Ryanair vs. Easyjet Corporate and Competitive Strategy Analysis

Introduction There are many low-cost airlines in the world. In Europe, major airline companies, such as Flybe, Wizz Air and Aer Lingus, dominate this space (Dobruszkes 2006). Jet2, Ryanair, and Easyjet are other dominant airline companies in this category.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Ryanair vs. Easyjet: Corporate and Competitive Strategy Analysis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Within this space, Ryanair and Easyjet are the two biggest low-cost airlines in the region (Elderman 2014; Dowling 2010). The two airlines are also the most popular low-cost airlines in Europe. Ryanair is an older airline company than Easyjet because its operations started in 1985, while Easyjet’s operations started in 1995 (Freire 2014). Ryanair has evolved from a family owned business into one of the most successful regional brands in the market. The company brands itself as â€Å"Europe’s only ultra low-cost airline r† because it is the region’s largest low-cost airline company (Mayer 2008). From 67 operational bases, Ryanair makes more than 1,600 flights daily. It also flies to more than 180 destinations in Europe (Mayer 2008). These destinations spread across 29 different countries in the region. Easyjet is Ryanair’s main rival. Based at London’s Luton Airport, the company travels to more than 700 destinations and has a market presence in more than 30 countries (Mayer 2008). Compared to other leading airlines in the short-haul market segment, the two airlines are among the top ten aviation companies with the highest passenger numbers in Europe. The following table shows this fact. Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Figure One: Position of Easyjet and Ryanair in the global low-cost airline market (Source: Elderman 2014) This paper analyses the corporate and com petitive strategies of Ryanair and Easyjet. However, to get a correct understanding of this assessment, this paper demonstrates how both companies create value for their shareholders and reveals the strategic choices pursued by both organisations. In later sections of the study, this paper shows the operational areas where the organisational strategies of both organisations converge and diverge. What are the Competitive Positions of both Organisations? Ryanair enjoys a dominant market share in the European low-cost airline market because it was among the first companies to adopt this strategy in the region (Malighetti et al. 2006). However, because it could not protect this strategic approach from duplication by other airline companies, it lost a significant market share to other companies, such as Easyjet. Relative to this development, Ryanair has also adopted a â€Å"red ocean† strategy where it â€Å"steals† customers from other market segments (predominantly the cu stomers of major airlines) (Thomson Baden-Fuller 2010). For example, it has â€Å"stolen† customers in the business class segment (Malighetti et al. 2006). Since the company has succeeded by adopting this strategy, it has proved that a differentiated market strategy is still vulnerable to competition. Researchers such as Kim and Mauborgne (cited in Thomson Baden-Fuller 2010) have always supported a differentiated strategy, but these developments have proved them wrong.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Ryanair vs. Easyjet: Corporate and Competitive Strategy Analysis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Therefore, a differentiated strategy is not exclusive. Nonetheless, Ryanair commands a stronger market share than Easyjet does. Concisely, Easyjet trails Ryanair air by commanding 31% of the market in the low-cost Airline sector (Air France 2011). Comparatively, Ryanair commands 40% of the market (Air France 20 11). This is the biggest market share in the European low-cost airline sector. The diagram below shows the current market shares of Ryanair and Easyjet in the European low-cost market. Figure Two: Ryanair and Easyjet market share (Source: Air France 2011) According to the diagram above, other low-cost airlines command only 29% of the market, while Ryanair and Easyjet dominate the rest of the market. The dominant market share enjoyed by Ryanair also mirrors its high customer traffic because, compared to Easyjet, the company carries 4.5 million passengers, annually, while its rival carries 3,000,000 passengers annually (Dowling 2010). Based on the strategies adopted by Ryanair and Easyjet, it is important to point out that competition determines the success or failure of the strategic approaches adopted by low-cost airlines.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More How do the Two Organisations Create Value for their Shareholders Mennen (2005) says it is important for low-cost airlines to adopt a low-cost structure if they want to create value for their shareholders. This affirmation aligns with the goal of Ryanair, which is â€Å"to firmly set up itself as Europe’s leading low-fare scheduled passenger airline through continuous improvements and expanded offerings of its low-fares service† (Freire 2014, p. 4). Easyjet also strives to become a market leader in the low-cost market segment. Both airlines create value for the shareholders in the following ways. Reinvestment Ryanair and Easyjet have always strived to support their market dominance by increasing passenger traffic through cost containment (Mayer 2008). The companies have also strived to support their leadership positions and create value for their shareholders by maintaining operation efficiencies. Profit reinvestment is a common way that the airlines create value for th eir shareholders (Mennen 2005). For example, Easyjet has managed to do so by using the company’s profits to increase its fleet size and expand into new routes (Mennen 2005). The company has also adopted the same strategy to improve passenger comfort and expand its operational network. Ryanair has also used the same strategy to meet the same goals (Mayer 2008). In this regard, both airlines have reported increased asset values and increased growth figures. Managing Competition According to Dobruszkes (2006), the relative success, or failure, of low-cost airlines lies in two factors – cost leadership and differentiation. Ryanair’s market strategy has focused on cost leadership because it strives to become the best company in the low-cost market segment (Mayer 2008; Thomson Baden-Fuller 2010). Even with these adjustments, the company has still increased its passenger numbers and remained profitable for a long time. The success of this strategy has always depended on the control and management of the four facets of cost management in the aviation sector – â€Å"employee management, equipment and maintenance, customer service costs, and airport handling costs† (Thomson Baden-Fuller 2010, p. 26). By managing and controlling competition in the sector, both Ryanair and Easyjet have generated superior values for their investors. This view affirms the opinions of researchers who say price leadership is pivotal to creating market dominance, compared to cost leadership advantages (Mayer 2008). Market Strength Alignment Focusing on market strength is also another tenet of the airlines’ competitive strategies. For example, Easyjet has maximised its productivity by operating in airports where it enjoys market leadership (CAPA 2014). Half of its seating capacity is in such facilities. Since it trails Ryanair in market strength, in some airports, the company has allocated 29% of its seats to such facilities (CAPA 2014). Ryanair has a lso focused on creating value for its shareholders by focusing its strengths on markets that it enjoys dominance. For example, it has focused on improving its performance in many routes where Easyjet does not service (Easyjet operates in 702 routes, while Ryanair operates in 1,600 routes) (CAPA 2014). This way, shareholders in both airlines get value for their investments through structured competition and increased productivity. What are the Strategic Choices for both Organisations? Ryanair The Low Cost Strategy Experts say Southwest Airlines was among the first aviation companies to exploit the opportunities that existed in the low-cost airline market segment (Dobruszkes 2006; Kew Stredwick 2005). Other airline companies, such as Ryanair, also discovered similar opportunities by leveraging their competitive advantage through the adoption of a low-cost strategy. Through its no-frills strategy, Ryanair discovered that it could be profitable by working 24 hours a day and keeping its aeroplanes in the air often (Dobruszkes 2006). Researchers say when the airline adopted this strategy, it succeeded because it was a â€Å"blue ocean† strategy – no other airline had adopted this strategy before (Ryans 2009). It created a huge demand for the airline’s services because it attracted price-conscious customers who would have chosen alternative modes of travel, or failed to travel at all, because of the high costs of air tickets. Through this strategy, Ryanair became less concerned about existing competition because it was operating in a unique market segment that other airlines had not used before (Ryans 2009). This way, it became profitable in an overcrowded industry. Today, the airline still reaps the benefit of being among the first airline companies, in Europe, to adopt the low-cost airline strategy. Partly, this is why the company commands the highest market share in the European low-cost airline market segment. Since its low-cost strategy sta rted increasing sales, Ryanair has always branded itself as a low-cost airline. Its strategy was to steal customers from dominant players in the airline industry by offering lower ticket prices compared to its rivals. To expand its customer base, the company tried to please all their customers by trying to meet the customer needs of every type of market in the industry (Malighetti et al. 2006). However, the company changed this strategy after realising it needed a differentiation strategy that would set it apart from its competitors. It also realised that its low-cost pricing strategy could not sustain its business because the margins made from such a strategy were low (Malighetti et al. 2006). Of importance, the company lacked a service advantage that would back up its cost advantage (Thompson 2005). After realising these strategic weaknesses, the company decided to introduce an outside perspective on its business model by creating superior value for its customers. In line with thi s strategy, the company also introduced value-added services to its core strategy. In this regard, it transformed its value chain for the better. This restructuring affirmed the views of Mennen (2005) who said a corporate strategy should have more value as a holistic entity as opposed to the sum of its parts. Punctuality and Efficiency Ryanair has always branded itself as an airline company that regards punctuality and efficiency as key segments of its service model (O’Connell Williams 2012). The company conveys these advantages to its customers by operating in secondary airports where long queues and complicated security rules rarely inconvenience customers (O’Connell Williams 2012). Furthermore, since the airline uses paperless booking, customers can easily buy their tickets and walk to the security gate without enduring any other sign-in rules. Comparatively, customers who fly with major airlines have to contend with these inconveniences, thereby making them less efficient and punctual compared to short-haul flight carriers. Based on these competencies, Ryanair has always argued that its success does not only depend on its low-cost strategy because its innovative on-time record and its value-added services also support its growth (O’Connell Williams 2012). Observers have also said that its fleet of new aircrafts is another strategic competency that boosts the airline’s efficiency in the airline industry (Dobruszkes 2006; Kew Stredwick 2005). Flying to Secondary Airports Ryanair prefers to fly to secondary cities and pursue an outsourcing strategy to undertake its core production services, such as catering and aircraft maintenance (Mayer 2008). This strategy emerged after learning that many flag carriers use large airports, such as Heathrow, thereby limiting its competitiveness on this platform. Indeed, it would not be able to match the same level of customer service that most customers of long-haul carriers would enjoy if the y used the larger airports. Therefore, the company decided to use secondary airports, where their customers would get efficient services. To do so, the company uses a simplified airline network. The low fare strategy intertwines with the low-cost strategy because through lower costs, the company is able to offer low fares to its customers. In line with this low-cost strategy is a simplified pricing structure. EasyJet Similar to Ryanair, Easyjet’s strategic direction came from years of studying the success Southwest Airline (Sull 1999). Borrowing from the Southwest low-cost model, EasyJet operated using one type of aircraft and a point-to-point short-haul travel (Kew Stredwick 2005). Similar to other low-cost carriers, the airline also had no in-flight meals and a rapid turnaround. Another key aspect of its strategic competence was high aircraft use (Thompson 2005). These strategic factors made the airline more profitable than other flag carriers did. Other segments of its wo rking model appear below Direct Sales Although Easyjet borrowed its strategic focus from Southwest Airline, its market strategy differed from Southwest because instead of relying on sales agents to make sales, the Airline relies on a direct sales strategy (Sull 1999). The logic behind this strategic approach is to eliminate commissions by not using travel agents. This approach was a cost-saving strategy. Similarly, the company would have to pay commissions to reservation agents and pay associated operation costs to reservation computers if it used sales agents to make sales. It chose to lower its costs by eliminating these expenses. Complementing its direct sales strategy is the paperless booking model. Low Cost Strategy Easyjet relies on the low-cost strategy because it believes that it cannot successfully compete with large aircraft carriers because they would use their economies of scale to â€Å"crash† the competition. In line with its low-cost strategy, the company also adopted a â€Å"no-frill† strategy, like Ryanair, by eliminating in-flight meals and reducing the number of aircraft attendants. The company chose this strategy because it did not believe that these services contributed to customer satisfaction (Kew Stredwick 2005). Flying to Primary Airports For a long time, Easyjet has branded itself as a committed airline that strives to optimise customer experience, always. In this regard, it strives to offer convenience to its customers by operating in major airports around Europe. By doing so, it believes that its customers can get around to where they are going in good time. Customers have appreciated this strategy by increasing ticket sales (Kew Stredwick 2005). Discussion The low-cost airline sector has been a ruthless industry for aviation players. More than 20 airlines have collapsed after adopting the low-cost strategy (Air France 2011). Of importance, experts say the European low-cost airline sector is more brutal for low-cost airline companies than the American market because both markets have different structures (CAPA 2014). The market differences are profound because profitable routes in Europe already have large airline companies that serve them. The European airline industry is also distinct because charter planes play a greater role in the industry, compared to other markets (Air France 2011). Short distance routes are also limited to low-cost airlines because European Union (EU) policies favour train services as opposed to airline services (Air France 2011). Lastly, in Europe, too much competition in the low-cost airline sector offers minimal profit margins for existing players in the industry. Therefore, the risk of overcapacity in the industry is real. This fact shows that this market has limitations that would ordinarily curtail the growth of companies that do not adopt an elaborate strategy. Ryanair and Easyjet understand these limitations and adopted elaborate strategies to navigate the econ omic challenges of operating in the low-cost airline sector (Mayer 2008). To cope with these challenges, both airlines have one dominant strategy that hinges on three factors – low costs of operations, low fares, and low frills. This understanding shows where the corporate strategies of both companies converge Where both Corporate Strategies Converge Cost Leadership and Differentiation According to Malighetti et al. (2006), the relative success, or failure, of low-cost airlines lies in two factors – cost leadership and differentiation. Ryanair and EasyJet have concentrated their corporate strategies on the cost leadership model because they both strive to become the best companies in the low-cost market segment. In this regard, both companies have gained the reputation of being the biggest low-cost airlines in Europe (Wallach 2015). Their â€Å"no frills† strategy has been a core tenet of their low-cost strategy because both airlines do not accommodate passenger meals, pre-arranged sitting arrangements, or paper-based ticketing services (Malighetti et al. 2006). Therefore, both airlines strive to minimise their operating costs by cutting expenses such as salaries and fuel costs. To do so, both airlines use the single fleet type of operation and optimize flight crew productivity (Air France 2011). Furthermore, the â€Å"no-frill† strategy works by eliminating in-flight services to lower operating costs. However, the airlines employ the smallest number of people to meet the least regulatory requirement stipulated in the aviation sector (Malighetti et al. 2006). Therefore, a key part of their strategy is meeting the minimum contractual obligations required by airlines to their customers. Where both Corporate Strategies Diverge This paper has already demonstrated that Ryanair and Easyjet use the same business model – low-cost strategy. Both airlines also have similar performance indicators in the aviation sector. For example, in 2014, both organisations reported increased passenger numbers (Wallach 2015). However, both companies have unique internal strategies that differentiate their services beyond the low-cost model. For example, both airlines fly to different types of airports. Ryanair mainly flies to secondary airports, while Easyjet flies to primary airports. By flying to primary airports, the latter has had an edge above its competition because its customers can get to their destinations faster than Ryanair’s customers who have to board a taxi, or train, to get to major cities. Evidence of this fact emerges in Paris as a common destination for both airlines. Easyjet flies to Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly Airport (two main airports in the city) (Thompson 2005). Comparatively, Ryanair flies to Beauvais-Tillà © Airport, which is almost one hour away from the city (Ryans 2009). The same example emerges in Rome as a popular destination for both airlines. While Easyjet flies to Leonardo da Vin ci–Fiumicino Airport, which is close to the city, Ryanair flies to Ciampino–G. B. Pastine International Airport, which is far away from the main business district. Summary and Conclusion Easyjet and Ryanair have similar strategies to the extent that they both share the low-cost business model. Furthermore, like Ryanair, Easyjet also bases its corporate strategy on Southwest’s business model. Both airlines have perfected this strategy by introducing new price reduction measures, such as paperless booking. These operational strategies have created immense benefits for the two airlines, including optimizing airline use and increasing airline turnaround frequencies. Both airlines also have similar marketing strategies because besides marketing themselves as low-cost airlines, both companies do not use agents to reach their customers. Stated differently, both airlines use the direct sales strategy to market their services. Comprehensively, the two organisations share almost similar strategies. Albeit these factors show areas of strategic convergence, both airlines are rivals in the low-cost airline market. Their performance will mainly depend on their ability to sustain their operational models. References Airfrance 2011, Low-cost carriers. Web. CAPA 2014, EasyJet: more aircraft come in as more cash to shareholders goes out. Stelios’ baby is in good hands. Dobruszkes, F. 2006, ‘An analysis of European low-cost airlines and their networks’, Journal of Transport Geography, vol. 14, no. 1, pp. 249–264. Dowling, T. 2010, Ryanair v easyJet. Web. Elderman, H. 2014, EasyJet Vs. Ryanair: The Curious Case Of 2 Budget Airlines. Web. Freire, A. 2014, Ryanair: Strategy Report. Web. Kew, J. Stredwick, J. 2005, Business Environment: Managing in a Strategic Context Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, CIPD Publishing, New York. Malighetti, P., Paleari, S. Redondi, R. 2006, ‘Pricing strategies of low-cost airline s: The Ryanair case study’, Journal of Transport Geography, vol. 14, no. 1, pp. 249–264. Mayer, S. 2008, Ryanair and Its Low Cost Flights in Europe, Books on Demand, New York. Mennen, M. 2005, An Analysis of Ryanair Corporate Strategy. Web. O’Connell, J. Williams, G. 2012, Air Transport in the 21st Century: Key Strategic Developments, Ashgate Publishing, Ltd., New York. Ryans, A. 2009, Beating Low Cost Competition: How Premium Brands can respond to Cut-Price Rivals, John Wiley Sons, London. Sull, D. 1999, ‘Case Study: easyJet’s $500 Million Gamble’, European Management Journal, vol. 17, no. 1, pp. 20–38. Thompson, J. 2005, Strategic Management: Awareness and Change, Cengage Learning EMEA, London. Thomson, N. Baden-Fuller, C. 2010, Basic Strategy in Context: European text and cases, John Wiley Sons, London. Wallach, B. 2015, A World Made for Money: Economy, Geography, and the Way We Live Today, U of Nebraska Press, Lincoln. This essay on Ryanair vs. Easyjet: Corporate and Competitive Strategy Analysis was written and submitted by user Jason Day 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. 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Phrasal Verb Focus about Money for English Learners

Phrasal Verb Focus about Money for English Learners As you know, native speakers of English tend to use a lot of phrasal verbs (sometimes called prepositional, multi-word verb, verbs) in everyday spoken English. In the area of money, there are many, many phrasal verbs about money that are used in both formal and informal situations. Read this short paragraph using  phrasal verbs about money in context. Next, find the definitions below to help you with understanding. Money, Money, Phrasal Verbs about Money! Well, last week I finally  dipped into  that money that I had been  putting aside  for the past year and a half. I decided that I should really enjoy myself so I  splashed out  and had a great meal at Andys. Next, I went to Macys on Saturday and  laid out  $400 for that suit Id told you about. Of course, I used a great deal of what I  had saved up  to  pay back  that bill I had  run up  on my Visa card. It feels great to finally have some money after all those years of  scraping by. Thanks again for  tiding me over  during that long winter of 05. I dont think I would have  got by  without your  bailing me out.Unfortunately, I also had to  cough up  about $250 in insurance costs. Oh well, I guess  shelling out  the cash for those things is just as necessary as anything else... Phrasal Verbs about Money Spending Money lay out - to spend money. especially a large amount splash out - to spend a lot of money on something you dont need, but is very pleasant run up - to create a large debt fork out, fork over - to pay for something, usually something you would rather not have to pay for. shell out - to pay for something, usually something you would rather not have to pay for. cough up - to provide money for something you do not want to Having Just Enough Money get by - to have just enough money for your needs scrape by - to manage to live on very little money Helping Someone with Money bail out - to help a person or organization out of a difficult situation tide over - to help someone with money for a period of time until they have enough Paying Debts pay back - to return money owed to someone pay off - to finish paying all money that is owed Saving Money save up - to keep money for a large expense in the future put aside - to save money for a specific purpose Using Saved Money   dip into - to spend part of your saved money break into - to start to use money that you have saved Here is a practice dialogue using some of the above vocabulary. More on Learning Phrasal Verbs If you are unfamiliar with phrasal verbs, this guide to  what are phrasal verbs  explains everything. Teachers can use this introducing  phrasal verbs lesson plan  to help students become more familiar with phrasal verbs and start building phrasal verb vocabulary. Finally, there are a wide variety of  phrasal verb resources  on the site to help you learn new phrasal verbs and test your understanding with quizzes. One last tip Make sure that when you are studying new verbs in the dictionary to read the  entire  entry. Dont just learn the main verb; take time to look at the phrasal verbs that are constructed using the verb. This will save you a lot of time in the long run. Believe me, if you havent been to an English speaking country, chances are that one of the biggest difficulties for you will be understanding phrasal verb usage. If you already live in a country where English is the primary language you certainly have already experienced this.

Reflective Journal Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Reflective Journal - Coursework Example Nurses must understand different stages and medical personnel in blood transfusion and adhere to the key principles of the process (Hurrell, 2014). Understandably, the nurse identified the patient by checking their surname, patient identification number, and age thus ensuring the right patient receives the blood transfusion (Hurrell, 2014). The nurse prepared the patient by informing them of the risks and benefits of the process and discussed why the transfusion was a prerequisite for the patient’s treatment. After that, the nurse assisted the patient in preparing a written and signed consent for the transfusion. The patient was of majority age/adult and hence eligible to authorize the blood transfusion. It is understandable that nurses document the patient’s consent in the medical notes (Hurrell, 2014). Consequently, the nurse observed and recorded the patient’s pulse, blood pressure, and temperature before starting the transfusion (Hurrell, 2014). Ultimately, I witnessed the nurse conduct a final identification check with respect to the patient and the blood component, which ensured that the patient received the correct blood component (Hurrell, 2014). Notably, the availability of enough nursing staff fostered the immediate administration of the blood component to limit the risks posed by bacterial proliferation (Hijji, Oweis, & Dabbour, 2012). The nurse infused blood component slowly in the initial 15 minutes, which helped in monitoring the transfusion reactions that may occur during this process. Indeed, I noted how the nurse observed and monitored the patient under blood transfusion, which ensured the recognition of potential transfusion reactions (Hijji, Oweis, & Dabbour, 2012). However, the clinical experience was negative since it did not manifest other alternative treatments for liver failure. The patient’s

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Argumentative Problem - Solution - Research Paper Example Key words: Deforestation, climate change, greenhouse effects and gases, and global warming Introduction The last 100 years have experienced an increase in global temperature by approximately 1 Fahrenheit per year, this rate is twice that observed in the last thousand years. The average energy linked carbon dioxide release according to the Pew Center on Climate Change, have risen by over 130 percent since 1850; from two hundred million to 27 billion tons per year. This is projected to rise by a further 60 percent by 2030 (Afzal, p. 1). The Arctic and Antarctic ice caps are shrinking, the ice on mountain tops is melting, and the permafrost at the arctic is thawing. Scientific uncertainty exists concerning the severity and speed of global warming and climate modifications. Global warming is occurring for sure, and the health impact of this phenomenon will certainly necessitate informed responses by healthcare professions (Gray, p. 6-10). Overview of Climate Change and Global Warming Gre enhouse effects influence global warming. Greenhouse effects describe the rise in earth’s temperature due to the presence of such gases as methane, and carbon dioxide in the earth’s atmosphere. ... Human activity increases greenhouse gases production increasing their effects on earth. Greenhouse gases increase leads to lowered irradiation of infrared rays back to space. As a result, earth’s average temperatures rise, contributing to climate change (Afzal, p. 1). Hypothesis Climate change is a phenomenon that the world is currently experiencing. This is attested by climate changes worldwide. There has also been an increase of health complications related to climate change such as lung complications, skin and heart complications. This paper gives a brief overview of global warming and its effects on public health. Methods Statistical methods were used to analyze the problem. Earth’s temperature data collected from satellites in outer space, balloons and remote sites were compared to proxy temperature. Data from areas hard hit by climate change and global warming was used to study the health effects of the phenomenon on humans (Reiter, p. 5-14). Results Mounting evid ence suggests that global warming affects human health through events such as changes in water and air quality, extreme weather events as well as infectious disease ecology changes. Europe in 2003 experienced the hottest summer in years with average temperatures exceeding the normal temperature by 3.5 degrees Celsius. Close to 22,000 people died due to this heat wave. Chicago residents in 1995 experienced heat waves reaching 106o F, which resulted to the death of hundreds. In 2005, United States experienced the impact of an extreme weather event; Hurricane Katrina, which resulted to the death of 1,464 people. These events demonstrate the challenge of coming up with an effective and efficient public health response (Afzal, p. 1). During most of the flooding

The Future Pedagogy Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

The Future Pedagogy - Article Example Thus we see an explosion in the education system which had come out of its traditional boundaries. The world was earlier divided into nations and communities. The globalization of trade and commerce had a twin effect on education. As the world converted into a global village so did the communities by melting into each other and communication on a common scale became a necessity. English had already become the language of commerce, more by default than by design, and it was but natural that it also became the most used language of communication in social, technological, scientific and other fields. The pedagogy of the language became a foremost concern and many ways and means were developed and tried to teach English as a second language (ESL). The pedagogy, where the students or learners had to be trained through the use of computers and software, is already in place. It had been in common use for dissemination of knowledge of subjects other than the language. Yet knowledge of English as a language was required as the subjects were well covered in this language. There is, however, a gap in the pedagogy of language. It was still being taught in the traditional way. By far the biggest barrier in the way of Language Acquisition especially English as Second Language (ESL) is the cultural difference between those who use English as First Language and those who have other Language as their first Language. It will be demonstrated later in the paper that as culture and language are intertwined, the study of one without the knowledge of the other becomes fructuous. This is another problem that needs addressing and is presently being handled through mixed culture classes and interaction between sets of students with distinctive cultures. But is this enough? Is this the final solution? Is there a more superior yet easier method? Words and their meanings are often misleading.  

A nuture theory of human behavior

A nuture theory of human behavior The nature versus nurture debate is one of the most convoluted in the field of psychology. In the 17th century, a French philosopher, Renà © Descartes posited that we all, as individual human beings, have certain innate ideas that enduringly underpin our approach to the world (Crawford, 1989 p 64). The use of the terms nature and nurture henceforth has referred to the roles of heredity and environment respectively in human development. Some scientists believe that human beings behave as they do in response to genetic predisposition. This is known as the nature theory of human behavior and is the view espoused by naturalists (Scott, 1995). Other scientists think otherwise; that people think and behave in certain ways because they are taught to do so. This is known as nurture theory of human behavior and is the view of empiricists. Presented in the paper are the theories of nature vs. nurture, elucidation of perception, intelligence and personality within the debate. In addition, the paper discusses eevidences in favor of nurture and the influence of environment on behavior and morality. In exploring the nature versus the nurture debate, the writer presumes that nature endows human beings with inborn abilities and traits while nurture takes these genetic tendencies and molds them as humans learn and mature. Theories of Nature vs. Nurture According to naturalists, personality is natural. This group believes that personality is a result of evolutionary process. Human beings, it believes, inherit behaviors due to a complex interaction of genes. As such, genes control their behaviors. They believe that form and characteristics measured with personality tests remain stable throughout human life. They further believe that human beings may sharpen their types or personality but can never change them altogether. Darwins Theory of Evolution led naturalists such as George Williams, William Hamilton, and many others to the idea of personality evolution. They proposed that physical organs and personality is a result of natural selection (Herschkowitz, 2002). Human beings do as their genes dictate. In support, Steven Pinker (2004) includes conservativeness, religiousness and liberalism as gene related traits. William Paley, in agreement, believes cognitive capabilities, temperaments, and cheating behaviors are inheritable. There are however various assumptions about nature. Evolutionary psychologists believe that behaviour is a result of natural selection in the environment of evolutionary adaptation (EEA). Interpersonal attraction therefore can be explained as a consequence of sexual selection men and women select partners who enhance their reproductive success (Crawford, 1989). Arguments for the supremacy of nurture posit that personality is nurtured. This group argues that one does not get personality from inheritance. They argue that the mind is a blank slate at birth. The definition of nurture has extended to influence of development that emanates from prenatal, parental, peer influence and extending to the role of media, marketing and socio-economic status (Scott, 1995). They dispute that types and characteristics measured with personality tests change incessantly throughout ones life. Harvard psychologist B. F. Skinners, experiments, produced birds that could dance and play tennis. Today, known as the father of behavioral science, Skinner ultimately went on to prove that human behavior could be conditioned in much the same way as animals. If environment did not play a part in determining an individuals traits and behaviors, then identical twins should be the same in all respects, even if reared apart. However, a number of studies show that they are nev er exactly alike, even though they are remarkably similar in most respects (Michaels, 2001). Assumptions about nurture are also present. Radical psychologists such as Skinner and Watson, for instance, claim that all behaviour can be described in terms of experience alone. Skinner (1957) suggested that acquisition of language by a child could be explained entirely in terms of rewards and shaping. The double bind theory of schizophrenia, for instance, suggests that schizophrenia developed in children who frequently received contradictory messages from their parents. Nature vs. Nurture Perception Two main theories of perception are advanced to explain the debate about nature versus nurture. Gibson (1979 as cited by Cardwell and Flanagan, 2004. P 262)  [1]  argued that perception is innate because the sensory array is sufficiently rich in information for perception to take place without any additional cognitive input. Gregory (1972) on the other hand pointed to the ambiguous and fragmentary nature of most sensory input, which must thus rely on expectations (derived from experience) to complete the perceptual process (Michael, 2001). Intelligence and Personality- Nature vs. Nurture Evidence in favor of nature has been reinforced by hypothesis on IQ that has been tested on twins and adoptees. Monozygotic twins raised apart are highly similar in IQ (0.74), more so than dizygotic twins raised together (0.6) and much more than adoptive siblings (~0.0) (Crawford, 1989). In other studies done in Harvard, identical twins reared separately exhibited likeness in the timing and pattern of development and maturation. Further was a likeness in some of the foundations of temperament and behavior, from sensitivity to activity to emotional response (Westen, 2002). This denoted that the personality of twins was influenced by their genetics than the environment they were raised. Environment on the other hand does play a role in the formation of who we are and does effect the development of our personality and intelligence. By altering the environment in which a person is raised, there can be some effect on the persons developing intelligence and personality. While this is true, the results of the twin studies cannot be ignored (Westen, 2002). These studies show that our genetics have a stronger influence than our environment. Across a variety of traits, including IQ, personality indicators such as political conservatism, conviviality, and even religiosity, homosexuality, and neuroticism, identical twins are more similar to one another than are fraternal pairs. This indicates that genes affect these aspects of personality. Gene mapping studies (Crawford salmon, 2004) have identified individual genes associated with high IQ. There is strong evidence for the effects of nurture, for example, the fact that IQs all over the world have increased as much as 20 poin ts over 30 years. No matter where human beings are raised, it cannot completely change the genes that they are born with. These studies have produced substantive evidence of heritability. What varies from study to study is the quantity that can be attributed to heritability. Indication suggests that family environmental factors may have an effect upon childhood IQ, accounting for up to a quarter of the variance. On the other hand, by late adolescence this relationship disappears, such that adoptive siblings are no more similar in IQ than strangers are (Westen, 2002). Evidence in Favor of Nurture John Watson in 1924 attempted to challenge nature beliefs by asserting that if given a dozen of healthy infants and his own world to nurture them, he would be able to take each infant and train them to be any type of specialist he might select-doctor, lawyer or even a thief. This became a famous quote in the heyday of behaviorism, when the child was considered a tabula rasa (blank slate) onto which anything could be sculpted through environmental experience. This would be a 100% environmental view, but virtually no psychologists would accept such an extreme position today (Crawford salmon, 2004). Influence of the Environment on Behavior and Morality A variety of explanations might account for this. From a biologic or developmental perspective, one might argue that pre-homosexual children are more likely to be targets for molestation. In a sociological perspective, children who have pre-homosexual experiences are most likely to experience confusion over their sexual identity and later define themselves as homosexuals. From the perspective of the moral environment, one may argue that a society with a progressively more neutral outlook of homosexual behavior will grant fewer and weaker checks on those who associate early homosexual experience with a homosexual identity (Scott 1995). Levy, a psychologist, examines the roles played by nature and nurture in the origin of moral dispositions. He asserts that evolution gives human beings a precondition of morality. However, he states that Evolution gives us the preconditions of morality, but it is only as a result of the cultural elaboration of this raw material that we come to be moral beings. He further states that human beings are animals and can never free themselves of their biological heritage. He states that human beings have no need since it enables flexibility, rational and caring behavior which they could want and allows them to seek to become more moral beings (Carlson, 2005). Conclusion Researchers on all sides of the nature vs. nurture debate concur that the link between a gene and a behavior is not the same as cause and effect. While a gene may increase the likelihood that you will behave in a particular way, it does not make people do things (Scott, 1995). This means that we still get to choose who we will be, when we grow up. Social scientists gradually understand the extent of the interactions that take place between nature and nurture. The presence of genes does not by solely ensure that a particular attribute will be evident. Genes require the suitable environments for natural tendencies to be fully articulated. These proper environments consist not only of natural environs but also of individuals social and symbolic setting (Westen 2002). But even for intermediary heritabilities, a trait is always shaped by both genetic dispositions and the environments in which people develop, merely with greater and lesser plasticities associated with these heritability me asures. All in all nature relies on nurture and vice versa and hence both coexist together.

Columbus?s Arrival :: Christopher Columbus Essays

Columbus’s Arrival A lot of people would agree that Christopher Columbus was the founder of and first to discover America. On the other hand, people have come to the conclusion that Christopher Columbus was the worst thing that could have ever happened to America. This is the question were trying to find, would it have been better if he never even discovered this unexplored continent? Through all of my research and interviews I’ve come to this conclusion. There are to many good and bad arguments dealing with Columbus, too many to even make my own decision but here are a few things that other people in my generation have to say. Before Christopher Columbus came, life in this unexplored territory was vast and extremely empty except for the native Americans that inhabited a few separated acres of this continent. They were here before anybody they had discovered Cuba, the west coast and even the Pacific Coast of California. Life was plain and simple for the Natives, they had adequate amounts of food and water they had treatments for almost all diseases they were just fine and dandy except for the occasional tribal war over land. Soon that life was about to change and all credit is given by most to Christopher Columbus.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"First of all he never even reached America, he landed in Cuba. Second he, not personally, was the reason for thousands of Native Americans deaths†. Indigo Rodriguez. â€Å"He brought over so many diseases that there really was no chance for the natives to survive.† Cort Zimmerman. His arrival brought so many horrific things but the one that really caught my attention from what people said was that of the forcing of the Christian religion on the natives. The Spanish (Columbus), came over with a mentality of, our religion is the only one that will lead you to heaven so either you convert or we’ll kill you.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"I’m sorry to say this but if things didn’t happen the way they did, society and religion wouldn’t be as prosperous as it is today. We could still be learning how electricity works if it weren’t for him†¦ This county might not even of turned out Democratic, the Russians could of got here first and actually of prospered with a communist society.† Dimitri Boyd. I asked people of what they thought of science and evolution and the response from a majority was that of â€Å"I’m all for it, I wouldn’t have such a cool car if it wasn’t for science. Columbus?s Arrival :: Christopher Columbus Essays Columbus’s Arrival A lot of people would agree that Christopher Columbus was the founder of and first to discover America. On the other hand, people have come to the conclusion that Christopher Columbus was the worst thing that could have ever happened to America. This is the question were trying to find, would it have been better if he never even discovered this unexplored continent? Through all of my research and interviews I’ve come to this conclusion. There are to many good and bad arguments dealing with Columbus, too many to even make my own decision but here are a few things that other people in my generation have to say. Before Christopher Columbus came, life in this unexplored territory was vast and extremely empty except for the native Americans that inhabited a few separated acres of this continent. They were here before anybody they had discovered Cuba, the west coast and even the Pacific Coast of California. Life was plain and simple for the Natives, they had adequate amounts of food and water they had treatments for almost all diseases they were just fine and dandy except for the occasional tribal war over land. Soon that life was about to change and all credit is given by most to Christopher Columbus.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"First of all he never even reached America, he landed in Cuba. Second he, not personally, was the reason for thousands of Native Americans deaths†. Indigo Rodriguez. â€Å"He brought over so many diseases that there really was no chance for the natives to survive.† Cort Zimmerman. His arrival brought so many horrific things but the one that really caught my attention from what people said was that of the forcing of the Christian religion on the natives. The Spanish (Columbus), came over with a mentality of, our religion is the only one that will lead you to heaven so either you convert or we’ll kill you.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"I’m sorry to say this but if things didn’t happen the way they did, society and religion wouldn’t be as prosperous as it is today. We could still be learning how electricity works if it weren’t for him†¦ This county might not even of turned out Democratic, the Russians could of got here first and actually of prospered with a communist society.† Dimitri Boyd. I asked people of what they thought of science and evolution and the response from a majority was that of â€Å"I’m all for it, I wouldn’t have such a cool car if it wasn’t for science.

Integrity Issues in the Criminal Justice for Probation Officers Essay

When becoming a Probation Officer there are requirements of guide lines that must be followed in order to remain with great integrity and honesty. These requirements are as followed; 1)Purpose (conducting professional and ethical standards and perform their duties with diligence and honesty. 2)Policy ( partnership developed with the community, respect and confidence in our ability to protect the public, and supervise offenders at a level of security commensurate with the danger they represent. 3)Scope (conducting one self on or off duty) which this policy is organized into eight principles. The three issues that I feel could compromise one’s credibility are; 1) not following the law of conduct on or off duty, 2) over achieving their power that they are authorized to use and 3) not being courteous and respecting the offenders. In order to keep these issues from becoming a pitfall into a probation officers profession is when he or she is off duty they need to keep their personal life personal because they are entitled to a personal life. It is how they conduct themselves when in the public. Example: Sally June is invited to a house party at Cheryl’s house once Sally arrive there she know what her profession is and the people that are going to be there is the public. She must conduct herself in a professional manner and be able to make professional decisions knowing that there will be alcohol beverages at this party. Therefore she should not be refrained from having a drive but should know how much to drink and how to carry herself after the drink in order to keep her integrity with the public. People know that you have a professional job and see you in the public drunk or intoxicated they loose all respect for you. Another issue that could be changed is the attitude that some probation officers show toward the offenders that they are responsible for. They should give them the same respect that they are seeking from that offender because no one like to be talked to any kind of way that creates the offender to acquire an attitude issue with the probation officer. Some probation officers take advantage of their power that they loose all respect from the offender, their co-workers, and the offender’s families. There should be continuous education or training on how to conduct yourself when working with any other people. REFERENCES http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/Content/CJST/Menu/Officer-requirements-Main-Page/CPO-Et†¦

Dieppe Raid essays

Dieppe Raid essays Many people believe that the Dieppe Raid was a success. This was in fact true. There were many things learned that tragic day, that will be with us for a long time to come. The Dieppe Raid gave allies the experience and knowledge to be successful in other raids, and confrontations. After the raid, allies became aware that there were elements ever so crucial to their further success. Learning the physical properties of the battleground soon became a must, along with learning to better arm and defend, and that the element of communication must be exercised to a high degree. The Dieppe raid carried with it a high cost, but the lessons learned were invaluable and led directly to the success of the Normandy landings. The Dieppe Raid was to be considered a learning experience for the Canadians. It was to be a test for future invasions. 4936 Canadians ¹, who were restlessly awaiting an opportunity such as this, were sent to a beach on the French coast. Accompanying them, were 1000 Canadians, and 50 Americans. On August 19, 1942, these brave men fought, many knowing that they would never return. Tragedy struck that day, roughly 907 men died, 1154 were wounded, and 1894 became prisoners of war ². This horrible loss may never have occurred, had the allies demonstrated better organization. At Dieppe, men walked onto that beach having no idea what to expect. The commanding officers in charge of setting up the attack had neglected to consult a topographical viewpoint of the beach ³. This would have clearly shown that landing on beaches surrounded by 100-200 foot cliffs would leave troops vulnerable, and unable to escape the awaiting Germans. This showed the allies that it was crucial to be fully knowledgeable on all physical terrain that was to be travelled in the future. Many men were gunned down before they were even given a chance to retaliate. Before they could even make it to shore, they were being slaughtered. Allies had ...

North By Northwest essays

North By Northwest essays Lines appear, forming slanted boxes on which the credits appear The lines become the windows of a large building Main character talks to his secretary about his plans They go over his schedule for the next day while driving to his appointment He asks her to call his mother and remind her of their evening engagement As she drives away, he remembers that his mother cant be reached at the usual number, but doesnt have time to tell his secretary before the cab drives away Function/Theme: Shows busy office life Explanation: Roger Thornhills life is full of activity Roger Thornhill attracts the porters attention to ask him about sending his mother a telegram The villains see him and assume that hes George Kaplan As he follows the porter, hes stopped by two men, one of whom has a gun, and is led away, insisting that theyve made a mistake Function/Theme: The wrong place at the wrong time/Mistakes happen Explanation: Thornhill is seen talking to the porter whod been looking for George Kaplan, and its assumed that he is therefore Kaplan Thornhill tried to engage the man on his left in conversation to find out whats happening and is frustrated when his attempts fail Thornhill leans over the man on his left to try to escape, but finds the door is locked and is disappointed Function/Theme: Shows Thornhills persistence/Making the best out of a bad situation Explanation: Thornhill had been kidnapped and is on his way to an unknown location Lester Townsend enters and engages George Kaplan in conversation about who he is Townsend refers to Thornhill as Kaplan, and Thornhill tries to explain his identity Townsend hints that Kaplan might not survive the evening if he doesnt cooperate Thornhill insists that he has to be on his way to the theater in New York to see a play he&...

The UK Banking System Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The UK Banking System - Essay Example Many of these do not have a physical presence in the UK but can accept deposits on a cross-border basis. Assets and liabilities of the UK banking sector reached 4,165bn at the end of 2003, nearly three times the 1993 total. Although their share decreased somewhat during the past decade, foreign banks still held over half of UK banking sector assets in 2003. European banks accounted for nearly a half of this, followed by US and Japanese banks (Delta Quest Network, 2005). Bank of England is responsible for maintaining overall stability of the financial system as a whole. Since its responsibilities for supervising individual banks were transferred to the FSA, the financial stability role of the Bank has been to focus on identifying and limiting systemic financial risk. This involves close monitoring of the financial system infrastructure, particularly payments systems. The Bank also monitors economic and financial market developments, as part of an overview of the system as a whole. Now-a-days, the main focus of most of the banks is on risk management primarily on reputational, regulatory, operational and strategic risk, as well as the more traditional credit and market dimensions of risk. There are a number of factors responsible for this increased focus. The major of them are globalization, the relatively favourable economic environment - such that the UK banking sector has made record profits again this year, it remains highly capitalised and asset quality remains strong; the reputational impact that high profile regulatory issues are seen to have had - on both the retail and wholesale side - and the shift in the regulator's focus towards governance and control issues; and the unprecedented volume of regulatory change (Hale, 2004). Both the UK and world economy are continuously gaining advantage from a sustained period of consistent growth. The banks have benefited from the economic health, producing a strong financial performance over the last few years and in the first half of 2004. They remain well -capitalized and there are no signs of any serious deterioration in asset quality. Yet, the risk of macroeconomic outlook continues to exist. The move to slightly higher interest rates is the first aspect to be considered. To state the obvious, higher interest rates will increase the cost and reduce the affordability of both the stock of consumer lending and new loans. Although the monetary authorities both in the UK and abroad are managing the turn in the interest rate cycle with great care, regulators are required to acknowledge the risk that the shift to a more moderate rate of growth in consumer borrowing may not be universally smooth (Hale, 2004). Secondly, the decline in lending margins. A long period of strong personal sector credit quality, coupled with strong competition for lending business, has helped squeeze margins to historically low levels. The effects of this on the bottom line have been disguised by strong volume growth. There are two downside risks for the banking sector in the UK as felt by the FSA. The first is that, the period of strong volume growth may be coming to an end. The second is that a downturn could expose banks as having under- priced risk through the cycle. The Northern Rock Crisis Northern Rock is

Nanotechnology Annotated Bibliography Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Nanotechnology - Annotated Bibliography Example The purpose of the site is to explain the basic concepts related to nanotechnology and refer to the latest news, events and articles. The author Earl Boysen was a co-author of the book Nanotechnology for Dummies (Richard Booker & Earl Boysen, Wiley Publishing). He started the website with view to explaining the concepts in book in simpler understandable format. I am recommending this site because the website contains excerpts from the book Nanotechnology for Dummies further explaining the concepts in detail. It is a good resource for gaining a basic understanding of the field and to remain in touch with the latest research activities. It provides links to resources and articles for further reading, lists the descriptions of jobs available in the field. It even provides a simple lesson plan for the students of middle and high schools. The purpose of the site is to host a complete book related to the basics of nanotechnology online. The author Drexler, K. Eric, Ph.D., is an active researcher and author of a number of conference and journal articles besides this book. His work mainly focuses on the advanced nanotechnologies and the directions of the current research. He also served as Chief Technical Consultant to the Technology Roadmap for Productive Nanosystems and is currently working with World Wildlife Fund exploring nanotechnology-based solutions to global problems such as energy and climate change. I am recommending this site because the entire book is available online in html format. The book covers the basic context, concept and possible applications of nanotechnology and therefore can be used as a good creative study reference guide. The purpose of the site is providing latest research and development news, articles, resources and a blog on nanotechnology and its applications as well as any raised issues. The publisher, Foresight Institute is a