Sustainability Accounting and Accountability †MyAssignmenthelp.com

Question: Discuss about the Sustainability Accounting and Accountability. Answer: Introduction In essence, sustainability reporting can be considered to be an important part of attainment of maintainable worldwide economy and this essentially has turn out to be a standard practice of businesses of this current era. As such, the way of sustainability recording can enhance overall liability of corporate procedure and therefore can increase trust, enable the procedure of value sharing process based on which a more cohesive community can be developed. Moving further, this study also elucidatesaccounting standard that can explain directives for sustainability recording and the accounting language that declares the regulations. Additionally, this study also aims to evaluate the case of Wesfarmers and systematically evaluates the sustainability reporting exercise in the corporation. Influence of standard AustralianAccounting Standards Board (AASB) essentially does not indicate towards the fact there is no specific responsibility that can be associated to maintenance of sustainability. Nevertheless, AASB is also mindful of obligations to reduce undesirable influences. Nevertheless, AASB essentially does not execute and handle any type of discretionary program, nonetheless, (Information Publication Scheme) (IPS) suggests to adjust the structure of information that can mainly respond to varied requests for accessibility. Annual report of particularly AASB mentions the fact that sustainability reporting on moneys of public sector sticks to explicit dictates of IPSASB announced by (Suggested Practice Guideline Reporting on Sustainability in the Long-Term of a particular Entitys Finances) during the FY2013. Therefore, announcements on sustainability can be witnessed as a process of delivering important info that can help patrons to evaluate financial, environmental in conjunction with soci al value of a business concern. In essence, this can be regarded as the triple bottom line process of reporting. In itself, sustainability reporting helps in delivering rough draft of specific values, morals, doctrines of corporation (Drever et al. 2012). Accounting Language As correctly put forward by Frias?Aceituno et al. (2014) the Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants declared during 2006 and thereafter modified during 2008 was essentially declared byAccounting Professional as well as Ethical Standards Board also referred to as APESB. In essence, this essentially presents different requirements of business concerns to stick to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). In addition to this, survey conducted by KPMG indicates that maximum number of businesses necessarily implements GRI and makes use of different regulations for the purpose of sustainability reporting. Schlegelmilch (2016) opines that reporting structure of particularly Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) essentially serves intent as well as purpose of generally accepted structure for basically reporting on social performance, environmental, economic factors of a corporation. Moreover, GRI structure need to be used by different business concerns irrespective of size as well as location (Globalreporting.org 2017). Sustainability reporting can be reflected as a suggestively developing movement and there are definite leading companies that deliver superior revelations of varied non-financial information. Guidelines on Sustainability reporting requires detailed elucidation of the report content that yet again can help in warranting quality of provided information. Again, GRI framework also contains different indicator protocol indicating performance indicators stated in the directives (Tervonen and Kutvonen 2015). Addition to this, GRI reporting also helps in determining four different factors that need to be disclosed and considered. Particularly, these factors mentioned as per GRI reporting are inevitably inclusiveness of different stakeholders, completeness, materiality as well as suitable context of sustainability. So, reporting framework essentially assimilates economic, social and environmental factors for the purpose of reporting. As rightly indicated by Wagenhofer (2016) consideration of the factor of materiality refers to inclusion of particularly reasonableness as well as estimable impact, risks as well as returns identified by correct investigation by different individuals with noticed proficiency in this specific turf. Moreover, inclusion of identified stakeholders can be regarded as a significant factor of GRI structure. Furthermore, GRI framework also considers sustainability setting that essentially contains detailed comprehension regarding sustainable progress, objective along with reachable information alongside diverse proportions of sustainable development (Bebbington et al. 2014). Consequently, declarations of corporations essentially have the need to properly elucidate the way diverse sustainability topics can be linked to corporations plan, risks together with prospects. This too comprises of the completeness factor in which business concerns have the need to consider complete chain of businesses that is both upstream as well as downstream (Globalrepor ting.org. 2017). Analysis of the case of Wesfarmers Limited Essentially from the sustainability report of the firm Wesfarmers Limited, it can be hereby observed that the corporation continues to generate values for different future actions. However, in other words, it can be hereby said that the company Wesfarmers makes commitments towards proactive management of the community along with environmental influence. This can be broadly categorised as under: People: In this case, the management of Wesfarmers essentially believes in maintenance of relentless focus on delivering safe and secure place of work (Sustainability.wesfarmers.com.au 2017). Moreover, diversity present at Wesfarmers also concentrates on creation of comprehensive work environment by special attention on diversity of gender in addition to inclusion of specific Aboriginal along with people of Torres Strait. Sourcing: Particularly, process of sourcing engages providers as well as ethical ways of sourcing that has to be considered by the corporation Wesfarmers Limited. Essentially, providers/suppliers also make commitment towards creating strong together with enduring relations with diverse suppliers/providers. Apart from this, ways of ethically sourcing intends to carry out the activity of sourcing in an accountable manner by closely working with different suppliers and enhancing social along with environmental exercises (Sustainability.wesfarmers.com.au 2017). Community: As per the sustainability report of the firm, Wesfarmers Limited necessarily makes positive contribution towards the entire community by pledging towards deliverance of product safety in an effectual manner. Environment: According to the sustainability report, it can be hereby mentioned that the management of the firm Wesfarmers Limited attempts to lessen the overall emissions from the operations of the firm. In addition to this, the management also makes attempts to augment the resilience to alterations in the climatic conditions. Besides this, waste management and use of water for lessening the waste for specifically land filling as well as water use to the extent possible (Sustainability.wesfarmers.com.au 2017). Governance: The management of the corporation Wesfarmers Limited intends to maintain vigorous corporate governance strategies in different aspects of business actions. The management Wesfarmers Limited pledges to generate value for different investors, societies along with employees employed in the corporation. Essentially, this business concern believes in generation of long-term value and serve the communities in best possible manner. As such, sustainability refers towards proper comprehension as well as management of the ways that can make certain appropriate execution of activities for creation of values in the close future (Sustainability.wesfarmers.com.au 2017). Other than this, this business concern is also certain of minimizing carbon footprint from their operations and providing probable solutions by supporting clients as well as community all together. Again, this act can assist in unceasingly enhancing superior performance level as publicly reported in given yearly sustainability report. Wesfarmers Limited has improved transparency of different actions in the entire supply process in over and above 3200 workshops in specific audit activity. Again, corporation also focuses on principled sourcing such as maintenance of transparency in the supply chain. Again, this assists in solidification of the associations with different potential suppliers by warranting positivity in functional activities of the firm (Sustainability.wesfarmers.com.au 2017). Issues that can be recognized in the sustainability reporting of Wesfarmers Limited The administration of Wesfarmers is dedicated to proactively handle entire community along with influence of the environment. The business concern Wesfarmers Limited necessarily follows ten significant notions that can be linked to diverse sustainability issues and considered material aspects. Nevertheless, evaluation of the sustainability declarations of the business concern replicates the fact that there are however room for enhancement for safety performance in addition to safety initiatives (Sustainability.wesfarmers.com.au 2017). As such, this indicates towards appropriate execution and observing of the nurse on call service, implementation of hazard identifying app, inspection of execution and performance of particularly Safety Activity Book and voluntary program such as Injury Care 1300 among many others. Unceasing enhancement of the current work safety activities can assist in lessening of fatigue linked to vehicle accidents. Management of corporation Wesfarmers essentially d elivers diverse opportunities to all the workers of Wesfarmers for augmentation of job performance and augmentation of career. In addition to this, the corporation also presently distributes around 59% of the entire wealth for the purpose of pay-out of wages along with salaries together with other perks as well as benefits to all the employees (Sustainability.wesfarmers.com.au 2017). Furthermore, the corporation Wesfarmers Limited also works towards resolving of issues of the relations of the workplace by procedure of maximization of diverse flexibility arrangements to the entire labour force as well as coverage under collective agreements. Sustainability declarations of the company Wesfarmers declares regarding positive influence of the corporation towards community particularly in which corporation operates and manner in which it consistently provides harmless products to different clients that adheres to Australian Consumer Law (Jianu et al. 2015). Conclusion In conclusion, it can be said that sustainability pronouncements by different companies can create clearness, support market to operate ably, specify complete well-being of entire country and can direct towards overall progression of corporation towards maintainable along with all-encompassing growth rate. This study scrutinises standards of accounting that in turn can help in illustrating different decrees for sustainability pronouncements. Besides this, this report also expounds thoroughly impress of sustainability reporting, overall implication and consequence in conjunction with the important notions of sustainability reporting. Furthermore, this study also proposes helps in scrutinizing the operations of Wesfarmers and analytical assessment of sustainability reporting exercises in the corporation. References Bebbington, J., Unerman, J. and O'Dwyer, B., 2014. Sustainability accounting and accountability. Routledge. Drever, M., Stanton, P.A., McGowan, S.C., Raar, J., Sofocleous, S. and Ravlic, T., 2012. Contemporary issues in accounting. John Wiley Sons Australia. Frias?Aceituno, J.V., Rodrguez?Ariza, L. and Garcia?Snchez, I.M., 2014. Explanatory factors of integrated sustainability and financial reporting. Business strategy and the environment, 23(1), pp.56-72. Globalreporting.org. 2017. Global Reporting Initiative. [online] Available at: https://www.globalreporting.org [Accessed 15 May. 2017]. Jianu, I., ?urlea, C., and Gu?atu, I. 2015. The Reporting and Sustainable Business Marketing. Sustainability, 8(1), 23. Schlegelmilch, B. B. 2016. Global Marketing Ethics and CSR. In Global Marketing Strategy (pp. 195-220). Springer International Publishing. Sustainability.wesfarmers.com.au. 2017. 2015.sustainability.wesfarmers.com.au. Retrieved 3 May 2017, from https://2015.sustainability.wesfarmers.com.au Tervonen, N., and Kutvonen, A. 2015. Genuine Sustainability: Opportunity Cost and Outcome Uncertainties in Sustainability Development. In ISPIM Conference Proceedings (p. 1). The International Society for Professional Innovation Management (ISPIM). Wagenhofer, A. 2016. Exploiting regulatory changes for research in management accounting. Management Accounting Research, 31, 112-117.

Fear Essay Example For Students

Fear Essay FearDo all living things fear something? Those with minds surely have many and various fears, but even the simplest organisms must have fear, for fear is such a powerful feeling. Fear is all around us and is felt in every corner of the earth. Fear is the emotion or feeling that a living creature gets when its physical or mental life is interrupted by a change that causes the creature concern. We humans especially, fear many different things: death, disease, old age, commitment, noises in the night, pain, responsibility, work, being too fat or too thin, or any number of other things. Some of our fears are reasonable and rationale, like the fear for our safety so we lock our doors at night, never walk alone on dark streets, and turn on lots of lights to keep the boogie man away. We fear for our health so we diet, exercise, and eat only healthy foods. Our fears can also help us make wise decisions: where to live, what to do with our money, how to raise our children, even what kind of car to drive and whether or not to drive it. Our fears may be sudden like when your kid brother jumps out behind you and yells boo. Peoples fears can be built up over a long period of time, for example, during the cold war millions of people thought that at any moment they would be attacked by the Russians, so they built bomb shelters because of that fear. Some of our fears come straight from ou r imagination. They may appear irrational or silly to others but fear, real or imagined, is still fear. Change goes hand in hand with fear, for change is the cause of all fear. Even positive change can leave one in fear: the first day of school, a new job, moving day, a wedding, the birth of a child. Change, the process of all growth and life, is greeted generally with a feeling of fear. Fears seem to sneak up on us, drenching us in sweat sending our heart rate rocketing, leaving us quaking and shivering. Some fears we see coming and our body and mind prepare to fight or flee. We understand those kinds of fears and can use rational thinking , stress reduction, and plan our actions to combat those fears. Various things help reduce our sense of helplessness, which is a common emotion experienced with fear. One of the things we fear the most is the loss of or lack of control. Even if we really dont have control, we like to think we do, and when we lose that sense of control, fear rushe s in. For example, an alcoholic will say I can quit any time; Im in control. The fear comes when he realizes for the first time that he is an alcoholic and that he is not in control. We all fear uncertainty and the unknown. We arm ourselves against it with candles in the dark, or faith against the uncertainty of death. Then, when we think weve conquered our fear, it comes invading our minds again, let in by a smell or a taste, a sound or a thought Fear is always there, just waiting right under the surface, to awaken those memories which frighten us the most. Fear can come anytime in the silence of the night or in the bright glare of the day. Fear cannot be conquered. We can, however, learn to acknowledge it, respect it, and live with it. Fear makes one think of those who in the face of fear stand courageous and yet still face their fears. Courage becomes the means to see and feel the fear and still go on knowing you are afraid. I used to be afraid of many things; I still would like to run away from many of my fears but, Ive learned to examine my fears and live with them the best that I can. I have a nightlight in the bathroom so I can see if I wake. I wear my seat belt for protection, and sometimes I look in my closet before I go to bed. 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The Strengths and Weaknesses of Focus Group Research Essay Example

The Strengths and Weaknesses of Focus Group Research Essay Focus groups are a prominent method of enquiry, regularly used within the field of social science and in particular, qualitative research. The focus group practice involves a number of participants having an open discussion on a specific topic, set by a researcher. The researcher acts as a moderator to aid discussion by using probes to collect desirable data. This process is recorded and transcripts are used to interpret and analyse given information. Carson et al (2001, p. 114) refers to focus groups as â€Å"A research technique that collects data through group interaction on a topic or topics†. They also suggest that the central distinctive characteristic of focus groups is group interaction, which generates a mass of data, which would be inaccessible without using focus groups. Focus groups are used in many industries to collect ideas and understanding. Carson et al (pg 8) suggest that groups as a social research tool have been used for some time but the term ‘focus group’ was established in the classic study, The Focused Interview by Merton et al (1956). Merton’s study influenced the creation of the procedures that are now accepted as common practice in focus groups. Although this particular method possesses a substantial number of strengths, focus groups also occupy a number of weaknesses that disadvantage the researcher and limit findings which can be discussed in relevance to theories. Firstly, Dawn Snape and Liz Spencer (2003, p. 3) propose that it is important to define the practice of qualitative data before discussing the implications of it. They also suggest that qualitative research is difficult to define and can never entirely be classified. We will write a custom essay sample on The Strengths and Weaknesses of Focus Group Research specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on The Strengths and Weaknesses of Focus Group Research specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on The Strengths and Weaknesses of Focus Group Research specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer They infer that there is a wide consensus that qualitative research is a naturalistic and interpretive approach, with an emphasis on the understanding of the meanings which people attach to phenomena. This point is supported by Alan Bryman, he comments: â€Å"The way in which people being studied understand and interpret their social reality is one of the central motifs of qualitative research. † (Bryman, 1998, P. 8) Snape and Spencer refer to qualitative research as a complex, subjective and observational approach which takes focus on participant’s frames of reference. There are no rules or single accepted way of exerting qualitative research, the methods are dependent on; ontology, the beliefs regarding the social world and epistemology, the beliefs regarding the nature of knowledge. In addition, qualitative research draws on philosophical, psychological and sociological ideas in order to search for in-depth data to aid the explanation of social phenomena. The key argument of qualitative research is that human behaviour is not simply driven by external forces; humans actively contribute to the construction of their own social world. The central purpose of qualitative research is to explore meanings by interpreting data, rather than searching for specific answers by quantifying empirical data. A major critique of qualitative research is the fact that everyone is different and holds and creates their own schemas, so therefore there can be no definitive answer or explanation. The history of qualitative research is also important to acknowledge, in order to place focus groups into context. Traditionally, social science research imitated natural science methods in an attempt to create universally accepted laws. Social science suppresses many philosophical underpinnings, which influenced this consensus. There were three key people implicated in these underpinnings, each pursuing the idea of the previous. The first key philosopher was Rene Descartes (1596-1650), an empirical researcher. In his book, Discourse on Method (1637), Descartes suggested that the search for the truth could be completed by using methods of objectivity, in order to accumulate observable evidence. Following Descartes was another key philosopher, David Hume (1711-1776), also an empirical researcher. Hume also believed that objectivity, as well as unbiased and direct observation, could produce substantial empirical evidence. Lastly, Auguste Comte (1798-1857), a sociologist and empirical researcher, proposed that the invariant laws apparent in natural science were also present in matters of social science. Comte implied that research methods used in natural science were also appropriate to the study of social science and phenomena. Comte influenced 20th Century research paradigms, which resulted in a school of thought called positivism. Positivism states that only observable phenomena count as knowledge. Positivism also promotes scientific research methods and empirical testing of hypotheses. Positivism encouraged the formalising of quantitative research methods, collecting numerical data. However, other philosophical perspectives challenged positivism. Immanuel Kant, (1724-1804), a philosopher, suggested that there were other ways to understand the world. He believed knowledge could be acquired through interpretations and experiences. Other perspectives, such as that of Kant, consequently led to the employment of another school of thought called interpretivism. Interpretivism promotes subjective understanding of meaningful experiences. Interpretivism encouraged the formalising of Qualitative research methods to overcome the limitations that quantitative research possessed. The use of focus groups as a qualitative and interpretive method of enquiry comprises of a number of strengths and weaknesses. One of the most prominent strength of focus groups is the ability to collect both new and rich information. Carson et al (p. 114) suggest that the new results that focus groups produce could not be possible with other methods of enquiry as they do not allow the same sense of exploration. They argue that focus groups are an exploratory and developmental method of enquiry, not limited to just listening to what people have to say but by using interpretation skills, generates insights into the sources of certain behaviours and perceptions. Furthermore, Carson et al (p. 115) argue that focus groups can contribute information that may help to; obtain pre-conceived ideas and stimulate new ideas on, help to diagnose former or potential problems, generate further research ideas and establish how participants discuss and construct their own schema of phenomena. Additionally, they believe that meaningful construct is interpreted from the highlighting, exchanging and revising of opinions, perceptions and differences. Another strength of focus groups is the depth of understanding of the generated information. Carson et al (p. 115-116) imply that depth of understanding enabled by focus group allows a deeper appreciation of the phenomenon. They also outline the fact that focus groups bring together and allow the analysis of diverse opinions rather than a single one, which would generate from other methods of enquiry. The discussion of these opinions, which allow participants to share their own ideas and listen to others, creates a type of forum. This allows the researcher to note the response of one participant to another. As a result, the researcher is at an advantage as they have no need to speculate about differences in participants and data as this is evident within the focus group transcript. Ritchie and Lewis (2003, p. 87) agree with this theory as they imply that allowing the participants of a focus group to refer to their own personal experiences influences them to build upon what other participants have said and refine their own view, this creates a more in depth discussion and findings. However, Silverman (2001, p. 221) argues that researchers should not rely on experience to count as knowledge: â€Å"The assumption that ‘experience’ is paramount is not at all new†¦to focus on ‘experience’ alone undermines what we know about the cultural and linguistic fo rms which structure what we count as ‘experience’. Furthermore, another prominent strength of focus groups as a research tool is flexibility and group interaction. Flexibility and group interaction is the most fundamental and unique aspect of focus groups. Ritchie and Lewis (p. 175) suggest that group interaction is a major strength of focus groups as it allows an open and energetic discussion built on motivation and enjoyment. Ritchie and Lewis (p. 188) also propose that these conditions allow a more truthful debate, which are more in depth and passionate. Ritchie and Lewis explain that group interaction enables participants to work together, quickly developing a ‘synergy’ which allows greater depth of insight into even the most challenging of subjects. This confidence allows the participants to dominate the focus group procedure thus allowing them to determine their own narrative, helping to expose the culture and values of each individual. Ritchie and Lewis describe this strength as â€Å"the most productive phase of the group process. †(Ritchie and Lewis J, 2003, p. 176) Carson et al (p. 16) agree with Ritchie and Lewis by suggesting that â€Å"interaction is a unique strength of focus groups and should improve the quality of the ideas and opinions generated†. They propose that the participants act upon their own comparisons and ideas rather than relying on the moderator as a medium of discussion or speculation. Carson et al further their explanation by emphasizing that the vital strength of focus groups, as a qualitative and interpretive research tool, is its capacity to expose intricate behaviours and motivations. Carson et al infer that this strength is a simultaneous reaction to group interaction. Furthermore, the role of the researcher within this interaction is also advantaged. Ritchie and Lewis highlight the fact that the role of the researcher in the group is more active and physical than in interviews. Denzin and Lincoln (1994, unknown source) agree by stating: â€Å"Qualitative research is a situated activity that locates the observer in the world. † This quote infers that they believe that focus groups allow the researcher to situate themselves and get involved. This is a significant strength of focus groups as it allows the researcher to actively listen then act upon given information by using appropriate probes to gain further or richer information. However, this theory is over shadowed by a weakness of focus groups, the lack of control and high level of unpredictability. Ritchie and Lewis (p. 116) state that sometimes it is difficult for the researcher to dominate a focus group. Participants can easily move from the focal topic of discussion to a topic that they would prefer to talk about; this may have no relevance to the phenomena being researched. Never the less, group interaction, according to Ritchie and Lewis ( p. 175), allows prominent socially accepted views, behaviours and norms to be revealed to the researcher. Ritchie and Lewis refer to this feature as a potentially valuable aspect of data as it allows the researcher to assess the context and vulnerability of the participant’s ideas. However, it is important to note that this data must be monitored and compared to transcripts later on, as the participants generally become more comfortable with expressing less confirming views. This is evident in a prominent weakness of focus groups called demand characteristics. Ritchie and Lewis (p. 185) suggest that participants may realise the intentions of the researcher and as a result give them information that they think they want, instead of their true opinions. This can cause false interpretations and therefore invalid information. Furthermore, Ritchie and Lewis discuss real or imaginary pressure, which can also cause problems; â€Å"a common criticism of focus groups is that the group exerts a pressure on its participants. † (Ritchie. R and Lewis, J, 2003, p. 88). Participants may feel the need to give politically acceptable answers, feel under pressure to conform to other participants or adjust their views to fulfil social norms; this can cause inconsistency in the findings. None the less, another suggestion of why group interaction is a primary strength of focus groups is it allows the advantage of group diversity. Ritchie and Lewis (p. 188) consider tha t group discussion can reveal differences and diversities between participants which awards the researcher with a key opportunity to explore group diversity. Ritchie and Lewis believe that delving into diversity and dimensions of difference can both explain and explore causes, effects and consequences. Additionally, they suggest that by using heterogeneous rather than homogeneous participants, the resulted discussion can provide different perspective and views, which should need no persuasion by the moderator to be aired. However, too much diversity can result in weak data. Ritchie and Lewis (p. 190-191) also discuss that too much diversity can actually inhibit discussion. For example, major diversities in socio-demographic makeup, such as social status, of a group of participants can influence how open the group are. Participants may feel uncomfortable, threatened by others or anxious about the response they may receive. This weakness may make it difficult for the researcher to cover key topics in depth. Ritchie and Lewis emphasise the need for a balance in diversity of the participants Another strength of focus groups is the advantage of a good sample. By using certain participants within a focus group a researcher can gain strong results. Ritchie and Lewis (p. 192) suggest that using participants, who know each other or hold some type of relationship, can trigger pre existing memories which are extremely valuable for exploring and interpreting shared meanings. Furthermore, this set up can create a feeling of a safer atmosphere for participants to air their views or opinions. In comparison, using a sample of strangers can also be comforting for the individuals as they feel they may never see the other participants again therefore feel no need to hold back. However, a weakness in sampling is also present. Ritchie and Lewis (p. 192) note that a substantial problem with using a preconceived group of participants is group norms may dominate, limiting the openness of discussion. Furthermore, they state that any shared meanings may not be expanded on enough, as they may be taken for granted. This may result in the meanings having no value at all. Additionally, strangers may hold back discussion too much and fail to develop a ‘synergy’. The last strength of focus groups as a qualitative and interpretive method of enquiry is the advantage of saving time and money. Carson et al (p. 116) explain that the same number of participants used in other methods of research, such as interviews, can contribute information in the same or less time within a focus group as the latter are conducted in a group setting, rather than in repetitive and tedious, individual settings. Additionally, analysing and transcripts of information only need to be completed once. Consequently, this also saves the researcher money too. All fees are only payable once, such as room hire, or recording equipment. However, Morgan and Krueger (1993) criticise this account by stating that recruiting willing participants for focus groups can be both time consuming and costly unless participants are easily accessible. Many people are reluctant to take part without an incentive, refreshments and even paid travel, which can also be costly. In conclusion, focus groups as a qualitative and interpretive method of enquiry possess a substantial number of strengths and weaknesses. The main advantages are the collection of new information, the depth of understanding, group interaction, strong samples and savings in time and money. However, these strengths are also over shadowed by a number of weaknesses which could interrupt the consistency of data. However, as Carson et al (p. 117) suggest, the mass of advantages of focus groups easily outweigh the disadvantages. This may be because it is evident that focus groups as a method of enquiry, achieve more insight and depth of understanding than would individually be generated. Furthermore focus groups hold a unique strength, group interaction, not found in any other method. Finally, when evaluating the quality of results from a focus group, it is important to remember, as Ritchie and Lewis (p. 196) explain, that the most stimulating and successful focus groups come with experience.

Persuasive Essay Topics For College Students

Persuasive Essay Topics For College StudentsOne of the more important things that you can do is get yourself a list of persuasive essay topics for college students. This can be one of the most important parts of your college admissions essay because you want your essay to be compelling enough to get attention and help you get accepted.You have many different options when it comes to persuasive essay topics for college students. One way to approach this is to look at topics that you are an expert on, but might not be familiar with. Other popular topics are sports, movies, books, and anything that relate to topics that you already know a lot about.One of the most persuasive essay topics for college students is how to use a theme to help you promote your interests. If you have interest in everything from chess to using the Internet, you can come up with a topic that will appeal to both the reader and to admissions officers. Even if you only have knowledge of a couple of subjects, you ca n still find a few themes to make your essay unique.Themes also help because they make the essay personal. It's harder to keep your topic fresh if you are writing it from the perspective of a typical student. Instead, focus on your own experiences, your knowledge, and your interests.College students love references to people. If you can provide these references and allow the reader to get to know you as well, you'll be much more successful. Just be sure to keep your essay focused and not to try too hard.College students love to talk about current events and politics. Themes that are related to these two topics can make a big difference. Talk about different perspectives or help your reader see the argument in another way.Another way to make a big difference is to talk about your life during the current year. This can provide great insight into your character and help the reader understand why you are the right person for the job. Besides, writing about what you're currently doing is very similar to writing about what you've done in the past.When it comes to persuasive essay topics for college students, you want to be sure that you don't overdo it. Make sure you keep your theme's simple, but not less interesting.

Article Summary Essays - Newts, Amphibians, Herpetology, Free Essays

Article Summary Essays - Newts, Amphibians, Herpetology, Free Essays Article Summary In southern California, adult California newts (Taricha torosa)have been found to frequently cannibalize both larvae and egg masses. In turn, for those adult newts that remain in the stream pools after breeding, conspecifics have become one of their main sources of prey in the chaparral stream pools of the Santa Monica Mountains. This study was undertaken to examine whether wildfire-induced sedimentation would provide an alternative prey, such as earthworms, and modify interactions between life stages of T. torosa. A diet analysis, field surveys, and a laboratory experiment provided observations and data for this study. For the diet analysis and field surveys, three sites were studied: Cold Creek Canyon, which was burned in 1993, and Newton Creek Canyon and Trancas Creek Canyon, which were unburned sites and served as controls. Adult newts were collected during the spring and summer of 1992-1996 from Cold Creek and during 1995 from Trancas Creek for diet analysis. A water lavage was used to collect the stomach contents, which were then examined by microscope. In addition, both burned and unburned sites were surveyed and monitored for the availability of both earthworms and conspecifics. In the laboratory experiment, a gravitational flow-through system was used to examine the behavioral responses of larval newts to chemical cues of both adult newts and earthworms. Previous studies had determined that larval newts hid from chemical cues of the adult newts. Through diet analysis, it was found that most of the stomach samples of the adult newts contained conspecifics, earthworms, beetles, and mayflies. Stomach samples from Cold Creek indicated that conspecifics were consumed significantly more often than earthworms were consumed during the two years before the fire(1992, 1993). However, during the two years after the fire (1994, 1995), more earthworms were consumed and conspecifics were eliminated as a food source. In 1996, diet analysis showed a reappearance of conspecifics, but the frequency of earthworms in adult newt stomachs was still greater. Frequency of beetles and mayflies appeared to be similar before and after the fire. In 1995,stomach contents from Cold Creek and Trancas Creek indicated that more earthworms were available at burned sites than at unburned sites. In the laboratory study, it was determined that the larvae tended to hide more when the adult newt was present, but larval hiding appeared to depend on the earthworm c ues. If the earthworms were present, the larvae did not attempt to hide; if the earthworms were absent, the larvae would attempt to hide. In addition, they tended to hide more with adult newts present minus the earthworms than in the company of both. Before the fire, adult newts frequently fed on their own larvae and egg masses. Due to wildfires, stream banks were disrupted causing sedimentation and the input of earthworms in the streams. As a result, earthworms became an alternative prey eliminating cannibalism for two years after the fire. With the availability of the earthworms, larvae and eggs were allowed to focus on development rather than survivorship. This is evident in the two years after the fire for the density of the larvae and egg masses appeared to have increased slightly. However, cannibalism reappeared three years after the fire. By this time, vegetation growth had recovered and the stream banks were more stable resulting in less sedimentation and fewer available earthworms. Perhaps, after a few more years, conspecifics will become a main source of food once again. Bibliography Kerby, L.J. and L.B. Kats. 1998. Modified interactions between salamander life stages caused by wildfire-induced sedimentation. Ecology, 79:740-745.

Heart of Change Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Heart of Change - Research Paper Example All these transformations often require change in order to serve the customers in the most efficient manner. From American Competitiveness (2012), change is not easy to accomplish by managers in the organizations, as most companies believe that change is making people think differently. They more often base their ideas on idealistic, unseen promises of reward that makes it difficult in moving people into action. People often resist change because the risk of change might be seen to be greater than the risk to remain in the same position they were as before. Making people change requires them to have faith that enables them to believe in unseen promises or developments in the company. Moreover, other people resist change because they often want to be associated with people and companies who are identified with the old way. Humans live as social species and always wish to be connected with the people or companies they are familiar with. In addition to the above the employees of compani es fear change because reformers might have hidden agendas that may make them lose their jobs (Schuler 2003). Therefore, change requires competent managers who have to make people feel differently than changing their thoughts. Change therefore would be effective if it makes those to be changed see and feel the change. Companies should be heart centered rather than being mind when effecting change. Thus, winning people’s commitment to change requires managers to engage people emotionally and rationally. Companies do not well understand that emotional change goes a long way to making their workers accept the new ways of doing things in their offices. However, failure to listen to and respond to workers’ rational objections and their beliefs by organizations is a show of disrespect to them and making assumptions that the workers will be aware the importance innovative change would have to them (Costello 2012). By following the right procedure in effecting changes in an or ganization often boosts the morale of employees who feel that their culture is also taken care of. Forcing people to adopt certain changes is a show of lack of respect and the company would not achieve her goals by so doing. He continues to assert that managers and organizations often make mistakes in attempting to make changes. It is true that a few only companies manage in effecting change successfully unlike what happens in other organizations. Poor knowledge of how change should be done often leads to the loss of big sums of money by organizations may cause lots of pain and headache in trying to make workers believe the effectiveness of the change. With regard to this, there are steps that must be followed in trying to effect change. The first is the establishment of the need for change in the organization. As one who is articulating for reforms, the need to make the management and organization trust the need for any change is vital. Through this, the reformer gains enough coope ration. Should this be impossible, the team players would be dissatisfied and would lack a feeling of contentment for the change process. Knowing what complacency implies and coming up with proper strategies to overcoming complacency go hand in hand in establishing a sense of urgency amongst the team players. Next is the establishment of the right members in the team. Members who understand what it takes to bring about change. The members must have the

Society, Community, & Family Impact of Technology Research Paper - 1

Society, Community, & Family Impact of Technology - Research Paper Example Additionally, some modes of communication such as use of smoke and hooting of horns conveyed wrong messages. In connection to this, the paper will provide detailed information on the computer and communication technologies along expounding on their history, development, use, and the conditions of the computer and communication technologies before and after the introduction of technology. As introduced above, technology has advanced extensively in the current society. Almost everything in the current world is run by the aid of machines such as computers and phones (Nayab 1). The effect of technology however is very extensive in the field of communication; many organizations have managed to produce diverse types of computers and phones to enhance the reduction of the whole world into a small village. The process of human communication has undergone many changes over the years, with many diverse path-breaking inventions and findings a lift from one step to another. Pictographs were the first writing materials that were invented to enhance communication in historical times. These writings were on solid materials such as stones and remained immobile. The invention of papyrus, wax and paper led to the invention of printing press in early 15th century. This invention enhanced the transfer of documents from one location to another, allowing uniformity of languages over wide areas (Nayab 1). The latest revolution is the extensive use of electronic technology such as computers and phones. Phones and computers have enhanced the transfer of documents via use of electronic waves and signals. Currently, computers and smartphones are used in communication between people without concern of physical distance. People from different ends of the world also communicate currently via audio, video l inks, and text via aid of correct hardware and software which are products of technological advancement. Communication was a great challenge before the invention