Economics DD202B-1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Economics DD202B-1 - Essay Example Every other economic variable gave up simultaneously as is obvious from the next graph that depicts the trends taken by the rate of unemployment and that of inflation. While the rate of unemployment had reached a peak during 1933 when it equalled 25.2%, the rate of inflation as measured by the GDP deflator had been -11.46% in 1932. Hence, the economy at that point of time was suffering from a heavy recession. In fact, such was the vigour of the crisis that the monetarists could not inject liquidity into the nation even through lowering the rate of interest, supposed to discourage deposits and encourage loans. People around the economy had lost their trust in its fundamentals and wanted to hold back whatever they could, so that aggregate demand was low. A low aggregate demand triggered a low aggregate supply and thus, equilibrium output production was low as well. The national government in their attempt to correct the scenario, restricted international trade and adopted a protectioni st policy, which deteriorated the problem further. It was when every school of economics had failed to correct the impact of Great Depression that the Keynesian school of economics came to as the rescuer. John Maynard Keynes ruled out the prevailing classical concepts of economic growth. Instead he stressed upon spending of more money. He instructed the national government to open up to international trade and hence, stimulate aggregate demand and supply. Moreover, he also suggested the administration to invest heftily into the economy even if that amounted to incurring deficits. Moreover, the rate of employment must be at its maximum achievable point so that people start earning and hence are instigated towards more spending (Barro, 2008, p. 405). This strategy introduced by Keynes came to be known in macroeconomics as the Keynesian school of

The Importance Of Personal Networks Social Work Essay

The Importance Of Personal Networks Social Work Essay Personal networks are an important factor in peoples daily lives. People who are embeded in a network of personal relationships experience a higher level of well-being than those who are socially isolated.The following is a critical reflection analysis about themes that I found to be most meaningful during the course of the term. The themes include the importance of a social network for the older adult, as well as how this type of network can impact their quality of life. An exploration of these themes will be provided using literature along with my own personal experience. This reflection will highlight the insight that I have gained from this analysis as it relates to my future nursing practice. In addition this reflection will address nursing implications for providing superior client relations. Exploration of Themes Social relationships of older adults along with their access to social support networks can influence the general health and well being of this population ( ). The existences of social support networks are important for the older adults identity, self-respect, social integration, feeling of security, companionship, as well as practical and emotional support. For example, my grandparents live alone, however, at the same time they have a network of friends, relatives and inter-faith community members on which they can depend on. On the other hand, my neighbour who is 76 years and widowed, is isolated from meaningful and supportive social relationships. My insight into the plight of the elderly, combined with my compassion towards this vulnerable population, compels me to visit her home and spend prolonged time in conversation. We talk at length about her day, her baking, and her fond memories. My neighbour often expresses a deep sense of appreciation for my frequent visits and I feel s atisfacation that she allows me to participate in her enthusiasm and happiness. A social network can stimulate the mind of the older adult as well as increase their level of energy and motivation. If the older adult lacks the support of a social network, it can often lead to isolation and depression ( ). There are a variety of social factors that contribute to an older adult being socially isolated. This includes being female, having a low income, being widowed or divorced, are experiencing family conflicts, and lastly who are experiencing ageism (BC article). According to these criteria, my neighbour is definitely at risk of being socially isolated. Evidence suggests that there are health promoting effects of social relationships. Socially isolated older adults have a two-fold increase in mortality from all causes (Jeannette, 2009). A lack of social support among the older adult population has been associated with a variety of adverse health outcomes in older age, ranging from depression and self-harm, to deteriorating physical health. (Jeanneate) (Dennis et al ., 2005). Research supports that various types of social support from different sources are associated with positive health outcomes. Social relationships are also thought to be a key factor in psychological health including an individuals happiness and subjective well being (tomaka). In a study that looked at the ranking of importance of different aspects of life for adults over the age of 65, they consistently ranked their relationships with their family and friends as the second most important factor after their health (Kobayashi, Cloutier-Fisher Roth, 2008). Among the older adult population, the social integration and overall participation in society are considered vital indicators of productive and health ageing ( ). According to the World Health Organization (2003), social support for the older adult population has a strong protective effect on overall health and can influence their quality of life (QOL). The QOL for the older adult that have chronic illnesses and who live at home are highly influenced by the presence of and the accessibility to social networks. Therefore, finding ways to help older adults engage in social networks that are productive and enjoyable is an important aspect of ageing. Future Nursing Practice and Nursing Implications Throughout my analysis, I have gained a great deal of insight with regard to the importance of a having a social network and its impact on the QOL of older adults. It has increased my awareness and compassion to the importance of friends, family and community support in creating a social network for the older adult in order to maintain or increase their overall QOL. It is important to reduce the amount of isolation that older adults face even those that have families. In practice, it is paramount for nurses to be aware of the older adults social support networks, along with advocating for the creation of further networks in order to tailor to the complex needs of older adults. Upon reflection, I would use Newmans theory of Health as Expanding Consciousness as my approach when I consider the importance of ensuring that social support networks are in place for my clients prior to discharge from a hospital. Newman (2004) describes human beings as open energy systems in constant interac tion with the environment. Therefore, the way for nurses to understand the health of an older adult is by understanding the individuals pattern of relating to the environment. Thus being said, the social network of an adult is crucial to reduce dependency among the older adult population by improving time spent with this group and having more interaction with the elderly (Souraya LeClerc, 2008) In conclusion, despite the salience of recent studies devoted to ageism that examines social support and well-being, this body of nursing research has paid limited attention to the increasing prevalence of social isolation among older adults in Canada or its relationship with health status. More research is needed in these areas as older adult Canadians are living longer, alone, and with a reduced number of social contacts (McPherson, 2004). Social isolation is not an easy topic for policy. It is a problem that cannot be identified with more familiar social topics as education, economic independence, societal participation and social cohesion. Nurses need to advocate on the importance of gaining emotional, practical and relational support for this population. This reflection has brought up the issue of mental health among the older adult population. From a personal standpoint, it saddens me to see the lack of interaction that exist among the older adult population suffering from a mental illness. I believe that further attention needs to be focused in this area by creating more social support programs and increasing access to these services for this cohort. As a result of this experience I have become more professionally attentive to my interactions with the older adult client on the units that I am working on. Being empathetic has made me realize that it must be challenging for the older adult to be looked after as they were once independent individuals who could take care of themselves. I can see how nurses can become frustrated with this population combined with a heavy workload, but I do feel that this population carries with them a lot of wealth and wisdom. Introduction Identification of theme(s) in your reflective writing. Exploration and analysis of themes that are most meaningful to you Significant learning or insights gained from your analysis that will guide your practice Nursing implications Choose any 2 topics; use references; combination reflection + scholarly Jeannette, G., et al. (2009). Loneliness, social support networks, mood and wellbeing in community-dwelling elderly. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry,24 (7): 694- 700. Tomaka, J., Thompson, S., Palacios, S. (2006). The relation of social isolation, loneliness, and social support to disease outcomes among the elderly. Journal of Ageing and Health, 18(3), 359-384.   Kobayashi, K., Cloutier-Fisher, D., Roth, M. (2008). Making meaningful connections: a profile of social isolation and health among older adults in small town and small city, British Columbia. Journal of aging and health, 21(2), 374. When measuring the level of access that older adults have to social support networks or the risk of social isolation, it can provide a valuable means to gathering information on their living arrangements (stats can).

Is College Worth The Effort? Essay -- Argumentative Persuasive Essays

Is College Worth The Effort? "College has been a total waste of your time and money!" Imagine telling that to a student who just finished four years of hard, grueling, expensive work; or, even worse, a parent who paid for their child to finish that same grueling work. But, in some ways, that statement can’t be any further from the truth. College can prepare a student for life in so many more ways than for a career. However, in the way that college is supposed to prepare soon-to-be-productive students, that statement could be right on. As a student myself, I’ve found college to be a little bit of both. I often find myself asking, "How will this help me later in life?" But, then again, college gives me more control over my life and where I want it to go. In trying to figure out what exactly made college like this, and whether the way I felt was felt by others as well, I interviewed an Anthropology teacher at Las Positas College, Mr. Toby Coles, and I examined an essay by Caroline Bird called College is a Waste of Time and Money. The two sources offered int eresting views from both side of the spectrum. While interviewing Mr. Coles, I found I tended to agree with him on several of his points. Mr. Coles summed up himself, and how I feel, quite simply: "College gives you options." Unlike high school, you’re not required to fulfill a certain number of units in one year. If you have other plans for your life, you can accommodate those while going to school. But, that applies not only while you’re in college, but also when you get out of college. "Life’s about choices," Mr. Coles continued, "it’s about having choices. You come to critical points in your life where decisions have to be made, hopefully you have some options...[... ...of the basic purposes of education: career preparation." I don’t agree with this at all. I think that college should really be a little of both. Obviously you go to college to get a degree, which starts you in a career, so that’s the career preparation part of it. But, there’s also so much more to college that helps you with later in life. Both views that Caroline Bird and Mr. Toby Coles had on what college does for a student are opposing, but both are interesting. I don’t feel that college has been a waste of my time or money. At least not yet. Works Cited Bird, Caroline. "College is a Waste of Time and Money." The Norton Reader: An Anthology of Expository Prose. 9th ed. Ed. Linda H. Peterson et. al. New York: W.W. Norton & Company, 1996. 481-490. Coles, Flournoy "Toby", Anthropology Teacher, Las Positas College. Personal Interview. 19 April, 1999

Discuss the dramatic significance of Hamlet Scene 1 Act 1 Essay

The play ‘Hamlet’ was written in tempestuous times for England. There was death caused by ‘The Plague’ and poverty was rampant. Much importance surrounded the outward support of the monarch, Elizabeth. During her reign, religion caused divisions and factions of the Protestant church considered the theatre as sinful, amoral perhaps. In his plays, Shakespeare uses his understanding of humanity to entertain by addressing love, power, loyalty, honour and friendship. These values address unchanging aspects that touch us even today. ‘Hamlet’ is intended to portray the importance of the monarchy and the insecurity created by the threat of a foreign invasion – the message being that anything can happen to anyone. This then is the underlying setting of the theme for ‘Hamlet’ – taking place on a dark winter night, creating suspense, intrigue and providing entertainment to an otherwise deprived audience. In the opening, Act 1 and Scene 1 of ‘Hamlet’, the playwright, William Shakespeare, uses several dramatical devices to influence the crowd’s moods, behaviour and attitude towards the play; this is known as psychological audience manipulation. Shakespeare cleverly uses one – dimensional characters to deliver background information to the audience in a more entertaining style. The setting – the guard – platform of the Castle, on a dark, wintry cold night at midnight further intensifies the dramatic effect. ‘Who’s there? ‘ – and ‘Quiet guard’ – these statements imply a foreboding. Immediately the audience is captivated, particularly when one associates midnight with evil. The statements: ‘Tis now struck twelve’ and ‘Bitter cold’ further add to the dramatic mood that is being created. Francisco’s admission: ‘I am sick at heart’ has a negative connotation, suggesting feelings of uneasiness. Bernardo’s reply: ‘ Bid them make haste ‘ – he is obviously scared of something. A reference to loyalty to the Sovereign follows, ‘Friends to this ground’ and ‘Liegemen to the Dane’- here Shakespeare uses a manipulative technique to address the importance of remaining patriotic – an aspect of life everyone can identify with. Again it is suggested that they are engulfed by darkness and they can only see that which is really close up to them: ‘ A piece of him’. By extending his hand, Horatio reassures the guards that he is a friend not a foe. There are sinister undertones at the outset of the scene, which effectively serve to introduce the tenor of the play. Despite this, there is a hint of humour and sarcasm by Horatio : ‘What, has his thing appear’d again to-night? ‘ An air of intrigue is created by this: it is not known what it is is actually being referred to. It is Marcellus who then goes on to explain to the audience what Horatio’s views are: ‘And will not let belief take hold of him’ – this means that he will not allow himself to believe anything of a supernatural nature. He has been invited to see if: ‘This apparition come’, but remains unyielding in his opinion: ‘ Tush, tush ’twill not appear’. Bernardo tries to convince Horatio, ‘Again assail your ears’. Another example is: ‘That are so fortified against our story’. Here he is openly addressing Horatio’s incredulity on the subject of the spectre. Bernardo recounts how the Ghost appeared and that the ‘Yond same star’ was in the same place, when it had originally appeared, adding to the drama and heralding its reappearance. An essentially frightened audience is introduced to the Ghost. ‘ Like the King that’s dead’. Even the originally sceptical Horatio is outwardly scared now, raising the intensity of the drama. ‘It harrows me with fear and wonder:’ he uses strong language. It therefore fell upon Horatio, who was encouraged by the other guards, to address the Ghost in order to attest that this spectre was real. The well spoken Horatio, the scholar states:’ What art thou that usurp’st this time of night’ – by this he suggests that the Ghost has upset the peace of the night and has taken ‘ That fair and warlike form’. By this reference, the audience is psychologically manipulated into feeling admiration for the dead king. He further challenges: ‘ By heaven I charge thee, speak! ‘ The scene continues and Horatio admits to believing because he has seen with the: ‘True avouch of mine own eyes’. Horatio recalls the previous battle with Denmark and Norway: this is political propaganda, which is the strong theme for the play, providing essential background information. This also casts a positive reflection of the previous king: ‘When he the ambitious Norway combated’ – this already gives the audience a positive reflection on the deceased King, as we are told of his bravery, ‘He smote the sledded Polacks on the ice. ‘ It also suggests that the king may have some unfinished business and that is why he has returned as the Ghost three times. Horatio warns the audience that: ‘This bodes some strange eruption to our state, ‘ moreover, this is a warning of the inevitability that: Denmark may be on the brink of war. There are other suggestions of this: ‘Daily cast of brazen cannon. ‘ This infers that people are working round the clock. All this creates a sense of apprehension. Shakespeare attempts to draw a parallel with ancient Rome: Horatio now eloquently delivers his views and this has a religious connotation. Examples of this are made by: ‘In the most high and palmy state of Rome’ and ‘ Was sick almost to doomsday with eclipse’ and ‘As harbingers preceding still the fates’. The conjecture here is that the Ghost is the forerunner of what is yet to come and also is connected with the Bible, as was prophesised that Christ would come to judge the living and the dead. This is effective use of imagery and is symbolic would most certainly create a growing sense of fear in the audience. Another biblical reference with far reaching effects is: ‘The cock crows’: this suggests betrayal and moreover, ‘And at his warning’ is ominous. There is dramatic impetus by Horatio and he uses aggressive language on the Ghost’s reappearance: ‘I’ll cross it, though it blast me. Stay illusion. ‘ He asks ‘ If thou art privy to thy country’s fate’- can the Ghost share a secret, any light on what lies ahead for Denmark? Despite the audience not having being introduced to Hamlet, we are psychologically manipulated into feeling sorry for him and empathise with him. In the indirect reference made to him we understand that Horatio suggests that they tell young Hamlet of the appearance of the Ghost. We learn that there is staunch support for Hamlet: ‘As needful in our loves, fitting our duty? ‘ In the space of a few days, sadly, his father has passed away: ‘The majesty of buried Denmark ‘. His rightful inheritance has been taken from him: ‘ So by his father lost’ which suggests that he is in mourning and ‘This, I take it is the main motive of our preparations’ – to take back that which was theirs. This automatically gives the audience someone to support and â€Å"root for† in ‘Young Hamlet’ as the play unfolds and we learn more of his personal story. This is linked to another theme that the audience can identify with: family values. The element of mystery and foreboding are inherently present in Act One, Scene One and is further personified in the form of an apparition, ‘This apparition come. ‘ The contemporary audience that this was aimed at, being more religiously aware than the public nowadays, would have been fearful of the spectre and would have made links to the devil and hell, gaining the audience’s full attention. By the spreading of its arms, it has connotations to Jesus Christ, creating a sombre aura. They are encouraged to believe that the Ghost is an omen: ‘ That this portentous figure’, is a sign that they are ready for battle. Essentially, the mood further reflects insecurity as Denmark may be on the verge of war. A clever technique Shakespeare uses serves to encourage loyalty to the monarch at the time, ‘Long live the King’. Therefore, he has put his political views forward successfully and with discretion. The Ghost exits, leaving everyone none the wiser as to the reason for its apparition. The first Act and Scene allows for speculation and would have created a sense of dramatic anticipation, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats, ready to see what will ensue in the next scene.

Math Lab Evaluation Paper

The Math lab evaluation Have you ever been to a place that is depressing, gloomy, and absolutely apathetic? If not then by all means make a point to go by and visit the math lab. As a student of the University of South Alabama I have been asked to evaluate the math lab by my supervisor. My supervisor had received various complaints by students, for that reason I have been asked to observe the math lab record what I saw and write down any suggestions for change. During this evaluation I will discuss the pros and cons of the environment in the math lab. This evaluation will serve a purpose for both present and future math students.As you enter the fifteen hundred square foot room the first thing you will see is approximately fifty computers on your right against the wall and in the center of the room there are ten round tables with six computers on each one, some of which are designated for testing only as for the others they are used for classes. There are a total of one hundred and f ifty computers. The room has several spaces separated by temporary partition walls that do very little to block sounds and serve very little purpose. There are student workers walking around that tutor the students as needed.There are also many students throughout the room at their individual computer station. At the time of my observation there were no classes in progress and all the professors were in their office, which are located at the far end of the lab. The math labs hours of operation are Monday through Thursday from nine am to nine pm and nine am to five pm on Friday they are closed on Saturday but open again on Sunday from three pm to nine pm. Although there is not a class in session you will still see students working to fulfill their required minutes in the math lab that has been assigned every week by their professor.Tutors and instructors are available during all operating hours to assist students. Students appear to be unable to focus due to various distractions like the constant noise of some of the math tutors joking with one another and the lights flickering throughout the room is also very distracting. The computers are located only a foot or so apart so if anyone were to sit next to you and make any type of movement like simply erase something or write, shakes the whole table.The sound of students that are coming and going throughout my observation because it is a work at your pace type of curriculum. The temperature in the lab was sixty five degrees which for a cold nature person would be uncomfortable making it difficult to study comfortably for a long period of time. Some of the rules that are enforced within the math lab are as follows no cell phones, no eating, no drinking, and no music. I would make the following changes in the math lab to make it a more productive and studious environment.Starting with the noise level of the room I would make the tutors aware of the complaints because of their actions and the effect on students they have caused. Secondly I would space the computers further apart that are against the walls. I would also add individual partition walls between each computer therefor blocking routine noises made by working students. This also provides privacy when trying to concentrate and study making the students more comfortable and able to work quietly. I would raise the temperature in the room to seventy two degrees which is an ideal temperature.Although rules are very necessary It is a fact that music can help students retain and comprehend knowledge for that reason I would change the rule and allow students to listen to music but only with individual ear buds. The suggestions were implemented and students agreed that the privacy of the individual spaces made it a much more enjoyable learning environment; they were able to get more accomplished in a shorter amount of time. The tutors were more respectful and worked hard to be very helpful to the best of their ability. Allowing the students t o listen to music helped them to focus and not to feel so stressed when working.The temperature was set at seventy two degrees. Students and faculty both agree that it was an ideal temperature. The lights were fixed and no longer flicker furthermore they do not cause any more distractions. The room is no longer a gloomy dreadful place nor is it apathetic but now the atmosphere is enjoyable. Students no longer dread going to the math lab and their grade averages have continued to go up. So overall I would have given it a C minus before any changes were implemented but after I would give it an A after seeing the positive results.