Kant and Sexual Morality Essay

German Philosopher Immanuel Kant claimed that it is morally wrong to use a person merely as a means to your end. This judgement helps us to understand and determined sexual morality. Thomas A. Mappes supports Kant’s claims and helps to further explain Kant’s statement by defining it and introducing the idea that one must give their voluntary informed consent in order for certain actions to be moral. Mappes also illustrates that voluntary informed consent can be undermined through both deception and coercion. This helps us in the understanding of sexual morality. It is important to understand what Kant means when claiming that it is morally wrong to use another person merely as a means to your end when making the decision whether or not this statement is relevant when talking about sexual morality. The word merely is where this statement claims immorality to be. Merely meaning only and without any consideration of another person by not showing them any human respect. We use people as a means to our end in everyday situations. If we are hungry we go to a shop and buy food. We are using the shopkeepers as a means to our end, when hunger is our end. However, we are not merely using the shopkeeper as a means to our end. Thomas Mappes explains this by saying if we are treating someone merely as a means to our end, then we are not respecting him or her as human beings. Voluntary informed consent, according to Mappes (p. 73 of course book) is central to the notion of treating people merely as a means to an end. Voluntary informed consent is where the person who is being used as a means to an end has given their full permission and consent. They are aware of what the person is trying to achieve and are willing to give their consent to this. Mappes uses the example of a person who has a gun put to their head and are forced to hand over $200. Although the person has given them the money, they did not do this voluntarily, therefore did not give their voluntary informed consent. However, if the person had asked for $200 and they were given the option to give the money without being forced, and choose to hand it over as a gift, then they have given their voluntary informed consent. Voluntary informed consent is important when looking at sexual morality, as if one has not given their voluntary informed consent to a partner, then it is morally wrong to pursue any sexual acts with them. According to Mappes, Voluntary informed consent can be undermined in two ways: deception and coercion. Coercion meaning forced to make voluntary informed consent and deception being tricked into voluntary informed consent. When making a judgement on the morality of sexual behaviour it is important to consider whether deception or coercion have influenced the voluntary informed consent of the subject. If there is no voluntary informed consent, then a person is being used merely as a means to another persons end. This support Kant’s claim on morality, and is therefore immoral. Coercion into consent is easily to identify. As with the example of a person being forced to hand over $200 with the threat of a gun, they were being forced/coerced into their decision to hand over the money. When there is no voluntary informed consent, as the consent is not voluntary. Coercion can be important when determining the morality in sexual behaviour. If one is forced or blackmailed into having sex with another, this is coercive and using someone merely as a means to an end. Identifying Deception when looking at the morality of sexual behaviour, and determining whether or not it supports Kant’s claim is important before making a moral judgment. Deception is being tricked into making informed consent. And example of deception is subject A. telling subject B. that they love them, as subject A. knows that subject B. will only enter into a sexual relationship if both parties have a mutual love for one another. This is deceiving subject B. into giving their voluntary informed consent into entering a sexual relationship. This is immoral, as voluntary informed consent has been undermined by deception. When looking at Kant’s claim it is easy to determined the morality in this situation as subject as has merely used subject B in order to fulfil their sexual wants. It is also important to consider whether the decision was informed. 3. As seen in page. 76 of the course book, some could argue that a child or someone with severe learning difficulties is still able to give voluntary consent. This is true, but a child or person with severe learning difficulties is unable to give informed consent. If someone is to endeavour in sexual behaviours with a child or a person with learning difficulties, then it is clear they are using them for their own sexual gratification, and not respecting the person whom they are using. As Kant claims, this is morally unacceptable. When thinking about the morality of sexual behaviour it is hard to ignore that of homosexual relationships and/or homosexual sex. When looking at Kant’s statement that it is immoral to use another person merely as a means to your ends and Mappes further explanation of voluntary informed consent, we can establish he morality of homosexual behaviour. Michael Levin (1999 p. 125-126) claims homosexuality to be immoral. He also makes that statement that they are victims and have unflattering beliefs. Levin (1999 p. 126) claims â€Å"homosexuality is deviant†¦ [and] homosexuals have no place in the military if they weaken morale, and there are good reasons to think they do [weaken morale]† When looking at Kant’s philosophy, and his definition of morality, it becomes clear that Levins claims are assumptions, especially that homosexuals would weaken the morale in the military. There is nothing in his claims to suggest that homosexuals would coerce, deceive and use another merely as a means to their sexual ends within the military. Therefore, when looking at Kant’s claims, regardless whether a person is homosexual or heterosexual, the morality of sexual behaviour can only established when one is using another without human respect and merely as a means to their ends. John Corvino also refers to the morality of homosexual relationships. His views vary considerably from Levins. Corvino (1997 p,6) addresses the idea that homosexual sex is unnatural and therefore immoral. Corvino defends the right to a homosexual relationship by comparing the use of sexual organs to others. We have numerous uses for our mouth such as talking, eating, breathing, chewing gum etc and Corvino states that sexual organs may be useful in a relationship other than just procreation. Corvino makes reference to the churches view on sexual behaviour. Although the church disapproves of homosexual behaviour, Corvino (1997 p. 6) highlights that they do not see anything wrong with sterile couples having sex or couples who are pregnant as the church concedes that intimacy and pleasure are morally legitimate purposes for having sex. Corvino suggests that although there is no chance of procreation in homosexual sex, there is nothing immoral about it. Corvino’s view supports Kant’s claim of morality. Unless there is something to suggest one is merely being used by another sexually, then there are no grounds to suggest homosexuality is immoral. Kant’s claim that it is morally wrong to use someone merely as a means to your ends, helps us in our judgements regarding sexual morality. Through Thomas A. Mappes explanation of Kant’s claim and introducing the idea of voluntary informed consent, and how it can be undermined through deception and coercion, we are able to clearly distinguish whether or not a persons sexual behaviours are moral or not. Kant’s claim suggest that there is nothing immoral about homosexual behaviour, unless one is merely being used as an end, as in heterosexual relationships. The idea of homosexuality being unnatural had nothing to do with its morality when looking at Kant’s claim.

Mental Illness

The social construction of mental illness Key Words * Career: The gradual change in people as a response to a label e. g. mental patient. * Learned Helplessness: learning how to be dependent. * Life-course model: suggests that the accumulation of social events experienced over a whole lifetime, not just individual important events, influence people and their mental state. * Presenting culture: a term used by Goffman to refer to how people like to portray themselves to others. * Schizophrenia: a form of mental illness where people are unable to distinguish their own feelings and perceptions from reality. Self-Fulfilling prophecy: predictions about the behaviour of social groups that come true as a result of positive or negative labelling. * Social Capital: refers to a network of social contacts. * Social constructionism: the approach which suggests that mental illness exists because people believe that it does. * Social realism: a sociological approach which suggests that mental illne ss does really exist. Summary Mental illness is the less fortunate twin to physical illness. The NHS is not funding enough support for mental health patients and the attention paid to it is minimal.Mental health is a major problem in society with one in seven people claiming to have had mental health problems at some point in their lives. Social Trends 2007 (Self and Zealey 2007) said that about one in six British people aged 16 to 74 reported experiencing a neurotic disorder in the seven days before a national survey on mental health. When looking at which group is most likely to suffer from high rates of mental illness, the poorest and most excluded are majorly overrepresented. Defining mental illness Social Realism: A general term used to describe the approaches of sociologists who accept that there are distinctive sets of abnormal behaviour that cause distress to individuals and those around them. * Pilgrim and Rogers (1999) accept that, at different times and in different cultu res, there are variations in what is considered as mental illness. * Although mental illness may have different names and sometimes not be recognized, it does actually exist as a real condition. * Similar to the bio-medical approach which believes that symptoms can be scientifically diagnosed and categorized.They see treatment as allopathic (cure orientated through the use of drugs, shock treatment and surgery etc. * They recommend that sufferers be isolated from wider society. Social constructionism: * Have been very influential in sociological approaches to mental illness and start from the argument that what is considered as normal varies over time and from society to society. * Greater extremes of behaviour have been seen as normal in some societies and symptoms of madness in others. Labelling perspective: Labelling theory examines how the labelling of mental illness occurs in the first place and what effects it has on those who are labelled. * Thomas Szasz (1973) argues that th e label ‘mental illness’ is simply a convenient way to deal with behaviour that people find disruptive. He is particularly critical of psychiatrists for diagnosing children with ADHD and calling it a disease. He says that giving a child a drug for a mythical disease is a form of physical child abuse because the child has no say in the matter. Labelling theory therefore rests firmly upon a social constructionist definition of mental illness. The effects of labelling * Scheff (1966) said that whether someone becomes labelled or not is determined by the benefits those others might gain by labelling the person ‘mentally ill’. So, those who become a nuisance are far more likely to become diagnosed as mentally ill as someone who causes no problems. * Once labelled, there are a number of negative consequences for the person because it is then assumed that all their behaviour is evidence of their mental state. Erving Goffman (1961) followed the careers of people wh o were genuinely defined as being mentally ill. He suggested that once in an institution people are stripped of their presenting culture. Criticisms of the labelling perspective * Gove (1982) suggests that the vast majority of people who receive treatment for mental illness actually have serious problems before they are treated so the argument that the labels cause the problems is wrong. It may explain the responses of others to the mentally ill, but cannot explain the causes of the illness.Foucault’s perspective on mental illness: * He explains the growth in the concept of mental illness by placing it in the context if the changing ways of thinking and acting which developed in the early 18th century. * During the enlightenment more traditional ways of thinking were gradually replaced by more rational and disciplined ways of thinking. He argues that as rationality developed into the normal way of thinking, irrationality became to be perceived as deviant. * Having mad people in asylums isolated mad people away from the majority of the population.They symbolized the fact that madness or irrationality was marked out as behaviour that is no longer acceptable. Structuralist perspectives on mental illness: * Virde (1977) explained the fact that some ethnic minorities are more likely to develop mental health problems by arguing that the sorts of pressures and stresses that can cause people to develop mental illness are more often experienced by people in an ethnic minority. * Nazroo is critical of this approach. He points out that people of the Bangladeshi origin who are victims of racism have lower levels of mental illness than the general population.He concludes that mental illness cannot just be caused by racism and deprivation. * Brown et al (1995) explained that women are more likely to lead stressful lives because they have the dial burden and triple shift. * Labelling theorists (Chelser 1972), say that women are more likely to be seen as mentally ill b ecause the defining of illness is mainly done by males. * Link and Phelan (1995) reviewed all the evidence and concluded that research pointed out a relationship between low levels of deprivation and mental illness.Social capital (Putnam 2000) argued that people who have extensive and strong levels of social networks are more likely to be ‘happier’ than those who don’t. Check Your Understanding: 1) The two sociological approaches to explaining mental illness are social realist and social constructionist. 2) Social realist bases itself on the idea that there are distinctive sets of abnormal behaviour that should be treated; they are very similar to the bio-medical approach.Social constructionist believes that definitions of mental illness can vary over time and in different cultures. 3) Labelling helps us understand that some people may live up to the label they have been given and can strip mental health patients of any self-dignity as they have no say in what ha ppens to them as they have been given the label of someone who is mad. 4) A structural explanation is closely tied to the social realist definition of mental illness; they accept the reality of mental illness and set out to discover what social factors help cause them. ) Busfield says that it is true that some groups are more likely to find their behaviour defined as mental illness, compared to the behaviour of other groups however al of those groups experience higher levels of stress so mental illness would be higher. 6) They are more likely to show cultural characterises that are not seen as normal in a wider society. 7) They use the idea that women have more responsibilities than men and that the defining of mental illness tends to be dominated by male health professionals. Mental Illness The social construction of mental illness Key Words * Career: The gradual change in people as a response to a label e. g. mental patient. * Learned Helplessness: learning how to be dependent. * Life-course model: suggests that the accumulation of social events experienced over a whole lifetime, not just individual important events, influence people and their mental state. * Presenting culture: a term used by Goffman to refer to how people like to portray themselves to others. * Schizophrenia: a form of mental illness where people are unable to distinguish their own feelings and perceptions from reality. Self-Fulfilling prophecy: predictions about the behaviour of social groups that come true as a result of positive or negative labelling. * Social Capital: refers to a network of social contacts. * Social constructionism: the approach which suggests that mental illness exists because people believe that it does. * Social realism: a sociological approach which suggests that mental illne ss does really exist. Summary Mental illness is the less fortunate twin to physical illness. The NHS is not funding enough support for mental health patients and the attention paid to it is minimal.Mental health is a major problem in society with one in seven people claiming to have had mental health problems at some point in their lives. Social Trends 2007 (Self and Zealey 2007) said that about one in six British people aged 16 to 74 reported experiencing a neurotic disorder in the seven days before a national survey on mental health. When looking at which group is most likely to suffer from high rates of mental illness, the poorest and most excluded are majorly overrepresented. Defining mental illness Social Realism: A general term used to describe the approaches of sociologists who accept that there are distinctive sets of abnormal behaviour that cause distress to individuals and those around them. * Pilgrim and Rogers (1999) accept that, at different times and in different cultu res, there are variations in what is considered as mental illness. * Although mental illness may have different names and sometimes not be recognized, it does actually exist as a real condition. * Similar to the bio-medical approach which believes that symptoms can be scientifically diagnosed and categorized.They see treatment as allopathic (cure orientated through the use of drugs, shock treatment and surgery etc. * They recommend that sufferers be isolated from wider society. Social constructionism: * Have been very influential in sociological approaches to mental illness and start from the argument that what is considered as normal varies over time and from society to society. * Greater extremes of behaviour have been seen as normal in some societies and symptoms of madness in others. Labelling perspective: Labelling theory examines how the labelling of mental illness occurs in the first place and what effects it has on those who are labelled. * Thomas Szasz (1973) argues that th e label ‘mental illness’ is simply a convenient way to deal with behaviour that people find disruptive. He is particularly critical of psychiatrists for diagnosing children with ADHD and calling it a disease. He says that giving a child a drug for a mythical disease is a form of physical child abuse because the child has no say in the matter. Labelling theory therefore rests firmly upon a social constructionist definition of mental illness. The effects of labelling * Scheff (1966) said that whether someone becomes labelled or not is determined by the benefits those others might gain by labelling the person ‘mentally ill’. So, those who become a nuisance are far more likely to become diagnosed as mentally ill as someone who causes no problems. * Once labelled, there are a number of negative consequences for the person because it is then assumed that all their behaviour is evidence of their mental state. Erving Goffman (1961) followed the careers of people wh o were genuinely defined as being mentally ill. He suggested that once in an institution people are stripped of their presenting culture. Criticisms of the labelling perspective * Gove (1982) suggests that the vast majority of people who receive treatment for mental illness actually have serious problems before they are treated so the argument that the labels cause the problems is wrong. It may explain the responses of others to the mentally ill, but cannot explain the causes of the illness.Foucault’s perspective on mental illness: * He explains the growth in the concept of mental illness by placing it in the context if the changing ways of thinking and acting which developed in the early 18th century. * During the enlightenment more traditional ways of thinking were gradually replaced by more rational and disciplined ways of thinking. He argues that as rationality developed into the normal way of thinking, irrationality became to be perceived as deviant. * Having mad people in asylums isolated mad people away from the majority of the population.They symbolized the fact that madness or irrationality was marked out as behaviour that is no longer acceptable. Structuralist perspectives on mental illness: * Virde (1977) explained the fact that some ethnic minorities are more likely to develop mental health problems by arguing that the sorts of pressures and stresses that can cause people to develop mental illness are more often experienced by people in an ethnic minority. * Nazroo is critical of this approach. He points out that people of the Bangladeshi origin who are victims of racism have lower levels of mental illness than the general population.He concludes that mental illness cannot just be caused by racism and deprivation. * Brown et al (1995) explained that women are more likely to lead stressful lives because they have the dial burden and triple shift. * Labelling theorists (Chelser 1972), say that women are more likely to be seen as mentally ill b ecause the defining of illness is mainly done by males. * Link and Phelan (1995) reviewed all the evidence and concluded that research pointed out a relationship between low levels of deprivation and mental illness.Social capital (Putnam 2000) argued that people who have extensive and strong levels of social networks are more likely to be ‘happier’ than those who don’t. Check Your Understanding: 1) The two sociological approaches to explaining mental illness are social realist and social constructionist. 2) Social realist bases itself on the idea that there are distinctive sets of abnormal behaviour that should be treated; they are very similar to the bio-medical approach.Social constructionist believes that definitions of mental illness can vary over time and in different cultures. 3) Labelling helps us understand that some people may live up to the label they have been given and can strip mental health patients of any self-dignity as they have no say in what ha ppens to them as they have been given the label of someone who is mad. 4) A structural explanation is closely tied to the social realist definition of mental illness; they accept the reality of mental illness and set out to discover what social factors help cause them. ) Busfield says that it is true that some groups are more likely to find their behaviour defined as mental illness, compared to the behaviour of other groups however al of those groups experience higher levels of stress so mental illness would be higher. 6) They are more likely to show cultural characterises that are not seen as normal in a wider society. 7) They use the idea that women have more responsibilities than men and that the defining of mental illness tends to be dominated by male health professionals.

Capturing Tacit Knowledge In Squh Free-Samples for Students

According to Caimo & Lomi (2015), knowledge is a vital aspect of an organizational resource as it aids in the provision of a viable competitive advantage in a diverse and competitive market. Knowledge can be understood and defined in various way. For instance, Lehrer defines knowledge as what we know and understanding of what is false. Similarly, Wang and Hou, (2015), states that knowledge is processed information that entails ideas, facts, experience, and judgment relevant for a person, group, and organizational outcome. Therefore, for organizations to enhance dominance in the market, Caimo & Lomi (2015) reiterates that it’s essential for firms to depend on staffing and training methods that emphasize on the acquisition of workers that have particular knowledge, abilities, or capabilities or assisting employees to obtain them. Hence, the institute must put into consideration various ways to transfer knowledge from specialists that have the experience to trainees that needs it . As such, most organizations employ innovations in the management of this information and enhanced storage manner. However, the technological ways are not able to protect informational materials found in a person’s mind that have been stored for some years of studies, abilities, and experience. Notably, Srinivas (2016) identifies that there are two types of knowledge: explicit and tacit knowledge with the latter being expressed in books and speeches while tacit resides in mind and characters of an individual. According to Joe, Yoong, & Patel (2013) affirms that like other health centers and organizations, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH) experience loss of knowledge due to a significant portion of its older experts leaving the facility due to retirement. Therefore, this paper explores knowledge capturing process in SQUH, the value of knowledge exchange, challenges and opportunities of tacit knowledge, and various methods of capturing tacit knowledge in SQUH. According to Sherwood (2013, p. 16), knowledge acquisition is in various methods, and executives and managers understand the importance of knowledge in the success of an organization. Knowledge management provides a vital factor when struggling in the competitive market since most clients visit facilities that they perceive to have skilled experts. Based on Srinivas (2016) studies, knowledge comes in two forms: explicit and tacit. Explicit Knowledge can be easily transferred from an individual to a given populace through the web, speech, and books while tacit is hard to transfer since it resides in peoples' mind and characters. Therefore, most organizations including SQUH employs an explicit form of knowledge management since individual’s knowledge in an institution can be expressed and made clear. Also, the health facility management believes that the approach can be incorporated to assist staffs in sharing information they entail to develop knowledge assets. The integration of information management systems within the Institute plays a significant role in enhancing the spread of explicit material assets over the hospital’s intranet, thus, helps in efficient patient management. Additionally, the hospital employs experiments and various factors of structured processes that are developed to remedy the lack of information that it essential to the health center. According to Caimo & Lomi, (2015), knowledge is one of the constant rising organizational assets such as management systems, brand identity, client information, and institutional character. It’s an important virtue in humans as it indicates grouped expertise and efforts of connections and associations. Most of the duties performed by workers are usually knowledge based, thus, a critical driver to corporates success. As such, the importance of knowledge is observed when it entails core functions and focuses on mission, fundamental values, and strategic significances. Therefore, in case the hospital reorganizes or changes its culture of knowledge management, Caimo & Lomi (2015) claims that valuable knowledge will diminish since staffs that leave the facility move with their valuable information, resources, abilities, and experience. Those that are employed or stays can be given new tasks and never incorporate their wealth of stored knowledge. Since the organization integrates both tacit and explicit knowledge systems, employees practice various perspectives to find a solution to a given problem. Hence, they share information and teams physical and intellectual possessions in current and creative styles. This allows the hospital management to exploit and utilize on knowledge-based activities, thus, aids in minimizing the cost of production, enhanced completion of creation of new merchandise, group activities, innovation capabilities and income generation. Based on Nesheim & Gressgà ¥rd, (2014) research on knowledge management, provision of relevan t materials at the time of necessity by use of structure, search, syndication, and support knowledge exchange, provides room for developing good decisions. According to Chen, Lin, & Yen (2014) teamwork promotes different opinions, and diverse experiences during the decision-making process, hence, enables decisions to be created on genuine understanding. Conspicuously, it facilitates smooth and timely completion of responsibilities such as finding a solution to a problem, analyzing markets, benchmarking against co-workers, and understanding competition. Chen, Lin, & Yen (2014) articulates that active and efficient knowledge management process enhance reuse of already developed information that eventually helps to reduce rework, avoid problems, saves time, and hasten progress. Sharing of knowledge among the employees as well aids in avoiding redundancy at work, therefore, saves money and streamline events. Remarkably, transfer of knowledge between personnel helps in preventing similar mistakes in the future, and this is usually accelerated by a culture of trust and openness within the workers. Also, Chen, Lin, & Yen (2014) argues that knowledge gained from a fellow employee assist an individual to learn from their experience and use it to their advantage in the management of patients and to perform other tasks. Moreover, enhancing the exchange of knowledge within the facility limits skill gaps since new staffs such as students in the internship, attachment, and recruited employees can quickly acquire the talents. When workers share thoughts and resources among themselves there is a feeling of a common objective being pursued, thus, boosts interest and strengthens every individual to exchange knowledge. According to Wang & Hou, (2015) knowledge helps employees to acquire more than they lose through sharing since the transfer of information is a synergistic method, hence, build one's morale when performing a given role. Knowledge exchange also enables provision of skills and abilities that are in demand due to their short supply in organizations mainly through the formation of discussion forums, training workshops, and ask the expert approach. For instance Wang & Hou, (2015) states that material sharing, reuse, and inventions can primarily minimize the time required to provide services to clients, thus, provides a competitive advantage to the hospital. With recent developments in the health sector such as the invention of Trakcare technology to enhance efficient patient management in SQUH, most of its staffs acquire skills and knowledge concerning their domain, competitive space, and customer requirements. As the ability to operate the machine develops, it becomes more significant for the organization to protect, nurture, and utilize recognized operators of the technique. According to Bessick & Naicker (2013) this is usually gained by employees that are not willing to document or share obtained expertise. Just like institutions that don't consider dissemination of information, workers frequently become the primary owner of the knowledge, thus, making the knowledge extinct in case the person retires or leaves the organization. According to Bessick & Naicker (2013), to store knowledge, management must target four areas to ensure knowledge dissemination and efficient application through teamwork. This includes governance role, staff activities, accepting operation occupation to develop, recreate, organize, and transmit knowledge properties. Drucker (as cited by Bessick and Naicker, 2013) states that for knowledge process to be significant, captured, and determined, it must pass through three levels. These entails utility of creative knowledge, consideration of knowledge workers as a valuable asset to an organization, and incorporation of formal educative programs to enable staffs to apply their ability both theoretically and analytically. Therefore, the following are barriers that occur in SQUH that deters acquisition of tacit knowledge among its employees. Br?i? & Miheli? (2015), asserts that age affects the transfer of tacit knowledge as some staffs consider themselves to be superior to their counterparts. This is because each generation is subjective to numerous factors that form a respective value system distinguishing them from individuals that grew at various times. For instance, students on internship find it difficult to relate with their seniors due to age difference, and this systematically leads to lack of appropriate knowledge transfer. Conversantly, gender also impact acquisition of this knowledge as some employees don’t easily interact with workers of opposite sex. SQUH incorporates several staffs such as nurses, doctors, administrator, human resource officer, and casuals. This entails that different employees have various ranks according to their level of education. However, most important are the doctors and nurses as they are entitled to patients that are major clients of the facility. Hence, Chuang, Jackson, & Jiang (2016) postulate that different level of study between nurses and physicians prevent smooth interaction and consultation, thus, minimizes the opportunity of attaining tacit knowledge. For instance, doctors might perceive their interaction with nurses to be diminishing their profession, therefore, relate easily with other specialists. Additionally, Br?i? & Miheli? (2015) reiterates that inadequacy of trust and failure embrace possession of intellectual stuff by various employees, thus, diminishes the ability of one to transfer tacit knowledge to the other. Based on Chuang, Jackson, & Jiang (2016) studies that poor managerial and leadership style in an organization that can’t integrate current information management systems also aids in deterring transmission of this knowledge from an individual. Moreover, leadership that fails to develop policies that are focused on knowledge retention enhance loss of informational materials from the experts. Lack of incorporation and compatibility of information technology structures and process leads to loss of tacit knowledge among the employees in SQUH. As such there is lack of technical support and communication between staffs at different departments, hence, leading to retention of knowledge by presumed experts. Likewise, the administration doesn’t demonstrate the importance of new techniques in inclination to the existing ones, thus, contributes to a reduction in knowledge sharing. Tong, Tak, & Wong (2015) articulates that knowledge creation in a firm entails making accessible and strengthening information that is made by entities as well as forming and integrating it into a facility’s knowledge structure. The major contributors to knowledge development grounds on numerous studies of information making in innovative Japanese Enterprises that eventually confirmed that knowledge creation bases on four models of knowledge exchange. The knowledge development involves Socialization, Externalization, Combination, and Internalization that is commonly known as SECI model. Significantly, Easa, 2012 claims that achievement of most Japanese Companies relied on their capability to generate innovative organizational knowledge centered on a cyclic model of endless interactions and conversion of tacit and explicit materials on three stages: individuals, groups, and institute. Globally, the framework has become widely recognized by scholars in categorizing, constructing, documenting, sharing, and exchanging knowledge from a Knowledge Management perception. The figure below indicate the four channels of SECI model. According to Easa (2012) the method transforms tacit knowledge to new tacit information by enhancing exchange of experience, skills, and opinions and majorly it occurs through social and cultural activities organized by organization such as team building. Typically it takes place in a traditional form other than through documented manuals or books. Additionally, it can occur during informal social gatherings outside the institute in which tacit knowledge like worldviews, mental models, and friendship is developed and shared. Also, it can be drawn up beyond hospital’s boundaries such as interaction with clients and suppliers. Easa (2012) states that this technique changes tacit knowledge into explicit knowledge that occurs when the organization attributes its inside rules of happenings formally or when it openly sets their goals that quickly captures through writing or computerization. Therefore, by converting tacit knowledge to explicit, it enables easy sharing, hence, becomes the significant source of new information. As such, capturing of tacit knowledge is eased since the experienced staff can easily put the tacit knowledge into writings that can be read by other members. The process articulates explicit knowledge into various systematic groups of explicit knowledge. Easa (2012) reiterates that explicit information is derived either from inside or outside the facility then fused, edited or managed to create new insights. Combination involves changing of explicit knowledge into more detailed and logical sets of clear understanding. The developed knowledge is then shared among various employees, and it can be facilitated by creative incorporation of online communication systems and databases. For instance, when the hospital’s auditor gathers data from different departments and assembles them in a context to create a financial report, the report is regarded as a new knowledge since it integrates information from various sources in a single context. Easa (2012) indicates that the process transfers explicit knowledge to tacit knowledge indicating that explicit knowledge is internalized to obtain tacit knowledge. By internalizing, any development of explicit knowledge is exchanged between staffs and transformed into tacit informative materials through individuals. Internalization is almost similar to learning by performing, for instance, creation of training programs can assist trainees to apprehend the institution or reading documented manuals concerning their job descriptions can help them internalize explicit knowledge contained in such files to enhance their tacit knowledge. Similarly, the acquired tacit knowledge at personal level can then enable a new set of knowledge making when it’s exchanged between personnel by socialization method. Tounkara (2015) argues that knowledge sharing is a major challenge for many organizations and significantly those that bases their approach on knowledge codification through employing knowledge engineering means. Most of these institutes experience a significant problem as their knowledge repository is used by few individuals. Since tacit knowledge is that information found in a person’s mind and attributes that is unique and once possessed can be a greater boost to a company’s achievement. However, the knowledge is significantly individualized and difficult to formalize, hence, hard to communicate to other populace. For example, Tounkara (2015) identifies that tacit knowledge occurs in two scopes: technical dimension that entails the â€Å"know-how,† and cognitive aspect that encompasses beliefs, ideas, and values that most are taken for granted. Therefore, tacit knowledge is a non-codified know-how that is obtained through informal take-up of educated traits and procedures. However, tacit knowledge is still a new domain that is not known by several managers, thus, depends on their natural ability to enhance correct decisions making process. As such, institutions that seek to propel their competitive advantage in the market has to integrate environment that enables employees to verbalize their tacit materials. General staffs, therefore, needs to exploit their addition to the group of ideas that facilitates a competitive edge to the facility. In SQUH different strategies are used to capture tacit knowledge among various experts that are seen to be viable for success of the firm. Harmaala (2014) argues that face-to-face interaction among colleagues in the hospital has been observed as the primary channel for sharing tacit knowledge with the most common model being expert-novice model. Quietly, it’s always believed that the new recruits, novice employees learns from their senior specialist, but the advantages occur when both are involved in sharing their ideas and opinions. Nevertheless, to support success of the model persons are required to develop trust and motivation among themselves. Moreover, Harmaala (2014) claims that individual system is also considered as a way of capturing tacit knowledge from workers. This is enhanced through cycling of tasks in which staffs performing similar roles can exchange their work, thus, enables personnel to discuss their capability and ideas together after the transfer duration. Similarly, based on Harmaala (2014) incorporation of teamwork through pairing of staffs when performing their roles enhance sharing of ideas, skills, views, and experiences. Therefore, new updated operational styles are developed, and the tacit knowledge is retained within the hospital. A common method of capturing tacit knowledge in the institution via pair work include mentoring and expert-novice. The university hospital has majored mostly on mentoring as a technique since the experienced personnel provides advice, guidance, and support for the newly recruited staffs. The method focuses on individuals own objectives and professional growth that is opposed to organization’s stated goals. Additionally, through mentorship one is able to acquire various skills and ideas that are shown by the senior employee, thus, helps in smooth transfer of the knowledge. Significantly, integration of teamwork by management as a means of apprehending tacit knowledge has helped in retaining significant information from experienced personnel. However, Harmaala (2014) claims that the approach is useful when participants are of different age brackets and different experience. Usually, every attendant must co-operate, hence, share ideas and thoughts. As such, it provides deeper exploration of solutions to a problem as it involves diverse views from individuals that are facilitated through communication, knowledge transfer, and questions to obtain best results. According to Harmaala (2014) the system of externalization that entails exchange of tacit information to explicit knowledge has been incorporated in the workforce mainly by interviewing individuals and documenting their knowledge. However, the technique provides a challenge since it’s hard to include expressions, emotions, and actions in a text manner. This leads to loss of various amount of educational materials and knowledge that can be useful to the organization.    Knowledge is a primary factor that needs consideration by managers when making company’s decision to enhance success of an organization. Knowledge is of two dimensions: explicit and tacit in which the latter can be acquired through books and print media while the second resides in people's mind and characters. However, technology can’t transform this knowledge found in individuals mind to other populace, hence, the need to develop various techniques to enable its sharing. Various methods have been integrated into SQUH to help in acquisition of this knowledge such as through encouraging socialization, internalization, combination, and externalization commonly known as SECI model. Additionally, the hospital has developed different ways of capturing this knowledge by incorporating mechanisms like encouraging face-to-face interactions, teamwork, and mentorship among employees. Conversely, the institution faces numerous hindrance in integrating this knowledge. Some of the ba rriers include difference in educational levels of the staffs that prevent dynamic interactions, sex and age of personnel also inhibit sharing of tacit information, and technology adoption among workers. Therefore, to facilitate exchange of this knowledge, SQUH needs to incorporate different mechanism such as encouraging more outdoor socialization that certainly improves knowledge sharing Bessick, J. and Naicker, V., 2013. Barriers to tacit knowledge retention: an understanding of the perceptions of the knowledge management of people inside and outside the organisation: original research. South African Journal of Information Management, 15(2), pp.1-8. Br?i?, Ã… ½.J. and Miheli?, K.K., 2015. Knowledge sharing between different generations of employees: an example from Slovenia. Economic Research-Ekonomska IstraÃ… ¾ivanja, 28(1), pp.853-867. Caimo, A. and Lomi, A., 2015. Knowledge sharing in organizations: A Bayesian analysis of the role of reciprocity and formal structure.  Journal of Management,  41(2), pp.665-691. Chen, Y.H., Lin, T.P. and Yen, D.C., 2014. How to facilitate inter-organizational knowledge sharing: The impact of trust. Information & Management, 51(5), pp.568-578. Chuang, C.H., Jackson, S.E. and Jiang, Y., 2016. Can knowledge-intensive teamwork be managed? Examining the roles of HRM systems, leadership, and tacit knowledge. Journal of management, 42(2), pp.524-554. Easa, N., 2012. Knowledge creation process & Innovation in Egyptian Banking Sector. In Organization Learning, Knowledge and Capabilities Conference. Harmaala, M., 2014. The Tacit Power: Case study: Maintpartner. Joe, C., Yoong, P. and Patel, K., 2013. Knowledge loss when older experts leave knowledge-intensive organisations.  Journal of Knowledge Management,  17(6), pp.913-927. Lehrer, K., 2015.  Theory of knowledge. Routledge Nesheim, T. and Gressgà ¥rd, L.J., 2014. Knowledge sharing in a complex organization: Antecedents and safety effects. Safety science, 62, pp.28-36. Sherwood, W.R., 2013.  A case study: Barriers preventing the capture of tacit knowledge in small manufacturing companies  (Doctoral dissertation, Baker College (Michigan)). Srinivas, S.A.S., 2016. Driving Knowledge Sharing Initiatives for Enhanced Collaboration in Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) Libraries–A Case Study.  Electronic Journal of Knowledge Management,  14(1). Tong, C., Tak, W.I.W. and Wong, A., 2015. The Impact of knowledge sharing on the relationship between organizational culture and Job satisfaction: The perception of information communication and technology (ICT) practitioners in Hong Kong. International Journal of Human Resource Studies, 5(1), p.19. Tounkara, T., 2015. Increasing transferability of tacit knowledge with knowledge engineering methods. Leading Issues in Knowledge Management, Volume Two, 2, p.114. Wang, W.T. and Hou, Y.P., 2015. Motivations of employees’ knowledge sharing behaviors: A self-determination perspective. Information and Organization, 25(1), pp.1-26.

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This for East Asian paper - Essay Example The country has a population of more than 1.35 million with 22 provinces, two special administrative states, Macau and Hong Kong and four directly controlled states which are Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing and Tianjin. The country is the second biggest nation in the world as computed by the land area covered with an area of 9.6 million square kilometers. The selected topic is considered to be relevant and suitable for study because of the tremendous growth that China has experienced over the years, the complexities inherent to the country and the impressive strategies used by the country to deal through the various economic fractures and downturns faced by it over the years of its existence. The word Chinese refers to anything that is related to the country China and its people, culture, ethnicity or language. Chinese from the perspective of an individual refers to any person who is an inhabitant or resident of China or an individual who belongs to the Chinese ancestry. Chineseness refers to the state of having the unique characteristics pertaining to China including its culture, ethnicity, language, political and social aspects etc. (Leutner 404). The culture of China is one of the oldest cultures in the history of the world. The significant components of the Chinese culture are music, architecture, martial arts, religion, ceramics, visual arts and cuisine. The culture of China is dominant over wide geographical regions in the eastern parts of China. The traditions and customs of China vary greatly in towns, cities and provinces. The traditional culture of China is spread over wide geographical territories in which each region is divided into separately identifiable sub cultures. Each of these regions is represented by at least three ancestral components related to the ancient Chinese customs and traditions. For example, ancient cities like Guangdong

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Examining a chosen area of media law that relates to the processes or business practices involved in magazine publishing - Essay Example This paper aims at discussing the levels to which the law gives such individuals right to privacy. This will be in relation to the right and freedom given to the magazine publishers by the constitution. The intellectual property right is the right given to an individual to control any of his or her intellectual creations. Mostly violation of this right by magazine publishers through publication of these creations without the owner’s permission this may involve the inclusion of photographs a written work by individuals the on the public eye. If a magazine publisher chooses to use any person material without their consent, this would be termed as a violation of intellectual property rights (Phillips & Firth 1999:84). Some of the victims of such violation are photographers, visual artists, and literal creations. If magazine publishers would use images of works by famous photographers without their assent, they would be guilty of violation of this right. However, the magazine can always use these creations by getting in touch with the persons involves and getting either written or verbal assent for the use of these creations. Another form of intellectual property right mostly abused by magazine publishers is the trade secrets. The trade secrets include confidential information that a business or a person uses to get an advantage over their competitors. This information might negatively involve the parties involved if the information gets to the public. A perfect replica of such an incident is one where maybe an artist had a formula or a manner in which he came up with his work. If a magazine publisher publishes this information without the consent of the artist, then the artists’ privacy would have been invaded. The magazine publisher, however, has the right to print this information if the secret of trade violated human rights in any way. The law protects individuals from exploitation just to some limit. Contract law is a section of law that is funda mental for the making of oral and written agreements. These kinds of agreements usually have an association with exchange of goods and services, money, and properties. It entails topics such as the nature of responsibilities, limitation of actions, freedom of contract, privacy of contract, termination of contract and covers also agency relationships, commercial paper, and contracts of employment. In this case, the contract would involve the publisher and the public figure. Such agreement always involves information on the nature of co-existence between the two parties. Magazine publishers sometimes use information about some of the public figures to come up with some of their article. There are cases where the magazine publishers have an agreement of exclusion of some of the information. In such an incidence, it would be a breach of contract if the magazine publishers goes ahead and publishes the information The law of libel protects each and every person from defamation in whatever means. Libels refer to written defamation. This may take place if a magazine publisher decides to publish a story that defames. If it would be proved that the information on the publication is not true, then the publisher will be guilty of defamation. Defamation always takes place as a result of gossip or speculations. When this takes place, the victim usually experiences hatred, shame, disgrace, contempt or ridicule. In some cases, the victim can even experience all the mentioned outcomes. Victims of defamation; however

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Campbell's targets growing make grocery shopping - Case Study Example The role of classical conditioning also comes into play at this stage. The advertisement acts as a conditioned stimulus (role of shopping performed by men) and the target audience is exposed to this advertisement to elicit the conditioned response (men go out to shop). Table A reveals that both men and women tend to buy less variety so as to reduce the number of items purchased. In general, both genders do not make a list of the specific brands they intend to buy. More than half; 56% men and 51% women list only the categories they have to buy. Neither men nor women choose products because they fetch discounts on loyalty cards. However 33% men and 36% women buy store brands to save money. A vast majority of shoppers; 73% men and 78 % women rely on previous usage and experience while selecting brands. Very few shoppers base their choice on product label and packaging. More women (43%) tend to shop for ‘all-purpose’ cleaning supplies than men (31%). Women also have a tendency to look at a store circular (59%) and make additional unplanned purchases (54%). On the other hand, 49% of the males go through a store circular and only 44% make unplanned purchases. List making behavior, especially making list based on ingredients needed for recipes, elicits pretty divergent behavior between the two genders. 46% of the women make such lists as against 33% males. A lot of women (52%) select brands on the basis of coupons picked up from home as compared to 40% of the males who base their purchase decision on this parameter. If a product is requested by a household member, 44% of women pick it up while only 30% of the males do so. The aforesaid discussion suggests that marketers of packaged-goods grocery items should have their products and brands listed on the circulars in the stores since 49% of the men tend to read such circulars. The advertising objective should be to make the brand synonymous with the product category since 56% of the men mention only

Solar and wind electric power production and distribution for the San Research Paper

Solar and wind electric power production and distribution for the San Antonio area - Research Paper Example There are various forms of sources of energy that San Antonio city has embarked on establishing so as to meet the great need for energy that the city has currently (Michael, 2010). The major power projects that are supplying the energy need in this city includes the CPS Energy, the Texas Grid, solar power, On-grid wind generation and off-grid power generation for individual homes and business. This study embarks on discussing the entire energy project in this city and how they have helped in addressing the energy needs that the city has. The most important thing to understand is that environmental conservation is a core objective of the city of San Antonio, Texas (Paul, 1998). Therefore, all the energy sources are established in line with the need to conserve the environment and eliminate any form of environmental pollution. No wonder then, renewable energy has become the core for energy sources in the city of San Antonio, Texas. CPS Energy of San Antonio, is the largest city municipality owned energy utility, that provides both electric and gas energy (Jones, 2007). The revenues generated from this utility are huge, and they account for above 20% of the city’s operating budget every year (Michael, 2010). The utility was founded in 1942, and it is well known to serve above a million energy consumers, both in electrify and gas energy. The utility is comprised of a range of fuel generation combination, with nuclear power, coal, renewable energy and natural gas, a fact that has made this utility a very effective one for its clientele (Paul, 1998). For electric energy, CPS energy is the sole licensed producer supplying the electricity energy need for its territory that is well over 4060 square kilometers. The electricity energy produced by this utility is sufficient to serve all the electric energy need so f the resident clientele and for wholesale to other municipalities in the south Texas, that are

Religion and Human Experience Essay Example for Free

Religion and Human Experience Essay Hinduism can be traced back to ancient Aryan civilizations about four thousand years ago and is based on polytheism with various forms of rituals. Upanishads are documented texts which came about after probing the religion and finding ways of attaining spiritual insight from within and for life in general. Brahman is one who sees the divine as being one in all aspects and the Atman which is the soul reflects the oneness amidst diversity and reveals the Brahman in his true self. Maya on the other hand camouflages the truth of unity in mythical and magical shroud. Karma which is related to rebirth is stressed while Moksha is seen as freedom from and beyond all human aspects. The Bhagvad Gita brings out the practical elements of the religion in everyday life through four paths which can be practised together or separately to achieve spiritual satisfaction. The Hindu religion revolves around temples, rituals, polytheism and numerous festivals. Though many may worship a particular god or goddess they believe in all gods as being one in different forms. Priests and gurus are revered and looked up to as spiritual leaders. Animals are given importance as they are believed to be in the image of god this reflects in several gods having animal features. Symbolism is the basis brought out through art and sculpture. This rich culture of India has appealed to many around the world especially the yoga and meditations which have influenced people from every background. Religion and Human Experience 4 Jainism This religion is as ancient as Buddhism with Mahavir as the central figure and whose teachings are similar to Buddha, preaching abstinence and meditation to attain peace and ultimate freedom. This religion does not believe in god’s creation or being blessed by a Divinity, instead they believe in an everlasting universe full of life and pain as in humans. Though humans are considered special and can attain spirituality through compassion and knowledge of the inner self. The basic of Jainism is Ahimsa of which non violence is the most important followed by other virtues. Like most religions Jains honour 24 saints otherwise known as Tirthankaras who are looked up to and followed for their great accomplishments. Purification is part of being a Jain and life is considered a step in the path to eternal liberation from the human body through a life of good virtue and selflessness. Jainism teaches that to gain spiritual fulfilment one has to follow the path of strict non violence. It has five branches Digambaras, Shvetambaras, Sthanakavasis and Terapanthis. Sikhism This is a fifteenth century Indian religion with a background of Hindu Muslim conflict. The founder is Guru Nanak who believed in monotheism and oneness of God. He professed that even though there may be many forms and perception God is one whom he called â€Å"True name â€Å". His teaching was that God had no image and that he was beyond human insight while being the ultimate source of love, wisdom and righteousness. He taught social Religion and Human Experience 5 conscientiousness as part of the religion and the Sikh temples which are called Gurudwaras were open to all. The Sikhs follow and honor ten gurus, the first of whom was Nanak and the last being Gobind Singh who is the permanent guru and is said to have the soul of Nanak himself. Guru Gobind Singh was the founder of the military group called the Khalsa which followed five basic practices religiously. Today these five practices is what distinguishes the Sikhs from the rest, these include uncut hair and beard, Kangha a wooden comb, Kirpan which is a sword, Kachhera the under short which represents the readiness for battle at all times and Kara which is a steel wrist band representing the unity of Sikhs. This community stands out for its independence and strong unity which is their strength. Adi Granth is the holy book of the Sikhs and has verses and hymns written by the gurus themselves. This community has several festivals marking important events in the history of the Sikh religion. Religion and Human Experience 6 References Molloy Michael. 2008. Experiencing the World’s Religions, 4th Edition. Retrieved on June 7th, 2009 from: http://highered. mcgraw-hill. com/sites/0073535648/student_view0/

Project Plan Of Newhall Place Construction Essay

Project Plan Of Newhall Place Construction Essay A brief physical description of the building (including architectural style and the materials used), its history and why it has been granted a listed status. Newhall Place is located at Newhall Hill Birmingham West Midlands B1 3JH. It was built about 1860 and designed by H.R. Yeoville Thomason, who was also responsible for many of Birminghams finest buildings. He designed the Council House and much of Colmore Row. The building was first occupied by a firm of merchants, Shaw Hawkes Co, but by 1871 No. 16 had become the premises of Phipps Pickering and Richard, Brewers. By the 1880s it had become part of the Newhall Wire Works in nearby George Street and is now a Grade II Listed building. This imaginative courtyard development still retains much of this character from 19th Century with exposed beams, arched sash windows and an atrium style courtyard. The durability of an arched window depends on the type of window used and the location, especially how much wear and tear it will receive in that area of the home. There is also the fact that arched windows require special skill in the installation. The contractor will need to frame-in the opening to accommodate the arched design, being sure to install the proper support. He/she should also carefully caulk and seal the arch to create a strong moisture and air barrier. Without a strong seal, your window will require costly repair down the road. (http://www.calfinder.com/library/window/types/Arches-Bring-Style-to-Your-Windows) Every windows and doors have an arch or round on top of them, it seems like a gothic style as specially arranged with brickwork at the outer faà §ade facing the street side. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Consideration of the impact of the fixed internal layout of the building on a conversion project, in comparison with modern construction techniques. First of all, most of the historical building preserved has its own characteristics in both architectural or structurally design for purpose and its original use. Although most people may consider to demolish the entire building or alter part of it when come to a project involving change of use or other intend, the existing internal layout usually not capable to accommodate the new design from the architect in terms of modern construction method or techniques in related to the purpose of use. The fundamental problems encompassing the allocation of structure/partition wall, column, beam, staircase, basement, sky light, ceiling/false ceiling, drainage pipe and ducting. In order to retain the front faà §ade which is the major issue to maintain the outlook and architectural feature of historical building, most of the structural elements are not recommended to alter. It is not only not changing the appearance outside but the internal fixed elements would not be suggested to modify since in structural aspect the main structure especially when constructed in brickwork most of the wall, column and beam form the main structural framework. It is easy to notice that those elements are connected to each other in specific joints structure. In most case, it will be more wisely not to touch that part but considering how to reinforce and provide adequate lateral and vertical support to the faà §ade and also the internal structure prior to and during the construction stage. Nowadays, most of the AA works would employ a structural engineer to investigate the existing structure and provide adequate checking in order to determine whether the structures serviceabil ity is strong enough to cater the loading during construction or for future use. One of the key factors of the modern construction in terms of structural stability is spreading the loads by transferring to reinforced concrete column and beam which the load path is much more simple and consistent. With less r.c. structure wall partitions, the space within the entire layout will be enhanced remarkably as well as the flexibility for architect design. Another modern method is to construct a high grade r.c. core wall in the middle of the building like IFC 2 in Hong Kong, the main structure can provide sufficient strength so allow the structural steel elements to attach to and thus the reduction of r.c. beam and column will release more space and headroom. Such structural design can give more flexibility in internal partitioning, where those partitions wouldnt form part of the structure hence future alternation and change of use can be facilitate. To conclude the above, there are much mor e limitations for old design building in compare with modern building in terms of fixed internal layout. Many examples in Hongkong such as 181 shopping mall (former police headquarter in TST) and Murray House in Stanley selected not to ruin the fixed layout but renovate in aesthetic without touching the main structure. c) Consideration of underpinning; waterproofing of basements; upgrading and retrofitting of building services; remedying dampness; repair of masonry; treatment of timber defects. Underpinning First of all, it is recommended to employ a structural engineer to have an investigation over the existing foundations including the main structure, soil bearing capacity, water table etc. First of all, a thorough inspection over the existing superstructure and the basement to reveal if there is any major and apparent crack over the main structure where the temporary supporting system can be determined and also the subsequent main structure reinforcement scheme can be assessed. Secondly, to check over the buried foundation under the basement, adopt trial hole excavation with adequate lateral support at the backyard will be suggested. The fact of the condition of soil and also the existing foundation and the water table could be revealed. Meanwhile the bearing capacity would be obtained by checking with the adoption of method of plate-load test or the like. In our experience, raft foundation should be the most possible existing structure constructed in brickwork for such old building over 150 years. To avoid the disturbance of the existing foundation, it is recommended to have a partial excavation with relative small area in alternative pattern so not to remove too much support from the existing foundation subject to further analysis structural calculation after obtaining relevant data from the inspections. Owing the building is only 2 stories high, thus mass concrete fill could be adopted since shadow partial excavation can be achieved without too many lateral support over the limited space due to the allocation of the building with one side facing the street and two sides abutted to adjacent buildings. Waterproofing of Basement A black, liquid applied single-component moisture-cured bitumen modified polyurethane waterproofing system, which provides superior protection against the penetration of water. Bitumen modified polyurethane elastomer a two-component system is available, which does not depend on atmosphere moisture. Basic uses once cured, the liquid membrane allows expansion and contraction over a broad temperature range and maintains flexibility and waterproofing properties under continuous exposure to water above or below grade. It has a thixotorpic consistency and may be used on vertical as well as horizontal surfaces. The wide range of purposes including application over concrete, stone, brick, cement blocks, wood, metal, asbestos and most other surfaces. After the preparation of the wall surfaces and application of waterproofing membrane, render the wall and screed the floor with one layer of cement sand protective layer. Sump pit system can be adopted in designated location to prevent the failure of the membrane ruin the entire waterproofing system when leakage happen in the future. One layer of extruded polystyrene foam board then be fixed on top of the screed/render to provide a media to reduce the risk of condensation and also enhance the insulation of the entire basement tackle the temperature change. Finally, cover up with a layer of brick (to wall) and the floor with another layer of screed equipped with steel mesh in 2 layers (both top bottom) to form a rigid protective system against external damage to the insulation/waterproofing membrane. Although the space inside will be reduced, still this could be the best waterproofing system to deal with upgrading and retrofitting of building services Electrical Since the entire building used brickwork for construction and structure. To avoid damage or further deteriorate the brickwork, electrical conduit shall be fixed on the existing brickwall without forming a trench for conceal. It may be looking shinning of the GMS conduit finishes but paint should be considered to apply to match with the tone of the wall design. MVAC It is recommended to provide suitable MVAC system to both the upper lower basement due to the confined area below ground level. Installation of ducting within the premises would not be a problem by fixing expansion bolt to the soffit of ceiling. On the other hand, the EAD shall be designed to run along the exterior wall at the backyard to higher level. In order to ensure the architect design and the aim of aesthetic, simply install false ceiling system would make the interior more neat and unify where the exterior pipe/duct can be cladded with aluminum cladding or GRC panel to match with the existing finishes. The Variable refrigerant volume (VRV) system will be selected for air conditioning system based on easy to install, small installation space and easy to repair, the installation methods like the Split-Type Air Conditioning. The Mechanical Ventilation system will install individual the intake and exhaust fan in class room and corridors Fig. xxxx Fire Services To comply with the latest government ordinance and statutory regulation, it is advised that to appoint several design in terms of the followings in FS aspect. To improve the extinguishment and containment system, the ceiling will require install sprinkler system (Fig. xxxxx). Fire rated doors will install between the escape route and corridor area in each floor for isolate the fire occurred. Portable firefighting equipment, included fire extinguishers, fire blankets and sand buckets. Fixed firefighting equipment, included Hose reels, Sprinkler system ,Fig. xxxx, and Firefighting lift Fig: Sprinkler System Plumbing Drainage The major problem will be related to the underground drainage system, what can be seen above ground level should be relatively easier either retain or divert subject to the new architect layout. The u/g drainage shall be redesign subject to the availability of existing sub-structure. It may not be difficult to relocate the existing manhole but it needs to be using the previous opening inside the u/g structure to avoid disturbance of the stability or otherwise too many alternation will affect the overall rigidity of entire structure, subsequently cost/time implication to the project may be enhanced. Part Two. Q1 Your Client has retained your company as Project Managers (offering a full range of services ranging from Professional Design services together with Health and Safety). As a Principal Contractor / CDM Coordinator prepare a detailed Health and Safety Risk Assessment to accompany the tender documentation for the demolition and / or refurbishment of the existing buildings Noise Noise may be defined as sound undesired by the recipient. Besides being a nuisance, noise may interfere with working efficiency, cause accident and most important for resulting in hearing loss to employee. In deciding what the noise control measures to provide, the essential thing is to make a noise assessment to determine what exactly the ideal figure of sound reduction. The sequence will be as below:- Assessing neighborhood noise. Assessing noise (Including noisy plants equipment) generated on site. Deciding the most affected noise sensitive receiver. Comparing the quantitative data calculated from 3 steps before. Making reference to the current statutory regulations. Setting the specific limit. Deciding the noise source. Setting the individual control measure by the means of the following: Substitution (replace equipment with silenced type). Enclosure (enclose equipment by outer wall with inner lining of an acoustically absorbent). Silencers (add). Screens (provide with acoustic screens). Assessing noise level generated on site. Reviewing monitoring the status. Action level can be determined for actions. A report in the prescribed form shall be submitted to the relevant department as soon as possible. For exceeding First Action Level, a warning notice shall be displayed for specification of distance for noisy machines or tools. Between First and Second Action Levels a daily personal noise exposure between 85 and 89.9 dB(A), when employees are exposed, the site are required to provide suitable approved ear protectors to employees who request for them. Between Second and Peak Action Levels a daily personal noise exposure of 90 dB(A); a peak sound pressure level of 140 dB or 200 Pa, the site are required to provide suitable approved ear protectors to employees and enforce them to use properly. Having finished each assessment, a list will be generated to inform all subcontractors how far are the hearing protection zone are. The General Foreman / Foreman should post noise labels and follow the rules in the different action levels. Dust Dusts usually fall into three groups when considered as hazards. They are toxic, nuisance and fibrosis producing. Adequate ventilation, efficient dust suppression, good housekeeping and proper personal protection are required to control dust explosions. Basically, substituting a less dangerous material for those from which dust arises is a method to control. To arrest the dust and collect it as near as possible to the point of origin, local exhaust ventilation is needed to install. To be effective, a mask must be fitted carefully and must be kept clean and the filter must be replaced when necessary. To enclose a work process that produces dust is also a method we can take. In spite of all precautions, some dust will always escape from the plant. It must be prevented from accumulating in workrooms by the regular and frequent cleaning of all parts of rooms and plant. First-aid Facilities Adequate number of first-aider and facilities in accordance with the law should be provided on site. It may have saved the casualtys life through the application of appropriate first aid measures. However, his life can be lost through rough handling or careless transportation procedures. Before you attempt to move the casualty. Housekeeping The laws including F IU Ordinance Regulations, Air Pollution Control Ordinance (Cap. 311), Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance, Construction Sites (Safety) Regulations, Air Pollution Control (Open Burning) Regulations and Air Pollution (Construction Dust) Regulations demand us to have a good housekeeping. The common hazards on site are openings, projecting nails or metal fragments at dumping area etc. Removing debris frequently is better than dealing with them after being stacked to a large amount and has advantages both in save time and money. Rag, oil, grease should be regarded as chemical waste. Waste paper or cans should be kept in rubbish bin, which is removed immediately if full. Waste reinforcement or other valuable materials should be saved in a particular place. All tools or equipment should be kept in storeroom after used. A safe means of access shall be maintained up to the required standards. Removing projecting nails as quickly as possible. Demolition Effective planning and monitoring are required to ensure that the demolition process or the partially demolished elements left at the end of each day of work does not pose any danger to the works, the general public and the adjacent properties. The General Foreman / Foreman shall provide all necessary precautionary measures to protect the works, the building, the occupants, the public and other prior to commencement of the demolition works. The General Foreman / Foreman shall ensure the means of escape provisions as well as fire compartment of the premises are maintained throughout the Contract period both for the renovation area and the adjacent tenancies.. Stability Report Including Calculations A report on the stability of the building to be demolished is required during all stages of demolition if necessary. Temporary Supports When temporary supports to structure is required, check the entire scaffolding assembly and utilities before demolition. Housekeeping Material shall be properly stored. Access ways and work areas shall be free of obstructions. Waste shall be properly disposed of at least daily. Do not overload any members. Dangerous Zone Cordon off any identified dangerous zones. The site shall be locked up all the time. In order to avoid trespasser, the General Foreman / Foreman shall inspect the premise each shift prior to work. Utilities Permit-to-work system is activating. Electrical Safety All electrically powered equipment or hand tools, except double insulated hand tools, shall be grounded. Portable hand tools and electrically powered equipment shall be used with a circuit breaker. Electrical equipment shall be disconnected or the current otherwise interrupted while it is being adjusted or repaired. Outlets, switching, junction boxes, etc. shall be covered. Exposed noncurrent-carry metal parts of fixed equipment that may become energized under abnormal conditions shall be grounded when in wet or damp locations. After demolition Clear away all debris. Secure boundary unless reinstatement has been made. Provide a Method Statement for the key stages of the entire project and a Construction Program identifying the key stages (i.e. this is not a definitive list) demolition, faà §ade retention, temporary works, high water table etc. Foundation Underpinning 1) Excavation shall be proceeded with respected to the structural engineer for adequate depth and the sequence prescribed. 2) Lateral support shall be followed according the same manner to the desire depth. 3) Concreting to the module of foundation as designed in alternative. 4) Backfilling at not more than the specified depth of each layer, shoring shall be dismantled successively. Ground water control In some cases, the ground water conditions found during site investigation may change before or during site investigation. Such changes may be due to the construction of basements nearby, natural flooding or artificial causes, such as a burst water main. The methods of ground water control may be divided into three broad groups: pumping, cut-off walling, and special methods. The choice of method depends mainly on site conditions and on the soil characteristics. These include:- size and location; thickness and type of soil strata; magnitude of water pressures in various strata; proposed permanent structure relative to soil strata; length of time for which the excavation must be open; prevention of damage to adjacent structures; relationship between the proposed dewatering method and the construction sequence. Dewatering Pumping from sumps Widely used in deep excavations for trench or basement. There are several major problems:- Soil movement due to settlement Ground affected by water flow towards sump Instability at formation level in timbered excavations owing to upward movement of water The general solution is to dig sump at corner of excavation below formation level. Open Sump The sump is usually formed away from the construction area in a corner of the excavation. The water is led into the sump, either by sloping the ground towards it or by using shallow garland drains which feed into the sump. Pumping from open sumps is limited to a maximum depth of about 8m. Jetted Sump In this method, a hole is formed in the ground by jetting metal tube. A disposable intake strainer connected to a disposable flexible suction pipe is then lowered into the hole, and the void filled with sand filter media. This suction pipe is connected to a pump which pumps out the ground water. Demolition 1) Temporary support such as racking shore shall be installed at each floor prior to any demolition work commence. Demolition Work 1) Statutory and contractual Requirements shall be followed and implement on site at all time. 2) All demolition works shall be carried out in accordance with the Building (Demolition Works) Regulations, the Draft Code of Practice for Demolition of Buildings as well as Building Department Practice Notes. 3) Before any demolition work is commenced, a sufficient survey for proper identified of any structural problems and risk associated with flammable and hazardous substance, utilities etc. 4) Location of Utilities 4.1) The whole area, which is affected by any possible demolition works, shall be identified. 4. 2) Plans or other suitable information about all utilities especially concealed pipes in the vicinity of the proposed works before any demolition work starts shall be obtained. 4.3 ) Shut off, cap, or otherwise control all electric, gas, water, sewer and other service lines before demolition work is started. Permit-to-work system shall be activated. 4.4) If it is necessary to maintain any power, water, or other utilities during demolition, such lines should be temporarily relocated as necessary and/ or protected. 4.5) plan on the proposed methods for handling and disposal of debris including the permissible temporary accumulation of building debris and the transportation route shall then be evolved. 4.6) Stability Report with supporting calculations shall be generated. Faà §ade Retention 1) To design by the structural engineer with the project manager to investigate the most economical and efficient method prior to determine the sequence of work. 2) Provide suitable foundation at ground level and erect the steel prop above the temporary footing. 3) Continued with the diagonal bracing and transom to form a stable framework floor by floor from bottom and up sequence, make sure the bolting is securely fixed. 4) Floor slab shall be hacked off to let the framework going up and through the slab. 5) The configuration of framework will be similar to fly racking shore. Your Client is also concerned that they discharge their statutory obligations under the CDM Regulations, in addition to the Health and Safety Risk Assessment. Explain the workings of the CDM regulations and how these affect them as developers throughout the entire contract (i.e. demolition, new build and refurbishment). The clients duty in relation to the health and safety file (1) The client shall ensure that the CDM co-ordinator is provided with all the health and safety information in the clients possession (or which is reasonably obtainable) relating to the project which is likely to be needed for inclusion in the health and safety file, including information specified in regulation 4(9)(c) of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006(a). (2) Where a single health and safety file relates to more than one project, site or structure, or where it includes other related information, the client shall ensure that the information relating to each site or structure can be easily identified. (3) The client shall take reasonable steps to ensure that after the construction phase the information in the health and safety file (a) is kept available for inspection by any person who may need it to comply with the relevant statutory provisions; and (b) is revised as often as may be appropriate to incorporate any relevant new information. (4) It shall be sufficient compliance with paragraph (3)(a) by a client who disposes of his entire interest in the structure if he delivers the health and safety file to the person who acquires his interest in it and ensures that he is aware of the nature and purpose of the file. In anticipation that a project comprising of demolition, alteration and refurbishment, will proceed based on your recommendation, advise on the scope and nature of the project team. This should include the timing and sequence of appointments. Designer/Architect Consultants To provide design of the architectural layout, featuring, what to be retained or demolished To provide detail information about the aesthetical features, design of lighting, furring and finishing to internal/external area. Professional Structural Engineer To provide structural calculation and analysis for the followings: Soil bearing capacity and foundation upgrading design Inspection to the substructure elements with remedial proposal Inspection to the superstructure elements with remedial proposal Temporary lateral support for foundation work Vertical/lateral support for the retention of faà §ade unit and/or structural elements 4. The Building Team Building is a group activity and its success depends on a good understanding and operation between a large number of people. The participants involved can be conveniently arranged into groups or teams according to their particular interest and /or involvement as follows:- 4.1 Client Team The client or the building owner has the responsibility for defining the building to suit needs, establishing and providing the necessary finances, agreeing design and construction phases, timetabling, and, of course, fulfilling the management and running of the completed project. A potential client must establish whether to build or not to build. Having decided that a new building is necessary to provide additional or alternative space, it is important that consideration is then given to when the space will be needed. Various problems are needed to be solved, such as: land acquisition, establishment of rights, development permits, planning permission, building approval, contractor selection and subsequent erection. Most building is undertaken from money made available in the form of a loan therefore, interest rates are important. In this respect, the government has direct influence and can use the building industry as a regulator for the economy of the country. Once the money becomes available for a building, the client will require speedy action for its design, construction and subsequent use so that the lost interest, which would have been gained through alternative financial investments, may be speedily recouped. The total cost of a building must include the professional fees of the Design Team which the client appoints. 4.2 User Team User Team forms a vital link between design concepts and built reality. An example of User Team is the advisory organization formed by the tenants of public housing. 4.3 Design Team There are a great many people in a Design Team who concerned with supplying the design expertise which will make a building possible. Principal Designers generally include architects, interior designers, and building surveyors. They are responsible for the overall design of the project. Architects design and prepare the production information for most building projects. They will also inspect the construction work on site. Interior Designers can also prepare design and production information for a building, and provide supervision of work, but, they may be specifically concerned with the interior of a building and need additional advisers in order to deal with all the design and construction processes involved in total building. Building Surveyors are sometimes responsible for the design and supervision of certain building work although they are more usually carry out surveys of structural soundness, condition of dilapidation or repair, alterations/extensions to existing buildings and market value of existing buildings. Specialist Designers include civil and structural engineers, services engineers, and those concerned with specific aspects of architecture, including landscape, interiors, office planning, etc. They provide expertise concerning certain aspects of a building and whose requirements are often coordinated by the Principal Designer. For example: HVAC Communications Drainage and plumbing Electrical Fire services Security systems Civil and Structural Engineers are employed to assist Principal Designers on building projects which contain appreciable quantities of structural work, such as reinforced concrete, complex steel or timber work, or foundations which are either complex or abnormal. Services Engineers work with other designers and are concerned with environmental control lighting, heating, air conditioning, and sound modulation; electrical installations, plumbing and waste-disposal systems; and mechanical services, such as lift installations and electrical conductors. Quantity Surveyors provide the cost control and financial advice to client, principal designers and specialist designers. They are responsible for preparing Bills of Quantities. Also, during the actual construction period for a project, he must measure and value the work carried out at regular (monthly) intervals and submit details to the overall financial administrator (usually the principal designer) for payments from client to contractor. They also advises on the use of sums of money listed in the Bill of Quantities for contingency or provisional items, the cost of making variations in areas originally described in the Bills or indicated on the drawings, and settlement of the final account for the finished project. Depending on the precise nature of a project, the combined cost of these professional fees will vary from between 12% and 20% of the final construction costs. 4.3 Research Team Researchers are those making understanding and development of current construction methods (materials and technical ability). The aim of the research is to discover facts by means of scientific study and, in matters concerning building, covers a very wide area of knowledge requiring controlled programming of critical investigation of chosen subjects. 4.4 Legislative Team They negotiate with the relevant authorities to clarify certain legal requirements. Building Ordinance Office, Planning Department, Fire Services Department, Highways Department, Urban Council, etc. On site management level, a builder has to ensure that the building site maintains safe and healthy conditions for employees, and that the general public should be adequately pro

Challenges for E-Learners

Challenges for E-Learners Distance learning, sometimes called e-learning is here defined as interactive learning in which the learning content is available online and provides automatic feedback to the students learning activities. Online communication with real people may or may not be included, but the focus of e- learning is usually more on the learning content than on communication between learners and tutors. Distance learning and its relationship to emerging computer technologies have together offered many promises to the field of education. In practice however, the combination often falls short of what it attempts to accomplish. Some of the shortcomings are due to problems with the technology; others have more to do with administration, instructional methods, or students. Despite the problems, many users like technologies such as compressed video and see continued growth in the area. However, distance learning is no such advantage is that it is easy, a person can study without attending classes or lectures, while working or doing some other course. It is also a good alternative for housewives who are not able to enroll into courses because they have to take care of young children, just deal with computers and have their own time to learn and also can communicate with tutors and peers via online such as email, forum and chat. . In distance education courses, you would be provided with study material and also would have to submit assignments on time. These assignments would be assessed by professors who would send you feedback. However, if you are planning to enroll into distance learning, you need to to know about some of the distance learning pros and cons. Like every good thing, even distance learning has some disadvantages that can make it seem a little inconvenient for people. The problem may be due to factors balance between personal and learning problems. If students cannot adapt to the system of distance learning, they will face a different problem. In addition, lack of knowledge and skills about using technology and computers, language skills, especially English language, disorganized way of learning to mix work problems, family and study time. These are some of the distance learning advantages and disadvantages. Before making a decision, it is important to weigh the distance learning pros and cons. Though distance learning can be termed as a useful and convenient way to gain knowledge and to higher ones qualification, whether it would benefit you would entirely depend upon your personality and attitude. Here we will discuss in more detail about the problems faced by online learners and solutions or suggestions can be followed so that any problems that arise can be resolved satisfactorily. So it is important to identify the problem faced by online learners because without this knowledge, maybe the learners will lose their focus and motivation THREE MAIN PROBLEMS FACED BY BEGINNING ONLINE LEARNERS Despite the promises and obvious advantages to distance learning, there are problems that need to be resolved. These problems include balancing the combination of work, family and education, study habits and lack of skills in technology. Each one of these has an effect on the overall quality of distance learning as a product. In many ways, each of these issues relates to the others. This is one of the major problem which will make them think twice before decide to advance their study. The first problem faced by online distance learners is in balancing the combination of work and education. Most of the open and distance learner usually have many commitments and responsibilities that they must attend while doing their educational goals. Many of them are married, work full time and of course have children. If not carried out, all of this can cause the student drop out from their learning. Job responsibility is already intimidating, let alone the family and the learning, so adult learners have limited time to do their study. The task of balancing all of the above responsibility is truly challenging for most of them. The second issue is in acquiring go online distance study habits. The students everyday environment is very distracting for most of the students. Unlike traditional university students who are always in their learning community which supports them most of the time, online distance students are not. Distractions such as friends asking for night supper and wife demanding to go shopping at the mall every weekend are among other distractions faced by students. Acquiring some time in a day to study is quite a hard task to complete. Online distance learners also have a hard time in being independent and responsible to their own self. Most of the time, there is no one around to monitor the students learning process. The openness of the online distance program gives students the freedom to do their learning process whenever they like but most of the time, procrastination is the culprit. Unfocused view of their learning goals also will make the students act irresponsibly towards their learnin g. The third issue is online distance learners also face problems in recognizing and mastering strengths and skills in Information Technology (IT). In online distance learning, technology is the main conduit which information and communication flow. A computer with internet access is usually needed for this process and its application will need the user to master certain level of acquirement. Some of these problems arise from a lack of training, some from the instructors attitudes about using the technology, and still others by hardware problems. It seems to be self evident that instructors need to be trained to use distance learning technology, but too often they are not. The student will also need to have some basic writing skills and go online distance command of English language. Unfortunately, not all of the students possess the above skills. THREE LOGICAL AND PRACTICAL SUGGESTION ON WAY TO REDUCE OR ELIMINATE THE PROBLEMS FACED BY BEGINNING ONLINE LEARNERS Adults students mostly do not have the luxury of attending college on a full time basis because of their work and family obligations. They often experience problems which, if not overcome, can result in the derailing of their educational goals. There are things that they can do though to help overcome the typical problems that arise. The first solution is learners must manage and plan themselves effectively in order to balancing work, family and study. They have to apply smart time management. Avoiding procrastinating a must. They must be more responsible and have a focused view towards learning. They must also learn to improve themselves in areas they are lacking ( such as writing skills, computer skills, note taking skills and English language skills) because not all skills will be taught by the tutor. They need to motivate their own self by setting achievable goals and have a positive attitude. The second solutions are start with less demanding course. There tends to be some challenging courses that must be completed by students, there is rarely a requirement that these should be the first ones studied. Therefore, start with less challenging ones that you find more enjoyable initially so as to build confidence. This assists in getting used to the college atmosphere and the demands of course work again. Furthermore, every student make a study calender to detailing examination dates and assignment due dates on a dedicated calender helps to avoid the rushing of assignments at the last minutes or exam cram sessions. Proper preparation leads to good grades, while inadequate planning results in failure. The third solutions are make sure that internet access is readily available. Study today is dependent on the internet, forum, e-mail and etc as intermediate communication. The ability to access library databases and complete research online is the basis of succeeding. Also, electronic access eliminates the requirement of spending many hours working on campus, you can study from home instead. The practical suggestion on way to reduce problem faced by online learners are problem solving skills. It gives the opportunity to develop other useful learning skills such as like practice specific procedures and put theoretical use when develop reasoning abilities and creativity in finding answers. Other method also like develop learners understanding of underlying principles and make research topic in detail. Resolving a study problem may go through the following stages as like review of information. Define problem, relate available information to the problem with design a work plan and methodology and monitor outcomes. Encourage them to make a strategy for developing their problem solving skills, which could include reviewing their own effectiveness in this area, identifying the main steps of the problem solving process, identifying the criteria against which to judge the standard or quality of outcomes, looking at the problem in different ways, simplifying it, making comparisons with researching information and consulting people to establish critical thinking, choosing and using methods to tackle the problem and taking into account factors that may affect problem solving plans recording information in useful way. CONCLUSION The problem faced by beginning online learners is such as like is in balancing the combination of work and education. Most of the open and distance education students are older, have jobs and families, so they are should know how to manage time properly and which one are the priority. The second issue is in acquiring go online distance study habits. The students everyday environment is very distracting for most of the students. Unlike traditional university students who are always in their learning community which supports them most of the time, online distance students are not, so they must should make a study calender so that proper preparation leads to good grades, while inadequate planning can get failure result. Online distance learners also have a hard time in being independent and responsible to their own self. All the student online learners have to solve all this problem with their own way and also have to take more responsibility on their study. The third issue is problems in recognizing and mastering strengths and skills. They must also learn to improve themselves in areas they are lacking such as writing skills, computer skills, English language skills because not all skills will be taught by tutor. So students should find their own alternatives to enhance the skills. If you know if this entire problem cannot resolve maybe something might happen in the future. For example, online learners maybe will fail with their study or get bad result and waste their money and time to study. As student online learners we should have aim for success in our study. Our goals are for every course participant to succeed, leave the course looking at the surrounding world with the perspective of a scientist, feel confident using science in his or her own learning, and know how to support inquiry-based learning in his or her own classroom. APPENDIX 1 Distance Learning With the history of distance learning encompassing so many different learning environments, we need to find a definition that fits in all situations. There have been many definitions put forward in modern literature. Greenberg (1998) defines contemporary distance learning as a planned teaching/learning experience that uses a wide spectrum of technologies to reach learners at a distance and is designed to encourage learner interaction and certification of learning. Teaster and Blieszner (1999) say the term distance learning has been applied to many instructional methods: however, its primary distinction is that the teacher and the learner are separate in space and possibly time. Desmond Keegan (1995) gives the most thorough definition. He says that distance education and training result from the technological separation of teacher and learner which frees the student from the necessity of traveling to a fixed place, at a fixed time, to meet a fixed person, in order to be trained. From these definitions we can see that the student and teacher are separated by space, but not necessarily by time. This would include compressed video, which is delivered in real time. As stated earlier, this type of live video instruction is the fastest growing means of distance learning today. Because of this, much of the discussion here will be dedicated to the promises and problems of this technology. APPENDIX 2 The Reality of Adult Learners Online I was somewhat concerned about the students and the lack of personal attention they would be receiving through my online course. Since I did not know them, I didnt know their learning styles or cultural differences. Adult learners in particular have different learning styles and cultural backgrounds, and they may feel they are being left out of learning activities (Baloglu, 2007). Thus, distance learning may cause a psychological, as well as a physical, gap (Durrington, Berryhill, Swafford, 2006). Students may feel lonely, and a lack of face-to-face communication and competition can affect their motivation. Barriers for adult learners are categorized as situational, institutional, and dispositional. A persons circumstances in life at any given time are considered potential situational barriers. Different policies and practices may make course participation more difficult are considered institutional barriers. Students attitudes about their own abilities to succeed are considered dispositional barriers. These barriers present additional obstacles for adult learners who attempt to obtain an advanced degree (Spellman, 2007). I found these adult learners, who were teachers, to be motivated and very timely in turning in their assignments and posting on Blackboard. Having them complete assignments that benefited their theses made them even more enthusiastic about completing the work. They all asked questions and sought clarification about things they didnt understand. They also did an excellent job commenting on the other students posts. By the end of the course, I could see a definite improvement in the content of their article evaluations. I think they were learning from one another. The adult learners I taught were clearly self-directed and able to be autonomous. They had life knowledge and were goal-oriented. It seems they wanted to see the relevance and application of their education, were practical, needed respect, needed feedback, and had to be interested in the subject matter (Council for Adult and Experiential Learning, 2000; Henick, 1994). The reasons adult learners obtain a post-secondary degree tend to differ from those of traditional students. Adult learners typically want to advance in an organization. An additional degree also makes them more marketable and competitive in the job market and allows them to change careers (Milheim, 2005).