Hopi Education Theories and Practices

Pedagogical Theories Identified in Hopi Life The early education of Hopi culture was to encourage a worldview integrity without which knowledge could indeed become dangerous and dreadful. The educational theories which can be identified in Hopi life include behavioral learning, cognitive learning, and social learning theories. Each theory enabled the youth to learn more about the world and concepts typical of their own culture and related issues. Experience was an integral apet of the Hopi culture as young people learnt different concepts as soon as they encountered those.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Hopi Education Theories and Practices specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Theories: Behavioral Learning Theory This theory has its focus on stimuli and responses that can be readily observed. This process was used by older individuals within the surroundings of children, so that as soon as Hopi children reached matu rity kinship reactions were embedded in their thinking, feeling and everyday life and were part of him just as sleeping and eating. The Hopi were not merely informed that rules of behavior were wise but rather they lived with them as they grew up and became a part of their environment which is very different from the American separation of teaching at home at school and during Sunday school. â€Å"But I am still a child. A lost child. I cannot find my way. Where is the pathway of peace? Where can I find the harmony of the true Hopi?† (Qoyawayma 3). Theories: Cognitive Learning Theory The process of acquisition is combined with remembering facts and related information, and application of this information in practice is usually referred to as a cognitive learning theory. What is learned and internalized in infancy and early childhood can resist any contact situations. The Young Hopi children are taught cultural values through the use of stories. One of the first stories which were told to Hopi youth by their elders was that of the blue corn or sakwapqa’à ¶. The most important aspect to consider in the traditional education system of the Hopi people is the emotional commitment involved in this particular type of process which enabled them to resist cultural change (Eggan 1956: 347). This theory was used for teaching young people of the Hopi society to cognate the world. From birth, the young of the household were attended to and disciplined mildly for the first several years by their relatives in addition to their mother and visitors whom were in the home (Egan 1956: 349). Theories: Social Learning Theory Social context presupposes acquisition and application of knowledge. The Hopi people received education from their families where adult members had the responsibility of educating young. Stories which were told in Hopi culture pointed to improper behavior as the source of crop failure or sickness.Advertising Looking for essay on education? L et's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This effects were clearly seen and understood by all the children of the village. It was the belief of Hopi people that each person in the group is responsible for what happens to all. If one child disobeys and does something bad, every child of the clan may receive a punishment (Eggan 356) Cultural Values or Ideas Being Supported Clan Identity In addition to extended families, Hopi people belonged to one tribe in which they were born. A Hopi was a child of his father’s clan and this group took a lively interest in him (Eggan 354). Identity is an important part of Hopi culture, especially with regard to clan membership. The relationships similar to the ones between family members are binding forces for the members of the clan which is also the center of the tribe. The clans hold the Hopi villages together and provides a singular Hopi identity (Ancestral.com). Women are treated differently than in western countries because children become the members of a wife’s rather than a husband’s clan. Children are named by the women who belong to the father’s clan (Apache tracker.com) â€Å"A baby never depended on only his physical mother. â€Å"Many arms gave him comfort† (Eggan 353) Wisdom Hopi wisdom encourages a hopi to speak truth and warns them against looking outside themselves for a leader as they all have leadership qualities within them. The Hopi people are encouraged to be courageous. As reported by Eloise, Hopi elders consider the counsciousness of an individual as something that is not posessesd by this person until he/she comprehends and acknowledges spiritual responsibility. Corn Relationships and Human Being Corn has a great significance among the Hopi people because it sustains them both physically and spiritually given that they lived in an area where food was often scarce. Corn was a great source of nutrition with all important minera ls and elements and was available when other products were scarce. Members of the Hopi society learned to make other products like piki and cake-like food using corn. People of hopi tribes believed that corn was given to them by deity of flora and spirits of different natural phenomena (Ancestral.com). Corn plays a major role in the everyday life of the Hopi as well as in ceremonial life. According to the tradition related to corn, a nice-shaped ear of corn was placed into a medicinal bowl located on the alter for ceremonial purposes; preceding this, this ear was decorated with jewels and feathers. The ritual included purification of people who took part in the ceremony by sprinkling them and ceremony-related objects with meals made of corn. Additionally, to prevent enemies and undesirable guests from enetering the territory of the tribe, corn could be placed across the road (Ancestral.com). The Hopi people believed that corn was an indication that life is a planting, a growing, and harvesting and that prayers are physical things when appropriately conceived capable of coming to plentiful fulfillment and seedtime (Qoyawayma 8).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Hopi Education Theories and Practices specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Child Naming Names are important among the Hopi people as they help in identification of the members of this tribe. During the birth of a Hopi baby, the Hopi culture provides that the infant and the mother should be isolated inside a dark house for a period of 20 days. The mother is required to place two ears of corn next to the cradle and remain close to the infant until the day of the naming ceremony takes. The paternal grandmother was required by the Hopi culture to give a blessing to the child before the other family members on the morning of the child naming ceremony. The blessing was given using sacred ears. The child was given a hand made quilt by the grandm other before the other members are allowed to offer the baby their quilts. In case of a large family, the baby could end up with several names and quilts. The parents of the new born child then make a selection of the name to be used from among the suggested names. After becoming a member of another religious society such as the Kachina society, the Hopi people made provisions to change the names of newly-initiated people (Ancestral.com). Responsibilities in Hopi Clan Men and women had in Hopi society were assigned different responsibilities. Hopi men were expected to hunt deers in order to obtain meat as well as hides and bones for clothing and tools. Women in this society baked cornbread and gathered fruit and herbs. Most of the agricultural field work with the exception of corn planting which is a community event in which both men and women participate was carried out by men. In contrast to other societies, the arts of weaving and leatherwork were not only done by women, but men as well. Religion: Kachina Dolls Education of children was performed by parents who used Kachina dolls to explain diffent concepts of life. The Kachina dolls enabled the children in Hopi society to understand the importance of Kachinas in tribal ceremonies (SR Publications 2008: n.p.). Good Heartedness The Hopi believe that the dark-hearted people will be eliminated and the good hearted ones walking with the One will continue this world. The religion teaches that all distress from crop failure to illnesses is as a result of bad hearts. A good heart is a positive thing which should never go out of a Hopi’s mind (Eggan 1956: 360) only those people who have good hearts are effective in prayer resulting in constant probing of the heart. Oh, for a heart as pure as pollen on corn blossom, and for life as sweet as honey gathered from the flowers† (Qoyawayma 5)Advertising Looking for essay on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Art as a Medium of Instruction The Hopi have expressed their artistic skills in form of jewelry, pottery, painting, textiles, and basket making. The Hopi people were able to communicate their dreams, visions, and beliefs through their artistic skills. The artistic skills on pots told a stories which taught the young members of the society (Faulstich 2008: n.p.). Works Cited Ancestral.com. Information on Hopi Culture. Web. Apache Tracker. Hopi Culture. February 23, 2011. Accessed http://apachetracker.blogspot.com/ Eggan, Dorothy. Instruction and affect in Hopi cultural continuity. Southwestern Journal of Anthropology 12 (4)(1956): 347-370. Eloise, Hart. Wisdom teachings of the Hopi. Sunrise Magazine, October/November 1990. Faulstich, Paul. Ethnocology. Environmental Studies,148, 2008. Web. Hopi-Songs of the Forth World [Film]. 58 min. Dir. Ferrero Pat. Distributed by New Day Films. Qoyawayma, Polingaysi. No turning back: A Hopi woman’s struggle to live in two worlds Squidoo.co m. Quilting and the Hopi. February 23, 2011. Accessed https://hubpages.com/art/Hopi-Quilting SR Publications. Hopi: Songs of the Forthworld. 2008. Web. This essay on Hopi Education Theories and Practices was written and submitted by user Hugh Kennedy to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Support for carers of people with schizophrenia The WritePass Journal

Support for carers of people with schizophrenia Introduction: Support for carers of people with schizophrenia Introduction:Definition of carers:  Brief understanding of schizophrenia:Summary  CONCLUSIONRelated Introduction: This literature review will be based on finding evidence for the support received by carers of people with schizophrenia, the focus of this document will be specific to 24 year old male diagnosed with schizophrenia and living at home with parents. For confidentiality purposes, patient will tae on assumed name of Alex. Alex is 24 years of age and was diagnosed with schizophrenia at the age of 19 whilst in university. He had admitted to use of illicit drugs (crack cocaine and cannabis) he ha also stated that he at times was able to consume a bottle of voda in one night. On admission, Alex was presenting with delusional thoughts of persecution, paranoia and thought disorders. Alex is being discharged from hospital and is going back home to stay with parents who will be his main carers. Corcerns raised were, what support they will receive in the community from health practitioners with regards to coping psychologically, physically, socially and economically Definition of carers: Carers can be defined as family members, partners or friends who provide unpaid support to people who experience illness, disability or frailty(Hancock and Jarvis 1994).Although Stalker (2003) makes a distinction between informal helpers and those who take on major responsibilities, Rethink (2006) proposes that all people providing substantive care should be defined as carers. In the UK, half a million people care for people with severe mental illnesses (Princess Royal Trust for Carers 2002) with 40 per cent living with those for whom they care (Rethink 2006). Carers UK (2008) estimates that carers save the economy  £87 billion a year. Of people with schizophrenia, 60 per cent live with significant others (Hughes et al 1996) and the same proportion return home to their families after their first admissions (MacMillan et al 1986).Many carers describe their role as a burden. Caring can disrupt their lives, restrict the activities in which they can take part, bring financial hardship, and reduce their time and energy to take part in paid work (Ferriter and Huband 2003, Oyebode 2003).Meanwhile, by focusing on the mental illnesses of the people they care for, carers can neglect their own social support networks, leaving them isolated (Rose et al 2002).   Brief understanding of schizophrenia: Schizophrenia is a mental illness that affects about one in a hundred people at some point in life. The first acute episode where symptoms of schizophrenia are experienced can be a devastating experience, particularly as both the person experiencing the illness and their family and friends will be unprepared. The highest incidence of first experience of an episode is in the late teens and early 20s, which is a time of change anyway, making it difficult to understand what is happening to a relative or friend who is developing schizophrenia.(Rethink 2011) Research The search for research articles were focused on carers, schizophrenia, carers support and nurses support for carers and patients. National and international research surrounding this topic were sought, the search was narrowed down to between 1999 and 2011. Electronic databases and interenet sources such as google academia were searched as well as websites of ey organnisations such as Mind, Rethink, NHS choices, Sainsburys Centre for Mental Health. Other searches were carried out at the university library and its digital library such as CINHAL, psychINFO and British nursing index. Researh article on this topic were a total of 1435 hits, this was narrowd down to   specific search and this generated 213 hits. 10 researh article were chosen read, evaluated and out of that six research article were determined and selected to be relevant and signnficant contribution for this literature review. Research articles used in this essay are qualitative and quantitative. 4 are qualitative and 2 quantitative. In all six article nurses were chosen at random to help in the support of carers. In all research articles, in depth interviews were conducted to collect data, these were recorded on audio tapes and in field notes. Interviews were focussed on the views of carers concerning nurses, and nurses concerning carers. Summary The research   article reviews the findings of a study of the views of 13 carers of people self-identified as having schizophrenia on the nature and extent of their role, and its effect on their lives and identities. According to these findings,carers experience stress and illness, and thinkthat the support they receive from professionals is inadequate. As a result, they think that help and psychotherapeutic interventions, such as family therapy, should be more accessible. The purpose of the research articles were to identify the support needed by carers of people with schizophrenia. On reading the research articles, it was noted that Mental Health nurses and carers were used as samples in the reseach work. RESEARCH 1 Registered Mental Health Nurses aged between22 years and 51 years with clinical experience ranging from1 to 14 years. The sample consists 10 nurses, nine being female and one male. Three were charge nurses and six staff nurses. One nurse moved on to a managerial post leaving nine nurses in the research. They were assigned a client each with the carer   of that particular client. Nine carers received support. Community based psychiatric nurse in Taiwan gathered data on the coping experiences of carers living with and taking care of someone who has a family member with schizophrenia were compiled. The   carers selected needed to be the major caregivers and the patient must have had clinically diagnosed schizophrenia for at least one year and carers had to have been living with the patient for at least one year since the onset of the illness. The sample size comprised 10 carers (five men and five women). All of the carers were contacted by their community home care nurses first to gain consent to participate in this study. The other four remaining research articles used a sample of nurses and carers which comprised in the range of 10- 30. Findings; In the research articles two types of burdens were broadly discussed, these being objective and subjective burdens. Many carers describe their role as a burden.Of people with schizophrenia, 60 percent live with their significant others (hughes et al 1996) and the same proportion return hometo their families after their first admissions(MacMillan et al 1986). Van Wijngaarden et al (2000) state that ,these burdens are described as ‘objective’ burdens because their effects can be measured by others. However, many carers experience ‘subjective’ burdens, which can be measured only by the carers themselves. These subjective burdens can include depression, feelings of anxiety, and a sense of loss, particularly in those for whom family life has become chaotic and disorderly (Karp and Tanarugsachock 2000). Those who have become isolated often feel vulnerable (Rose et al 2002) and, in 625,000 carers in the UK, the stress of caring has even led to mental or physical illnesses (Carers UK 2008).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Carers’ main objective burden concerns lack of employment and finance (Magliano et al 2005, Sreeja et al 2009) and the main form of practical help carers need is more responsive and user-friendly support services. Carers’ subjective burdens include feelings of chronic stress, isolation, despair, fear and exhaustion(Ward-Griffin and McKeever 2000), and healthcare professionals can respond to these by offering carers more psychotherapeutic interventions, including family therapy, to help them cope and to reduce disruption in the home. Carers have an enormous amount of responsibilit for the welfare and managementof people with a mental illnessin Britain (Cuijpers, 1999). This is recognized in recent Government policies that stipulate the support required to enable carers to continue caring (Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN), 1998; Department of Health (DOH,2000). Further findings were the perception of health professional about carers and vice versa were varied in the research artilcle . These are in bullet points below. Their view of carers and health and social care professional were at odds with each. Below in bullet points were some of the thoughts expressed: Carers are of the view that Health care professionals must engage with carers rather than criticise them for notconforming to professional assumptions. The study also shows that the burden of care is rarely taken up fairly. Most major responsibilitiesare usually taken on by one person, and the chancesthat this person is male or female are fairly even. However, the burden of care can be greater forwomen, who are often assumed to be the maincarers for all of their family members, not only for the people with schizophrenia. Healthcare professionals, more specifically mental health nurses, need to   understand that their views and perceptions of mental illness, the appropriate care for people with mental health problems, and those of the carers, differ. They should also understand that, to support carers appropriately, they must provide practical help: for example, more support for carers of mental health patients. In the literature, moreover, health and socialcare professionals characterise the role ofcarers as ‘overprotective’ (Croydon-Smith 1982,Haddock et al 2003). With half a million people in the UK caring for peoplewith severe mental illnesses, (Princess Royal Trustfor Carers 2002) this article research article also identified the findings of a study of the views of 13 carers of peple clinically diagnosed as having schizophrenia on the nature and extent of their role, and its effect on their lives and identities. These views are in bullet points below According to these findings,carers experience stress and illness, and thinkthat the support they receive from professionals isinadequate. As a result, they think that help and psychotherapeutic interventions, such as family therapy, should be more accessible. Participants also thought that their perceptionsof schizophrenia and of those who have thecondition differ from those of health and social care professionals, and that this difference addedto their burdens.   For instance, one participant said of what he and the healthcare professionals he encountered thought was best for his son: ‘As far as I was concerned, he needed to be in hospital, but they would not agree.’ Another participant made a related point about the care given to her daughter: ‘Sometimes,the hospital staff would give advice. They said,â€Å"involve her in your decisions†, but we thought thiswas a terrible idea. She could not think properly.She was unable to.’ One carer was angry at healthcare professionalsbecause they appeared to override his concernsabout his wife, saying: ‘The psychiatrist said to mywife, â€Å"Do you want to come in to the hospital?† and she said â€Å"No†. I was amazed because the doctor agreed with her. I told them about her behaviourin the house but it was not my decision. It was her decision.’ Some participants’ relationships with healthcareprofessionals were unsatisfactory for practical reasons. For example, one said of his wife: ‘It was unfair to leave her to me. These nurses start their shifts, do eight hours and then go home. I had it 24 hours a day.’ Another said, also of his wife: ‘I tried so hard to care for her, but the community psychiatric nurse did nothing to help.’ Other staff also came in for criticism, with oneparticipant commenting on healthcare professionals’ lack of understanding and availability in caring for her son: ‘He would go berserk and, I called the doctor and the social worker. But they came and said he did not need sectioning.’ Those who have become isolated often feelvulnerable (Rose et al 2002) and, in 625,000 carersin the UK, the stress of caring has even led to mental or physical illnesses (Carers UK 2008). Findings:Who becomes the carer? Typically, one person in each family had become the main carer,which means that the burdens of caring were not shared equally. Nearly half of the participants inthe study were male carers, although some of thesereported that extra burdens of caring had been placed on their daughters.One male carer said of his daughter, who had taken on some of the routine caring role: ‘I felt bad enough that my oldest girl was doing all the work around the house. There was time for all this when she was a married woman.’ Another male carer said of his eldest daughter:‘She looked after the youngest when her motherwas sick. She seemed to know her mother was mentally ill. She had to grow up quick to do thingsround the house.’ The objective burden Generally, carers tended toidentify the burden of caring in practical terms,citing the need to undertake tasks such as cooking,cleaning, housework and shopping, and of ensuring that the people they cared for were not left alone. gets one a day. For some participants, providing practical carewas a major challenge. ‘He has become extremely difficult to control. More than difficult. It is worse now.Over a period of time, he has got worse. He actuallyattacked his dad. There was a widely held belief among participantsthat the people they care for are unable to cope withtheir illnesses, and have become irrational. One said,for example: ‘I was worried about leaving her alone in case she got it all wrong and did something stupid.Some days she cannot take care of herself.’ Another reported: ‘I had to take care of her andprotect her. She could not cope. I could not leave heralone, she was too sick.’There was a perception among participants thatthe people they care for are in a position analogousto that of children. my wife and I could not leave her. It was like she wasa child again.’ A participant whose family had become carerssaid: ‘We could not leave her alone because she mightdo something. She is ill. We cared about her.’ And a carer said of her son: ‘I think I must takecare of him. It is like the umbilical cord is still there.’ The subjective burden Participants also mentionedthe subjective burden of caring. All of them saidthat they had experienced anxiety, some saidthey felt depressed and others that they feltconstantly sad. Most of them also felt angry,although a few had become resignedtotheir situations. Most paticipants also reported physicalproblems such as headaches, stomach pains orconstant tiredness, often caused by insomnia. One participant’s comment that she felt ‘tired,drained and worn out’ was typical. Some participants said that the people they caredfor had changed so much because of their illnessthat they had become unrecognisable, and that thesechanges added to the burden of caring.One participant said of her son: ‘He is not my sonany more. He is just some creature, some monster. I told the social worker, â€Å"I am tired, I cannot have my son living with me much longer†. I have forgottenwhat it means to have a normal life. I have taken tolocking my bedroom door when my husband is away. I am afraid of my son.’The realisation among participants that the hopes they had once invested in the people they care forwould not now be fulfilled was a further cause ofdistress. Views of health and social care professionals. Over the last 20 years, a number of initiativesaimed at supporting carers of people with mental illness have been developed,many of them involving nurses (Leff andVaughn, 1985; Hatfield, 1990; Falloon et al, 1993; Atkinson and Coia, 1995).   The number of sessions delivered by the nurses ranged between 1 and 12 and the duration varied between 45 minutesand 2 hours. Eight carers requested homevisits, and one nurse met the carer in a private room withinthe hospital. The number of sessions varied in response to carers’ needs. Some had few support needs but still found it helpful to talk about carer related issues. Carers reportingmore complex needs required more intensive support.   CONCLUSION Training nurses to support carers of peoplediagnosed with schizophrenia appears to have been overlooked in some psychosocial intervention programmes. The research articles outline how a training programmefor nurses, based on the work of Nolan et al (1999), and building on training developed by Atkinson and Coia (1995), was developed. This has helped formulate a needs-led support service for carers whose relatives arc diagnosed with schizophrenia.The key components of the support arc thoroughneeds assessment and meetingneeds through agreement and careful planningwith carers.Nurses should work in partnership withcarers in order to achieve these aims, and this is dependent on mutual respect of eachothers status and expertise. The present study will allow evaluation onhow far the training programme enables nursesto meet carers needs, and how confident the nurses are in offering support to carers.Carers views are important concerning theappropriateness of the support programmein meeting their needs. Following this study,training and intervention will be refined. As such, it represents the first phase of aresearch programme investigating rhe trainingneeds of nurses and the usefulness of support for carers. Current United Kingdom (UK) health and social care policiesplace the needs of carers to the fore on the service provision agenda (Hancock Jarvis 1994, Department of Health[DoH] 1999a, 1999b). Commitment towards care in thecommunity explicitly relies and builds on the family system toprovide unpaid support to clients (James 1992, Nolan et al. 1999, Hirst Arksey 2000, Nolan 2001). Evidence,however, consistently indicates that carers’ needs for support remain largely ignored by health professionals (James 1992,Twigg Atkin 1994, Atkinson Coia 1995, Henwood1998, Rose 1998, Warner Wexler 1998, Hatfield 2000, Nolan 2001). Further, the most effective ways of meetingcarers’ needs remain unclear (Nolan et al. 1995, Rose 1998,Clinical Standards Board for Scotland [CSBS] 2001). If professional support offered to carers is to improve then health service professionals, including nurses, need to develop their understanding of carers’ needs and develop interventions to meet these needs (Atkinson Coia 1995, Casey1995, Nolan et al. 1995, Kellett Mannion 1999, Hatfield 2000, Magorrian 2001). Background The research studies focus on the primary carer: i.e. a family ornonfamily member who provides care or support to someonediagnosed with schizophrenia and is living in the community. Evidence indicates that caring for a relative diagnosed with schizophrenia can be stressful and may result in increasedburden (Cuijpers 1999). The UK National Strategy for Carersrecognizes this and introduced measures to support carers(DoH 1999b). The National Framework for Mental HealthEngland (DoH 1999a) places high priority on carers. Arisingfrom this, clinical standards were set for the professionalsupport of carers of people diagnosed with schizophrenia within Scotland (CSBS 2001).There is a lack of robust evidence on the most effectivemeans of providing support to these carers (DoH 1999a, CSBS 2001, CSBS 2002). As a result, the clinical standardsfail to indicate how carer support should be achieved. Keyfindings from a national review of clinical standards forschizophrenia (Scotland) (CSBS 2002), found that while someinnovative practices existed a comprehensive range of serviceswas lacking. A review of support interventions for carers of people diagnosed with schizophrenia indicates that mostprofessional support has an educational focus (Mari Streiner 1994). However, carers also want emotional andpractical support (CSBS 2002). Not surprisingly, many carersreport that their needs are ignored or given low priority(Nolan et al. 1994, Twigg Atkin 1994, Wray 1994, Atkinson Coia 1995, Chambers et al. 2001). Spaniol(1987) and Milleken (2001) suggest that professionals are often unaware of carer needs and level of service dissatisfaction.Nolan and Grant (1989) highlight that this may lead toirrelevant support and Walker and Dewer (2001) indicatethat this may result in misunderstandings that can increase carer stress and dissatisfaction and inhibit them from seeking further help Complex needs arose from the carers mental health or family problems, social isolation, the client’s mental health problems or admission to hospital. Carers experienced no difficulties arranging sessions with a nurse. Nurses accounts of practice working collaboratively with carers Prior to training, nurses described their contact with carers as largely occurring during crisis or when carers required specificinformation about the client. Nurses described the nature of this contact as informal, ad hoc and unstructured, with no guarantee that carers received the input that they needed. None of the nurses had prior training in carer support and reported that their basic training had not preparedthem to work with carers. A key practice outcome was that nurses work collaboratively with carers. To achieve this nurses had to: listen to andacknowledge the carers’ perspective; remove barriers preventing carers from openly communicating with them; acknowledge the expertise of the carer and adopt an expert to expert approach in their interactions with the carer. Following training, most nurses found working collaboratively with carers to be one of the easiest aspects of their practice. Before I used to think I was the expert. I was there to give information. Now I am more prepared to listen to what carers have to say. I learned a lot from (carer). I really did, about the illness. It is not that I didn’t know about it but I learned what it is like, I suppose, for somebody caring 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The purpose of the study was to understand the coping experiences of carers living with a family member with schizophrenia by describing their experiences through a qualitative phenomenological approach. Our research may be a valuable reference for mental health professionals seeking to improve the quality of care for people with schizophrenia and their carers.

Public School Education and Globalization Annotated Bibliography

Public School Education and Globalization - Annotated Bibliography Example ASI. (2003). Democracy and Education. Washington D.C: Albert Shanker Instutute. According to the author, a majority of schools leaders have in recent past shown concern that in the communities, many educators, those in business leadership and a number of parents of students are getting concerned that many high school graduates are increasingly falling below the par as far as responding to the needs of employers in the job market is concerned. Moreover, governmental schooling reforms are today largely fashioned towards gratifying the needs of the marketplace. Dewey, J. (2009). Democracy and Education. Berlin: GRIN Verlag. Many graduates are not so clearly succeeding between the classroom lessons and the careers they need to pursue as an interest area in their careers. In this regard many schools across the United States are now training teachers and principals to be more concerned in counseling and teaching students to a more career oriented approach.. This entails dedicating themselves to introducing avenues and opportunities that respond to contextual learning and seeking to ensure that appropriate ways that ensure that things change are adopted. Dicken, P. (2007). Global Shift: Mapping the Changing Contours of the World Economy. London: Sage Publications. According to P. Dickens, education meets two basic levels: equality and then the social issues and skills demanded by employers. Accordingly, the concept of democratic level-headedness suggests the call for a system of education that facilitates socio-economic progress and the appreciation of a culture of economic relevance, who can then meaningfully take part in communities and groups aligned on democratic ideals in an impartially and objectively informed approach. Arguably is the fact that National Governments across the world continue to hub on equality in the accessibility to education and other social institutions that promote sustainable development. Noteworthy also is the fact that the central goal and purpose accruing from the foregoing discussion would be accordingly, the creation of fruitful citizens/ graduates, and not necessarily resourceful personnel. Indeed, the aim is for the citizens to be able to maximize personal accomplishment, that is to say governments are now mo re focused in development of education curriculum that is more focused on promoting ‘socially and economically cohesive democratic communities’ that respond to the globally defined economic demands. Fazal et al (2005). Globalization and Recent Shifts in Educational Policy in the Asia Pacific. New Delhi: UNESCO. Fazal et al note that, educational policies have been affected. The authors imagine that various governments and their agencies, under the conditions of globalization, have been changing a number of things. This include, not only the rationale for education but also getting actively involved in reconstructing the syllabi and approaches of teaching by also being cognizant of factors such as technology having been laid by use of the internet and other technological advancement associated with the world today. Largely, all this take into account the ever-changing aspects of international trade. Hudis, P (2001). Making Education Career Focused. Berkeley. US Departmen t of Education. http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:NJPGGdzftcwJ:www.mathematica-mpr.com/PDFs/makingschools.pdf+Should+public+school+education+be+overhauled+to+teach+trade+skills+to+most+students+based+on+aptitude+tests+and+life+interests+as+opposed+to+preparing+every+student+for+college?&hl=en&gl=ke. This article talks about career oriented approach in education. It is common knowledge that many leaders in the education in the United States and elsewhere in the world are of the opinion that it is important to review school curriculum with a view to prepare students for further education and successful careers, Even more importantly is

Business Writing Portfolio Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Business Writing Portfolio - Essay Example The above is, owing mostly to rising gas prices. The Gas prices are unlikely to go down in the near future. Instead, a further rise is expected in the next few months. In order to address the above problem, we feel a need for you to make certain adjustments in your day to day operations. The adjustments are expected to be such that the employees working in the various shifts are allowed to exercise the choice to work lesser hours a day or per week. You may explore the possibilities for the same keeping into account the number of duty roaster change requests you have received in the past few months. We are gladly willing to extend any kind of support and guidance in the matter. Although you are well aware, it is important to point out at this juncture that no new stores are being opened and no stores are being closed down. Thus, the level of competition is expected to remain same. Further, we invite your suggestions on how to address the problem better. You may mail your suggestions a s soon as possible through email or phone on any of the workdays, between 10am through 5pm. Thank you. Warmest regards, XYZ.. Manager Public relations, ABC retail group Message2: Store Employees: A business memo MEMO   To: (Employee Name)   From: (Your name)   Date: (current date)   Subject: Changes in work schedule This is to bring to your notice a change in work schedule that is being planned in next few days. The purpose of this memo is to inform you about the reasons and ways to do so. As you must be aware, owing to rising gas prices, we are experiencing a fall in profits. Besides, you as an employee also must be feeling the strain on your finances due to the same. We have decided to make it less so by allowing you to modify your work schedule and suggest the same to those responsible in your respective sections/departments for planning your duties. The objective is to allow you easy sanction of leaves and also flexible working hours, so that occasional overstaffing can be effectively managed. Full time employees will be allowed to exchange their working hours with any willing full time or part time employees, such that it does not violate the stipulated total number of working hours. This will help consolidate working hours and will require less time and cost in transportation to and from your home to work. To start with you shall work on †¦.(days) for †¦..hours with flexibility to exchange these hours with willing partners with written permission from your section head. The store shall open on Sundays and you are required to work at least four hours this Sunday. You may compensate this with a leave on any other weekday. Message 3: Retail customers: An email message Dear Customer, We are thankful to you for your continued support and loyalty to our retail brand. As part of our constant endeavor to bring the best to our customers, we have planned certain new initiatives that we shall unfold in the coming weeks. Our stores shall be open mo re hours now, so that you may get more time to experience your favorite brand and buy your favorite products at the ongoing deals you always loved. We have introduced more self help counters at the stores, so that you may get relevant product information promptly and require minimal help from our very courteous

IFRS for Small & Medium Entities Literature review

IFRS for Small & Medium Entities - Literature review Example Primarily the objectives of IFRS for SMEs have been to support its accounting and financial reporting system as well as dramatically meet the basic financial requirements of these entities which does not have any public accountability and liability to publish financial statement for its external users (Laptes & Popa, 2009). Contextually, this paper critically evaluates the need of IFRS for SMEs and the challenges in adopting IFRS for SMEs. Aims Behind Applying IFRS For SMEs The primary aim of the IFRS for SMEs is to provide a standard for entities in nations that have no national GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles). IFRS for SMEs shall not facilitate in providing accounting framework in certain specific countries for entities that do not have necessary the resources to adopt full IFRS. Another important aim of the application of IFRS is to provide those nations which have already set-up their own national GAAP with IFRS standards, a framework that shall recognise and understand the needs of accounting framework across the territories. In general, the application of IFRS in SMEs aims at providing financial statements and other financial reporting of profit-oriented entities. Accordingly, it is aimed that with the application of IFRS in SMEs shall be directed towards satisfying the common information requirements of an array of users such as shareholders, employees, creditors, and the public at large as well as facilitating single financial st andard for the preparation of financial reporting across the territories (The International Accounting Standards Committee Foundation, 2009; Madawaki, 2012). In addition to above stated aims, there are certain specific aims that are often being considered while applying IFRS in SMEs. These supplementary aims include reduction of cost for SMEs for preparing financial statements, eliminating complexity and harmonizing financial reporting by SMEs particularly private entities operating across the globe (Aristidou, 2012). Thus, it can be argued that the aims and objectives behind the IFRS implementation in SMEs are indeed wholesome and appreciable both from economic as well as accounting perspectives. Benefits of IFRS for SMEs It has been argued that IFRS for SMEs are the self-contained set of principles that comprises the accounting standards based on the Full IFRS. Additionally, it has been admitted that SMEs applying IFRS will have the significant opportunity to prepare their financi al reporting statements using a set of reliable standards which is truly based on the global financial reporting language. This will further enable SMEs to expand themselves into a new global financial dimension (Samujh, 2007). Additionally, it will also pave the way for SMEs to expand globally and increase their capability to generate greater revenue. Precisely stating IFRS for SMEs are likely to provide following benefits: Understanding the Global Financial Reporting Language: SMEs in jurisdictions where IFRS were not being historically used by those SMEs who wish to apply IFRS will became familiar with the requirement of IFRS. Moreover, the application of IFRS by SMEs will facilitate in

The Present Environmental Ecological Crisis Theology Religion Essay

The Present Environmental Ecological Crisis Theology Religion Essay There is the worldwide recognition of the present environmental/ecological crisis and there is a central belief amongst the religions that nature was created by God and should be protected. As environmental degradation has occurred, we begin to ask ourselves about the relationship between human beings and nature. The focus on religion and the environment has grown in recent years. Researchers have looked specifically at the role of religion and ecology. Taylor defines the field of religion and ecology as one that focuses on: Identifying the obstacles that the worlds mainstream religions may pose to environmental sustainability, and secondly the resources such religions may have available for promoting environmentally beneficent behaviors, (992). There is the recognition that the Earth is in danger from human activity and use and changes need to be made in order to sustain life on the Earth (Taylor 998). Why is it important to use religion as a means for environmental action? Berry states that it is human carelessness and greed that caused the environmental problems that we are faced with today (30). With this in mind, we look to religion as this is what some individuals believe holds a large degree of responsibility for the start of our environmental problems. Lynn Whites 1967 essay, The Historical Roots of our Ecologic Crisis suggested a link between religion and the environment. White singled out Christian attitudes as a reason for the environmental crisis. He proposed that the attitudes of individuals who do not regard nature as a central importance need to be changed. The earth needs to be respected and used in a manner that will help to preserve it for future generations, rather than exploit it for the present. White suggested that it was when the Industrial Revolution began that the human concern for the environment was lost to a greater degree than had been seen in the past. White interpreted the Bible as presenting human dominance over nature, leading individuals to care about themselves and industrial progress rather than about environmental matters and the ultimate effects of their actions on the earth. Besides Whites interpretation, there are many other suggested explanations for how humans viewed the world, and their resulting actions. From the philosophy of Rene Descartes, the universe was seen as a machine. It was from this time that economic progress was a priority and the long-term effects from the development and use of nature was not regarded as an issue (Sevier, 41). This is a view similar to that held by White, in that human progress and development has led to the environmental effects. However, this view does not specifically mention the role of religion. Carters interpretation of this issue suggests that the ecological crisis is not a result of Judeo-Christian traditions, but rather stems from the interpretation of the Bible and giving human beings dominance over other life forms (animals, plants) (358). This led to the exploitation of natural resources and ultimately to where we are today with the issue. Regardless of how it initially happened, we have to face reality and realize that as a society we have caused considerable damage to our planet. The role of religion Anthropologists suggest that religion persists because it has value to us, and such value can be either intrinsic, instrumental, or a combination thereof, (Strada 59). Sevier writes that, Traditionally, religion used to play an integral role in linking people to the natural world, imbuing people with the knowledge and values that make caring for it a priority, (38). Six major religions Buddhism Christianity Hinduism Islam Judaism Indigenous Religious Buddhism There is a universality of suffering. Being aware of suffering and produces compassion. Though traditional Buddhism regarded human life over that of animals, there is presently the recognition that all life forms should be respected equally. As humans we got ourselves into this ecological/environmental crisis and we are the ones that need to get ourselves out. Source: Swearer Christianity There is often seen to be a failure on the part of Christians in how they had interpreted the Bible and used the resources that God made available to them. Lynn Whites 1967 essay is an example of this. However, this is not the belief of all individuals. There recently has been an increased awareness of the environment in the United States as churches are initiating responsibility towards environmental protection. Hinduism Hindu images relate to the powerful natural world. Ecological sensitivity is based on the relationship between humans and how they respect the gods and goddesses related to the earth. In South Asia, the effects of pollution, both in the air and water, have been felt, particularly in recent years. With the values that Hinduism has towards the environment, reflection is starting to occur on how individuals can best approach the ecological challenges that are occurring. Islam An environmental ethic is in the Quran, but leaves an opening for Muslims to incorporate creative and innovative solutions in the contemporary context. A green jihad has recently begun. This is a common term for the green movement that promotes environmental protection. Source: Denny Judaism Ecological issues were never a central focus of Judaism, but rather were dealt with as they came about. An environmental perspective suggests that a belief of Judaism is that we are only tenants on this earth. The earth must then be cared for as there are other inhabitants, both presently as well as in the future, that will be living here. Source: Fink Indigenous Religions For individuals following indigenous religions, there is an understanding of their place in the local environment. Native Americans have believed that there are spirits in nature and the environment needs to be taken care of. Grim writes that in indigenous beliefs, to analyze religion as a separate system of beliefs and ritual practices apart from subsistence, kinship, language, governance, and landscape is to misunderstand indigenous religion. The respect for nature and the environment is still present amongst the Indigenous peoples. What is evident, however, is wherever indigenous peoples have endured, they have maintained a loving experience of place and an understanding that spiritual forces capable of leading humans into both utilitarian and self-understandings abide in all of these places, (Grim). Source: Grim How do we create a solution? An environmental crisis is here. It is recognized throughout the world, and its presence is agreed upon by the major religions. But what is the next step? How do we go about creating a solution? Can there be a common ground for science and religion in that both work together towards a solution? Bouma-Prediger quotes Edward O. Wilson in saying that religion and science are the two most powerful forces in the world todayif religion and science could be united on the common ground of biological conservation, the problem [of biological catastrophe] would soon be solved (1392). Can religion and science work together? Hossein Nasr writes, The environmental crisis now encompasses the entire Earth, (3). He suggests that there is a crisis of values and that as humans, we have participated in creating the destruction of the environment. A need exists to develop a path across religious frontiers without destroying the significance of religion itself and to carry out a comparative study of the Earths of various religions as has been carried out for their Heavens, if these terms are understood in their traditional metaphysical and cosmological sense, (Hossein Nasr 3). We need to regain the loss of a moral and social awareness as ecology becomes more individualistic and systems based. Many researchers recognize that a global stance needs to be taken by religions, with them working together to create a more comprehensive worldview and ethics to assist in reversing this trend, (Tucker and Grim). This is along similar lines with what Hossein Nasr writes, that dialogue on the environment must take place between religions on a global scale. Tucker and Grim continue by writing that, This is critical because the attitudes and values that shape peoples concepts of nature come primarily from religious worldviews and ethical practices. The moral imperative and value systems of religions are indispensable in mobilizing the sensibilities of people toward preserving the environment for future generations. Religious factors and environmental behaviors and attitudes Sherkat and Ellison analyzed data from a 1993 General Social Survey to look at religious factors and environmental behaviors and attitudes. Their study revealed that contradictory findings on the connection between religion and environmental concern and activism are the result of varied influences of religious schemata and resource interactions on different indicators of environmental concern and activism, (83). Sherkat and Ellison were not able to conclude specific religious influences on the environment, but suggested that Whites 1967 essay had the possibility of being a primary influence for religious leaders to take a pro-environment stance and actions (83). Religion and the environment are intertwined in that they have had a history and will continue to have a role together in the future. This may be one area where science and religion can find a common ground both have the environment in their best interest and can work together to find a solution to the current environmental crisis. As religious traditions and beliefs have shaped human values and behaviors towards the environment in the past, this is one possibility for working toward positive environmental attitudes for the future.

Afghanistan: Americas Attempt to Abolish the Taliban Essay -- Govern

Afghanistan: America's Attempt to Abolish the Taliban In an age when mankind has the ability to completely annihilate itself through nuclear combat, war can be a more terrifying and powerful thought than ever before. Unfortunately, because of the extent of the actions that the Taliban has committed against both America and its own followers, the United States’ war against terrorism seems to be a necessity. I do feel, however, as if there are many things that can be done by the American government in the near future to peacefully approach a more civil and politically involved Afghanistan. Although my feelings on a war against terrorism are mixed, I do feel that significant actions must be taken in order to restrict the spread of the Taliban and rebuild the government of Afghanistan. It is hard to say exactly how I feel about the war that the United States is waging against the Taliban. I feel that war should always be a last resort when dealing with problems between countries, especially in today’s age. Because of remarkable technological advances over the past few dec...