Events that occurred on June 20, 1981 essays

Events that occurred on June 20, 1981 essays The America of the early 1980s was characterized by concerns relating to the Cold War. On June 21, 1981, for example, the Soviet Union launched a research satellite to dock with the Salyut 6 space laboratory. Though ostensibly for research purposes, the thought of a permanent orbiting Soviet station in space raised concern in the United States regarding Soviet technology ("Soviet Plans Big Orbiting Station"). This growing concern over the harmful potential of foreign technology was also evident in the American interest in the first Arab nuclear conference that just concluded in Damascus, Syria. The conference ended with an agreement to establish nuclear power stations in Arab countries. This conference marked the first foray of Arab nations into nuclear technology ("Arab Nations Set Up Group to Promote Nuclear Power"). Domestically, the United States was further being buffeted by labor disputes. The Air Control Union agreed to delay a scheduled walkout, but continued to agitate for more benefits for its members. The threatened strike caused a great deal of public worry, since a strike by air traffic controllers would disrupt nationwide air travel (Witkin). In addition to the threatened air traffic strike, many Americans were also dealing with the loss of the nation's pastime. Baseball players continued to be on strike, and relations between both sides deteriorated further after failed talks. The resulting delay in the start of baseball season added to the somber air permeating the country. Perhaps partly because of this uncertainty, people turned to the movies and television for entertainment. The most popular programs were comedies, including the hit movie "Cannonball Run" and programs such as "Eight is Enough." Game shows like "The Price is Right" and "The $100,000 Name that Tune" were also popular primetime choices. Such programming ...

Quantum Zeno Effect

Quantum Zeno Effect The quantum Zeno effect is a phenomenon in quantum physics where observing a particle prevents it from decaying as it would in the absence of the observation. Classical Zeno Paradox The name comes from the classic logical (and scientific) paradox presented by ancient philosopher Zeno of Elea. In one of the more straightforward formulations of this paradox, in order to reach any distant point, you have to cross half of the distance to that point. But to reach that, you have to cross half that distance. But first, half of that distance. And so forth... so that it turns out you actually have an infinite number of half-distances to cross and, therefore, you cant actually ever make it! Origins of the Quantum Zeno Effect The quantum Zeno effect was originally presented in the 1977 paper The Zenos Paradox in Quantum Theory (Journal of Mathematical Physics, PDF), written by Baidyanaith Misra and George Sudarshan. In the article, the situation described is a radioactive particle (or, as described in the original article, an unstable quantum system). According to quantum theory, there is a given probability that this particle (or system) will go through a decay in a certain period of time into a different state than the one in which it began. However, Misra and Sudarshan proposed a scenario in which repeated observation of the particle actually prevents the transition into the decay state. This may certainly be reminiscent of the common idiom a watched pot never boils, except instead of a mere observation about the difficulty of patience, this is an actual physical result that can be (and has been)  experimentally confirmed. How the Quantum Zeno Effect Works The physical explanation in quantum physics is complex, but fairly well understood. Lets begin by thinking of the situation as it just happens normally, without the quantum Zeno effect at work. The unstable quantum system described has two states, lets call them state A (the undecayed state) and state B (the decayed state). If the system is not being observed, then over time it will evolve from the undecayed state into a superposition of state A and state B, with the probability of being in either state being based on time. When a new observation is made, the wavefunction that describes this superposition of states will collapse into either state A or B. The probability of which state it collapses into is based on the amount of time that has passed. Its the last part which is key to the quantum Zeno effect. If you make a series of observations after short periods of time, the probability that the system will be in state A during each measurement is dramatically higher than the probability that the system will be in state B. In other words, the system keeps collapsing back into the undecayed state and never has time to evolve into the decayed state. As counter-intuitive as this sounds, this has been experimentally confirmed (as has the following effect). Anti-Zeno Effect There is evidence for an opposite effect, which is described in Jim Al-Khalilis Paradox as the quantum equivalent of staring at a kettle and making it come to the boil more quickly. While still somewhat speculative, such research goes to the heart of some of the most profound and possibly important areas of science in the twenty-first century, such as working toward building what is called a quantum computer. This effect has been  experimentally confirmed.

Explaining a Concept Research Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 8

Explaining a Concept Research Paper - Essay Example This research paper, therefore, purpose to provide the definition of human trafficking as well as elucidating how it differs from human smuggling. The document will also argue in detail the aspect of Minor Sex Trafficking and mention new laws that defend victim’s necessities. Undoubtedly the role of Christian organizations is crucial in providing assistance to the victims of sexual trafficking. After that, the discussion will also mention some of the organizations that contribute to psychological and financial support to the victims of this unpleasant experience. Global human trafficking is estimated to be about 600,000 to 4,000,000 with the majority of human trafficking individuals being victims of sex trafficking. According to De Chesnay, sex trafficking is explained as the conscription, sheltering, shipping, necessitating, or acquiring of people for the intentions of commercial sex, (De Chesnay 1990). Notably, human trafficking differs from human smuggling because the latter involves a situation where a person freely requests to be transported outside the country of birth of migration. Trafficking in persons, on the other hand, refers to trade in humans, most commonly for the purpose of sexual slavery. Trafficking is not only illegal but also a serious crime that result to a severe violation of the human’s rights. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, human trafficking has increased dramatically to the point of being an epidemic, (United Nations 47-48). Even though, the United States Government knows about this crime; it is very difficult to estimate the real number of victims because many of these victims do not report their victimization. Hartjen & Priyadarsini (2012) claims that the State Government estimates that about 14,500 to 17,500 people cross over into the United States annually, (Hartjen & Priyadarsini 173). David Hodge argues further that most of the trafficking in the United States involves citizens that have

Educational Enquiry Education Article Analysis Essay

Educational Enquiry Education Article Analysis - Essay Example The article by Myhill is somewhat more vague in its statement of purpose in the abstract.   It essentially states that the purpose of this article was to understand â€Å"secondary-aged writer’s compositional processes, both as observed in a naturalistic classroom settings and through [†¦] interviews†. From the reports of the findings, however, it is clear that the researcher was interested in forming particular profiles for particular types of writers, seeing what kinds of writers fit in to them, and understand better how self-aware students were about their writing process.The article by Myhill is somewhat more vague in its statement of purpose in the abstract.   It essentially states that the purpose of this article was to understand â€Å"secondary-aged writer’s compositional processes, both as observed in a naturalistic classroom settings and through [†¦] interviews†. From the reports of the findings, however, it is clear that the resear cher was interested in forming particular profiles for particular types of writers, seeing what kinds of writers fit in to them, and understand better how self-aware students were about their writing process. The Cremin et. al. abstract did not specify any particular scope or scale in terms of age, beyond indicating that all students in the study were primary students, nor on the size of the study, and its applicability to other fields.   It was, however, fairly specific in indicating it was only interested in drama writing. as a support for developing writing skills. The Myhill article is very specific on the scale of the research, indicating that it was carried out on only â€Å"38 children† from â€Å"Year 9 and Year 11† (Myhill 2010). It also recognizes the preliminary nature of this research, indicating that the â€Å"implications of [the article’s] findings† need â€Å"further confirmatory research (Myhill 2010). With how vague the scope and scal e of the research is in the Cremin et. al. article, it is very difficult to say whether it was appropriate to answer the research questions presented in the abstracts. The fact that the article gives an overview of two pilot study and a larger main study suggests that it is probably appropriate for the research question, given the narrow focus on drama. The scope and scale of the Myhill article, especially noting its relatively small sample size, are insufficient to actually form strong evidence for the research question. This is acceptable, however, given that the author explicitly states the purpose of this article was to reach preliminary answers and encourage further research. The Cremin et. al. abstract clearly had accessibility as a primary concern: it uses relatively simple language and no academic jargon, though it did have complex sentence structures. The Myhill article was significantly more complex, using terms like â€Å"post hoc† (after the fact) and seemed inten ded for a more professional audience (Myhill 2010). Neither of these articles had attached keywords. Some appropriate key words for both articles would be: writing, writing theory, educational theory, education and pedagogy, because all of these issues are central to both articles. The Cremin article should have individual keywords including drama and primary education, while the Myhill article should include words including secondary education, writing composition and qualitative study to give a good indication as to its subject matter, focus and sample demographics. Upon searching for some of these key words, it was interesting to see that some were much more specific and helpful than others. The keyword â€Å"pedagogy† for instance, returned tens of thousands of results on a truly gigantic range of education related topics, as one would perhaps imagine given the

Chinese Starbucks Essay Example for Free

Chinese Starbucks Essay Starbucks has found success in the USA because of marketing towards â€Å"20-40 year old men and women who are concerned with social welfare† thus creating the coffee house atmosphere-Heather Karr Employee of Starbucks in Madison, WI. The coffee house in the US includes college students studying, young professionals having casual meetings, â€Å"Soccer Moms† grabbing a cup of Joe after dropping the kids off at school, etc. All-in-all Starbucks is selling not coffee but the idea of a â€Å"coffee break†, a time during the day that one can sit back, relax, and forget about the daily grind. Starbucks had to consider this as part of their main success and research China’s culture to see this same possibility existed for them there. Luckily they found that it did. Due to China’s communistic government implementing a â€Å"One Child Law† the same age demographic surprisingly existed: 20-40 year old men and women who want a place to socialize and take a break from their lives. The Family Planning Law in China was implemented to control the growing population in China, has many exceptions, and began in 1978 (enforced in 1979). Learning about this law in a history class previously, I never considered it in a marketing aspect. These individuals have grown up as single children and may have a sense of entitlement. They are well educated as the US media is always reporting on their countries’ amazing international grade reports. So, this group of â€Å"Little Emperors† are more aware of western culture than generations previous and Starbucks had to of discovered that they could give these people a taste of the western world. Lastly, Starbucks had to consider China’s tea consumption before expanding. While the US likes their coffee, China prefers tea in their social events. How could Starbucks take their signature product of coffee and still be successful? They had to sell the coffee house experience and that’s exactly what they did. 2. Discuss the key political and legal factors Starbucks had to consider in the Chinese marketplace. What are the risks of entering a country with these factors? What changes have occurred in China’s polit- ical and legal structure to the advantage of foreign companies? The standout political/legal factor for Starbucks expanding into China is Communism. Starbucks company originated in a democratic capitalistic country where it became successful. Expanding into China requires a lot of research into not just foreign laws but a very strict and controlling government that frowns on western practices. In 1999 when Starbucks began its expansion they did it with joint ventures meaning they licensed the right for Chinese citizens to sell Starbucks coffee and use their logo. Joint ventures and dictatorship are risky ideas and Starbucks could have easily failed. They made their risk minimal by only receiving royalty fees for the license to use their logo. China became a member of the World Trade Organization in 2001 thus opening the ability for American companies to freely participate in their market. Starbucks took this opportunity buy out is partners and take control over the 60 stores in existence in 2006. From 1999-2006, Starbucks had plenty of time to learn about Chinese culture and educate themselves in Chinese business that allowed them to feel confident about expanding in the future. 3. What demographic factors were important for Starbucks to understand in China? What were the demographics they decided to target? As I stated in my answer to question one, Starbucks had to understand their own target demographic in the successful US market and see if they could replicate that in China. Luckily for them it did. Political factors like the â€Å"One Child Law† gave way to a culture shift among previous generations that allowed for the 20-40 year old demographic to thrive. These citizens are independent, educated, and desire to socialize amongst their peers with no where to feel at home in. Starbucks, by â€Å"tweeking† their menu slightly and adding more dining space than other shops in other countries, adapted to these Chuppy† demands and found success. 4. What was the initial global-market strategy Starbucks employed to enter China? Discuss the advantages and disadvantages to this early strategy. How has their strategy changed since then and why? Initially Starbucks implemented a joint venture strategy. Meaning, they licensed their company for use in China believing that Chinese business individuals could have a better chance at success than they could. They also took that opportunity to learn and educate themselves about Chinese culture and business all the while receiving royalties for the licenses. This was a minimal risk for them as China was not a country that allowed a global market place to exist until its membership in the WTO in 2001. Their membership created an opportunity for Starbucks to take control of its licenses and eventually to expand further into the country.

In-Depth Summary of Expectancy Theory Essay example -- BTEC Business M

In-Depth Summary of Expectancy Theory In today’s organization, there is a need for ways in which to effectively motivate employees. Expectancy theory addresses the underlying issues that are associated with the belief that a performance or outcome is attainable. Developed initially by Edward Tolman and Kurt Levin, introduction of the theory into the workplace was not achieved until quite some time later by Victor Vroom (Bradt, 1996). It is his first utilization of the theory that enabled others to develop and recognize the potential the theory played in motivating individuals. This essay will address not only the fundamental mechanics behind expectancy theory, but also how it can be correlated with education, performance appraisals, and leadership roles in the workplace. When an individual is confronted with a task within the workplace they first assess if the effort that is required will produce a successful performance. Underlying issues such as self-esteem, educational background, and duration of the task all can aid in the individual's perception of probability in achievement. If an individual's perception of the task has a high probability of success, then motivation will ensue. Subsequently, if the individual feels there is little chance, then a lack of motivation occurs. From there the individual will attempt to analyze the probability that if this task is achieved, the desired outcome or reward will be acceptable and bestowed. This analysis of probability is labeled performance-to-outcome expectancy (Moorhead & Griffin, 2001). Desired outcomes vary depending on the individual’s needs, wants, and expectations. It is with this knowledge of diverse needs that the manager is able to realize the potential differences in how to best satisf y the employee’s outcome perception. This assessment of importance of the outcome to the individual is its valence. Having discussed the fundamentals involved with expectancy theory, we will know look more closely at how it can further be applied to motivation through education in the workplace. Studies have shown that there is a definite correlation between education and motivation amongst employees. When an individual assess their effort-to-performance probability, factors such as self-esteem and expectations can play a significant role. Lack of basic fundamental skills among individuals who have ... ...nd a feeling of insecurity there is now more then ever a reason for the organization to develop more effective ways to motivate employees. After analyzing just a few of the hybrids associated with expectancy theory, it is clear that employee perceptions and expectations play a vital role in the success and productivity of the organization. The ability of the manger not only to identify, but also to utilize, this information is essential in fostering an environment of willing and highly motivated employees. Through analyzing and offering education, relevant performance appraisals, and leadership an environment of motivation can be achieved. Works Cited: Bradt, J. (1996, March). Pay Employees for Their Contributions. Personnel Journal New Product News Supplement, 7-9. Clinton, M. (1998, Nov). Uncertain Effects: Can Basic Skills Education Improve Motivation. Technical Training, 9(6), 35-37. Isaac, R. & Zerbe, W. (2001, Summer). Leadership and Motivation: The Effective Application of Expectancy Theory. Journal of Managerial Issues, 13(2), 212. Moorhead, G. & Griffin, R. Organizational Behavior: Managing People and Organizations. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company, 2001.

Education and the Brain Essay

Given the emerging challenges surrounding the practice of education, many scholars and researchers are trying to establish a particular framework that is dedicated towards the enhancement of information and intensifying facilitation. With these processes, there is one important and vital determinant of this situation – the man’s brain. In the advent of new capabilities, focus is now related on discovering and creating opportunities that seeks to enhance the relationship between the brain and education. The article of Bruer offers a comprehensive insight about the strength and weaknesses of such field. Tracing from the past, he emphasized how the discipline has evolved from a mere scientific study to reaching out in the realm of child development and education. As individuals and groups try to unearth the processes involved, it branched out to several unique disciplines that correlate with the concept of education; namely cognitive psychology and neuroscience (Bruer, p. 3). Operating on this scheme, there are two ways in which this can be recognized namely (1) the period of synaptic elimination and (2) critical periods (Bruer, p. 3). In the first part, Bruer points out the relevance and relative link between neuroscience and education. In this process, he mentions that there are various brain activities that are stimulated by synapses that affect the way a child can cope with numerous functions that are expected for him/her to perform in a classroom setup (Bruer, p. 4). At the same time, the document made mention the importance of the experiment concerning critical periods. With numerous ways for this case to be applied, researchers have focused on the idea that these actions are vital in the early advancement of an individual. Bruer argues that â€Å"cultural variations in child rearing suggest that there are many equally successful way to provide the normal environment needed for brain development† (p. 5). The next section caters in looking into environments that are vital for a child’s advancement during the early stages of his/her life. It fosters the claim that stimulating and active surrounding does contribute to the overall capability of an individual to function accordingly with the desired objectives and goals of an institution. However, there is a lapse in neuroscience as it fails to include and elaborate on how such process can be vital in the overall goal of education and growth (Bruer, p. 7). This remains to be the missing link in trying to determine that guidance of the brain functions in classroom instruction and learning. On the other hand, Bruer cites the capability of creating a bridge that will enable the brain to relate its functions towards cognitive functions. In this process, there are two ways that such idea can be recognized. Bruer mentions that â€Å"the first connects educational practice with cognitive psychology, and the second connects cognitive psychology with brain science† (p. 7). In here he cites numerous advancements in technology and equipments available nowadays to help study and examine the progression of mental activity happening in an individual. Similarly, using the mind-brain interface, many researchers and scientists are able to conduct tests that can determine which part/areas are vital in particular function that are used and applied in the educational sector (Bruer, p. 8). In the last part, it seeks to elaborate these bridges by pointing out two viable approaches in dealing with it; namely (1) instruction to cognition and (2) cognition to neural activity. The first part looks into the way cognition has been used by educators and scientists to determine appropriate ways to enhance neural activities. At the same time, it focused on several studies and findings that try to relate these instances. In the second part, Bruer points out the use of â€Å"cognitive models and brain recording techniques to trace the neural circuitry involved in a skill like numerical comparison† (Bruer, p. 10). It is in here that they were able to find the connection between the two. In the end, the article argues that the brain can greatly affect the way individuals respond to the education. Therefore, future studies must guide researchers in addressing the loopholes in the current literatures. As the demands for educational policy continues to increase significantly in the practice, a good basis for such study can be made by relating to one important factor that shapes learning and development – the brain. It is in here that we can find appropriate strategies to increase competency and skill acquisition needed to make students dynamic and vibrant in practice. Work Cited Bruer, John T. Education and the Brain: A Bridge too Far in ‘Educational Researcher’ 26 no. 8 1997. accessed 12 November 2008. 4-16.