Wednesday, November 27, 2019

The Importance of Cleaning free essay sample

Issues surrounding cleaning can never be over analysed. At first glance cleaning may seem unenchanting, however its study is a necessity for any one wishing to intellectually advance beyond their childhood. Cited by many as the single most important influence on post modern micro eco compartmentalism, it is important to remember that ‘what goes up must come down. ’ Inevitably feelings run deep amongst the easily lead, many of whom fail to comprehend the full scope of cleaning. Here begins my indepth analysis of the glourious subject of cleaning. Social Factors Society is a simple word with a very complex definition. Back when Vealinger reamarked ‘the power struggle will continue while the great tale of humanity remains untold’ [1] he must have been referning to cleaning. Much has been said about the influence of the media on cleaning. Observers claim it is crunchy on the outside but soft in the middle. Some analysts have been tempted to disregard cleaning. We will write a custom essay sample on The Importance of Cleaning or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page I haven’t. It has been said that the one thing in society which could survive a nuclear attack is cleaning. This is incorrect, actually cockroaches are the only thing which can survive a nuclear attack. Economic Factors Economics has been defined as Ill scratch your back if you scratch mine. To my learned ear that sounds like two people with itchy backs. Indisputably there is a link. How can this be explained? It goes with out saying that interest world wide are driven entirely by cleaning. Assumptions made by traders have caused uncertainty amongst the private sector. Political Factors Politics, we all agree, is a fact of life. Comparing the electoral politics of most Western and Eastern European countries is like comparing chalk and cheese. To quote award winning journalist Maximilian Woodpecker consciousness complicates a myriad of progressions. [2] I argue that his insight into cleaning provided the inspiration for these great words. Perhaps the word which sums up the importance of cleaning to politics is participation. While cleaning may be a giant amongst men, is it a dwarf amongst policy? I hope not. Conclusion How much responsibility lies with cleaning? We can say that cleaning parades along mans streets and man waves back. It inspires, applauds greatness, though cleaning brings with it obvious difficulties, it is truly cleaning. I shall give the final word to star Mariah Poppins: I demand cleaning, nothing more nothing less.

Sunday, November 24, 2019

Timeline of the Little Rock School Integration

Timeline of the Little Rock School Integration In September 1927, Little Rock Senior High School opened. Costing more than 1.5 million to construct, the school opened for white students only. Two years later, the Paul Laurence Dunbar High School opened for African-American students. Its construction cost $400,000 with donations from the Rosenwald Foundation and Rockefeller General Education Fund. 1954 May 17: The U.S. Supreme Court finds that racial segregation in public schools is unconstitutional in the Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka.May 22: Despite many southern school boards resisting the Supreme Court’s ruling, the Little Rock School Board decides to cooperate with the Court’s decision.August 23: The Arkansas NAACP Legal Redress Committee is led by attorney Wiley Branton. With Branton at the helm, the NAACP petitions the school board for prompt integration of public schools. 1955 May 24: The Blossom Plan is adopted by the Little Rock School Board. The Blossom Plan calls for the gradual integration of public schools. Beginning of September 1957, the high school would become integrated followed by lower grades over the next six years.May 31: The initial Supreme Court ruling provided no guidance on how to desegregate public schools yet acknowledged the need for further discussions. In another unanimous ruling known as Brown II, local federal judges are given the responsibility of ensuring that public school authorities integrate â€Å"with all deliberate speed.† 1956 February 8: The NAACP lawsuit, Aaron v. Cooper is dismissed by Federal Judge John E. Miller. Miller argues that the Little Rock School Board acted in â€Å"utmost good faith† in establishing the Blossom Plan.April: The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals upholds Miller’s dismissal yet made the Little Rock School Board’s Blossom Plan a court mandate.   1957 August 27: The Mother’s League of Central High School holds its first meeting. The organization advocates for continued segregation in public schools and files a motion for a temporary injunction against integration at Central High School.August 29: Chancellor Murray Reed approves the injunction arguing that the integration of Central High School could lead to violence. Federal Judge Ronald Davies, however, voids the injunction, ordering the Little Rock School Board to continue with its plans for desegregation.September: The local NAACP registers nine African-Americans students to attend Central High School. These students were chosen based on their academic achievement and attendance.September 2: Orval Faubus, then governor of Arkansas, announces through a televised speech that African-American students would not be allowed to enter Central High School. Faubus also orders the state’s National Guard to enforce his orders.September 3: The Mother’s League, Citizenà ¢â‚¬â„¢s Council, parents and students of Central High School hold a â€Å"sunrise service.† September 20: Federal judge Ronald Davies orders the National Guard to be removed from Central High School arguing that Faubus has not used them to preserve law and order. Once the National Guard leaves, the Little Rock Police Department arrive.September 23, 1957: The Little Rock Nine are escorted inside of Central High School while a mob of more than 1000 white residents protest outside. The nine students are later removed by local police officials for their own safety. In a televised speech, Dwight Eisenhower orders federal troops to stabilize violence in Little Rock, calling the behavior of white residents â€Å"disgraceful.†September 24: An estimated 1200 members of the 101st Airborne Division arrive in Little Rock, placing the Arkansas National Guard under federal orders.September 25: Escorted by federal troops, the Little Rock Nine are escorted into Central High School for their first day of classes.September 1957 to May 1958: The Little Rock Nine attend classes at Centr al High School but are met with physical and verbal abuse by students and staff. One of the Little Rock Nine, Minnijean Brown, was suspended for the remainder of the school year after she reacted to consistent confrontations with white students. 1958 May 25: Ernest Green, a senior member of the Little Rock Nine, is the first African-American to graduate from Central High School.June 3: After identifying several disciplinary issues at Central High School, the school board requests a delay in the desegregation plan.June 21: Judge Harry Lemly approves the delay of integration until January 1961. Lemly argues that although African-American students have a constitutional right to attend integrated schools, the â€Å"time has not come for them to enjoy [that right].†September 12: The Supreme Court rules that Little Rock must continue to use its desegregation plan in place. High schools are ordered to open on September 15.September 15: Faubus orders four high schools in Little Rock to be closed at 8 am.September 16: The Women’s Emergency Committee to Open Our Schools (WEC) is established and builds support to open public schools in Little Rock.September 27: White residents of Little Rock vote 19, 470 to 7,561 in support of segregation. The public schools remain closed. This becomes known as the â€Å"Lost Year.† 1959 May 5: Members of the school board in support of segregation vote not to renew the contracts of more than 40 teachers and school administrators in support of integration.May 8: WEC and a group of local business owners establish Stop This Outrageous Purge (STOP). The organization begins soliciting voter signatures to oust the school board members in favor of segregation. In retaliation, segregationists form the Committee to Retain Our Segregated Schools (CROSS).May 25: In a close vote, STOP wins the election. As a result, three segregationists are voted off the school board and three moderate members are appointed.August 12: Little Rock public high schools reopen. Segregationists protest at the State Capitol and Governor Faubus encourages them not to give up the struggle to keep schools from integrating. As a result, the segregationists march to Central High School. An estimated 21 people are arrested after police and fire departments break up the mob.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Amores Perros Movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Amores Perros - Movie Review Example Right from the starting sequence till the eventual climax the movie held my attention. Not only was the story suspense filled and gripping, but it was also fast paced. But in spite of these exciting aspects, the movie’s probing of ethical question regarding humans and animals is its standout feature. As much as the directorial excellence the performance rendered by the lead characters is also that will stay in my memory for a long time to come. In each of the three sub-plots, the characters give a superb performance – one that is realistic while also aesthetically pleasing. The movie has so many merits, but it is not devoid of flaws. I earlier mentioned how innovative the narrative technique was, but during the movie’s climactic phase, when the connection between the three sub-plots was revealed, there is room for improvement. To give a specific example, I got the impression that the movie drifted away from the story of Octavia before its proper completion. I also felt that there is an excess of violent imagery in the film. But, considering the fact that it was a debut film for the director, it is indeed a stand out work. I will carry with me many memorable moments from the movie, starting from the breathtaking opening car chase to the somewhat less aesthetic dog fights to the internal turmoil of the model toward the

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Telnex technological change Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Telnex technological change - Essay Example Both of them bring with themselves a lot of professional and managerial experience but are new to the working of Telnex. We observe that though the Board members, and the staff to some extent, are committal to changes proposed by John Eton and David Harrow, there is a passive simmering resistance to change. Since both the project managers are new entrants, an impression seems to have gone down in the lower management and that John Eton and David Harrow are solely responsible for thrusting an era of change, displacement, increasing work burden, curtailing of freedom and loss of jobs at Telnex. The need for corporate change and a makeover is not figment of imagination of the Board, Genfirst or David and John. It is an urgency brought in by changing market forces that have global ramifications. The workforce needs to be apprised of the fact that change is necessary if Telnex has to survive, the new era competition and becoming continuously responsive to market needs. Rather than taking the onus of change on themselves both the managers need to make the change, a part of the company work culture. Telnex has to cut cost, become technology savvy, increase product range, deliver better customer support and service, and more value for money if it has to survive the onslaught of new players in the market. Telnex Ltd is a consumer durable manufacturing company trying to mould itself to changing market needs. The very hiring of Genfirst—a consultancy company speaks of the need to change being felt by the management. If Genfirst has identified two areas of diversification, the pros and cons of the idea should be weighed together by internal committees and subcommittees of the organization. David Harrow and John Eton the project managers should chair these committees. Decisions taken by committees should be put before Board for approval. Conflict resolution between

Sunday, November 17, 2019

The use of IFI replacing PRSP Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The use of IFI replacing PRSP - Essay Example It is a road map that leads the organizations involved in this process, to the making of the final PRSP. During the period in which the document is formulated, greater participation by the civil society is encouraged. The data that provides information on the nature of poverty and its distribution are collected and considered for statistical analysis. According to the IMF and the World Bank, the PRSP document must present an exclusive description of the participatory process for the making of the document, a comprehensive diagnosis of the problem of poverty, clear description of the social and economic priorities and transparent targets in accordance with the costs incurred by the society. The PRSP acts as an indicator of the monitoring system and helps in evaluating the process of progress (Christiansen and Hovland, â€Å"The PRSP Initiative: Multilateral Policy Change and the Role of Research†). ... This is because the process is highly context specific and the does not follow any pre determined critical pathway that would directly lead the government of the country to develop the PRSP (Christiansen and Hovland, â€Å"The PRSP Initiative: Multilateral Policy Change and the Role of Research†). The basic principle followed for the drafting of the interim PRSP is to follow the broad participation rate, engagement of the civil society as well as the private sector in deciding the structure of the expenditure and their priorities. Structural adjustment measures in Pakistan Pakistan has undergone a number of structural adjustment programs since the 1970s. The adjustment modification that was undertaken in the 1980s had brought improvement in the economic performance of the country and also made the common population capable of responding to the economic changes occurring in the economy of Pakistan. However, the focus of these structural adjustment lied solely on increasing effi ciency of economic activities in order to bring economic benefits, but, attention had not been given to the problem of rising income inequality. Incidence of poverty has grown over the years and at present there is huge inequality in distribution of income (James and Pyatt, â€Å"Three-Gap Analysis of Structural Adjustment in Pakistan†). These factors have necessitated the drafting of the Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers. The government (Finance Ministry of the Government) along with the civic bodies in the nation, individual participants and non-governmental organizations work in synchronization to develop the draft of the PRSP backed by the international financial institutions (IFI). The PRSP has been aimed at replacing the existing structural adjustment measures in the

Friday, November 15, 2019

The Key Factors Contributing To An Effective Destination Marketing Essay

The Key Factors Contributing To An Effective Destination Marketing Essay According to Blain 2001, before defining the concept of destination branding, it was essential to define branding in its general term. Henceforth to provide a better insight of the traditional definition of a brand a definition by Aaker (1990) in Managing Brand Equity was firstly identified. He defines brand as a name, term, sign, symbol, or design, or a combination of them, intended to identify the goods and services of one seller or group of sellers and to differentiate them from those of competitors. According to the traditional perspective, a brand was solely associated with the product/service which would help the product/service to be distinguished amongst others. Moreover, Kotler (2000) also shared the same viewpoint as he defined brand as the name associated with one or more items in the product line, which is used to identify the source of character of the item(s) (Kotler 2000, p. 396). In addition, as the word keeps evolving and becomes more challenging, Blain (2001) in his definition of branding explained the difference between brand and logo. He argued that the logo design is the symbol or visual representation of the brand, which includes image, identity and perceptions of the perceived product. Creating a logo is one key aspect of branding but the branding of a product/service involves more than just a logo as the brand name also is an important factor. Hence, both the brand and the logo are interdependent. Within this view, Keller (2003a) states that, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦whenever a marketer creates a new name, logo, or symbol for a new product, he or she has created a brand (p. 3). However, Kapferer (1997) mentioned that the brand is a sign- therefore external- whose function is to disclose the hidden qualities of the product which are inaccessible to contact (p 28). Here, the perception of branding is totally different compared to previous research. Kapferer put much emphasis on the identity that a brand name projects and which will further help the product/service to distinguish itself from competition. Taking the example of the global fast food industry namely McDonalds, Ghosh et al (2010) stated that there are certain value propositions that the company offers to its customers to satisfy their needs. McDonalds offers hygienic environment, good ambience and great service. It can hence be considered that the hidden qualities as mentioned earlier by Kapferer here is the perception which people have with regards to the ambience at Mc Donald. Henceforth, Kohli and Thakor (1997) suggest that, The challenge today is to create a strong and distinctive image (p. 208 ). Initially, a brand was simply a name, it gradually became a representation of a product and now a brand not only represent a product or service alone but marketers can also brand a city, a state, a nation or even a country. Branding is also about creating awareness of a destination. According to Upshaw (1995), it is useful to review a summary of the terminologies of branding as it helps to understanding the various terms of branding used in the branding of destinations. Brand Equity The total accumulated value or worth of a brand; the tangible and intangible assets that the brand contributes to its corporate parent, both financially and in terms of selling leverage. Brand identity Part of the brands overall equity; the total perception of a brand in the marketplace, driven mostly by its positioning and personality. Brand positioning What a brand stands for in the minds of customers and prospects, relative to its competition, in terms of benefits and promises. Brand personality The outward face of a brand; its tonal characteristics most closely associated with human traits. Brand essence The core or distillation of the brand identity. Brand character Having to do with the internal constitution of the brand; how it is seen in terms of integrity, honesty and trustworthiness. Brand soul Related to the brand character, defined as the values and emotional core of the brand. Brand culture The system of values that surrounds a brand, much like the cultural aspects of a people or a country. Brand image Generally synonymous with either the brands strategic personality or its reputation as a whole. Table 1: The basic terminologies of branding (Upshaw 1995) With these terminologies as a foundation, a definition of destination branding can be developed which will help to have a better overview of the tourism destination branding. DESTINATION BRANDING Despite being uncertain about referring the branding concept to the tourism destination context (OShaughnessy OShaughnessy 2000), that concept has only recently captured the interest of tourism destination researchers and practitioners (Curtis 2001; Anholt 2002; Cai 2002; Morgan Pritchard 2002; Olins 2002). The notion of branding in the tourism industry has only recently to come in the limelight and apparently became a debatable and examinable topic in the late 1990s according to Pike (2002) and Tasci Kozak (2006). Ricardo (2009) also supported the fact that although branding has been an old aged concept, the study of destination branding is a relatively new addition in the tourism research field. With reference to the definition of branding that Aaker (1991) derived from his research, he explained destination branding as a distinguishing name and/ or symbol (such as a logo, or trademark) intended to identify the destination and to differentiate it from competitive destinations. ( p.7). Here also, the researcher put much emphasis on the name and symbol that would contribute to the personalization of the destination from competitors. However, some researchers do not limit their definition of branding to a simple name and symbol. According to Ritchie and Crouch (2003), the destination branding concept is also about feelings and emotional attachment that the visitor would experience when visiting the destination. Within this perspective, they proposed the following definition: A destination brand is a name, symbol, logo trademark or other graphic that both identifies and differentiates the destination; furthermore, it conveys the promise of a memorable travel experience that is uniquely associated with the destination. It also serves to consolidate and reinforce the post- travel recollection of pleasurable memories of the destination experience. Henceforth, a destination brand is far more complex than a product brand. The destination brand must have two attributes to be efficient compared to the brand of a product/service. Firstly, it is necessary to differentiate itself from other destinations as put forward by Aaker (1991), and secondly people visiting the destination should also experience the promise associated with the brand message. The marketer must make sure to deliver the experience promised. Taking the example of Columbia, the brand associated is The only risk is wanting to stay. According to Buncle (2009), when a sightseer visits Columbia, he should want to prolonged his visit, only then the marketer could have the satisfaction of a successful destination brand. Additionally, Cai (2002) defined destination branding from a much similar perspective. He described destination brand as perceptions about a place as reflected by the associations held in tourist memory (Cai 2002, p. 273). His definition reflects that of R itchie and Crouch (2003) as both consider destination brands as an essence, a perception that tourists have when visiting a destination. However, Kerr (2006) considered the concept of competitiveness, the promise of a memorable travel experience and the recollection of pleasurable memories to derive his own definition. To summarize the concept of destination branding, De Chernatony McDonald (1992) commented that the concept of branding is increasingly being applied to people and places. Furthermore, Kotler et al (1999) argue that the concept of a brand name extends to tourist destinations. Acapulco, Palm Springs and the French Riviera have developed strong reputations, consumer perceptions and expectations. In similar ways, Virginia builds on Birthplace of Presidents, Mississippi on The Heart of Dixie, Niagara Falls is Romance, Greece is The Birthplace of Democracy and Florence The centre of the Renaissance. According to Kotler et al (1993), the concept of destination branding is linked to the specific attraction that the destination has to offer and is a platform for building a places image. Finally, the most comprehensive definition of destination branding to date was proposed by Blain et al (2005, p. 337), which includes both supply and demand perspectives: Destination branding is the set of marketing activities that (1) support the creation of a name, symbol, logo, word mark or other graphic that readily identifies and differentiates a destination; that (2) consistently convey the expectation of a memorable travel experience that is uniquely associated with the destination; that (3) serve to consolidate and reinforce the emotional connection between the visitor and the destination; and that (4) reduce consumer search costs and perceived risk. Collectively, these activities can help a destination have a positive influence on the visitor while the latter makes his choice of destination. The definition proposed by Blain et al (2005) covers all the needs and wants a traveler would want to have for his trip. To summarize, defining destination branding is a complex process as it is not only the marketing of a destination but also the sense of promise that the marketer would associate with the brand to all the potential visitors. It also encompasses the satisfaction the visitors would derive when experiencing the destination. COUNTRY BRAND VERSUS DESTINATION BRAND Not much research has been done till now to differentiate between a country brand and a destination brand. However according to Szondi (2007), the aim of destination branding is to attract visitors and boost tourism, while country branding promotes economic, commercial and political interests at home and abroad. Szondi (2007) further suggest that a country brand can consist of different brands, such as a destination brand, an export brand, an investment brand, a political brand, which can be all different rather than having a central, all-encompassing country brand. Some of these sub-brands can be stronger and more successful than others. He further argues that country brands have both intangible and tangible elements, such as the products or services of the particular country. The more specific aims of country branding are to create or advance the country-of-origin effect, to promote exports or attract investors or a skilled workforce. Country brands can serve as a sort of umbrella under which further sub-brands can be developed. Taking the case of Mauritius as example, it can be noted that its country brand is Mauritius- its a pleasure whilst its tourism brand is Les Iles Vanilles, on technological grounds, Mauritius has branded itself as Cyber- Mauritius and ecologically, the island has been termed as Maurice- Ile durable. Sub- brands are very important for a destination as it helps both investors and travelers to have an overview on the political, economical, social, technological, ecological and legal aspect of the destination. Another concrete example which shows an evidence of the difference is the case of India. The country brand of India is Incredible India, but several destinations of the country itself are branded separately. Table 2 clearly shows the difference between the country brand and the destination brand. Country brand Destination brands Table 2: Difference between a country brand and a destination brand REASONS DESTINATIONS DEVELOP BRANDS Research has proved that branding improve destination image among visitors and help Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs), who are the stakeholders of the tourism industry of a destination, in measuring the success of that branding concept. Branding successes include the Courtyard by Marriott (Alford 1998), Forte Hotels (Connell 1994), and Florida (American Marketing Association 1997). In addition, the 1998 Annual Travel and Tourism Research Association conference has reported a number of destination branding success stories. These included New York, Tasmania, Australia, Canada, New Orleans, Lousiana, Texas, and Oregon. The branding success in the hospitality firms (Beirne 1999; Higley 1999; Hodge 1998; Salomon 1998) has also been recognized. Also, from a nation branding perspective, Hamilton (2000) viewed Scotland as uniquely strong in integrity, inventiveness, tenacity, and spirit. Henceforth, it can be concluded that all the studies stress the importance of reinforcing a uniq ue image and personality as well as differentiating the destination from competitors to be successful and to be a recognized destination and nation around the world. Additionally, according to Rainisto (2004), a successful brand is a key national asset that is why every nation brands itself. In other words, branding is considered as a marketing tool to promote a destination and in the process of developing a successful brand the place itself is developed. Brown et al (2002) took the example of Australia and the Sydney 2000 Olympics to describe such a development. Branding Australia as a whole has changed the perspectives of many. With the Sydney Olympic game, other countries and even the local population viewed Australia differently as the targeted group was satisfied with the Sydney Olympic and Australia brand image was boosted. To summarize, destinations develop brands to be economically stable and develop as well as exploit existing resources for the benefit of the destination itself. Moreover, destinations develop brands so that they can sell themselves by citing only category benefits. For example, several tropical destinations mostly islands like Jamaica, The Bahamas, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Bermuda, Mexico and the Cayman Islands praise their clear blue water and white or pink or black sandy beaches to attract maximum number of tourists1. They sell fun, excitement or relaxation or the various activities that their destination offers with an added value of local culture which will outsmart the destination when compared to others as each destination has its own culture. Thus, it can be concluded that destinations develop brands to achieve fame and success by selling themselves to potential visitors. 1:http://www.stealingshare.com/pages/%20Destination%20Brand%20Development%20and%20Tourism%20Brand.htm DESTINATION IMAGE: The aim of destination branding is to put emphasis on the importance of a tourism brand and present the targeted market a favorable image of the mentioned brand according to Jalilvand et al (2010). It can therefore be understood that the image of a destination holds much importance and is considered as one of the key success factor brand. Moreover, Lin et al (2007) also agrees with the fact that destination image plays an important role in shaping tourists preferences and decisions to visit a particular destination. Henceforth, according to Morgan and Pritchard (1998), There is undoubtedly current interest in image. Image is exhorted as the defining experience of the decade, as the new reality. It is commonly recognized that destination image is, the sum of beliefs, ideas, and impressions that a person has of a destination (Crompton 1979, p. 18), it is also an important aspect in successful destination marketing (Tasci Gartner 2007). Some researchers relate destination image as one of the key component for the overall success of a destination in the field of tourism (Chen and Kerstetter 1999; Dadgostar and Isotalo 1992; Hunt 1975). Additionally, according to Echtner and Ritchie (1991), destination image is defined as not only the perceptions of individual destination attributes but also the holistic impression made by the destination (p. 8). Therefore destination image has proved to be a major factor in determining visitor choice (Lee, OLeary, and Hong 2002). The 3- Gap tourism destination image formation model: Moreover, as destination image has a great impact on the tourist behavior, researchers has been trying to identify the determinants that define, modify, and strengthen this concept (Tasci Gartner 2007). Therefore, past studies have considered destination image as a dependent variable suggesting that several factors play a role in the destination image formation (Alhemoud and Armstrong 1996; Bramwell and Rawding 1996; Gartner and Shen 1992; Gunn 1972; MacKay and Fesenmaier 1997; MacKay and Fesenmaier 2000; Smith and MacKay 2001; Sonmez, Apostolopoulos, and Tarlow 1999). Figure 1 below illustrates the destination image formation model and subsequently identifies those elements that have a direct influence on how the perceived destination image is formulated in the mind of the visitor. According to the diagram, there are three main types of destination image namely the cognitive, affective and the conative image that bridges the gap for a successful and effective destination image form ation which will eventually lead to a successful destination brand. FIGURE 1 THE 3-GAP TOURISM DESTINATION IMAGE FORMATION MODEL Figure 1: Adapted from Govers et al- 2007 Assurance of Quality According to Blain et al (2005) a recognized brand is an assurance for consumers who would generally derive satisfaction from that brand and trust that their expectations will be met. Viewed within a hospitality context, visitors will likely expect high-quality facilities and customer service at a renowned internationally recognized chain (brand) of hotels like the Oberoi Hotel Group as they are already acquainted with the service being provided by that particular firm. At the same time, visitors can also expect to pay a premium for this assurance of quality and reduction of perceived risk (Blain et al 2005). L. Berry (2000) states that a brand reduces customers perceived monetary, social, or safety risk in buying services, which are difficult to evaluate prior to purchase (p. 128). Henceforth, the image that a destination projects in the tourism market and its product offering as illustrated in the diagram above is primordial. DESTINATION AND BRAND PERSONALITY Furthermore, one of the other key factors for an effective destination brand is the personality of the destination. As places seek to become distinctive and unique in their own ways, destination personality is viewed as a possible means for understanding tourists perceptions of places and for designing a unique destination identity (Caprara et al 2001; Crask and Henry 1990; Morgan et al 2002, Triplett 1994). As we have seen in Table 1 above, Upshaw (1995) defined brand personality as human traits associated with the destination. Taking Dubai as an example, it is portrayed as a friendly, safe and virtually crime- free country and where hospitality has been a tradition for centuries2. 2:http://www.dubaitourism.ae/DubaiataGlance/WelcometoDubai/tabid/309/language/en US/Default.aspx BRAND PERSONALITY: In the tourism literature, the study of destination image has been of utmost importance during the past three decades, but destination personality has remained largely unexplored. However, since Aaker (1997) developed the Brand Personality Scale (BPS), which consists of five generic dimensions namely excitement, sincerity, competence, sophistication, and ruggedness, further studies on destination personality has been conducted and the brand personality dimensions have been applied to various destinations across different cultures to have a better overview on consumers opinion on that particular area and how it is being consumed by visitors (Aaker et al 2001; Supphellen and Grà ¸nhaug 2003). The brand personality of a destination must have the ability to provide a sense of uniqueness in the minds of the consumers which will in turn help to build and enhance brand equity (Keller 1993; Johnson et al 2000; Phau and Lau 2000). If a brand has a strong personality, consumers would be influ enced (Sirgy 1982; Malhotra 1988) and would tend to develop stronger emotional ties (Biel 1993), trust, and loyalty with the brand (Fournier 1998). DESTINATION PERSONALITY: Similarly to brand personality, a unique and emotionally attractive destination personality can influence the perceived image of a place and influence the choice of the tourist. For example, According to Crockett and Wood (2002), the rebranding of Western Australia has reflected another personality of the country. The destination was promoted as a premier nature-based tourism destination which in turn resulted in an increase in tourism. Although there has been little experimental investigations, destination personality has been adopted by many tourism academics at the conceptual level (Crockett and Wood 2002; Henderson 2000; Morgan et al 2002). For example, through an analysis done in a travel and tourism advertisement in the US travel media, Santos (2004) revealed that Portugal was represented with personality attributes such as contemporary, modern, sophisticated, and traditional. Morgan and Prichard (2002) observed that England was portrayed as being conservative, pleasant, refined, civilized, eccentric, and down to earth in the UK tourism media. Furthermore, Henderson (2000) revealed that the New Asia-Singapore brand composed of six personality characteristics namely cosmopolitan, youthful, vibrant, modern, reliability, and comfort. Moreover, destinations can be described using human personality traits, such as Europe is traditional and sophisticated; Wales is honest, welcoming, romantic, and down to earth; Spain is friendly and family oriented; London is open-minded, unorthodox, vibrant, and creative; and Paris is romantic (Morgan and Pritchard 2002). When choosing among competing products, consumers assess the degree of similarity between the personality traits communicated by the product (Plummer 1985) and by so doing; they reflect their own personality (Zinkhan et al 1996). Hence, a sportsman buying an energy drink like Red Bull will give the latter the impression that when consuming the drink, it would help him to be as strong as a bull. Therefore, there is both a physical and emotional consumption of the product. This notion is supported by Browns study (1992), which advocates that through tourism experience, there are symbolic as well as physical consumption of places. In contrast, whether the tourists have had a direct or indirect contact with the destination, perceptions of destination personality traits can be outlined (Plummer 1985). Destination send a variety of messages, most especially through advertising and tourists would receive and interpret those messages and form a personal opinion on the behavior of the destina tion. Personality traits can be associated with a destination in a direct way through citizens of the country, hotel employees, restaurants, and tourist attractions, or simply through the tourists imagery, defined as the set of human characteristics associated with the typical visitor of a destination (Aaker 1997). In an indirect manner, personality traits can be attributed to destinations through marketing programs such as cooperative advertising, value pricing, celebrities of the country, and media construction of destinations (Cai 2002). Accordingly, Ekinci and Hosany (2006) argued that, similar to consumer goods/brands, tourism destinations are rich in terms of symbolic values and personality traits, given that they consist of a bundle of tangible and intangible components (e.g., visitor attractions, hotels, and people) associated with particular values, histories, events, and feelings. Henceforth, it can be perceived as one of the key factors which contribute to an effective tourism destination brand. DESTINATION POSITIONING Another key aspect of an effective and successful destination brand is the positioning of the destination. In their classic book, Positioning: The Battle for Your Mind, Ries and Trout (1981) argued that the concept of positioning is not only applicable to a brand but also to a company, service, person, or even a place. A great number of researches have been conducted in the area of destination image and positioning (Gartner, 1989; Woodside et al., 1989; Woodside, 1990; Etchner and Ritchie, 1993; Chacko, 1997; Walmsley and Young, 1998; Botha et al., 1999). Most of the previous studies have followed the traditional approach to positioning that is based on image creation using a number of attributes that reflect the destinations most attractive products. Moreover, Etchner and Ritchie (1993) also believe that the image of a destination should be seen as having components that are attribute-based and holistic. They argued that an analysis of these attributes, integrated with personal variables such as the type of tourism needs sought, can help in identifying the relative strengths and weaknesses of the destination and can also contribute to identifying potential niche markets that could be used in developing the destinations positioning strategy. Buhalis (2000) also suggests, based on Butlers (1980) des tination life-cycle model as shown in Figure 2, that destinations at the later stage of their evolutionary development, that is the rejuvenation phase, should focus on alternative marketing strategies that support the image alteration, redesign or re-positioning of the tourism product. Figure 2: Adapted from Butler (1980) According to the figure above, the following represents: A: Exploration phase B: Involvement phase C: Development phase D: Consolidation phase E: Stagnation phase F: Decline/ Rejuvenation phase According to Butler (1980), each stage contributed to the expansion of tourism in the destination. However, the last phase namely decline/ rejuvenation phase recommend a repositioning and rebranding of the destination to boost the tourism level of the destination. Moreover, Trout and Rivkin (1996) believe that repositioning strategy becomes necessary when (1) Customer attitudes have changed; (2) Technology has overtaken existing products; and/or (3) Products have strayed from the customers long-standing perception of them. Furthermore, Crompton et al (1992) also suggested that, for effective positioning of a destination, the strong attributes that are perceived as important by visitors should be first identified. Also to be identified are other relevant attributes that are unique to the destination and capable of differentiating it effectively from its competitors in its ability to satisfy the customers needs. Consistent with this line of thought, Chacko (1997) in a study of the US tourism market combined the ten highest-ranked activities among Japanese tourists with their specific image attributes of the destination in order to get an indication of how to position the USA as a destination for Japanese visitors. Henceforth, the positioning of a destination is the process of establishing a distinctive place of that destination in the minds of potential visitors (Gartner, 1989). From the above, it can be concluded that to ensure success for the positioning strategy of a destination, it is imperative that the image of the destination and the specific product attributes that satisfy the customer should be identified. Authors such as Gunter and Furnham (1992), Sleight (1993) and Weinstein (1994) believe that markets are no longer as mass-oriented or colossal as they once were due to a change in visitors tastes and needs. Most tourists are in need for unique and unspoiled destinations. Therefore, as explained by Etchner Richie (1993), the measurement of the customers image of the tourism product and the satisfaction of the product attributes, combined with the identification of the tourist needs and desires in a tourist destination (Cho, 1998), can be perceived as factors leading to an effective destination positioning. BRAND EQUITY Apart from destination image, destination personality, destination positioning, another factor which can be considered as important for an effective brand is brand equity. Recently, much emphasis has been put in the tourism literature to the concept of brand equity (Ind 1997; Kapferer 1998; de Chernatony 1999; Aaker Joachimsthaler 2000). The Marketing Science Institute (1989) described brand equity in the perspective of customers as à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦the value that is added by the name and rewarded in the market with better profit margins or market shares. It can be viewed by customers and channel members as both a financial asset and as a set of favorable associations and behaviors. Keller (2002) also defines brand equity from a customers perspective. He explained that an identifiable brand would urge customers to respond favorably to the product. On the other hand, from a managerial perspective, Aaker (1991) defined brand equity as a set of brand assets and liabilities linked to a brand, its name and symbol add to or subtract from the value provided by a product or service to a firm and/or that firms customers. He stated that the assets and liabilities linked to a brands name or symbol can be grouped into five dimensions namely brand loyalty, brand awareness, perceived quality, brand associations, and other proprietary brand assets. He suggested that brand equity can be generated by strengthening those dimensions. Besides, Faircloth (2001) stated that recent definitions of brand equity have evolved and include the added value of name and expand to a broad set of attributes that drives customer choice. He also argued that brand equity actually represents a products position in the minds of consumers in the marketplace. Nevertheless, researches on the brand equity concept and its dimensions have been mostly investigated within products and services context; the brand equity concept within a tourism destination context is currently in its infancy (Konecnick Gartner, 2007; Pike, 2007). CONCLUSION: Branding has evolved from product brand to destination brand. However, destination branding is far more complex than branding itself. There are four key factors in the literature review that have been developed. These are destination image, destination personality, destination positioning and finally brand equity. Yet, destination image is still considered as one of the most important aspect for an effective brand. Moreover, the 3-gap tourism destination image formation model is an integral tool for marketers have a better insight of the loopholes that should be tackled when promoting a place. Henceforth, whenever any DMO want to create an effective brand, the four key brands must be given due priority.

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Multicultural Education

This article is a response to a journal entry of a young person view on Multicultural Education in America. This article will have some similarly views and also different view on the education of your young people that is shared with the person who wrote the journal entry. Multicultural Education Only in America can someone have a strong opinion about how we should all be like in there eyes, even when we talk the same, dress the same and live in American but that is as far as it goes. Multicultural Education is unique in many ways and this type of education help build bridges that help young people excel in school and beyond. I agree that we do live in the same country, speak the language, eat the food, and do the entire thing Americans do. I also agree with is statement on the responsibility to teach to the best of there abilities to help students, as educators that it is our job to help student achieve success in school so they can be productive citizens. My assumption of this article is that the students has only seen one part of America and does not see that there are many different cultural and race that make education unique and that this make our students special. I disagree with many of the statement in the journal entry is that he is not concern with cultural or diversity. Every school around the country is divisive and each student is unique in their own special way, each student has different learning style and come from different ethic background. Cultural and Diversity One of the most important concept in teaching that the child come first not matter what cultural or diverse background they come from. As educators we ust focus our attention to the needs of the student because it they are not going to our school we as educators will not have the luxury of paying our bills, feeding our families and do the things we want to do. The focus of education need to reflect the needs of every student and cultural is another part of which this student is and by learning more about who they are we as educators will learn new ways to become effective teachers by listening to their needs. Every child is different and unique, they come many different cu ltural and different background and they each need special attention to how they learn. The diversity in education is also important because students learn better from teachers with similar language background and can relate to them in a special way. For example I can use my native language to explain a concept to my struggling students and make a connection using tools or strategies to help them understand the context. There are many example of how diversity the classroom breeds successes among students, and studies have shown that students learn well in small groups when they share their culture with one another. The important of preserving the cultural in education is very prevalent on the Navajo Nation, we have many different ways we are sharing our cultural with our native students through books, CDs, and many other ways that we share and teach them about the past and present ways of life. It is important to share your cultural with other people just so that they can learn from your people and create an understanding among people and how they live. This help reduces many misconception about different cultural and this help build a bridge of understanding between two people. Another good example of sharing our cultural at the beginning of each school year all new Anglo or African American teacher comes to our school district they experience a one week crash course on what life is like on the Navajo Reservation by having the spend several days and nights with a family in the remote desert of Arizona. They experience life with out electricity, running water and technology as well as share the experience of herding sheep or cattle, butching a sheep or farming crops. This experience for the young teacher is to show them what life is like for our young Navajo students. In Tucson, Arizona there is an elementary school does something similar with their teachers by allowing the new teachers to meet the families of their students at there home and spend sometime getting to know each other. This is helpful because the teacher become part of the family and the students relate better to the teacher, and the student is successful in with there education. There are many other example of how diversity and cultural is used in education to help student become successful in school. Cultural and diversity are interchangeable aspect of education and both complement one another, and can’t have one without the other one. Cultural aspect of education shape our mind and thinking beyond what is being taught at school and diversity is making the connection to who you are as a person drawing from experience and background. The importance of both cultural and diversity is to keep the past alive through stories and books, but to keep traditional alive for people come from different backgrounds and help build a bridge of understanding between two different people and this help the teachers to understand their students. In education the main focus is the students not matter what cultural or diverse background they come from we as educators should do our best to educate them, because they will be our future leaders of this great country called America.

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Industrial Age to Knowledge Age

This transition trot the industrial to the knowledge age has come with its inherent challenges. This article will examine how organizations are being affected by rapid change and complex challenges associated with these transitions. The article will further examine the industrial age embedded in operation and practices of the organization. How the Elementary school Is detected by rapid change and complex challenges associated with the move from Industrial Age to Knowledge Age In the elementary school, where I teach, children are in their budding stages of education This makes the most liable to rapid changes associated with the knowledge age. The knowledge era Is characterized by technological advancements. The use technology in teaching has necessitated frequent adjustment of the qualifications of teachers In elementary school. There are inadequate teaching staffs that are competent in the latest technology that can enhance learning.The competitive landscape coupled with the rapid o f increase in the number of students Interested In technical and science oriented subjects is a big challenge. According to (Hall & Taylor, 1999), â€Å"The knowledge era Is characterized by a new competitive landscape driven by globalization, technology, deregulation, and demagnification (Lull-Been & Russ, 2008, p. 189) On the social front, globalization has led too rapid growth in the number of children drawn from different cultural backgrounds. Even though, this has helped debunk the fallacies that breed racial prejudice; the challenges that affect theInteraction between children In our multiracial elementary school remain insurmountable. Most children remain normalized by the very education system that is meant to create social justice and equality because all students are assessed based on Standard Written English (SEE). There Is a challenge in developing student centered pedagogy and assessment tools that factor in the diversity of our students. There Is d need to overcome th e royalty in lexicography In the classroom and embrace a versatile approach to teaching.There are inadequate staffs who can act as Interpreters tort children who do not understand English as a mode to immunization. Teachers need to remain sensitive to the needs of children from different backgrounds and adopt meaner of education that is responsive to the needs of students (Whites, 2007). B) Industrial age assumptions embedded In operation and current practices of the elementary school There are several industrial age assumptions embedded In the operations and current practices to my school.This ranges from the approach to teaching and learning to the organizational and leadership structures of my school, At my workplace, the education system assumes that all children In the school are Inadequate. The educational system falls to recognize the unique talents and aspirations to every child English language is a compulsory subject. Children who are unable to develop adequate skills are branded failures, and the school puts them through intensive training sessions to fix these inadequacies.The belief that all children are inadequate, and it is the duty of the school to fix them has left some students in limbo despite enormous talents. Some students who are gifted in sports are forced to go through formal training in courses that are not contributory to their careers in the future (Sense, Cameron-McCabe, Lucas, Smith, & Dutton, 2012). The school follows a curriculum that was developed more than fifty years ago. No meaningful adjustments have been made to the curriculum despite data from the school showing that five percent of the student population has special needs.These special needs include physically challenged and some students who have schooling problems. These students are clustered in cohorts with their colleagues based on age. These students are exposed to similar assessments Just like their colleagues and yet they need special considerations based on their needs. This confirms the industrial age assumption, â€Å"Everyone learns, or should learn, in the same way (Sense et al. , 2012). † These children are frustrated because they always come last in academic assessment. As the lead teacher in grade 7, one of my students was always last in every assessment, in social studies.However, the student was excellent in application-based subjects such as Mathematics. Further investigations into this case showed that he had a disturbed childhood and hence could not concentrate in class for a long time. This exposed the unjustifiable classification of children as â€Å"dumb†, clever† when in deed students have unique capabilities, and the circumstances of assessment must be tailored along the unique needs and capacities of students. For this reason, the industrial age assumption â€Å"There are smart kids and dumb kids (Sense et al. 2012)† remains one of our greatest undoing in terms of embracing the knowledge age and remaining responsive to the social, health and economic needs of our students. In a recent parent's meeting, Physical Education lessons have also been hijacked by enthusiastic teachers who want to â€Å"help weak students† to learn and catch up with others. In complete disregard of the need for a child to learn and grow wholesomely, the school has adopted a policy that further curtails holistic growth of students through co-curricular activities.The assumptions â€Å"Learning takes place in the head, not in the body as a whole (Sense et al. , 2012)† and â€Å"Learning takes place in the classroom, not in the world (Sense et al. , 2012)† seem to have inspired this moves. These assumptions are to blame for the â€Å"robots† that schools are churning out annually. In an attempt to show mastery of content, students simply cram glasswork and never appreciate the role of learning and teaching in their future lives.Failure to appreciate studentship as a chance t o integrate students into society and offer them holistic training has been a great disservice to the future generation (Sense et al. , 2012). PART 2: IMPLEMENTATION OF A WORKPLACE POLICY IN THE KNOWLEDGE ERA a) How Elementary School is identifying and responding to these challenges The school is committed to transforming operations and general practice in order to suit learners. For this reason, there are several internal policies. This can be summarized based on The Emergence Dynamic Model.Figure 1 0 The Emergence Dynamic. (Adapted trot Complexity Leadership Theory: Shifting Leadership From the Industrial Age to the Knowledge Age by (Russ, Lull-Been, ; McKinley, 2007, p. 309) The Emergence Dynamic Model constitutes reformulation and self-organization approaches. Reformulation consists of reorganization of preexisting elements to produce qualitatively different outcomes from the original results. My school has made such efforts. They include: I. The school has created a network of interaction among teachers to help tackle these challenges.One of the Deputy Principals meets teachers every fortnight to seek solutions to issues facing the school. I'. Teachers share strategies with other and ampere knowledge on how to improve learning and remain responsive to the challenges that students face. Iii. The school policy requires that teachers in charge of different grades meet often to discuss issues that affect students and handle arising matters. Parent's are encouraged to meet teachers and discuss issues affecting their children. Every semester, there is a parent's meeting. This helps minimize conflicts. V. The School Board meets every month and makes discusses all decisions that they make with teachers and parent's. V. The principal meets the School Management Team to discuss all issues that pertain to the school. This minimizes conflicts. V'. The school has well-structured school rules, behavior goals, and classroom expectations. This enhances learner-centered a nd objective teaching and learning which is in line with the knowledge era. This outlines the punishment that should be mute out for anyone who contravenes the school rules. Ii. The school has a professional conduct policy to enhance professionalism. Viii. The internal policy within the school requires that members of staff who teach every grade must meet often. Parent's are invited to meet teachers to help develop student- centered pedagogy. ‘x. Professional Development Programs: In order to remain responsive to globalization and the challenges that come with the knowledge edge, all teachers are required to upgrade their professional acumen especially in the Information and Technology Sector. ) Impact on the organization and the work of practitioners in the school The changes that the school has implemented have resulted in adaptability, creativity, learning, and thus enhancing the responsiveness of the school to the social, cultural and even economic needs of the children in the elementary school. The school enrolment has rapidly increased since most parent's live that the mode of teaching adopted by the school allows their children to be all round. The increase in the number of admissions had added pressure to the school facilities necessitating investment in new infrastructure.Students have improved in their academic performance. This is due to improved teacher-parent interactions. I have noted that students in grade 7, where I'm the leading teacher, have significantly improved in their grades and are also more responsible with the tasks that we assign them in school. This is attributed to transparency and the learner-centered pedagogy. Most teachers have been motivated to pursue further studies and take technology courses to keep abreast with the knowledge era. All members of staff who had diplomas have now enrolled for degree courses as well as training in technology.This has enhanced human resource development in the country. However, some members of staff were unable to cope with the rapidly changing environment and demands to the knowledge era. A significant number to staffs who were used the â€Å"machine world of teachers in control† have quit the profession. This is because the knowledge era has no room for the industrial age searchers. In conclusion, there are numerous challenges that have emerged against the backdrop of transition from an industrial age to a knowledge age.

Friday, November 8, 2019

Black Man In a White Court essays

Black Man In a White Court essays Mandela was accused on 2 counts, inciting persons to strike illegally and leaving the country without a valid passport. He conducted his own defense. Mandela was on a trial, he being a black man judged in a white court of justice. Mandela pointed that this case is a trial of aspirations of the African people, so he wanted to state perfectly clear that the remarks he was going to say were not addressed to Your Worship, nor integrity of the court. Mandela stated that he detested racism whether it comes from a black person or a white person. First he challenged the grounds of the case because he feared that he would not be given a fair and proper trial because it involves a clash of the aspirations of the African people and those whites. Its improper and against elementary principles of justice to entrust whites with cases involving blacks. A judiciary controlled entirely by whites will manipulate the verdict, said Mandela; sadly there was no such court. Mandela continued to show the un fair discrimination throughout his life full of injustices; by effect, he feared that this court would be result of the same injustice. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states to equal protection of the law, but the real truth was that there was no equality before the law whatsoever among blacks and whites. Also, Mandela explained how the white men create the laws and judges blacks according to them. I feel oppressed by the atmosphere of white denomination and recalled that it was the white vote which really counted Mandela demonstrated his first ground of application: That he wouldnt receive a fair trial. The second was that he wasnt obligated to obey laws made b a parliament in which he did not represented. Black people struggle against color discrimination and pursuit of freedom and happiness, while whites struggle for power. Mandelas plead was dismissed by the judge and the trial began. The court fragment of Mande...

Sunday, November 3, 2019

Emoji in Communication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Emoji in Communication - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that the word emoji derives its meaning from two words; emotions and a Japanese word kanji which means Japanese character. Emoji is defined as an image or an expressive face or cartoon that is used to convey emotions in writing on cell phones, texts or online chats. Over the past few years, emoji have gained popularity like never before. This can directly be associated with the rapid advance and the takeover of the social media as primary means of communication. With platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram among others, emoji have become a more relevant means of communication to most people. There are individuals who find it more efficient to express their emotions with the help of emoji other than the use of words. However, this can be misinterpreted by other people to mean that an individual is poor in writing or has little interest in a given conversation. The popularity of emoji is no doubt at its pick but there is a question ab out its sustainability in communication. Emoji has a setback of misinterpretation. In as much as they are universal, they can easily be misinterpreted and eventually render ineffective communication. Nonetheless, Wroclawski sees a high potential for emoji to go above this setback and unify global communication. The reason for this is that Emoji does not require special skills to interpret. The use of emoji has turned to be a new language on its own. With over 470 million joy emoji being used on twitter today, this might be the birth of a new language on its own.

Friday, November 1, 2019

Business IT A Professional Issues Group Report Essay

Business IT A Professional Issues Group Report - Essay Example Improving treatment of depression in primary care requires properly organized treatment programmes, regular follow-up, monitoring of treatment adherence, and a prominent role for the mental health specialist as educator, consultant, guide and clinician. Future research should focus on how guidelines are best implemented in routine practice, since conventional strategies are not displaying any substantial improvement in their impact on patients. *Shifting patients away from mental health specialists decreases costs but worsens functioning outcomes. The appropriate strategy for making care for depression treatment cost-effective is through quality improvement and not through changing specialty mix. *Psychologists managing patients on antidepressant medications did as well as psychiatrists in reducing functioning limitations and were superior to primary care physicians.) *Pharmacotherapy be preferred over psychotherapy for the severely depressed, cognitive therapy, with supportive management. Either medication or psychotherapy could serve as the initial treatment for patients with mild or moderate depression. Our summation is that the idea to turn treatment of depression over to primary care physicians using antidepressant medications