Monday, November 25, 2019

Introduction to Pronouncing the French Alphabet

Introduction to Pronouncing the French Alphabet French pronunciation can be one of the more difficult aspects of learning French, especially for English speakers, but with time and practice, it is definitely possible to develop a good French accent. It important to do so eventually.  In French, pronunciation is a very big deal.  Phonetics, the system and study of sounds uttered in speaking  a language, in short, the way a language is pronounced, is taught in every language school serving foreigners. Students are drilled in opening their mouth, pursing their lips, hitting the roof of their mouth precisely with their tongue and other techniques involved in speaking French correctly.   Consonants and Vowels The French alphabet has the same 26 letters as the English alphabet does, but of course, most of the letters are pronounced differently in the two languages. In addition, French has five accents: four for vowels and one for a consonant, which English, of course, does not have. Vowels are the most problematic for non-native speakers, especially speakers of Germanic languages like English and German, who do not use the muscles in their face and mouth as much as the French. In the table below, start at the top with the links to pronunciation guides for French consonants and  French vowels.   Links to Detailed Letter Pages Then click on the capital letters in the table below and youll move on to the letter pages, each of which offers a detailed description of the pronunciation of that letter, including letter combinations, numerous examples and information about the accents that may be used with that letter. For each letter, note the rules governing its pronunciation, and follow them. When you are comfortable with pronouncing letters, proceed to the French Audio Guide, which illustrates with sound files, rules of the road and examples how to pronounce 2,500 French words and expressions. Remember that there is only so much you can do to improve your pronunciation on your own. At some point, you will almost certainly need to take a class, go to France  or hire a private tutor. Online pronunciation lessons like these can never take the place of interaction with native or fluent speakers, but at least they can help you get started or supplement what youve already learned. Allez-y! Pronounce the French Alphabet Consonants  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Vowels ​ A  Ã‚  B  Ã‚  C  Ã‚  D  Ã‚  E  Ã‚  F  Ã‚  G  Ã‚  H  Ã‚  I  Ã‚  J  Ã‚  K  Ã‚  L  Ã‚  M  Ã‚  N  Ã‚  O  Ã‚  P  Ã‚  Q  Ã‚  R  Ã‚  S  Ã‚  T  Ã‚  U  Ã‚  V  Ã‚  W  Ã‚  X  Ã‚  Y  Ã‚  Z

Thursday, November 21, 2019

The Influence of Demographic Characteristics on Leadership Practices Research Paper

The Influence of Demographic Characteristics on Leadership Practices in the Hotel Industry - Research Paper Example The rampant globalization of the international market has caused significant growth in the diversity of employee demographics. In order to keep up with the growing demands for quality and innovation, many organizations have formulated new management styles that promote interdependence among the workforce (Gould, 2008). With the aim of determining suitable management styles, various studies have been conducted on employee demographics and how it affects the performance of an organization (Tannenbaum and Schmidt, 2009). There are several management styles that have its advantages and limitations. Such management styles address specific points of interest within the workforce. However, better understanding has to be garnered in order to properly impose management programs that best suits the needs of a company and its subordinates. Moreover, it is necessary to understand how to eliminate or at least minimize the negative effects of social differences within the workforce through proper management techniques. The effects of social differences among the workforce have caused organizations to suffer in terms of performance. Discrimination has also emerged from such growing employee diversity (Appleby, 2007). It has become a necessity for organizations to respond to such issues through effective management programs (Sfodera, 2006). Moreover, the results of this study would be of great value to hotel management officers, enabling them to make better decisions in their management practices. Essentially, the management is the core to the successful performance of an organization (Tannenbaum and Schmidt, 2009). ... Research Objectives 1) To determine hotel employees’ perceptions of the leadership styles practiced within their organisation; 2) To ascertain whether demographic traits influence leadership style perceptions a) gender b) age c) nationality d) educational attainment; 3) To put forth recommendations for improving leadership practices within the hotel. Review of Related Literature Management Styles In the broad sense, management styles are the manner and techniques of handling subordinates and making decisions with them. There are various management styles that fit well in particular circumstances (Tannenbaum and Schmidt, 2009). Moreover, managers should impose different management styles in order to compensate for the weaknesses of every technique. Among the common management styles are Autocratic, Paternalistic, Democratic, Laissez-Faire, and Management by Walking Around (MBWA) Autocratic The Autocratic style is where a manager makes unilateral decisions without giving much co nsideration for the subordinates. This results to decisions and outcomes that reflect the personality and opinion of the manager. Such management style projects a confident, structured and well-managed business. However, the subordinates may end up becoming too dependent on the manager; thus, requiring more supervision (Hurley, 2010). Autocratic leaders could be further categorized into two types: the Directive Autocrat; and the Permissive Autocrat (Tannenbaum and Schmidt, 2009). The Directive Autocrat makes decisions unilaterally while giving much attention and close supervision of the subordinates. On the other hand, the Permissive Autocrat makes unilateral decisions while being more lenient on the subordinates, which enables them to

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

How does Technology Affect the Law, How does the Law Affect Technology Research Paper

How does Technology Affect the Law, How does the Law Affect Technology - Research Paper Example They have become a staple need in our daily lives and even provide entertainment for a boring day at work. Cell phones, as handy as they may be, can cause distractions which provide the opportunity to end the carrier’s life and even those around them. On July 1st, 2008, California State passed a law banning the use of wireless phones while operating a motorized vehicle. In the United States, cell phones cause about 2,600 deaths and 330,000 mobile phone related injuries per year ( livescience.com. 2005). With the new law in effect, it will help prevent the use of mobile phones while driving and hopefully cause less deaths and injuries. On the conservationist front, the Californian government is proposing to ban the usage and sales of large screen television sets. In a report by wired.com, by January 1, 2011, California’s television size limit will reduce to 0.156* Screen Area (sq. in.) + 80 and 0.12* Screen Area (sq. in.) + 25 in 2013. This stand is to help reduce energy consumption and promote energy conservation in California and will reduce energy costs by 49%. Other electrical appliances to have been regulated by the government include air conditioners, and even refrigerators. Facebook, a popular website used by millions world-wide, has caused even the Canadian government to change its plans. On December 7th, 2007, an internet law professor, Micheal Geist created a group in Facebook informing Canadians of their government’s plans of a copy write reformation. BBC news ( 2007) reported that in just two weeks over 30,000 members had joined the group. In fact, many members contacted the Canadian government on the issue. The Canadian Industry Minister, Jim Prentice, decided to delay the reformation. This was proof to many organizations that technological mediums cannot be ignored. With ever-changing technologies, the law may be too slow to keep it in check. Although decades of law enforcement for technology

Monday, November 18, 2019

Impact of Instructional Coaching on Students Thesis

Impact of Instructional Coaching on Students - Thesis Example The thesis represents the comprehensive analysis regarding the subject matter of impact of instructional coaching on students’ achievements. The report comes under division into five major components. The introduction of the testimony elucidates the background information with reference to the topic of concern, which comes under following by the literature review segment that enlightens the deeper learning about the topic under discussion. The hypothesis explicitly states the theme that would come under focus in the project report. The findings of various themes under discourse are also a crucial part that has come under integration that would enlighten how the evaluation methods can help assess the impact of instructional coaching on students and their performances. ... Therefore, all the inhabitants of each culture respect the value and role of knowledge, as they are well aware of the fact that education is one of the imperative elements that can make an individual reach the heights of success (Adams &  Hamm, 2005). As everyone comes under acquaintance with the advancements that the world has encountered until the twenty first century, this has brought constructive alterations, developments, growth, and expansions in all fields that even include the education and learning practice and curriculums for the students. As an outcome of such novelties, the methods and techniques of teaching have also transformed, and hence augmented the new and modern ways of schooling and education. Thus, this process has become an ongoing practice that can lead to enhance the performance of the students and boost their level of understanding (Adams &  Hamm, 2005). Out of numerous teaching methods that have come under introduction and practice, instructional coachin g is amongst one of those modern ways that has come under implementation in the recent times. According to the web definition, an instructional coach is someone who â€Å"maintains a non-evaluative, learning relationship as a professional developer working with a teacher. Both coach and teacher share the expressed goal of learning together, thereby improving instruction and student achievement† (Gwazdauskas &  Northcentral University, pp.8, 2009). In other words, an instructional coach is primarily and professionally accountable for implementing the evidence-based learning practices into the classrooms of the school in accordance with the teachers and

Friday, November 15, 2019

Motivation among Construction workers in Cyprus

Motivation among Construction workers in Cyprus This assignment serves as a proposal for the dissertation requirements and the associated research to be carried out. The dissertation paper will focus on individual development in terms of motivation. More specifically, it will investigate the levels of motivation of the employees in the Construction industry of Cyprus, using Maslows Needs Hierarchy as its theoretical base. The main research question to be addressed is What is the degree of satisfaction at each level of Maslows Hierarchy of Needs among the Construction Industry workers in Cyprus? The particular industry, throughout the world and in Cyprus, faces a series of problems (Yankov Kleiner, 2001). Some of the problems include communication and coordination problems. Also, productivity is observed to be relatively low when compared with other sectors, and this has a direct effect on inflating costs and organisational inefficiency. Parkin et al. (2009) states that motivation is an important factor influencing productivity and that various forms of rewards can stimulate motivation. The particular research aims to determine the degree of satisfaction and the importance of each level of Maslows Hierarchy for workers. This will contribute to the better understanding of employee motivation by managers and thus help in the designing of appropriate reward systems that will have a significant impact on increasing employee motivation. The inspiration for conducting such research came from the authors personal interest on the specific industry and topic, after working as a construction site manager for some time and studying various motivation theories through the current course. Additionally, no research has been conducted on the specific industry on the island until now. All these make the proposed research interesting and important since it will introduce some understanding on the motivation levels of the workers and it will help the rapidly developing construction industry of Cyprus to become more cost effective through adopting more suitable management practises. The following sections introduce the key literature on the topic and the proposed methodology to be used. Also, some details are given on the problems to be addressed, the context of the study, the planned timeframe and the anticipated contributions of this research to theory, knowledge and practise. Review of Key Literature Motivation and Content Theories Motivation can be defined as the cognitive, decision-making process through which goal-directed behaviour is initiated, energized, and directed and maintained (Buchanan Huczynski, 2004, p.244). Content Theories of motivation focus on the goals to which humans aim to achieve (Mullins, 2007, p.256). One of the earliest content theories is the needs hierarchy by Abraham Maslow (1943). Other content theories followed Maslows work, such as Alderfers ERG model and Herzbergs Two Factor theory, but the Hierarchy of Needs is the cornerstone theory on individual development and motivation. Since motivation is a determinant of behaviour and performance, content theories such as the work of Maslow aim to provide the contextual framework for understanding the various motives, and thus using the information to influence performance (Parkin, et al, 2009). The main criticism of such theories is that they lack robust empirical support, especially Maslows Hierarchy of Needs (Roberts, 1982). Additionally, there is a fundamental problem in applying them in organisational settings since most of the above theories concentrate on the individual and so downgrade social interaction, culture and learning (Trigg, 2004). Nevertheless, content theories are extensively used by managers as a framework for dealing with their employees. Maslows Hierarchy of Needs in brief Dr. Maslow started his study on the hierarchy of human needs when he became interested to find out why two of his professors were so different from the rest (Maslow, 1975). Unlike previous researchers, he synthesised a wide body of research and adopted a holistic approach on studying human motivation (Francis Kritsonis, 2006). So he proposed the hierarchy of needs, consisting of five parameters, with the top level being Self-Actualisation. The top level is discussed in further detail in the next section. The pyramid below illustrates the five needs in the order of their priority. Source: Shoura Singh, 1998 Maslow (1943) briefly describes the five parameters as follows: Physiological Needs: these are the starting point for motivation and they are also called physiological needs. They include survival needs such as food, water and sleep. Safety Needs: after fulfilling the survival needs, one needs to secure his body and his job. Also, there is the need to protect his property and family. Belonging Needs: the need to belong to a social group, to love and being loved and fellowship with others. Esteem Needs: the need for recognition, achievement and independence. The need for high self-evaluation based on capability and the respect of others. Self-Actualization Needs: the advancement of the individual and humanity through elevating spirituality, true perception and growth. Lingard and Rowlinson (2005) explain that individuals progress up the pyramid in a systematic manner. In other words, once the lower need has been satisfied, it is no longer a motivator and the next parameter becomes the primary motivator. This is known as the concept of satisfaction-progression process. Moreover, Mullins (2007) adds that there exists a decreasing degree of satisfaction at each level. So as lower needs become more satisfied, higher level needs start to emerge. Finally, Maslow (1943) explains that there are exceptions, where the hierarchy is not necessarily in the proposed order for them. Examples of such exceptions include people in chronic unemployment who may lose interest in higher level needs because they seek satisfaction from low level needs. Empirical Studies and Criticism of the Hierarchy Maslows theory served as the theoretical basis for numerous research projects (Shoura Singh, 1998). Some studies found Maslows theory to be valid when empirically tested, while others criticised it for not applying to non-western cultures and other classes than the middle class. Some of the studies that confirmed the theory include the study measuring motivation levels in Venezuela by Socorro and Ramirez (1986) and in USA by Hankins and Clark (1989). In addition, a study on personality-factor tendencies in Israel by Megen (1985) found that the tendencies were highly consistent with Maslows Self-actualization characteristics. Finally, Lester et al (1983) found that the levels of satisfaction of the parameters were related to measures of neuroticism, therefore making Maslows theory credible. Recent studies by Parkin et al (2009) and Kazaz and Ulubeyli (2007) found that the decreasing degree of satisfaction of the parameters was not valid for construction workers in Turkey. They claim that higher needs appeared more accomplished than lower level needs, and that extrinsic rewards (monetary) were the main motivators. Moreover, some theoretical criticism suggests that Maslows methodology was not scientifically appropriate and that the sample he used was extremely exclusive (Trigg, 2004). Also, various authors, including Alderfer, challenged the satisfaction-progression hypothesis, saying that any one deficiency can exist along another one. Finally, Buchanan and Huczynski (2004) and Maher (2002) state that the definition of Self-actualization is too vague and leads to empirical problems, and that the hierarchy cannot fully interpret behaviour as it lacks aspects of evolution, learning, culture and social interaction. Self-Development Potential Total Self-Development, or Self-actualization, drives humans to expand awareness, beyond common materialistic knowledge, into higher consciousness levels of existence (Shoura Singh, 1998). This parameter can be linked with Total Quality Management practises in the sense that if a person is on its pursuit it means that he will extend his potential, become more operational and effective. Furthermore, the pursuit of self-actualization is responsible for the expansion of the mind, which can be very useful for organisations. This is because such employees strive to acquire understanding beyond common, available knowledge, and this can translate into human capital (Singh, 1996). Maslow (1943) states that self-actualizing people develop Being Values. These are the ultimate values that cannot be reduced to anything more ultimate (Maslow, 1975). Despite the fact that they develop during the final parameter, they still behave like needs- thats why they are called metaneeds (Goble, 2004). Failure to fulfil such metaneeds leads to the sickness of the soul, also known as metapathology. On the other hand, if such needs are fulfilled, then the individual enjoys life the most, with vivid experiences and is able to see symbolism in various aspects. Of course, this parameter is also an on-going process, where the individual goes back and forth from the previous parameter (Maslow, 1975). Motivation, Productivity and Work Many authors stress that motivation levels can affect productivity to a great extend (Parkin et al, 2009; Mullins, 2007). Yankov and Kleiner (2001) add that by applying motivation theories on organisational context can help managers understand the levels of motivation for employees and design systems for the optimization of human resources in the production. Such systems can include both extrinsic and intrinsic rewards, depending on the employees indicated deficiencies. The research proposed by this essay will attempt to define the motivation parameters fulfilment using Maslows Hierarchy of need. This will give insights to managers in the specific industry on the deficiencies of the workforce. Therefore this data will assist in the development of suitable reward systems that will cover the suggested deficiencies and increase productivity through increased motivation. Why use Maslow and not any other Content theory? The proposed research will utilize Maslows theory because it is the most incorporated theory in the Business world (Buchanan Huczynski, 2004). Management fashions such as TQM, BPR and job enrichment integrate Maslows ideas for motivation since it has a broad coverage. Moreover, it is the only theory with such depth and close ties with psychology, which is one of the researchers personal interests. Proposed Methodology Research Questions What methodology must be developed for suitably assessing the motivation parameters of employees in the Construction Industry of Cyprus? What is the degree of satisfaction at each parameter of Maslows Needs Hierarchy among workers in the Construction Industry of Cyprus? How can managers use the findings to increase motivation levels, and thus productivity? Methodology related Questions What is a sufficient sample? How errors will be limited and reliability will be ensured? Approach, Target Group and Sample Sufficiency The target group for the specific research are the low ranking workers on the construction sites to be visited. These include builders, plumbers, electricians and any other technician that does not hold a managerial position. By including all the type of employees working in the Construction Industry, a holistic approach of motivation parameters will be retrieved for the whole industry. The collection of data will be obtained through personal survey by the researcher, with the uses of a quantitative questionnaire. Since the actual meaning of a dissertation is a small scale research, a sample of 50 to 70 responders should be sufficient, provided that the majority of those asked will take part in the research. As section 4 explains, responders will be randomly selected, provided that they hold a low ranking position, and the sites to be visited will be both random and specific. The questionnaire intends to include questions that cover the 5 motivational parameters, in order to be able to develop a quantitative assessment for each responder at each parameter. Each parameter will be covered by more than one question. The response to questions will be measured using a Likert Scale from 1 to 7, with 1 representing total disagreement and 7 total agreement. Additionally, the responder will be asked to respond to the same questions in terms of personal importance. Triangulation of Data The Triangulation theory enables researchers to assess and complete hypotheses (Denzin, 1978). Based on this, the questionnaire will include multiple questions studying the same variable, and also questions will be randomized to check whether responses to similar questions are matched. Evaluation Methods For data evaluation, some terminology and formulas are adopted from Shoura and Singh (1998). This also helps in cross reference compatibility. Firstly, all the questions will be grouped according to the parameter they test, and the mean value of each responder for all questions will be calculated (Quality Index numerical parameter). Then, all the QIs will be averaged to find the group QI. QI is helpful to see the instant perception of questions by responders. The same procedure will be done for the responses of the same questions for personal importance. This will be named Relevance Factor (RF). Moreover, QI will be divided by RF, and with using a convenience factor multiplication (k), it will produce a value between 1 and 100 (Scaled QI). This will serve as an additional numerical parameter for assessment. To illustrate the use of SQI, lets say that RF is high. This produces a low SQI that shows that attention must be placed on the specific parameter. Finally, regarding the central tendency theorem, the standard deviation of QI, RF and SQI will be calculated to see question responses fluctuated around the average. Where central tendency is observed, it is important to analyse the data since important conclusions can be drawn. The appendix contains the statistical formulas. Effectiveness of Proposed Methodology and Alternative methods availability The proposed methodology is expected to be effective since it appears to be rational and triangulated. In addition, the work of Shoura and Singh (1998) helped in the final formulation. A similar version was tested in Honolulu and the results were credible. This methodology can be made more effective by relating the results with demographics, where especially age is very important in the analysis of Self-Actualization. Unfortunately, integrating such an analysis will exceed the length of such a small research project. Alternative methods of assessing motivation parameters include recorded interviews with employees or with managers that lay down their views about their staff. However, this takes a qualitative data form which requires a more complex analysis. So a quantitative data collection is preferred, where responses are homogeneous and easier to analyse. Some other researchers chose to send their questionnaires through email or by post. The specific researcher prefers to be involved personally in the data collection to make sure that there is complete understanding and everything goes as planned. Ethical Considerations and Practical Considerations It is important to state once again that this research is intended to be of a small scale; therefore no generalizations can be made using its findings. Nonetheless, it can be used as a reference on future research. Moreover, subjects will be fully explained of the requirements and be assured that the research will remain anonymous and will not affect their job. This information will be printed on the questionnaire and further stressed by the researcher. Further considerations on ethics include the fact that participation is voluntary and that the completed questionnaires will not be shown to anyone. Finally, the supervisor will sign a statement confirming the purpose of the research and the results will be shown to managers whose employees participated. For the timeframe and the feasibility issues of the research see Section 4. Context, Timeframe and feasibility Context of Study The researcher plans to distribute the questionnaires in construction sites in the 4 main provinces in Cyprus Larnaca, Nicosia, Limassol and Paphos. Each province consists of one major city and a number of small villages around it. The sites to be visited include some specific and random. The specific sites are those known through acquaintances made during working experience. The criteria for selecting the random sites will be their convenient location and the number of workers on the site. The questionnaire will be distributed randomly to low ranking employees that are willing to participate in the research. In regards to the construction industry of Cyprus, it is a rapidly developing industry producing around 20% of the Republics GDP (CYSTAT, 2010). The particular industry also serves as a significant foreign currency earner, since properties are exported mainly to residents from the UK and Russia. The workers on the sites can be described as low skilled labour with low educational qualifications, mainly of eastern European nationalities. The specific research will only target these technicians and will exclude any qualified engineers and high ranking staff since most of them occupy a managerial position. Finally, it is observed that most firms in the industry do not have an HRM department. So any reward schemes are designed by CEOs who are not specialized in the field, especially in terms of motivation. Timeframe The time-line of the research is designed in advance. All tasks are given generous time and the plan aims to finish the whole project 2 weeks before the deadline. These actions allow for any unexpected events that may occur and disturb some tasks. The calendar in the Appendix shows the timeline in detail. Briefly, the first literature review will start on the 21 of March and last for 3 weeks. Then the questionnaire will be designed using one week and in the next two weeks, data will be collected by visiting the various sites and handing out the questionnaires. On the 1st of June, a deeper literature review will take place for 3 weeks and then the data will be recorded and analysed. After analysing the data, one week will be dedicated to studying literature and relating to results. The final task is to write the dissertation, and this will take 4 weeks. Feasibility The weeks that data will be collected are appropriate since they do not involve any holidays and workers are expected to be on the site. Also, it is a good time for the researcher since the weeks do not collide with exams or any other obligations. Finally, a friend acting as a translator is available at that specific time. Furthermore, some of the site managers were informed about the research on their staff, and are happy to collaborate. Some other conditions that need to be met to ensure the smooth running of the research include: A translator will accompany the researcher to ensure that the subjects fully understand the questions and the requirements (the translator is a friend of the researcher, speaking Bulgarian, Romanian and Turkish, that has confirmed that he will participate) The researcher will be present to provide clarifications and instructions The questions have to be designed so that the most illiterate person can understand them Identification of the Problems to be addressed The suggested research will address the problem between employees motivation and productivity, by examining the motivation parameter fulfilment on Maslows Needs Hierarchy. Through this, other problems will also be addressed. These include the lack of empirical data on the motivation levels of the workers in the specific industry that can be used by managers in order to design policies that stimulate motivation. Finally, the results can be used to find out whether contemporary reward schemes address the needs of workers or they are irrelevant and ineffective. Research Contributions Similar studies on motivation claim that they contributed both in theory and practice. Kazaz and Ulubeyli (2007) suggest that their study contributed to the enhancement of the validity of Maslows Theory but also indicated that some concepts are not completely valid. Furthermore, Parkin et al, (2009) and Shoura and Singh (1998) suggest that they provided vital insights to managers in the specific industries that will contribute to the fine-tuning of Human Resources. The specific study will also contribute to theory, in the sense that it will try to test the validity of Maslows theory in a small island society and on a lower societal class than the middle class. Additionally, it aims to add to the knowledge on the motivation levels of employees in the Construction Industry of Cyprus, which may act as an inspiration for future research. Finally, it aims to help management practice in an industry where HR expertise is limited and reward schemes are designed randomly, based on instinct and experience.

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Tombs And Temples Essay -- essays research papers

What are some major architectural structures of Ancient Egypt? There are many amazing sites of architecture in Egypt from ancient times. Many have been discovered, but there are still ones being discovered and excavated today. Pyramids, tombs, and temples are the main structures still standing that can be seen today. The first tombs of the pharaohs were large, unimpressive, bunker affairs called mastabas. A mastaba (Arabic for "bench") is a low rectangular structure which was built over a shaft which descended to the burial location. They were made from sun dried mud bricks and most have long since crumbled to dust. This all changed around 2630 BC with the creation of the step pyramid. The Step Pyramid was designed for King Djoser ,of the 3rd dynasty, by his vizier, Imhotep. The pyramid is located in Saqqara, the main necropolis of Memphis. The Saqqara pyramid has a series of six levels of stone decreasing in size as they ascend to about 200 feet/60 meters in height. The Step Pyramid originally began as a mastaba, and it has been visualized as a series of mastaba shapes, decreasing in size, stacked one on top of another. The surface was originally encased in smooth white limestone which must have caught the sun light and reflected its rays. It has the distinction of being the site of the first large stone structure built in the world. The place where humans began to strive for the impossible, where the imagination gained the power to transform reality. Some of the loveliest works of art ever seen can be found at Saqqara, in the tombs of the nobles. The limestone walls are delicately incised with myriads of animals, fish, birds, insects, vegetation and people - hunting, herding and farming. Some of the forms still retain their original paint, after 4,500 years! The quality of these compositions demonstrates that the Egyptians had attained, at an early stage, an artistic culture of a very high order. Cattle Crossing is an etching made from sketches done at Saqqara. The medium of etching, itself a process of erosion, seems well suited to capturing the time worn quality of the relief carving. The person responsible for the step pyramid, Imhotep, is credited as being the inventor of building in stone and was a man of many talents - Architect, physician, master sculpture, scribe, and astronomer. He must be the first true genius in recorded history and t... ...ed these. Dendara was also used as a healing centre and in the grounds stands an ancient hospital along with a sacred lake. After visiting Dendara one gets a feel for the layout of other temples along the Nile and in the minds eye it is possible to reconstruct the really huge design of buildings like Karnak. What really grabbed my artistic attention among all this magnificence was a small detail. The place sings with the music of birds. Hundreds of them roost in small cracks and hollows in the walls seeming to contemplate their carved likeness in the hieroglyphic reliefs. There is one other thing that stirs the imagination, the building bares the name of the famous Cleopatra and her son, whose father was Julius Caesar. It is possible that these celebrate personalities climbed the same stairs and contemplated, on high, the same landscape which stretches for miles below. In Summation, some of the most precious examples of architecture from the ancient world are of the ancient Egyptians. Although the ancient Egyptians lived in a primitive world, they proved to have great knowledge for building lasting structures that would forever have a unique and majestic influence on the world.

Monday, November 11, 2019

For and Against Pollution

These days, more and more people are using their own cars to commute. The increasing number of vehicles in our cities contributes to the high levels of pollution in the air. When faced with taking private cars or public transport, people react in different ways. I will discuss  the for and against arguments of using private cars or public transport. People prefer private cars over public transport  for several reasons. Firstly, private cars are believed to be faster than public transport since people don’t have to spend their precious time waiting for  a  bus.In addition, bus-shelters are usually crammed with people. Secondly, you can go  directly  from work to home much faster. Furthermore, there are people who don’t like to share  places with unknown persons or they don’t like to be standing up during  their  journey. For instance, when taking a bus in rush hours it is very difficult to find  a spare seat  and eventually you end up graspin g a hand bar and trying to keep your balance  so as not be flung  around  when the bus brakes. On the other hand, there are other people who prefer public transport to private cars.Using public transport is cheaper than using  your own car. Ask people who use private cars on a regular basis how much  Ã‚  they spend on their cars every month. Not only do people have to pay for high parking prices  and fuel, but also the expense  incurred when they take their car to the garage to have it repaired. Unlike private cars, public transport has reserved  lanes in many cities; so long delays due to traffic congestion can be avoided  by  taking a bus or a taxi. As far  as  the  environment is concerned, the use of public transport instead of private cars makes a difference.For  example, if the people who use a bus  were to use  their own vehicles instead,  this  would  definitely contribute to air pollution. In conclusion, using private cars is expensive and produces more atmospheric pollution than  public transport does. All in all, public transport is  proven  to be more efficient  and cheaper than private cars. For this reason, I feel that we  should all  try to use public transport whenever possible. It is  beneficial for our finances, our time, and  more significantly to our  environment.

Friday, November 8, 2019

Buildings to See in Tennessee

Buildings to See in Tennessee From Memphis to Nashville, Tennessee offers a variety of interesting and often surprising architecture. The great state of Tennessee even boasts a house by Frank Lloyd Wright and the controversial home of former Vice President Al Gore. Architecture in Memphis Graceland Mansion was home to rock star Elvis Presley from 1957 until his death on August 16, 1977. Its now a National Historic Landmark and the most popular tourist attraction in Memphis. In fact, it seem that all Memphis tourism centers around Graceland, but its also worth a trip into town to visit some of where the locals hang out. Not many skyscrapers on the eastern shore of the Mississippi River. The tallest building in Memphis is the 430 foot 100 North Main Building built way back in 1965. From this skyscraper, turn around to South Main Street, where youll find turn-of-the-20th century architecture in the historic arts district. Headed back toward Graceland Mansion is the mid-19th century Elmwood Cemetery, which got its start during the Rural Cemetery Movement. Nashville Sites Capitol State Park MallSite of many important buildings and memorials.Tennessee State CapitolDesigned by the noted architect William Strickland.The HermitageHome of President Andrew Jackson.The Nashville ParthenonWorlds only full size replica of the ancient Parthenon of Greece.Batman Building (ATT), Earl Swensson Associates Architect (1994)The tallest building in Tennessee.Belle Meade PlantationQueen of Tennessee Plantations.Historic GermantownGrand houses, workers cottages, and shotgun homes.Nashvilles Best Historical HomesRyman AuditoriumHome of the Grand Ole Opry Chattanooga Terminal Station, Chattanooga Choo ChooHunter Museum of American ArtWalnut Street Bridge, 1891, wrought-iron and steelThe privately owned Usonian home built for Seamour and Gerte Shavin by Frank Lloyd Wright is located at 334 N. Crest Road on Missionary Ridge. Plantation Houses Belle Meade Plantation, NashvilleOaklands, MurfreesboroRippavilla, Spring HillAntebellum Architecture Victorian Tennessee Historic Rugby, a Utopian community founded by Thomas Hughes, author of Tom Browns School Days Plan Your Trip to Tennessee Plenty of other excitement can be found all over the state. When visiting Discovery Park of America in Union City, remember that architects were involved with its making. And if the museum looks familiar it might be because Bostons famous Verner Johnson company had a hand in its design. The Great Smoky Mountains alone are enough of an excuse to get yourself to Tennessee, but then theres Dollywood in Pigeon Forge that will keep you there. Architectural gems can be found throughout the state, like the Langston Hughes Library on the Alex Haley Farm in Clinton, Tennessee, a small reference library designed in 1999 by Maya Lin. Plan your trip with Tennessee Tourism and the whole state can be your destination. Sources Tallest buildings in Memphis, EMPORIS, https://www.emporis.com/statistics/tallest-buildings/city/101918/memphis-tn-usa [accessed October 2, 2017]

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

A Timeline of Events in Electromagnetism

A Timeline of Events in Electromagnetism Human fascination with electromagnetism, the interaction of electric currents and magnetic fields, dates back to the dawn of time with the human observation of lightning and other unexplainable occurrences, such as electric fish and eels. Humans knew there was a phenomenon, but it remained shrouded in mysticism until the 1600s when scientists began digging deeper into theory. This timeline of events about the discovery and research leading to our modern understanding of electromagnetism demonstrates how scientists, inventors, and theorists worked together to advance the science collectively. 600 BCE: Sparking Amber in Ancient Greece The earliest writings about electromagnetism were in 600 BCE, when the ancient Greek philosopher, mathematician and scientist Thales of Miletus described his experiments rubbing animal fur on various substances such as amber. Thales discovered that amber rubbed with fur attracts bits of dust and hairs that create static electricity, and if he rubbed the amber for long enough, he could even get an electric spark to jump. 221–206 BCE: Chinese Lodestone Compass The magnetic compass is an ancient Chinese invention, likely first made in China during the Qin dynasty, from 221 to 206 BCE. The compass used a lodestone, a magnetic oxide, to indicate true north. The underlying concept may not have been understood, but the ability of the compass to point true north was clear. 1600: Gilbert and the Lodestone Toward the late 16th century, the founder of electrical science English scientist William Gilbert published De Magnete in Latin translated as On the Magnet or On the Lodestone. Gilbert was a contemporary of Galileo, who was impressed by Gilberts work. Gilbert undertook a number of careful electrical experiments, in the course of which he discovered that many substances were capable of manifesting electrical properties. Gilbert also discovered that a heated body lost its electricity and that moisture prevented the electrification of all bodies. He also noticed that electrified substances attracted all other substances indiscriminately, whereas a magnet only attracted iron. 1752: Franklins Kite Experiments American founding father Benjamin Franklin is famous for the extremely dangerous experiment he ran, of having his son fly a kite through a storm-threatened sky. A key attached to the kite string sparked and charged a Leyden jar, thus establishing the link between lightning and electricity. Following these experiments, he invented the lightning rod. Franklin discovered there are two kinds of charges, positive and negative: objects with like charges repel one another, and those with unlike charges attract one another. Franklin also documented the conservation of charge, the theory that an isolated system has a constant total charge. 1785: Coulombs Law In 1785, French physicist Charles-Augustin de Coulomb developed Coulombs law, the definition of the electrostatic force of attraction and repulsion. He found that the force exerted between two small electrified bodies is directly proportional to the product of the magnitude of charges and varies inversely to the square of the distance between those charges. Coulombs discovery of the law of inverse squares virtually annexed a large part of the domain of electricity. He also produced important work on the study of friction. 1789: Galvanic Electricity In 1780, Italian professor Luigi Galvani (1737–1790) discovered that electricity from two different metals causes frog legs to twitch. He observed that a frogs muscle, suspended on an iron balustrade by a copper hook passing through its dorsal column, underwent lively convulsions without any extraneous cause. To account for this phenomenon, Galvani assumed that electricity of opposite kinds existed in the nerves and muscles of the frog. Galvani published the results of his discoveries in 1789, together with his hypothesis, which engrossed the attention of the physicists of that time. 1790: Voltaic Electricity Italian physicist, chemist and inventor Alessandro Volta (1745–1827) read of Galvanis research and in his own work discovered that chemicals acting on two dissimilar metals generate electricity without the benefit of a frog. He invented the first electric battery, the voltaic pile battery in 1799. With the pile battery, Volta proved that electricity could be generated chemically and debunked the prevalent theory that electricity was generated solely by living beings. Voltas invention sparked a great deal of scientific excitement, leading others to conduct similar experiments which eventually led to the development of the field of electrochemistry. 1820: Magnetic Fields In 1820, Danish physicist and chemist Hans Christian Oersted (1777–1851) discovered what would become known as Oersteds Law: that an electric current affects a compass needle and creates magnetic fields. He was the first scientist to find the connection between electricity and magnetism. 1821: Amperes Electrodynamics French physicist Andre Marie Ampere (1775–1836) found that wires carrying current produce forces on each other, announcing his theory of electrodynamics in 1821. Amperes theory of electrodynamics states that two parallel portions of a circuit attract one another if the currents in them are flowing in the same direction, and repel one another if the currents flow in the opposite direction. Two portions of circuits crossing one another obliquely attract one another if both the currents flow either towards or from the point of crossing and repel one another if one flows to and the other from that point. When an element of a circuit exerts a force on another element of a circuit, that force always tends to urge the second one in a direction at right angles to its own direction. 1831: Faraday and Electromagnetic Induction English scientist Michael Faraday (1791–1867) at the Royal Society in London developed the idea of an electric field and studied the effect of currents on magnets. His research found that the magnetic field created around a conductor carried a direct current, thereby establishing the basis for the concept of the electromagnetic field in physics. Faraday also established that magnetism could affect rays of light and that there was an underlying relationship between the two phenomena. He similarly discovered the principles of electromagnetic induction and diamagnetism and the laws of electrolysis. 1873: Maxwell and the Basis of Electromagnetic Theory James Clerk Maxwell (1831–1879), a Scottish physicist and mathematician, recognized that electromagnetisms processes could be established using mathematics. Maxwell published Treatise on Electricity and Magnetism in 1873 in which he summarizes and synthesizes the discoveries of Coloumb, Oersted, Ampere, Faraday into four mathematical equations. Maxwells equations are used today as the basis of electromagnetic theory. Maxwell predicts the connections of magnetism and electricity leading directly to the prediction of electromagnetic waves. 1885: Hertz and Electric Waves German physicist Heinrich Hertz proved Maxwells electromagnetic wave theory was correct, and in the process, generated and detected electromagnetic waves. Hertz published his work in a book, Electric Waves: Being Researches on the Propagation of Electric Action With Finite Velocity Through Space. The discovery of electromagnetic waves led to the development to the radio. The unit of frequency of the waves measured in cycles per second was named the hertz in his honor. 1895: Marconi and the Radio In 1895, Italian inventor and electrical engineer Guglielmo Marconi put the discovery of electromagnetic waves to practical use by sending messages over long distances using radio signals, also known as the wireless. He was known for his pioneering work on long-distance radio transmission and his development of Marconis law and a radio telegraph system. He is often credited as the inventor of the radio, and he shared the 1909 Nobel Prize in Physics with Karl Ferdinand Braun in recognition of their contributions to the development of wireless telegraphy. Sources Andrà © Marie Ampà ¨re. St. Andrews University. 1998. Web. June 10, 2018.Benjamin Franklin and the Kite Experiment. The Franklin Institute. Web. June 10, 2018.Coulombs Law. The Physics Classroom. Web. June 10, 2018. De Magnete. The William Gilbert Website. Web. June 10, 2018.July 1820: Oersted and electromagnetism. This Month in Physics History, APS News. 2008. Web. June 10, 2018.OGrady, Patricia. Thales of Miletus (c. 620 B.C.E.- c. 546 B.C.E.). Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy. Web. June 10, 2018Silverman, Susan. Compass, China, 200 BCE. Smith College. Web. June 10, 2018.

Monday, November 4, 2019

Web Based Business Models Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Web Based Business Models - Essay Example Many of Apples flaws are not in its operating system, Mac OS X, but rather in software like Safari, QuickTime, and iTunes. Music and iPod sales are important factors in Apple’s revenue matrix. The company sold 28 million iPods, 248 percent revenue and 409 percent unit increase year over year. Highlights of the company’s iPod line this year included the introduction of the iPod shuffle and iPod nano — the nano was introduced near the end of Apple’s fiscal 2005. Helping along iPod sales are sales at Apple’s iTunes Music Store, an international operation that operates in more than 20 countries worldwide, totaling $621 million in revenue. Apple opened up 38 new brick and mortar retail stores in 2005, expanding operations internationally into Canada, Japan and the U.K. Retail sales grew almost double, to $2.4 billion during 2005. Apple reports annualized revenue per store of $22.4 million. The retail segment of Apple’s operations reported operating income of $151 million during 2005, compared to $39 during 2004. esearch & Development (R&D) spending increased substantially for 2005 — up 9 percent from 2004 to $534 million. But with Apple having a banner year for Macintosh and iPod sales, the R&D spending as a percentage of total net sales dropped year over year from 6 percent to 4 percent. Apple highlighted lawsuits it’s currently fighting and a few that it’s settled, as well. The company noted its disagreement with Beatles management company Apple Corps. Ltd., which is scheduled to go to court on March 27, 2006, as well as class action suits for Apple’s wireless networking products, allegations of defective memory in PowerBook G4s, sales tax, patent violations, iPod battery life and more. Pending or issued settlements include undisclosed arrangements over a â€Å"music jukebox† patent, a false advertising claim against DVD Studio Pro, and a settlement with

Friday, November 1, 2019

Criminal justice computer crime and patriot act Coursework

Criminal justice computer crime and patriot act - Coursework Example How has technology advanced these "crimes"? An evaluation on cybercrime legislation embraced by the different states of the United States of America is an informative exercise for various reasons. The states, which constitute the United States of America, have assumed fundamental cybercrime legislation that is completely different and unique to each State. There is a countless deal of disparity both in the coverage and in terms of methodology in the cybercrime legislation embraced by the different states. The cybercrime laws of states are seldomly modeled after federal registrations and as such, they contain very great variations (Schmalleger, 2012). This variation is the product of several reasons. One factor is the relative promptness with which cybercrime has risen as an individual problem. Cybercrime is a new phenomenon, and states, expectedly, differ extensively in the swiftness with which they address the kinds of behavior that can be classified as "cybercrime.† In additi on, the vague characteristic in the term of "cybercrime" are challenged by what appear to be completely new varieties of criminal action. This in turn needs the implementation of different substantive criminal legislation (Siegel, 2008). Other States are faced with "old wine in new bottles," For instance, the use of the Internet technology to enable the directive of long existing offenses such as fraud. This vagueness can produce misperception and delay among state legislators. Further, the complexity of the issue at hand, in that most of the criminal activity encountered in the real world unlike the types of illegitimate actions that transpire in cyberspace can be quite difficult and therefore present untrustworthy among lawmakers at both the state and federal level (Schmalleger, 2012). While one can validate the loopholes that presently exist in state cybercrime legislation, this situation should not continue particularly in a nation that takes pride in its technological progressi on. Breaches in the law, particularly in the law related to cybercrimes-benefits individuals who are involved in socially intolerable behavior at the expense of innocent people. Though it is an intolerable state of affairs, the effects of this failure to legislate can be predominantly be egregious in dealing with the cyber crime in the world in which persons can be ill-treated by people whom they have not met (Schmalleger, 2012). One feature of the cyber world is the ability to guard themselves from the frequently imaginative plunders of online criminals. Eventually, the implementation of applicable cybercrime legislation is a step taken towards identifying that cybercrimes characterize a different phenomenon in unlawful action such as the globalization of the conduct of criminals. In addition, the globalization of criminal conduct is a phenomenon, which all jurisdictions - national as well as sub-national - must combine to combat in order to handle the delicate issue of cyber crime . 2. Is it true that the only way to secure freedom is to curtail it during times of national crisis, such as free speech, right to privacy, etc? Why or why not? In America, freedom of speech is a cherished fundamental right. It is protected by the fourth amendment in the U.S constitution. However, in some cases this right can be withheld. This case include Incitement to crime, fighting words that might in themselves cause the hearer to breach peace since they are seen as a threat to the individual security and can easily cause violence (Jacques & Wright, 2010). The right to free speech faces the strongest challenges during times of crisis. In