Assignment Essay Example for Free

Assignment Essay Considering customer satisfaction as it applies to a university setting, what are some other areas in addition to those identified for the project that may contribute to students’ satisfaction/dissatisfaction with their education experience? The customer satisfaction survey seems to focus on academic resources only. It’s focusing on the classes, the advisors, the curriculum, and isn’t asking the students how they felt towards the school as a whole. After discussing all of the academic services and programs, they may also want to see if the students are satisfied with the environment and facilities beyond the library or computer lab. The survey should also include an area for the students to make suggestions on what would make them happier while attending this school. This would give the School of Business some suggestions on what changes could be made to make the school better. Does the current questionnaire provide information on students’ overall satisfaction with their undergraduate degree program? Explain. What revisions are necessary to this questionnaire to obtain an overall satisfaction rating? The questionnaire focuses on both undergraduate and graduate programs, but it seems to put more emphasis on graduate students. The questionnaire did provide a lot of information regarding how they felt about their classes and advisors, but it seems to be based on students who have already been attending the school for some time and have had experience with undergraduate advisors and curriculum. The questionnaire should be administered yearly in order to get a better idea of the overall satisfaction rating. They should also offer more open ended questions so that the students can provide feedback instead of just multiple questions. Can the School of Business use the results of this study to target the most important areas for improvement? Explain. Identify changes to the questionnaire that would allow the school to target areas based on importance. The School of Business can definitely use the results of this study to target the most important areas for improvement. As the results show there are several areas that the school could use improvement in. By determining what is most important will allow them to administer specific surveys or questionnaires regarding a certain issue such as the lack of advisors or not being able to register for classes. Changes they could make to the current questionnaire would be to add a space to provide your own suggestions on how to make things better. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using open-ended questions to identify the school’s strengths and weaknesses? Taking the responses in Exhibit 2, what system would you use for coding these responses? There are several advantages to using open-ended questions. Open-ended questions allow the students to share their feelings and the school will have a better idea of what they feel about certain subjects. The disadvantages of having open-ended questions are a lower response rate and it’s harder to compare their answers. It can also take much more time to go over questionnaires that offer open-ended questions instead of just close-ended ones.

Planning Definition Essay Example for Free

Planning Definition Essay Planning means looking ahead and chalking out future courses of action to be followed. It is a preparatory step. It is a systematic activity which determines when, how and who is going to perform a specific job. Planning is a detailed programme regarding future courses of action. It is rightly said â€Å"Well plan is half done†. Therefore planning takes into consideration available prospective human and physical resources of the organization so as to get effective co-ordination, contribution perfect adjustment. It is the basic management function which includes formulation of one or more detailed plans to achieve optimum balance of needs or demands with the available resources.According to Urwick, â€Å"Planning is a mental predisposition to do things in orderly way, to think before acting and to act in the light of facts rather than guesses†. Planning is deciding best alternative among others to perform different managerial functions in order to achieve predetermined goals.| According to Koontz O’Donell, â€Å"Planning is deciding in advance what to do, how to do and who is to do it. Planning bridges the gap between where we are to, where we want to go. It makes possible things to occur which would not otherwise occur†. Steps in Planning Function Establishment of objectives Establishment of Planning Premises Choice of alternative course of action Formulation of derivative plans Securing Co-operation Follow up/Appraisal of plans Planning Importance in Management Planning may be broadly defined as a concept of executive action that embodies the skill of anticipating, influencing, and controlling the nature and direction of change. McFarland Importance of Planning Planning increases the organizations ability to adapt to future eventualities Planning helps crystallize objectives Planning ensures a relatedness among decisions Planning helps the company to remain more competitive in its industry Adequate planning reduces unnecessary pressures of immediacy Planning reduces mistakes and oversights: Planning ensures a more productive use of the organizations resources Planning makes control easier Planning enables the identification of future problems and makes it possible to provide for such contingencies Planning enables the identification of future problems and makes it possible to provide for such contingencies Planning increases the effectiveness of a manager 2.Evolution of Classical Approach to Management Traditional process of learning is either through obsevation and experiment. Nature or environment is considered uniform and when we observe certain phenomenon or events uniformly leading to the same result or results, we conclude a cause and effect relationship between the two. This is learning by observation or in other words by experience. Earlier thinkers on management followed this approach in developing theories of management. Learning principally is through emphirical process and through analysis of the data collected through observation. Draw the principles of managment by looking at and anyalysing the jobs that all managers commonly do. This approach served as a starting point for pioneers on management science to verify the validity and improve the applicability of the principles and practices of management. Analysis of observd data is what constitute a case study. The observational method of case study helps arriving at logical conclusions about past experience and to test the same as standards for future events. The German sociolists, Max Weber followed the classical approach and developed his theory of Bureaucracy, which portrays the structure anddesign of organisation charqacterised by a hierarchy of authority, formalised rules and regulations that serve to guide the coordinated functioning of an organization. Basic Postulates of the Classical Approach by Max Weber 1. Management of an organization is considered as a chain of inter-related functions. The study of the scope and features of these functions, the sequence through which these are performed and their inter-relationship leads one to draw principles of management suitable for universal application 2. Learning principles of management is done through the past experiences of actual practicing managers 3. As business environment consists of uniform cycles exhibiting an underlying unity of realities, functions and principles of management derived through process of empirical reasoning are suitable for universal application 4. Emerging new managers through formal education and case study can develop skill and competency in management concepts and practices 5. The clasasical approach also recognised the importance of economic efficiency and formal organizational structure as guiding pillars of management effectigveness. 6. Business activity is based on economic benefit. Organizations should t herefore control economic incentives Neoclassical theory of management There are 3 neoclassical theories: Human Relations theory : Explains the modern advancement of Human Relations Management theory which takes into account human factors like the employer-employee relationship. Human relations theory is largely seen to have been born as a result of the Hawthorne experiments which Elton Mayo conducted at the Western Electrical Company. The important strand in the development of modern management was the increase in attention to the human factors, which has become known as the human relations school of management.’ The core aspect of Human Relations Theory is that, when workers were being observed and included in the research, they felt more important and valued by the company. As a result, their productivity levels went up significantly. This represented a significant departure from many of the classical theories, particularly Fordism, as it went against the notion that management needed to control workers, and remove their autonomy at every step. Instead, it showed that by engaging with workers and considering their requirements and needs, company’s could benefit from increased productivity. Behavioral theory : The behavioral management theory is often called the human relations movement because it addresses the human dimension of work. Behavioral theorists believed that a better understanding of human behavior at work, such as motivation, conflict, expectations, and group dynamics, improved productivity. The theorists who contributed to this school viewed employees as individuals, resources, and assets to be developed and worked with — not as machines, as in the past. Several individuals and experiments contributed to this theory. Social systems theory.: Developed by Niklas Luhmann is an option for the theoretical foundation of Human Resource Management (HRM). After clarifying the advantages of using a grand (social) theory as the basic theoretical perspective, the roots of this social systems theory the deterministic view of systems as machines, the open systems approach and non-linear systems theory are addressed. Based on the view of social systems as autopoietically closed systems, five major contributions to a theoretical foundation of HRM are identified: (1) the conceptualisation of organising and managing human resources as social processes, thus overcoming an individualistic angle; (2) the new importance of individuals as essential element in the systems environment; (3) the abstention form far reaching or highly unrealistic assumptions about the nature of human beings; (4) the interaction between various levels and units of analysis built into the theory which is essential for comprehensive and in-depth analyses of HR phen omena and (5) the openness for additional theories for which social systems theory provides the overall framework. Modern Management Theory Management is one or the other form has existed in every nook and corner of the world since the dawn of civilization. Modern Management has grown with the growth of social-economics and scientific institution. Modern view consists that a worker does not work for only money. They work for their satisfaction and happiness with good living style. Here Non- financial award is most important factor. Modern management theories started after 1950s. Modern management theory focuses the development of each factor of workers and organization. Modern management theory refers to emphasizing the use of systematic mathematical techniques in the system with analyzing and understanding the inter-relationship of management and workers in all aspect. It has following three Streams- Quantitative Approach System Approach Contingency Approach Quantitative Approach: Quantitative approach also called Operation Research. Quantitative approach is a scientific method. It emphasizes the use of statistical model and systematic mathematical techniques to solving complex management problems. Its helps the management to making decisions in operations. It can only suggest the alternatives based on statistical data. It cannot take final decision. It helps the management for improving their decision making by increasing the number of alternatives and giving faster decisions on any problem. Management can easily calculate the risk and benefit of various actions. Major contributors in Quantitative Approach are- Johan MacDonald George R. Terry Andrew Szilagyi System approach: System approach was developed inlate1960s. Herbert A. Simon is the father of system theory. A System is defined as a set of regularly interacting or inter dependent components that create as a whole unit. The system concept enables us to see the critical variables and constraints and their interactions with one another. According to Cleland and King; â€Å" A system is composed of related and dependent elements which when in interaction from a unity whole†. Characteristics of system approach: A system must have some specific components, units or sub units. A Change in one system affects the other subsystems. Every system is influenced by super system. All systems along their subsystem must have some common objectives. A system is a goal-oriented. A system cannot survive in isolation. Major contributors in system theories are- Daniel Katz, Robert L. Khan, Richard A. Johnson. Contingency Approach: Contingency Approach also knows as situational approach. In 1980s, it is recognized as a key to effective management. This approach accepts the dynamics and complexities of the organization structure. An organization is affected by its environment and environment is composed by physical resources, climate, persons, culture, economic and market conditions and their laws. This approach argues that there is no one universally applicable set of rules by which to manage organization. Major contributors in the contingency theories are- G.M. Stalker, Joan Woodward, Tom Burns, Paul R. Lawrence, L.W. Lorsch. Management by objectives (MBO) is a process of defining objectives within an organization so that management and employees agree to the objectives and understand what they need to do in the organization in order to achieve them. The term management by objectives was first popularized by Peter Drucker in his 1954 book The Practice of Management.[1] The essence of MBO is participative goal setting, choosing course of actions and decision making. An important part of the MBO is the measurement and the comparison of the employee’s actual performance with the standards set. Ideally, when employees themselves have been involved with the goal setting and choosing the course of action to be followed by them, they are more likely to fulfill their responsibilities. According to George S. Odiorne, the system of management by objectives can be described as a process whereby the superior and subordinate jointly identify its common goals, define each individuals major areas of responsibility in terms of the results expected of him, and use these measures as guides for operating the unit and assessing the contribution of each of its members. Features and advantages Some of the important features and advantages of MBO are: Motivation – Involving employees in the whole process of goal setting and increasing employee empowerment. This increases employee job satisfaction and commitment. Better communication and coordination – Frequent reviews and interactions between superiors and subordinates helps to maintain harmonious relationships within the organization and also to solve many problems. Clarity of goals Subordinates tend to have a higher commitment to objectives they set for themselves than those imposed on them by another person. Managers can ensure that objectives of the subordinates are linked to the organizations objectives. Domains and levels Objectives can be set in all domains of activities (production, marketing, services, sales, RD, human resources, finance, information systems etc.). Some objectives are collective, for a whole department or the whole company, others can be individualized. Practice Objectives need quantifying and monitoring. Reliable management information systems are needed to establish relevant objectives and monitor their reach ratio in an objective way. Pay incentives (bonuses) are often linked to results in reaching the objectives. Limitations There are several limitations to the assumptive base underlying the impact of managing by objectives,[citation needed] including: It over-emphasizes the setting of goals over the working of a plan as a driver of outcomes. It underemphasizes the importance of the environment or context in which the goals are set. That context includes everything from the availability and quality of resources, to relative buy-in by leadership and stake-holders. As an example of the influence of management buy-in as a contextual influencer, in a 1991 comprehensive review of thirty years of research on the impact of Management by Objectives, Robert Rodgers and John Hunter concluded that companies whose CEOs demonstrated high commitment to MBO showed, on average, a 56% gain in productivity. Companies with CEOs who showed low commitment only saw a 6% gain in productivity.[citation needed] Stage 1. Collectively fixing objectives The superior and subordinate managers collectively fix the objectives. The objectives are fixed for the Key Result Areas (KRAs). KRAs are those areas which are very important for the long-term success of the organisation. For e.g. R D, Production, Finance, Marketing, etc. Definite and measurable objectives should be fixed for each KRA. The time limit for achieving the objectives should also be fixed. The objectives should be achieved by the subordinate manager. For e.g. The objective for the marketing managers may be to increase the sales of product XYZ by 50% for the year 2010-2011. Stage 2. Collectively making a plan After fixing the objective, the superior and subordinate managers make an action plan. This plan will be used by the subordinate manager to achieve the objective. Stage 3. Subordinates implements the plan The subordinate manager implements the plan. That is, he puts the plan to action. He makes optimum use of the resources. If required, he takes guidance from the superior managers. Stage 4. Collectively monitoring performance This is the final stage in the MBO process. Here, the subordinate monitors (evaluates or measures) his own performance. He compares his performance with the planned targets (objectives). If there are any deviations, then the superior and subordinates managers fix new objectives. In this stage, the superior acts like a coach and guide. He does not act like a judge.

Chronic Low Back Pain and Pelvic Floor Muscle Strengthening

Chronic Low Back Pain and Pelvic Floor Muscle Strengthening Introduction Chronic Low Back Pain is a common condition now a days and refers to pain localized to lower back or lumbar spine. It is common with in adult population and there is limited research available about using the Pelvic Floor Muscle Strengthening Exercise as a physiotherapy treatment for this condition. In this essay, Chronic Low Back Pain and Pelvic Floor Muscle Strengthening Exercise will be explained briefly and its significance to physiotherapy practice will be discussed with reference to a Randomised Control Trial (RCT) by Manisha Rathi (Appendix A). Furthermore, the philosophical assumptions underpinning this study will be analysed. Finally, by using a critiquing tool (Appendix B) ,the study will be then critiqued for its strengths and limitations. Significance of the Issue Chronic Low Back Pain is a common musculoskeletal problem in modern society. Around 70 % to 85% of population will experience low back pain at some time in their life; and 5% to 15% will develop chronic low back pain (Liddle, Baxter, Gracey, 2004). Low back pain is defined as pain, muscle tension, or stiffness below the costal margin and above the inferior gluteal folds, with or without leg pain (Koes, Tulder Thomas, 2006) and Chronic low back pain is classified as pain and disability lasting for more than 12 week duration (Philadelphia panel, 2001). It commonly occurs in young age when people are in their twenties. Back and spine impairments are common in women with the value of 70.3 per 1000 population than in man where there is 57.3 per 1000 population( Andersson Gunnar, 1999). The common causes of low back pain includes stressed or irritated muscle or ligament. The strain develops over a period of time due to poor posture and when posture is not corrected, strain builds up and eventually stretches or irritates muscle or ligament producing low back pain (E.R. Viera, S Kumar 2007). Another important cause related to the development of chronic low back pain includes imbalance between flexor and extensor muscles of trunk including respiratory muscles and muscles of continence, which are responsible for spinal and pelvic support (Hides et al.,2001, Cholewicki et al., 2005) . Most important symptoms of chronic low back pain are functional disability and pain (Koes et al.,2006). Exercise therapy is widely recommended for the treatment of low back pain (Rasmussen- Barr, Ang, Arvidsson and Nilsson Wikmar, 2009). Pelvic floor exercises that contribute to the contraction of abdominals and lumbopelvic stability seems to be more effective than conventional treatment.( Manisha Rathi,2013). Pelvic Floor Muscles (PFM) form the base of abdominal cavity. Except for, their importance in patients with urinary and faecal incontinence, PFM also play vital role in proper muscle activation for stabilization and unloading of lumbar spine. Furthermore, Pelvic floor muscle contraction have also shown to produce contraction of abdominal muscles and vice -versa (Sapsford and Hodges, 2001). Morkved et al.(2007) suggest that group training (Pelvic floor muscle exercises, aerobic exercises and additional exercises) during pregnancy also provide evidence of beneficial effects in preventing lumbopelvic pain. According to Manisha Rathi (2013), there are very little published evidence to measure the effect of Pelvic floor muscle exercises in the management of chronic low back pain and hence the study was conducted, which further supported the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle exercise in females with chronic low back pain. Moreover, this physiotherapeutic intervention combined with conventional treatment seems to refurbish the functional ability as well as manage the pain in the females with chronic low back pain. Philosophical Assumptions Underpinning Quantitative Research Understanding of research can improve the depth of professional healthcare practice. Being a person trained in healthcare calls for clinical choices based on best existing research evidence (Polit and Beck 7th ed. p. 4). There are various research designs present, to offer us the appropriate information to support our clinical reasoning. This segment will discover the philosophical assumptions underpinning the research methodology used by Manisha Rathi (2013) in her study regarding the effect of Pelvic Floor Muscle strengthening exercises in chronic low back pain. This is a randomised control trial which is a true experimental type of research characterised by randomisation and control group to minimise systematic bias (Polit and Beck 7th ed. p. 225-226). The Positivist Paradigm The positivist paradigm underlies the existence of some reality and in this, much research activity is directed towards understanding and knowing it (Polit and Beck,7th ed. p.15). The recent evidence-based practice movement is an example of positivist approach to knowing (Grant Giddings, 2002, pg.14) . According to the Grant Giddings Knowledge is to be discovered so that people can explain, predict and control events. The knowledge can be acquired through research and helps with professional decision making and practice, which can lead us to best quality in health care (Polit Beck,7th ed., Grant and Giddings, 2002). Exploring the Research title Effect of Pelvic Floor Muscle strengthening exercises in chronic low back pain, the title makes it understand that the authors were trying to find out the effects of pelvic floor muscle exercises aspiring to improve the treatment plan for a group of individuals. It shows the approach of Manisha Rathi (2013) to be following the Positivist Para digm. In a positivist approach, RCT is valid to a great extent as its methodology is rated higher than others because of the type of evidence it produces(Grant and Giddings, 2002). This is another hint that Manisha Rathi(2013) was utilizing the positivist approach, as she is attempting to give information about a treatment plan by conducting a randomised control trial which is believed to produce the best evidence (Grant Giddings, 2002). Determinism Determinism is an assumption of positivist paradigm and refers to belief that phenomena i.e. observable facts and events are not haphazard or random but rather have antecedent causes (Polit and Beck, 7th ed.). Specifically, it can be said that all events occur pursuant to preceding laws or events. Manisha Rathi(2013) demonstrate determinism in her study by giving the evidence that chronic low back pain can be caused by imbalance between various muscles of trunk including respiratory muscles and muscles of continence (Pelvic floor muscles), which are responsible for spinal and pelvic support and that pelvic floor muscle exercise may show positive effects on the population suffering from this ailment. Deductive Reasoning Deductive reasoning is the process of developing specific predictions from general principles (Polit and Beck 7th ed. p.11). In other words, it is the formation of reasoning from various general statements and involves pre specified design and emphasis on specific concepts. According to Roberts and Burke (1989) It refers to an approach in which a narrow conclusion is reached, based on broader set of premises i.e. general knowledge or other research findings. For positivists, the deductive process is an approach from which one can become aware of a single reality and hypotheses are tested on the basis of a theory (DePoy Gitlins, 2005). Deductive reasoning was demonstrated by Manisha Rathi (2013), as a proper review of the study was done, which helped to form and test the hypotheses that Pelvic Floor Muscle exercise could be beneficial for patients with Chronic low back pain. Objectivity Objective methods are appreciated in quantitative research as much as possible. Objectivity is the extent to which two independent researchers would turn up to an identical or uniform conclusion i.e. judgements are not biased on the basis of personal beliefs (Polit and Beck, 7th ed. p. 340, 562). Manisha Rathis (2013) study demonstrates the basis of objectivity, as the participants had to undergo a particular inclusion and exclusion criteria which assured that only subjects (married females) of a particular age group with chronic low back pain, having persistent symptoms of pain and functional disability for more than twelve weeks must be included in the study. Pregnant females, females having Urogenital dysfunction, Pelvic inflammatory disease, Nerve injury to pelvic floor muscle, any pathology of spine or lower limb were excluded in order to avoid the bias. Defined Protocol and Empirical Evidence In Experimental research, researchers have the Independent variable, which means that the participants are exposed to different treatments or conditions. An Intervention protocol is necessary for the study to develop and specify exactly what intervention will entail i.e. who would administer it, how frequently and for how long a treatment would last. (Polit and Beck, 7th ed.). Manisha Rathi (2013) has followed a specific modules which included subjects enrolment process, their allocation of control group and treatment group and data analysis through different statistical methods. A proper treatment protocol was executed to confirm that the type of treatment and duration received by all the subjects were same. Empirical evidence, according to Polit et al. (7th ed.) is the evidence rooted in objective reality and collected through data collection, utilizing ones own senses rather than through personal beliefs or hunches. Evidence for a study in a positivist paradigm is gathered systematically, using formal instruments to collect the required information. In the study Manisha Rathi (2013) manipulated the independent variables to observe the results. The pain was determined by using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the functional disability was determined by Oswestry Disability Index. Critique According to Polit Beck,(7th ed.) A studys strengths and limitations can be assessed by critiquing of the research. The reviewers summary of the merits of the study, advice regarding the value of the evidence, and suggestions about improving the study or the report is concluded in a critique. According to Polit and Hungler (6th ed.), the quality of a research is closely related to the kinds of decisions the researcher has made in conceptualizing, designing, executing and interpreting the results of the study and critiquing further helps to provide a feedback. A Critiquing tool (ref. to Appendix B) has been used to explore and examine the strengths and limitations of the study done by Manisha Rathi (2013), which will be discussed in the following paragraphs. The Title, Abstract and Study Purpose The title of the study by Manisha Rathi (2013), is concise and gives us the information and indication about the content of study. It also reflects the research approach and the population examined. The abstract compiles the aim, research design, population, method used, results and a conclusion which provides us a brief information about the overview of the theoretical model underlying the research along with what a reader is going to find in the research paper. The result and conclusion provides a basis and creates a curiosity for a further detailed reading. Manisha Rathi (2013) has precisely determined the studys purpose of investigating the efficacy of a therapeutic exercise (Pelvic Floor Exercise) method, on a particular population, in the studys title and abstract. This is an important issue in the field of physiotherapy practice, as Chronic low back pain is a very common ailment within the adult population and the symptoms like increased pain and disability hampers the activities of daily living and is required to be addressed properly. Research Design and Research Hypotheses Manisha Rathi (2013) has applied a true-experimental design (pre test post test control group design ) and cause effect was tested through the hypothesis that PFM exercises could be of benefit for the patients with chronic low back pain. In this study the hypothesis was formulated, followed by a literature review, and then hypothesis was confirmed by process of various measurements and statistical methods. The research design was appropriate as per the research purpose and it also minimized bias and replication of this study is also possible as the study was well explained. Literature review The literature review done by Manisha Rathi (2013) was brief, up to date and included all the important information required for the study. It provides a solid basis for the new study. It was also portrayed and organised in an easy manner to understand, as it started with an introduction of low back pain, its classification, clinical factors and symptoms followed by brief information about the pelvic floor muscles exercises. Study Sample Manisha Rathi (2013) conducted a randomised control study on thirty married females, under the age group between 20- 40 years, with chronic low back pain. They were divided by random allocation into two groups i.e. an experimental and a control group. The researcher has given a good information and has well described the study sample of females with Chronic low back pain. She has followed a particular inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria for the selection of participants in order to minimize bias which strengthens the studys internal validity and also might help in getting efficient results. However, the trial was carried on a small sample size i.e. only on thirty females, 15 in each group (group A and group B). Ethical Considerations The ethical approval was granted for Manisha Rathis(2013) study by the Institutional Ethical Committee of Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy, Pune. The study was conducted in the Out Patient Department of the college and an informed consent was obtained from all the participants. However, it is not mentioned whether the participants were fully aware about the nature of the research or not. Data Collection and Analysis Methods of gathering data was appropriate. Pre intervention readings and post intervention readings were taken on the 1st day of visit and at the end of 4 weeks respectively. However, there were no follow ups. Manisha Rathi (2013), in her study, assessed pain intensity, in a subjective way, by utilizing Visual Analogue Scale and functional disability was also assessed in a subjective way, by utilizing Oswestry Disability Index , which is a reliable questionnaire. Study Results The study done by Manisha Rathi (2013) shows that the research hypotheses was adequately answered as there was improvement in pain and functional disability levels, following the treatment. Manisha Rathi(2013) has shown her findings in the graphs and has given the P value, which makes it easy to understand and co-relate the results with her conclusion. The Findings based on Manisha Rathis (2013) study would help physiotherapists to achieve better and efficient results while treating patients of Chronic low back pain with the help of Pelvic Floor Muscle exercises. However, limitations of the study includes that the pain intensity and functional disability were measured in a subjective way, on a small sample size and no follow up for treatment was done. Also, EMG and ultrasound was not done for objective outcome measures such as muscle activity and muscle thickness. Discussion The study done by Manisha Rathi(2013) supports the hypothesis that Pelvic Floor Muscle exercise could be of benefit for the patients with Chronic low back pain. Furthermore, the findings and results of her study were well linked to the facts and information provided by her in the literature review which forms a strong base of the study. Refrences Manisha Rathi (2013), has explored and gathered an ample amount of literature from various studies done in the past. This might be because low back ache is a very common condition and many studies have already been done on this ailment and its treatment. Appendix B Critiquing Tool The title Is it concise yet informative? Is the research approach suggesting the key phenomenon? Is the population group identified? The abstract Are the study area, methods, processes, conclusions and implications correctly and concisely described? Where the aims and/or objectives stated ? Does it provide a good basis for deciding whether or not the study is worth reading? Study purpose Is the purpose of the study/research problem clearly identified and relevant to your practice? Research design and research hypothesis Is there a framework/theory to guide the study? Is it appropriate? Who will be studied? What is the plan for conducting the study? Are all variables described? Does the hypothesis reflect the purpose of the study? Literature review Is the literature review provide a solid basis for the new study? Study sample Who is identified as the target population? How were the subjects chosen (e.g., randomly, conveniently)? Who is included? Who is excluded? Is the sample size sufficient? Ethical considerations Were the participants fully informed about the nature of the research? Was ethical permission granted for the study? Data collection and analysis What steps were taken to collect the data? How often was data collected and for how long? What instruments or tools were used? Are the tools adequately described for you to understand what the score means? Were data analysis procedures appropriate? Study results Is the research hypothesis answered? Could you make a change in your practice based on the results of this study? What are the strengths to using the information learned? What are the limitations or the gaps in the study? Discussion Are the findings linked back to the literature review? If a hypothesis was identified, was it supported? References Were all the books, journals and other media alluded to in the study accurately referenced? Sources Polit Beck.(2010) Essentials of nursing research: Appraising evidence for nursing practice(7th ed.) Lippincott.(pg no.102-103) Ryan, F., Coughlan , M., Cronin, P.(2007). Step-by-step guide to critiquing research. Part 2: qualitative research. British Journal of Nursing, 16, 11, 738-744. Schneider , Elliott , Lo Biondo Wood, Haber (2003), Nursing research methods, critical appraisal and utilisation. (2nd ed.). . 1

Assyrian Warfare :: essays research papers fc

Assyrian Warfare During Mesopotamian times, wars were what divided ruling periods. There were many different peoples that dominated Ancient Mesopotamia and the Assyrians were one of them. The Assyrians prospered mainly because of their divine talent to defensively resist and offensively overwhelm their enemies. At no point of Assyrian rule was there ever a time without conflict of some sort. The Assyrians were known to have a powerful, ruthless army. The army was the largest Middle East or Mediterranean fighting force that had ever been seen. It is believed that God himself promised the Israelites that if they disobeyed Him he would allow them to be taken up and carried away to foreign lands. His promise is explained in Isaiah 5:26-29. It reads, â€Å"He will whistle to them from the end of the earth; Surely they shall come with speed, swiftly. No one weary or stumble among them No one will slumber or sleep Nor will the belt on their loins be loosed, Nor the strap of their sandals be broken; Whose arrows are sharp, And all their bows bent; Their horses’ hooves will seem like flint, And their wheels like whirlwind. Their roaring will be like a lion, They will roar like young lions; Yes, they will roar And lay hold of the prey; They will carry it away safely, And no one will deliver.† Israel’s rebellion angered God and it led to war with the invincible Assyrians. The Northern Kingdom of Israel was wiped out. â€Å"Why were the Assyrians at war so much?† is a likely question to arise when discussing these people. And in my eyes the answer is simple. For land and power. The map of the beginning of the Assyrian empire compared to the end of the Assyrian empire shows great difference. It is obvious that much expansion took place during this rule. Like the Chinese Han dynasty, there was an explosion of territory growth in the Assyrian time period. Not being able to control all the land and people was the Hans’ weakness and led to their downfall. The Assyrians had an interesting policy that eliminated this problem. They would deport defeated nations and led them to captive lands. This would destroy the individuals’ sense of nationalism and would cause them to be much more willing to submit to Assyrian rule. They figured that the less people would resist, the less problem they would have with their captives and it worked well for them. Assyrian Warfare :: essays research papers fc Assyrian Warfare During Mesopotamian times, wars were what divided ruling periods. There were many different peoples that dominated Ancient Mesopotamia and the Assyrians were one of them. The Assyrians prospered mainly because of their divine talent to defensively resist and offensively overwhelm their enemies. At no point of Assyrian rule was there ever a time without conflict of some sort. The Assyrians were known to have a powerful, ruthless army. The army was the largest Middle East or Mediterranean fighting force that had ever been seen. It is believed that God himself promised the Israelites that if they disobeyed Him he would allow them to be taken up and carried away to foreign lands. His promise is explained in Isaiah 5:26-29. It reads, â€Å"He will whistle to them from the end of the earth; Surely they shall come with speed, swiftly. No one weary or stumble among them No one will slumber or sleep Nor will the belt on their loins be loosed, Nor the strap of their sandals be broken; Whose arrows are sharp, And all their bows bent; Their horses’ hooves will seem like flint, And their wheels like whirlwind. Their roaring will be like a lion, They will roar like young lions; Yes, they will roar And lay hold of the prey; They will carry it away safely, And no one will deliver.† Israel’s rebellion angered God and it led to war with the invincible Assyrians. The Northern Kingdom of Israel was wiped out. â€Å"Why were the Assyrians at war so much?† is a likely question to arise when discussing these people. And in my eyes the answer is simple. For land and power. The map of the beginning of the Assyrian empire compared to the end of the Assyrian empire shows great difference. It is obvious that much expansion took place during this rule. Like the Chinese Han dynasty, there was an explosion of territory growth in the Assyrian time period. Not being able to control all the land and people was the Hans’ weakness and led to their downfall. The Assyrians had an interesting policy that eliminated this problem. They would deport defeated nations and led them to captive lands. This would destroy the individuals’ sense of nationalism and would cause them to be much more willing to submit to Assyrian rule. They figured that the less people would resist, the less problem they would have with their captives and it worked well for them.

The Fast Food Health Scam Essay -- Health, Nutrition

For decades the fast-food industry has supplied Americans with tasty, comforting food, quickly and for a low cost. It was not until recently, when the health craze first hit America in the late 1980’s that the corporations developed a new approach to marketing health food products to fit their customer’s wants (Nielsen 450). Even the most common fast food chains, such as McDonalds and Subway started advertising â€Å"healthier† food items on their menus to continue appealing to the general public. In order to maintain significant market share of the industry, fast food companies must entice people of all ages and advertise alternative menu options, even if the nutrition content does not support the messaging. While fast food restaurants give the impression of offering healthy food, nutritionist studies show healthy alternatives are not as nutritious as advertised (Chandon 85). The reality is Fast Food companies hoax their costumers into believing the fast-food ad vertised is healthier but do not provide enough nutritional information for them to make educated decisions. The advertising technique of persuasion leads to false impressions of a product, much like the advertisement claims of selling healthy fast food. In â€Å"The Indictments Against Advertising† by Courtland L. Bovee and William F. Arens, both authors of business and contemporary advertising textbooks, briefly discuss advertising’s effect on the consumer. They also showcase business strategies, in this case the fast-food industry, persuading people to â€Å"want what they don’t need† (Bovee 358). With fast food marketing teams promoting healthy alternatives like apples instead of French fries or milk instead of soda, the companies are able to dupe the consumer into believing the... ... example, ordering a double quarter pounder with cheese and apple slices gives a false since of justification because they chose to forgo French fries (Chandon 302). Adding a marginally healthy substitute to an unhealthy entrà ©e should not be construed as a nutritional meal. Consumers also need to be aware of the adverse effects of adding high-fat high-sodium extras to their meals, such as cheese, mayonnaise, dressings, and special sauces. Instead if a person wants nutritional value within a fast-food meal they must diligently consider health content and portion size to avoid overeating and unwanted weight gain. Individuals need to take personal responsibility of their choices and not believe the false impressions of advertisers. Implementing nutritional knowledge not only while dinning in fast-food restaurants but into everyday life will lead to healthy longevity.

Retaining Employees in Small Business Essay -- essays research papers

Abstract Retaining employees is a dilemma for small businesses. Large corporations have resources specifically aimed at keeping their employees while smaller ones do not. Using online resources, we examined the issue of employee retention in small business. We found that the problem stems from different areas, lack of resources, few employees, minimal direction from management. While these issues are a problem, they are not insurmountable. Small businesses need to be innovative and creative in finding ways to keep their employees. Retaining Employees Why would a small business see higher turnover than a larger company? In general, small companies have less official company documentation and standardization with regard to job descriptions and responsibilities. Because there is a smaller employee roster, there is less opportunity for specialization. Small business employees often have to be versatile. It is for this reason that small businesses often refrain from being specific in outlining an employee’s duties: The employers themselves may not know ultimately what the expectations are of their own employees. Writes Kickul, â€Å"Instead of having explicit job assignments, job descriptions, and training programs that are traditionally seen within large organizations (Aldrich and Auster 1986; Aldrich and Langton 1997), small firms and their founders may rely on informal techniques to communicate their organizational benefits and rewards to guide and assist employees in understanding their psychological contract with the smal l business. (Kickul, Jill)† Employees often want specific descriptions of their roles and responsibility. This means having written job roles and responsibilities, and having this available to the employee. When an employee has a specific understanding of what is expected of them, they will tend to have an increased sense of job security. As mentioned in the above quote, this scenario is traditionally found in larger companies. An individual going to work for Home Depot or Wal-Mart is going to be given an employee handbook, specific outline and description of job requirements, etc. In the absence of this explicit communication, i.e. in the small business environment, there exists the possibility of miscommunication, misunderstanding, and resentment using these â€Å"informal† techniques, be they verbal, hinted at, indirectly suggested, or otherwis... ... environment that is desirable and unique can help in this process. This includes promoting from within the company and giving employees’ room to grow. Most small businesses will find that these solutions can help when there is a lack of resources. Finally, by getting creative small businesses can find solutions that cost less and will still be effective in retaining employees in the face of larger businesses.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   References Daveta, John (2001). Retaining Valued Employees No Small Task For Small Businesses.). Daily Mail.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Hayes, Scott. (1999). Payroll-Deduction Plans Help Small Companies Retain Employees. Workforce.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Jones, Alexandra. (2004). Work-Life Balance needs Correcting. Daily Mail.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Kickul, Jill. (2001). Promises made, Promises Broken: An Exploration Of Employee  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Attraction and Retention Practices in Small Business. Journal of Small Business Management. Worden, Vicki, L. (2002). Tips For Keeping Top Performers. Association Management.

Deborah Ellis Essay

Deborah Ellis started writing at age 11-12 inspired at a young age she grasped her talent. As a kid she was constantly moving from place to place due to her father’s work, and used writing as a coping method. When she grew up, her work and writing was mainly done by traveling and talking to others that have problems and taking note of everything. She started to write the book I am currently the Breadwinner her first book. The Breadwinner takes place in Afghanistan and the main character at only 12 years old is faced with the discrimination against women when her father is arrested by the Taliban and with no other way of providing for her family she dresses up as a boy and tries to find work. Coincidentally Ellis traveled to Afghanistan in 1997 to interview women located in refugee camps. These interviews helped her write her four part series of The Breadwinner. Her writing of this book was inspired by an interview with a mother living in one of the refugee camps. Ellis has become considered of the most beloved young adult writers today as well as being a philanthropist who donates almost all of her profit’s from her books to organizations like â€Å"UNICEF† and â€Å"Women for Women in Afghanistan†. Deborah Ellis is a very motivated person who feels strongly for the rights of women and takes that inspiration and uses it to write compelling stories. Of all the books she has wrote which has come to 18 in total, all of them have been moving stories of injustices. Deborah Ellis has achieved international recognition with her incredibly dramatic books that give readers a glimpse into the life of children in far out developing countries. Ellis has won the Governor General’s Award, Sweden’s Peter Pan Prize, the Ruth Schwartz Award, the University of California’s Middle East Book Award, the Jane Addams Children’s Book Award and the Vicky Metcalf Award. Deborah Ellis constantly finds new ways to express her feelings about the wrongs in the world and inspires us all when she writes about it.