Introduction to Oboe and Bassoon

An Introduction Oboe and Bassoon By Marie A Rogers 300005290 Woodwind Techniques 1 1010-1100 Mr. Robinson The oboe is a soprano-range double reed instrument with a length of 62cm. Its wooden tube is distinguished by a conical bore that expands into a flaring bell. The modern oboe’s range extends from the B flat below middle C (b3 flat) to about 3 octaves higher (A6). The oboe has a very narrow conical bore. It is played with a double reed consisting of two thin blades of cane tied together on a small metal tube called a staple, which is inserted into the reed socket at the top of the instrument.Traditionally made from African Blackwood, also called grenadilla, the instrument is made in 3 parts. The top joint has 10 or 11 holes, most of which are manipulated by the players left hand. The bottom joint also has 10 holes, which are predominately controlled by the right hand. The bell has 2 keys that are not used very much by the player. Oboe History The baroque oboe first appeared in the French court in the mid-17th century, where it was called â€Å"hautbois†. This name was also used for its predecessor, the shawm. The basic form of the hautbois was derived from the shawm.Major differences between the two instruments include division into 3 sections or joints, for the hautbois, and the elimination of the pirouette, a cup placed over the reed that enabled the shawm players to produce greater volume. The latter develop more than any other, was responsible for bringing the hautbois indoors where, thanks to its more refined sound and style of playing, it took up a permanent place in the orchestra. Classical period brought upon an oboe whose bore was gradually narrowed, and the instrument became outfitted with several keys, among them were those for the notes D#, F, and G#.A key similar to the modern octave key was also added called the â€Å"slur key†. It was used more like the â€Å"flick† keys on the modern German Bassoon. Only later did French instrument makers redesign the octave key to be used in the manner of the modern key i. e. held open or upper register, closed for lower. The narrower bore allowed the higher notes to be played easier, and composers began to utilize the upper register of the oboe in their works. Oboe Reeds Most professional oboists make their own reeds since every oboist needs a slightly different reed to suit his or her individual needs.By making their own reeds, oboists can precisely control factors such as tone color and intonation. Novice players often begin playing on â€Å"fibrecane reed† which is made of synthetic material. Fibrecane reeds are much easier for the novice to control and take a shorter amount of time to ‘break in†, and usually last longer. After learning on fibrecane reeds, which are available in several degrees of hardness, a medium reed usually being used. These reed, like Clarinet and Bassoon reeds are made of arundo donax. Different types of OboesTh e oboe has several family members. The most widely known today is the Cone Anglais or English Horn, the tenor (or alto) member of the family. A transposing instrument, it is pitched in F, a perfect 5th lower than the oboe. The Oboe d’ Amore the alto (or mezzo soprano) member of the family, is pitched in A, a minor 3rd lower than the Oboe. A less commonly played instrument is the Bass Oboe which is an octave lower than the oboe. Even less common is the Hecklephone, which has a wider bore and larger tone than the bass oboe. Only 165 hecklephones have ever been made.Its hard to find competent players because of the rarity of the instrument. The least common is the mussette or (piccolo oboe), the sopranino member of the family (usually pitched in Eflat or F above the oboe), and the Contrabass Oboe ( typically pitched in C, 2 octaves deeper than the standard oboe). The Bassoon Bassoon is a member of the double-reed family, and generally plays in the bass and tenor registers. The b assoon plays most commonly in concert bands, orchestras and chamber ensembles. It is a non transposing instrument.The bassoon is generally made of maple, with medium hard types of wood, such as sycamore, maple and sugar maple preferred. Less expensive models are also made of materials such as polypropylene and ebonite, primarily for student and outdoor use. The bassoon is 4. 4 feet long. The bore of the bassoon is conical, and the two parallel bores of the boot joint are connected at the bottom of the instrument with a U- shaped metal connector. Both bore and tone holes are precision machined, and each instrument is finished by hand for proper tuning.The bocal connects the reed to the rest of the instrument and is inserted into a socket at the top of the wing joint. The range of the bassoon begins at bflat 1 and extends upward over 3 octaves. Bassoon history Earlier bassoons were called â€Å"Dulcian†. They two instruments are quite similar; they both have a double reed fitte d into a metal crook, obliquely drilled tone holes, and a conical bore that doubles back on itself. The origins of the dulcian are not clear, but by the mid 16th century it was available in 8 different sizes from soprano to great bass.Its primary function seems to have been to provide the bass in a typical wind band of the time. Early â€Å"dulcian† technique was rather primitive, with 8 finger holes and generally one key, indicating that it could only play in a few keys. The Baroque period was when the bassoon became very similar to what it is today. The man most likely responsible for developing the true Bassoon was Martin Hottorre. He was responsible for breaking the instrument down the one-piece dulcian into 4 sections (bell, bass joint, boot and wing joint).The modern Bassoon exists in two distinct primary forms the Buffett system and the Heckle system. Most of the world plays the Heckle system, while the Buffett system is primarily in France, Belgium, and parts of Latin America. Bassoon techniques The Bassoon is held diagonally in front of the player, but unlike the flute, oboe, and clarinet, it cannot be supported by the players hands alone. Some means of additional support is required; the most common ones used are a neck strap or shoulder harness attached to the top of the boot joint, a seat trap attached to the base of the boot joint which is laid across the chair seat prior to sitting down. To stabilize the right hand, many Bassoonists use an adjustable common shaped apparatus called a â€Å"crutch†, which mounts to the boot joint. An aspect of Bassoon playing technique called flicking involves the momentary pressing or â€Å"flicking† of the high A, C, and D keys by the left hand thumb at the beginning of certain note in the middle octave in order to eliminate the cracking or brief microphonic that happens without the use of the key.Bassoon Reeds Bassoon reeds, made of Arundo donax cane, are often made by the players themselves , although beginner bassoonists tend to buy their reeds from professional reed makers or use reeds made by their teachers. Reeds begin with a length of tube cane that is split into three or four pieces. The cane is then trimmed and gouged to the desired thickness, leaving the bark attached. After soaking, the gouged cane is cut to the proper shape and milled to the desired thickness, or profile, by removing material from the bark side.This can be done by hand with a file; more frequently it is done with a machine or tool designed for the purpose. After the profiled cane has soaked once again it is folded over in the middle. Prior to soaking, the reed maker will have lightly scored the bark with parallel lines with a knife; this ensures that the cane will assume a cylindrical shape during the forming stage. On the bark portion, the reed maker binds on three coils or loops of brass wire to aid in the final forming process. The exact placement of these loops can vary somewhat depending on the reed maker.The bound reed blank is then wrapped with thick cotton or linen thread to protect it, and a conical steel mandrel (which sometimes has been heated in a flame) is quickly inserted in between the blades. Using a special pair of pliers, the reed maker presses down the cane, making it conform to the shape of the mandrel. (The steam generated by the heated mandrel causes the cane to permanently assume the shape of the mandrel. ) The upper portion of the cavity thus created is called the â€Å"throat†, and its shape has an influence on the final playing characteristics of the reed.The lower, mostly cylindrical portion will be reamed out with a special tool, allowing the reed to fit on the bocal. After the reed has dried, the wires are tightened around the reed, which has shrunk after drying. The lower part is sealed (a nitrocellulose-based cement such as Duco may be used) and then wrapped with thread to ensure both that no air leaks out through the bottom of the reed and that the reed maintains its shape. The wrapping itself is often sealed with Duco or clear nail varnish (polish).The bulge in the wrapping is sometimes referred to as the â€Å"Turk's head†Ã¢â‚¬â€it serves as a convenient handle when inserting the reed on the bocal. To finish the reed, the end of the reed blank, originally at the center of the unfolded piece of cane, is cut off, creating an opening. The blades above the first wire are now roughly 27–30 mm (1. 1–1. 2 in) long. In order for the reed to play, a slight bevel must be created at the tip with a knife, although there is also a machine that can perform this function. Other adjustments with the knife may be necessary, depending on the hardness and profile of the cane and the requirements of the player.The reed opening may also need to be adjusted by squeezing either the first or second wire with the pliers. Additional material may be removed from the sides (the â€Å"channels†) or tip to b alance the reed. Additionally, if the â€Å"e† in the staff is sagging in pitch, it may be necessary to â€Å"clip† the reed by removing 1–2 mm (0. 039–0. 079 in) from its length. Playing styles of individual bassoonists vary greatly; because of this, most advanced players will make their own reeds, in the process customizing them to their individual playing requirements.

High School Attendance Essay

High school represents a stage where majority of students grow up and attain an advanced degree of self-comprehension. This period is therefore very vital both to immediate school life and the life beyond school. Mandatory school turn out could well reflect the importance placed on schooling as well as the appreciation of the role education plays in preparing children and youth to become productive adults. Students who consistently attend school are exposed to more learning than their counterparts who exhibit infrequent school turn out. Chances for students excelling academically are directly proportional to the number of instances students are present in school. On the contrary, scholars who skip school are more likely to be involved in grave social harms and enter into troubles. Truancy, or Skipping School, is the term given to unjustifiable school absenteeism with no knowledge of guardians or parents. Recurring illnesses and family problems usually result in absenteeism. However, such absenteeism is not of crucial concern to school administrators. Rather, unjustifiable absenteeism is the bone of contention plaguing schools both in America and elsewhere. Chronic absenteeism predisposes student offenders to both academic and social problems. Every state requires all school-age juveniles to be present at school. Research has persistently established that a student’s academic accomplishment is more closely linked to school punctuality and attendance than any other factor that is controllable by the student and their families. Recurrent student absentees depict poor performance and are prone to penalization through exam scores. It is necessary that students are present in classrooms to profit by listening to teachers and interacting and exchanging ideas with fellow students and teachers. Extreme nonattendance influences the classroom culture by occasioning unsatisfactory or incomplete work, undermining of academic progress, reduced course scores and limited ability to satisfy curricular principles. Thus students who desire to excel academically ought to consistently attend classes; instructors ought to also courage school attendance. Constant absenteeism and truancy usually are prerequisites to premature exit from school and negatively affect students, the grown ups they eventually become and surrounding society. The National Center for School Engagement in 2007 stated that truants exhibit lower scores, get barred out of school, leave school or they have lower high school graduation rates than counterparts exhibiting lower instances of unjustifiable absenteeism. It was also established that particular schools expel student low-achievers and truants with a view to push up mean academic performance as reflected by grade promotion, grades and graduation frequencies. Chronic truancy student offenders exhibit some mannerisms that interrupt classes thus making teachers’ instruction work difficult and hampering students’ learning experiences. Administrators are thus obligated to spend more time attending to disciplinary concerns at the expense of normal school activities. Findings of the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) 2001 research link truancy to additional problems like drug and substance misuse, mob activity, vandalism, delinquency, weighty criminal activity( burglary and automobile theft) and quitting school. Other researchers have determined that truancy per se can result in, (or strengthen present) risk activities, provided that out-of-school students are not supervised and are alienated from positive peers’ and adults’ influence. Male criminal tendencies’ studies have linked truancy with later-year violent offences. In addition, grown ups who exhibited truancy in juvenile years have increases likelihood of having poor social dexterity, hold low paying occupations, are extra probable to depend on Welfare Support and are increasingly likely to be imprisoned. Gangs of young individuals roaming the streets at school times appear menacing. Increased truancy in Tacoma Washington was linked to juvenile-committed crimes like vandalism and burglary. School districts having elevated truancy instances exhibit rock bottom educational performance rates. Such connection usually is established by way of truancy regulations which consider automatic course failure where scholars are often absent. Thus scholars who inconsistently attend school are less likely to clear from high school. The National Center for Education Statistics estimates that from 1992 to 2002, 3 million juveniles (16-21 years) have not completed or have not been admitted to high school. Such figures represent close to eleven percent of United States juveniles. In the group, disproportionate minority scholars’ numbers exist. For instance, thirty percent Hispanics don’t successfully go through school. The figures go up to forty four percent if overseas-born students are included. High school failure affects individual students as well as the society. Affected scholars are unable to join college, are more prone to getting low-salaried occupations and experience political indifference. In return, such individuals represent losses in levy income, may have health complications, and are a burden on communal services. The US Department of Labor estimates that 6. 7% of adult persons without high school qualifications are probable to be without a job. On the other hand, as concerns those having an undergraduate degree, a mere 1. 8 percent have unemployment probabilities. Truancy affects not only the youth offenders but also the grown ups they ultimately become. Grown ups who exhibited youth chronic truancy at school are faced with higher risks of experiencing many problems such as poor mental and physical health, welfare and poverty, incarceration and bringing up children who also depict problem mannerisms. A 1996 to 1997 research indicates that school administrators regarded absenteeism, tardiness, physical disagreements, and skipping classes as the leading three grave discipline matters in schools. Past studies have revealed that school attendance rates start dwindling at middle school. a mere 55. 1 percent of Latino learners, 87. 5 percent of Korean American scholars, 42. 6 percent of African American learners, 90 percent of Japanese American scholars , 94. 1 percent of Chinese American scholars and 52. 1 percent of Native American learners are present in 91 to 100 percent of their entire classes. A 1995 study in Los Angeles Unified School District concluded that five percent of scholars unjustifiably absent themselves from school per day. A similar Denver survey established that twenty percent of students in community schools satisfied the requirements to be regarded as truant in 2006. By high school, numbers progressively drop thus upholding inter-group gaps. A mere 37. 8 percent of Filipino scholars, 21. 5 percent of native American scholars, 24 percent of Latino scholars, 59. 8 percent of Korean American scholars, 68. 43 percent of Chinese American scholars and 18. 6 percent of African American scholars attend ninety one to one hundred percent of classes. A Minneapolis study established that learners who attended 95% of class time had double chances of excelling in State language-arts examinations as compared to counterparts who attended for 85% class time. After review of attendance guidelines, it was established that Minnesota students having one percent attendance increase had I% State mathematics and reading examinations increases. It was also determined that mathematics grades are principally sensitive and responsive to attendance variations. In Rochester and Buffalo, research concluded that learners having between eighty five and one hundred percent State English Examinations’ scores had been present in school for a mean of ninety three percent of stipulated time. Students scoring below fifty four percent had attended for eighty five percent of school time. San Franciscan reports illustrate conspicuous disparities between achievement and attendance which recently prompted the city’s school monitor to instruct local authorities to maintain consistent school attendance rates. A Connecticut Naugatuck High School study revealed that ninety percent of frequent student absentees failed in not less than one course in First Quarter scores. Timely school attendance is crucial in maintaining the knowledge environment as well as satisfying personal learning requirements. Students increase the probabilities of achieving sustainability in learning and nurturing of desirable habits cherished by potential post-school employers by observing punctuality and consistent school turnout. Poor school turnout can result in poor examination results, pre-mature school exit and poor life opportunities for students. Research findings have established that students, who consistently attend school thus obtaining higher scores, enjoy school-life more and are happier after exiting school. Proper school attendance also results in better employment prospects and consequently reduced welfare reliance. By consistently attending classes, students area able to obtain the knowledge, attitudes plus skills which are essential for efficient school and later-life learning. Poor turn out is linked to learner alienation plus disengagement, factors which could result in school drop out. The consequences arising from school non-attendance are grave for students. Research has established that students who develop the habits of being punctual and ever-present at school have the inherent conviction that school life will aid them attain future objectives. Such students also gain skills in budgeting their time so as to maintain punctuality, since they know in their subconscious, that their presence in class maximizes learning experiences. Such students grow to become a mutual society of learners who attain educational excellence and develop essential skills necessary to transform them into imaginative thinkers, enduring learners and accountable community associates in a dynamic diverse world. When large numbers of students are consistently absent, co-operative efforts between teacher and students to develop skill are thwarted. Other than failing academically, frequent student class absentees have higher probabilities of finding themselves on the wrong side of the law and occasion community problems. An Arizona Rodel Community Scholars 2008 research involving tracking scholars from nursery school to high school established that exit patterns and poor attendance are related. Obvious behavioral disparities, between students who pursue education up to graduation and drop outs, were detected. Drop outs had absented themselves by a mean of one hundred and twenty four days by the time they were in grade eight. Truancy negatively affects school and communities economically in the long run. State assistance is usually disbursed to districts and schools on the basis of mean daily turn out. This is especially true for schools that depend on financial assistance on the basis of Full Time Equivalent principles. Monetary losses owing to high absenteeism rates are extreme. For instance, absenteeism results in $19 loss for each student for every day in Unified School District of Oakland. The figures translate to $4 million each year. Truancy therefore has the potential to influence the outcome of a school. Numerous States’ school expenditure projections are developed based on mean daily turn outs per school. Such expenditure projections are harmed owing to student absenteeism. Incase numerous students consistently absent themselves; schools are left with little money to cater for necessary classroom requirements. Utilization of turnout as a pointer to the effectiveness of a school influences the disbursement of national wealth to districts and schools. Since truancy is usually a prerequisite for quitting school, public coffers are ultimately affected by the vice. Research has determined that a person who drops out of high school expends a life-span mean of $200,000 of public finances more than similar expenditure for conventional high school students. Such additional public expenditure results from lost levy income, criminal integrity, medical care and expenditures on community services and imprisonment. In most schools, students are accountable for make-up activities related to excusable absenteeism. An appropriate time, prior to or following conventional school time, is sought to by students handle the work assisted by teachers. Incase students are unavailable during this time, they have to set other occasions to pick assignments and submit the same to teachers. This is quite inconveniencing for students and could lead to low productivity and thus lower grades. Schools exhibiting high truancy rates experience reduced student learning and also reduced instructional instances. When absent, students miss learning experiences and teachers have to attempt top offer remediation upon resurfacing of the students. This results in extra reduction of instructional occasions by fellow students. Absenteeism consequences pour out of the school into the community. Low educational achievement coupled with progressive reduction of tuition time among chronic student absentees is a sure recipe for imminent school quitting. Drop outs adopt delinquent and criminal lifestyles affecting society tremendously. A 1999 Lee and Lotz research has revealed that delinquency is more among poor performing students with erratic attendances who then quit school. Another 1993 study states that truancy precipitates delinquency and grown up crime later as is depicted in Georgia where 82% of prisoners are drop outs from high school. Some schools require that students be present at school for a minimum of ninety percent of school sessions each term. School management boards could reject progression to subsequent grades to students who violate these stipulations. some existing regulations state that class absenteeism, with the exception of conventional instances, is factored in determining percent attendance as well as promotion eligibility. Some tougher penalties have been determined elsewhere. For instance, Connecticut’s authorities have enacted regulation that calls for imposition of fines amounting to $25 per day, to the offending student, the parents or both, for chronic truancy.

Internet Lingo Essay

Internet lingo or Internet slang (also known as ‘netspeak’) refers to a set of words, phrases, and acronyms used primarily in casual communication over the Internet. Its elements were created and made popular by Internet users themselves. Characteristic of netspeak are acronyms for phrases, like â€Å"LOL† (laughing out loud), â€Å"ROFL† (rolling on the floor laughing), and â€Å"OMG† (oh my god. Netspeak has expanded to include full words as well—words like â€Å"blog†, â€Å"flame†, â€Å"online†,   and â€Å"haxor† are only a few of the many words that the Internet has given birth to. A special set of Internet lingo, called â€Å"emoticons†, or â€Å"emotion icons†, also exists. These are the familiar â€Å"smileys† like â€Å":)† or â€Å"=)†, wherein the colon or the equals sign stand for the eyes, and the parenthesis symbol the mouth. The exact date of the first usage of Internet slang is somewhat difficult to determine, but its beginnings can be traced back to the 1980s, during the days of Usenet (Anderson 1996). They were perhaps meant to ease the load on users to type so much so they could say more in a smaller amount of time and effort, and was also perhaps a means to signify their statuses as Internet users. From there, it spread all across to what the Internet is today—from message boards, to chatrooms, to instant messaging—it has become a ubiquitous language in the World Wide Web, understood by any Internet user. One of the original purposes of Internet lingo (which it still serves well even today) it to save the user a few keystrokes. The reason why a large part of Netspeak consists of cryptic acronyms is exactly this. For instance, an Internet user in the middle of a chat, needs to leave abruptly, but is not disrespectful as to leave his friends without so much as saying a word. He would like to say that he will talk to them some other time, but â€Å"talk to you later† is such a long phrase that may take even longer to type if said user is not very good at typing. Instead, he will type â€Å"ttyl†, which stands for the original message in his mind, and saves himself a few more seconds. His friends, able to decipher his message, acknowledge, perhaps with a â€Å"k† (â€Å"okay†) or â€Å"cu† (â€Å"see you†). Most of Netspeak functions this way, and there are a great many acronyms which stand for equally numerous messages, all serving to save the user some time and effort.   Emoticons were invented to enable Net users to express emotions and feelings over the Internet. Since the users most likely do not see each other while communicating online, emoticons are important when words are no longer enough to express a feeling. The regular smiling face, â€Å":)†, is the most popular, and usually means that the other person is pleased or feels happy. It is difficult to list all of the existing emoticons as there are simply too many, at least one for almost every expression, and even for non-expressions. They, too, can also serve to save some time and a few keystrokes. For example, instead of saying â€Å"I am sad,† the user can simply use â€Å":(â€Å". Or, he can use them at the end of a sentence to more effectively convey what he feels: â€Å"I am mad at you! >:(â€Å" However, the latter purpose seems to have weakened nowadays—if someone sees the sentence in the previous example, he would not believe that the person is actually angry or displeased; rather, he would think that the person at the other end is using the smiley to achieve a comical effect. Like in any group or subculture, a means to indicate that one understands or one belongs is necessary in order for one to be truly part of that group. This is another purpose of Internet slang: it lets people identify themselves as part of the Internet culture. Like a secret handshake, knowledge of this language is more or less required for one to be a true â€Å"Netizen†Ã¢â‚¬â€an Internet denizen. In fact, one can observe that some groups in the Internet will even go as far as mocking those who has little knowledge about the words or phrases, or if he misuses them. In instances like these, the misinformed user will be referred to as a â€Å"n00b†, a derogatory term derived from the word â€Å"newbie†, which means a newcomer (Wikipedia 2007). With the rising availability, affordability, and popularity of computers and Internet access, Netspeak has found itself a wider user base than ever before. Indeed, this language has become so popular that it has begun to creep into people’s offline lives—popular acronyms like â€Å"LOL† and â€Å"WTF† (both of which can be typed in lowercase, as well as most other Internet acronyms), as well as many of the words can be found in mobile text messages, in television and movies, and even in the spoken language. However, teachers and other academic personnel and proponents are not too keen on this new language. Many people seem to regard this spread of Netspeak as nothing but harmful and degrading to intelligence, especially those of students. Jodi Schenck (Arditti  ¶;3), a high school teacher at the Rothberg Comprehensive High School in Israeli, recounts her students using Netspeak in academic writing: using the symbol â€Å"4† instead of â€Å"for†, using the letter â€Å"u† instead of spelling out â€Å"you†, and acronyms like â€Å"LOL†. It is also difficult, according to Schenck, to prevent the students from doing this (Arditti  ¶;3). To many teachers, like Schenck, Netspeak is corrupting the English language and is detrimental to a student’s intelligence. The problem is that it is so popular, and sometimes people might not be aware of the fact that they are already using them outside of the Internet, or that they are not acceptable in writing. Internet slang, much like regular slang, are only meant for use during casual conversations (or in the case of Netspeak, chatrooms and informal emails and messages). However, some people will disagree. As it resembles a new language on its own, linguists will give it due treatment, and defend it. Professor David Crystal, a linguist, in fact thinks that it is not a corruption but an enhancement to the English language (NPR 2007). He believes that it adds more variety and a wider choice for speakers and non-speakers alike of English by extending the range, expressiveness, and richness of the language. This is yet another purpose of Internet lingo. It may be necessary, however, to limit its use to casual conversations only. Students should still be required to differentiate between formal and informal speech, and when either should be used. Since Netspeak is considered a form of informal speech, it should stay away from formal and academic papers. The adoption of phrases and terms used in the Internet as a form of language is a fairly recent move. Due to its many purposes—as a time-saver, as a way to express feelings and emotions where it was otherwise impossible, as a symbol of belonging, and as an enrichment to the language—Internet slang, Netspeak, or Internet lingo deserves its place in the English language. It serves its purposes well, and are actually quite useful to know, especially now when almost everyone is using the Internet and this form of speech. It may still be confusing to some people, and may be misused at some places, but through proper education, the ubiquity of Internet slang should not pose a threat to corrupt the English language. Works Cited: Anderson, Andrew. â€Å"Usenet History.† The Network Administrator’s Guide.1996. 27 June 2007. . Arditti, Avi. â€Å"When Netspeak Enters Formal Writing, Teachers are Anything but LOL.†   NewsVOA.com. 2007. 25 June 2007.   . Ulaby, Neda. â€Å"OMG: IM Slang is Invading Everyday English.† National Public Radio. 2006. 25 June 2007. Wikipedia. â€Å"List of Internet Slang Phrases.† 2007. 27 June 2007. .

Asian American Observer Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Asian American Observer - Essay Example After reading the Asian America Observer (2012), a reader will get the impression that gender inequality is a pressing issue in Asian American culture. The newspaper features many articles about women and gender issues and this shows that they are most prevalent in the Asian American community. Apparently, women have it tough in acquiring descent job opportunities because of gender privileges. These privileges offer men more opportunities than it tends to for women. Asian American Observer has provided a good understanding of the social issues in Asian American culture as well as the current events that affect Asian Americans. The observer has included several publications that show the community has more social issues relating to gender and women than any other culture. This is seen as a good effort in creating awareness about this community as individuals will understand the culture better therefore make great contributions in bringing about change (Asian America Observer, 2012). A sense of racial solidarity has been noted in the Asian culture since they have a family orientation in the Asian American community. This matter however does not hide the fact that social issues regarding gender and women are prevalent in Asian American culture. ... Men are also more likely to get well paying jobs in high civil positions. There is a stereotype in the Asian American culture where men are believed to be more productive than women. Men will therefore receive more challenging responsibilities compared to women in the work environment. The observer has shown how gender privileges put women at a huge disadvantage as they are left to compete for the degrading and poor paying jobs (Asian America Observer, 2012). They tend to suffer as they are forced to labour under poor conditions. It has also been noticed that men are more likely to benefit from programmes developed for employees in the work environment compared to women. This shows there is limited access of women to training as well as preparation for other opportunities in the place of work. The event had an aim of raising Asian American cultural sensitivity to ensure women are not sidelined at work and should benefit from opportunities that arise in the work place as much as men d o. It is believed that gender equality will offer opportunities to both men and women therefore make better contribution towards team effort. The current event aimed at moving towards the development of Asian America as a community. It stated clear goals and objectives that would contribute in empowering members of the community, especially women. It had been noted that Asian Americans from Philippines, China, Korea and Japan used to work in farm plantations as most of them lacked formal education. The event had an aim of bringing together all Asian Americans so that they can educate individuals who are in the community as well as outside to make Asian Americans realize the real meaning of their culture. This would help

Inflation, Disinflation and Deflation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Inflation, Disinflation and Deflation - Essay Example It is usually seen when the prices of products within the economy deep from their current levels to much lower levels over time. Disinflation occurs within the economy only for a short time, and it takes place especially when an economy is undergoing a recession. Deflation is the decrease which takes place in the cost of products, when the rate of inflation goes below zero percent. Its greatest effect is that, over time, it increases the value of the currency being used within the economy. This ensures that one is able to buy more products with the same amount of money which they had when inflation was taking place. These three aspects of the economy are extremely powerful in determining how it is working, whether it is doing well or not. Furthermore, the central banks use the measurements of these aspects in order to determine what their fiscal policies are going to be. Inflation can be termed as the gradual rise, over a certain period, of the cost of products in a financial system (Hartwig 23). In addition, when inflation takes place, it is always found that the value of the currency used in a particular economy also decreases. This is because the money available in the economy is able to purchase a limited number of products when compared to the previous period. All the countries in the world whose economies are connected to money have a way of finding out the inflation rate of their currency. Every year, the percentage of inflation is calculated and the result is often used in the planning of the budget for the forthcoming year. Inflation has a massive effect on how the economy works, and this effect is sometimes positive, or negative, depending on the situation. One of the negative effects of inflation is that it becomes extremely risky to hold onto large sums of the currency, which is undergoing inflation, because one does not

Senior Project - Team Contract Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Senior Project - Team Contract - Essay Example The deadline for turning in the work should be set well before the final deadline so that any changes that need to be made can be accomplished. The best case scenario would be to see that all components are turned in at least two days before the deadline so that the work can be assessed for its value by all of the members of the team. By creating this deadline, the group can ensure that there is enough time for all aspects of the project to be perfected after evaluations by each member. If a member does not turn in their work by the team deadline it will give the team time to compensate for this problem. Lack of participation will be incorporated into the notes that will be made on the overall project and reported according to the guidelines that are provided for the project. Team leadership will be selected according to a group discussion. However, the best teams are not divided by leadership, but by responsibilities. Therefore, the team leader will have the responsibility of making sure that all aspects of the project are in on time, but will not be given the powers to rule over issues that occur during the project nor be given the power to veto aspects of the project. The goal will be to work as a team in such a way as to encourage the strengths of each team member and compensate for any weakness. The team leader will organize the details of the project, but will not have the power to control the project. This should be a collaborative effort, rather than ruled by a dictator. Section III In order to deal with team conflict, it will be necessary to put into place a way to negate any disagreements on how the team should progress towards its goals. Conflicts can occur due to a number of different problems that might arise during the project. Seeing the project through different ideas will be the first potential problem. A team vote on how to focus the project from the beginning will help to negate this potential problem. Making sure that all members are on boar d and agree on how the project should proceed will be the best way to prevent problems from the beginning. A second problem that might arise involves the issues of strengths and weaknesses. Before tasks are given to each of the members, it is important that each member identifies which parts of the project will give them the best opportunity to excel and which aspects are representatives of weaknesses. Creating a chart that identifies all tasks and allowing members to identify their strengths and weaknesses will assist in giving responsibilities and in balancing out where weaknesses are shown. The team agrees to handle all conflicts through mature and reasonable methods of communications. The team agrees that it will not argue, but discuss any disagreements on the project and that it will be necessary to sometimes deal with conflicts that arise. Through a recognition that the potential for a disagreement exists, it is clear that the project members are willing to work through any pr oblems that might come to light. As disagreements come to light, the differing sides of the problem will be discussed through breaking down each element of the disagreement, assessing which portions are similar and which elements require a decision or

Journal Analysis Australian Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Journal Analysis Australian Law - Essay Example ad issued public statements that were â€Å"misleading the customers and the public.† It can be recalled that SF, previously considered as one of the foremost financial planners of the nation, began to crumble when it defaulted payments of debts, that ran by tens of million, to the CB. Underpinning this financial collapse was the company’s failure to issue margin calls to hundreds of its clients whose securities have fallen below margin minimum requirements after the sharemarket plunged. The company was forced to place itself under voluntary administration after CB gave it just one day to pay its debts (O’Shaughnessy 2009). As indicated above, the SF case seems to have catalyzed allegations of deception and misrepresentation being bandied back and forth from one side to another. Initially, SF had accused CB of misleading its clients to think that the former has the sole responsibility to advise them on margin loans. The banking institution, on the other hand, now accuses SF to be guilty of the same thing with regards to statements it has issued to the public. The doctrine of misleading conduct under the Australian corporate law is embodied in different Commonwealth Acts. In the Trade Practices Act of 1974, for example, s 52 thereof specifically prohibits corporations engage in trade and commerce from conduct precisely described therein as â€Å"misleading or deceptive or is likely to mislead or deceive. A follow-up provision under the same law is s 53 which enumerates ten misleading acts. The enumerated conduct are, among others, â€Å"falsely represent that services are of a particular standard, quality, value or grade† and â€Å"make a false or misleading representation concerning the existence, exclusion or effect of any condition, warranty, guarantee or, right or remedy† (s 53, Trade Practices Act 1974). On the other hand, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission Act 2001 (ASIC) likewise have a corresponding provision touching on the doctrine of

Plea Bargaining Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 6250 words

Plea Bargaining - Research Paper Example 622 (2002), (Certiorari to the United States Court of Appeals for the ninth circuit No. 01-595. Argued April 24, 2002-Decided June 24, 2002) the court initiated the focus on the realities of the plea process but the endeavor materialized with a half hearted outcome. It was in the year 2010, regarding a case between Padilla v. Kentucky - 08-651 (2010) the court engineered in the substantive calculus of the notion of plea bargaining along with the attendants sentencing decisions, running of the lawyers along with the associated civil consequences. Padilla was a petitioner, a lawful permanent resident of the United States for 40 years faced deportation after pleading guilty to drug distribution charges in Kentucky. Padilla held that before a guilty plea, the criminal defense counsel must be advising the clients not only about the direct consequences of the plea but also but also about one of its chief collateral civil consequences, deportation. The case of Padilla can be said to be a la ndmark construal of the constitution’s Sixth Amendment’s right to effective counsel followed by the court to move beyond its fixation upon various cases that go to the jury trials (Bibas, 2011, p.1117). The United States (U.S.) of America from a very long time has been rigidly associated with the emblem of democracy and freedom with proper and quick functioning of the court system being one of the major parameters. Within the judicial system of the United States, the notion of plea bargaining is highly common with approximately 90% of the criminal cases being settled by plea bargaining mechanism rather than by the process of a jury trials. The procedure of plea bargaining is subjected to the court and several states and jurisdictions fall under domain of different rules (Plea Bargaining, 2012). The American Samoa is one of the territories of United States of America and the central theme of the paper will be dealing with the practice of plea bargaining

Democratisation and Reforms in Singapore and Malaysia Research Paper

Democratisation and Reforms in Singapore and Malaysia - Research Paper Example This paper therefore is to scrutinise and study the process of democratisation and reform in Singapore and Malaysia. Singapore and Malaysia have an aspect of striking similarity which has shaped their process of democratisation. Both countries enjoy strong authoritarian stability because of the strong state apparatuses they possess. Some strong states such as Taiwan and South Korea had emerged before Malaysia and Singapore became authoritarian in the 1960s and would have been instrumental in helping stabilise national politics in Singapore and Malaysia to democratise. Slater observes that the drawback in this state of affair above is that the same state strength that props up stable transitions to democracy is the very force that enables authoritarian rulers and regimes to forestall democratisation and reforms. This is to mean that the chief reason for Singapore and Malaysia’s democratisation is the main reason democratisation and reforms may not transpire thereto. A case whic h underscores the need for Malaysia’s democratisation and reforms is epitomised by the move by the Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Najib Razak of singlehandedly picking a committee to review the country’s electoral system and the Internal Security Act. While the Prime Minister dishonestly explained such a move as a needful exercise in arresting lawlessness, the entire exercise was a response to the Arab Spring (Slater, 30). The need for Singapore and Malaysia to democratize and reform The need for Singapore and Malaysia to undergo democratisation and reforms is premised on the economic gains and developments that are taking place therein. In the case of Singapore, there has been the registration of rapid and gradual economic growth. For this cause, Singapore has come to be the second highest income earner in Asia, immediately after Japan. As a matter of fact, Singapore is being touted by scholars such as Beng-Haut as the largest non-democracy economy in world history . Because of this status, it is expected that Singapore should be setting the standard for democracy and reforms in the Southeast Asia. Nevertheless, much to the chagrin of many, this is not the case, yet the failure to democratise and reform will stunt economic accruals therein (Beng-Haut, 23). The need for Singapore to democratise is also underscored by the fact that Singapore’s political life and commitment to constitutionalism is doing very badly. According to Beng-Haut, with the exception of the Islamic Brunei sultanate, Singapore remains the only ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) member which is excluded from the list of countries that are democratising. The exclusion of Singapore from the ASEAN countries that are democratizing is serious, given that other pseudo-democracies such as Indonesia where institutions (such as the electoral commission) are still too weak to withstand the undue influence of the executive, were included in the list (Beng-Haut, 23). Conversely, Singapore has no recourse to democratise and reform, given that it still has strengths that can facilitate democratisation. Singapore parallels other authoritarian regimes by manifesting commitment to human rights and collective goals. Factors That Impede Democratization and Reforms in Singapore and Malaysia Setbacks that inhibit Singapore’s path to democratisation and reforms are: (a) tension between the presence and influence of

Evaluate what Technological Needs & Barriers do International Students Research Paper

Evaluate what Technological Needs & Barriers do International Students face in accessing the Library Services at Bournemouth Uni - Research Paper Example Assumptions by quantitative purist are in consistent with positivist philosophy. This implies that, social observations should be considered as entities in the same manner physical phenomena are treated by physical scientists. In addition to that, quantitative purists argue that, entities subjected to observation are separate from the observer. Moreover, they write that, inquiries in social sciences need to be objective. Therefore, context-free and time generalizations are necessary and social scientific results real causes should be in a position to be determined validly and reliably (Foley 2010, p.18). On the contrary, qualitative purists are not in support of positivism. Qualitative purists are also referred to as interpretivists and constructivists. This group is in support of idealism, humanism, constructivism, relativism, postmodernism and hermeneutics superiority. Unlike quantitative purists, they contend that, content-free and time generalizations are neither possible nor rel iable. In addition to that, they put across that, any research has a bound value. As a result, it is quite difficult to fully differentiate effects and causes, and the flow of logic follows a particular pattern. That is, from specific to general. For example, through the utilization of the collected data, explanations can be inductively generated. Furthermore, knower cannot be alienated from known. This is because knower being subjective acts as a basis of reality (Johnson and Onwuegbuzie 2004, p.14). There are differences between inductive and deductive logic. In deductive logic, a researcher utilizes large volumes of information and comes up with conclusions. On the other hand, inductive logic generalizes information using a single information piece. Rationale for the Research Methodology Utilization of mixed methods helps in bridging the division that exists between qualitative and quantitative research. The research focusing on an aspect that is specific, it is therefore signifi cant to utilize mixed method. Qualitative research will emphasize on interpretive knowledge. The knowledge is remarkably essential in the public relations and marketing communications field. For purposes of answering survey questions and obtaining of data that is deductive, quantitative method will be of great value (Daymon & Holloway 2002). In addition to that, data collection and analysis in qualitative responses that are embedded can aid in explaining and augmenting survey responses that are contradictory or complex. Moreover, qualitative methods are essential in removing bias. As a matter of fact, they help the researcher in testing or empirically justifying their affirmed hypothesis. Despite the benefits, the mixed method has its own limitations and challenges. For instance, the conversion of qualitative data into quantitative form results to loss of data flexibility and depth. Similarly, data that is quantified is one-dimensional and fixed. This means that, they have a limited response that represents a conceptual group that is determined before data is collected from the field. Research Methodology The research design proposed is that of mixed method. It will be accomplished in twofold phases. The first phase comprises of a process that is qualitative for purposes of data analysis and collection. The second phase will comprise a quantitative process. The process will aid in obtaining data that is

To determine the concentration of limewater Essay Example for Free

To determine the concentration of limewater Essay The aim of my experiment is to find the concentration of limewater solution provided. To do this I am provided with the following chemicals. Limewater: 250cm (1g dm ) Hydrochloric acid at concentration of 2 mol dm As you can see the hydrochloric acid is too concentrated for titration (i.e. one drop could change the colour of the solution.) therefore this acid will need to be diluted. Background knowledge: Limewater can be made by dissolved slacked lime in water to get a solution of calcium hydroxide (Ca (OH) 2 ) Quicklime + water slaked lime CaO (s) + H2O (l) CaCl2 (aq) + 2H2O (l) In this reaction it shows the calcium oxide reacts with water to produce calcium hydroxide. After adding more water to calcium hydroxide, it produces the saturated aqueous solution known as limewater. My experiment will be based on this neutralisation reaction between the limewater and hydrochloric acid. Ca(OH) 2(aq) + HCl (aq) CaCl2 (aq) + 2H2O (l) ï ¼Ë†back ground knowledge of limewater provided by AS chemistry 1 page†¦Ã¯ ¼â€° Diluting hydrochloric acid: My first task for this experiment is to dilute the hydrochloric acid. To do this I first needed to work out how many moles I wanted for hydrochloric acid. For this part of my calculation I choose to use text book Calculations for chemistry to help me. Page†¦.. Ca(OH) 2(aq) + HCl (aq) CaCl2 (aq) + 2H2O (l) 1gdm of Ca(OH) 2 Number of moles of limewater Mr of lime water= 40.1 + (16 x 2) + (1 x 2) = 74.1 Mass of lime water=1g Moles of lime water =mass(g)/Mr So 1/74.1=0.13 mol dm-3 Molarities of limewater solution: Morality = no. moles of limewater / volume = 0.013 / 1 = 0.013 mol dm So there is 0.013 mole of Ca(OH) 2 per every 1000cm3 of solution. Therefore 25cm should contain 3.2510-4 moles of Ca(OH) 2. 0.013/40=3.2510-4 mole Ratio of limewater: Hydrochloric acid = 1: 2 = 3.25 x 10 : 6.5 x 10 The hydrochloric acid is 2M which is 2 moles HCl in 1dm of solution. I need 6.5 x 10 moles of acid. Now I need to work out the volume of hydrochloric acid like this: Volume = no. moles x 1000 / concentration = 6.5 x 10 x 1000 / 2 = 0.325cm I want a 25cm titre that contains 6.5 x 10 mol dm Now I need to work out the concentration of hydrochloric acid. Concentration = no. moles x 1000 / volume = 6.5 x 10 x 1000 / 25 = 0.026 mol dm I now know that I want 0.026-mol dm of hydrochloric acid for the reaction to work. But I have been supplied with 2.00-mol solution. I want 250cm of dilute hydrochloric acid at 0.026-mol dm. The total no. moles in 250cm is unknown. 250 cm of the solution should be enough to repeat the experiment. Total number of moles of HCL: No. moles = concentration x volume / 1000 This equation is rearranged to make: Volume = no. moles x 1000 / concentration So 1000cm contains 0.026 moles therefore 250cm contains 0.0065 moles Volume of hydrochloric acid I need : Volume = no. moles x 1000 / concentration = 0.0065 x 1000 / 2 =3.25cm Apparatus Pipette25ml Burette50ml Conical flask 250cm Volumetric flask 250cm Graduated pipette Clamp + stand White paper Distilled water Squeezing pump Safety: Concentrated HCL must be handled with extreme caution due to its corrosive property. Goggle and lab coat must be worn all the way through the experiment. Rubber gloves must be worn when handling concentrated HCL. Hazard sheet must be filled before the experiment. Chemicals used for my titration: Chemical in burette: hydrochloric acid( 0.026mol dm ) Chemical in conical flask: lime water Indicator: methyl orange Method: Here is how I am going to carry out my experiment: Part 1: diluting acid. Add the 3.25cm of hydrochloric acid to the volumetric flask using the graduated pipette to get the exact amount of hydrochloric acid. Fill the same volumetric flask with distilled water until is reaches 250ml. This should now make my dilute hydrochloric acid with 0.0065 -mol dm. Now the hydrochloric acid is ready. Part 2: the titration. Wash burette with tap water, then distilled water and finally with hydrochloric acid. Wash the conical flask with tap water, then distilled water and finally with limewater Set up titration apparatus. Fill the burette with 50cm of the dilute hydrochloric acid making sure the bottom of the meniscus is reading at 50 on the burette. Using a funnel to put the dilute hydrochloric acid in the burette increases safety against spillage. Fill the conical flask with 25cm of limewater using the squeezing pump and pipette. Add three drops of methyl orange to the limewater and mix until it turns a light yellow depending on the concentration of the methyl orange. Place the conical flask containing limewater onto a white paper. Start to run the dilute hydrochloric acid steadily, starting of constantly when a you see a localised colour change, then start to add small drops, finally into drop by drop. shake the conical flask after every drop of HCL is added. This will make sure you will use the exact amount of hydrochloric acid when the colour changes. This improves accuracy and reliability. Repeat all the tests at least three times (Time dependent) so that an average can be obtained. Repeating the experiments several times will help to produce better and more accurate results, as any inaccuracies in one experiment should be compensated for by the other experiments. Note all the results in a table. One thing I have to decide is what indicator I want to use. The indicators methyl orange and phenolphthalein are pretty much one-three drops change and a clear change. The pink/colourless change for phenolphthalein is very definite, the yellow/pink change for methyl orange is clear too. Because these are clear it means I can tell when the reaction has finished easier than using other indicators. Limewater, which is calcium hydroxide, is a strong alkali, even though it is only sparing soluble. Its pH is 14. Hydrochloric acid is a strong acid. This means that even if you have quite a weak concentration it completely dissociates in water into H3O+ ions and OH- ions giving a pH of 1 (The pH is a measure of how many hydrogen ions are present in solution). For the reaction of Calcium hydroxide and Hydrochloric acid I would use methyl orange. It changes colour at around pH 4.4 and will change from yellow in acid to pink in alkali by the addition of limewater. To make this experiment as accurate as possible, the pipette, burette and volumetric flask only have a percentage error of + or – 0.1%. This is only a small error. Also making sure the hydrochloric acid is poured into the burette carefully using a funnel will prevent the hydrochloric acid pouring down the side of the burette.

Stateline Essay Example for Free

Stateline Essay Stateline Shipping Stateline Shipping and Transport In the â€Å"Stateline Shipping and Transport Company† case there is the manager Rachel Sundusky of the South –Atlantic office of the Stateline Shipping and Transport Company. She is trying to negotiate a new shipping contract with Polychem where Stateline picks up and transport waste product form its six plants to three waste disposal sites. In this problem we are trying to determine the shipping routes the will minimize Stateline total cost. In the first part I set up the problem in excel showing the shipping to the waste directly from the six plants to the three waste disposal site. In the result I had a Z value which is the minimum cost of $3090. 00 that Polychem will pay Stateline to transport their products. It also shows that Danville and Columbus is not safe to ship from because they cannot provide the supply that is needed. In the second part I develop a transshipment model in which each of the plants and disposal sites can be used as intermediate points. In the results it shows that I had a Z value which is the minimum cost of 2884. 0 that Polychem will

Knowledge Management Models And Frameworks Commerce Essay

Knowledge Management Models And Frameworks Commerce Essay The purpose of this paper is to critically review the various knowledge management models and frameworks. The review found that various knowledge management models and frameworks varies in perspectives ranging from the basic assumption of the articulation and transfer of tacit and explicit knowledge to the more complex and complicated assumption that knowledge is intellectual capital and it is mechanistic in perspective as well as an important asset that has to be managed efficiently for firms success. In this paper, knowledge management models are divided into three categories: knowledge category models, intellectual capital models, and socially constructed models. Besides, two knowledge management frameworks will be discussed in this paper. Finally, a KM model and framework is tentatively suggested to act as a useful guide for further research and organizational application. Introduction Nowadays, the world is fully experiencing an era, namely: knowledge age or the knowledge economy. In knowledge economy, knowledge is the crucial commodity due to the rapidly technological advancement. The technological innovations are eliminating the gap between competing companies and the collective knowledge of the employees become the key factor in producing innovative and competitive products or services (Sunassee and Sewry, 2002). Since previously managers did not encourage diffusion and sharing of knowledge among employees, changing in mindset is required for managing the knowledge effectively. The knowledge-driven activities in organizations and of the broader economic and social life lead to the management of knowledge become very important (Sunassee and Sewry, 2002). In general, this managerial activity has been known as Knowledge Management (KM). Previous research on knowledge management indicates the existence of various definitions of knowledge management. According to Nonaka and Takeuchi (1995), knowledge management is the capability of a company to create new knowledge, disseminate it throughout the organization and embody it in products, services, and systems. Duffy (1999) defines knowledge management as the identification, growth and effective application of an organisations critical knowledge. Knowledge management has been defined in another term, which is an organized and explicit process to generate, renew, and apply knowledge to maximize an organizations knowledge-related effectiveness and returns from its knowledge assets (Wiig, 1997). Alavi and Leidner (1999) define knowledge management as a systemic and organizationally specified process for acquiring, organizing, and communicating both tacit and explicit knowledge of employees so that other employees may make use of it to be more effective and productive in thei r work. Besides, ODell et al., (1998) define knowledge management as a conscious strategy of getting the right knowledge to the right people at the right time and helping people share and put information into action in ways that strive to improve organizational performance. For instance, Beckman (1999) define knowledge management as the formalization of and access to experience, knowledge and expertise that create new capabilities, enable superior performance, encourage innovation and enhance customer value. In general, KM is the process of creating, storing, distributing, and applying knowledge. By reviewing the significance of knowledge management and the complexity of its nature, it is timely to try to understand the latest theories underlying knowledge and knowledge management. Hence, this paper will critically study the latest models and frameworks of knowledge management and discuss on the assumptions and views of each model and framework. The aim of this paper is to examine the current understanding of the theory and practice of the emerging field of knowledge management by critically evaluating existing knowledge management models and frameworks. Therefore, employers or practitioners in organizations can understand their concepts and improved approaches can be developed and applied to organization and to those who need to work and implement knowledge management. This paper will begin by presenting the aims and objectives and followed with a short discussion on the types of knowledge. This is followed with the discussion on some of the existing knowledge management models and frameworks. Types of Knowledge In todays competitive business environment, only the knowledge of an organization can provide the basis for organizational renewal and sustainable competitive advantages. Organizational knowledge can be classified into two distinctive types of knowledge: explicit and tacit. According to Polanyi (1967), explicit knowledge is the knowledge which is easily to formalize, transfer, and store; documented, articulated into formal language, formally expressible and easily to communicate; tacit knowledge is pertaining to ideas, feelings, and individual experience, which is more complicated and difficult to share with each others. Explicit knowledge is the fact and can be codified and transmitted in a systematic and formal language. It is usually data, which is internal to an organization and can be easily collected. Tacit knowledge is the personal experiences, context-specific knowledge that is difficult to formalize record or articulate. It actually resides in the heads of the people, behavior and perception (Frid, 2000). Examples are intuitions, hunches, insights, beliefs and values. Both tacit and explicit knowledge are needed for an organization to achieve greater performance (Sanchez et. al. 1996). Knowledge Management Models and Frameworks Knowledge Category Models These types of model categorize knowledge into discrete elements. One of the most renowned KM models fits into this category, the Knowledge Spiral model by Nonaka and Takeuchi (1995). This model presents a high level conceptual representation of the knowledge dimensions, namely tacit and explicit knowledge. The model makes a number of assumptions, namely: 1. Tacit knowledge can be transferred through a process of socialization (everyday comradeship) to become the tacit knowledge of others top left quadrant 2. Tacit knowledge can become explicit knowledge through a process of externalization (formalizing a body of knowledge) top right quadrant 3. Explicit knowledge can be transferred into tacit knowledge in others through a process of internalization (translating theories into practice) bottom left quadrant 4. Explicit knowledge can be transferred to explicit knowledge in others through a process of combination (combining existing theories) -bottom right quadrant. One criticism of the model is that knowledge transfer in organizations is much more complicated and convoluted than this simple matrix suggests. The model also assumes an integration of tacit and explicit knowledge; often this is not the case. This model is shown in figure no. 1 below. A simple but more elaborate version of Nonakas model is shown in figure no. 2 (Hedlund and Nonaka, 1993). This model assumes there are four different levels of carriers, or agents, of knowledge in organizations, namely the individual, the group, the organization and the inter-organizational domain (customers, suppliers, competitors, etc.). The above model is helpful by relating the carriers to the types of knowledge; it remains problematic in that it assumes the carriers, like the knowledge, can be simply separated. Another example of a knowledge category model is that of Boisot, (1998), as shown in figure no. 3. Boisots model considers knowledge as codified or uncodified, diffused or undiffused, within an organization. Boisot uses the term codified to refer to knowledge that can be readily prepared for transmission purposes (e.g. financial data). The term uncodified refers to knowledge that cannot be easily prepared for transmission purposes (e.g. experience). The term diffused refers to knowledge that is readily shared while undiffused refers to knowledge that is not readily shared. The model presents the following characteristics: 1. Knowledge categorized as both codified and undiffused is referred to as propriety knowledge. In this case, knowledge is prepared for transmission but is deliberately restricted to a selectively small population, on a need to know basis (e.g. projected profits, share price issues) top left quadrant 2. Knowledge that is relatively uncodified and undiffused is referred to as personal knowledge (e.g. perceptions, insights, experiences) bottom left quadrant knowledge that is both codified and diffused is referred to as public knowledge (e.g. journals, books, libraries) top right quadrant Knowledge which is relatively diffused but also uncodified is labeled common sense bottom right quadrant. Boisot, (1998) considers such knowledge as being built up slowly by a process of socialization, harboring customs and intuition. There are few similarities between Nonakas model and Boisots model. For example, Nonakas categorization of explicit and tacit knowledge has a degree of correspondence with Boisots reference to codified and uncodified knowledge. The horizontal dimension relates to the spread or diffusion of knowledge across the organization in both models. However, Boisots model experiences the same limitations as Nonakas model in that codified and uncodified are but two discrete categories of knowledge. In addition, the idea of diffused knowledge is rather general and it is not clear if it includes incorporating knowledge within the organization, as well as disseminating it. Figure No. 3-Knowledge Category Model (Boisot, 1998) Intellectual Capital Models Management gurus such as Drucker (1993) and Brooking (1997) and practitioner icons such as Edvinsson, (1997) elucidated the notion of Intellectual Capital (IC). Knowledge and capital have been linked together for many years. Knowledge is being capitalized as a resource comparable to land or oil. However, we also need to focus on the intangible elements which knowledge contains such as employee skills, experiences, patients, copyrights, brands, licensing opportunities, research and development, innovative use of assets such as databases, etc. (Quintas et al, 1997). As these type of elements are not normally recorded on the traditional organizational balance sheet they are referred to Intellectual Assets; hence the term Intellectual Capital. KM is actively concerned with the strategic outlook and operational tactics required for managing human centered, intellectual assets (Brooking, 1997). According to Peters (1992), KM can affect intellectual capital or as recognizing or rediscovering assets that the organization are not using to full potential, ultimately employees. As these approaches imply that the key areas of KM are the management of IC it is worth reviewing a typical IC model. The model, shown below in figure no. 5, is the Intellectual Capital model from Skandia Insurance which is adopted from Chase (1997), and Roos and Roos (1997). According to Edvinsson and Malone, (1997) intellectual capital concsists the applied experience, organizational technology, customer relationships and professional skills that provide Skandia with a competitive advantage in the market. One problem that can be associated with this model is the adoption of a scientific approach to knowledge. This is evident through the classification of knowledge as a commodity linking it to organization capital. This view of intellectual capital ignores the political and social aspects of KM. KM can be decomposed into objective elements rather than being socio-political phenomena from the view of intellectual capital. This is similar to the Nonaka and Takeuchi, (1995) approach. As befits a new area of inquiry, much analytical work is focused on categorizing, mapping and measuring of knowledge types and processes. Although this is helpful, the epistemological basis of the field cannot be ignored (McAdam and McCreedy, 1999). Hence, we need to embrace socially constructed models of KM. Figure No. 4-Intellectual Capital Model of KM (Chase, 1997) Socially Constructed Models This group of models assumes a wide definition of knowledge viewing it as being intrinsically linked within the social and learning processes of the organization. KM is concerned with the construction, capture, interpretation, embodiment, dissemination and use of knowledge. These components are represented in Demerests (1997) Knowledge Management model. The model is developed from the original work of Clark and Staunton, (1989) and Nonaka and Takeuchi, (1995). It can be compared to that of Jordan and Jones, (1997) who speak of knowledge acquisition, problem solving, dissemination, ownership and storage and that of Kruizinga et al. (1997) who include knowledge policy, infrastructure and culture. Firstly, the model emphasizes the construction of knowledge within the organization. The model assumes that constructed knowledge is then embodied. Next the embodied knowledge is disseminated throughout the organization. Ultimately the knowledge is used to gain economic value with regard to organizational outputs. The black arrows in figure no. 5 show the primary flow direction while the white arrows show the more recursive flows. Figure No. 5 -Knowledge Management Model Demerest, (1997) Demerests model is attractive in that it does not assume any given definition of knowledge but rather invites a more holistic approach to knowledge construction. However, it does imply a simplistic procession approach to the flow of knowledge transfer, while in reality this may be extremely rapid and circulatory. To overcome this gap a slightly modified version of Demerests model has been developed, figure no. 6. Firstly the model emphasizes the construction of knowledge within an organization where either a scientific or social paradigm may be adopted. The scientific view of knowledge takes a knowledge is truth view (Morgan, 1986). This view considers that knowledge is a body of facts and rational laws thus promoting a non-personal view of knowledge, skills and tasks (Lave and Wenger, 1991). On the other hand the social view of knowledge is concerned with the social and learning processes within an organization. However, this approach assumes that knowledge construction is inequality, conflict, domination, subordination and manipulation influences as well as more traditional behavioral questions associated with efficiency and motivation (Alvesson and Wilmott, 1996). Thus social knowledge construction is a dynamic process of contextuality rather than the assimilation of a body of facts. In th e McAdam and McCreedys (1999) model depicted in figure no. 6, knowledge construction is not limited to scientific inputs through explicit programmes but includes a process of social interaction. The implications of this broader concept of knowledge construction must be reflected in the embodiment/dissemination of knowledge as part of the organizations KM approach. There is little point in widening the concept of knowledge construction only to limit the embodiment and dissemination techniques used or to force existing techniques onto new knowledge. Attempting to do so will lead to disappointing results, frustration and a negative view to KM caused by the mismatch between conception and application. Knowledge usage must also be reflected via the knowledge initiatives installed in the organization. Demerest (1997) describes use (as deployed in figure no. 6) as the production of commercial value for the customer. While increasing commercial value is a key objective of KM, it is not the only objective. Therefore knowledge use must be employed through the application of a complementary approach for emancipatory enhancements and organization outputs. This will permit the organization to be viewed and reformed from different perspectives that will facilitate continuous innovation, thus creating the ultimate business benefits for the organization as a whole. While the interconnecting vectors (black arrows) show the primary flow of activity, more recursive arrows are added to reflect the circulating nature of activity flows, thus depicting that KM is not a simple sequential process. Figure No. 6-Modified Version of Demerests Knowledge Management Model (McAdam and McCreedy, 1999) Knowledge Management Frameworks Stankosky and Baldanza (2001) developed a knowledge management framework which addresses enabling factors such as learning, culture, leadership, organization and technology (refer to figure no. 7). This framework presents that knowledge management covers a wide range of disciplines that include cognitive science, communication, individual and organizational behavior, psychology, finance, economics, human resource, management, strategic planning, system thinking, process reengineering, system engineering, computer technologies and software and library science. This framework consists four major foundations of an organization which is important for knowledge management are leadership, organization structure, technology infrastructure and learning. The role of leadership is practicing strategic planning and systems thinking approaches, making best use of resources, fostering a culture that encourages open dialogue and team learning, and for encouraging and rewarding risk taking, learning and knowledge sharing. Organization structure should facilitate personal interactions and support communities of practice to capture tacit and explicit knowledge within the organization. Besides, organizational structure should facilitate trust among people within the organization and encourage free exchange of knowledge. Technology infrastructure allows exchange of information without formal structures. Technology infrastructure should enhance the efficient and effective capture of both tacit and explicit knowledge. It should also support knowledge sharing in the entire organization. Lastly, learning is responsible for managing information in order to build enterprise wide knowledge and use that knowledge to organizational learning, change and performance improvement. Figure No. 7-Basic Disciplines Underlying Knowledge Management and its Enabling Factors (Stankosky and Baldanza , 2001) Karadesh et al. (2009) developed a knowledge management framework that emphasizes on developing phases such as knowledge infrastructure, knowledge combination, knowledge filtering, knowledge repository, knowledge sharing, knowledge application, and finally, knowledge performance across the KM process (refer to figure no. 8). The first element is knowledge infrastructure, which relies on building the proper culture for Knowledge Management System and establishes the awareness of the importance of KM among the individuals in the organization. The second element is knowledge combination that functions as a temporary repository of collected information from the infrastructure phase. The third element is knowledge evaluation which is used to assess the knowledge based on the value; accuracy and relevance after the knowledge have been combined from different sources (Sunassee and Sewry, 2002). Knowledge filtering is the fourth element that prepares knowledge to be stored in the next phase, after going through classification, categorization and organization. The fifth element is knowledge repository that functions as storage for the knowledge collected in the past stages. It also can be viewed as organization memory and retention of knowledge assets. Knowledge sharing is a core process in the process of the KM that transfers and shares knowledge among the individuals in the organization. Knowledge application is the seventh element that applies and represents information to knowledge seekers in appropriate matter. The last element is knowledge performance which is used to evaluate every KM system, process, performance, and impact of KM. It is performing according to the organization goals and objectives. Figure No. 8-Conceptual Framework for Knowledge Management Process (Karadesh et al., 2009) Conclusion The review of existing knowledge management models and frameworks has seen a wide spectrum of viewpoints. Knowledge management has been seen from the categorical view in which knowledge are categorized into discrete elements as seen in Boisot, Nonaka, and Nonaka and Hedlunds models to the more complicated and complex perspective of knowledge that is mechanistic and socially constructed orientation (McAdam and McCreedys, 1999). Moreover, these knowledge management models have made reference to: first, the process of managing the flow knowledge; second, categorization models are mechanistic; third, the intellectual capital model assumed that intellectual capital are crucial assets in organization and should be manage efficiently for firms success; fourth, Demerests model is intrinsically linked with the social and learning process within organizations; McAdam and McCreedys model is slightly modified from Demerests model, which seeks to address the limitations by explicitly showing the influence of both social and scientific paradigms of knowledge construction, and extends the use element to cover both business and employee benefits. Stankosky and Baldanzas knowledge management framework emphasized that leadership, organization structure, technology infrastructure and learning are important foundations for knowledge management in an organization; finally, Karadesh et al.s knowledge management framework represents with extensive and detailed processes and tends to provide guidelines for executing KM successfully, save time and efforts and to avoid inaccuracies. Even though knowledge management models and frameworks have evolved from time to time, basically the models and frameworks provide a way of transforming managerial activities and guiding managerial efforts in managing knowledge in the organizations. The KM model and framework that are suggested to act as a useful guide for further research and organizational application is McAdam and McCreedys model and Karadesh et al.s framework. McAdam and McCreedys model combines scientific and socially constructed knowledge, and also the uses/benefits of KM are viewed as both emancipatory and as business oriented. Karadesh et al.s framework provides a broadest analysis of KM process that can be used to foster the development of organization knowledge and enhance the organizational impact of individuals throughout the organizations. Therefore, it is suggested that this model and framework could act as a useful guide for further research and literature evaluation in the area of knowledge management.

The Odyssey in Oh Brother, Where Art Thou Essay -- Film Movie O Brothe

The Odyssey in Oh Brother, Where Art Thou The movie O Brother, Where Art Thou is a wonderful movie that was directed by the Coen brothers. The movie features a cast of talented actors, the movie has also won several awards. The book The Odyssey is a timeless classic and it was written by the mysterious bard Homer. The book tells the tale of our hero Odysseus as he attempts to make it home to his wife. There are many ways to relate the movie plot and characters, to Odysseus's journey in The Odyssey. Let's begin with the most basic and obvious similarities, the movie and the book both begin with the same line " Sing in me O muse." The Greek name Odysseus translates to the name Ulysses in Latin. Odysseus's goal in the book is to get home to Ithaca to be with his wife Penelope and save her from the suitors. Ulysses is trying to get to Ithica, New York, to stop his wife Penny from marrying a suitor. Odysseus begins his journey by spending seven years on the island of Calypso before being let go. Ulysses is in jail for several years before escaping. Shortly after escaping, Ulysses runs into a blind man that tells him several warnings about his up coming adventure. Odysseus gets various warnings from different gods, and from prophets through out his entire journey. In the Odyssey, they travel to the island of the lotus-eaters. Once the men eat the flower they become passive and don't want to leave the island. In O BROTHER, WHERE ART THOU the scene where Delmer and Pete are baptized is comparable to this. Delmer and Pete have no worry and are happy that they are sin free, even though the police are still looking to arrest them for escaping jail. In the Odyssey, Odysseus is warned not to touch the cattle of Helios, ... ...hat Ulysses's obsession with Daper Dan hair pomade represents Odysseus's pride. Instead of thanking the gods for the victory over Troy he took credit himself. In the movie, Ulysses finds himself arguing in a store over the hair product selection, this almost gets him in caught by the police. There are also some obscure references I tried to make with the governors race. I think that it is similar to the whirlpool and sea monster Odysseus must choose between, both are dangerous to have in your path, yet a path must be chosen. The movie didn't however focus on Telemachus's personal journey into manhood nor did it include anything about the way Athena helps Odysseus through out the book. I found it very interesting that the Coen brothers were able to include that many references to the book while still having it be relevant to the decade the movie takes place in.

Human Resource Management Essay -- Gender Roles, Human Rights Commissi

â€Å"Management and managing are characteristically gendered in many respects† (Broadbridge and Hearn 2008) In view of the above statement consider the roles of men and women at work. This essay will aim to understand whether or not management is characteristically gendered and if it is, then to ascertain what the cause for this segregation or demoralisation (if any) is. Certain factors such as biological, social and structural aspects will be analysed Since the beginning of mankind there has always been an inherent dispute regarding the disparity between men and women; women being the individuals who more often than not seem to be undermined in their abilities to be equal to their male counterparts. From an ethnographic perspective and looking at how the mass media portray the ironically termed ‘fairer’ sex it seems that women have always been viewed under a colder, more subordinate light. They seem to always be assigned the ‘passenger seat’ (Eagly and Carli, 2007 pg 18) arguing that women were (and maybe still are) treated as a passenger in the car as opposed to driving, directing and essentially controlling and leading the journey. The Suffragette movement led by Emmeline Pankhurst in 1918 led women to succeed in gaining the right to vote whereas males were only allowed to vote prior to the successful movement. To this day women are still paid on average less than men (Independent.co.uk). The main question is why? Why are women in the workplace vertically and horizontally segregated? Why are women paid less on average even when it is in direct comparison to the same job role? To come to a fair and reasonable conclusion it would be essential to look at the natural or biological differences between both genders f... .... All in all, to ameliorate and eliminate gender disparity and gender discrimination against women at work is a crucial duty for the government, employers as well as women themselves. Only if each member of the society, women and men, can benefit from its social mechanism can the public has a more functional and healthy environment to work in and live in. Work is critical to women’s survival and independence (MacKinnon, 1979). Therefore, all parties should jointly pay attention to the oppressed situation of working women and adopt relevant measures to establish an effective mechanism to eliminate gender discrimination so that women can truly enjoy equal rights to pursue life and happiness as their opposite sex. The following are some statistics to show how certain career paths are different for males and females.

Feminist Criticism Essay -- Feminism Female Essays

Feminist Criticism Contemporary feminist criticism focuses on various specified topics such as women’s biographical writings, lesbian and literature, and the role of film and the media in portraying feminine gender. It is no longer easily separated into categorical goals by nationalities or land boundaries. Instead, feminist criticism is now characterized according to whether the category of "woman" is the major focus, or whether gender identity is defined by sexual and other identities as well. These other differences include, but are not limited to, cultural identities as a woman, lesbian writings, sexual preference, and religious differences. Most feminist critics today stress the fact that while all women are female, they are much more than that. Each woman’s goals and problems make them who they are by creating a unique identity. The understanding of woman not as a single group has led modern feminist critics to advocate personal and autobiographical criticism. It has also fostered contemporary gender criticism. Gender critics explore different categories of gender and sexuality. Gender criticism does not only focus on women’s gender and sexuality, but also includes male gender issues. Gender criticism began solely as feminist criticism, and now the two are still overlapped. Elaine Tuttle Hansen has applied feminist criticism in her analysis of "The Miller’s Tale" in a segment of the chapter "Women as the Same" from the book Chaucer and the Fictions of Gender. While earlier critics have focused on the humorous side of what they consider an innocent prank, Hansen focuses on Alisoun’s escape from punishment. At the same time she recognizes that it was only by accident that Nicholas intervened to receive the punish... ...astly, I found reference to Alisoun being objectified as something only to look at in two separate, yet closely related examples. First, in lines 3247-3248 of her portrait, the Miller states that "She was ful more blisful on to see / Than is the newe pere-jonntte tree." Secondly, Absolon refers to Alisoun’s objectification by stating "to loke on hir him thoughte a merye lyf" (3344). Valued objects are often set away from "normal" areas to look upon for enjoyment purposes. And happiness is sometimes thought to be achieved through viewing a thing of beauty; this is how these men viewed Alisoun. In conclusion, it is clear to see through these examples how Chaucer used animal characteristics to objectify Alisoun. Furthermore, I feel that Hansen’s views on "The Miller’s Tale" were correct and justified. Overall, I feel that the views expressed by Hansen are enlightening.

“Perfection Wasted” by John Updike Essay

Legend Ends or Perfection Wasted? Each person brings a special quality and gift to life that creates an individualistic style to the world that we live in. The poem Perfection Wasted was written by John Updike in the year 1990; this poem accentuates the flair that can never be replaced when a loved one dies. One way to better understand a poem is to paraphrase it into your own words. Paraphrase of Perfection Wasted: One thing that is unfortunate about departing this life is the lost vivacity that a person works to expand since the day they were born. The closest relationships surrounding the person enjoy the up close and personal events in the stage of life. They are there through the good times and the bad while having utmost concern for you. The many special moments that were spent together, will never be relived again in the same capacity. Though they can try to be like you, they will never fully succeed due to individual quality you brought to life. â€Å"Imitators and descendan ts aren’t the same† The theme of this poem is death and what factors play into what is lost when a person dies. The setting of the poem is philosophical in thinking about qualities that someone special carries in retrospect to life. I found no similes in the poem. Perfection Wasted is a metaphorical in the idea that is parallel to the idea that life is a stage and we are the players. Updike uses a lot of abstract and theoretical imagery as well as minimal visual imagery. One example of visual imagery includes the descriptions of the stage and the description of the faces he sees in the audience. An example of kinetic imagery is the â€Å"laughter† which leads the audience members to cry. The imagery is vivid and serves the purpose of swaying the view of the reader into an emotional state. The poem contains a medium to high level of diction that contains little slang while using one contraction in the last line that is the word â€Å"aren’t†. The words are not overly elaborate and maintain a descriptive role in the poem; the level of diction did not reveal what region the n arrator originates. I chose to compare the poem Perfection Wasted to the recent passing of my legendary hero Dale Earnhardt. He was an amazing driver who lived his world on a stage in the public eye. I had the opportunity to meet Dale several times throughout the years and he did have that special sparkle when I met him in person. Others can drive a car, but no one can replace Dale or his style. His son continues to drive one of the Earnhardt cars, but as Updike says, â€Å"imitators and descendants aren’t the same†. I know I will not be. I enjoyed  reading Updike’s poem Perfection Wasted as well as his earlier work named â€Å"A&P†. He has a unique writing style that brings the reader to an emotional and empathetic state in relating to his characters. We can all relate to the situations that he puts his characters, along with their thoughts and actions. Death might bring the end to the magic of one lifetime, or the end of a legend. Regardless of the conclusion, perfection was not wasted. It was shared among the people whose lives were touched by that person’s gift.

Identify Risk, Threats, and Vulnerabilities

Some risks that I have identified are social engineering techniques due to the excessive trust given to messages coming from friends, contacts or followed people within the OSN(Online-Social Network) identity theft and information leaking furthermore, spam sending and malware distribution through Social Networks are increasing at an incredible pace. They are not the only threats. Within the World Wide Web, social network is becoming the favorite target for cybercriminals. This Attention requires an intensive focusing of web security efforts and money the most significant threats along with the common vulnerabilities exploited. Sensitive attribute inference through machine learning algorithms it is possible to infer sensitive data from one user. Collecting data from user’s contacts and experimented attacker can predict some not explicit data. For example, if all the friends of one user belong to one political party, it is safe to predict that the user has the same political ten dencies. Excessive exposition of private data inadequate privacy configuration settings may lead to publishing sensitive information. Some of the threats are private data management is a key feature that I have found inside of social networks. Digital dossier building- Everyone can collect published information through different OSN about one user and extract a complete dossier about it, Secondary Data Collection users may grant the platform secondary information (such as IP address, contacts list, messages or visited pages) Re-identification in spite of using fake data to register on a Social Network it is feasible to associate users shared data (such as text, photos, and video’s) with real names or e-mail directions. Vulnerabilities associated with OSN it is difficulty to completely remove all user information when deleting an account. When users try to leave a Social Network, license agreement clauses appear rights that are transferred to the platform when the content is uploaded. Thus if one would like to remove there uploaded material, it would find that the only way to do so is by deleting the videos or photos one by one manually another vulnerability would be weak authentication method on the internet are one of the most important vulnerabilities that web environments have nowadays. The combination of user-name and password is commonly misused by the user who seeks easy-to-remember login details (such as short user-name and passwords, passwords with no combination of numbers and letters same username and password for several domains) another vulnerability is non-validation of users data during registration process. Most of the OSN do not use a validation process during new user’s registration. Unfortunately, just checking a valid email address, the preferred validation requirements, is not an adequate method, which leads to proliferation of fake populating the network. In conclusion On-line social networks represent one of the last and most important internet services most of the enterprises hesitate to integrate OSN into their business model, this new phenomenon cannot be ignored, but neither can be adopted without knowing the risks account when attempting to protect users and systems. I have identified the risk, the threats that compromise them and noted the vulnerabilities exploited by those threats.

Romanticism in El Matadero

Esteban Echeverria, who spent five years in Paris before returning to Buenos Aires in 1830 when he became a political agitator against the tyrant Juan Manuel de Rosas, is credited with bringing romanticism to Spanish America. As a poet, he is remember for his narrative ballad La cautiva, the story of a white girl’s escape from enslavemente by nomadic Indians. Echeverria inaugurated the theme of the pampas as an archetypal landscape – a place of barbarism; but also the crucible of national identity for Argentina. He also wrote El matadero (‘The Slaughterhouse’, 1838), a short satirical prose piece in which a slaughterhouse becomes a powerful symbol of Rosas’s oppression of liberals in Buenos Aires. In 1839, Echeverria helped to found the Asociacion de Mayo, a group of young anti-Rosas activists, many of whom were to become important writers and future liberal leaders of Argentina. The gauchesque genre had its origins during the wars of independence in the River Plate area. It was influenced by the Spanish tradition of the cuadro de costumbres. Gaucho costumbrismo appealed to the romantics because it seemed to reflect a truly American way of life. By transforming the gaucho into an ambivalent national symbol, Echeverria crystallized the problem of national identity which all the Latin American republics would experience. Echeverria's renown as a writer rests largely on his powerful short story El matadero (â€Å"The Slaughterhouse,† written in 1839 but not published until 1871), a landmark in the history of Latin American literature. It is mostly significant because it displays the perceived clash between â€Å"civilization and barbarism†, that is, between the European and the â€Å"primitive and violent† American ways. Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, another great Argentine writer and thinker, saw this clash as the core of Latin American culture. Read in this light, â€Å"The Slaughterhouse† is a political allegory. Its more specific intention was to accuse Rosas of protecting the kind of thugs who murder the cultivated young protagonist at the Buenos Aires slaughterhouse. Rosas and his henchmen stand for barbarism, the slain young man for civilization.