I Designed My Lesson Plan - 864 Words

a.) I designed my lesson plan to be used in first and second grade. This lesson plan was designed to be a cross curriculum lesson about spiders that incorporates the following subject areas: Science, Language Arts, and Visual/Performance Arts. This lesson will be taught during the month of October after students have gained prior knowledge through an insect unit that was taught the month before. (b.) The content object that I used in this lesson was for students to be able to identify important information about spiders. I think that providing students with background knowledge prior (teaching a month long unit on insects) would assist students when it comes time to do a unit on spiders. I think that the most challenging aspect for this lesson would be the vocabulary words. The vocabulary list that I have complied varies in difficulty and I believe that some of the words would be more challenging to some of the students. I would ensure that these words were taught previously in the insect unit in order for students to become familiar with these words. I would also have prior knowledge of my student’s abilities and provide individualized word lists that match the student’s ability. In addition, I would stock the student library with a variety of books about spiders that contain the vocabulary words, and utilize various center activities to reinforce the lesson o bjectives for this unit. The content object that I created is both measureable and observable and theShow MoreRelatedThe Lesson Plan On The United States Civil War1704 Words   |  7 Pages This lesson plan has been designed for an eleventh grade social studies class with the content of the lesson plan focusing on the United States Civil War. The reason I chose to create this specific lesson place was because I eventually want to be a social studies teacher in a high school. The lesson plan has been constructed in a way that allows for the teacher to present the information students are required to know with individual and group work, for a diverse learning experience. In order toRead MoreInterdisciplinary Early Childhood Education Standard II Rationale for IECE KTS II789 Words   |  3 PagesInterdisciplinary Early Childhood Education Standard II Rationale For IECE KTS II, I selected a Classroom Management Plan (CMP) that demonstrates my ability to create and maintain an emotionally and physically healthy safe environment that supports full inclusion. The CMP task has two components. One is an Inclusive Learning Environment that I designed and includes an indoor and outdoor floor plan for an inclusive environment. The report explains the principles and context for preparation of theRead MoreAn Iep Meeting And Learn How The Meeting Is Conducted847 Words   |  4 PagesI did not have a chance to sit in an IEP meeting and learn how the meeting is conducted. I am curious to learn the counselor position in an IEP meeting. Due to the time period I started practicum, I was not able to learn about the high school application process. When I started practicum in February, the applications for high school were submitted. My site supervisor did not have a classroom lesson to present while I was completing my hours. I want to learn how to conduc t a classroom lesson and connectRead MoreQuestions On My Lesson Plan969 Words   |  4 Pagesyour lesson connect (p. 113) to the students’ prior knowledge, the real world, to action, and to participants? (1.) My day two lesson plan connects to the prior knowledge because it builds off the same skill as the previous day (Lesson plan day one). My lesson plan is building from the understand out of prior knowledge of multiplication and subtraction. I used a formative assessment in my lesson plan to help guide instructions and to determine comprehension. Scaffold was used in my lesson planRead MoreMy Career Plan For Teaching English1731 Words   |  7 PagesMy degree program at UCO has been focused on teaching English as a second language to adults; however, my career plan includes teaching English literature and language at secondary level. I plan to use my degree when students who are non-native speakers of English are a part of my classes. In these cases, I will use altered mainstream curriculum to teach English, a method known as Content-Based Instruction (CBI). While observing an English composition and research class, I encountered an instructorRead MoreTelling Time Is A Lifelong Skill That Is Used From A Young Age?1226 Words   |  5 Pagesearly years of learning. I am currently doing my placement in a Year One and Two class where a number of their mathematics lessons are based on time. I was able to observe the students’ learning and designed a lesson on time telling based on their level of mathematical understanding. The students are of mixed abilities and perform at different levels - which is why I created a lesson plan that is flexible and provides room for enabling and extending of learning. In the lesson, children were able toRead MoreChapter Iii:. Methods. Introduction. Chapter Two Discussed1701 Words   |  7 Pagescreation of a scope and sequence for the use of an elementary media specialist teaching grades kindergarten through fifth. Project two is the culmination of 24 step- by- step lessons that integrate with the scope and sequence. Lastly, project three includes 24 assessment options that correspond with each of the 24 step-by- step lessons. The culmination of all three of these products will include one comprehensive 21st century curriculum to be adopted by any media specialist teaching kindergarten throughRead MoreMy Lesson Plan For The 21st Century Learning Process1383 Words   |  6 PagesIntroduction My lesson plan is designed to help students learn how to write articles correctly and in a professional way. Future journalists have to know how to write articles properly and gather a story fully in a amount of time. My redesigned lesson plan consists of, management, instruction and activity, and closure and reflection. These three categories are very important in a lesson plan. I added these in my lesson plan because they make the plan come to life so I can educate my students theRead MoreStages Of Cognitive And Moral Development810 Words   |  4 PagesIntelligences To meet my students’ needs, I will begin supporting them psychologically, academically and develop classes that appeal to a wide range of different bits of intelligence. I am going to develop assorted techniques to construct my lesson activities that allow students to relate to the subject matter in ways that fit their interests, learning styles and strengths. I have many students who show abilities in different areas of intellect consequently I will let them work in collaborativeRead MoreMy Teaching Philosophy Of Education1486 Words   |  6 PagesMy teaching philosophy of education is being able to recognise that all children learn in different and unique ways. I believe that all students should have a safe learning environment which enables them to grow physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. As a teacher, I aim to act as a guide for student learning and provide demonstrations and understanding to all students. More specifically as a physical education teac her, I aim to bring a positive and encouraging attitude to the students and

Argumentative Essay On Abortion - 1077 Words

Abortion has been one of the hottest debates for many years now. Abortion is the process of taking the life of an innocent unborn child resting harmlessly in their mothers womb. Abortion is known to be a sensitive topic, but like the conservative political commentator Ben Shapiro said, â€Å"Facts dont care about your feelings† (qtd. in Berrien). Pro-choice supporters deny the facts that abortion is wrong and disgusting. Abortion is an evil act and it should be made illegal. The most controversial parts of the abortion debate is when life actually begins. A human life begins at the moment of conception. Biologically, the baby has life because of the growth that is occuring. A policy has been made by the Department of Health and Human†¦show more content†¦Abortion does not only kill babies, it kills them painfully. The baby has enough spinal reflexes, in just two months where it can feel pain. The baby will try to position its body away from these vicious tools trying to take its life. In some cases, the baby will open its mouth and try its best to scream in pain. During the abortion process, anesthesia is given to not only the mother, but also the baby. This was made a requirement by the Fetal Pain Prevention Act of 1998 (Fact #13). If someone was trying to kill one all of a sudden one that would be called, murder. If it happens to a baby in the womb, it is also murder. It is not magically a right that the mother has. It does not matter whether the person is 8 weeks old or 64 years old. Killing another human is murder regardless. Over one million innocent babies have their lives taken away from them every year. The most common reasons these mothers give for having an abortion is because they simply just do not want a baby. These mothers decide to take another life, because they do not want to take the responsibility. It does not matter if it was a mistake or not. Abortion is not a contraception. Pregnancy is a risk taken when one decides to have sexual intercourse (Pamf). It is a known fact that most contraceptives do not work one hundred percent of the time. Why are the babies being the ones punished? It is not the babys fault that the parents are selfish human beings that do want toShow MoreRelatedAbortion Argumentative Essay : Abortion934 Words   |  4 PagesJensen English April 29, 2014 Abortion Argumentative Essay On average about 41.6 million unborn children are aborted every year. Abortion is killing an unborn baby and it should be illegal. Abortion is wrong because it supports irresponsibility by parents. It gives the unborn children no choice or opportunity at life. In addition, instead of abortion, parents could put up the child for adoption, benefiting people that cannot have children of their own. Abortion supports irresponsibility byRead MoreArgumentative Essay: Abortion1075 Words   |  5 PagesIn my argumentative Essay, I am arguing that abortion is wrong and not to be mistaken with Abortion should be made illegal. I will explain later why I have made this statement. Abortion is the termination of an unborn child in its mothers womb for up to twenty four weeks of the pregnancy or in special circumstances e.g. Disability diagnosis a termination right up until the mother goes in to labour. I think the above definition is an easier and less harsh way of saying that abortionRead MoreAbortion - Argumentative Essay1093 Words   |  5 PagesARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY ‘ABORTION Our world today is full of unsolved, devisive and controversial issues. Most of them relate to our morals, ethics and religion, thus creating a very strong ‘yes and ‘no, or ‘good and ‘bad side. Like the Chinese Yin and Yang sign, abortion has a very prominent ‘black and ‘white side but also contains traces of each in the alternating colour. This shows that if you were to come to any kind of conclusion on abortion, there would still be a downside toRead MoreArgumentative Essay On Abortion1304 Words   |  6 PagesIn this argumentative essay I would like you, the reader to consider a public issue from my perspective and my belief system on the matter. I’ll be supporting my view on a common and overlooked procedure conducted by women and medical doctors within a walk in clinic and home. This procedure is known as an Abortion, also known as a voluntary abortion. The definition provided by Dictionary.com is  Ã¢â‚¬Å"the removal of an embryo or fetus from the uterus in order to end a pregnancy.† There have been manyRead MoreArgumentative Essay On Abortion1380 Words   |  6 PagesAbortion the deliberate termination of a human pregnancy, most often performed during the first 28 weeks of pregnancy. Abortion is one of the most common medical procedures preformed in the United States each year. More than 40% of all women will end a pregnancy by abortion at some time in their reproductive lives. Abortion, it is simply the one of the most debated issue in our society today. â€Å"Is abortion bad?† â€Å"Is the fetus a baby?† â€Å"Why is it bad to kill a fetus if it’s not living?† The simpleRead MoreArgumentative Essay On Abortion1546 Words   |  7 Pagesmother.† Abortion is the way of ending pregnancy by removing the fetus or embryo before it can survive outside the matrix, which can also allow women to choose whether they want to become a mother or not. However, people have developed the controversy about abortions. Abortion debate is an ongo ing debate which has involved moral, legal, biological and religious status of the induced abortion. In this controversy, there are two groups emerged. The group of people who hold the opinion that abortion shouldRead MoreArgumentative Essay On Abortion1364 Words   |  6 PagesAbortion is known as the termination of human pregnancy. There are mixed opinions from the public on whether abortion is considered murder or not. This topic has always been controversial and there is no sign of it being left alone. There are two groups of people related to abortion. Those are pro-life and pro-choice, pro-life oppose abortion and pro-choice is for abortion. There have been many court cases on the topic of abortion, such as Roe v. Wade, Doe v. Bolton, Baird v. Bellotti, and HarrisRead MoreArgumentative Essay On Abortion1011 Words   |  5 Pages Abortion is the termination of a human pregnancy. â€Å"More than 60% of the world’s population lives in countries where induced abortion is permitted either for a wide range of reasons or without restriction as to the reason. In contrast, 26% of all people reside in countries where abortion is generally prohibited.† as stated by The World’s Abortion Laws Map. Abortion is appalling and should be outlawed. Not only is it the excretion of a fetus, what a baby has developed from, from the uterus by naturalRead MoreArgumentative Essay On Abortion979 Words   |  4 PagesAbortion is one of the most well-known and debated topics in today’s society. Although so many people seem to have such a strong opinion on abortion, there are many teens today who don’t really understand what abortion actually is. With today’s technology, though, our understanding of it is also growing. According to Merriam Webster, abortion means the termination of a pregnancy after, accompanied by, resulting in, or closely followed by the death of the embryo or fetus. (https://www.merriam-websterRead MoreArgumentative Es say On Abortion964 Words   |  4 PagesTexas Abortion As a sophomore, you are used to getting texts asking about what homework is due tomorrow. I never expected to get a text from my best friend saying she was pregnant and scared because she did not know what to do. I grew up in the catholic faith, and pre marital sex is not accepted, and abortion was blasphemy towards life. But my best friend grew up in a pro choice family, and later told me that she received an abortion. I was confused about her choice and how it was legal for her

Netflix Case Study & Management Style

Questions: 1. How did Hastings change his use of communications in sending and receiving messages from Pure Software to Netflix?2. How did Hastings change his use of feedback from Pure Software to Netflix?3. How did Hastings change his use of coaching guidelines from Pure Software to Netflix?4. Which conflict management style did Hastings tend to use at Pure and Netflix?5. In making a deal with Epix, which conflict management style was most likely used by Netflix?6. How would you improve Netflixs product offerings (i.e., what things cant you watch that you would like to watch) or processes (i.e., how can it improve its delivery or service)?7. Which level or levels of analysis and leadership paradigm are presented in this case, and did Hastings use the management or leadership paradigm?8. How did Hastings Big Five model of personality leadership traits change from Pure Software to Netflix?9. Which University of Iowa leadership styles did Hastings use at Pure Software and Netflix?10 Explain how p ower, organizational politics, networking, and negotiation are, or are not, discussed in the case? Answers: Executive Summary In a competitive environment, leadership is one such attribute which defines the personality of a person, and to a large extent drives the overall future of an organization. Leadership often defines the way an organization functions and organizational strategy is made. Case study on Netflix clearly underlines this fact through example of Reed Hastings-CEO, Netflix. Hence, through analysis of this case study, various aspects related to leadership will be discussed and how his leadership style can be mapped with existing leadership styles. Introduction Leadership is one of the most sought after attribute in an individual in present time. However irony is that not every individual has leadership traits. Due to this reason, there have been several organisations which either fail to grow or climb the ladder of success and growth just because of their leadership (Doughty, 2013). Purpose of this report is to understand the concept of leadership and governance through case study of Netflixs CEO Reed Hastings. This report will also elaborate various aspects related to leadership as a personal attribute, and how it can impact the organisation in future. 1. Based on the case study of Netflix, it can be clearly derived that during Pure Software not only Reed Hastings followed an autocratic style of leadership, but his communication was also not employee friendly (Licata et al, 2014), Which meant, that he was not appreciative of new suggestions from other employees. Even though his autocratic behaviour was not verbal in nature, but his body language did reflect his behaviour of being strict, and non-receptive to new suggestions (Keller, 2011). At Pure, Hastings was primarily just sending messages to get things done his way. But at Netflix, he changed to being much more receptive to receiving messages by listening to others. He is also more honest and direct with employees, and this is conveyed through communications.Overall, his communication in Pure software was dominating, and one sided. On other hand in Netflix he completely transformed his way of communication, and was receptive to suggestions from others, and didnt criticize it if he found the suggestions totally out of place, in fact he focused more on being employee friendly by listening and discussing their inputs, such scenario clearly reflects the change in the way Reed Hastings transformed his communication style. From being assertive, he became more receptive in nature and the entire flow of communication was bi-directional in nature, which means that he not only instructed his employees, but was equally open to their inputs and suggestions. Reed Hastings in Netflix focused more on employee friendly environment which impacted his communication as well as leadership style. Such situations are always beneficial for employees and organisations growth as it fosters an environment of mutual respect and camaraderie. 2. In Pure Software, Hastings approach was more in-the face of employees, and there was hardly any acceptance of suggestions. Even though it is not mentioned explicitly in the case study, but it can be clearly assumed that work environment in Pure Software must have been negative and full of anxiety due to leadership and communication style (Lussier Achua, 2012). Such organizations might function smoothly on surface and perform well; however in long run it becomes difficult for such organisations to face problems such as attrition etc. In case of Hastings tenure in Pure Software it can be clearly seen that he never appreciated any out-of-box or unconventional ideas and always shot it down, behaviour like this might impact the employee motivation. However, hasting himself realised the shortcoming of his approach and took it as a feedback for his new venture in form of Netflix. Essentially, he went from not using feedback to using it. At Pure, Hastings was not open to feedback (Dess e t al, 2006). He couldnt take criticism. At Netflix he used to actively seek out ideas and advice from his employeesfeedback. Also, instead of putting others down for ideas that seem silly to Hastings, he asked questions to dig deeper for more information and to see if that idea was of any benefit to organisation. It can be said, that for an effective leader, one of the most important attribute is the ability to accept his shortcoming, and rectify it quickly. In case of Hasting same was the case as he used the feedback from Pure Software effectively to improve his relationship with employees of Netflix and created an employee friendly environment. 3. Hastings completely transformed his coaching guidelines from Pure Software to Netflix. Hasting initially founded Pure Software and followed an autocratic style of leadership. In autocratic style of leadership, the coaching guidelines are not follower friendly. Hence the coach is generally pushing his thoughts and ideas on his follower making the entire communication unidirectional. Similar was the case with Hastings. He not only pushed his idea on to his employees of Pure Software, but also embarrassed them, if by any chance they came up with certain unconventional or silly idea. Such kind of coaching environment mainly restricts the scope of innovation and hinders growth of a friendly environment where both employee as well as owner of the organisations are equally participative in the process of coaching. However, after Hastings sold Pure Software and founded Netflix he clearly realised this gap in the way he coached his employee (Rothaermel, 2013). That is why, in the case stud y also it is mentioned, that his heart was not actually in continuing Pure Software. After realisation of the gaps, he made his coaching style more follower friendly where there was a two way communication and followers (employees) were also allowed to come up with new ideas, and if an idea didnt have any outcome then Hasting instead of reprimanding that employee, asked the possible solution, which is a commendable leadership attribute (Shadraconis, 2013). Overall, it can be said that Hasting, focused on making his coaching guideline more towards a mentor-mentee format, rather than leader-follower style. This helps the organisation in a major way, as employee feel more connected with its leadership and contribute more towards the organisational growth. 4. According to Thomas, K.W., and R.H. Kilmann there are five conflict management styles. These styles are accommodating, avoiding, collaborating, competing and compromising. Based on the case study it can be clearly seen that Hastings used avoiding style of conflict management. When avoiding type of conflict management strategy is applied, then the person simply avoids the issue, however it is important to know that by doing this he doesnt helps the other party to reach its goal. Thus, in Pure Software, Hastings simply avoided the suggestions or issues rose by his employees and didnt pay much attention to others opinion. Issue with this strategy is that it is not beneficial from long term perspective, as it can lead to ignorance of some critical issue which might appear to be trivial initially. In Netflix however, Hastings realized the shortcomings of his approach, due to which he transformed his conflict management style from avoidance towards collaboration. This style promotes a win-win scenario where both parties involved in any particular issue or argument look towards a solution which might be beneficial for both the sides. Similarly, Hastings in Netflix stopped embarrassing people for giving any random suggestions, instead he sat with them and discussed about a possible way to achieve the suggested method. Such collaboration helps the employees by boosting their confidence (Jeyakumar, 2014). Hence it can be said that being participative at Netflix implies a more negotiating or collaborating conflict style. 5. Epix is mainly a three-studio venture formed by top three studios of Hollywood namely Paramount, Lions Gate and MGM. Considering the fact that every year these three studios movies which do a business of billions of dollars across the world, it is easy to understand that in such deal Epix had an upper hand on Netflix, as it is Netflix which needs Epix more than other way around. In such scenario, it becomes obvious that out of five types of conflict management style, Netflix must have opted for accommodating style. This is the style when one party cooperates to a high degree, and at times at its own expense. Important point to understand is that this style is applicable in a scenario when any one of the party is either expert or has a better solution. In case of Epix deal, it can be clearly seen that Epix had an advantage, as it had the content which Netflix can use for its customer, and due to important of this association, this type of conflict management style becomes even more relevant, as it helps in preserving the future association among both parties (Puccio et al, 2010). Hence based on case study, it can be concluded that accommodating type of conflict management style was used by Netflix in case of deal with Epix. 7. In terms of services and product, Netflix is already offering host of services from DVD delivery via mail, to streaming of content through internet (Latham Piccolo, 2013). Currently Netflixs streaming services are extremely popular. However, there is still scope of improvisation in this service. For example, in order to avail streaming services one has to be connected through the internet. In future Netflix can further create innovation in this service by introducing a new concept of time based recording (Buckingham, 2012). Hence, as part of this service, if user streams a movie of online TV show then he can have the option to download it simultaneously. Important point in these new services will be its pricing. Streaming in current form can remain as it is, however in case if user wants to download it, then he might have to pay extra cost, almost equivalent to cost of DVD or Blue-Ray disc. In coming future, trends are clearly indicating that internet based streaming and storing content in digital format is the future. Which means more and more people will move away from physical devices such as DVD etc. towards use of internet to consume digital content. In such circumstances, it becomes logical for Netflix to find an alternative for its DVD line of business as well; this will help it in safeguarding its future business strategy. 8. There are several levels of analysis and leadership paradigm, which are presented in this case. This can be understood by example of Pure Software itself. Initially Hastings founded Pure Software and followed an autocratic style of leadership, due to which his behavior towards his employees was very unfriendly. During his stint as CEO Pure Software, Hastings didnt welcome suggestions or inputs from his employees, and rather ridiculed their efforts. This autocratic leadership paradigm is not beneficial for employees of an organization, as they might feel demotivated. When Hastings sold Pure Software and initiated Netflix as a new venture, then he realized that the management approach he adopted in Pure was rather hierarchical in nature and had potential of creating lots of conflict and unrest within organization. He himself didnt like the kind of work environment he created (Bird Wang, 2011). That is why in Netflix is started with an exactly opposite approach of leadership or management and that as democratic in nature. Hence unlike being an autocratic leader where leader tell his employees what to do and closely supervises them, in Netflix Hastings encouraged participation of employees in decisions, and worked in close association with them. Thus it can be said that Hastings intentionally shifted from autocratic to democratic style of management which not helped him as a leader, but also helped the new organization to grow rapidly (Evens, 2013). 9. According to Big Five model of personality, following are the attributes which are represented by below diagram. Figure 1: The Big Five Model of Personality Based on the Big Five Model, it can be clearly interpreted that there were subtle changes in traits in leadership attributes of Hastings from Pure Software to Netflix. In Pure Software Hastings had Surgency (dominance) as the major leadership trait, due to which he always closely supervised and monitored his employees, and hardly accepted any suggestions from them (Avolio Yammarino, 2013). For urgency, Hastings level of dominance decreased as he went from an autocratic style at Pure to using a participative style at Netflix. For agreeableness, he became more sociable and sensitive (not putting employees down) as he improved his emotional intelligence at Netflix. For adjustment, Hastings was more stable as he had more patience in dealing with ideas that he thought were silly (Lsted, 2012). For conscientiousness, he used more integrity as he was more honest and direct with employees at Netflix. For openness, Hastings was more flexible in seeking feedback at Netflix. 10. As per University of IOWA leadership styles, Hastings was an autocratic leader in Pure Software. Hence as an autocratic leader, Hastings had a complete control on his employees, and micro-managed all their activities. He also never welcomed their suggestions and feedback, and often ridiculed them. This kind of leadership style is not recommended in present organizational environment. Today in an era of tough competition, retention of skilled and valuable employee resources is extremely critical for an organization, but leadership styles like being autocratic is a big hurdle for organization. That is why it is never suggested in present scenario for a leader to follow an autocratic style of leadership (Mayson, 2012). However, Hastings followed democratic style of leadership in Netflix, which was a complete change from Pure Software. Democratic style of leadership was more focused on participation of employees and avoided close monitoring of their activities. In a way it can be said that this style of leadership promotes an environment of harmony and collaboration, and also leads to a relatively flat organizational structure. Depending on the size of organization this leadership style can be applied. It is important to understand that such kind of leadership styles is generally more successful in smaller organization. That is why Netflix was able to successfully take advantage of this style of leadership 11. With context to case study, it can be said that power is surely discussed as at Pure, Hastings used his position power and coercive power with pressure tactics to get things done his way. But at Netflix, he changed to give more power to employees by using more personal power through participation in leadership with their tactics. Although Netflix does have organizational politics and Hastings is an effective networker, the case didnt discuss these topics (DuBrin, 2013). In making a deal with Epic, and future deals to add more programming content, negotiation must take place. Also, there is no mention of organizational politics and networking in the case study, as the case study majorly focused on the aspect of Hastings leadership styles, his transformation from one particular style to another, and how he was able to innovate and foresee upcoming future changes in the industry he was active in (Wombwell et al, 2011). In a way it can be said that the case study is focused on analys is of facts which contributed to success of Netflix and Hastings leadership in general. Conclusion Based on the case study, and analysis of various aspects, it can be clearly seen that how leadership style plays a major role in success (or failure) of an organization. Even though it is not necessary that a tough leadership style like being autocratic might negatively impact the organization, but it can surely impact the long term prospect of the organization (Acar, 2012). Hastings transformation between two different leadership styles indicates that good leaders are flexible in nature, and are capable of understanding and resolving their shortcomings. References Doughty, M. 2013. Strategic Management and Organizational Culture: How Netflix Survived Disaster. Licata, B., Lowry, E., Tallan, T. 2014. Leadership Analysis of the Streaming Video Industry. Keller, M. 2011.Netflix: a strategic analysis(Doctoral dissertation). Lussier, R., Achua, C. 2012.Leadership: Theory, application, skill development. Cengage Learning. Dess, G. G., Lumpkin, G. T., Eisner, A. B. 2006.Strategic management: text and cases. Richard d Irwin. Rothaermel, F. T. 2013.Strategic Management: Concepts. McGraw-Hill Irwin. Shadraconis, S. 2013. Organizational Leadership in Times of Uncertainty: Is Transformational Leadership the Answer?.LUX: A Journal of Transdisciplinary Writing and Research from Claremont Graduate University,2(1), 28. Jeyakumar, N. 2014. Netflix-Loyal Customer Base. The leadership pipeline: How to build the leadership powered company. Puccio, G. J., Mance, M., Murdock, M. C. 2010.Creative leadership: Skills that drive change. Sage Publications. Buckingham, M. 2012. Leadership Development in the Age of the Algorithm.Harvard business review,90(6), 86-92. Evens, T. 2013. Platform leadership in online broadcasting markets. In Handbook of Social Media Management(pp. 477-491). Springer Berlin Heidelberg. Lsted, M. A. 2012.Netflix: The Company and Its Founders EBook. ABDO. Mayson, H. 2012. Institute of Leadership Management-The eureka club: Creating innovative structures.Innovation. DuBrin, A. J. 2013.Principles of leadership. South-Western Cengage Learning. Wombwell, E., Murray, C., Davis, S. J., Palmer, K., Nayar, M., Konkol, J. 2011. Leadership journal club.American journal of health-system pharmacy: AJHP: official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists,68(21), 2026-2027. Acar, A. Z. 2012. Organizational culture, leadership styles and organizational commitment in Turkish logistics industry.Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences,58, 217-226. Avolio, B. J., Yammarino, F. J. (Eds.). 2013.Transformational and charismatic leadership: The road ahead. Emerald Group Publishing. Bird, J. J., Wang, C. 2011. Authentic leadership and budget-building: Superintendents reveal origins, strategies, and connections.Academy of Educational Leadership Journal,15(3), 143-160. Latham, G. P., Piccolo, R. F. 2013. Introduction to the Special Issue of the Journal of Leadership and Organizational Studies.Journal of Leadership Organizational Studies,20(1), 5-6.

Strategic Management of Bellamy-Free-Samples-Myassignmenthelp.com

Question: To Conduct a Strategic Analysis, and Write a report on a Real-Life Business. Answer: Introduction: Bellamys Organic Company is an Australian baby food producer with organic instant formula. The company offers a range of products such as toddler milk, baby rice, baby porridge and many other baby meals (Bellamy's Organic, 2017). Moreover, organic milk drinks are also offered by the company along with offering supplementary food needed to address dietary needs of toddlers. The objective of the paper is to gather background information regarding Bellamys Organic Company and carry out macro-environmental analysis for the industry. Moreover, competitive analysis of Bellamys Organic using Porters five forces theory will be carried out. The paper will also explain resources and competencies of the company through employing VRIO framework. Background information of Bellamys Organic: Bellamys Organic Company is an Australian baby food producer with organic instant formula. The company offers a range of products such as toddler milk, baby rice, baby porridge and many other baby meals. Moreover, organic milk drinks are also offered by the company along with offering supplementary food needed to address dietary needs of toddlers (Bettis et al. 2016). PESTEL Analysis of Bellamys Organic Company Political Australian economy considers altering direction including nourishment guidelines and promotional activities Australian economy considers focuses on enhancing g`overnment strength in certain economies Risk factor with feature of global procedure Australian economy considers altering worldwide controls and maintaining effective practice along with adjustment with various political strengths The company offers businesses in few nations. The guidelines and directions of Australian economy developed by the administration are distinctive in certain locales. Australian economy should concentrate on such political elements like tax collection, import based obligations, government consent to remain within objective section along with presenting hygiene items as guided by the supervisory bodies (Bryce 2017). Also in contemporary patterns that exist within administration solidness, Australian economy must consider and perceive certain related risks that might get included. Australian economy might also consider the changing worldwide controls which are yet to receive by the organization. Economic Australian economy considers focussing on learning regarding evolving expansion, financial development rates and pay levels Australian economy considers also focuses on altering consumer-spending plans, ascent along with cost cognizant purchaser I Australian economy considers increasing crude material products costs in connection for a source from economical providers Distinctive nations have a level of advancement. Economy of Australian economy contrasts within the place. Therefore, the Australian economy desires setting distinctive monetary strategies for focused fragments. The cost of products is a vital choice in order to strategize the financial strategies agreeing the expansion rate and purchasing energy of fragments (Chen, Delmas and Lieberman 2015). The Australian economy considers should make an examination provide details regarding successive premise to get learning of swelling rates and income levels. The Australian economy has a considerable measure in developing the financial value of agriculturists by creating the items at nearby level in order to fulfil of the customer. Social Australian economy considers altering buyer mind state and move towards more beneficial products considering with government activities supporting adjusted weight control plans and the threats of sugar. Australian economy considers changing life ways along with returning to home cooking and development of family time within comfort The requirement to adjust various social settings in Australian economy considers includes religious convictions along with family surroundings Comprehension of purchaser conduct in Australian economy is critical to guarantee people certain ways to deal with showcasing. Buyers observing the Australian economy considers to maintain office control in highly effective outer condition Technological: With advancement of online networking in Australian economy, shoppers connecting with Australian economy help in gathering capacity to do such things over multiple stages Advancement in Australian economy fuelled by mechanical improvements. Online business in Australian economy at stage for advancement Legal: Australian economy considers altering nature of control and need to stick to global controls and changes all over various universal markets Environmental- It is gathered that Australian economy is coordinated in the direction of corporate social duty. Environmental concerns from shoppers that encompass worries with bundling/reusing. Innovation offers numerous ways for the new product development or change of the remaining ones. New strategies of promotion, for instance, web and internet business are imperative to centre at the moment (Daspit et al. 2017). Hence the Australian economy considers uses innovation in certain business operations get an eliminated chance to maintain databases with programming. The widespread use of online networking in Australian economy has decreased the gap between the immediate communication of purchaser and the Australian economy. The Australian economy should take after such a proverb, to the point that quickens development with the assistance of mechanical progressions. The Australian economy is as of now utilizing the innovative innovation for the generation of different items, they are meeting the worldwide models by introducing the contemporary plants (Frynas and Mellahi 2015). Competitive analysis of Bellamys Organic using Porters five forces framework: The competitive analysis of milk industry in Australia has been conducted with the help of Porters five forces framework, which are briefly described as follows: Threat of competition: It has been observed that the level of competition is intense in the Australian milk industry. Due to the natural and organic specialisation of milk industry within the industry, this portion of the industry tends to depend largely on conveyance of quality, education of consumer base, health benefits of the products and store locations depending on the affluence and level of education of the population (Wheelen and Hunger 2017). For instance, chains like Safeway and Kroger have started to offer organic foods raising the milk industry. In addition, the international market growth in milk industry has increased rapidly for natural and organic goods and because of the small number of wholly natural or organic market grocers, the profit potential associated with the competitive rivalry force for milk industry is extremely high in the industry. Threat of new entrants: This force is extremely high in the milk industry because the group of candidates for entering into the same is extremely big. This consists of present milk stores, big box superstores and supermarkets (Vogel and Gttel 2013). Moreover, the barriers to entry into the milk industry of Australia are highly minimal and the fast growth of the industry has resulted in raising the threat of entry. Due to such high force of threat into the industry, milk industry might encounter unattractive profit potential from this industry in future. Threat of substitution: As milk industry is involved in selling products as commodities and needed to sustain life, there is only a single threat of substitution for the organisation. This includes the non-organic products that the current grocery retailers are selling in the Australian milk industry (Trigeorgis and Reuer 2017). However, this threat is highly strong in the milk industry due to the fact that non-organic products are available at cheaper rates in the market. In addition, the consumers could find it easily in contrast to organic products due to store locations and widespread availability of the same. Hence, the profit potential for milk industry from this force is not attractive as well. Bargaining power of the suppliers: The major suppliers in the milk industry of Australia comprise of ranchers, farmers and organic firms. However, the bargaining power of these suppliers is extremely moderate, since the supplied products are commodities (Stead and Stead 2013). In addition, the number of suppliers is limited that could match with the desired standards of this industry. The profit potential for milk industry could be attractive, as it has effective supply chain management and communication with the suppliers. Bargaining power of the buyers: The bargaining power of the buyers is relatively weak, as they tend to buy in smaller amounts due to the perishable nature of the organic goods. Moreover, the motivation of a buyer to purchase organic products is driven through product quality and health consciousness, while price is not the primary influence (Seyed-Javadin et al. 2014). Hence, such effective buyer-seller relationship would help milk industry in increasing its profit potential, as the buyers are ready to pay premium prices for health safety concerns to obtain greater quality of products. From the above evaluation, it has been found the profit potential for the organisation in the milk industry is fairly attractive. However, this industry could not be seen as an entire vacuum due to the expansion of conventional grocery chains (David and David 2015). This is because this industry is still lagging behind the whole food market of Australia in the existing era. Resources and competencies of Bellamys Organic using the VRIO framework: The main resources and competencies of Bellamys Organic have been identified as follows: Financial resources: The organisation has earned sufficient revenues over the years, which has met its financial needs to tap into the new market. The organisation has good credit rating in the market, which could be utilised to borrow money from banks and financial institutions (Rothaermel 2015). Despite such strong financial resources, the whole foods industry has sufficient cash on hand in Australia. Such effective cash on hand has helped the industry in responding effectively to both environmental weaknesses and threats. Technological resources: The existing technology that Bellamys Organic uses in manufacturing organic products could be applied in Europe as well. Thus, the effective industrial practices, processes and trademarks act as technological resources for the organisation. Organisational resources: The current strategic frameworks and the previous experience might fetch the needed guidelines to enter into a new market. As the firm has been in the market of Australia for long duration, there is immense value in its intellectual capital and learning. Human resources: Bellamys Organic has vast sets of knowledgeable and experienced employees in its Australia offices having knowledge of each procedure and process to be followed in maintaining the standards in any location. Hence, they are adjudged as the most valuable assets of the organisation (Peteraf, Gamble and Thompson Jr 2014). The application of VRIO framework could be made based on the above components of framework, which is depicted as follows: Value: The strong financial resources might help Bellamys Organic in focusing on its diversification plans for obtaining competitive supremacy. It could use its technological resources in combination with human resources for setting up technologically advanced stores in the cross-border nations. The technical skills of its employees would help in recruiting local individuals along with providing effective training. As a result, the overall operational process of the organisation would be standardised. Rarity: The organisation has few technological resources that are exclusive to Bellamys Organic only. However, such exclusivity could not be ensured blindly due to the availability of other big players in the market. Hence, it is necessary for the organisation to use these technological resources in a sensible manner along with leaving the remaining to the marketing activities. However, with the rapid growth of the whole foods industry in the segment of organic food, Bellamys Organic could not enjoy little rarity of its resources due to the fact that the others entering the market might face difficulties to obtain untapped resources. As a result, the competitive advantage of the organisation might be lost in future. Imitable: Bellamys Organic could develop advanced processes in its stores in Australia, which the other competitors might struggle to cope up with the same. At least, the organisation could ensure to upgrade its technology in such a way that the current small local players could not match up with the same in the upcoming years (Peppard and Ward 2016). The organisational resources like the knowledge of the Australian market could be taken into account as rare, since it might be the first firm in the industry to expand its business into Europe. Organisation: Bellamys Organic has been operating in Australia for over many years. The organisation could be assumed to be at the stage of its maturity. The inter-dependency of the resources and its collaboration is guided strongly through the established procedures and processes (Morschett, Schramm-Klein and Zentes 2015). The roles of the management could be assumed to be clearly precise and thus, an effective utilisation of resources is highly possible. Conclusion: The objective of the paper is to gather background information regarding Bellamys Organic Company and carry out macro-environmental analysis for the industry. Moreover, competitive analysis of Bellamys Organic using Porters five forces theory will be carried out. The paper will also explain resources and competencies of the company through employing VRIO framework. It was gathered from the paper that the company uses innovation in certain business operations get an eliminated of chance to maintain the databases with programming assistance. The widespread use of online networking has decreased the gap between communication of purchaser and the organization. The company should take after such a proverb, to the point that quickens development with the assistance of mechanical progressions. References: Bellamy's Organic., 2017. Home. [online] Available at: https://www.bellamysorganic.com.au/ [Accessed 16 Aug. 2017]. Bettis, R.A., Ethiraj, S., Gambardella, A., Helfat, C. and Mitchell, W., 2016. Creating repeatable cumulative knowledge in strategic management.Strategic Management Journal,37(2), pp.257-261. Bettis, R.A., Gambardella, A., Helfat, C. and Mitchell, W., 2015. Qualitative empirical research in strategic management.Strategic Management Journal,36(5), pp.637-639. Bryce, H.J., 2017.Financial and strategic management for nonprofit organizations. Walter de Gruyter GmbH Co KG. Chen, C.M., Delmas, M.A. and Lieberman, M.B., 2015. Production frontier methodologies and efficiency as a performance measure in strategic management research.Strategic Management Journal,36(1), pp.19-36. Daspit, J.J., Chrisman, J.J., Sharma, P., Pearson, A.W. and Long, R.G., 2017. A Strategic Management Perspective of the Family Firm: Past Trends, New Insights, and Future Directions.Journal of Managerial Issues,29(1), pp.6-29. David, F. and David, F.R., 2015. Strategic Management: A Competitive Advantage Approach, Concepts and Cases. Eden, C. and Ackermann, F., 2013.Making strategy: The journey of strategic management. Sage. Frynas, J.G. and Mellahi, K., 2015.Global strategic management. Oxford University Press, USA. Hill, C.W., Jones, G.R. and Schilling, M.A., 2014.Strategic management: theory: an integrated approach. Cengage Learning. Morden, T., 2016.Principles of strategic management. Routledge. Morschett, D., Schramm-Klein, H. and Zentes, J., 2015.Strategic international management. Springer. Peppard, J. and Ward, J., 2016.The strategic management of information systems: Building a digital strategy. John Wiley Sons. Peteraf, M., Gamble, J. and Thompson Jr, A., 2014.Essentials of strategic management: The quest for competitive advantage. McGraw-Hill Education. Rothaermel, F.T., 2015.Strategic management. McGraw-Hill Education. Seyed-Javadin, S.R., Raei, R., Iravani, M.J. and Safari, M., 2014. Presenting a conceptual model to explain the role of strategic management and planning in Islamic banking competitiveness.International Letters of Social and Humanistic Sciences,26, pp.46-56. Stead, J.G. and Stead, W.E., 2013.Sustainable strategic management. ME Sharpe. Trigeorgis, L. and Reuer, J.J., 2017. Real options theory in strategic management.Strategic Management Journal,38(1), pp.42-63. Vogel, R. and Gttel, W.H., 2013. The dynamic capability view in strategic management: A bibliometric review.International Journal of Management Reviews,15(4), pp.426-446. Wheelen, T.L. and Hunger, J.D., 2017.Strategic management and business policy. Pearson.

Social Survey Sex

The participants are three males and three females and are all heterosexual. Two of the females are 22 years old and are in committed relationships whereas the other female is 23 years old and is single. Two of the male participants are 22 years old and single. The other male participant is 28 years old and is in a committed relationship.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Social Survey: Sex specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More All the participants agree that it is acceptable to have sex before marriage. However, the males are more liberal than the females because they all think that the maximum duration that a couple ought to take before engaging in sex is one month. The females, on the other hand, think that the minimum time before engaging in sex ought to be six months. This means that the males are likely to engage in sex earlier than the females. In addition, the male subjects agree with having friends for purely s exual acts without committed relationships. Two of the females are not interested in a â€Å"friends with benefits† relationship. However, only one of the females accepts that she can consent to a â€Å"friends with benefits† relationship if the guy in question is someone who she likes. The males are sexually liberal than females because most females tend to get involved emotionally and psychologically with their sexual partners. Males, on the other hand, simply view sex as the physical act. They, therefore, do not attach themselves emotionally to their sexual partners hence the ability to have sex (without a committed relationship) with many partners without a sense of guilt. The definition of dating varies with gender to some extent. The male participants see dating as â€Å"hanging out† with a friend of the opposite sex, which may include sex. The females view dating as spending time with someone without involving sexual activity. All the participants agree à ¢â‚¬Å"booty call† has sex as the sole intention. Their thoughts on hooking up are diverse and do not correlate with the participants’ age or gender. For example, some participants think that hooking up includes sex as the key agenda while others think that hooking up has different results. The participants unanimously agree â€Å"open relationships† promote promiscuity and no one is willing to be part of open relationships. The participants also agree that cheating involves having a relationship (sexual or not) with someone other than one’s official spouse. Technology makes dating convenient since people can communicate effortlessly via email and online chatting services. Technology also facilitates meeting new people. However, technology makes it easy for unfaithful spouses to cheat on their partners.Advertising Looking for essay on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The male participa nts are open to online dating. The females, however, find online dating a misuse of time as they do not trust the people they meet online. The two parties reach a compromise that watching pornography does not affect relationships. However, all males are willing to watch pornography with their partners whereas only one of the three females is willing to do so. None of the participants agrees on swapping of partners or â€Å"swinging.† The 28-year old male subject is the only one who agrees to have a threesome. All these outcomes are because everyone regardless of age or gender tends to guard jealously their sexual partner. This essay on Social Survey: Sex was written and submitted by user Janiya Skinner 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.

Protecting innovation methods The WritePass Journal

Protecting innovation methods Introduction Protecting innovation methods IntroductionProtecting Innovation MethodsCopyrightTrademark Trade Secret Bibliography Related Introduction Protecting Innovation Methods Wholly Proprietary Systems are those focused on technology that is company owned and protected through patents, copyrights, secrecy or other mechanisms. The following methods that Everything Everywhere are currently applying to protect its innovation are: Copyright Trademark Trade secret Copyright Copyrights are becoming one of the most essential methods to protect innovation due to the advances of new technology, the reasoning behind this is because of the economy rising rapidly relying on the storage, conveying and managing the information. However the restrictions imposed on the efficiency of the copyright make it more difficult to maintain the regulation. For instance copyright laws have been unsuccessful in keeping up with progress of technology of the Internet as nowadays the materials can be easily plagiarized without gaining permission from the owner. T-mobile and Orange protects its websites and its contents through copyright and database rights this gives exclusive rights that the data that is presented on the website are protected and licensed to Everything Everywhere Limited. The copyrights at Everything Everywhere, allows protecting the company from illegal replication of their work. For example, Everything Everywhere website provides all necessary information and required details for their customers about the products or services such as browsing the site, downloading and printing materials in order to use for personal and non-commercial needs. However, devoid of prior written agreement or authorization from Everything Everywhere Limited would not permit illegal users to replica, store, allocate, broadcast, or modify the content of their website for any principle. As Everything Everywhere has effectively secured through copyright since it usually limited for outside users.   Although the continuation of copyright at Everyt hing Everywhere might not be adequate to maintain stopping illegal users from exploiting their material. Trademark A trademark is a symbol or indicator which is used to identify the origin of a product or company, distinguishing it from other source of products, services, or companies. These are one the three essential forms of intellectual possession rights along with patent and copyrights. However, trademarks differ from other type of intellectual property rights this includes patents in assisting to protect the underlying invention and copyrights that protects the expression of an idea. Everything Everywhere is the symbol and phrase of their trademark, this clearly relates to the company’s network for example their customers will have good access to mobile networks everywhere in the world. Through using an effective trademark identity it allows Everything Everywhere to ensure that they strongly secure and protect their innovative products and services. Since their customers will be very familiar and well able to recognise the services and products offered by Everything Everywhere. Moreover, they are also aware that the company’s trademark doesn’t develop to be generic. If the company’s trademarks develop to become common this will allow others to make use of their materials with no panic of trademark contravention from Everything Everywhere limited.   However, Everything Everywhere Limited ensures that they concerned of protecting their innovation. Trade Secret Everything Everywhere has been skilled as a trade secret under the Uniform Trade Secret Act through following the three main criteria required for trade secret information as mentioned below: The material or details is required to not be in all-purpose familiar or freely ascertainable during genuine. The information should include economic significance which depends on their information which is confidential. To protect the secrecy of information reasonable measures should be taken by Everything Everywhere who are the trade secret holder Everything Everywhere benefits by using trade secret , since this protection can be applied for long period as far as the company’s information are kept and maintained secretly. Furthermore the cost of maintaining the trade secret are low. Although trade secret protection requires to be controlled and employed frequently in order make sure that the confidentiality of the company are secret. Bibliography Alcock, L., Chen, P, H., and Hodson, S. (2003) Online piracy of recorded music, Journal of Brand Management, vol.11, iss.2, retrieved August 8, 2004, Langenderfer and Cook (2001, p.280 docstoc.com/docs/70352974/Everything-Everywhere-Limited http://stakeholders.ofcom.org.uk/binaries/consultations/copyright-infringement/responses/Everything_Everywhere_Limit1.pdf iccwbo.org/uploadedFiles/BASCAP/Pages/Davis.pdf wirelessweek.com/News/Feeds/2010/05/wireless-everything-everywhere-tm-orange-and-t-mobile-u/ businessknowledgesource.com/marketing/howatrademarkcanidyourmarketing026281.htm

Marketing paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Marketing paper - Essay Example New product development under the brand name Apple, takes creativity, innovation and technology as the design forces and variables that are accounted for in developing new products. Creativity encompasses ensuring that the product being developed will capture the market’s interest. In this pursuit, the product features that lacks in the already available products should be critically considered. This is tailored towards revolutionizing the market setting in terms of consumer expectations. Innovation and technological advancement is the product design that stands out relative to what other firms are offering. Innovation treats all aspects of product production, meaning that the factors of production are all effectively combined in a way that outperforms substitute products in the market. In other words, innovation is a critical component of new product development. Technological advancement is similarly an ongoing process. Keeping at par with technological progress makes it essential that new products be integrated into technological pursuits. When creativity, innovation and technological progress are combined into the development of a new product (Grant 247), the resultant product is highly likely to take the market at a storm prior to favorable pricing and improved product

What did the French Revolution achieve for the bourgeoisie in terms of Essay

What did the French Revolution achieve for the bourgeoisie in terms of liberty - Essay Example The aristocratic revolt of 1787 to 1789 happened at a time when members of the Third Estate were an oppressed group. They considered themselves discriminated in terms of the political, legal, and social perspectives. Though he seldom did so, the king could give lettres du cachet on his opponents in politics and imprison them without trying them. The feudal overlords compelled peasants to abandon their homes and fulfil the hated corvee, a form of unpaid labor. The ecclesiastical and seigniorial courts imposed the death penalty on the less privileged without allowing them the right to appeal. As such, torture was a common activity during that time, and it targeted the less privileged. The desire for change drove the people to revolt against aristocratic leadership with all forms of persecutions. The first was liberty from over taxation at the expense of the rich. Before the revolution, the tax systems spared the wealthy members of the society and left out the rich. Such an idea gave the weak hints that the power regime treated them unfairly (Jones 154). Soon after the revolt, all people became equal before the law. Another factor is the consideration that job opportunities were available to all individuals based on merit and not according to class. Initially, there existed a system where only the affluent class could secure job opportunities. It, therefore, means that the feelings of discrimination that formerly existed started to fade away. There was also an abolishment of the old feudal system of governance, and a more flexible system replaced it. The clergy and the aristocracy ceased being the most prominent in the society as they had initially enjoyed. Instead, the bourgeoisie assumed the position of the most influential group of people in France. The system of governan ce became a basis of democracy in many other countries who copied from France

Report about Virgin Mary and Saint Maria Goretti Essay

Report about Virgin Mary and Saint Maria Goretti - Essay Example She was an Israelite woman and was chosen by God to carry and give birth to his firstborn Son. Similarly Saint Maria Goretti was also handpicked by God for her humble yet unrelenting love and acceptance of God into her heart. She was a simple little poor country girl, not yet 12 years of age, and yet God chose her, clothed her with honor by the power of his Spirit. The bond she had with God was so strong that she chose to give her life up for it and be forever the living proof of the Pope John Paul II quote â€Å"God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise.’ (R.schmid, 2011). Maria Goretti from a very early age was able to ‘accept what pertains to the Spirit of God.’ It was this Spirits voice that she has incorporated in every aspect of her life. She did not flee from this voice even as she was attacked by her assailant but it was the voice of her conscience that let her not give in. She chose death over the alternative of being defiled knowing that her body was the house of God. The gift of her fortitude was so great that the Holy Spirit helped her make her moral decision and chose such a difficult feat with her young spirit. She chose death when she saw no other way to defend her virginal purity. Her final act is a perfect depiction of how she lived her entire young life (Likoudis, 2004).

The Palestinian-Israeli conflict

The Palestinian-Israeli conflict Across the Muslim world it is a common refrain that Palestine is the mother of all problems. (Atran Ginges: 2009: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/25/opinion/25atran .html) That these claims could be made about such a small piece of land, particularly one which has so little oil is extraordinary, serving only to highlight the importance of finding a solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. To date, the numerous attempts at solving the conflict have all ended in failure. The prospects for a peaceful solution in the foreseeable future look bleak, with a wide range of factors contributing towards this, most notably the role of extremists, the failure of the peace process, actions of the Israeli Government, splits among the Palestinians and the actions of outside parties who benefit from the continuation of the conflict, as well as more fundamental underlying disagreements, particularly the refugee problem and the sovereignty of East Jerusalem. The Palestinian Israeli conflict is primarily a dispute over the control of land. It has been described by Amos Oz, an Israeli journalist and author, as a tragedy, a clash between one very powerful, very convincing, very painful claim over this land and another no less powerful, no less convincing claim. (Oz: 2002: http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/middle_ east/jan-june02/oz_1-23.html) In 1947 the UN passed a partition plan, attempting to find a solution to both of these claims, however this was rejected by the Arabs of Palestine and civil war broke out between them and the Jews of Palestine. (McDowall: 24: 1995) After Israel declared its independence on 14th May 1948, many of the surrounding Arab countries sent forces to attack the new state of Israel. In the 1967 Six Day War, Israel gained the Sinai Peninsula and the Gaza Strip from Egypt, the Golan Heights from Syria, and the West Bank and East Jerusalem from Jordan. (Smith: 2004: 279) Having returned the Sinai Peninsula to Egypt in 1979-1982, in 1993 Israel and Palestine signed the Oslo Accords, which agreed Israeli withdrawal from parts of the West Bank and the Gaza strip, as well as for Palestinian self-government within those areas. (Smith: 2004: 438) Despite strong hopes for a final status agreement at the Camp David Summit in July 2000, this was not reached. After the Al-Aqsa Intifada broke out later that year and the subsequent deterioration in Palestinian-Israeli relations, agreement presently looks a long way off. The two-state solution is the consensus solution to the conflict, with polling indicating that it has the support of the majority of both Palestinians and Israelis. (Pallister: 2009: http:// www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/apr/22/israel-palestine-poll) Neither sees this as their ideal solution; however a majority of both recognise it is the only realistic way for peace to occur. Extremists on both sides present a constant obstacle towards solving the conflict. Rather than accepting that compromises are necessary, they are dismissive of the other sides right to exist. In Israel, there are organisations, including members of Benjamin Netanyahus current cabinet, that still believe that the Jewish State should include most, if not all, of Greater Israel, which among other areas, contains the West Bank. (Zakaria: 2010: http://www.cnn. com/2010/OPINION/03/18/zakaria.israel.mistake) Among Palestinians, extremists reject Israels right to exist and work to stop the possibility of peaceful coexistence. They have launched suicide attacks against Israeli civilians in their attempts to disrupt peace negotiations. Part of the reason peace has been difficult to achieve post-2000 has been the change in opinion among Israeli citizens that peace is a realistic possibility. When the Oslo Accords were signed, Israelis saw that by allowing Palestinians to self-govern, they were taking large risks and making a significant compromise. They tend to perceive the Camp David offer to the Palestinians as fair and just, and blame the lack of peace on Yasser Arafat for refusing to take it. (Morris: 2009: 135) With the Al-Aqsa Intifada beginning in late 2000 and causing the deaths of over a thousand Israeli civilians, (Catignani: 2008: 103) Israelis increasingly began to see the Palestinians as unwilling to make the compromises necessary for a two-state solution, destroying the belief of much of Israeli society in the possibility of peace. (Catignani: 2008: 103) This was only confirmed by the comprehensive victory of Hamas over the more moderate but corruption ridden Fatah in the Palestinian legislative electi on of 2006. Although also a social organisation, Hamas had perpetrated numerous suicide bombings against Israeli civilians, and rejects any attempt at a political settlement with Israel. (Mishal Sela: 2006: 52) In this context, many Israelis have concluded that they do not have a partner in achieving peace. Given that allowing the Palestinians to self-rule under the Oslo Accords had created areas from which it was significantly easier to plot attacks on Israel, (Catignani: 2008 131) they are incredibly wary of giving the Palestinians control of more land, questioning whether organisations such as Hamas will ever cease to attack Israel. Post-2000, the actions of the Israeli government have also made an end to the conflict significantly more difficult to achieve. Thousands of Palestinians have died at the hands of the Israel Defence Forces, with more suffering serious injuries. In 2005 Israel unilaterally withdrew from Gaza, however the area has been under blockade since 2007, preventing the access of vital food and medical supplies. In May 2008, even before the more recent Gaza War of 2008-09, the International Committee of the Red Cross estimated that over 70% of Gazans were living in poverty. (ICRC: 2009: http://www.icrc.org/web/eng/siteeng0.nsf/html /palestine-report-260609) In the West Bank the almost decade-long downturn has been largely a result of Israeli closure policieswhich disrupted labor flows, manufacturing, and commerce, both external and internal. (CIA World Factbook: 2010: https://www.cia.gov/libr ary/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/we.html) Since 2002 the Israeli Government has been constructing the West Bank Barrier. Built to protect Israeli citizens from attacks, it has succeeded in vastly reducing the number of Israeli civilian casualties. (Gelvin: 2007: 249) Controversially, however, rather than being built following Israels 1949 Armistice lines, it deviates into areas captured by Israel in 1967. The International Court of Justice proclaimed that construction of the barrier is contrary to international law (ICJ: 2004: http://www.icj-cij.org/docket/index.php?pr=71p1=3p2=1 case=131p3=6) and it has also been criticised as an Israeli attempt to create an illegal unilateral solution, which severely restricts the lives of those living inside the barrier. (Shindler: 2008: 326)I loved to play football with my friends. I told the doctors that I wanted to be able to walk again they promised that I would. Ghassan, 14 years old, Gaza City. His older brother was killed and he himself was wounded during the military operation. He is waiting to be fitted with artificial limbs for both legs. The continued expansion of settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem also contributes towards making the conflict increasingly difficult to solve. Deemed as illegal by numerous UN Security Council Resolutions, (Qurie: 2008: 166) each new settlement is another settlement which may have to be dismantled in any realistic peace deal, and to continue building them shows a clear lack of commitment to peace. The actions of the IDF and the Israeli Government have helped created a generation of Palestinians that hate Israel and Jews. To those living inside the West Bank wall or in poverty-stricken Gaza, the message of extremists resonates. Israeli action is thus helping cause the circumstances from which extremists and potential suicide bombers emerge, creating a cycle of violence which is difficult to reverse. (Kamrava: 2005: 238) Splits among the Palestinians have also made it more difficult to end the conflict. Starting in December 2006, and continuing on-and-off to the present day, there has been a Civil War between Hamas and Fatah. Currently, Hamas control Gaza, whilst Fatah control the West Bank. This lack of unification within the Palestinians makes an end to the Palestine Israeli conflict impossible. For peace, a Palestinian leader would have to accept a deal which would to some extent not entirely fulfil the aspirations of the Palestinian people, and this leader would have to successfully convince them that taking it was their best option. Before his death in 2004, Yasser Arafat might possibly have been able to do this. Currently, there is no-one. Even before the Hamas-Fatah conflict, Israel had complained that there was no one to talk to among the Palestinians. (Gelvin: 2007: 246) Until the Hamas-Fatah conflict is to some extent resolved, there is no one that the Israelis can talk to about a deal. On the assumption that Palestinians and Israelis could be bought together for serious and meaningful negotiations, there are numerous disputes which would be very difficult to solve. Two of these, the refugee problem and the dispute over East Jerusalem, seem particularly difficult to resolve. In 1948, approximately 700,000 Palestinians became refugees after either fleeing or being forced to leave, with many more becoming refugees after the Six Day War. (Morris: 2004: 604) Many of them live in the West Bank and Gaza, but they have spread amongst the Arab World. Despite this, they have never been truly assimilated into the populations of these other countries; with Jordan being the only Arab state to have allowed large numbers of them to gain full citizenship. (Miller Samuels: 2009: http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/ middle-east/no-way-home-the-tragedy-of-the-palestinian-diaspora-1806790.html) Palestinian refugees claim that the UN guarantees their right to return under UN General Assembly Resolution 194. Israel has rejected this interpretation of the resolution and has never complied with it. They also argue that an acceptance of the Palestinians right to return would bring about the end of Israel as a Jewish State. Whilst few of the 1948 refugees are still alive, their descendants have spent their whole lives fighting for what they see as rightfully theirs, and will not give this up without significant recompense. Disagreement on the issue of the refugees is one of the central reasons for the failure of the Camp David Summit. (Smith: 2004: 498) Of all of the territorial disagreements, Jerusalem is the most difficult to solve. Even assuming that agreement could be reached on all other territorial disputes, it is difficult to envision agreement over Jerusalem. From 1948-67 West Jerusalem was under Israeli control, with East Jerusalem under Arab (Jordanian) control. East Jerusalem contains the Temple Mount, the site of the ancient Jewish Temple. The site of the two ancient temples, tradition states that it will be the site of the third and final temple. It is considered the holiest site within Judaism, so holy, that many Jews will not set foot on it. To Muslims, the Temple Mount is the site of the Al-Aqsa mosque and of the Prophet Muhammads ascent to heaven. It is widely regarded as the third holiest site in Islam. (Shindler: 2008: 282) Current Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged that A united Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. Jerusalem was and will always be ours. It shall never be divided. (Reuters: 2009: http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSLL96214120090521) This highlights quite how far away the current Israeli leadership is from meaningful and realistic peace discussions. However it is still almost impossible to comprehend that any Israeli leader would negotiate away The Temple Mount and the Western Wall. It is equally impossible to imagine any Palestinian leader relinquishing their claims over the Temple Mount. Palestinians feel that by accepting Israelis right to exist and a state broadly along the 1967 borders, they are making huge concessions. Giving up The Dome of the Rock and the Al Aqsa Mosque is something that is just one step too far. Even if a Palestinian leader were to make an agreement, it is virtually impossible to imagine that they would persuade the rest of the Palestinian people to accept it peacefully. Lastly, there are outside actors that benefit from the continuation of the conflict. Palestine would also be removed as an issue over which the Islamic world could unify, whereas hatred towards the USA and Israel would begin to disappear. If a peace effort led by the USA was achieved, this would be a major diplomatic victory for them. Regardless of statements suggesting they would support a two state solution, (Spillius: 2009: http://www.telegraph.co .uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/iran/5225705/Irans-President-would-support-two-state-solution-for-Israel.html) this would be undesirable to the Iranian leadership. Syria, which has its own territorial dispute with Israel, would not allow any peace deal between the Palestinians and Israel to occur unless its dispute with Israel was settled. The Iranians and Syrians will thus continue to assist and fund groups that help keep the conflict going. To conclude, there is a wide variety of reasons, some ancient, some more recent, that have made the Palestinian Israeli conflict so difficult to solve today. After so much promise during the 1990s that a deal could be reached, the chances of an end to the conflict have taken several steps backwards over the last decade. Despite this, The two-state solution remains the only viable solution. Its pitfalls are numerous and significant. However, as the Israeli President Shimon Peres argued last year, a one-state solution has enough intrinsic flaws to render it no solution at all. signifying the end of the existence of a Jewish state (Peres: 2009: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/02/09/AR2009020902098.html) Whilst there was much hope that movement towards the opening of meaningful negotiations would be re-started with the election of President Obama, this hope has largely evaporated, resulting in the continuation of the conflict for the foreseeable future. Bibliography Atran, S. Ginges, J. (2009) How Words Could End a War (24/01/2008) http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/25/opinion/25atran.html: date accessed 19/03/2010 Catignani, S. (2008) Israeli Counter-Insurgency and the Intifadas: Dilemmas of a conventional army: New York: Routledge CIA World Factbook West Bank (04/03/2010) https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the world-factbook/geos/we.html: date accessed 19/03/2010 Gelvin, J. (2007) The Israel-Palestine Conflict: One Hundred Years of War: Cambridge: Cambridge University Press ICJ (2004) Legal Consequences of the Construction of a Wall in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (9/07/2004) http://www.icj-cij.org/docket/index.php?pr=71p1=3p2=1case= 131p3=6: date accessed 19/03/2010 ICRC (2009) Gaza: 1.5 million people trapped in despair (29/06/2009) http://www.icrc.org/ web/eng/siteeng0.nsf/html/palestine-report-260609: date accessed 19/03/2009 Kamrava, M. (2005) The Modern Middle East: A Political History Since The First World War: London: University of California Press McDowall, D. (1995) The Palestinians: The Road to Nationhood: London: Minority Rights Publications Miller, J. Samuels, D. (2009) No way home: The tragedy of the Palestinian diaspora (22/10/2009) http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/no-way-home-the-tragedy-of-the-palestinian-diaspora-1806790.html: date accessed 19/03/2010 Mishal, S. Sela A. (2006) The Palestinian Hamas: Vision, Violence and Coexistence: New York: Columbia University Press Morris, B. (2004) The Birth of the Palestinian Refugee Problem Revisited: Cambridge: Cambridge University Press Morris, B. (2009) One State, Two States: New Haven: Yale University Press Oz, A. (2002) Coping With Conflict: A NewsHour with Jim Lehrer Transcript (23/01/2002) http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/middle_east/jan-june02/oz_1-23.html: date accessed 19/03/2010 Pallister, D. (2009) Most Palestinians and Israelis willing to accept two-state solution, poll finds (22/04/2009) http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/apr/22/israel-palestine-poll: date accessed 19/03/2010 Peres, S. (2009) One Region, Two States (10/02/2009) http://www.washingtonpost.com/ wp-dyn/content/article/2009/02/09/AR2009020902098.html: date accessed 19/03/2010 Qurie, A. (2008) Beyond Oslo, The Struggle For Palestine: London: Tauris Co Ltd Reuters (2009) Israeli PM says Jerusalem will never be divided (21/05/2009) http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSLL96214120090521: date accessed 19/03/2010 Shindler, C. (2008) A History of Modern Israel: New York: Cambridge University Press Smith, C. (2004) Palestine and The Arab-Israeli Conflict Fifth Edition: A History With Documents: Palgrave Macmillan: Basingstoke Spillius, A. (2009) Irans President would support two-state solution for Israel (26/04/2009): http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/iran/5225705/Irans-President-would-support-two-state-solution-for-Israel.html: date accessed 19/03/2010 Zakaria, F. (2010) Israel is making a big mistake (18/03/2010) http://www.cnn.com/2010/OPINION/03/18/zakaria.israel.mistake: date accessed 19/03/2010

Lithium :: essays research papers

In 1817, an aging Swedish chemist was pouring over his work on a late afternoon in Stockholm, Sweden. He was analyzing a strange ore named Petalite that had been procured from an island off the coast of Sweden called Utà ¶. The ore Petalite (which is now recognized to be LiAl(Si2O5)2) had been discovered by a Brazilian scientist, Josà © Bonifà ¡cio de Andrada e Silva towards the end of the 18th century on a visit to Sweden. This Swedish scientist, Johann August Arfvedson, detected traces of an unknown substance in his sample of Petalite. This was the first discovery of Lithium. From the Greek word "lithos" meaning "stone", it was so named due to the fact that it was discovered from a mineral source; whereas the other two common Group 1 elements, Sodium and Potassium, were found in plant sources. Its symbol, Li, was taken directly from its name. Soon after stumbling upon Lithium, Arfvedson also found traces of the metal in the minerals Spodumene and Lepidolite. In 1818, C.G. Gmelin discovered that Lithium salts color flames a bright red. Neither, Gmelin or Arfvedson, however, were able to isolate the element itself from the Lithium salts. They both tried to reduce the oxide by heating it with Iron or Carbon, but neither met with the success of W.T. Brande and Sir Humphrey Davy. They managed to perform the first isolation of elemental Lithium by the electrolysis of Lithium oxide. Electrolysis is a chemical reaction, which is brought about by the passage of current from an external energy source such as a battery. In 1855, the scientists Bu nsen and Mattiessen isolated larger quantities of the metal by electrolysis of Lithium chloride. Each scientist or team of scientists had so much trouble reducing the Lithium compounds because Lithium does not exist in its elemental form in nature. It combines very easily with other elements. Lithium is a soft silvery-white lustrous metal, which can be easily cut with a knife, and it is the lightest of all known metals. It is highly reactive with water and air, and tarnishes readily when exposed to the latter due to a formation of a layer of Lithium suboxide on its surface. Because of its high rate of reaction to air, it must be stored under liquid paraffin, oil, or kerosene, which contain no air, to prevent oxidation. Lithium is detected in its compounds by the characteristic red coloration that it imparts to flames when burned, as Gmelin detected, and by spectroscopic methods.

Recommendations for Auric Bank Essay

Auric Bank is a modern British bank that cares about its customers. Business at Auric Bank is constantly reviewed in order to provide customers with excellent service at competitive prices. The objective of this business report is to scrutinize different solutions to the two issues Auric Bank is currently facing. One of them is customer service improvement and the second one involves implementing a policy which will cut the bank’s costs and at the same time will boost its profits and share price. As a part of the major reorganization a look has to be taken at the cost of customer service since Auric Bank generated a loss of approximately  £1.5 billion in 2011 by investing in unprofitable areas of business. Since that time the bank has carried out a major review of its operations the main points of which are: 1. Customers believe Auric Bank is charging too much for its services 2. Auric Bank no longer has the image of a ‘caring ´ bank that is close to its customers and understands their needs 3. The bank needs to reduce costs to increase profits and price per share Today Auric Bank has 2,500 employees working in three call centers located in different cities in South England. There are four solutions which the directors of the bank are considering: 1. The call centers could be kept in-house  2. The call centers could be outsourced to a Company based in South Africa 3. The call centers could be outsourced to a Company based in Scotland 4. The call centers could be outsourced to a Company based in India PROBLEM SOLUTIONS First option One of the solutions is to keep call centers in their current locations in South England and reduce costs by using more part-time workers, reducing working hours of business centers and enhancing productivity by increasing the ratio of calls returned per hour. Estimated cost of running the call centers for the next five years is  £16 million. Estimated savings by introducing changes are above  £3 million with actual costs being equal up to  £13 million. The price is really high for our cost-cutting policy. There are three positive parts of this solution: 1. Current employees in call-centers are ready to provide the customers with personal approach as they have been acquainted with each other for a long time 2. Current employees know the operations and transactions inside out and, therefore, do not need intensive training 3. South-English workers show that Auric Bank is an English bank and, therefore, reinforce the bank’s closeness to its customers Second option Another way is to outsource services of call-centers to a company based in South Africa. Resource Plc is a company based in Cape Town. Calculations show us that cost of the contract with Resource Plc to run call centers for the next five years is  £8 million. This firm has an excellent reputation for its reliability and good service, and that is a crucial aspect because one of the priorities in banking sphere is the quality of customer service. Moreover Resource Plc has a lot of experience in running this kind of centers. We must take into consideration that Resource Plc offers good balance of costs and quality of service. It is expected that they will manage call centers more efficiently. The staff will be trained to provide the bank with new products and services at much lower costs than the UK centers and will undoubtedly conduct business very professionally. Third option Third possible solution could be outsourcing the call center to a Scottish company Orion Plc. Estimated cost of running the call centers for five years is  £10 million. The positive part of this company is that it is a new firm with young, energetic managers, which can work almost restlessly. Second advantage is that they have several contacts with big companies; this means that these companies trust them. Also they are experienced in running call centers that will help to avoid confusion during work. However, there also are setbacks such as complaints of the customers about telephone lines being always busy, which does not indicate a high productivity level. Contracts with big companies can undermine the reputation and performance of our collaboration. Price of contract with Orion Plc is not relatively low, but quality of their service is not enough for this price. Fourth option Last solution is to outsource the call centers to an Indian company that is based in Bangalore. X-source India is a fast growing company that has contracts with several large US companies. This means that it does not have problems with hiring employees and operating with low costs. An estimated cost of the contract with X-source India over the next five years is  £5,5 million. We must take into consideration that a lot of US companies perform cost-cutting policy through Indian outsourcing call centers. Indian employees have good qualification because the majority of them are university graduates. Indian management will provide fast and effective service and price of the contract is very low. RECOMMENDATIONS We understand that Auric Bank is the English bank, and if directors decide to relocate call centers abroad they will have some problems with laying off 2,500 employees. This fact will negatively affect the reputation of Auric Bank and of course labor unions will be against this action. Quality of service might not stay on the same level abroad, however, keeping call centers in England is too expensive. Taking all facts into consideration I would advise to relocate the call centers of Auric Bank abroad. Scottish and Indian companies have been servicing a lot of big clients. This fact, their serious commitment, can affect the quality of their services provided to other customers in a negative way. The call centers had better not be kept in-house because it is a very expensive solution that will not let AB focus on developing parts of business. Therefore I suggest moving call centers to South Africa and collaborating with Resource Plc. The offer of this company represents an appropriate price-to-quality ratio. If AB cooperates with the South African company it will achieve its goals: reduce operation costs, increase quality of services and get customer loyalty.

America and Election 2000 essays

America and Election 2000 essays Unless you have been hibernating in a cave somewhere off the coast of Madagascar for the past six and a half months, you know about and have experienced the historical year 2000 presidential election. Since day one there has been mass coverage not only of the candidates, but also of their families, friends, and business associates. One periodical that did an excellent job of covering the facts about this election, especially between November 8th and November 19th, was the New York Times. The editorials and op-editorials in this newspaper were powerful opinion pieces that questioned political position, the Separation of Powers, and the responsibility of the candidates. These editorials and op-editorials finally gave the nation an inside look at what was going on behind the scenes and what was happening during the election. First I would like to discuss the responsibility of the candidates. What exactly is responsibility? Does Vice President Al Gore or Governor Bush display this quality of leadership? According to the New Lexicon Webster's Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language, responsibility is the state or quality of being in control or having to give satisfaction and through the eyes of Mr. Leon Panetta, neither candidate is truly worthy. After reading Mr. Panetta's article, I sensed that there seemed to be an aura of pettiness surrounding this campaign. That both candidates were taking issues and situations to the extreme. Basically, that no one was ready to take the role of the defeated. In turn a nation full of people are suffering from the egos of two men who want to be the leader of the country, but aren't giving satisfaction to the nation. Therefore are these two men living up to their "responsibilities," or are they only being selfish and looking out for themselves? Leon Panetta, former White House chief of staff under President Clinton (1994-1997), writes in his November 14th op-editorial that, ASo far both (A...

The U.S. Militarys Space Operations

The U.S. Militarys Space Operations People love a good military conspiracy theory, including the one that the Air Force has its very own space shuttle. It all sounds very James Bond, but the truth is that the military actually never had a secret space shuttle.  Instead, it used NASAs space shuttle fleet until 2011. Then it built and flew its own mini-shuttle drone and continues to test it on long missions. However, while there may be great interest within the military for a space force, theres just not one out there. There is a space command at the U.S. Air Force, mainly interested in working through issues of armed forces using space resources. However, there arent phalanxes of soldiers up there, just a lot of interest in what military use of space might eventually become. The U.S. Military in Space The  theories about the military use of space stem largely from the fact that the U.S. Department of Defense flew secret missions on the shuttles when NASA was still using them to get to space. Interestingly, when NASAs fleet was being developed, there were plans to make  additional copies exclusively for military purposes. That affected the specifications of the shuttle design, such as the length of its glide path, so that the vehicle could accommodate military and top-secret missions. There was also a shuttle launch facility built in California, at Vandenberg Air Force Base. This complex, called SLC-6 (Slick Six), was supposed to be used to put shuttle missions into polar orbits. However, after the Challenger exploded  in 1986, the complex was put into caretaker status and was never used for a shuttle launch. The facilities were mothballed until the military decided to retool the base for satellite launches. It was used to support Athena launches until 2006 when Delta IV rockets began to lift off from the site.   Use of the Shuttle Fleet for Military Operations Ultimately, the military decided that having dedicated shuttlecraft for the military was unnecessary. Given the amount of technical support, staff, and facilities required to run such a program, it made more sense to use other resources to launch payloads into space. In addition, more sophisticated spy satellites were developed to accomplish reconnaissance missions. Without its own fleet of shuttles, the military relied on NASAs vehicles to meet its needs for access to space. In fact, the space shuttle Discovery was planned to be available to the military as its exclusive shuttle, with civilian use as it was available. It was even going to be launched from the militarys Vandenbergs SLC-6 launch complex. Ultimately the plan was scrapped following the Challenger disaster. In recent years, the space shuttle fleet has been retired and new spacecraft are being designed to take humans to space.   For years, the military used whatever shuttle was available at the time of need, and military payloads were launched from the usual launchpad at Kennedy Space Center. The last shuttle flight strictly for military use was carried out in 1992 (STS-53). The subsequent military cargo was taken up by shuttles as a secondary part of their missions. Today,  with the increasingly reliable use of rockets via NASA and SpaceX (for example), the military has much more cost-effective access to space.   Meet the X-37B Mini-shuttle Drone While the military hasnt had a need for a conventional manned orbiting vehicle, some situations could call for a shuttle-type craft.  However, these craft will be quite different from the current stable of orbiters- perhaps not in look, but definitely in function. The X-37 shuttle  is a good example of where the military is going with a shuttle-type spacecraft. It  was originally designed as a potential replacement for the current shuttle fleet. It had its first successful flight in 2010, launched from atop a rocket. The  craft carries no crew, its missions are secret, and it is entirely robotic. This mini-shuttle has flown several long-term missions, most likely performing reconnaissance flights and specific types of experiments.   Clearly, the military is interested in the ability to place objects into orbit as well as have reusable spy craft; the expansion of projects like the X-37 thus seems entirely possible and very likely will continue into the foreseeable future. The U.S. Air Force space command, with bases and units around the globe, is the front line for space-based missions, and also focuses on cyberspace capabilities for the country, as needed.   Could There Ever Be a Space Force? Occasionally politicians float  the idea of a space force. What that force would be or how it would be trained are still very large unknowns. There are few facilities to get soldiers ready for the rigors of fighting in space. As well, theres been no talk by veterans of such training, and expenditures for such places would eventually show up in budgets. However, if there was to be a space force, massive changes to military structures would be needed. As mentioned, training would have to ramp up on a scale so far unknown to any military on the planet. Thats not to say one couldnt be created in the future, but there isnt one now.   Edited and updated by Carolyn Collins Petersen.