

Defining Adulthood

In multiple cultures, marriage is considered a definitive transition to adulthood.  Marriage is part of adulthood's family capacity criteria, reflecting collectivistic values in cultures (Jansen and Arnett,94). Marriage symbolizes a mutual commitment between two individuals from different families (Hemez, 2018, pp.19). Both African American and Latino cultures associate marriage with emerging adulthood in men and women (Killian (2017, pp.232). From both cultures, with marriage comes additional responsibilities that are linked to gender roles. For instance, married men have added the obligation to provide for their new family. Meanwhile, married women have added the responsibility to care for their spouse and their children.

Marriage remains an essential milestone among African Americans and Latinos. Among African Americans and Latinos, marriage is a varying aspect influenced by multiple factors, including interactive, cultural, structural, and individual elements. According to Kilian (2017 pp,.232), the shift in cultural trends of marriage among African Americans impacts the likelihood of getting married. One cultural trend is women's independence, whereby Black women are embracing the freedom of being independent and not relying on men as spelled out in their traditions. The shift from familism to individualism is a potential limitation, influencing individuals from these cultures to opt not to marry.

The value of materialism limiting through popular culture is influencing people's perception of marriage. Killian (2017, pp.232) suggests that people are neither willing to commit to a relationship that leads to marriage, nor are they ready to sustain these marriages. Divorce is a common outcome in most marriages among both American and Latino cultures. Regardless, marriage is still considered an indicator of adulthood among those who embrace traditions that advocate for the institution of marriage.

References

Hemez, P. (2018). Young adulthood: Cohabitation, birth, and marriage experiences. Family Profiles, FP-18-22. Bowling Green, OH: National Center for Family & Marriage Research. https://doi.org/10.25035/ncfmr/fp-18-22.

Jensen, L. A., & Arnett, J. J. (2012). Going global: New pathways for adolescents and emerging adults in a changing world. Journal of Social Issues, 68(3), 473–492. 

Killian, M. (2017). Soul Mates: Religion, Sex, Love, and Marriage among African Americans and Latinos.

48

Digital Disruption in Banking and Financial Services

QUESTION

Some big challenges for financial institutions globally have been the Digital Disruption, Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence. As a future business professional you will need to understand these challenges and their impact in both financial and non financial corporations. That knowledge will allow you to navigate easier these areas and contribute in finding ways to benefit from managing these developments.
What are you going to do?
• Make at least one, 250 word original post discussing one of the following topics:
o Digital Disruption in Banking and Financial Services. Search for articles that discuss this topic and summarize your findings.
• List your resource(s) and include one lesson learned that can be useful in the future.

ANSWER

Digital Disruption within the Banking and Financial Services

                Krstic and Tešić (2016) present a research study that relay that digital disruption experienced within the banking sector affect the business models of the financial institutions. This results to the innovation of the financial products and services, business models and the distribution and sales channels, with an ultimate change on the culture of the firms (Krstic & Tešić, 2016). The digital disruption advocates for the establishment of new banking executives focused on changing the culture of the organization. Digital disruption is regarded as an opportunity for the financial sector players since it creates an environment for transformation and their desirability in meeting the needs of the consumers (Krstic & Tešić, 2016.

                Wewege, Lee and Thomsett (2020) present a study which explores the digital banking trends experienced due to the technological disruptions. The research finds that the disruption experienced in the banking sector will result to a growth in the level of access of the fintech trends in the next few years. This suggests that the digitized-mobile-banking services currently gaining prominence will stress on the banking infrastructure’s capabilities for connectivity, data sharing, cyber security as well as the standardization of the APIs to guarantee data protection and that open-banking directive are observed (Wewege, Lee & Thomsett, 2020).

From this activity, a lesson was drawn that digital transformation is defined by factors such as the development and use of online banking systems and applications that offers the customers with more power. As a result, the financial services consumers can demand for better experiences. The banking organizations are required to meet the consumer demand, through strategies such as culture change, to avoid losing their customer loyalty.

References

Krstic, N. & Tešić, D. (2016). Digital disruption of the banking industry: Threat or opportunity?. Bankarstvo, 45, 12-33.

Wewege, L., Lee, J., & Thomsett, M. C. (2020). Disruptions and digital banking trends. Journal of Applied Finance and Banking, 10(6), 15-56.

49

How creativity in telling a particular version of a career story helps

TMA Question:

Surf the NET and pick a visual CV of your choice (I uploaded the Visual CV in the files), then attempt the following:

Analyse the semiotics of the chosen visual CV such as the [visual narrativity, composition, colours etc.]. You need to shed light on how the narrative is elaborated in such a multimodal text.

Discuss how creativity in telling a particular version of a career story helps an applicant in getting the intended job i.e. achieving its purpose/function.

ANSWER

Language and creativity have been established as crucial aspect in writing, especially in the digital designs (Toth, 2013). Visual art and design no longer make appeal without the incorporation of well-crafted language that seeks to enhance the understanding of the text (Kress & Leeuwen, 2006). Visual grammar is realized based on haw an individual communicates using visual forms. It is structured with others and in a way that they enhance use of the visuals in everyday life scenario. Language is governed by rules, and the cultural environment determines the rule of the system. Thus, language can be used to modify ideology depending on how it is used or presented (Norris & Maier, 2014). Even in the visual art and designs of contemporary visual presentations in the cooperate world, such as marketing and presentation of curriculum vitae, language is considered dominant mode of communication. Primarily, for effective understanding of meaning in visual art and designs, both the visual mode and appearance accompanying language is crucial (Toth, 2013). The paper will entail an analysis of a visual art in form of a CV concerning aspects such as semiotic considerations. Besides, the influence of creativity in telling career story of an applicant will also be discussed based on sample CV.

The applicant is a designer, thus, there is need to show creativity skills in designing the CV. The CV is organized into two sections with different colors and roles. The first section is the part containing the personal information of the author, profile, and skills. The organization is distinct and addresses the need to separate personal information from the contextual aspects of the document. The use of visual narrative in the CV is practical and appealing. The author has used various colors to blend with different types of information presented in the text. It has a black background with a red flip at the top near the profile picture, and the text in this section is in white to ensure that the color contrast produces the best visibility of the text. Besides, the picture of the applicant is in bright colors making a black background more appropriate in revealing the qualities of the image.

The primary color used in the background is white, which is the standard color of writing a CV. It ensures that the texts written in black are seen clearly. The most interesting use of color in the CV is the application of a reddish brown color to separate various section of the paper. Sections such as education, work experience, courses, and area of experience are perfectly separated using the reddish brown streak from which the headings are indicated. The overall background color is the same as the separating reddish brown streak, this brings a unique appeal, and uniformity to the CV. Color semantics is language is very important, especially when it directly influences the choice in a job application. While coloring of CVs is secondary in many recruitment exercises, it is an essential aspect for people seeking to be employed as digital designers (Toth, 2013). 

The CV has a perfect composition concerning the arrangements of various aspects of the paper to one another. The applicant uses idea-real composition, which supports the arrangements of activities are from top to bottom. For instance, considering her work experience, she started with his current position of work and proceeds downwards until where he was first employed as a designer in 2012. Education is also arranged from the latest educational qualification down to the first qualification in high school. Thus, it follows that the aspects of areas of interest are also listed based on the degree of interest. The profile section is arranged in the most logical manner starting from personal information and contacts, brief description, and skills that makes the applicant suitable for the Job.

Connotation is also used to enhance the appeal of language to the reader of the text (Norris & Maier, 2014). For instance, she says that she has worked in various firms with related practices as the company to which she applying a job. Thus, she has more than six years experience that she brings to improve the performance of the organization. Besides, she has been committed to his jobs since she landed her first employment in 2012 as a web designer. Thus, she appeals to the recruiting body to look at her commitment and need to serve in the organization. The use of denotation of words in the CV is to convey exact meanings as intended by the applicant. The author carefully chooses words that have positive connotation. For instance, “Professional UI designer I carry six years plus experience in UI/UX design and development." The statement contains a positive connotation since it informs the recruiting team that besides being hopeful of achieving greater things in the field of design, the applicant brings significant experience needed by the company.

The author of the CV uses various signs and symbols to enhance the visual appeal of the documents. One of the signs used is the profile photograph of the applicant embedded on the left right corner of the CV. She has put a beautiful photograph of her to give the Impression of how she looks like. In the photo, the recruiting team can conclude that she is not only intelligent, based on her education credentials presented in the CV, but she is also beautiful and good looking. The CV has indexical signs that express natural connection with specific aspects indicated in texts. For instance, in the sections indicating areas of interest, the author uses red heart s sign to express the intensity of love for the activities listed in the section. The use of symbol in the documents only relates to its object in conventional and arbitrary manner. For example, the language used by the applicant is specific to the job she applying. She uses technical terms that are understood only by the people in the profession. For example, she says that she is currently pursuing IDF courses for UX designer, such language is specific to the kind of application she is making. 

Creativity in telling your career path is essential to convince the panel to consider you. It is a way of convening the panel that you are more suitable for the job using creative story telling skills. During an interview, one of the crucial storytelling skills is maintaining eye contact with panel members to keep them glued to your account (Smiciklas, 2012). Having keen interest through eye contact makes the panel pay keen interest in your career story, making them pick essential aspects that are important for the job in question. The choice of words when telling your career story is essential since it informs the audience that you had a positive experience in your earlier career and can deliver for the employing organization. For instance, the words should be terminologies that are specific to the practices in the profession (Toth, 2013). Plane words without professional meanings may make the panel to doubt your competence for the job. Creating suspense is also a crucial technique to make the panel interesting in your story. It is important to be chronological in the story. Highlight main achievements during your career as a way of expressing competence. In the middle of the story, bring known characters that you have interacted with in the profession and that significance of such interactions. It is appropriate to end with a positive take away statement that gives confidence to the interviewing panel.

Semantics in the use of language is a creative manner helps to improve the appeal of text (Rowsell, 2012). Besides, organization structure, coloring and positrons all contributes to the meaning and clarity of a test. CV is one of the most important types of writing in an individual’s life since it is a summery presentation qualifications, skills, and experience of an applicant that makes one qualified for a given job. Therefore, it is crucial to include semiotic qualities in the digital resumes to make them appealing and convincing to the recruiting panel. The use of signs and symbols are crucial to enhancing crucial aspects of the document. Nonetheless, using colors to bring contrasts and beauty to the document, the composition, and arrangement of the subjects in CV should bring an impressive design. Nonetheless, it is crucial to use storytelling techniques while narrating your career story to the panel. For instance, maintaining eye contact, introducing known contact, using career relevant terms, and finishing with positive take away increases chances of making interviewing panel members more interested in the story.

References

Kress, G. and van Leeuwen, T. (2006) Reading Image: The Grammar of Visual Design, Abingdon, Routledge. 

Norris, S. and Maier, C. D. (eds) (2014) Interactions, Images and Texts: A Reader in Multimodality, Berlin, De Gruyter Mouton.

Rowsell, J. (2012) Working with Multimodality: Rethinking Literacy in a Digital Age, London, Routledge

Smiciklas, M (2012) The Power of Infographics: Using Pictures to Communicate and Connect with Your Audiences, Indinapolis, IN, Person Education/ Que Publishing.

Toth, C. (2013) ‘Revising a genre: teaching infographics in business and professional communication courses’, Business Communication Quarterly, vol. 76, no. 4, pp. 446-457

50

Think sporting arenas should be funded with public money

QUESTION

Do you think sporting arenas should be funded with public money? Yes or No?

ANSWER

Publicly Funding Sport Arenas

Sports are arguably one of the passions of Americans across the country. Fullagar (2019) explains that sports finals are responsible for America's most pride and excitement compared to other events. This type of enthusiasm is also prevalent in city governments. Cities are known to support their home teams, often willing to go to great lengths to ensure that victory remains in their respective cities. Cities also give several gifts to boost the spirits of team members (Kellison, 2020). The most common gift is funding for the local teams and modern arenas. A controversial topic surrounds public funding. Some argue that sport arenas are beneficial for the city since they create employment and boost the city’s economy. On the other hand, others maintain that the negative outcomes outweigh the benefits associated with publicly funding arenas. This paper argues that cities should not fund sporting arenas because; funding sporting arenas using public money is a poor investment deal, funding directed towards sporting arenas goes to private gain, public funding results in minimal economic gains, public arenas contribute to reduced employment rates, and diverts important funds to insignificant departments.

Firstly, publicly funding city stadiums and teams is a poor investment for any city. According to Johnson (2019), majority of economists and development professionals maintain that a town would receive much higher returns from investing in other projects within the town instead of directing the public money to sporting activities. Evidence supports that cities heavily invested in sporting activities through stadiums, arenas, or teams tend to experience slower economic growth than those that have not (Johnson, 2019).

Secondly, public money is used for private gain. In a recent study, the worth of a new stadium increases by up to $11 million per year (Johnson, 2019). The public money issued gives public subsidies to private stadiums (Quinton, 2020). The subsidies reflect in the upsurge of payroll salaries and team value annually. These subsidies do not benefit the stadiums as they go directly into the accounts of players and team owners.

In addition, public funding results in minimal economic gains. Extensive economic research regarding stadiums and their benefits shows that new stadiums may negatively impact the city’s economy (Quinton, 2020). From the analysis, existing or new stadiums do not create new wealth or economic gains. They only serve to distribute existing public funds from one entertainment venture to another. For example, Americans would gladly spend money on a sporting event instead of going to the movies. In the same manner, city municipalities would happily build a new stadium than a movie theater. Therefore, the entire system is only based on the redistribution of money in an alternative form of entertainment. 

Also, costs for building and maintaining stadiums are higher than the benefits resulting from these stadiums. Lower (2019) explains that the typical cost of constructing a baseball or football stadium is approximately $185 million. In the long-term, this same building will generate only $40 million from the tax revenues and created jobs. Mathematically speaking, the ratio of cost to benefit is 4:1, a poor financial investment for the city. 

Stadiums are responsible for destroying employment and reducing paid wages to workers. Wyatt (2020) explains that sports teams require fewer workers to operate and manage, and most of the job posts are temporary, varying from one game season to the next. Similarly, after the construction of the stadium, fewer people are required to maintain it. Collectively, these jobs are low-wage. Stadiums also drive out skilled labor who are in search of employment (Wyatt, 2020). Therefore, it causes the general employment rate and income inflow in the city to decline.

Moreover, stadiums can be private investment. Sroka (2020) argues that because sports is another form of entertainment, private investors can take up constructing and maintaining the stadiums. In this way, private investors will be responsible for the general cost and maintenance associated with city stadiums. In the past, Jakar (2020) explains that private stadium funding was realized, giving San Francisco Giants' SBC Park and Atlanta Braves' Turner Field as some private stadium examples. Thus, public funding need not be directed to funding arenas and teams of the city.

Publicly funded stadiums and arenas divert the taxpayer money from significant priorities within the city. For example, instead of diverting money to stadiums, the money could be diverted to hospitals, public education, roads, and other necessary departments that would generally make life better for all inhabitants in the city. 

On the other hand, Kellison (2020) explains that funding arenas using public money is based on the fact that they will positively impact the community. For example, in the short-term, new arenas create employment opportunities. Short-term benefits are feasible because more than 3000 people are employed for the construction of the stadium, and once it is completed, more people are employed to maintain it (Kellison, 2020). In the long-term, arenas would boost tourism within the city. Bradbury (2020) claims that the publicly funded stadiums would result in a multiplier effect. This means that increased income from the new job opportunities would lead to increased spending, job creation, and investment within the city. Thus, the multiplier becomes another long-term profit for the city's economy. 

Conclusion

Americans generally love sports. It is common for Americans to spend more money on sporting activities as opposed to other social events. This nature of Americans is also seen in managing public funds since most of it is used in constructing new stadiums and maintaining existing ones across cities in the country. However, from the above discussions, publicly funding stadiums have more negative effects than positive ones. For example, stadiums' economic gains are significantly less compared to the money spent to construct and maintain it. Therefore, there should be alternative ways of funding these projects, such as private funding. 

Reference

Bradbury, J. C. (2020). The Impact of Sports Stadiums on Localized Commercial Activity: Evidence from a Business Improvement District. Available at SSRN.

Fullagar, H. H., Harper, L. D., Govus, A., McCunn, R., Eisenmann, J., & McCall, A. (2019). Practitioner Perceptions of Evidence-Based Practice in Elite Sport in the United States of America. The Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research, 33(11), 2897-2904.

Jakar, G. S. (2020). Private and Public Sports Venue Development Dilemmas: Economic Geography, Sports Venue Development, and Public Finance (Doctoral dissertation).

Johnson, C., & Hall, J. (2019). The Public Choice of Public Stadium Financing: Evidence from San Diego Referenda. Economies, 7(1), 22.

Kellison, T., & Mills, B. M. (2020). Voter intentions and political implications of legislated stadium subsidies. Sport Management Review.

Lower, L. M., & Czekanski, W. A. (2019). Effective management of scarce resources: A case study of American collegiate sport clubs. Managing Sport and Leisure, 24(1-3), 119-140.

Quinton, D. X. (2020). A Comprehensive Analysis of Subsidies for Professional Sports Stadiums in the United States using the Moda Center (Doctoral dissertation, University of Oregon).

Sroka, R. (2020). Convergence and Divergence in Stadium Ownership Structures. DePaul Journal of Sports Law, 16(1), 8.

Wyatt, A. (2020). Do Sports Stadiums Raise Residential Values: The Case of Banc of California Stadium.Stadium?