Action Plan for Recruiting Teachers

Introduction The introduction of a new system of recruiting and selection of teachers at DCPS classroom is an important strategy of enhancing student achievement. The system is performance-based and it tries to recognize the most competent teachers, for recruitment and selection.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Action Plan for Recruiting Teachers specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In order to monitor the teachers’ performance, Recruitment and Selection team uses a spreadsheet that tracks those teachers who progress from each stage during the recruitment and selection phase. The spreadsheet has columns that indicate the goals set at the beginning of the years and the actual performance of the teachers at every juncture (Murray, 2000). The spreadsheet that tracks the teachers’ progress in the recruitment and selection process indicates that the team had anticipated that 60% (equivalent to 2645) of inte rested applicants would submit complete applications. However, the tracking spreadsheet indicate that it was only 54% (equivalent to 1186) who were successful in submitting complete applications that entailed a complete resume, complete pre-qualification questions and complete employment. The consequent step entailed identifying those applicants who submitted applications that met qualifications. Out of the anticipated 80% (equivalent to 2116), it was 76% (equivalent to 902) who were able to submit applications that met qualifications. The recruitment and selection team anticipated that 70% (equivalent to 1481) applicants would pass the initial application screen. Nonetheless, it was only 56% (505) of the applicants, who qualified in proceeding to the next phase. The second stage involved completing a pedagogical knowledge assessment. The team had anticipated that 90% (1333) of the candidates who proceeded from the 1st phase should qualify for scheduling in completing a pedagogical content knowledge assessment. Out of the 1333 anticipated for schedule of the pedagogical assessment, it was1200 candidates, which represent 90% of the candidates anticipated in completing the pedagogical assessment, were scheduled. However, it was only 83% (356) of the 505 anticipated candidates, who were able to complete the pedagogical assessment. The recruitment and selection team anticipated that out of the 356 candidates who qualify in completing the pedagogical assessment, 75% (900) of them would pass the assessment. Surprisingly, those who passed the assessment surpassed the target, as 77% (274) passed the assessment. The third phase of the recruitment and selection process involved an interview. For those who were to have a phone interview, they were required to submit a 10-minute teaching video. The team anticipated scheduling 90% (810) for the interview. However, 95% (261) candidates were scheduled.Advertising Looking for report on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Out of those scheduled for the interview, the team expected 95% (769) of the candidates would complete the interview. However, in the actual sense, out of the 261 candidates whom the team expected could complete the interview, 84% (219) completed it, and presented a 10-minute teaching video. The 4th phase, which marked the end of the recruitment and selection process, involved giving those candidates who proceed to this stage an opportunity to complete a 30-minute teaching session. The recruitment and selection team anticipated that 65% (500) of the candidates would get an opportunity to complete a 30-minute teaching audition in a DCPS classroom. However, 75% (164) of the candidates got the audition opportunity. The team anticipated that 90% (450) of those who got the audition opportunity would pass. Nonetheless, the actual candidates who pass the audition are 138, which represent 84% of the 164 candidates who manage to com plete the audition. Goals and objectives The chief objective for the Recruitment and Selection team is to identify and hire competent teaching staff that will ensure a highly effective teacher in every DCPS classroom. Specific Objectives To identify high talented and competent teachers for recruitment and selection To ensure that the Recruitment and Selection team has identified sufficient candidates (450) to fill in the anticipated number of vacancies for the year 2012-2013 Action Plan The recruitment and selection process has advanced greatly. With the recruitment and selection process advancement passed the interviewing stage, the recruitment and selection method is about to end. However, with only three weeks to the recruitment and selection deadline, the team assigned the task should act fast to finish its mission within its deadline. According to the spreadsheet that indicates real time performance of the candidates, the team can consider having identified 138 successful can didates. This is far less than the anticipated target of 450 teaching staffs to fill the anticipated 450 vacancies for the year 2012-2013. Therefore, the recruitment and selection team will convene a meeting and identify the best strategy to identify the 312 remaining teachers. Since there exist the recruitment team that comprise of the two coordinators, teacher recruiter-program assistance supporting the researcher in executing the plan. The team will then advance to the next stage that involves assignation of roles. After sharing the roles, the team should proceed, develop a competitive compensation, and benefit package.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Action Plan for Recruiting Teachers specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This should entail itemize and placing a dollar value on the overall package. The committee should identify sources of revenues, develop benefit packages, place dollar amount on monetary †“type benefits, list non-monetary rewards. In addition, the committee should consult the legal advice to find out whether its packages comply with the State codes (Andiele, 2012). Moreover, at this point the committee should identify possible barriers to the implementation process that is recruitment and retention and develop appropriate mitigation strategies. Then the team should proceed to the nest phase that entails defining its ideal candidate for the position. The team should do a desired characteristic tally chart continuum to determine how close each preferred candidate matches your ideal. The team will require developing a candidate questionnaire that asks specific questions that will assist the team in identifying how the candidate matches the ideal candidate for the position. For instance, the team can ask the candidate how he/she caters for individual differences in a class setting (Mary, 2010; McCarthy, 1992). The committee should then develop a recruitment activity bu dget to finance the recruitment process. The committee should assign someone to oversee the budget development and set a deadline on when it should be ready. The next stage will entail creating a practicing opportunity information package and promotional materials. The process should entail the committee developing classified ads, direct mail letters, and promotional packets that enhance the professional and personal aspect of the opportunity the committee contemplate will appeal to the ideal candidate previously defined. During this stage, it is important to identify the best medium to use in relaying the information. The committee can consider using the educational newsletters in communicating their messages to the targeted audience, or other print media such as newspapers. Similarly, the committee can opt to use radio or TV ads in order to increase the number of interested candidates. Use of the right media of advertisement is important as it helps in making sure that the intende d information reaches a large number of the targeted people (Brookins, 2012). Development and implementation of candidate generation strategies is of essence. The committee should generate a list of possible sources of candidates. The committee should make sure that it does do not limit its sources to local candidacy, but instead it should sources its candidates regionally, Statewide, as well as nationally in order to recruit highly competent teachers.Advertising Looking for report on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In the process of developing candidates’ generation process, the team should identify the costs associated with each source through gathering rate cards from journals, estimating postage and mailing list costs for direct mail efforts. In addition, it should incorporate estimated costs that accompany visiting candidates teaching environments (Eugene, 2012). In addition, the committee should identify free sources of candidates and locations to publicize opportunity such as specific academic institutions such as universities (Richason, 2012). Thereafter the committee should develop a process of receiving candidate information and quickly following up candidate inquiries. The committee should assign one of its coordinator the responsibility for receiving candidate information, sending follow up packet and notifying the candidate screening team, as well as sending the team the candidate information. At this stage, the team also develops a chart for tracking where each candidate is in the recruitment procedure starting from first contact until the signing of the recruitment contract. The other stage will involve developing the interviewing process. This will entail the committee members forming the interview team. In addition, the committee develops interview questionnaires that helps in determining whether the candidate possess the required characteristics as outline by the ideal candidate. In addition, the committee and the interview team should prepare themselves for possible questions from the candidates. Then the committee should develop procedures to establish the candidates’ credentials, as well as developing a questionnaire for administering to the referee, the questionnaire will help the interview team learn whether from the referee point of view the candidate possess the required characteristics, as defined by the ideal candidate. The committee should review relevant laws that relate to reference checking. In addition, the committee should id entify two more referees not provided by the candidate to supplement information offered by the candidate referees (Brookins, 2012; Rowan, 2012). After conducting the interview, successful candidates will require visiting the DCPS classroom for audition purposes, therefore, the committee should visit the school and inform concerned stakeholders accordingly. At the same time, the committee team should develop a draft contract. Those teachers who pass the audition process will get a proposition letter to see the terms and conditions associated with their job. The candidates will be required to confirm acceptance or rejection of the offer. The team should then develop and implement candidate integration plan when candidate accepts the offer. On the other hand, the team should identify and assess reasons for candidate rejection of the contract and adjust the recruitment process and practices in order to address reasons for rejections. The last phase entails developing and implementing a primary care provider retention plan that entail a plan of monthly meeting with the recruited teachers and assessing the integration process in their new school. In addition, the process includes quarterly meeting with the recruited teachers and discuss about retention issues, as well as address concerns. The plan also entails working with appropriate DCPS classroom stakeholders about developing long-term and retention plan (Doyle, 1983). Rationale The aim of the designed action plan is to establish an effective process of identifying, recruiting and retaining very competent teachers at DCPS classroom who will guarantee high achievement for DCPS students. Anticipated Challenges In formulating the action plan, the researcher anticipated the following challenges: Lack of cooperation from some essential stakeholders Lack of enough resources to facilitate the process In conclusion: if the DCPS classroom follows the aforementioned processes in its recruitment and selection procedure, it will definitely recruit highly competent teachers who will guarantee exceptional performance for its students. In addition, the plan will enable the committee manage to get the anticipated 450 highly competent teachers by the end of the year. Reference List Andiele, N. (2012). Recruitment and Selection Process. Retrieved from  https://ezinearticles.com/?Recruitment-And-Selection-Processid=1885405 Brookins, M. (2012). Different Methods of Advertising Job Vacancies. Web. Davis, B. (2012). Research Instruments: Questionnaires in Interviewing. New York, Prentice Hall. Doyle. K.O. (1983). Evaluating Teaching Effectiveness. San Francisco: New Lexington. Eugene OR. (2012). Guidelines for Recruitment and Selection. Retrieved from https://hr.uoregon.edu/recruitment/recruitment-hiring-faculty-and-staff Mary, C. (2010). Effective Strategies for Hiring the Best Faculty. Retrieved from http://connection.ebscohost.com/c/articles/54569613/effective-strategies-Hiring-best-new-faculty McCarthy, P (1992). Common Teaching Methods. New York: Prentice Hall. Murray, H.G. (2000). Can Teaching be improved? Canada: Brock University. Richason, O. (2012). Methods of Recruitment and Selection. Retrieved from  https://smallbusiness.chron.com/methods-recruitment-selection-2532.html Rowan, C. (2012). Teachers Recruitment and Selection. New York: Prentice Hall. This report on Action Plan for Recruiting Teachers was written and submitted by user Carolina Glover to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

The 15 writing habits of people who build amazing careers

The 15 writing habits of people who build amazing careers The 15 writing habits of people who build amazing careers One of the great pleasures of my job is that I frequently get a chance to talk to people who really are at the top of their game. Over the last 18 years, my colleagues and I have worked with over 40,000 people. And among them have been many industry leaders who have built seriously impressive careers and truly made a difference in their particular sector. These people are undeniably successful –Â  regardless of whether you define success in monetary terms, in what theyve been able to achieve, or both. Along the way, Ive noticed certain characteristics coming up again and again in the documents and emails that these super-successful people write – and in the approach they take to writing them. Clear patterns have emerged: ways of writing that so many successful people seem to share that I strongly suspect they are habits that underpin their success. Some of these patterns are in the way they write. Others are in what they write (and in how they develop that content). Together, these things propel them forwards, enabling them to make the kind of progress that others can only dream of – and often to earn many times more than those people. No single person exhibits all the traits, or even most of them. And these extraordinary individuals may not even be aware that the way they approach written communication is special or know why their approach works so much better than what other people do. But the fact that they do it that way has almost certainly been a major factor in their rise to the top. So here are those characteristics: 1. They write with confidence It takes courage to tell it like it is, but these people have it in spades. Theres a fine line between being arrogant and being confident, and these people are definitely the latter. They exude belief in their messages by never hiding behind flowery language or using 30 words when ten will do. 2. They nurture their ideas So much writing advice (and presentation training, for that matter) focuses on methodology. But even the most articulate wording will not disguise lazy thinking. Effective thinking needs to come first and it takes time. It cant be done between emails or checking Facebook. These people make and take that time, building and developing their ideas. As a result, what they write has real value. In the longer term, this builds their personal PR, and their organisations begin to recognise that value more and more. 3. They keep notes Neuroscientists have made many real breakthroughs in the last 20 years. One of these is the discovery that there are two distinct types of thinking: focused thought and free association (sometimes called mind wandering mode). Our brains cant do both at the same time, needing instead to switch between the two. (Brain researchers have even identified the neural switch that does this – the cingulate cortex.) The best ideas often spring from the second type of thinking, which typically happens when you are not sitting at your desk. In fact, it tends to happen when youre doing something completely unrelated to work – like shopping or loading the dishwasher. Successful people tend to capture ideas from these moments of mind wandering by noting them down on their smartphones or on a small pad, which they keep with them at all times for that purpose. 4. They are careful readers Successful people often seem to recognise that their attention and mental capacity are precious resources that they must spend wisely and renew regularly. As such, they use social media and other websites judiciously, reserving them for free thinking time rather than getting sucked down into all-day Facebook fests that drain them of energy and original thought. They also allow time to focus on one thing –Â  which benefits them not just because they can develop their ideas but because continually switching attention drains mental energy. 5. They look after their mind This habit often extends into other areas of their lives. For example, they make sure they get enough sleep and they eat sensibly: avoiding the highs and lows of sugar binges or overdosing on caffeine. Of course, they are human. But their secret is self-awareness. So, if the ideas arent there, they do something about it: whether thats going for a walk, stimulating their mind – with more reading or music, for example – or simply stopping and picking things up tomorrow. 6. They are conscious writers This one is critical. People who build extraordinary careers are expert influencers, so they are acutely aware of the effect both poor and good writing can have on others. They know that every document or email is an opportunity to influence many more people than they will ever meet, so they never squander that opportunity. That means they think before they write (unlike their less successful colleagues, who typically think while theyre writing –Â  or even afterwards, when it may well be too late). 7. They write to express, not impress The most successful writers never waste time or screen space posturing with verbose language. Theyd much rather engage directly with the brains of those they seek to influence in the most efficient way possible. 8. They know that its not all about me The first and main focus for them is their reader: who they are, what interests them, what they might be thinking and what they want them to think. That focus underpins their planning and stays with them throughout the writing process. (This is in contrast to less effective writers, whose focus tends to be on just getting the thing written and crossed off their list.) 9. They see the big picture This is another aspect that truly marks out highly successful people from the rest. Ive noticed that they develop a keen understanding of where their organisation is going and make sure they keep that at the front of their minds, rather than dwelling on the minutiae of the day-to-day. But that doesnt mean they ignore minor tasks or issues. They just see those as part of the bigger picture and keep that in mind when theyre writing. As a result, they often have a direct connection with the executives in the C-suite, who tend to be similarly focused. 10. They know when enough is enough The most successful people make their written communications only as long as they need to be: never longer. They also know that those communications usually need to be a lot shorter than many of their colleagues think they do. 11. They set clear objectives and they plan Uncommonly successful people know exactly what each report or proposal needs to achieve. Often, they write down those objectives; always, they base them on a knowledge of their readers. (See point 8.) This is part of an essential planning process. Many people start their documents by immediately firing up Word (or, if theyre a management consultant, more likely PowerPoint) and starting to type. But not these people. They know that planning is essential and they take time to work out a structure for their document before they even touch their keyboard. 12. They know how to build a persuasive argument By the time they start typing, they already have a clear idea of who their reader is, where they need them to go and –Â  crucially –Â  how theyre going to get them there. The most successful people know that persuasive writing is more of a science than an art. So they build their argument carefully first. As a result, their battle is half won even before they open up their laptop. 13. They are politically aware Awareness of organisational politics – and how to use that knowledge to your advantage –Â  is a sensitive issue. In an ideal world, everyone would work together selflessly and and logically for the greater good. But the real world is populated by humans, with all their foibles, ambitions and emotions. Successful people know that their documents will have to work with those too. So, regardless of what theyre writing, they take into account human psychology and how its played out in their particular workplace. 14. They dont rely on writing alone Its tempting to think that the written word is the only tool in your communication toolbox. The most successful people know that there are other tools too, and theyre careful to choose the right one for the job each time. So their documents often include captivating charts, diagrams or pictures. And these people know when to talk to someone instead of emailing them (sometimes as a way to ensure a document hits its mark). 15. They sweat the small stuff Ive deliberately left spelling, punctuation and grammar to the end of this list – even though those are the things that most people think of if you mention effective writing. Thats because a technically perfect document can still be devoid of original thought, totally disengaging and, therefore, potentially useless. However, it is still important to make sure that silly mistakes in accuracy dont undermine all your hard work. Successful people use spell-check and proofread their work. This list is still evolving and its not exhaustive. You may well have noticed other habits that make all the difference. Id love to hear what they are, so do let me know in the comments below. Image credit: mimagephotography / Shutterstock

Introduction to Modern Art and Visual Culture of France Essay

Introduction to Modern Art and Visual Culture of France - Essay Example The essay "Introduction to Modern Art and Visual Culture of France" discovers modern art in France during 18th-19th century. Some of the works that were so famous during the 18 th and 19 th century France would be the interpretation of Roger Fry on Bloomsbury. You can see that in his work he depicted leisure in such a way that would tell greatly of the influences of the post impressionism movement where it was full of passion towards advanced and avant-garde French art that was centered on analysis of sensation and consciousness. His art was known for as subjects for passionate contemplation and communion which translates to aesthetic experience and pursuit of knowledge. This is because of the fact that during â€Å"Post Impressionism† people have already reached advanced knowledge. Aside from that, his art also has a lot of influence from the social class he belonged to as he was one of the prominent members of the Bloomsbury group thus, his life was all about limitless enjoy ment of modern life and enjoyment of utmost knowledge and technology. Another popular art that portrayed leisure in the 18 th and 19 th century France would be â€Å"Madame Matisse† by Henri Matisse. This was the painting he used to portray his wife where you can see the influences of what social class they belonged to in society, and at the same time reflecting political and social environment. In this painting, you will see how his wife was portrayed as a rich woman having full of contrasts of different colors.

The Urban Farmers Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Urban Farmers - Assignment Example It is realistic that the provisions are fresh; thus, the hygiene and health benefits accrued remain evident compared to the provisions availed by various supermarkets whose sources rest unknown to Eugene’s consumers. In the present, the market provides an uncontested array of provisions ranging from farm products to local artwork. Therefore, the journal’s mission through the volunteered project would assert the ongoing clientele and pricing practices in the market. 0930hrs-0959hrs- assessment of the random population of consumer groups entering and exiting the market. It is realistic that 50% of the clients entering target vegetable products. Another 10% of the clients seek the attention of floral farmers. The remaining 40% population of clients targets plants and animal product farmers. 1000hrs-1029hrs- The clients’ visit distinct farmers in the market. It is evident from the random population of clientele that some of farmers could be unknown to the clients in accordance to the behavioral practices. 1130hrs-1200hrs- Analyzing the differences in prices. It is recommended that farmers need to implement similar pricing models, which would avoid the unfair competition prevailing in the current market structure. The volunteer program in the evaluating the customer counts at Alley Street and in assessing the pricing practices shown by the farmers served towards the recognition of the potential economic yield that one would accrue from consuming the local products. Personally, the social practices shown by Lane County Farmers’ Market participants influenced the perception that they were devoted to ensure organic farming practices for healthy consumption. I realized that the prices were different amongst the competing farmers. However, it is evident that the prices were economical compared to those stipulated by the giant supermarkets on the same products. Therefore, buying and consuming products from the Lane County

Where is our Language Headed Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Where is our Language Headed - Essay Example The most prevalent and most influential ways of modern communication is texting. Baron has highlighted different arguments concerning effect of texting on the article â€Å"Are Digital Media Changing Language?† Crystal on the article â€Å"2B or not 2B.† has also highlighted the same issue. Whether modern texting has an effect on language remains a contentious issue. Therefore, this paper seeks to compare and contrast the ideologies of Baron and Crystal with an aim of supporting that effect of texting on language is insignificant. Whereas we have appreciated the technological evolution in enhancing communication, it is true that the same has come with an appreciable change in attitude towards language. According to Baron, internet and mobile phone communication has its own characteristics, which are likely to be mapped in official language communication. However, he quotes a study by Pew Internet and American Life Project, which claimed, â€Å"middle school and high sc hool students understand what kind of language is appropriate in what context† (Baron, 2009). According to the findings of this study, it is evident that although texting has become the technological form of communication, it has not greatly influenced the official language of communication. Interestingly, Crystal has echoed the same sentiments. He claims â€Å"Texting has added a new dimension to language use, but its long-term impact is negligible. It is not a disaster† (Crystal, 2008). The similarities in their opinion suffices to support that indeed, the modern trend in texting has little if any significance in official language. It is worthwhile noting that texting is not an emerging trend but rather has evolved since time immemorial. Although it can be claimed that texting has gained heightened usage in recent times, historical evolution has not resulted to considerable effect on official language communication. Baron captures the way technology has caused languag e evolution. For instance, there is an observed change from â€Å"news paper† to â€Å"news-paper† to the presently used â€Å"newspaper.† Similarly, Crystal, on the other hand, recounts the same idea of texting language persistence. He claims, â€Å"The most noticeable feature is the use of single letters, numerals, and symbols to represent words or parts of words, as with b "be" and 2 "to.† They are called rebuses, and they go back centuries† (Crystal, 2008). It can be concluded from the two ideologies that texting has little impact on official language. This is because, texting has been present in the society for decades yet the changes have been minimal. Although Baron has highlighted some of the effects of technology language to official communication, it can be argued that such changes are minimal to warrant heightened worry on language influence. Crystal asserts that language abbreviation has been a common and natural phenomenon for ages. Int erestingly, the criticism on language abbreviation dates back to 1711. He asserts, â€Å"Words such as exam, vet, fridge, cox and bus are so familiar that they have effectively become new words† (Crystal, 2008). People like Joseph Addison were some of the early critiques of language abbreviation. However, language evolution took place as a necessity rather than influence. Language is meant for communication, of course in simple means. Although such changes have been easily adopted as official communication language, Baron promotes the same idea of acceptance to abbreviation. According to him, â€Å"A wide swath of educated speakers of English (at least American English) simply don’

Is Virtue Knowledge Or Teachable Philosophy Essay

Is Virtue Knowledge Or Teachable Philosophy Essay Plato presents Socrates views on the question whether virtue is knowledge and whether it can be taught in several dialogues, most notably in Meno. In this dialogue, Socrates makes many different arguments on the subject of virtue. These arguments include how virtue is defined and whether or not people can acquire it. He examines the ways that virtue can be attained; whether or not one is born being virtuous, whether virtue can be taught or it is another factor for virtues people have. In this essay I will focus on the question of whether virtue can be taught. Platos answer is that virtue cannot be taught. In this essay I will suggest that Plato could have framed the questions a bit differently, which would have probably given him a different answer. In particular I will argue that Plato might have done better to ask whether virtue could be learned instead of asking whether virtue can be taught. The Meno begins with Meno asking Socrates whether virtue can be taught. The argument then is drifted then to another question, what is knowledge. Then Meno proposed an interesting paradox: one can never find out anything new: either one knows it already, in which case there is no need to find it out, or else one does not, and in that case there is no means of recognizing it when found (Plato 1997, 80d-e.). In other words if one does not already know what arà ªte (virtue) is, he cant even search for it, because if he does not know what it is already, then even h he searches, he wont be able to know when one has found it. Socrates suggests a way to solve this dilemma which is based on the Pythagorean view of the immortal soul. According to that notion, the soul, after the physical body dies, is reincarnated and thus never destroyed. If one can never acquire any new knowledge and at the same time it is obvious we are always learning new things, then it is be concluded that learning mus t be a matter of recollection of past life experiences and knowledge. In other words there is no such thing as teaching, but only remembering. In the Meno he demonstrated with a young slave boy who apparently didnt have any knowledge of geometry. By asking the young boy questions he managed to show that the boy had knowledge of certain mathematical theorems. Meno asks again his original question, that is whether one can be taught virtue, or one gets virtue by nature or in some other way. Socrates consents to proceed but argues that they need a common ground due to the fact that neither of them can say at this point what virtue is. Then Meno is made agree that if virtue is not knowledge then it cannot be taught, and if a knowledge then it can be taught. He points out that one can teach something only if one knows what it is that he is teaching. Someone who does not know himself how to drive a car seems unlikely to be able to teach someone else how to. Socrates and Meno much agree that there is no one that truly knows what is meant by virtue and because of this reason cannot be taught. According to Socrates, If virtue could be taught, we should be able to know not only those who teach it but also those who learn from them, which in truth we cannot easily do (Plato 1997, 96c). Socrates claims that teachers for horsemanship, medicine, etc. exist and everybody recognizes these as genuine teachers, whereas people dont agree about whether the Sophists really do teach virtue. Socrates goes one to speak of Thucydides, who had two sons, neither of which was considered to be virtuous. However, it is said that Thucydides educated his children in many different disciplines, but it seems that he could not find a teacher of virtue even though he found teachers for other aspects of life he found valuable. He could not teach it himself either, even though he himself was known to be virtuous. Therefore it seems virtue cannot be a form of knowledge. In order for something to be knowledge, someone must be able to teach it to others. Socrates concludes that virtue cannot be taught an d that there is no means or method by which virtue can be acquired. Virtue is simply shown as coming to us, whenever it comes, by divine dispensation (reference?) In my view, if Plato had framed the questions somewhat differently, he might have gotten a different answer. That is Plato could have better asked whether virtue could be learned instead of asking whether virtue can be taught. What I mean to say is that asking whether one can be taught something entails that the relationship of a student and a teacher, whereas asking whether something can be learned implies only that there is a student (whose life experiences might be said to be a teacher.) For example, to ask whether I was taught geometry is to ask whether a teacher taught me geometry. Whereas to ask whether I learned geometry is simply to ask whether I learned it, whether or not I was taught it by a geometry teacher or learned geometry myself either from (lets say) a book or by some other means. Learning can come in various forms. In order to learn something, one does not require a teacher in the strict sense. For instance, learning can be achieved from studying people who have virtue and yet the latter may not be aware that they are studied. So a man may be learning virtue, and his teachers may be virtuous, even though the teachers might not even be alive. Another form of learning is experience. Virtue may be learned through personal experience. In this example, the teacher would be both life experiences and the reflective nature of the learner. There is still another form of learning. A man can learn, even if he cannot offer an explanation of how he learned or of what he exactly knows. For instance, after someone has been through a particular problem in his life, he can then detect that a relative of his is going through the same problem. And although he can know it, he cannot give an explanation of how he recognized it. Another example is that of the musicians or painters who have learned their craft and are able to perform well, but find it almost impossible to give an explanation of what they have learned. So the question whether virtue can be taught is a much different, and narrower, than whether virtue can be learned. Plato is right in suggesting that virtue cannot be taught. I believe that we all know or have heard of people who recite rules of virtue (such us be compassionate or be honest,) but find it impossible to put them into practice. Certainly in this sense virtue cannot be taught. A mentioned above, having the ability to be virtuous is like having the ability to be musical, which is to some extent instinctual. So, for example, it could be argued that knowing when, for example, to offer help to a friend when he needs it, is a matter of instinct or judgment. All of this means that although virtue may not be taught, this is not to say that virtue cant be learned. Plato suggests the notion that virtue is inborn. Certainly this is to some degree true. There are some people with an exceptional capacity for virtues like compassion, etc. since they were born. Yet others look as if they are born with little to no moral conscience, which seems to be necessary for virtue to exist. However what this means is just that the foundation of virtue is inborn, not that it cant be learned. In the same way that we comprehend the fact that one can be preached how to be virtuous but fail to be virtuous in practice, the converse is also possible: people can refine the ways they understand virtue, they may become more virtuous by reflective practice, and their views of how to act in a virtuous way changes significantly as they grow up. In my view, if Plato put his questions in a different way (that is if he had asked whether virtue can be learned, instead of whether virtue can be taught) he might have found a much more affirmative answer. Bibliography

People Are Sheep :: miscellaneous

People Are Sheep Every person everywhere in the United States is consumed by what the media tells them: what to do, what to wear, where to go to shop. People will swear up and down that they want to have their own identity, and they will even go to great lengths to attain it, yet, inevitably, they all fall into a â€Å"clique† with millions of others. Nobody wants to be a follower, but in terms of youth culture, nobody can really be a true leader. Nobody, that is, except the media. The American people, young and old alike, line up like sheep and follow the media shepherd wherever it leads. After a pathetic plea from my 13-year-old brother, I reluctantly agreed to take him and a few of his buddies to the mall to shop for basketball shoes. Although taking a slew of opinionated, loud-mouthed, smart-aleck teenagers shopping was not high on my priority list, spending time with my little brother was. So off to the mall we went. On the way the increasingly louder arguments over which shoes were the best made me want to drive my car straight into a tree. The one topic that kept rolling media presuaded tounges was that of the many different shoes they had seen on television. That’s when it hit me, my brother and his buddies were being led to slaughter --the mall-- by the media shepherd. As we pulled into the parking space at the mall, I barely had time to put the car in park before my crazed passengers, a pack of teenaged hooligans, barreled out of the car and raced for the door. By the time I caught up to my mob of shoe shoppers they were already in a shoe store, each with a different shoe in hand. My little brother had already strapped a pair of hideous shoes to his feet and was bouncing around the store acting like he was Kobe Bryant. I asked him if he liked the way the shoes looked, or even if they were at least comfortable, and his reply was, â€Å"who cares? Kobe Bryant wears them so they’re awesome!†. I gave the shoes a closer inspection, because if they were good enough for Kobe Bryant, they were good enough for my little brother. At least in my little brothers mind. When I peered at the price tag my knees got weak, and I nearly fell over.

Ethical Scrapbook

In any profession unethical behavior can be present, it is ultimately up to the individuals. They have to decide what is ethically right and not take short cuts or engage in unethical behavior. The banking profession, such as bank tellers, is exposed to large amounts of money. They can choose to be ethical and not attempt to steal from their clients, or they can act unethically by choosing to steal money. Another profession is research, there are conditions that exist for unethical behavior. When researchers conduct experiments, they usually write a report about their results.If the results do not go in the direction that they wanted them to, this gives the researchers an opportunity to act unethically. They can either choose to act ethically, and report the true results from the experiment, or they can choose to act unethically, and report the results in a manner that will benefit them. â€Å"In the process of making decisions regarding their professional behavior, psychologists mu st consider this Ethics Code in addition to applicable laws and psychology board regulations.In applying the Ethics Code to their professional work, psychologists may consider other materials and guidelines that have been adopted or endorsed by scientific and professional psychological organizations and the dictates of their own conscience, as well as consult with others within the field. If this Ethics Code establishes a higher standard of conduct than is required by law, psychologists must meet the higher ethical standard.If psychologists’ ethical responsibilities conflict with law, regulations or other governing legal authority, psychologists make known their commitment to this Ethics Code and take steps to resolve the conflict in a responsible manner in keeping with basic principles of human rights† (American Psychological Association, 2014). Another profession is professional sports, the athlete could take enhancement drugs to improve themselves at the sport, like taking steroids which is also against the law.Most athletes choose to  do what is ethical and stay away from drugs to ensure that they keep their jobs and the respect of their fans. In medical professions, doctors could take the unethical route and give their patients their drug of choice just to satisfy them, but doctors that admire what they do will be ethical and give the patient what they need and get them help if they are showing signs of drug abuse. â€Å"Within the patient-physician relationship, a physician is ethically required to use sound medical judgment, holding the best interests of the patient as paramount† (The Patient-Physician Relationship, 2001).Pharmaceutical companies are a profession that also has to choose to be ethical or unethical. The individuals that work for pharmaceutical companies are tempted to take medication for their own use. They may steal medications to sell them to make money for themselves. Politics also can contribute to ethical or une thical behavior. If politicians do not like something, they try to hide it from Americans, or they may not tell the whole truth of certain facts. Politicians are famous for covering all of the facts up.

Different Country, Different Culture Essay

A country is just like an onion; the innermost skin is Culture. Culture is like the soul of a country. All countries have their own unique cultures to live by, which means that people who have grown up in different places will have different ways of behaving, different ways of thinking about things and different ways of expressing themselves. Each country has its own culture, and there are many differences between different countries in culture. Those differences make our world a more colorful and exciting place to live. We can have a better understanding of it if we compare the big cultural differences between America and China. According to my two years of study in America and Intercultural Communication Stumbling Blocks by LaRay M. Barna, which talked about the difference between different cultures, I find two big differences in friendship and education. First difference is friendship. Time is often the best way to test friendship and friends. For the Chinese, to know each other for a long time, the communication needs to be at a certain depth, finding out each other’s habits, temperament, similar interests and the common experience of â€Å"suffering†. Then they will make the recognition of each other as a friend in the heart, and they will value this friendship. Once friendship is established, it will be lifelong, and hard to break. Chinese can share almost everything with their friends, for example, when you are in China, at restaurant, you can actually see people fight for the bill. It’s not about showing off to their friends or someone else. It’s just because they want to show their appreciation for their friendship. On the other hand, for most Chinese, we think Americans are â€Å"superficial,† like what Barna said â€Å"They talk and smile too much† (67) and â€Å"Their friendship are, most of the time, so ephemeral compared to the friendship we have at home. Americans make friends very easily and leave their friends almost as quickly† (67). For Americans, in general it seems to them that Chinese and some other people from different countries are â€Å"not necessarily snobs but are very unfriendly,† (67) Because we don’t talk and smile a lot. The reason why Chinese and Americans have a different opinion on friendship is because  our cultures are different. We can’t tell which kind of friendship is right or wrong because there is no such a thing as wrong culture. There are all just different cultures. The second difference is in education.† What you make of your education will decide nothing less than the future of this country.† says a Chinese proverb. As we all know, American and Chinese education systems are different, which creates different culture in turn. American education focuses on the students’ creativity and practical ability. In their classes, the teachers just play a role as leaders. Students do lab homework, group work to find out the answer by themselves. However in China, the school is more like a concert hall. This means that students are completely listeners. Students all focus on the textbook, try to memorize everything from the book, and then get a good score. They hardly come up with their own ideas. That’s why Barna says, â€Å"U.S. students often complain that the international members of a discussion or project seem uncooperative or uninterested†. (66) But both of those two educations’ intentions are good. In my view, we should learn the academic knowledge well, but we should also take part in the school activities, improve our interpersonal skills, and creative thinking, so that, we can prepare well for the future challenges. In one word, each country has its own culture. Although there are many differences between different countries, we should respect them and learn from each other. Especially, in the modern century, each country has to communicate with other countries more than ever. So, we must understand the differences in different countries’ culture well, only in this way, we can get along with each other in peace.

Proctor Gamble Project Essays

Proctor Gamble Project Essays Proctor Gamble Project Essay Proctor Gamble Project Essay The par or stated value of PG’s preferred stock is $1 B. )     The par or stated value of PG’s common stock is $1 C. )     . 975 D. )   In June of 2007 and 2006, 3,131,946 and 3,178,841 of common stock remain outstanding respectively. (p. 52) E. )  Ã‚   â€Å"Our first discretionary use of cash is dividend payments. Dividends per common share increased 11% to $1. 28 per share in 2007. This increase represents the 51st consecutive fiscal year the Company has increased its common share dividend. Total dividend payments to both common and preferred shareholders were $4. 2 billion, $3. 7 billion and $2. 7 billion in 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. † (p. 48) F. )  Ã‚   The rate of return on common stock equity in 2007, equals net income ($10.. 3 billion (converted to 103,000 for the sake of input in a calculator) less preferred dividends (41,797) divided by average common stockholders equity ((66,760 + 62,908)/2) which is 94%. The rate of return on common stock equity in 2006, (8,700,000-161,000/62,908) 135% G. )   The payout ratio for 2007 and 2006 was (Cash dividend divided by net income-preferred dividends (2007: 420,000/$103,000-41,797) is 6. 86. The payout ratio for 2006 (270,000/8,700,000-161,000) is 3. 16 H. )   The market price range of PG’s common stock during the quarter ended June 30, 2007 was $60. 76 to $64. 75 (p. 73)

Factors that considered when chosing a cladding system for a building Coursework

Factors that considered when chosing a cladding system for a building - Coursework Example Additionally, correct assembly of the components is necessary for a satisfactory performance of the system. The choice of the roof and wall cladding significantly influences the appearance of the building. Profile shape, fasteners and colour are particularly important. The profile shape influences the building’s appearance because of its effect on the perceived texture and colour of the cladding (Kassem, Dawood & Mitchell, 2012 p. 1042). The choice fasteners also influence the overall appearance of the building. For this reason, designers must careful consider the location, shape, size and colour of the washers and fasteners. Cladding system usually has a significant contribution to the overall wall insulation values. A number of complex cladding products encompass insulation. For instance, those with higher R-values, which relates to the capability of the material to resist heat flow, can limit bulk insulation between frame members in varied climatic conditions. Cladding fixed to frames, which are lightweight does not contribute to thermal performance irrespective of its mass, since it is on the outside of the building and uninsulated (Pan, Dainty & Gibb, 2012 p. 1244). Using cladding of higher mass in lightweight framing systems can greatly reduce thermal performance. Vermin resistance is usually dependent on the design details of the construction. Compound cladding systems that have EPS foam backing are likely to harbour birds and rats. In addition, termites do not attack reconstituted timber as well as non-timber systems. The minimum performance requirements for the aforementioned factors are entirely established by legislation (Kassem et al., 2012 p. 1048). Therefore, it is essential to consider the already laid policy when selecting a cladding system for a building. Cost of an insulated cladding in a normal industrial or commercial building is of a

American Revolution Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

American Revolution - Essay Example The colonies thought that the government wanted to impose total control over them and make the pay expensively for things that they highly required yet could not afford them. Through the introduction of these Acts, the colonies also believed that the government would later come up with other taxation Acts, which would require them to pay more tax. B. What role did African Americans play during the American Revolution? The African American assisted the American in their revolution battle whereby they participated willingly in the military forces, even though they did this in exchange of their freedom from slavery. At first, the American avoided involving the black in the fight, but it is until when the blacks intervened that the Americans became victorious. Study shows that more than 5000 blacks participated in the battle and that the number of the Americans involved was much lower . C. Describe how the patriot achieved the unity needed to wage the War for Independence?. The patriot decided to make a declaration for independence which enables them bring people together, and gained the corporation they required to engage in the battle for independence . This was successful since, the patriots had power over all regions and population, and because the colonial states had abandoned their former government and chased the British senates away. Therefore, it became necessary to implement a new constitution in every nation .