Macro and Micro Environment Essay Example

Macro and Micro Environment Paper Let us take a roughly look at the macro environment just to get the rough idea on the different between macro environment and micro environment. Macro environmental factors generally affect all firms by shaping opportunity and risk in the business-environment. Advancements in research and innovation, changes in political stability or cultural framework are macro factors often influencing long-term strategic management, or even the objectives of a firm. As for the example, Intel with its microchip has shaped management strategy of firms within several industries. Most strategic management modals incorporate an environmental analysis, which scans the existing macro influences and potential opportunities. A situation analysis evaluates environmental influences in relation to internal factors, to establish an individual firm’s limitations and competitiveness. Micro environment is less universal to some extent which the micro environment refers to factors affecting firms in a specific sector or industry. The â€Å"Porter’s Five Forces† modal is an industrial analysis used by firms to understand the micro environment. This strengthens management strategy against changes in micro factors, which can reverberate across the entire industry. There are plenty of micro environmental factors that might affect in today’s business activities. It is an each made up of a self contained micromanagement that happened to stand alone but it interacts with the others in order to make the activities mingling with each other in the micro environment of the business. As for the example, the company itself, the employees, suppliers or even the parts providers which is the suppliers might be the three factors which have a direct effect on the business. The competitors and the customers are happened to be the internal environmental factors that keep business doors open for making money or maximize its profits which will have an impact that is not as direct but just as great because of its impact. Company All of the departments within an organization have the potential to positively or negatively impact and give influence on the outcome of the organization about the customer satisfaction. As a result, a marketing department have to work closely with the finance, purchasing, research and development and manufacturing departments toge ther with among the others in order to identify the ways that each department can contribute to the provision of excellent customer value which will lead to greater customer satisfaction. We will write a custom essay sample on Macro and Micro Environment specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Macro and Micro Environment specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Macro and Micro Environment specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Employees The employees apply an influence on the small business’s quality, operations and profitability through their daily activities. Most of the major quality and production models which including the Lean, Six Sigma and total quality management(TTS) have the framework to encourage the employee leadership over an ordinary management. An example of employee commitment and obligation is the self-directed employee task group. These groups will encourage their group members to learn more and perform to a higher standard and to participate in the mutinous improvement process. The members of these groups can be motivated and inspired by the external forces such as company incentive programs or internal forces such as the pride and satisfaction in work had done well. Supplier The company’s suppliers are the entity that will provide the products or services which the company needs order to add value to the compass own products or services. Those parts or services must be delivered on time and must meet the company’s specifications in order to ensure the level of quality. Fifties requirements are not been met, it is either the production of he company will fall off or the final output of the company’s product will face the quality suffers. In some extreme cases, such as Toast’s recall of cars which is built from 2009 to 2011 for a faulty accelerator. In this situation, the suppliers can cause Toyota the problems with the public perception of Toast’s products or services. In that occasion, the rigorous Toyota Production System which is the Toast’s version Of Henry Ford’s TTS program has been called into question and holds the responsibilities because Toyota had relied on a single supplier for accelerators which is used in its vehicles. Competitors The competitors will directly and indirectly affect the business’s profits by trying to take the business away from the company and it is just as the same where we try to take away their business. The competitors are a stimulus to a company and it is just the same as you the company to them. The competitors will affect the company s activities which will affect its profits, but if the company having to provide the better products for a lower cost and most probably faster than the company’s competition, the company can easily compete with the competitors in ways they may not be able to match. Therein lays an advantage the company whereby it can be driven to provide a product that d elivers more added values for the customers than the competitor. Publics (Customer) Publics or customer are groups that might have a significant impact on the marketing activities which is formulated to contribute to the customers’ satisfaction with a product and an organization. For example, a satisfied customer is a public that can contribute to a marketing program through the positive word of mouth. Consumer will advocates and represents as the watchdog groups are the examples of publics that may encumbered marketing activities through the active word of mouth which will directly give a negative impact towards an organization. About the company of PROTON In this particular discussion, we will look upon the company PROTON which is a national car provider company in Malaysia. PROTON full name is PERUSAL AUTOMOBILE NATIONAL BERTHA or PROTON was incorporated on 7th May 1 983 to manufacture, assemble and sell motor vehicles and related products including the accessories, spare parts and other components. PROTON had produced the Malaysia’s first car which is known as the Proton SAGA which was commercially launched on 9th of July 1985 by Malaysian Fourth Prime Minister which was Tuna Dry. Mathis Mohammad who conceived the idea of a Malaysian car. PROTON was publicly listed on the Koala Lump Stock Exchange (KEELS) in the year of 1992. During that period of time, its shareholders include Khans National Bertha, Petroleum National Bertha, Mediumistic Corporation, Mediumistic Motors Corporation, Employee Provident Fund Board and other local and foreign investors. Tuna Dry. Mathis had gained all the shareholder’s trust in order for them to invest in PROTON and at the same time will save PROTON from being a majority owned by the foreign investors. At the year of 2008, PROTON had put their focus more in the core areas of product, quality, cost efficiency and distribution network and it has been a focal point for PROTON to improve and revolutionize its brand name towards the local and global perceptions. PROTON aims is to have a strong product portfolio. The aims had been executed by PROTON in introducing the right car, for the right market, at the right price and at the right time. This was reflected in the organizations newly introduced PROTON Exert, PROTON Persona and PROTON Saga Models with the latest engine powered by the ewe Camphor FAIN engine. PROTON has also continued to update, make continuous improvement and refresh its existing product lines to entice and attract customers. There are plenty type of PROTON’s car model. The PROTON’s model products include the PROTON was, PROTON Austria, PROTON straight, PROTON war, PROTON Swear, PROTON Arena, PROTON Persona V, PROTON Jaguar, PROTON Persona and PROTON Exert. The ranges of engine capacity provided in PROTON’s products are 1. 3, 1. 5, 1. 6, 1. 8 and 2. 0 litter engines will satisfy and fulfill a wide range of customers both locally and abroad. PROTON cars are also known internationally as very competitive and innovative automobiles. PROTON now is being exported to other 50 countries like Lignite Kingdom and other continental European markets. By this means, PROTON is realizing its goal of being an internationally successful Malaysian automobile manufacturer. Refer to the history, the first PROTON car was exported to foreign company in 1986. The number has increased steadily every now and then, and in the year of 1 998, Malaysia had exported a total of 1 8,422 units to countries and areas, including Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brunet Tarantulas, Chile, Cyprus, Egypt, Fiji, Germany, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Maldives, Mauritius, Oman, Philippines, Qatar, the Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovenia, Sir Lankan, Taiwan Province of China, Turkey, united Arab Emirates and United Kingdom. The models which had being exported during that period of time including Wire which is Sedan and Aerobic, Austria and Putter. The company PROTON In order to know better about the company in this micro environmental factor, we have to have the knowledge about the company itself. As for the company PROTON, PROTON’s strength is lies in its competitively priced reduce. Its widespread nationwide distribution network helps the industry to move forward towards the advancement with the support from Malaysian government itself. The company also has the good the corporate governance practice and highly regarded by many of the Malaysian out of patriotism they feel for this country as PROTON is the national car maker and provider. Unfortunately, the apparent due to short history in car making definitely could not be an excuse for PROTON to come out with low quality products. This could cost for PROTON a very high as over the period of time which it eight jeopardize the PROTON’s reputation. Poor product performance and functionality is something crucial for PROTON that cannot be allowed to happen and the quality of product produced always needs to be monitored and assured to the customers. Other than that, the operational cost and other expenses is always to be a challenging indicator to any industry and for the case of PROTON, it is more susceptible to increase the raw material cost such as the steel particularly. The demand for cars in any segment is always there for PROTON except for more trying times like during the economic crisis. There are always plenty of opportunities for PROTON to be a global player in the global market. Nobody ever say that cars should only be manufactured by a developed and contain a powerful technologies like Japan, Germany and other western countries even though these countries have the reputation of making good cars long time ago before PROTON existed in the market and it has bring Malaysia into the picture. Collaborations within big industry players could enable PROTON to do many things by revolutionize its products for improvement. Through research and development department, many more innovative products loud be invented and this could ensure that PROTON to be as a brand name to remain in the industry. The Employees of PROTON PROTON’s Managing Director, Seed Zinnia Abiding, was once quoted saying that 60 percent of the defects made in PROTON cars were due to poor quality components from vendors, but he also admitted that the rest of the blame has a clear-cut on the firm’s workforce. Since then, the management of PROTON had urged the employees to focus on quality control which is very critical and a crucial factor to put PROTON to profitability and overseas exports. This is because the consumers always wanted the quality cars and hey have put extra efforts to wait for PROTON to improve its quality and the also have the high expectations on PROTON. According to Seed Zinnia Abiding again, he quoted that, â€Å"Today, we want to focus on rebuilding the company. The focus is putting PROTON on a better footing, to improve quality, product and profit. We need to be prepared to compete globally. † Therefore, in order to retain a competitive edge in term of skills-set and technical know-how in this industry, PROTON needs to ensure that their human capital and the workforce is to be continuously developed with the right training and tools. Consistent and relevant training is very crucial for the human capital of PROTON in order to ensure that their employees have the knowledge and tools to help drive PROTON forward and it will bring up the quality of the employees as well. The suppliers of PROTON As we all know, PROTON have to be careful in opening tenders for those suppliers in order to fulfill its requirement on the product specifications and all sort of things that could urge PROTON to produce the quality cars. If the management is serious in bringing the PROTON back to a profitable entity and building up its reputation to gain the heart of its customer, they should UN it like a proper corporation and not as a charity organization which means the incompetent of vendors and the vendors which were being overlooked, contributing hiccup and downturn of the PROTON’s sales performances. This might affect the reputation of PROTON which they do not adhere to the standard of PROTON’s requirement of specificatio n s must be removed and replaced with the other suppliers or vendors. This is because the vendors will play as a big player for PROTON to improve its quality of product which could bring up its reputation to the public. In another word, if PROTON is trying to talk and campaigning about the zero- effect, then the zero tolerance towards the vendors who cannot deliver must come into the picture as a complimentary to the campaign or otherwise the entire exercise of campaign is going to be a pointless effort and public fund will continue to be wasted just by a simple lousy mismanagement on revaluing the vendors. PROTON’s zero-defect campaign is aimed at removing a reputation for poor quality which has left it struggling to compete against foreign competitors. The Competitors of PROTON One of the threats is of course from the rivals twitchiest is the competitors in the local automotive industry. Perusal Tomtit Asked (Persona) which is the Malaysian second national car maker and provider had been set up after PROTON started to challenge PROTON’s in the local market share In Malaysia. Persona actually did better in recent years and outperformed PROTON with their most well selling car model so far which is the Movie and they grab for more than 30% of overall market share. Above is the example photo of the PERSONA Movie which had been the most selling car in recent years and it had dominated the market in a quite high number of percentage. PARODIED keep on producing and improving its Movie del because they can easily tap the market as it is a hot item in the market. Macro and Micro Environment Essay Example Macro and Micro Environment Paper Let us take a roughly look at the macro environment just to get the rough idea on the different between macro environment and micro environment. Macro environmental factors generally affect all firms by shaping opportunity and risk in the business-environment. Advancements in research and innovation, changes in political stability or cultural framework are macro factors often influencing long-term strategic management, or even the objectives of a firm. As for the example, Intel with its microchip has shaped management strategy of firms within several industries. Most strategic management modals incorporate an environmental analysis, which scans the existing macro influences and potential opportunities. A situation analysis evaluates environmental influences in relation to internal factors, to establish an individual firm’s limitations and competitiveness. Micro environment is less universal to some extent which the micro environment refers to factors affecting firms in a specific sector or industry. The â€Å"Porter’s Five Forces† modal is an industrial analysis used by firms to understand the micro environment. This strengthens management strategy against changes in micro factors, which can reverberate across the entire industry. There are plenty of micro environmental factors that might affect in today’s business activities. It is an each made up of a self contained micromanagement that happened to stand alone but it interacts with the others in order to make the activities mingling with each other in the micro environment of the business. As for the example, the company itself, the employees, suppliers or even the parts providers which is the suppliers might be the three factors which have a direct effect on the business. The competitors and the customers are happened to be the internal environmental factors that keep business doors open for making money or maximize its profits which will have an impact that is not as direct but just as great because of its impact. Company All of the departments within an organization have the potential to positively or negatively impact and give influence on the outcome of the organization about the customer satisfaction. As a result, a marketing department have to work closely with the finance, purchasing, research and development and manufacturing departments toge ther with among the others in order to identify the ways that each department can contribute to the provision of excellent customer value which will lead to greater customer satisfaction. We will write a custom essay sample on Macro and Micro Environment specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Macro and Micro Environment specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Macro and Micro Environment specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Employees The employees apply an influence on the small business’s quality, operations and profitability through their daily activities. Most of the major quality and production models which including the Lean, Six Sigma and total quality management(TTS) have the framework to encourage the employee leadership over an ordinary management. An example of employee commitment and obligation is the self-directed employee task group. These groups will encourage their group members to learn more and perform to a higher standard and to participate in the mutinous improvement process. The members of these groups can be motivated and inspired by the external forces such as company incentive programs or internal forces such as the pride and satisfaction in work had done well. Supplier The company’s suppliers are the entity that will provide the products or services which the company needs order to add value to the compass own products or services. Those parts or services must be delivered on time and must meet the company’s specifications in order to ensure the level of quality. Fifties requirements are not been met, it is either the production of he company will fall off or the final output of the company’s product will face the quality suffers. In some extreme cases, such as Toast’s recall of cars which is built from 2009 to 2011 for a faulty accelerator. In this situation, the suppliers can cause Toyota the problems with the public perception of Toast’s products or services. In that occasion, the rigorous Toyota Production System which is the Toast’s version Of Henry Ford’s TTS program has been called into question and holds the responsibilities because Toyota had relied on a single supplier for accelerators which is used in its vehicles. Competitors The competitors will directly and indirectly affect the business’s profits by trying to take the business away from the company and it is just as the same where we try to take away their business. The competitors are a stimulus to a company and it is just the same as you the company to them. The competitors will affect the company s activities which will affect its profits, but if the company having to provide the better products for a lower cost and most probably faster than the company’s competition, the company can easily compete with the competitors in ways they may not be able to match. Therein lays an advantage the company whereby it can be driven to provide a product that d elivers more added values for the customers than the competitor. Publics (Customer) Publics or customer are groups that might have a significant impact on the marketing activities which is formulated to contribute to the customers’ satisfaction with a product and an organization. For example, a satisfied customer is a public that can contribute to a marketing program through the positive word of mouth. Consumer will advocates and represents as the watchdog groups are the examples of publics that may encumbered marketing activities through the active word of mouth which will directly give a negative impact towards an organization. About the company of PROTON In this particular discussion, we will look upon the company PROTON which is a national car provider company in Malaysia. PROTON full name is PERUSAL AUTOMOBILE NATIONAL BERTHA or PROTON was incorporated on 7th May 1 983 to manufacture, assemble and sell motor vehicles and related products including the accessories, spare parts and other components. PROTON had produced the Malaysia’s first car which is known as the Proton SAGA which was commercially launched on 9th of July 1985 by Malaysian Fourth Prime Minister which was Tuna Dry. Mathis Mohammad who conceived the idea of a Malaysian car. PROTON was publicly listed on the Koala Lump Stock Exchange (KEELS) in the year of 1992. During that period of time, its shareholders include Khans National Bertha, Petroleum National Bertha, Mediumistic Corporation, Mediumistic Motors Corporation, Employee Provident Fund Board and other local and foreign investors. Tuna Dry. Mathis had gained all the shareholder’s trust in order for them to invest in PROTON and at the same time will save PROTON from being a majority owned by the foreign investors. At the year of 2008, PROTON had put their focus more in the core areas of product, quality, cost efficiency and distribution network and it has been a focal point for PROTON to improve and revolutionize its brand name towards the local and global perceptions. PROTON aims is to have a strong product portfolio. The aims had been executed by PROTON in introducing the right car, for the right market, at the right price and at the right time. This was reflected in the organizations newly introduced PROTON Exert, PROTON Persona and PROTON Saga Models with the latest engine powered by the ewe Camphor FAIN engine. PROTON has also continued to update, make continuous improvement and refresh its existing product lines to entice and attract customers. There are plenty type of PROTON’s car model. The PROTON’s model products include the PROTON was, PROTON Austria, PROTON straight, PROTON war, PROTON Swear, PROTON Arena, PROTON Persona V, PROTON Jaguar, PROTON Persona and PROTON Exert. The ranges of engine capacity provided in PROTON’s products are 1. 3, 1. 5, 1. 6, 1. 8 and 2. 0 litter engines will satisfy and fulfill a wide range of customers both locally and abroad. PROTON cars are also known internationally as very competitive and innovative automobiles. PROTON now is being exported to other 50 countries like Lignite Kingdom and other continental European markets. By this means, PROTON is realizing its goal of being an internationally successful Malaysian automobile manufacturer. Refer to the history, the first PROTON car was exported to foreign company in 1986. The number has increased steadily every now and then, and in the year of 1 998, Malaysia had exported a total of 1 8,422 units to countries and areas, including Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brunet Tarantulas, Chile, Cyprus, Egypt, Fiji, Germany, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Maldives, Mauritius, Oman, Philippines, Qatar, the Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovenia, Sir Lankan, Taiwan Province of China, Turkey, united Arab Emirates and United Kingdom. The models which had being exported during that period of time including Wire which is Sedan and Aerobic, Austria and Putter. The company PROTON In order to know better about the company in this micro environmental factor, we have to have the knowledge about the company itself. As for the company PROTON, PROTON’s strength is lies in its competitively priced reduce. Its widespread nationwide distribution network helps the industry to move forward towards the advancement with the support from Malaysian government itself. The company also has the good the corporate governance practice and highly regarded by many of the Malaysian out of patriotism they feel for this country as PROTON is the national car maker and provider. Unfortunately, the apparent due to short history in car making definitely could not be an excuse for PROTON to come out with low quality products. This could cost for PROTON a very high as over the period of time which it eight jeopardize the PROTON’s reputation. Poor product performance and functionality is something crucial for PROTON that cannot be allowed to happen and the quality of product produced always needs to be monitored and assured to the customers. Other than that, the operational cost and other expenses is always to be a challenging indicator to any industry and for the case of PROTON, it is more susceptible to increase the raw material cost such as the steel particularly. The demand for cars in any segment is always there for PROTON except for more trying times like during the economic crisis. There are always plenty of opportunities for PROTON to be a global player in the global market. Nobody ever say that cars should only be manufactured by a developed and contain a powerful technologies like Japan, Germany and other western countries even though these countries have the reputation of making good cars long time ago before PROTON existed in the market and it has bring Malaysia into the picture. Collaborations within big industry players could enable PROTON to do many things by revolutionize its products for improvement. Through research and development department, many more innovative products loud be invented and this could ensure that PROTON to be as a brand name to remain in the industry. The Employees of PROTON PROTON’s Managing Director, Seed Zinnia Abiding, was once quoted saying that 60 percent of the defects made in PROTON cars were due to poor quality components from vendors, but he also admitted that the rest of the blame has a clear-cut on the firm’s workforce. Since then, the management of PROTON had urged the employees to focus on quality control which is very critical and a crucial factor to put PROTON to profitability and overseas exports. This is because the consumers always wanted the quality cars and hey have put extra efforts to wait for PROTON to improve its quality and the also have the high expectations on PROTON. According to Seed Zinnia Abiding again, he quoted that, â€Å"Today, we want to focus on rebuilding the company. The focus is putting PROTON on a better footing, to improve quality, product and profit. We need to be prepared to compete globally. † Therefore, in order to retain a competitive edge in term of skills-set and technical know-how in this industry, PROTON needs to ensure that their human capital and the workforce is to be continuously developed with the right training and tools. Consistent and relevant training is very crucial for the human capital of PROTON in order to ensure that their employees have the knowledge and tools to help drive PROTON forward and it will bring up the quality of the employees as well. The suppliers of PROTON As we all know, PROTON have to be careful in opening tenders for those suppliers in order to fulfill its requirement on the product specifications and all sort of things that could urge PROTON to produce the quality cars. If the management is serious in bringing the PROTON back to a profitable entity and building up its reputation to gain the heart of its customer, they should UN it like a proper corporation and not as a charity organization which means the incompetent of vendors and the vendors which were being overlooked, contributing hiccup and downturn of the PROTON’s sales performances. This might affect the reputation of PROTON which they do not adhere to the standard of PROTON’s requirement of specificatio n s must be removed and replaced with the other suppliers or vendors. This is because the vendors will play as a big player for PROTON to improve its quality of product which could bring up its reputation to the public. In another word, if PROTON is trying to talk and campaigning about the zero- effect, then the zero tolerance towards the vendors who cannot deliver must come into the picture as a complimentary to the campaign or otherwise the entire exercise of campaign is going to be a pointless effort and public fund will continue to be wasted just by a simple lousy mismanagement on revaluing the vendors. PROTON’s zero-defect campaign is aimed at removing a reputation for poor quality which has left it struggling to compete against foreign competitors. The Competitors of PROTON One of the threats is of course from the rivals twitchiest is the competitors in the local automotive industry. Perusal Tomtit Asked (Persona) which is the Malaysian second national car maker and provider had been set up after PROTON started to challenge PROTON’s in the local market share In Malaysia. Persona actually did better in recent years and outperformed PROTON with their most well selling car model so far which is the Movie and they grab for more than 30% of overall market share. Above is the example photo of the PERSONA Movie which had been the most selling car in recent years and it had dominated the market in a quite high number of percentage. PARODIED keep on producing and improving its Movie del because they can easily tap the market as it is a hot item in the market.

Advocacy Action, Change and Commitment

Advocacy Action, Change and Commitment Introduction Advocacy according to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) context is defined as the use of efforts that affect the political climate, plan and programme verdicts, as well as public opinions or social beliefs. This context also defines advocacy as financial determinations, community aid and involvement in an issue.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Advocacy: Action, Change and Commitment specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This is done via a set of well-designed actions carried out through a group of dedicated individuals or corporations working in a performance. It simply entails exploring the environment, identifying the agenda, defining partners, lobbying assistance of decision makers, developing allies and constituent building. Advocacy according to UNFPA heavily depends on mass media, group and interpersonal communications. The common targets of advocacy include policy makers, several decision make rs, spiritual leaders and those managing access to substantial resources such as the media (Henderson Pochin 106). Discussion Advocacy was adopted as a core programme area by UNFPA in 1995 over other approaches such as social mobilization, social selling, education, health enhancement and BCC (Behavioral change communication). The advantage of UNFPA advocacy over these methods is that UNFPA advocacy brings light on ICPD precedence’s and rising concerns. Second, UNFPA advocacy puts into consideration key issues such as gender cruelty and the girl child education. In addition, UNFPA advocacy provides a well organized framework for controlling resources to attend to ICPD priorities. The main differences between UNFPA advocacy and IEC include the fact that while UNFPA advocacy targets people by enrolling their support for the gain of other community members, IEC targets people by enrolling them to transform their behaviors for their personal gains. UNFPA advocacy is thus directed towards affecting the communal policy and public arena while IEC is primarily directed towards affecting conduct that is more individual. There are eight essential elements of UNFPA advocacy strategy. These include openly defined issues, well planned objectives, properly evaluated environment, recognized stakeholders, principal messages, suitably chosen intrusions and tools, execution plan and particular indicators for supervision and evaluation (Freeley Steinberg 268).Advertising Looking for essay on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The situation discussed for the preparation of UNFPA advocacy plan in this paper is gender issues in reproductive well being. Women are rapidly heading for full and equal involvement in all features of local and international development. Some of the key barriers to the development of female sexual and reproductive well being are their lack of authority to make decision s at all socio- efficient levels. Assenting actions are required in this case. The preparation of an advocacy plan should, therefore, attempt to achieve equality and justness based on well balanced relationships amongst men and women. It should make it possible for women to recognize their full capabilities. The advocacy plan should make certain the improvement of women participation to sustainable development by fully involving them in processes of decision making at all levels. Women should also take part in all areas of production, income creating activities, science, education, traditions and technology. They should actively participate as decision makers, contributors and beneficiaries (Subedi Thapa 98). Approaches that can be taken within an Advocacy programme include the involvement of significant leaders and chief decision makers. This work together to strengthen relationships that offer access to the other decision makers. They establish what pressures or agreements must b e passed to the public. They are instruments to supply precise information. These leaders also make the public understand the official and unofficial parts of the advocacy programme. This approach is appropriate in a situation involving gender issues. Working together with the mass media so as to generate consensus is another approach. This involves coming up with an outreach programme to keep the objectives of the programme in the brains of the media, the overall public and decision makers. This approach is appropriate in a situation involving reproductive health. The third approach involves building companionships, networks and unions. In advocacy, figures significantly matter and establishing a network that will act like a framework and execute tasks in support of the matter is an added advantage to the process. This approach may sometimes constitute action planning. Important actions may have to be carried out to make formal the proposed network. This approach is appropriate in a situation involving population development. The fourth approach is the development of national capabilities for advocacy. This involves visions for nations being agents of affirmative social change so that all the people in a nation have intrinsic value as partakers of a fair and inclusive society. This approach is appropriate in a situation involving gender issues.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Advocacy: Action, Change and Commitment specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The last approach involves the mobilization of societies as pressure units. Practical communities are created. These share identical values. This approach generates the momentum of the actual world activities by adding the views and concerns articulated by virtual communities. It has the capability of mobilizing human resources past geographical, ritual and institutional barriers. This approach is appropriate in a situation involving reproductive he alth (Soonaval 802). The tools that are available include stakeholder evaluation, persuasion practices and media. Persuasion tools involve urging, petitioning, discussions, conciliations and conflict resolutions among the people. The use of media as a tool involves the use of press meetings, fact and background slips, media packets and radio and television shows. Stakeholder evaluation as a tool involves the identification and categorization of the potential stakeholders. This is done so as to know their interests as per a particular issue. Freeley, Austin Steinberg, David. Argumentation and Debate: Critical Thinking for Reasoned Decision. Boston, M A: Wadsworth/Cengage Learning, 2008. Print. Henderson, Rick Pochin, Mikright. Advocacy, justice and empowerment. Bristol: Policy Press, 2001.Print Soonaval, Kavasha. Advocacy: Its principles and practice. Bombay: N. M. Tripathi, 1960.Print Subedi, Ram Thapa, Rosemary. Advocacy strategies and approaches: a training of trainer’s manual on advocacy strategies for community-based organizations in the Hindu Kush. Kathmandu: International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development, 2005. Print

Leadership, Teambuilding, and Communication Essay - 3

Leadership, Teambuilding, and Communication - Essay Example The company’s profits mainly come from advertisement services. Google inc. was founded by Sergey Brin and Lary Page of the University of Stanford in mid 1990s before going public in 1998 and headquartered in Mountain View, California. The company has witnessed tremendous growth in the past decade and is currently running over one million data service centers worldwide and processing numerous search requests. All the achievements certainly came as a result of the leadership characteristics and style adopted the company leaders (Duthel, 2008). Therefore, there are several leadership traits that I would expect of the leaders of Google Inc. Firstly, I would prefer them to be democratic. A democratic leader in this regard means a leader who allows participation and consensus in decision-making. Through democratic leadership style, the company would be able to engage it employees on matters relating to the company which will certainly be beneficial in propelling the company to prosperity. The benefit of engaging employees in matters relating to the company is because employees of Google are certainly the ones who deal directly with the company’s customers and as such understands their needs and where they want improvements effected. Democratic leaders will, therefore, benefit from the consensus building as far as running of the organization is concerned (Adeniyi, 2007). Secondly, the leader needs to be one with a vision. In this regard, the leaders of Google Inc. should be one who is confident and belief of what he or she is doing, with a clear vision of what he or she wants the company to go. This characteristic is important because such a leader would be able to inspire the employees towards the attainment of such a vision for the prosperity of the organization. Truly, a leader without a clear vision cannot inspire people to follow his or her commands (Adeniyi, 2007). The leader should also be one who inspires his followers rather than command. Research

Experience on Placement in Social Services in Mauritius Essay

Experience on Placement in Social Services in Mauritius - Essay Example On the second week I attended a seminar hosted by Befrienders organisation which is a member of MACOSS, Befrienders was founded by Ibhoo Mansoor in 1995. Its main aim is to prevent suicide which amounts to 300 per year in Mauritius, it operates 48 countries with 400 hundred centres and 60,000 trained voluntary workers. Its activities involve organising talks and public awareness programs. The talk involved the emphasising of the high suicide rate in Mauritius which amounts to 300 deaths a year; the majority of persons involved are persons between the ages of 13 years to 35 years. Suicides is the act of wilfully ending ones life. Some of the causes of suicide include depression, mental illness, hopelessness, poverty and hardship, religious reasons as in the case of suicide bombing and crime where criminals commit suicide before they are caught up with. Suicide however can be prevented through the introduction of crisis intervention centres, restriction of access to common methods of suicide, treatment of depression, reduction of alcohol and substance use and the education based interventions to boost self esteem. On my third week I went to work with the EDYCS group, it is a... (http://www.who.int/mental_health/en/) On my third week I went to work with the EDYCS group, it is a non governmental organisation which was founded in 1997, its main objective is to improve the health and quality of life of people who surfer from epilepsy. I visited the epilepsy health service centre which helps people learn more about epilepsy, visit people suffering from the disease, organising seminars and conferences and fund the people who need urgently need health attention. Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition which is characterized by recurring epileptic seizers. This disease can not be cured but can be controlled. It is caused by parasitic infections, head injury, stroke and complications in pregnant women. Treatment is through medication, special diets and implantation of the vagus nerve which reduce the frequency of seizure. On the fourth week I went to a nursing home with mentally ill people, it was set aside for the elderly. My activities included helping out in giving medication to the sick, undertaking role calls, helping in feeding, provision of guidance and counselling and helping out in the cleaning process which included laundry. On the fifth week I went to the friends in hope organisation, whose purpose is to provide care and support to person's mental illness. This organisation was founded in 1997 by relatives of people suffering from psychotic disorders. The main aims of this organisation is to provide public awareness on psychotic disorders, rehabilitation of patients, and improvement of administration of persons suffering from these disorders. Through my experience with these organisations I have gained a lot in the provision of human services to various needy people

Digital Tools That Increase Academic Success For The Adult Learner Research Paper

Digital Tools That Increase Academic Success For The Adult Learner - Research Paper Example In laymans terms, a digital tool can be defined as computer software, hardware or internet-based systems that support the learning process. A study conducted by Power and Thomas (2007) aimed at investigating how the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) affects learning among teachers showed that laptops and handheld computers enhanced their professional development. In this study, Power and Thomas (2007) asserts that the respondents reported that continued use of these tools improved efficiency as they could study at a place and time of their convenience. These computers were fitted with other supporting tools that allowed them to take pictures to support their lessons, plan their lessons at home and subsequently transfer the course plans to school computers, and could also create audios for use in teaching (Power and Thomas, 2007). In this regard, digital tools enhance adult learning through ensuring easier planning of learning activities. Facebook, as a digital tool is important in adult learning as learners today connect with friends through social sites such as facebook and Blogger. Sara, an adult 18 year old college student cited by Bhatt (2012) affirmed the use Facebook to communicate with her classmates on issues associated with her course. Other digitals tools she asserts to use for support in learning for discussing with friends and classmates include her Gmail account and Blogs (Bhatt, 2012). Facebook, as a digital tool can also be used to communicate directly with other learners particularly through video links and can therefore be beneficial for sharing ideas, conducting discussions, and sharing posts relating to course materials. By supporting discussions, digitals tools enhance adult learning through information sharing. Communications and discussions relating to course materials in social sites are made possible by the internet. According to

Gender Differences In Mobile Phone Use Media Essay

Gender Differences In Mobile Phone Use Media Essay The study aims at exploring the gender differences in mobile phone usage by the male and female. Two main dimensions of mobile phone use are voice call and texting. Following Rubin et al (1988)s six interpersonal motives, the study collects data from a cluster of graduate and undergraduate students to assess what communication motives do they feel gratified while using mobile phones in both the dimensions. Contemporarily, we are passing through a transformation phase where communication technologies are shaping the destinies of new world. Old fashion capital and labour-intensive technologies are being replaced by the innovative technologies which include robotics, cellular communications, miniature motors, super computers, software production and high performance materials. Contemporary technological advancement and improvement like internet and computer mediated communication indicate that the communication technology revolution is still young. Significant aspects of this revolution include speed, integrity, sophistication, and cost. Interestingly, the high cost of telecommunication has been reduced drastically as compared to what it was in the last decade: almost negligible. Similarly, superconductivity and data compression and integration techniques have made it possible to produce mobisodes short episodes for mobile viewers, and webisodes minidramas to view on net and in advertis ements (Vivian, 2007, p.197). The technological boom in the recent times has introduced new facets of media in the cultural settings of every society. Internet and cyber-spacing are stretching the commercial organizations to the boundaries of imagination. Paperless business transactions through e-mails and internet have altered the ways of doing business and changed culture in economic institution. National frontiers do not seem to exist anymore as business alliances have expanded beyond physical boundaries. Logical lines distinguish the businesss nature and extent, while complex transnational commercial alliances are taking place where the manufacturers do not know for whom they are producing and ordering agencies do not know where the products will be marketed and used. Competition has expanded worldwide and capital is flowing through satellites. Such business environment is absolutely unprecedented that has affected the cultural spheres with the same speed and spirit. Other face of technological development is the value of information. Information has become a commodity which affects economics immensely. Contemporary advanced technology has not only made economics to smooth and faster through rapid flow of data and information, but it has also created a culture conducive to economic growth. Similarly, unlike old indicators and predictors of economic growth, communication technology has set new standards and parameters to gauge development of a society. For instance, those who have access to modern technologies and benefit from them and those who dont have access are two main social classes with different cultural identities. Poverty and affluence are two binary features of every society, and they have ramifications on the construction and development of culture of a social system. Technological progress has also affected the primitive social stratification regimes which has bases in economic wealth. New social categories have been created by the technologies. These categories are less economic based rather rely on the degree of diffusion of innovative technologies in a society. The four distinguished features are: high-speed, knowledge intensive, transnational and highly disciplinarian. The old disparities between rich and poor have been overwhelmed by new differences: fast and slow, learning and static, plugged-in and unplugged and localized or globalized. Apparently, the difference between poor and rich is visible from their acquisition of education and institution of enrolment. This distinction is quickly vanishing as poorly staffed educational institutions are being upgraded almost overnight through virtual links with premier universities of the world. Virtual educational environment is developing on strong footings effecting cost and quality parameters of education. Now, due to technological enhancement, it is possible for people to learn anything, anytime, anywhere. Marshal McLuhan prophecies are proving true in present day media dominated societies. He, in early 1960s, focused on a different aspect of technological developments called media determinism. The epistemological assumption of media determinism explains that the society changes its ways of communication with the change of information medium. McLuhan says that new technologies alter the culture for better understanding of the technology and ways to use it. This indicates a constant change process of culture and societal ways of doing things due to fast growing information technologies and emerging media. Medium is the message is the title of McLuhans best selling book where he explains his ultimate position on media determinism. He believes that we shape our tools (media) and they (media) in turn shape us (Griffin, 2003, p.344). For him, it has less significant that what is said, rather how it is delivered matters. Besides global village and medium is the message, McLuhans phrase techn ology as extensions of the human body also attracted media theorist and generated a great debate. Similarly, he used tetrad  [1]  to explain the effects of technology on culture and society. Marshal McLuhan visualised the effects of mass media on society and culture in early 1960s when technological development had not hit media spheres as immensely as it seems now. Due to his prophetic approach in understanding the effects of technology on culture of a society, he gained the status of a cult hero and high priest of pop-culture  [2]  . Literature review The studies on mobile phone use draw on the telephone research based on uses and gratifications perspective. They attempt to explain the reasons people make use of (mobile) phone and what kinds of expectations or gratifications people like to have in (mobile) phone. According to telephone studies, generally two categories of motives are found: instrumental or task-oriented and intrinsic or social motives (e.g., Dimmick et al., 1994b; Fischer, 1988; Keller, 1977; Noble, 1987; OKeefe et al., 1995; Springer, 1981).  Intrinsic use means that people communicate with others through telephone for the purpose of companionship or reassurance, while instrumental use refers to use of telephone for utility, for example, information seeking or making appointments. But the reasons people use mobile phones are a bit different from the reasons they use telephones. Leung Wei (2000) found not only social and instrumental motives of mobile phone use but mobility, immediacy, and fashion/status motives as well. In a similar way, Bae (2001) shows that the Korean peoples satisfactions sought from mobile phone are entertainment, sociability, transaction, Immediacy and privacy. In his study, immediacy and privacy reflect the characteristics of mobile phone communication. Besides, Lee (2001) suggests a variety of motives of Korean college students, like; time management, face and conformity, and showing off. Why do people communicate and what interpersonal motives they essentially gratify from mobile use are interesting aspects addressed in this paper. We understand that mobile phone is primarily a medium of interpersonal communication, of which motives assess ones functional preferences for communication (Rubin et al., 1988). Moreover, these motives affect who people talk to, how they talk, and what they talk about (Barbato et al., 2003, p.126). Interpersonal communication motives refer to basic reasons people communicate with others. Schutz (1966) suggests that interpersonal needs are fulfilled on both behavioral and emotional levels. Behaviorally, inclusion is the need to perform satisfactory interactions and associations with others. Emotionally, it is the need to maintain mutual interests and acknowledge others. Behaviorally, control is the need to initiate or preserve power and influence over others. Emotionally, it is the call for achievement or the need to maintain mutual respect for the capability of others. Behaviorally, affection is the need to initiate or keep relationships based on love, respect, and care. Emotionally, it is the need to achieve or maintain mutual support and connection with others (Schutz, 1966). In Rubin et al.s (1988) seminal study, six motives were identified: pleasure, affection, inclusion, escape, relaxation, and control. Those provoked to communicate for pleasure do so for leisure, stimulation, and entertainment. The people, who were motivated to communicate for affection, do so to show appreciation and concerned for others. Those motivated to communicate for inclusion do so to avoid being lonely. Those motivated to communicate for escape do so to avoid other activities and pass time. Those motivated to communicate for relaxation do so to chill out and rest. Finally, those motivated to communicate for control do so to gain compliance or obedience from others. Robin (1988) divided motives into further two categories: relationally oriented motives (affection, inclusion, pleasure, and relaxation) and personal influence motives (control and escape). Studies have examined motives for communicating in general and motives in specific interpersonal relationships, ranging from n on-intimate to intimate (Bailey et al., 2003). Graham et al (1993) argues that communicating for affective motives is common not just in family relationships but in other intimate dyads such as lovers and close friends. Bailey et al. (2003) adds more that although co-workers are motivated to communicate with one another for relaxation, they are not motivated to communicate with one another for inclusion. The motives to communicate with others of similar relationship type can be different; for instance, the motives to communicate with sons and daughters vary even if both are in parent-child relationships. With this background, we will pay attention to the relationships between six interpersonal motives and mobile phone use. Research is different from other uses and gratifications researches because social and interpersonal aspects of mobile phone use are the focal point; this study addresses how people meet their interpersonal needs through mobile phone. The basic function of mobile phone is to mediate two persons. We generally use a mobile phone to contact others. Especially for young generation, text messaging is one of the most favorite interpersonal channels (Grinter Eldridge, 2001; Kasesniemi et al., 2002). Text messaging seems equal, and in case of youth rather superior, to voice call. Obviously voice call and text messaging are separate and independent media although both are contained in one device. Voice call has higher level of social presence and is richer medium than text messaging. Social presence means the feeling that other actors are jointly involved in communicative interaction (Short et al., 1976, p.65). Likewise media richness refers to the ability of the medium to transmit multiple cues, immediacy of feedback, language variety and personal focus of the medium (Daft Lengel, 1986). Perse Courtright (1993) suggests that text-based interactions (e.g., e-mail, SMS, IMS) have been found to have less social presence or media richness than voice-based interactions (telephone or voice mail) as they lack nonverbal cues compared with other media. Therefore, it is clear that text messaging in a mobile device provides lower level of richness and social presence than mobile phone call does. We, therefore, consider voice and text channels included in a mobile phone as equal alternatives to be selected when people want to communicate with others apart. In gender difference theory, it is generally considered that women differ from men and vice versa. The difference has been typically referred as expressive and instrumental (Parsons Bales, 1955), or as communal and agentic (Bakan, 1966). Parsons Bales (1955) differentiate masculine and feminine quality as instrumental and expressive, respectively. Criterion of such division is situative motivation. So, instrumentality refers orientation of the person to achievement of the purpose outside the situation interpersonal interaction characterized by tolerance to emotional reactions of other persons. Expressivity considers a fulfillment of interests of the person directly on a situation of interpersonal interaction according to emotional reactions of other persons (Parsons Bales, 1955). Similarly, Bakan (1966) notes that gender differences can be divided into communal and agentic dimensions. Communal dimension involves concern for others, whereas agentic behaviors signify a focus on inde pendence. Wajcman (1991) contends that women have been excluded from the connection between men and technology, and that the production and use of technology are shaped by male power and interests. To show the technologys masculinity, he illustrates various social processes interrelated make new technology; for example, computer into an unfamiliar culture for women. In this culture, people cannot help but think women as inferior to men in cognition and performance relating to technology (Ibid). Accordingly, in this study we examine the gender differences in motivations and uses of mobile media. Such exclusive qualities as relation-oriented vs. task-oriented have been identified in different researches. According to Deaux and Lewis (1984), stereotypical man is instrumental, assertive, competitive, dynamic, and task-competent; the stereotypical woman is kind, nurturing, sensitive, relationally oriented, and expressive. In a metaanalysis, Mazzella et al. (1994) concludes that gender differences in personality are generally even across ages, educational levels, and nations. Moreover, popular press propagates gender stereotypes. Masculinity presented by press is strong, ambitious, successful, rational, and non emotional while femininity is attractive, deferential, unaggressive, emotional, nurturing, and concerned with people and relationships (Wood, 1996). Perceptions about new technology are issue to gender analysis, and when observing communication habits, it is important to be aware of the different ways in which male and females view the telephone in general. Men are stereotypically expected to possess technological competence and know how, skills and interest (Lohan, 1997). In contrast to the task-orientated usage that characterizes the male use of the telephone, Lohan (1997) describes female style as person-oriented. Gossip is often a word used to describe what women do on the telephone. Such gender differences are also found in patterns of media behaviors. For a telephone, women use it more than men (Claisse Rowe, 1987; Fischer, 1992) and their motive for using it is primarily intrinsic or social one (Claisse Rowe, 1987; Dimmick, Sikand, Patterson, 1994a; Moyal, 1992; Rakow, 1988). They keep close personal relationship and set up their relationship with others who are at a distance. As for a mobile phone, the gender difference in conventional telephone use seems to have extended. In a research by Leung Wei (2000), men tend to use mobile phone as an instrument to do business while women tend to make social calls, and men make use of it more than women do. In addition women have more attachment to their mobile phones than man do, especially to text massaging (Sun, 2004). Ling et al. (2005), a Norwegian researcher found difference in texting behavior between sexes despite the fact that men were quicker in adopting mobile phone and women became the more enthusiastic texters. On the basis of his deep observations, Linger suggested that women are more adroit and more literary texters. Negating the statement that gender use of mobile phone is becoming similar, study among young Finns (16-20 years) identifies that males tend to ward trendy use (focus on design and technology functions) while females tended toward addictive use (focus on the use value) (Wilska 2003). In Europe, where mobile text messaging is more popular, a recent study shows that female users in the age group of 12 to 25 are apparently more enthusiastic about using SMS as a means of communication than male users (Peters et al, 2003). Samarajiva (2008), in a survey of low-income telephone users in India, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, found little gender differences in calls per month and call duration. Neilsen Mobiles recent data on texting in the U.S. shows a huge bulge in texting for ages 13-17, but the data are not broken down by sex. Theoretical Framework For this study, it has been found that Uses and Gratification approach propounded by Blumer and Katz is the most suitable theory to base the research and its finding. Media users have a free will to decide how they will use the media and how it will affect them. It is an optimistic view of the media according to uses and gratification approach. Blumler and Katzs uses and gratification theory suggests that media users play an active role in choosing and using the media.   Users take an active part in the communication process and are goal oriented in their media use. It is audience-centered approach that a media user seeks out a media source that best fulfills the needs of the user.  The actual needs satisfied by media are called media gratifications. Katz, Gurevitch and Haas (1973) developed 35 needs taken from the social and psychological functions of the mass media and put them into five categories  [3]  : cognitive needs, affective needs, personal integrative needs, social integrative needs, and tension release needs. With respect to modern technology such as mobile phone, this theory still applies. The mobile phone has multiple functions; communication device (voice calls, text messaging), entertainment device (music, games), information source i.e. mobile internet (Google-ing, online news, etc). For this study, mobile phone will serve the communication function of media and will investigate male and female interpersonal motives and the channel (voice call/ text messaging) they prefer most to satisfy their interpersonal needs. Out of above mentioned needs, only six interpersonal needs; inclusion, control, affection, pleasure, escape, and relaxation will be taken in the perspective of both voice calls and text messaging. Blumler Katz wraps up the model that different people can use the same communication message for very different purpose. Single media content may gratify different needs for different individuals and there is not only one way that people use media, there are as many reasons for using the media as there are media users. In interpersonal motive context, one may satisfy his inclusion need through sending a text message but the other may feel it pleasure to send a text message. In the same way it may be an act of escape for a person to make a voice call but the other person may feel relax while making a call. Even a voice call/ text message may possibly satisfy more than one interpersonal needs of the sender/receiver. Research questions Following are the main research questions addressed in this research: RQ1: Are there differences between men and women in frequencies of using voice calls and text messaging. RQ2: Are there differences in men and women in interpersonal motives for using voice call and text messaging? In order to collect data on our main variable, we replicated Rubin et al.s interpersonal motives; inclusion, control, affection, pleasure, escape, and relaxation in context of both voice calls and text messaging. Methodology This is research is quantitative in nature, and data was collected in a survey using a close-ended questionnaire. The instrument was developed to measure the differences between men and women in the interpersonal motives for using voice call and text messaging. Respondents were also asked to report their frequency of mobile phone use, overall number of calls and text messages sent and received in a day. Like most of this kind of researches, we used ordinal level of measurement wherein attributes were rank ordered. Likert scale was used to measure the interpersonal motives.   The population under investigation is mobile phone users from all the universities of Islamabad the capital of Pakistan. Since these mobile phone users are diverse and discrete, it is not easy to investigate the entire population. The researcher adopted cluster sampling technique to collect a sample of 200 students all the six public sector universities, including 100 from each gender. Both genders have been divided in five faculties by randomly selecting forty students from each faculty. For this study, the variables that were conceptualized and operationalized include young adults, text messaging and interpersonal motives.   Young adult are those attaining age between late teens and early twenties. For data collection on this key variable, we selected a group of male and female ages between 18 and 26 as our target population.   According to PC magazine, sending short messages to a smart phone, pager, PDA or other handheld device is called text messaging  [4]  . For this study text message is conceptualized as Short Messaging Service (SMS) through mobile phone, which supports messages of up to 160 characters.   An emotion, desire, physiological need, or similar impulse that acts as an incitement to action is called motive  [5]  . The data have been collected on Rubin et al.s interpersonal motives; inclusion, control, affection, pleasure, escape, and relaxation. The six interpersonal motives have been conceptualized and operationalized in the following manner: Please: The gratification of the senses or mind or agreeable sensations or emotions is called pleasure  [6]  . For the purpose of research pleasure is operationalized as an act that a person do for entertainment, fun and enjoyment. Affection: Affection is a tender feeling toward another  [7]  and was operationalized for this study affection as an act of showing appreciation and care for others. Inclusion: The act of including or the state of being included is called inclusion  [8]  . We have conceptualized inclusion as the desire to be with someone. To avoid being lonely. Escape: Escape means to break loose from confinement or get free  [9]  . For data collection on this motive, we have operationalized escape as to pass the time or avoid other activities. Relaxation: Relaxation is generally taken as rest or freedom from activity/work/strain or responsibility and it is operationalized as an activity to chill out. Control: Controllability is to exercise authoritative or dominating influence over someone or to direct someone  [10]  . For the purpose of data collection on this variable we have operationaized it to gain compliance or obedience from others. Results Of the respondents, our sample was equally represented by both male and female. 24% of the respondents were between the ages of 18-20, 52% were 21-24 years, and 18% were in 24-26 years age bracket, while the remaining 7% were in over 26 years age group. Age distribution of the respondents dont show an even representation of all age groups as the research emphasis was on even gender representation. However in the income distribution, 33% of the respondents fell in the 20-30 (thousand) category, while 28% fell in 31-40 (thousand) category. Only 17% 21% fell in 41-50(thousand) and above 50 thousand categories respectively. In Pakistan, income below Rs.30,000 is considered below average, and average between Rs.30,000 and Rs.40,000, while people with income over Rs.40,000 is considered good. However, it greatly depends on the area one lives in besides the size of family. Gender difference in communication motives was calculated on the basis of six interpersonal motives (inclusion, control, affection, pleasure, escape, and relaxation) in context of voice call and text messaging and use of mobile phone was calculated on the basis of calls and text messages sent or received in a day. Results indicate that 36% of the respondents use mobile phone very often, 52% often, while 11% of the respondents use their cell seldom and only 1% reported that they dont use mobile phone daily. In the context of voice call and text messaging, inclusion and affection motives are closely related to each other as 68%, 56% agree, and 16%, 32% strongly agree to the statement respectively that they make a voice call / text messaging to show affection and care to their dear ones. While 50%, 49% agree and 14%, 30% strongly agree to the statement respectively that they make a voice call / send text message to be with someone or avoid being loneliness. RQ1: Are there differences between men and women in frequencies of using voice calls and text messaging. Descriptive statistics indicate no significance difference in mobile phone use among male and female users. Almost equal percentage (male: 92% female: 84%) of our population used mobile. Hence, the results do not indicate any significant difference in mobile phone by both the genders. Five bands with options 0-10, 11-20, 21-30, 31-40 and over 40 calls in a day were employed to observe the differences in call making in both the genders. The sample was described in three categories, viz; casual, moderate and excessive users of mobile for calls and text messaging. Our results indicate that female casual and excessive users make more phone calls than male casual and excessive users, while there is hardly any significant difference in mobile call making between the moderate users of both the genders. On the other hand, the results indicate that males are more profound texters than females in almost all the categories of users. RQ2: Are there differences in men and women in interpersonal motives for using voice call and text messaging? The study collected data on six interpersonal motives as defined earlier, namely; pleasure, inclusion, control, affection, escape, and relaxation in the context of both voice calls and text messaging. Our data predict that male segment strongly disagrees (54%) with this notion that when they are interested to seek pleasure they opt for call making as compared to a relatively smaller proportion (31%) who opt for making a call when seeking for pleasure. Females are also not found to be very different from males in this context. The prime reason seems to be the call rates which are though not very high, but most of our population is not earning hands rather students, for them cost for pleasure seeking matters. On text messaging for pleasure, the results indicate that most of our population (65%) agrees to that they opt for SMS use. However, males have been found to be heavy users of text messages for pleasure seeking motive as compared to females. For the interpersonal motive of inclusion, our results show that majority (65%) of both males and females opt for making a call to their friends. But, 28% of both the genders could not to judge their opinion on this. In gender difference perspective, the male segment of our population has been found to be making more voice calls than females in order to talk to or be with someone. On the other hand for text messaging, the results point out that majority (75%) opts for text messaging to gratify their interpersonal motive of inclusion. Furthermore, as compared to females (60%), male (99%) send more text messages when they need to talk to someone. For interpersonal motive of relaxation, considerably large number (45%) of our population has been found to be using voice call option. For reasons to be explored, it has also been found that about 23% of our population did not opt for either agreement or disagreement rather was suffering from ambivalence. And both the genders were equal in size on ambivalence state. Nevertheless, female segment has been found to be using voice calls slightly more (45%) than males (38%) to satisfy their interpersonal motive of relaxation. On text messaging pretext, data collected indicates that a good number of respondents (65%) opt for SMS to chill out. We could not find out any significant difference between the genders on the use of text messaging to relax. Interestingly, about 60% of both the genders have been found to be uncertain in their feelings whether they do opt for voice call to gratify their interpersonal motive of control which was operationalized as to gain compliance or obedience from friends and people around when they ask them anything to do. Only 33% of the respondents have agreed that they opt for voice call to gain obedience or compliance from their friends, of which males (46%) are greater in size than females (21%). The picture has not been very different in text messaging as about 53% of the sample was confused about their action. We could not observe any significant difference in gender usage of text messaging for this interpersonal motive. When affection motive is investigated for gender difference in context of both voice call and text messaging, it is revealed that females (91%) prefer text message to show affection while males (77%) like to make a voice call to show love and care to their dear ones. Though males have not been lesser in size (80%) who wish to convey affection to their friends and family through text, however, conveying their affection through voice calls is their preferred mode of communication. With regard to escape as interpersonal motive, we have found a confused response as a handful number of the respondents (30%) opted for dont know option. For voice call, we have found clear divide among the respondents, of almost same size, opting for a voice call and not agreeing to making a voice call to gratify their interpersonal need of escape. There is no significant difference of gender variable on this variable. Same response has been found in text messaging in both the genders. An ambivalent response to whether they opt for text messaging to gratify their interpersonal motive of escape, and same almost equal divide in their responses as we observed voice call option. Besides above variables, the study attempted to know the quantum of calls made, received and text sent and received on average in a day by the both the genders. For all the categories, three classes have been constructed: causal, moderate

Siddhartha and The Razor’s Edge Essay -- Essays Papers

Siddhartha and The Razor’s Edge The book Siddhartha and the movie The Razor’s Edge are two similar yet different stories. Each these two works explore man’s search for truth, self, and life’s true meaning. The main characters of these stories are very different people, yet they are in search of similar goals. The main character of Siddhartha is Siddhartha. The main character of The Razor’s Edge is Larry Darryl. Larry and Siddhartha go through several stages of their lives, which range from rich to poor and back again. Siddhartha was a Brahmin’s son, of the upper class in India. He is loved throughout his community. He is revered by all that knows him. He spends his day in meditation and thought. He brings joy to all, but in his heart & soul he isn’t happy. He feels that he can learn any more from the wise men of his village because he has acquired all of their knowledge and they don’t know everything. Most importantly they do not know Atman. A group of Samanas enters his village and intrigues him. He decides to leave his village to become a Samana. He tells his best friend Govinda and he decides to come too, but first Siddhartha must tell his father. He goes one day to tell his father, but his father won’t allow it. Siddhartha stands in his father all night until his father lets him go. When Siddhartha and Govinda join they began to learn their â€Å"tricks.† Siddhartha lived without possessions or a home. He learned to fast, think, and wait. He began exiting his body through meditation and entering objects and animals. Soon he realizes that he must leave because they are only learning to escape pain (Self), and they can’t teach him any more. When he and Govinda leave Govinda tells Siddhartha of Gotama (the enlightened one) and they go to see him. When Govinda leaves he tells the leader of the Samanas and he becomes angered. Siddhartha hypnotizes (a trick that he learned from the Samanas) the leader and he allows them to leave. They find Gotama and all of his followers in Jetavana grove. They are taken by his enlightened aura. After hearing him speak Govinda swears allegiance to Gotama. Siddhartha takes everything that Gotama says to heart, but realizes that he must follow his own path. Siddhartha begins to look at the world differently. He isn’t concerned with the other realm he begins to focus on the world as it is. ... ... you live your life there is no earthly reward, he then goes back to America. Each story is it’s own yet the same. Larry wants to feel fulfilled in life and he is searching for a way to do so. Siddhartha wants to become enlightened. Each trekked through India searching for answers. Larry and Siddhartha were both of the upper class. Both men were loved by all who came into contact with them. They both forged special relationships with women living unholy lives. Each walked out on their respective lives in search of truth. Both men reduced their living standards by freewill at one point in their lives. Certain teachers/guides have helped them find enlightenment. Each man learned and practiced a form of meditation. The two men were very similar and were after similar goals, they just took different paths. The Razor’s Edge and Siddhartha are two works that take you on life journeys. I really didn’t see any similarities the first time I saw the movie, but the next time I watched it I really noticed the similarities. In the end they both found enlightenment in some way. Larry realized there were no rewards in life and Siddhartha became Buddha.