Why Tough Teachers Get Good Results

I had a teacher once who called his students â€Å"idiots† when they screwed up. He was our orchestra conductor, a fierce Ukrainian immigrant named Jerry Kupchynsky, and when someone played out of tune, he would stop the entire group to yell, â€Å"Who eez deaf in first violins!? † He made us rehearse until our fingers almost bled. He corrected our wayward hands and arms by poking at us with a pencil. Today, he'd be fired.But when he died a few years ago, he was celebrated: Forty years' worth of ormer students and colleagues flew back to my New Jersey hometown from every corner of the country, old instruments in tow, to play a concert in his memory. I was among them, toting my long-neglected viola. When the curtain rose on our concert that day, we had formed a symphony orchestra the size of the New York Philharmonic. I was stunned by the outpouring for the gruff old teacher we knew as Mr. K. But I was equally struck by the success of his former students.Some were musici ans, but most had distinguished themselves in other fields, like law, academia and medicine. Research tells us that there is a positive correlation between music education and academic achievement. But that alone didn't explain the belated surge of gratitude for a teacher who basically tortured us through adolescence. We're in the midst of a national wave of self-recrimination over the U. S. education system. Every day there is hand-wringing over our students falling behind the rest of the world. Fifteen-year-olds in the U. S. rail students in 12 other nations in science and 17 in math, bested by their counterparts not Just in Asia but in Finland, Estonia and the Netherlands, too. An entire industry of books and consultants has grown up that capitalizes on our collective fear that American education is inadequate and asks what American educators are doing wrong. I would ask a different question. What did Mr. K do right? What can we learn from a teacher whose methods fly in the face of everything we think we know about education today, but who was undeniably effective? As it turns out, quite a lot.Comparing Mr. K's methods with the latest findings in fields from music to math to medicine leads to a single, startling conclusion: It's time to revive old-fashioned education. Not Just traditional but old-fashioned in the sense that so many of us knew as kids, with strict discipline and unyielding demands. complain if a teacher called my kids names. But the latest evidence backs up my modest proposal. Studies have now shown, among other things, the benefits of moderate childhood stress; how praise kills kids' self-esteem; and why grit is a better predictor of success than SAT scores.All of which flies in the face of the kinder, gentler philosophy that has dominated American education over the past few decades. The conventional wisdom holds that teachers are supposed to tease nowledge out of students, rather than pound it into their heads. Projects and collaborative learning are applauded; traditional methods like lecturing and memorization†derided as â€Å"drill and kill†Ã¢â‚¬ are frowned upon, dismissed as a surefire way to suck young minds dry of creativity and motivation. But the conventional wisdom is wrong.And the following eight principles†a manifesto if you will, a battle cry inspired by my old teacher and buttressed by new research†explain why. 1. A little pain is good for you. Psychologist K. Anders Ericsson gained fame for his research showing that true xpertise requires about 10,000 hours of practice, a notion popularized by Malcolm Gladwell in his book â€Å"Outliers. † But an often-overlooked finding from the same study is equally important: True expertise requires teachers who give â€Å"constructive, even painful, feedback,† as Dr.Ericsson put it in a 2007 Harvard Business Review article. He assessed research on top performers in fields ranging from violin performance to surgery to compute r programming to chess. And he found that all of them â€Å"deliberately picked unsentimental coaches who would challenge them and drive them to higher levels of performance. † 2. Drill, baby, drill. Rote learning, long discredited, is now recognized as one reason that children whose families come from India (where memorization is still prized) are creaming their peers in the National Spelling Bee Championship.This cultural difference also helps to explain why students in China (and Chinese families in the U. S. ) are better at math. Meanwhile, American students struggle with complex math problems because, as research makes abundantly clear, they lack fluency in basic addition and subtraction†and few of them were made to memorize their times tables. William Klemm of Texas A;M University argues that the U. S. needs to reverse the bias gainst memorization. Even the U. S.Department of Education raised alarm bells, chastising American schools in a 2008 report that bemoaned the lack of math fluency (a notion it mentioned no fewer than 17 times). It concluded that schools need to embrace the dreaded â€Å"drill and practice. † 3. Failure is an option. Kids who understand that failure is a necessary aspect of learning actually perform better. In a 2012 study, 111 French sixth-graders were given anagram problems that were too difficult for them to solve. One group was then told that failure and trying again are part of the learning process.On subsequent tests, those children onsistently outperformed their peers. The fear, of course is that failure will Bowling Green State University graduate student followed 31 Ohio band students who were required to audition for placement and found that even students who placed lowest â€Å"did not decrease in their motivation and self-esteem in the long term. † The study concluded that educators need â€Å"not be as concerned about the negative effects† of picking winners and losers. 4. Strict is be tter than nice. What makes a teacher successful?To find out, starting in 2005 a team of researchers led by Claremont Graduate University education professor Mary Poplin spent five ears observing 31 of the most highly effective teachers (measured by student test scores) in the worst schools of Los Angeles, in neighborhoods like South Central and Watts. Their No. 1 finding: â€Å"They were strict,† she says. â€Å"None of us expected that. † The researchers had assumed that the most effective teachers would lead students to knowledge through collaborative learning and discussion. Instead, they found disciplinarians who relied on traditional methods of explicit instruction, like lectures. The core belief of these teachers was, ‘Every student in my room is underperforming ased on their potential, and it's my Job to do something about it†and I can do something about it,'† says Prof. Poplin. She reported her findings in a lengthy academic paper.But she says that a fourth-grader summarized her conclusions much more succinctly this way: â€Å"When I was in first grade and second grade and third grade, when I cried my teachers coddled me. When I got to Mrs. T's room, she told me to suck it up and get to work. I think she's right. I need to work harder. 5. Creativity can be learned. The rap on traditional education is that it kills children's' creativity. But Temple University psychology professor Robert W. Weisberg's research suggests Just the opposite. Prof. Weisberg has studied creative geniuses including Thomas Edison, Frank Lloyd Wright and Picasso†and has concluded that there is no such thing as a born genius. Most creative giants work ferociously hard and, through a series of incremental steps, achieve things that appear (to the outside world) like epiphanies and breakthroughs. Prof.Weisberg analyzed Picasso's 1937 masterpiece Guernica, for instance, which was painted after the Spanish city was bombed by the Germans. The pai nting is considered a fresh and original concept, but Prof. Weisberg found instead hat it was closely related to several of Picasso's earlier works and drew upon his study of paintings by Goya and then-prevalent Communist Party imagery. The bottom line, Prof. Weisberg told me, is that creativity goes back in many ways to the basics. â€Å"You have to immerse yourself in a discipline before you create in that discipline.It is built on a foundation of learning the discipline, which is what your music teacher was requiring of you. † 6. Grit trumps talent. In recent years, University of Pennsylvania psychology professor Angela Duckworth has studied spelling bee champs, IVO' League undergrads and cadets at the U. S. Military Academy in West Point, N. Y. †all together, over 2,800 subjects. In all of them, she found that grit†defined as passion and perseverance for long-term goals†is the correlated with talent. Close Arthur Montzka Tough on the podium, Mr. Kwas alw ays appreciative when he sat in the audience.Above, applauding his students in the mid-1970s. Prof. Duckworth, who started her career as a public school math teacher and Just won a 2013 MacArthur â€Å"genius grant,† developed a â€Å"Grit Scale† that asks people to rate themselves on a dozen statements, like â€Å"l finish whatever I begin† and â€Å"l become interested in new pursuits very few months. † When she applied the scale to incoming West Point cadets, she found that those who scored higher were less likely to drop out of the school's notoriously brutal summer boot camp known as â€Å"Beast Barracks. West Point's own measure†an index that includes SAT scores, class rank, leadership and physical aptitude†wasn't able to predict retention. Prof. Duckworth believes that grit can be taught. One surprisingly simple factor, she says, is optimism†the belief among both teachers and students that they have the ability to change and thus to improve. In a 009 study of newly minted teachers, she rated each for optimism (as measured by a questionnaire) before the school year began. At the end of the year, the students whose teachers were optimists had made greater academic gains. 7.Praise makes you weak†¦ My old teacher Mr. K seldom praised us. His highest compliment was â€Å"not bad. † It turns out he was onto something. Stanford psychology professor Carol Dweck has found that 10-year-olds praised for being â€Å"smart† became less confident. But kids told that they were â€Å"hard workers† became more confident and better performers. The whole point of intelligence praise is to boost confidence and motivation, but both were gone in a flash,† wrote Prof. Dweck in a 2007 article in the Journal Educational Leadership. â€Å"If success meant they were smart, then struggling meant they were not. 8†¦. while stress makes you strong. A 2011 University at Buffalo study found that a mode rate amount of stress in childhood promotes resilience. Psychology professor Mark D. Seery gave healthy undergraduates a stress assessment based on their exposure to 37 different kinds of significant negative events, such as death or illness of a family member. Then he plunged their hands into ice water.The students who had experienced a moderate number of stressful events actually felt less pain than those who had experienced no stress at all. Having this history of dealing with these negative things leads people to be more likely to have a propensity for general resilience,† Prof. Seery told me. â€Å"They are better equipped to deal with even mundane, everyday stressors. † Prof. Seery's findings build on research by University of Nebraska psychologist Richard Dienstbier, who pioneered the concept of â€Å"toughness†Ã¢â‚¬ the idea that dealing with even routine hings, like having a hardass kind of teacher,† Prof. Seery says. My tough old teacher Mr. K co uld have written the book on any one of these principles.Admittedly, individually, these are forbidding precepts: cold, unyielding, and kind of scary. But collectively, they convey something very different: confidence. At their core is the belief, the faith really, in students' ability to do better. There is something to be said about a teacher who is demanding and tough not because he thinks students will never learn but because he is so absolutely certain that they will. Decades later, Mr. K's former students finally figured it out, too. â€Å"He taught us discipline,† explained a violinist who went on to become an League-trained doctor. Self-motivation,† added a tech executive who once played the cello. â€Å"Resilience,† said a professional cellist. â€Å"He taught us how to fail†and how to pick ourselves up again. † Clearly, Mr. K's methods aren't for everyone. But you can't argue with his results. And that's a lesson we can all learn from. Ms. Lipman is co-author, with Melanie Kupchynsky, of â€Å"Strings Attached: One Tough Teacher and the Gift of Great Expectations,† to be published by Hyperion on Oct. 1. She is a former deputy managing editor of The Wall Street Journal and former editor-in-chief of Cond © Nast Portfolio.A version of this article appeared September 28, 2013, on page Cl in the U. S. edition of The Wall Street Journal, with the headline: Tough Teachers Get Results. Copyright 2012 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved This copy is for your personal, non-commercial use only. Distribution and use of this material are governed by our Subscriber Agreement and by copyright law. For non-personal use or to order multiple copies, please contact.

The Messenger Eulogy

I Father O’reilly am privileged to have gathered amongst you all today, to give another perspective of a man who was not â€Å"just Ed†. He never gave himself great value but in my eyes he was a saint walking among us. I will never forget the moments and favours that Ed has shared with me. Ed, as many would say was a useless cab driver but in truth, I would say he was more of an inspiration and certainly it was an honour to have met this young gentleman. I still remember the day when I first met Ed. It was just a usual lonely night, when this young man showed up at my doorstep.I must say my first impressions of Ed were certainly very unique. Firstly the state of his jacket and not to mention the fact that he put four sugars in his coffee which made me slightly concerned. I never really got to ask Ed what he thought of me, I sort of knew he considered me a bit different to the rest especially being a priest and talking the way I do. There was that something about Ed whic h made him very special, I don’t know whether it was his innocent face or just the way he spoke but it seemed as if he had a passion to make things right in life.Words cannot describe how appreciative I am to this young boy, he has provided me a new perspective on how to live life. Ed visited me on a couple of occasions sometimes with his two friends Audrey and Marv. It didn’t take him long to realise that there weren’t many people who would visit my church. Ed took this matter into his own hands and it seemed as if he was determined to find a way to fix my problem. It was only a couple of days after visiting me on Sunday when Ed came barging through the front door with an idea on how to get people into my church.I must say I was shocked when I first heard the idea providing free beer in the church. I still remember the first thing I said to Ed was that I don’t have the money to cover the costs of such an aactivity. Ed ironically said to me â€Å"just ha ve a little faith† and walked away. I wondered at this point as to why he is doing so much for me when I barely even knew him from a bar of soap. There was certainly something which was pushing Ed to do all this for me but I never tried to interfere with his reasons. The next time I met Ed was on the day of the party at the church.I don’t know how many faces Ed has put a smile to, but one thing I can say for sure is that the happiness I achieved from that one day alone was something I doubt will ever come along in my life again. The number of people I saw in my church that day was never to be seen before, although the most important moment for me was when I reunited with the one man who I was longing to talk to. If I had the chance to change one thing with Ed, then that would be letting him know how grateful I am of all he has done for me. Besides what Ed has done for me, I have also heard about what he has done for others.The one I have heard about the most is the ice cream he bought for a lonely mother. It is certainly great to see that there are still people out there who are willing to go out of their way to help others. From the bottom of my heart I again would like to thank you for everything you have done for me Ed. Others may call you average, ordinary or even useless but to me you will always remain a saint. I still don’t know what your motivation was behind all that you have done for me Ed, but all I will say is that may there be more men like you in this world. May your soul rest in peace, god bless.

Historical and Contemporary Perspectives of Aging in the Work Place Research Paper

Historical and Contemporary Perspectives of Aging in the Work Place - Research Paper Example Such classifications also tend to associate individuals of the same groups with particular characteristics ranging from physical to social characteristics. This inherently leads to different perspectives held by the society concerning aging; and is particularly inherent in the workforce. Individuals of different ages are perceived differently in the workforce and the perceptions significantly vary across history, with the historical perspective of aging differing from the contemporary perspectives (Armstrong-Stassen & Schlosser, 2011). The United Nations indicated that the world’s elderly population exhibits the fastest growth rate ever. The projections indicated that by the year 2050, more than two billion people will be aged 60 and over (Brooke, Taylor, Mcloughlin & Biase, 2012). The aging populations particularly in the workforce have been described by terms such as ‘old age tsunami’ and ‘demographic time bomb’. The apocalyptic language indicates that historically, the elderly population has been small compared to the contemporary society. Those who are 60 and above are hugely talented, have the relevant experience as well as the necessary skills and knowledge. The most likely challenge that will arise in the future will, therefore, be how to maintain and capitalize on the potentiality of this age group without disposing them away in retirement. This has seen efforts by countries such as Germany and France to increase the retirement age to 62 from 60 by 2018 (Brooke, Taylor, Mcl oughlin & Biase, 2012). Historically, the elderly in the workforce have been largely subjected to voluntary or forceful retirement and entrenchment. This was in effort to accommodate the growing youth populations with better talents, skills and knowledge and who have undergone better training and educational courses. In the contemporary society, the then youthful population is now increasingly making up the elderly population. With their essential capacities, the

Malpractice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Malpractice - Essay Example Legal issues governing the medical malpractice law already way out of the field of health care and one has to have a good legal counsel to prove the actions made to be acted upon good faith under the scope of health care profession. Malpractice: Failure to assess and document Introduction: The world has evolved into a large pit of legalities, where every action has a legal implication if done mischievously. This in turn as a person have reinforced the right to the best health care possible but as a health care professional emotions are wired not because of fear that the author will personally be mitigated upon but the author speaks for the rest of the nursing professionals who understand that biologically speaking some things may get out of people’s hands and worst out of people’s understanding. But legality tells it otherwise that every person is held legally accountable despite clarity of one’s conscience and the ability to pay legal proceedings, for the sake o f legality and the truth legal proceeding is a must and health care professionals are required to maintain professional liability insurance to offset the risk and costs of lawsuits based brought by litigations of medical malpractice. ... Medical malpractice is professional negligence by act or omission by a health care provider in which care provided deviates from accepted standards of practice in the medical community and causes injury or death to the patient. Standards and regulations for medical malpractice vary by country and jurisdiction within countries (HG Global legal Resources, 2012). According to Nurses Service Organization, medical malpractice claims can be asserted against healthcare providers including nurses. Although there may be a perception that physicians are held responsible for the majority of lawsuits, the reality is that nurses are more frequently finding themselves defending the care they provide to patients. Moreover over $83 Million was paid for malpractice claims involving nursing professionals according to the most recent study (Nurses Service Organization 2012). Case Study: Failure to assess and document The case that will be tackled in this paper involves the very basic of all nursing pro cedures which is to assess patient condition before and after any procedure and to properly document any reaction even if nothing happened. Documentation is very important for the nursing profession; it does not only details the kind of nursing care and procedures done to every patient but in cases of legal proceedings the documentation will tell and not only back nurses up but to prove otherwise with what was done for the patient. This is a case of a 23 woman who presented in the emergency of a local hospital with persistent flu like symptoms—generalized body ache and fever for the past two weeks. An abnormal CT scan of the chest prompted for admission—near

The Great War Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

The Great War - Essay Example It was also the very effective British propaganda that developed public support in US for the allied forces (Carlisle, 2007-, p.194). Meanwhile, the telegram sent by the foreign minister of Germany, Arthur Zimmerman, to German minister in Mexico, indicating that there is a possibility of Germany engaging in a war with the US got leaked by the British and this information naturally provoked the US (Carlisle, 2007, p.194). Many US ships being destroyed by the submarine warfare of the Germans by this time was another reason why public and political pressure mounted on the US government to be a party in the war (Carlisle, 2007, p.194). Yet another reason for the US entering the war was the close financial connection between the US and the Britain (Keene, 2006 p.8). America had given â€Å"huge loans† to Britain and other allied forces and thus big money was at stake (Keene, 2006, p.5). Britain and France reacted to the American decision by asking for replenishment with fresh American fighters of their war-wearied troups in the war front (Keene, \2006, p.11). But the US did not concede to this demand of splittin g the American forces and merging them with the British and French troupes (Keene, 2006,

Budget Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Budget Analysis - Essay Example Budget analysis Determination of Goals and objectives of the City It is very important to determine and consider the goals and objectives of the City Council of the Ypsilanti in the initial stage of preparing the council’s budget. Knowing the goals and objectives will help me as the budget officer understand and draw appropriate boundaries that reflect mission and annual goals of the organization1. Goals and objectives of the council will work as benchmark that guide me in staying within the limits of the council’s expectations of growth and development. Determination of Expenditure As the budget officer of the City of Ypsilanti, I will make thorough and critical consideration of the current expenditures incurred to help me in structuring and estimating the scope of expenditure likely to be incurred during the next financial year. As the budget officer of Ypsilanti City I will determine the contemporary expenditure records of the city council on various areas of its ope ration. This will help me draw a budget forecast of the next financial year.2 I will basically make consultations with the accountant and financial officers in the council. This move will assist me in collecting all receipts and or any other testimonials that disclose any kind of expenditure incurred by the council. As in the case of this city that witnesses daily entrance and exit of 20, 000 university students, I will need to determine the average daily costs incurred by the City Council of Ypsilanti to host such visitors. In addition, I will need to determine the total expenditure incurred by the council in caring and managing the 35000 potential residents of the city. The outcome will be added to the previous expenditure on visitors to determine the total cost on human operations. These expenditures together with other operational costs shall be calculated with high level of diligence and accuracy. With forecasts on the possible changes in future, I will be able to draw a realis tic budget for the city council3. Determination of Income For the budget administrator to draw a convincing and propelling budget that will attract the attention and recognition of the council legislators, he/she should indicate the possible incomes expected and their possible sources. I recognize that determination of income and their sources is a crucial stage that requires utmost diligence to convince the legislature to pass the budget. 4Indicating sources of income will make the budget of the City Council of Ypsilanti appear realistic and convenient. This will likely attract good participation and speculation of the legislators. As the budget manager in this city, I have decided that the city authority raise the gas tax to 51% and also raise vehicles registration fees to 57% in order to avail funds for repairing the road systems in this city. Other sources of required funds for the roads maintenance will also be gathered from 33% tax increase in the mileage travelled by vehicles operating within the city. Ensuring balance The next and probably sensitive point in preparing the budget of the city council is achieving a balance between the expenditure and the expected income. I understand that council legislatures will not approve any budget viewed to cause big deficit above the financing

The Acute Pain on the Chest during Angina Essay

The Acute Pain on the Chest during Angina - Essay Example This essay is, therefore, going to elaborate on the nursing problems in Mrs. Brown’s case as well as the nursing interventions for each problem illustrated (Anderson 2007). The patient’s first problem is the acute pain in the chest which she rates it at a scale of 9/10. This problem relates to the patient since the symptoms that the patient narrates are the characteristics of Angina. The patient points out that she is sweaty and that she feels an extreme pain in the chest which feels like someone was squeezing out on her chest. The patient’s history of hypertension implies that she has a problem with the circulation of blood in her body due to the narrowing of the airways. The two main priority interventions for this problem are the administering of nitroglycerin to the patient to relieve the acute pain and encouraging deep breathing and coughing exercises (Johnson 2008). Before embarking on any intervention, a nurse should be able to establish the history of the patient in order to match the patient’s condition with the symptoms that she depicts. This will help the nurse in making the right diagnosis for the patient. The baseline i nformation that was obtained by the nurse in the case of Mrs. Brown will include the weight, blood pressure, pulse rate and respiration rate. This information helped the nurse to come to a conclusion that Mrs. Brown really suffered from Angina and Hypertension (Ang, et al., 2009). Cameron (2011) points out that when the patient is administered with a dose of nitroglycerin, the action of this medicine will help to dilate the coronary arteries and instantly increase the venous pooling consequently reducing the rate at which oxygen is used in the body as well as the myocardial preload. The pain that is experienced by Mrs. Rose is due to the lack of enough oxygen supply to the heart making her have a feeling of squeezing in the heart.   This drug will help in the redistribution of blood to the area of the heart muscle (Blackwood 2009). The administering of the drug should be started in the ED sublingually or by using a spray after every five minutes for three doses.

Organisational creativity enterpreneurship and innovation Essay

Organisational creativity enterpreneurship and innovation - Essay Example management attitudes, values and climate)† (Pauline, n.d, P. 1). Company A primarily functions as a drug testing research centre, therefore, the business requires scientific approach. There has been an increased competition in the last two years in this industry and, thus, if creativity and innovation is not adopted at the appropriate time then the competitors will surpass company A. Creativity and innovation in Company A is governed by some factors, which are mainly, a vision to create new products and services in order to capture new markets, adopting a systematic process in order to boost creativity, focusing on the present customer needs as well as future demands. Innovation is based on strong leadership skill in company A. â€Å"Reward and recognition system for teams that take measured risks and experiment† (Creativity and Innovation in Business, 2011, P. 35). Creativity and innovation in company A is needed in order to generate new ideas, which is very important f or surviving competition and pushing the business over new boundaries. â€Å"The focus of group creativity research has been on comparing the group ideation process with individual ideation† (Thompson, et al. 2006, P. 75). ... â€Å"For example, using ratings by employees of the overall innovation of their own R&D laboratories, Paolillo and Brown (1978) found positive cor- relations for innovation with autonomy, information flow, creativity, re- wards, and training† (Richard, et al. n.d, P.14). Therefore, Company A has transformed itself from a small enterprise consisting of six employees to an organization which has been taken over by Quotient Bio research Ltd and has a turnover of more than 10 million pounds and is now, a part of the World doping agency. 2 How can creativity and innovation be stimulated, supported and sustained: If the organizations have to step up to the mark of organizational revolutions happening in the 21st century, the only thing that can help in serving the purpose is facilitating creativity and innovation. For simulating, supporting and sustaining the organizational creativity and innovation and entrepreneurship, the main role is assigned to leadership and human resource ma nagement and development section. But the current system lacks such efficient ideas needed for promotion. Researching from the psychological perceptive, emphasizing on individual characteristics, cognitive and social processes, we can define creativity as the generation of original and useful ideas. On the other hand, innovation is the exploitation of the creative ideas, from sociological, economical and organizational perspectives. There are many theories supporting creativity, some of which are: Psychodynamic theory: This approach refers to the ideas arising from unconscious thoughts of individuals and later relating to conscious matters by various processes. According to physiologist Sigmund Freud, creativity arises from tension

Contracts for Healthcare Executives Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Contracts for Healthcare Executives - Assignment Example However, under a system of Universal Healthcare, the burden is lifted and taken care of by the government. There is an ensuing debate of whether or not America should adopt such a system. The arguments for both sides are overwhelming and at times can be tough to understand. Avant Healthcare Professionals provide leading specialists with internationally educated nursing and health professionals. By collaborating with international health care professionals with their client facilities, the organization is building steps towards a new future in order to achieve their mutual goal. By providing highly skilled and internationally trained healthcare professionals, the organization provides the ultimate ‘international’ solution to the Healthcare staffing shortage. http://www.avanthealthcare.com/ When it comes to marketing their peer-to-peer channel has enthused in the agency’s strategic intelligence and the business plan, and measurement tools are now as fundamental as their medical insight and creative aptitude. (http://www.avanthealthcaremarketing.com) With constantly changing healthcare systems, the year 2010 is forecasted as being ‘the year of the consumer’. A need to transform health plans into retail plans – but with a health care point of view – has suddenly arisen as the market shifts away from the traditional wholesale orientation. Thus, consumer level brand equity has never been more important – company’s need to focus on developing innovative products, attracting members, and advance their brands in a revolutionary way; considering, in particular, market alteration and cost plans constraints today. The prospects that stand out to leverage brand loyalty with its customers start off from real-time experimentations.  

Competition in Energy Drinks Essay Example for Free

Competition in Energy Drinks Essay 1. What are the strategically relevant components of the global and U. S. beverage industry macro-environment? How do the economic characteristics of the alternative beverage segment of the industry differ from that of other beverage categories? Explain. The strategically relevant components of the global and U. S. beverage industry macro-environment are essentially the expansion of the market for alternative beverages by introducing energy drinks, sports drinks, and vitamin drinks in international markets, and increasing the market size of alternative beverages by extending current product lines and developing new products. Numerous factors affect the achievement of this strategy and they include: Size of the Market: It is without question that the global beverage industry is a large one, with the dollar value of the market being $1581. 7 billion in 2009 and volume sales (in billions of liters) being $458. 30. Regarding the distribution of sales in regards to beverage type, carbonated soft drinks came on top with 12,919. 3 (millions of gallons) being sold and leading to a market share of 48. 2%. Next in volume of sales was bottled water with a sales volume of 8,435. 3 and 29. 2% market share. Fruit beverage sales were 3,579. 2 and a market share of 12. 4%. In the alternative beverage category, sports drinks sales were 1,157. 8 and a market share of 4%, ready-to-drink tea sales were 901. 4 with a market share of 3. 1%, flavored or enhanced water sales were 460 with a market share of 1. 6%, energy drink sales volumes were 354. 5 with a market share of 1. 2%, and ready-to-drink coffee sales volume was 51. 5 with a market share of 0. 2%. In 2009, the industry worldwide sales of alternative beverages were 40. 2 billion, with sales in the US accounting for 42. 3% of the sales. Asia-Pacific accounted for 31. 5%, Europe 22. 2%, and the Americas (excluding the US) 4%. Growth Rate: There has been a steady growth in the value of the global beverage industry over the years. Between the years 2005 and 2009, there has been a constant increase in the dollar value of sales, and this increase has also been forecasted between the years 2010 and 2014. Regarding the alternate beverages, we see an increase in sales over the years that even surpasses that of the global beverage industry. Market Segmentation: The market for global alternative drinks has been in existence for a while, and beverages have been chosen and selected into groups based on the type of products. The different groups include sports drinks, energy drinks, vitamin-enhanced beverages, and relaxation drinks, with comfort and relaxation been of utmost importance to the consumer. In 2009, the alternative beverage drink with the most sales was sports drinks with sales of nearly 60%. Vitamin enhanced followed in sales by 23% and energy drinks came closely behind with sales of18% during that same year. Scope of Competition: The major worldwide producers of beverages are Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Red Bull. There are also smaller companies in the same industry, by their production do not compare to the three major companies. Among the most important competitive features of the alternative beverage industry include product innovation, efficient distribution systems, and distinct differentiation. 2. What is competition like in the alternative beverage industry? Which of the five competitive forces is strongest? Which is weakest? What competitive forces seem to have the greatest effect on industry attractiveness and the potential profitability of new entrants? Competition in the alternative beverage industry is in favor of the three major producers, especially Coca-Cola and PepsiCo. Since their alternative beverage product offerings are numerous, and they supply to grocery stores, convenience stores etc. who have a high demand for their products, they avoid vulnerability to buyer leverage and always have shelve space in these channels. Of the five competitive forces, the intensity of competitive rivalry among the sellers of alternative beverages is the strongest. Bargaining power and buyer leverage are also among the strongest. Individuals who purchased the alternative beverages for convenience stores, grocery stores and wholesale clubs have the advantage of negotiating prices with the producers of the alternative beverages because of the fact that they are purchasing such large quantities of the products. Even though the majority of energy drinks were purchased in convenience stores, sports drinks and vitamin-enhanced beverages were also available in most delis and restaurants and were also sometimes sold at sporting events and in vending machines. The weakest competitive force in the alternative beverage industry appears to be the bargaining power and leverage of sellers. Due to the fact that there are many suppliers in this niche, the competition is quite intense it becomes important to have features such as ingredients, more attractive packaging etc.to differentiate them from other brands. The competitive force that seems to have the greatest effect on industry attractiveness and potential profitability of new entrants is the threat of new competition. Since the alternative beverage industry is a very lucrative one and tends to carry high price points, this profitability becomes very attractive to new entrants because of the possibility of being able to achieve success in the industry. 3. How is the market for energy drinks, sports drinks and vitamin-enhanced beverages changing? What are the underlying drivers of change and how might those forces individually or collectively make the industry more or less attractive? The market for energy drinks, sports drinks and vitamin-enhanced beverages has changed a lot over the years and will continue to see changes well into the future. The underlying drivers of change include changes in growth rate (decrease) and innovation. Worldwide dollar sales of alternative beverages grew by more that 13% annually between the year 2005 and 2007, however, it slowed down to about 6% between 2007 and 2009. One might argue that the reason for this decline is the impact the ongoing recession has on the beverage industry. Beverage producers continue to maintain their optimism for the industry regarding future prospects that will be brought to fruition by innovation in brands, flavors, and formulations. These are the facets that they believe will support their premium pricing and volume increases. 4. What does your strategic group map of the energy drink, sports drink, and vitamin-enhanced beverage industry look like? Which strategic groups do you think are in the best positions? The worst positions? The strategic group map shows the leading alternative drink producers competing both geographically and in regards to variety of drinks offered, there are therefore the strategic groups in the best positions. The alternative drink companies are not only competing domestically, but in an international scale as well. Hansen Natural, the producers of Monster energy drink, who splits distribution of it’s energy drinks between Anheuser-Busch and Coca-Cola is not only successful in the United States, but in Great Britain, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and Monaco. The company has also entered agreements to have its beverages available in Mexico and Australia. In a similar fashion, Rockstar has been able to venture internationally by having its products distributed by PepsiCo in foreign countries. The countries Rockstar is currently being distributed are Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, Finland, Spin, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. In a similar fashion as the aforementioned alternative drink producers, Red Bull also has a brand presence both domestically and internationally, specifically in Europe and the Americas. The strategic groups in the worst positions appear to be those companies with a single brand e. g. , ViB, Dream Water, etc. operating solely domestically. With the amount of competition in the market currently, it does not appear that these company will fare well in the long-term. 5. What key factors determine the success of alternative beverage producers? There are three key factors that determine the success of alternative beverage producers and they include: Access to distribution In order for the alternative beverages to achieve the sales volumes that its producer desires, it first has to be widely available in stores on a consistent basis. With brand popularity comes the advantage of having a product readily available on store shelves. Innovation With competition being as tight as it is in the alternative beverage industry, innovation is of utmost importance because it sets a product or a company aside for its competitors. Innovation can be achieved by entering into different product lines or creating completely different categories of alternative beverages. Brand image A company’s image is very important when it pertains to competing in whatever industry it does business in. Choosing the right image to portray in advertisement, marketing, etc. could possibly be what retains customer loyalty, or sways a customer’s decision to purchase their product over that of a rival. 6. What recommendations would you make to Coca-Cola to improve its competitiveness in the global alternative beverage industry? To PepsiCo? To Red Bull GmbH? Since it is apparent that Coca-Cola is growing at a much slower pace that its competitors in the alternative beverage market, I recommend that it take building brand image and continual innovation and new product development into consideration. Portraying the right image in advertisement and marketing could lead to retention in customer loyalty and regaining lost market share. Since PepsiCo is ranked number one worldwide for the sale of alternative beverages, with it’s best-selling alternative beverages including Gatorade, which held a 75% share of it’s 1. 57 billion US sports drink market, Propel, SoBe Lifewater, Amp Energy drinks, and No Fear energy drinks, I would recommend that the company continue to build upon this ranking by taking the necessary steps to boost their brand image. I would also recommend that PepsiCo include energy shots to it’s product line-up to further boost sales. There is no doubt that Red Bull GmbH has found its niche in the alternative beverage market as the world’s number one seller of energy drinks, making it the third-largest producer of alternative beverages worldwide and the number two seller of alternative beverages in the US and Europe. To continue it’s growth in the US and Europe, I will recommend that the company continue to innovate and develop new products. I will also recommend that in order to further solidify the Red Bull brand, they should venture into production of he other types of alternative beverages. References Gamble, J. (2008). Competition in Energy Drinks, Sports Drinks, and Vitamin-Enhanced Beverages. Boston: Harvard Business Publishing.

Smoking During Pregnancy Health Concern

Smoking During Pregnancy Health Concern Erin Chaplin – Term Project Assignment #1 Topic: Tobacco Use  State: Iowa Objective: TU-6 -TU-6 Increase smoking cessation during pregnancy Increase smoking cessation during pregnancy Introduction Maternal smoking during pregnancy is a key public health concern in the United States. There are few instances in which environment has such a large effect on development as during pregnancy, which is considered a critical period.2 Prenatal factors have a large influence on a baby’s growth and development, and can lead to health consequences that affect them for their whole lives.2 Many women still smoke during pregnancy, despite it being well known that it puts the baby at risk of many health problems. There is a significant amount of scientific research proving the adverse effects of smoking during pregnancy, and pregnant women are discouraged from smoking while pregnant.2 However, it is reported that as many as 14% of pregnant women in the US continue smoking during pregnancy.1 Smoking during pregnancy remains the most common cause of infant illness and death, even though effective cessation methods exist.3 Public health is working toward trying to decrease the prevalence of smoking during pregnancy, but historical progress has been slow.3 Implications The period of infant development during pregnancy has arguably the most profound influence on a person’s long term health and quality of life.2 Smoking during pregnancy can negatively influence growth and development to such an extent as to determine future health and behavior of the child.2 There is plenty of evidence proving that the effects of smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of pregnancy complications such as fetal death (spontaneous abortion), fetal growth restriction (reduced birth weight), placental complications, and premature delivery.1,2,3 Smoking also increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) after birth.3 â€Å"In 2002, 5%–8% of preterm deliveries, 13%–19% of term infants with growth restriction, 5%–7% of preterm-related deaths, and 23%–34% of deaths from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) were attributable to prenatal smoking in the United States.† 3 Children of mothers who smoked during pregnancy also have increased risk for disease, health problems, and behavioral/ psychological issues later in life.2 There is evidence of a dose-response relationship, that increasing amount of cigarette usage is related to increased risk of defects and complications.1,2 It has been shown that nicotine crosses the placenta, and concentrations of nicotine in the baby can be as much as 15% higher than concentrations in the mother.2 There is also evidence that women who smoke during pregnancy have an increased risk of having a baby with two or more defects.1 There are a surprisingly large number of different physical birth defects that have been associated with significantly higher risk in women that smoke during pregnancy. There is a 9% increased risk associated with cardiovascular/heart birth defects.1 There is a 16% increased risk associated with musculoskeletal defects, such a limb reductions/underdevelopment.1 There is a 19% increased risk of facial defects, especially oral/facial clefts, with eye defects alone being greater than 25% increased risk.1 There is also increased risk of gastrointestinal defects and hernias.1 The most significant effects of smoking are seen in the occurrence and increased risk of limb reductions, club foot, oral clefts, eye defects, and hernias.1 There is not sufficient evidence to show an association between maternal smoking and defects of the genitourinary, respiratory, or central nervous systems, though it is possible that smoking may have some effect.1 (See Appendix B for Figure showing associations of specific defects with smoking) In the US there are approximately 120,000 babies born each year with a birth defect, which is 3% incidence per year.1 Smoking while pregnant has been proven to be associated with significantly increased risk for a variety of defects including cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, facial, and more.1 Many of these birth defects are quite serious, result in physical and psychological illness, require several painful and expensive surgical treatments throughout the infant’s lifetime, and may still result in a disability.1 In the US the estimated total expenditures for treating birth defects was approximately $2.1 billion in 2003.1 In 2004 approximately $122 million in healthcare costs for infants were attributed to maternal smoking.3 Thus it is a significant cost on the healthcare system for women to smoke while pregnant. Other studies have found behavioral and psychological associations between smoking during pregnancy and the child’s abilities later in life.2 One study suggests that maternal smoking negatively affects a child’s speech and language development.2 Another study found an association with decreased intelligence in the child at age 4.2 There are also several studies that suggest an association with increased externalizing disorders, such as conduct disorder and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorders (ADD/ADHD).2 Cognitive function has been shown to be adversely affected in through decreased attention span, response inhibition, memory, impulsivity, receptive language, verbal learning and design memory, problem solving, speech and language, school performance, and auditory processing.2 It is important to also keep in mind that secondhand smoke after birth also increases a baby or child’s risk for respiratory disease and infections, immune system problems like asthma and allergies, ear infections, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and cancer later in life.2,3 Trends Maternal smoking remains a common problem.2 It is reported that as many as 14% of pregnant women in the US continue smoking during pregnancy.1 For most states the prevalence of smoking hasn’t changed much over time; however from 2000 to 2010 smoking prevalence actually decreased in parts of the US.3 In a subgroup of ten states the prevalence of smoking during pregnancy decreased from 13.3% to 12.3%, and smoking after birth decreased from 18.6% to 17.2% over the 11 year period.3 Sites that showed a significant decrease in maternal smoking from 2000 to 2010 include Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, New York City, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.3 New York City achieved the highest annual percentage decrease.3 Unfortunately in Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, and West Virginia the prevalence of smoking during and after pregnancy actually increased over the time period.3 (See Figures on next page showing maternal smoking prevalence in US by time and location) In 2010 prevalence of smoking before pregnancy ranged from 9.2% in New York City to 46.2% in West Virginia, with an average of 23.2% of women that reported smoking during the 3 months before pregnancy.3 At the time only New York City and Utah had achieved the Healthy People 2020 goal of reducing prevalence of smoking during the 3 months before pregnancy to 14%. 3 Figure 1 from Source 3 Figure 2 from Source 3 In 2010 prevalence of smoking during pregnancy ranged from 2.3% in New York City to 30.5% in West Virginia, with an average of 10.7% of women that reported smoking during the last 3 months of pregnancy.3 At the time none of sites had yet achieved the Healthy People 2020 goal of reducing prenatal smoking prevalence to 1.4%.3 In 2010 the percentage of women that had smoked but quit before the last trimester had increased significantly, especially in Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, and New Jersey.3 Unfortunately in Louisiana the number of women quitting smoking while pregnant actually decreased.3 In 2010 the percentage of women that quit smoking while pregnant ranged from 34.3% in West Virginia to 74.6% in New York City, with an average of 54.3% of women that reported quitting smoking during pregnancy.3 All sites with data available had achieved the Healthy People 2020 goal of increasing smoking cessation during pregnancy to 30%.3 In 2010 the prevalence of smoking after birth had decreased significantly, it ranged from 4.1% in New York City to 37.5% in West Virginia, with an average of 15.9% of women that reported smoking 4 months after delivery.3 In Iowa, from 2007 to 2012 the trend overall has been an average of a 15% decrease in women that have smoked before and during pregnancy.4 Unfortunately, despite this downward trend, there still remain 15% of women in Iowa that smoke during their first trimester, and 12% of women that smoke throughout their entire pregnancy.4 Awareness is helping, and there is now 41% of women in Iowa that smoked before pregnancy but quit while pregnant.4 Disparities Prevalence of smoking during pregnancy varies widely depending on maternal age, ethnicity, education, and health insurance coverage.1,2,3 Priorities can be highlighted based on this demographic information. In the US on average 20% of women less than 25 years old smoke while pregnant, compared with only 9% of women 35 years or older.1 Also 22% of women with less than 12 years of education smoke while pregnant, compared with only 6.5% of women with greater than 12 years of education.1 Some studies have even suggested that the percentage of women under age 20 that are smoking while pregnant has increased.2 Based on the demographic information presented in the Table in Appendix A, groups that need the most assistance are identified. It is easy to see a trend that women age 20-24, that are American Indian/Alaska Native, had 12 or less years of education, and had Medicaid coverage (low income) were more likely to smoke before, during, and after pregnancy.3 Women that were less than 20 years old, Asian/Pacific Islander, had greater than 12 years of education, and had private insurance coverage were all more likely to quit during pregnancy.3 (See Appendix A for Table showing maternal characteristics in prevalence of prenatal smoking) Conclusion Smoking during pregnancy has been a continued problem within the US. Maternal smoking has been proven to increase risk for many birth defects.1 Educational information encouraging women to quit smoking before or during pregnancy needs to be stressed.1 Educational and policy efforts also need to be targeted especially toward women under age 24, with 12 or less years of school, in lower socioeconomic groups, because they are more likely to smoke while pregnant.1,3 Efforts to reduce prevalence have only been mildly successful.3 In 2010 none of the states with data available had achieved the goal of reducing prevalence of prenatal smoking to 1.4%.3 If trends continue at the current slow rate then it could take another 100 years to reach that goal.3 Current tobacco control efforts in most states are probably not adequate to be able to reach national goals in reducing the prevalence of smoking during pregnancy.3 Appendix A Table 2 from Source 3 Appendix B Figure 1 from Source 1- â€Å"Summary of the meta-analyses for maternal smoking in pregnancy and birth defects. The pooled ORs are shown for each body system and specific defects (total number of malformed cases in brackets). CI: confidence interval† 1 References Hackshaw A, Rodeck C, Boniface S. (2011) Maternal smoking in pregnancy and birth defects: a systematic review based on 173 687 malformed cases and 11.7 million controls. Human Reproduction Update 2011; 17:589–604. doi: 10.1093/humupd/dmr022; URL: http://humupd.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/2011/07/09/humupd.dmr022.full Knopik VS, Maccani MA, Francazio S, McGeary JE. (2012). The epigenetics of maternal cigarette smoking during pregnancy and effects on child development. Development and Psychopathology 2012; 24(4):1377-1390. doi: http://dx.doi.org.proxy.lib.uiowa.edu/10.1017/S0954579412000776. Tong VT, Dietz PM, Morrow B, D’Angelo DV, Farr SL, Rockhill KM, England LJ. (2013). Trends in Smoking Before, During, and After Pregnancy – Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System, United States, 40 Sites, 2000–2010. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) Surveillance Summaries 2013; 62(6):1-19. URL: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/pdf/ss/ss6206.pdf Muldoon, J. (2013) Percent of newborns exposed to maternal smoking, by county. IA Dept. Public Health: Vital Records and Bureau of Family Health, Div. Tobacco Use Prevention Control, IDPH; 2013. URL: http://www.idph.state.ia.us/IDPHChannelsService/file.ashx?file=787F5953-4D70-4563-A885-FCB2C9D3C185

Creatine and its Dangers Essay -- Athletics Health Essays

Creatine and its Dangers Creatine is a very controversial supplement on the market today. Many endorse the uses of creatine, but others are skeptical about the advantage a person receives from taking it and the dangers one inherits as a result of creatine consumption. The debate remains due to the short amount of time that creatine has been available. People base their opinions on preliminary studies that have been done but no one knows the long-term effects of creatine on the body. Many take the risk without vast knowledge, but others still remain skeptical based on preliminary evidence that discourages the intake of creatine. How Creatine Works Creatine is naturally produced in the body in the liver, pancreas, and kidneys. It can also be provided to the body through the consumption of fish and meat. (http://www.mothernature.com/ency/supp/creatine_monohydrate.asp) Creatine aids in the process of ATP which is energy used for quick, explosive activities such as the sports listed above. When ATP levels drop, muscles become fatigued. â€Å"Regeneration of ATP is essential if fatigue is to be delayed,† according to Charles P. Bolotte, MD. (http://www.lsms.org/journal/98creat.html) In theory, taking more creatine supplements allows for more creatine to be available to synthesize more ATP and therefore causes less fatigue in muscles. ATP is readily available energy for the body that is used in everyday activity. The synthesis of ATP is needed for all activities in the daily lives of people. It is used in the transmission of nerve signals, the movement of muscles, the synthesis of proteins, and cell division. Energy is released when one of the bonds between the end phosphate group is broken and the molecule becomes... ... only proven method for increasing physical shape and muscle mass is hard athletic training. Bibliography Ekblom, B. (1996). Effects of creatine supplementation on performance. American Journal of Sports Medicine, 24, 38-39. Juhn, M.S. & Tarnopolsky M. (1998). Potential side effects of oral creatine supplementation: a critical review. Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine, 8, 298-304. Stone, M.H. et al. (1999). Effects of in-season (5 weeks) creatine and pyruvate supplementation on anaerobic performance body composition in American football players. International Journal of Sport Nutrition, 9, 146-165. Vahedi, K. & Domigo, V. & Amarenco, P. & Bousser M.G. (2000). Ischaemic stroke in a sportsman who consumed Mahuang extract and creatine monohydrate for body-building. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry, 68, 112-113.

Options Trading Essay example -- essays research papers

Options and the Investor Most people know that an option is a choice. It is a choice to buy that new compact disc, a choice to upgrade to leather on a new car, or a choice to speculate in the market. Options are a way to reduce risk associated with trading stocks and are quite advantageous in a capitalist society. An option is a â€Å"contract between two parties to purchase or sell a commodity futures contract at a predetermined price within a specific time period. Every option transaction has an option buyer and an option seller (4, p. 236).† The advent of organized options trading by the Chicago Board Options Exchange created a new way to play the market. Options can be used to hedge risk and to take profits larger than would be possible by buying and selling stock. This result can be accomplished using a variety of combinations to be discussed later in this paper. These strategies can be useful as pertaining to the options trader who wants to make the most profit with the least amount of risk. Ele mentary pricing of options will help the reader in understanding some of the differences in premiums and why the differences are so large. The Chicago Board Options Exchange has changed the way that options are traded through advances in technology to the point that options are bought and sold instantaneously with almost a 100% guarantee of credibility. This is one of the main reasons for the options explosion. Options   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Basic options have existed for eons and have been used as investment strategies for thousands of years. The concept was definitely used by societies other than ours, as illustrated by this excerpt from Aristotle’s Politics (2, p. 16): There is an anecdote of Thales the Milesian and his financial device, which involves a principle of universal application, but is attributed to him on account of his reputation for wisdom. He was reproached for his poverty, which was supposed to show that philosophy was of no use. According to the story, he knew by his skill in the stars while it was yet winter that there would be a great harvest of olives in the coming year; so, having a little money, he gave deposits for the use of all the olive presses in Chios and Miletus, which he hired at a low price because no one bid against him. When the harvest time came, and many wanted them all at once and of a sudden, he let them out at any r... ...the secrets of trading options. It is shown in the pages preceding that using options to hedge investment risk, or using options alone can almost eliminate the chance to lose big when investing. The advent of organized options trading by the Chicago Board Options Exchange created a new way to play the market. Options can be used to hedge risk, and to take profits larger than would be possible by buying and selling stock. Accomplished strategists have done very well in the options market, because with an increased repertoire of investing strategies, the investor who balances risk with reward will have the most success trading options. References: 1. Kolb, Robert, Options; An Introduction, (Miami, FL: Kolb Publishing Co., 1991). 2. Gastineau, Gary, The Options Manual, 3rd Edition (New York, New York: McGraw-Hill   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Book Co., 1988). 3. Trester, Kenneth, The Compleat Option Player, 4th Edition (New York, NY: Inves Trek   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Publishing, 1984). 4. Caplan, David L. The New Options Advantage (Chicago, IL: Probus Publishing, 1995). 5. http://www.cboe.com/education/ Options and the Investor David Walker Economics 185

General Guidelines for Strength Training :: essays research papers

General Guidelines for Strength Training 1. Train with a high level of intensity. It has been shown that the harder you train (intensity), the greater the adaptive response. A high level of intensity is characterized by performing an exercise to the point of concentric (positive) muscular failure, i.e., you've exhausted your muscles to the extent that the weight cannot be moved for any more repetitions. 2. Follow the "double progression" technique in regards to repetitions and weight. For a muscle to increase in size and strength it must be forced to do progressively harder work. Your muscles must be overloaded with a workload that is increased steadily throughout the course of your program, often referred to as progressive overload. Therefore every time you work out you should attempt to increase either the weight you use or the repetitions you perform relative to your previous workout. Each time you attain the maximum number of repetitions, you should increase the resistance for your next workout. The point to remember is that the weight must always be challenging. The resistance should be increased in an amount that you are comfortable with, usually approximately 5-10% 3. Perform one-two sets of each exercise. In order for a muscle to increase in size/strength it must be fatigued or overloaded for an adaptive response to occur. It really doesn't matter whether you fatigue your muscles in one set or several sets - as long as your muscles experience a certain level of exhaustion. Numerous research studies have shown that there are no significant differences when performing either one, two or three sets of an exercise, provided, of course, that one is done with an appropriate level of intensity, to the point of concentric muscular failure. 4. Reach concentric (lifting phase) muscular failure within a prescribed number of repetitions. The general recommendation is 8-12 reps, but this can vary from individual to individual and for different body parts and depending on the individuals goals. Normally, a rep scheme may be anywhere from 6-10 to 12-15. 5. Perform each repetition with proper form. This one we can't stress enough as it's such a common mistake, especially among young trainees. A repetition should be performed by raising and lowering the weight in a deliberate, controlled manner. So how many seconds per repetition? The general guideline is a 6 second repetition consisting of a 2 second lifting (concentric) phase, followed by a 4 second lowering (eccentric) phase.

Creativity and Creative Learning in Young Children

CYPOP4 Promote Young Children’s physical activity and movement skills 1. 1 Physical activity is an essential component in children’s overall health and well being. Unfortunately some children are not as active as they should be to prevent harmful harmful short term and long term effects on their health. * Short term health Physical activity helps children to build muscle, develops the skeletal frame, develops the heart and lung function and also helps prevent obesity. Children who are active are likely to sleep better and longer and are less likely to develop infections such as colds and flu. * Long term healthPhysical activity in young children not only supports health in the short term but can also give children a positive attitude towards sport, playing outdoors and walking. It is important to start when the children are young as when they are older they lose interest in activity. If children are not sufficiently active they are more likely to become overweight or ob ese, this in turn is linked with serious diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and cancers. For girls, there is also the increased risk of developing osteoporosis later in life if they don’t take physical exercise. * Well beingAs well as providing short and long term benefits, physical activity is also important for children’s overall well being. If physical activity is taken outdoors, children will benefit from fresh air and a feeling of being in a free environment. Children can benefit emotionally and socially as they learn new skills and develop confidence playing with others The current guidelines for physical activity suggest that children should get a minimum of one hour a day. This can be through walking, play or structured activities. 1. 2 In order to achieve the physical skills required a mixture of movement skills need to be acquired in the right order.They include the following; * Hand – eye coordination Many activities require the hand and eye to work together. For example throwing a ball requires the brain to send the correct signal from the eyes to the hands to create the correct movements. * Foot-eye coordination Children have to learn to guide their feet. Kicking a ball or climbing stairs require this type of coordination * Balance Balance is a complicated skill. Although most of us take it for granted, the ability to balance is a skill that develops with age. These skills form and develop as part of the central nervous system in babies and young children.The Central nervous system is responsible for sending out signals from the brain to the rest of our body. Information is constantly collected from our body’s senses. The whole process is surprisingly quick allowing the body to take action against possible dangers. In babies and young children the central nervous system has to develop and mature. At first babies have to rely on the natural reflections they are born with until the central nervous system lear ns how to control their responses. The rate at which babies and children gain control over their bodies varies enormously.There are three key principles that underpin the gaining of this control; 1. Development follows a definite sequence Movements and control develop in a specific sequence which means babies cannot learn to walk before they can sit unsupported 2. Development starts with control of head movements and develops downwards and outwards Babies gain control over their head and top of their spine before the rest of the body. 3. Development starts with uncontrolled gross motor movements before becoming precise and refined Babies gain control over their arms before their hands and fingers.This is important to know before trying to teach a child to write. They will need to start with large letter types before learning to write letters in the correct size and form. We use our physical skills every day. The development of children’s skills gives them independence, over t ime they no longer need our help to feed them or get them dressed or move from one place to the next. This gives them confidence to learn because they are exploring. Children also use their new found skills to play together and play more challenging games. Physical skills also link to other aspects of children’s overall development.These are; * Emotional Development Builds children’s confidence. When they can do things for themselves they are more likely to gain confidence. They can do things how and when they want . They can also use physical skills to express themselves like paint, draw and dance. * Language Development Language develops when there are things to talk about. This is easier when children can do things themselves to explore and see things. It gives them a reason to talk. * Social Development Play with babies is active rather than language based. Children can join in when they have learned and developed their physical skills. Cognitive Development Most o f children’s learning is linked to practical activities. This requires movement skills. There are links between early physical movements and brain development. 2. 3 Natural outdoor environments include, fields, woodland, moors and beaches. For children they are a wonderful playground which change with each visit according to the changes in the weather and the season . Children should have access to these kind of environments so they can learn about nature. These kinds of environments encourage children to learn and practise new skills such as climbing up a tree or over a wall or fence.They may also enjoy running on the sand, making footprints and pictures in it. Natural environments may also be challenging for the children as the terrain will be different. It may be uneven to walk on. There may be pools for them to jump in or avoid and things to jump over. All these encourage confidence and better coordination. 3. 1 Although many children are naturally active it is important to think about creating a range of different opportunities for them to develop their physical skills. Planning their development is important. Observation is key to planning for young children.It needs to be the starting point so we can establish what the children enjoy doing and ensure we are planning opportunities appropriate to their development. Planning appropriately for children involves the following; * Time You need to plan sufficient time for the children’s activities. Some children learn at a slower pace so you need to allow for each individual to get enjoyment from the physical activity, while they are developing their new skills. * Balance of child initiated and adult initiated opportunities It is a requirement of the Early Years Foundation Stage that you allow enough opportunities of each during play activities.It is important as children need time to discover new skills for themselves and play in ways that interest them. * Interest Children need to be motivated in order to practise and develop their skills. It is important to look at what each child is interested in and develop from that so they are encouraged to learn and develop . Play is key for children’s development and learning so planning should be around their interests and how we can incorporate physical activity into this. * Developmentally appropriate Activities should be developmentally appropriate.So when planning you must allow for the fact some children have disabilities and special needs. Ensure you seek the correct guidance and support to enable all children to develop through physical activity. * Range of skills and movement It is important that all physical activities allow children to experience and practice a range of skills and movements. * Planning for non mobile babies Babies who are not yet mobile still need opportunities for physical activities. This might include a baby gym to encourage the baby to move their arms and legs, or grasping and shaking a rattle .Babies also need time lying on their front to encourage muscle development for when they learn to crawl. It is important to place objects where babies can reach and grab so they don’t become frustrated. We should also get on the floor and interact and play with the babies. In addition our plans also need to include actions we do ourselves which help babies enjoy movement. These include rocking, swinging, being held up high and bouncing. All these give babies a different view of the world and aid spatial awareness and rhythm. * Planning for toddlersToddlers enjoy exploring and practising their new found skills. They will need opportunities to walk and climb. Some resources toddlers will require to aid development are; * Books * Shape sorters * Sensory equipment such as water, sand and dough * Rocking horses * Sit and ride toys * Slides * Balls * Pushchairs * Planning for 3-5 year olds Most children this age will have fairly good coordination but they will need help developing their fine motor skills. They will also need varied support with their movement skills, which should be incorporated into their play whenever possible.Some adult led activities can be used to ensure that all children develop and range of movements and skills. Some equipment 3-5 year olds will need are; * Puzzles * Construction toys * Sand and water play * Dressing up and role play toys * Small world play * Climbing frames * Slide * Tricycles and scooters * Balls, hoops and cones * Fabrics * Pushchairs 3. 2 Once you have identified opportunities that will promote physical activity in the children you need to incorporate them into your plan.Your plan must; * Meet the individual movement skills needs of the children * Include activities that promote competence in movement skills * Encourage physical play To ensure these points are covered your plan should be based on observations you have carried out on the children. You may show in your plan, details of equipment, specific adult init iated and child initiated activities. The Early Years Foundation also states you show how each child is planned for. It is also good practice to include the child’s ideas when planning activities. They may have preferences to what activity or equipment they would like to use.You need to watch children carefully when implementing planned activities. Their reactions will let you know whether it is developmentally appropriate for them or not. They will also let you know if they find it interesting and sufficiently challenging for them. You should be ready to change, adapt or even abandon the activity if necessary. Being flexible and ready to change your plan according to the needs and interests of the children is essential. Children can be very creative and they may well change or adapt your planned activity to suit them.Some children are more confident than others and may find movement skills easier or be more confident taking risks. Other children will be hesitant and will nee d encouragement to go that step further. 4. 1 It is important to include physical activity into daily routines in order for children to gain skills and build stamina. Getting children used to physical activity as part of their every day lives will help them later on in life. It is also good practice for their independence. Working with parents so they are keeping the children active at home also helps.Children should also have outdoor play each day so they get used to the outside environment. Sources of physical activity in every day routines are; * Washing and drying up * Sweeping the floor and outdoor area * Pouring their own drinks * Preparing snacks * Walking up and down stairs * Tidying up * Dressing and undressing * Wiping tables * Hanging up coats * Walking to and from the setting In my setting we walk to school and back in the morning and afternoon. The children take off their coats and those that can reach hang them up. They take off their shoes and put them together.We hav e music time each day where the children can play the instruments and dance to the music and we go to the park or visit the local green where there are lots of trees and paths to walk on and there is a woodland area where we look for different animals, insects and birds. 5. 1 It is important for us to be aware of how effective our provision and practice is in supporting children’s physical activity. To be able to assess the effectiveness in your setting you should consider the following; * Observe and assess children’s participation and developmental progress Look at the children and observe them over a number of weeks.Consider how interested they have been in opportunities of physical activity and if they have made progress. * Gain direct feedback from children Children’s reactions can be verbal or non verbal. They may tell us if they have enjoyed an activity or not. Children who cannot speak will let you know with body language and expression. A child who has enjoyed an activity may become excited at seeing a photo of them doing the activity. In my setting I have a photo album which the children can access themselves to look at. I also get it from time to time and we look at the pictures together. Gain feedback from parents, colleagues and others Other people can see more objectively and give their thoughts about our settings and provisions. Parents also experience seeing their children in other situations and may be able to guide us on sufficiently challenging activities. In my setting I have daily chats with parents, I also have a facebook page they can look at and I provide regular parent surveys to get feedback from them. 5. 2 Feedback and information you gain should be used to identify areas for future development.In some settings this may mean altering the physical environment while others may need to change the types of activities and play opportunities. 5. 3 It is important to reflect on your own practice in order to make any imp rovements necessary. Some questions you could ask yourself are; * Do you act as a good role model? * Do you join in physical activities? * Do you observe children’s physical skills regularly? * How aware are you of the children’s expected development? * How do you adapt activities and play opportunities to meet the individual needs oof the children? How do you ensure both boys and girls enjoy physical activity? * How do you plan activities to ensure the children are engaged in a range of movement skills? * How do you ensure that there is sufficient challenge for the children? * How often are children able to play in a natural outdoor environment? Being honest with yourself is key to ensuring you are meeting the children’s developmental requirements. It’s no good thinking you do that or being pretty sure you are good at this. You have to be sure bin order to provide the best for your children.

High School and Personality Traits Essay

Directions: Read the following questions and write the answers on a separate sheet of paper. Include the question as part of your response. Use COMPLETE sentences—do not use fragments or incomplete thoughts. Use DETAIL in your responses. â€Å"None, nothing, I don’t know, etc.† are inadequate responses. Your goal is to give me as much information about yourself as possible! 1. Who was your English teacher last year? Describe both your successes and difficulties in the class. 2. What is your full name? Are you named after someone in your family? 3. When and where were you born? How old are you now? 4. Describe three members of your immediate family—be specific by detailing names, ages, physical characteristics, and personality traits. 5. In what places have you lived? 6. Who is your best friend and why is that the case? Describe him/her—be specific by detailing names, ages, physical characteristics, personality traits. 7. Describe any pets you have/have had/desire to have. If you could be any animal, what would you be and why? 8. Describe what you like to do in your spare time, and on weekends. 9. What is your favorite TV program(s)? Why? What kind of music do you like? 10. Where have you traveled or would like to travel? Describe what draws you to that particular place and why. 11. Describe your particular talents. What do you do well? 12. Do you want to go to college? Which one? What career do you hope to pursue when you are an adult? Why? What are you doing now to prepare yourself for these goals? 13. What do you like best about school? What do you like least about school? 14. What extracurricular activities are you involved in at school or outside of school? 15. Describe any other interesting aspect(s) of yourself. CLASS COPY!DO NOT WRITE ON THIS! Detailed Biography Directions: Read the following questions and write the answers on a separate sheet of paper. Include the question as part of your response. Use COMPLETE sentences—do not use fragments or incomplete thoughts. Use DETAIL in your responses. â€Å"None, nothing, I don’t know, etc.† are inadequate responses. Your goal is to give me as much information about yourself as possible! 1. Who was your English teacher last year? Describe both your successes and difficulties in the class. 2. What is your full name? Are you named after someone in your family? 3. When and where were you born? How old are you now? 4. Describe three members of your immediate family—be specific by detailing names, ages, physical characteristics, and personality traits. 5. In what places have you lived? 6. Who is your best friend and why is that the case? Describe him/her—be specific by detailing names, ages, physical characteristics, personality traits. 7. Describe any pets you have/have had/desire to have. If you could be any animal, what would you be and why? 8. Describe what you like to do in your spare time, and on weekends. 9. What is your favorite TV program(s)? Why? What kind of music do you like? 10. Where have you traveled or would like to travel? Describe what draws you to that particular place and why. 11. Describe your particular talents. What do you do well? 12. Do you want to go to college? Which one? What career do you hope to pursue when you are an adult? Why? What are you doing now to prepare yourself for these goals? 13. What do you like best about school? What do you like least about school? 14. What extracurricular activities are you involved in at school or outside of school? 15. Describe any other interesting aspect(s) of yourself.

Sentencing Paper

Sentencing Paper Deadrian Williams CJS/ 200 3/3/2013 Bryan Maglicco Six Forms of Punishment Fines are one of the oldest forms of punishment, the use of fines as criminal sanctions suffers from built in inequities and a widespread failure to collect them (Schmalleger, 2011). Fines can deprive offenders of the proceeds of criminal activity, and also promote rehabilitation by enforcing economic responsibility (Schmalleger, 2011).People have to pay fines when they break minor laws, such as driving while intoxicated, reckless driving, disturbing the peace, public drunkenness, and vandalism (Schmalleger, 2011). Capital punishment is the death penalty. Capital punishment is the most extreme of all sentencing options (Schmalleger, 2011). Capital punishment is sentenced when someone comments a capital offense. In 2008, for example, a twenty eight year old man was sentenced to death in the atrocious murder of a ten year old girl in what authorities said was an elaborate plan to cannibalize the girls flesh (Schmalleger, 2011).Today, the federal government and 35 of the 50 states permit execution for first degree murder, kidnapping, aggravated rape, the murder of a police or corrections officer, or murder while under a life sentence (Schmalleger, 2011). Probation is another form of punishment. Probation means testing the behavior or abilities. In a legal sense, an offender on probation is ordered to follow certain conditions set forth by the court, often under the supervision of a probation officer (Wikipedia, 2013).Offenders are ordinarily required to refrain from firearms, and may be ordered to remain employed, have a curfew, live in a decent place and not leave the jurisdiction (Wikipedia, 2013). Incarceration is another form of punishment. Jails are shorter lock up centers ran by counties and operated by sheriffs (Cliffnotes. com Types of Sentences, 2013). Usually inmates that are in jail are waiting to go to trial who were unable to make bail, people with misdemeanors , and felons who violated probation (Cliffnotes. com Types of Sentences, 2013). Also people re incarcerated in prisons who are convicted felons. Prisons are operated by the state (Cliffnotes. com Types of Sentences, 2013). Community service is another form of punishment. Community service is paying your debt back to society for the wrong doings that a person does, by doing work that benefits the community (Cliffnotes. com Types of Sentences, 2013). People doing community service clean up highways, cut grass, plant trees and flowers, and wash away graffiti. People who are punished with community service have a certain amount of hours they must do to complete the community service order.Failure to complete community service can lead to possibly jail time and more fines. Reducing recidivism Recommendations on how to modify the sentencing process would be to look at the record of the defendant and also the severity of the crime when sentencing. If someone has committed a murder or a rap e, or kidnapping then they should get the severest sentence possible even if it is their first time because those crimes are against people. Families have been destroyed because of what the person did. Good behavior should not play in the sentencing of these offenders.They did not think about the victims when they committed the crime so the courts should not give them a break because of good behavior. If the sentencing process was stricter and focused more on the offender punishment and not what other people would say and feel about the crime then it would be a lot less crimes. References Cliffnotes. com Types of Sentences. (2013, March 4). Retrieved from Cliffnotes. com: http://m. cliffnotes. com Schmalleger, F. (2011). Criminal Justice Today. Prentice Hall. Wikipedia, (2013).

Cultural homogeneity and globalization Essay

Cultural homogeneity and globalization are becoming concepts that are subjects of debate in the world eye. Some scholars and politicians argue for the increase of globalization, and some argue against. The world is becoming smaller and more homogenous and this holds many advantages, some disadvantages, and is creating a future that is full of possibilities. According to the Merriam-Webster Online, globalization is â€Å"the development of an increasingly integrated global economy marked especially by free trade, free flow of capital, and the tapping of cheaper foreign labor markets†. However, the concept of globalization is much more complex than this. Jan Scholte argues, in her paper about globalization, that, â€Å"Most attempts to quantify globalization have conceived of the process as internationalization. † (8) So, in effect globalization is the concept of the exchange of ideas and goods becoming not a national concept anymore, but an international one. Because globalization increases that amount of goods and ideas that are being traded internationally, it also has an effect on the pervasion of cultural homogeny throughout the world. Homogeny is defined by Webster’s Dictionary as, â€Å"being of a similar kind or type, uniform throughout† (221). So, in essence globalization is causing the worlds peoples to become more like on another through the dispersion of goods and ideas. Cultural homogeny is becoming more noticeable in today’s society because of the large amount of media and other goods that are part of a larger global marketplace. For example, â€Å"Young people everywhere are listening to the same music† (Rourke and Boyer 110). This does not mean, however, that young people are all listening to â€Å"western† music. Many different types of music are becoming part of young people listening preferences and musicians and other artists from all over the world are becoming recognized internationally. Clothing is another area where there is more of a trend towards homogeneity. Rourke and Boyer note, â€Å"The leaders of China used to wear â€Å"Mao suits†; now they wear Western-style business suits† (110). As cultural homogeny becomes more of an issue that is receiving media coverage and is becoming more recognized in the world eye, it has been discussed by many scholars as to whether it is advantageous for the world’s peoples. There have been concerns voiced, â€Å"For example, languages have been disappearing at rates as worrying as those for species extinction† (Wurm), and the fact that the world is made up of many rich cultures that might be watered down into â€Å"a less vibrant monoculture† (Rourke, et. al 113) if globalization continues at its current pace. However, there are many advantages both cultural and economic to globalization and there is a lot of acceptance and praise for its continuation. Rourke and Boyer state, â€Å"Most people welcome the availability of foreign culture. A worldwide survey in 45 countries found that 77% thought that having foreign products available was good, and 61% felt that way about foreign movies and other entertainment media† (113). Part of the argument against globalization by some is that it is limited to western culture pervading all other cultures and taking them over. However, there are examples that can be shown that cultural homogeneity is a worldwide phenomenon. If we look at â€Å"American culture, for example, (it) is influenced by many foreign imports, ranging from fajitas and sushi, through soccer, to acupuncture† (Rourke, et. al 110). American and other western teenagers have more choices through this concept to listen to and view media from other countries. Also, Rourke and Boyer note that â€Å"the interchange of popular consumer goods is another major factor in narrowing of culture gaps† (111) and that this is the case throughout the world, not just of goods going one way out of America and other western countries. Globalization and cultural homogeneity are inextricably linked and are changing the way that the world functions in many ways. Media, goods and ideas are flowing freely from country to country, and this is creating a global society that is a mix of all cultures and economies. ? References Globalization. (2010). In Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary. Retrieved March 26, 2010, from http://www. merriam-webster. com/dictionary/globalization. Homogeny. (2002). Webster’s pocket dictionary of the English language. Trident International. Rourke, J. T. & Boyer, M. A. (2010). International Politics on the World Stage (8th brief ed. ). Primis Online: McGraw Hill. Scholte, J. (2002). What is Globalization? The definitional issue – again. CSGR Working Paper, 109/02, 1-8. Wurm, S. A. (ed. ), Atlas of the World’s Languages in Danger of Disappearing (Paris: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, 1996).

Tesco Competitive Strategy Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Tesco Competitive Strategy - Case Study Example echoes that, today the challenges for companies is not just providing high quality product but the ability to provide these products at a lower cost and price (Prahalad & Hamel 1990). These must be incorporated in the company's strategies. Against this background companies are in dear search for different ways and measures to remain competitive and consequently create values for their shareholders. (Hamel & Prahalad, 1994). Having said this, the paper focuses on TESCO. In section two I will provide an overview of the company, its products, people and resources, part two of the paper looks at its competitive position in line with the five forces model, while part three discusses its competitive advantage, and the last section provides the conclusion and recommendations. TESCO Plc is an international retailer founded by Jack Cohen in 1919 that has established itself as the largest super store in Europe (Report 2008). According to the company 2008 corporate report and the website, being an international retailer, its principal activities include food retailing, simple travel insurance, personal finance, TELECOM and recycling having over 2,000 stores in the United Kingdom (Company's Review 2008). The company also has stores and retail outlet in other countries like the Republic of Ireland, Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Turkey, Thailand, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Japan and China (Tesco 2006 Review). In addition, it operates 165 International Express stores. In addition it operates 39 stores in China, 111 in Japan, 13 in Malaysia, 62 in South Korea, 6 in Taiwan, 219 in Thailand, 35 in Czech Republic, 87 in Hungary, 105 in Poland, 91 in Republic of Ireland, 37 in Slovakia and 8 in Turkey. (Tesco Annual Review, 2008). It therefore operates round the clock which demonstrates its commitment to create customer value which in turn generates superior value for its shareholders. The success of this international giant in the retail sector can be attributed to its aggressive global strategy of geographical diversification, product differentiation, cost focus and it use of umbrella branding. In its attempt to renew the brand and keep it in sync with changing customer tastes, Tesco follows an umbrella strategy including international diversification, providing value to customers, product diversification, innovation, acquisition and umbrella branding. (Tesco Annual Review, 2008). 2.0 Tesco and Porter's Five Forces Framework Through the below stated framework developed by Michael Porter we will identify the sources of competition in an industry. Here, according to Porter (1990), the sources of competition in an industry such as the grocery sector in the case of Tesco can be easily depicted. Figure 1: Porters Five Forces Framework adapted from Johnson et al (2007) Figure 1 above depicts the forces of competition in an industry. According to Porter (1990) enables market analyst and investors to asses the attractiveness and profit potentials likely to be in an industry. Using this framework an analyst gets to identify the sources of competition in an industry or sector (Johnson & Scholes 2005). The basis upon which this framework is built will serve to

Case studies College Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Studies College - Case Study Example (citation omitted but mentioned in this case) Answer to Question 2: The duty to use reasonable care in assigning the student to internship was not changed by the fact that the student arranged her own internship or practicum because this did not change the special relationship of student-institution imposed by the mandatory internship program of the school. In the other hand, even if it is the student who arranged her own practicum, she still needs the approval of the school on the selected site. Part of the duty of the school before approval is to determine the condition of the site whether it a conducive place and to warn the student of any foreseeable risks. Answer to Question 3: Aside from waivers to be signed by the parent/s of the student, another way that the institution could protect itself from liability is to have the employer, student, or school sign indemnity agreements or releases of liability which is appropriate in the case of mandatory internship program. ... ) PAPER 2 Bradshaw v. Rawlings 612 F. 2d 135 (3d Cir. 1979) Answer to Question 1: It is a settled rule beginning from this case that college students, mostly 18 and above, are already adults, and the supervisory duty of an institution imposed by the doctrine in loco parentis no longer applies as the doctrine only applies to minors. Therefore, regulating the conduct of students and school-sponsored student activities outside the institution is no longer the responsibility of the school. Once the school, in its own initiative, took the responsibility in regulating those activities, it created a "special relationship" imposing to itself a responsibility to protect the students from the foreseeable risks of the activity. As a result, the failure to provide a reasonable care for the students in the conduct of school-sponsored activity will make the school liable for injuries that may be sustained by the students, if any, even if it is an off-campus activity. In this connection, the school could have better protected itself form the potential liability in situations involving student activity and the consumption of alcohol by limiting the coverage of the school policy prohibiting alcohol consumption during school or student activities within the school premises only. It is therefore suggested, that a change in the school's written policy of regulating alcohol consumption by the students to be limited only on in-campus activities or in activities sponsored by the school. In cases of off-campus activities where an adviser is involved, it should be clarified before the activity as to what level of interaction should the adviser exercise. The type and level of