I Turned over the Question Paper

I turned over the question paper, I flipped through all the pages. I did not know how to answer any of the questions. I racked my brain to recall what I had studied yesterday but I barely could remember anything. I viewed around the class and found all my classmates were poring over and solving the question papers intently. My bosom friend, Serene was sitting beside me at the corner of the class. I doubted I was the only one who was still musing. The exam started at 10 a. m. and now the wall clock above the whiteboard was showing 10. 30 a. m. Time really flew, but I still had not even written a single word on my question paper. I started to have butterflies in my stomach. ‘What can I do now? ’ I kept asking myself. My brilliant yet filthy mind suddenly thought of an idea. I occasionally threw surreptitious glances at Serene. When I noticed Miss Lim was busy marking the exam papers, I rapidly threw a folded memo I had written to Serene: ‘Serene, please pass me your paper for just a couple of minutes. ‘ I could sense that she hesitated for a split second, however, she still handed her question paper to me in a swift manner so that Miss Lim would not have realised what we were actually doing. Serene was like my angel, she had always been part and parcel of my life since we had first met in Form 1. With lightning speed, I copied the answers favourably but apprehensively. My jubilance came to an abrupt end when I heard a discreet cough from behind. It was Miss Lim! She speedily snatched the question papers from me and glanced at me with the eyes of a hawk. It was too late for me to react when Serene beckoned me as I was profoundly concentrating with what I was doing. Then her creepy eyes turned to Serene who was close to tears. Her tears had yet accumulated in her guilty eyes. Miss Lim was too dazed to even talk. I could sense that all eyes were looking at us at that moment. Regaining her composure, she asked all the students to continue with their exam and took us out of the class. Just then, she made a phone call to our well-known discipline teacher, Mr Lambert. Mr Lambert took us to his discipline room together with the question papers in his hand. He scrutinised the question papers attentively. We thought he would have scolded us as loud as thunder until the staffroom located a few miles away could hear us. Surprisingly, he did not. He looked at us with his smiley and warmth face. Tears welled up in our eyes and we tried to hold them back. However, we could not. They started flowing down our cheeks. He waited with the patience of a saint until we had finished and asked us if we wanted to tell him why and how everything had happened. We told him. I confessed that I was the one who insisted Serene to pass me her question paper. He gave us a lecture and warned us not to repeat the same thing in future if not we would be suspended from school. Each of us was given a warning letter and our parents were called to the school. We vowed to Mr Lambert that we would never cheat again during examinations. From that day onwards, we were renowned to be the best cheaters ever.

Hate Crimes: Matthew Shepard Essay

Wyoming, October 7th 1998. Aaron Kriefels is cycling in a remote rural area when he sees what at first he believes to be a scarecrow tied to a fence. He looks closer and sees not a scarecrow, but a young man badly beaten and close to death. The victims name was Matthew Shepard. On Dec. 1st 1976, Matthew Shepard was born in Casper, Wyoming. He attended elementary school in the states, but after his first year in high school his family moved to Saudi Arabia. He then attended the American School in Switzerland where he was elected as a peer mediator. His friends and peers felt comfortable talking to him and he was someone you came to when you needed advice. He was described by his father as â€Å"an optimistic and accepting young man who had a special gift of relating to almost everyone. He was the type of person who was very approachable and always looked to new challenges. Matthew had a great passion for equality and always stood up for the acceptance of people’s differences. â€Å"[1] In February 1995, during a high school trip to Morocco, Matthew was beaten, robbed, and raped, causing him to withdraw from school. According to his mother, from then on he was prone to experiencing panic attacks and depression. Although this time in his life was extremely difficult, Shepard still graduated in May then attended Catawba College in North Carolina and Casper College in Wyoming, before settling in Denver. Shepard became a first-year political science major at the University of Wyoming in Laramie, and was chosen as the student representative for the Wyoming Environmental Council. Shortly after midnight, on October 7th, 1998 Shepard met two men (Aaron McKinney and Russell Henderson) at the Fireside Lounge. He was offered a ride home, but shortly after leaving they robbed, pistol-whipped and tortured him, tying him to a fence leaving him to die. Matthew was left in the freezing cold suffering from his injuries before slipping into a coma. In total, it took 18 hours before he was found and rushed to the hospital. Upon arrival it became apparent that his injuries were too severe and the doctors couldn’t operate. On October 12th, Matthew Shepard died of his injuries, never having woken up from his coma. During the trial, McKinney tried to justify his actions by originally pleading that he and Henderson were driven to temporary insanity by alleged sexual advances by Shepard. I believe this is one of the key factors in understanding why people do what they do when it comes to homosexually based hate crimes. When men ‘check out’ or ‘hit on’ women they believe it is there right. The right to gaze upon a woman’s body is something they genuinely believe is a man’s right. There is no female equivalent to a man’s gaze. It is something that is seen as powerful and socially intimidating, and when the two men in the bar noticed Shepard looking at them it made them believe they were being hit on as if they were women. Both Aaron McKinney and Russell Henderson felt they needed to defend not only their masculinity but their heterosexuality. This is very important because, later on in the trial when McKinney states that while in the car Matthew made an apparent sexual advance toward him, instead of backing away McKinney begins hitting Shepard. After feeling like he had been emasculated back at the bar, I bet he was just looking for an excuse to exert power over Matt. Whether he had in fact made sexual advances toward Aaron isn’t the point, the point is that McKinney chose to defend his heterosexuality by literally beating the life out of him and showing him that he had the power. Both McKinney and Henderson were of slight build, but with Matthew being even smaller and only reaching 5’1 it only solidified in the minds of the two men their power of the homosexual man. What happens next is what changed this from a triggered â€Å"Gay Panic Defense† (which is, in my opinion a completely bogus and ridiculous excuse for those who can’t control their fists) to a hate crime and a murder. After severely beating Shepard in the moving truck, Henderson tied him to the fence. Their decision to tie his body up for everyone to see is part of their intensions to make it a public display of what they believe should be private. In an interview for the Laramie Project (a play based on the events of Matthew’s death), McKinney’s girlfriend tells writers about why the two men really decided to invite Matt into their car. After being disgusted at the thought of being hit on by a gay man they go to the bathroom where they plan to put on a gay pretense in order to lead Shepard into their vehicle and rob him. They wanted him to be punished for â€Å"coming onto straight people. † By lifting his body in midair and tethering him to the fence they were aware that someone would find him that way. They didn’t hide or trash or burry the body, they made it a spectacle. But in doing this, you can deduce that this murder wasn’t fully about Matthew Shepard. He was a trigger, he was someone they could take advantage of. They used his body to show not only to Matthew himself, but to Laramie and the surrounding community that they were defending their ‘manhood. ’ And in one of the most brutal ways you can imagine. Hate crimes towards people who are a different sexual orientation then others are more common than people think. There are a lot of organizations that try to help stop these hate crimes but I think that these situations should be in the news more often. People need to be more aware about what they say and what they do because you never know who could be listening. It could be your children who will take what you say as the truth. It could be someone walking near you or even in the same room and be deeply offended by what you say. You never know who you could offend, be it a friend, a co-worker or even a family member. People need to watch what they say because you never know who will be listening. Hate crimes must be stopped and it will take people to take action against it in order to make the world a better place.

Globalizare

I live in a country with a relatively young democracy. I experienced times when freedom of speech was prohibited and the access to information was strictly forbidden. And now I live in great times when bounds can be formed without the limits placed on humanity by the authorities, religion or race. The freedom that Internet gives us is wonderful, we can change Ideas, share information, enjoy art.Now, the access to information means power and I would like to give an example of n event that took place in Romania and which the International press named It â€Å"Romania autumn†. Thousands of people all over the country, with no leaders and organized mainly on social networks, protested against the open cast milling project that would use cyanide and destroy four mountains In the area, project that Is proposed by a foreign company In partnership with our country government.For this course project, I used an Image that represent one of the most valuable resource the earth has  œ gold, an Image that represents a great work of art – â€Å"the table of silence† made by the great Romania sculptor constantly Branches and an Image that represents a masterpiece of late Stone Age art, The Thinker, believed to be the oldest known prehistoric sculpture that reflects human introspection. We, the viewers, must reflect about the true values in our lives.We must think about the proverbial â€Å"Golden handcuffs† and about the possibility that there may be a truth behind this concept that can be easily translated in to a money language. The viewers must realize the huge responsibility that we humans have in order to preserve the natural resources for future generations, to live in harmony with all the species that inhabits the earth and, most important, to find a common language with nature because, like it or not, globalization affects the entire planet, sadly, not always in good ways. Internet gives us is wonderful, we can change ideas, share info rmation, enjoy art. N event that took place in Romania and which the international press named it organized mainly on social networks, protested against the open cast mining project that would use cyanide and destroy four mountains in the area, project that is proposed by a foreign company in partnership with our country government. For this course project, I used an image that represent one of the most valuable resource the earth has – gold, an image that represents a great work of art – â€Å"the table of silence† made by the great Romania sculptor Constantine Branches and an image that

History Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 20

History - Essay Example He currently earns a salary of $ 1 per month in a show of his philanthropy thereby investing the rest in numerous donor foundations. His success story begins back in his college days where he teamed up with a group of colleagues to create numerous computer programs and software applications. The journey to stardom as a social network entrepreneur has encountered myriad challenges most of which he overcame successfully thereby becoming the leading entrepreneur in the industry. Mark Zuckerberg had an average childhood just as most American children. He was born in White Plains, New York in 1984. While he currently bears no religious inclination, he was born a Jew with his conferment in the religion occurring while he was thirteen. He attended Ardsley High School alongside his other siblings namely Randi, Donna and Arielle. At school, Zuckerberg excelled in classical studies. Additionally, he had exemplary performance in physics, astronomy and math. Besides his exemplary in academics, Zuckerberg portrayed leadership and sports ability factors that influenced his selection to serve as the captain of the schools fencing team. He graduated from high school and applied to Harvard where he would later develop his career in software development. Zuckerberg ventured into software development early in life while in middle school. In the 1990s for example, his father, Edward Zuckerberg began teaching him different programming languages. He perfected in Atari BASIC programming. His father later hired David Newman to tutor him thereby growing his interest and skills in software development. Owing to his immense interest in computer programming and software development, Zuckerberg performed exemplarily with Newman calling him a prodigy in software development. Among his early success in the practice while still in middle school was a program he name â€Å"ZackNet†. He developed the

The Kyoto Protocol and climate change Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

The Kyoto Protocol and climate change - Essay Example Global warming and Political climate Global warming is a phenomenon that occurs as a result of greenhouse gases (GHGs) averting thermal radiations from being reflected back to the space. (Wang and Wiser 2002). Coppock (1998, p.2) defines it as the increase in average global temperatures as a result of pumping CO2 into the atmosphere thus changing its temperature levels which in turn affect the water bodies such as oceans and seas leading to alteration of the Earth’s hydrologic cycle. The global warming not only creates fear to the planet’s residents because of rising global temperatures, (currently above 1Â ° C higher than 5 centuries ago) but also an increase in intensity of hydrologic cycles. This causes storms which are responsible to flooding that leads to destruction of farmlands, life and property (Painuly and Rowlands 2001). Generally global warming has more immediate consequences such as floods, rising global temperatures and far-reaching environmental, economi c and social impact that does not chose whether one nation is the main producer of emissions or not (Carr and Thomas 1998). The ecosystem, a natural sink( the uptake of greenhouse gas by forests, soil etc) is of paramount importance as the changes in climates may cause organisms of fresh water and wetlands to face new conditions due to higher temperatures and altered precipitation thus may have trouble producing enough organic sediments and root material that enable them to adjust. Contentious issues According to Schiermeir (2012 p.3), for the planet Earth to get rid of dangerous climate change, countries should limit global emissions to less than 2Â ° C above preindustrial levels, the EU’s threshold likely to prevent dangerous climate change. Further, he assert that to contain a... The Kyoto Protocol is seen by some researchers as a remarkable achievement in international affairs. The first it has put the world on the right path by bringing in the issues of climate change to the table so as the nations can chose to join the work force to regulate the emissions. The second it will leave a valuable legacy since it developed methodologies for reporting and verifying national greenhouse-gas emissions and land-use changes that will act as guide for future climate treaty as with any agreement containing specific quantified and legally binding commitments, issues of monitoring and compliance are central. Third, it has come with a way of trading carbon emissions through the EU’s Emission Trading Scheme among countries that face limits. Also through the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) transactions, an establishment of market incentives is proposed for rich countries to get credits towards achieving their emissions’ targets by making cost-effective emissi ons cuts in poor. The CDM despite critics that it is plagued by bureaucracy, had an arm’s length investment worth almost U$100 billion supporting some 5000 CDM projects whose services range from provision of solar cookers to rural people, e.g. in China to supporting clean energy production projects such the 100-megawatt wind firm in Mexico.

CURRENTS EVENT Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

CURRENTS EVENT - Essay Example The market domains are largely run by supply and demand dynamics which have a long lasting role on the economic angles (Beattie, 2012). Similarly, costs and benefits need to be understood as well as these remain pivotal towards gaining an understanding of the economic studies. Also the incentives are spoken of once the costs and benefits are already discussed and when rational expectations are formulized. Their examination is much required from an economic viewpoint. Profit sharing remains the key as far as the modern day economic realms are concerned as these give a better idea of how things shall be sequenced alongside one another. Putting it together in such a fashion that there is harmony of sorts is the way to achieve success in the long run scheme of things as far as the economic concepts is related. This will essentially underline the need to remain head-on with the economic entities which have come about with the passage of time and which shall receive attention from all and sundry within the economic

Strategic and operation management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Strategic and operation management - Essay Example bsequently in 2007, the research and development team of the company developed Crylon fibre, which comprised of all the qualities to be counted as superior to Britlene, especially with its better heat resistant mechanism as compared to other fibres. It is noteworthy in this context that with the development of new products in the market sphere of the industry, the company has been losing its monopolistic positioning. Eventually, the company has been focused on developing new products to regain its leadership positioning, which was already threatened by the expiration of their previous patent on Britlene apart from the rising competition in the market being intruded by local as well as international traders. It is thus expected that the development of Crylon will prove effective in rewarding the organisation with its competitive advantages (Jones, n.d.). The paper particularizes on the critical analysis of the current strategic positioning of the company. Correspondingly, emphasis has been laid on evaluating the implication of change with due regards to resource planning. The options available to the company with the generation of new product, i.e. Crylon have further been assessed on the basis of Ansoff matrix, focused on evaluating its feasibility, suitability and acceptability in the market, as compared to its prior product performance of Britlene. Findings from these analyses have further been summarised to draw upon recommendations for DSF. In general, the strategic positioning of any company is mostly concerned with the impact of its undertaken initiatives in respect with the internal and the external sources persisting in the business environment, observing the influences of the stakeholders and competences of the firm (CIMA, 2008). When marketing a new product, observing the market trends from an overall perspective is essential. It is in this context that a company expanding business in the same product line thus becomes subjected to many speculations to

Employee rewards and performance management Essay

Employee rewards and performance management - Essay Example mportant for leaders of a particular team within an organization to should focus on individual performance and thus cumulatively the entire group will post very good returns. The team leader should focus on improving the output of each and every member. As such, it is important to bring on board individuals who are performers. This is normally done when workers are being recruited for various posts. According to the material, the team leader should focus not only on the positive issues that affect the group, but also should put measures that solve negative issue that impact the group. As such, the group should recognize each and every effort put by the team members regardless of the results that it yielded. The correct model of rewarding should ensure that appraisals are used to meet the intended purpose. The approached used in the system includes steps such as Measurement, Feedback, Positive Reinforcement, Exchange of Views and Agreement. After carefully analyzing the materials, I have come to realize that constructing a well thought-out technique to designing the performance appraisal is key to ensuring that the entire group works harmoniously to achieve the intended goals. The team should carry out regular assessment on the appraisal model to make sure that it serves the intended purpose of encouraging good results. The course has enabled me to gain a better insight on leadership. As such, I have been able to develop leadership skills that include effective collaborative practice and confidentiality that are essential when managing a team. The module has changed my perspectives on various issues that surround the reward system and leadership and management in

EXAM 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

EXAM 2 - Essay Example The process comprises of three, which include procedural due process, substantive due process and equation protection of law (Hunter 34). Due process aids in protecting the accused from denied his or her primary rights without undergoing impartial and adequate informed legal process. These rights encompass those related to liberty, life and property (Hunter 35). Hence, prevent influential people from using state’s powers given by constitution as a platform to the disadvantage of fellow citizens. In addition, it plays an indispensable role in granting the accused to defend oneself according to the law and for the court to hear his or her plea as well as argument concerning presented charges. Consequently, leading to a fair judgment without the court favoring any of the sides especially the accused because prosecution cites the convicted has done an intolerable wrongdoing. The essence of due process also prompts masses to have confidence and trust with the judicial system as well as other regime institutions because one is sure he or she will receive fair

Risks in Becoming Oneself in Society Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 5

Risks in Becoming Oneself in Society - Essay Example The first risk that is related to becoming oneself is related to the culture and the surrounding pressures that are in each environment. This comes from the pressures that others place on you, specifically which can cause one to lose their true self. In my instance, I find that there is a lot of pressure that comes from different social groups. The first social group that tries to define my personal identity is the peer group that I am surrounded by. Going to college is one that automatically changes this peer identity and leads into a definition from the old group to the newer groups that are into different activities and concepts. However, neither of these groups can truly identify the personality and the true self. Understanding which parts of my identity fit into this group, as well as which I have to overcome, both create a different risk. Some of the risks is one that is established with my choices of identity and what will be accepted, while others relate to what doesn’ t fit into groups and how to approach this within different groups. The second concept that applies to my identity and the way that it is redefined by different social groups is with the family and surrounding friends in different age groups. Most of the relations that I have outside of school and from the college environment are older than I am. This is related to the identity that most expect me to have at the age of 17, as well as how this relates to the expectations of the age, culture, and understanding at this age. Family and older acquaintances often assume that I will act or be a specific way, which causes a loss of respect. This identity is one that continuously has to be battled and approached with changed attitudes so the idea of my age doesn’t interfere with the inner belief of who I am.

Evaluation of learning as well as teaching Essay

Evaluation of learning as well as teaching - Essay Example There are various ways through which student’s learning can be assessed, but the best way of assessing student learning is one that promotes learning. In this comparison essay, two assessment tools including the formative assessment and summative assessment tools will be assessed on the basis of definition, purpose, procedure and tools that are used while teachers use any of the two assessment criteria. Formative assessment tools are much effective as compared to the summative assessment tools as the formative ones encourage learning and development of students. Body Definition Formative assessment tools used in educational settings are those that promote learning with the assistance of generation of feedback that is of ample amount of advantage to both teachers as well as students (Marzano 9). The feedback obtained from this tool is used for making alterations to the learning procedure of students. This definition of formative assessment tools clearly exhibit that these tools are used to help make changes to the learning procedure of students in order to advance their learning activities. Student evaluation that is summative in nature is defined as conducting assessment of student learning for a particular time frame. This assessment tool is used to summarize the development of a student that has taken place in a particular frame of time period (Marzano 8). The definition of summative evaluation reflects that it does not help in advancing learning and is rather used to assess how well learning has already taken place and according to this evaluation student’s development is rated. Purpose The main aim of formative assessment tools is to advance student learning by providing feedback regarding their learning practices. When teachers use formative assessment tools they do not rate or rank how well a student has learned what is being taught. They rather analyze the methods that are used by students to learn and then provide feedback that is used by the student to make alterations to his/her learning techniques. The very fact that student’s responses in formative assessment are not marked is evidence that this tool focuses on the quality of learning, rather than the quantity of learning that has taken place. On the other end, the fundamental aim of summative learning is to rate the quantity of learning that has taken place. In summative assessment, the responses provided by students are rated and ranked by teachers which are sheer proof of the fact that this assessment focus on how much student has learned. Procedure There is ample amount of difference in which both these assessments are conducted. In case of formative assessment, first the assessment is conducted while learning is taking place, and teachers provide feedback during the process of learning, this feedback is then used during the process of learning by the student to make alteration to his/her method of learning or is used by the teacher to make changes to his/her method of teaching. This procedure of conducting formative assessment clearly reflects that the procedure is helping students learn as feedback provided within the learning process can help in making changes to the process. In case of summative learning, tests are taken to assess the quantity of learning that has taken place over a time frame. Since these tests are taken after the learning has taken place, it is quite evident that students fail to make changes to their learning process. Tools Tools used for the purpose of formative assessment are mostly those through which teachers are able to provide on the spot assessment and reflection on the learning of a particular student. For example: questions asked during classroom lectures can be

Real Reason People Wont Change Essay Example for Free

Real Reason People Wont Change Essay The real reason people wont change is an article by Robert Kegan and Lisa Laskow Lahey. The article was first published in November 2001 in Harvard Business Review. The article describes and summarize about the personal immunity of people that resist them from being changed. The real reason people wont change is not due to lack of skill and deep commitment within them but it is due to hidden competing commitment followed by big assumptions. For some, the need is confidence-building, for others its behavior change or skill development. But sometimes, no matter how hard a person tries, their progress remains inexplicably stalled. The situation can be as frustrating to bosses, colleagues, and family members as it is to the individual. Organizational psychologists Robert Kegan and Lisa Laskow Lahey developed the theory of a competing commitment to explain what they term personal immunity to change. Competing commitments are long held belief that has become an integral part of their make up so that it is difficult to change. When these beliefs are uncovered, change is possible. And it is still true that some people opt not to disrupt their immunity to change, choosing instead to continue their fruitless struggle against their competing commitments. The competing commitments cause even the valued employee to behave in inexplicably and irremediable way. It is a subconscious hidden goal of the people that conflicts with their stated commitments. Many of these competing commitments are based on long-held beliefs that are an integral part of their make-up so they can be difficult to change. Some examples of competing commitments are: Dragging ones feet on an assignment because one wants to avoid a next tougher assignment or future lack of work. * Avoiding teamwork or meetings because one wants to avoid the conflict that is associated with it. * Using sarcastic disruptive humor to keep oneself at a distance from a work group you may not want to be associated with. The article is a psychological analysis and research about the reason that resist people from being changed. The research of the article is mainly concern about uncovering the hidden competing commitment and unearthing big ssumptions. It is not an easy task to uncover the hidden commitment but author has suggested to go through the set of questions. They have developed 3 stage processes to help organizations to figure out what’s getting on way to change? 1. Manager guides employees to uncover competing commitments through the set of questions. 2. Employees examine these commitments to determine underlying assumptions. 3. Start the process of changing behavior. The author presents the example of John who is a talented manager at a software company. Though he is an open communicative type and values close relationship with others, because of his racial group he could not well integrated with the team even if he wanted. He believed that if he became well integrated with the team, it would threaten his sense of loyalty to his own racial group betraying his family and friends. John was genuinely committed to working with team but he had a powerful hidden competing commitment keeping him distance. Another example cited in the article is that of Helen, a manager at manufacturing company. Though she was committed to increase the production of the product she could not succeed. She had an unrecognized commitment of maintaining subordinate relationship with her boss Andrew. She thought that she would me more a peer than a subordinate so wouldn’t be up to the task. The article also describes about the big assumptions. Every employee who just does not change had a hidden commitment because of the assumptions resulting from the competing commitment. Some leaders assume that they would be incompetent if they couldn’t solve all the problems that come up. Even if they have a commitment to hearing from subordinates and maximize the flow of information, they had a competing commitment to not learning about things that he cant do. Competing commitment and big assumptions are the real reason that causes people resist to change. Kegan and Laheys recommended solution for diagnosing this resistance to change is based on guiding individuals through a set of questions to uncover competing commitments. For example 1. What would you like to see changed at work, so that you could be more effective or so that work would be more satisfying? 2. What beliefs or commitments are implied by this recommended change? 3. What are you doing or not doing, that is keeping your beliefs or commitments to change from being fully realized? 4. What if you were to imagine doing the opposite of what you are currently doing, would that cause discomfort, worry or vague fear? 5. What if you were to actually carry out this opposite behaviour, what outcomes are you trying to prevent? The first question responses the complaint which we mostly talk about. Tom, a manager grumbled, â€Å"my subordinates keep me out of the loop. The responses are the complaint which the most managers bemoan because of its negative and unproductive tone. The second question responses complaint what people care about most. Tom said I believed in open and candid communication. It’s a commitment of the Tom to shared decision making. Once the commitments of people are found, third question is identifying the undermining behavior that prevented them from being fulfilled. Tom admitted â€Å"When people bring bad news, I tend to shoot the messenger. † Next question is about going in the opposition of the undermining behavior. Tom concluded Im afraid Ill hear about a problem that I cant fix, something that I cant do anything about. After all, the final step is to transform that passive fear into a statement that reflects an active commitment to preventing certain outcomes. The resulting answer to this final question is the competing commitment which lies at the very heart of a persons immunity to change. These commitments usually involve protecting yourself from things like, not being in control, having to follow someone elses decisions, having to go along with decisions you dont like, not having to deal with problems you cant fix and so on. Once people uncover their competing commitments, big assumption can be easily found out. If people inverted the beginning of the sentences of competing commitment, and then filled out the sentence then assumption can be identified. For e. g. the assumption of Tom is I assume that if I did hear about problems I can’t fix, people would discover I’m not qualified to do my job. This is a difficult process, and it doesn’t happen all at once, because admitting to big assumptions makes people uncomfortable. After identifying competing commitment and big assumptions, Kegan and Lahey had recommended five steps on how to take action to overcome immunity to change. Notice and record current behavior It is about making a note of what does and doesnt happen as a result of holding assumptions to be true. This gives people the opportunity to develop a better appreciation for how and in what contexts big assumptions influence their lives. Look for contrary evidence Employees must look actively for experiences that might cast doubt on the validity of their big assumptions. When John looked around him, he considered for the first time that an African-American manager in another department had strong working relationships with her mostly white colleagues, yet seemed not to have compromised her personal identity. Explore the history It is exploring how and when assumptions took hold, and how long the self-protective stance has been employed Test the assumption It considers making changes in ones behaviour and test out if assumptions are validated; practice in safe environments or where one can extricate oneself fairly quickly if it becomes too uncomfortable. This is the first time people consider making changes in their behavior. Evaluate the results The final step is to check out the result and look for more effective ways to operate in future. This is worth nothing that revealing a big assumption does not necessarily mean it will be exposed as false. But even if big assumption contains the elements of truth, an individual can often find more effective way to operate once he or she has had a chance to challenge the big assumption. The process of challenging and uncovering the competing commitment and unfolding personal immunity to change takes a period of time. Competing commitments should not be seen as a weakness but some form of self-protection which is a normal form of human instinct. The reasons people are protecting themselves usually lie in some deeply-rooted beliefs about themselves and the world around them. These competing commitments usually arise from some big assumptions we have made about the world. People rarely realize they hold assumptions because they accept them as reality. So its necessary to uncover our hidden commitment and big assumptions that has been distance us away from change.

Vehicle Suspension Is The Mechanism Engineering Essay

Vehicle Suspension Is The Mechanism Engineering Essay This suspension system will fulfil their task by allow the forces to be distributed when the wheels are rotating on the ground, complying with design specification in every load state. Also we have the geometric variation of the body position from the trim which is caused by the static and quasi static forces, these three coordinates of the centre of gravity and three angles of the body reference system which is yaw, pitch and angle. These three angles are included under the vehicle static. The main work of suspension is to absorb the shocks and irregularities that are transferred to the body, this is accomplished by the damping systems. Normally it is possible that the tyre alone can isolate the shocks that are coming from the road, but this can only be accomplished when the vehicle is driven at a smooth road and at very low speed. Because tyres damping properties are not good enough to handle the road shocks, that is why we have suspension system, this allows the wheels to rotate freely, very safe and comfortable for driving. The basic different types of suspension systems are available today. These are semi Independent, dependant and independent suspension (Genta Morello, 2009, p. 153). Front Wheel Drive Diagram According to May, 2005, p. 470 state that, when we speak about suspension we have to include the terms sprung and unsprung weight. Sprung mass indicates as the weight of the vehicle that is supported by the springs including the frame, body and everything attached to them including the parts of the suspension and unsprung mass refers as the weight of the suspension components such as the wheels, tyres and brakes on which the springs rest, or all the parts of the suspension that are not supported by the springs The independent suspension As the name suggest the wheels in this system are attached independently, and this helps to reduce the impact that is transferred to the other wheel when the vehicle travels through road irregularities. This system involves McPherson strut, double wishbone and multilink. The strut contains shock absorber and spring is located by a ball joint, which is built in to the end of the suspension arm while the rubber mounting is moulded at the other end. This is one of the few reasons that make the suspension parts of this system work freely and it makes this by far the most common type of suspension in the market today. (3D auto.com, 2006). The negative part is it is required more solid chassis or sub frame structure, the slight change in wheel track causes the tyre to scrub during the bouncing of one wheel and the alignment of the steering geometry is critical and needs more attention (Crankshaft). http://www.autolign.co.nz/images/NolathaneIndRear2.gif Independent suspension system Dependent suspension This system usually connects the two wheels that are paralleled to each other on the same rigid straight and perpendicular axle, because all mechanical linkage work together, this can affect the movement of the other wheel when the vehicle road shocks or irregularities occur. Due to its ruggedness, this system is mostly often used on heavy truck, SUVs and rear wheel drive cars (Blue Ribbon Motoring LLC, 2010). http://img.alibaba.com/photo/51011605/Front_Dependent_Air_Suspension.jpg Dependent suspension system Semi independent suspensions: This systems utilizes a cross member that joins the two trailing arms. Regardless of the solid connection with the cross member and the trailing arms, the cross member will always twist with each up and down movement of the wheels. This twisting activity will give semi independent movement as well as stabilizer effect. The purpose of this suspension is to limit the body displacement to a minimum. This helps to increase the vehicle stability. Suspensions system can also be classified as passive or active. Passive suspension system involves shock absorber and spring. These two elements are passive because they cannot add energy to this type of suspension system and passive suspension is the one that receives the energy from sources like engine which affects the body motion. This limits the motion close to its static equilibrium (Genta Morello, 2009, p.358). The following diagrams are examples of passive and active suspension: Passive suspension system Active suspension system http://www.waset.org/journals/waset/v25/v25-11.pdf(pictures) SUSPENSION COMPONENTS: Coil springs: These are basically heavy wound steel wire used to support the weight of the vehicle as well as to absorb energy from road shocks or vibration between the road and the vehicle body. Springs usually located between control arms and chassis or around McPherson strut. They can be conical or spiral wound, constant rate or uneven rate, changeable pitch spacing and variable wire thickness. Coil springs can be customised and also be used in different variations and arrangement in the suspension system (Ciulla, 2002). Damping members When the vehicle travels through road shocks, the energy is given to the spring that is deflected, the spring creates an oscillating motion that results affects the handling and comfortability of the car. To stop this, damping members (shock absorbers) are installed. They are designed to store this oscillation energy and let the spring to return to its natural state. Few different types of shock absorbers are available today. These are hydraulic, lever type and telescopic direct acting type (Hillier, 1991, p. 364) http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/car-suspension-8.gif Leaf spring: This type of spring is mainly used in the heavy and commercial vehicles. It is made up of one or more flat leaves or bent toughened steel or plates of composite material that are attached at the ends to the vehicle under body. It connects the vehicle frame to the axle by using the U bolt that secures the metal plates that rest against the leaf springs. The U bolt also keeps the spring level against the axle, this helps to stop the vehicle from shaking under the load when driving. It has a hook end that makes it flexible when the road shocks and vibration occur. The leaf spring shape allows them to flex and absorb bumps. This type of spring is very reliable and strong in carrying heavy loads, they also help in spreading the load on all over the chassis while the coil spring just transmit it to a single point (Spring-makers-resource.net). Torsion bar: These are usually metal bars which act as a spring and can also be moved about its axis through twisting. The main job is to resist the torque placed on the vehicle by twist it along its axis. This torque is created by the force when the vehicle is moving, once the torque has been counteracted, it normally returns to its natural state. This provides the resistance level to the forces that are generated by the movement of the vehicle. The major disadvantage of the torsion bar is it cannot provide the progressive spring rate while the progressive torsion bars have a tendency to crack when the diameter of the bar changes (CDX Online eTextbook). Anti roll bar/Sway bar/Stabiliser: This is fitted underneath the front and rear of the vehicle, connected at the lower control arm. They operate together with shock absorbers/struts to provide the vehicle with at most stability as well as body roll and improve cornering traction. When the wheels move at different angles from the other, an anti sway bar helps it in maintaining the balance and stability in case of a bad movement or a sway of the vehicle. It can also help in reducing over steer or under steer when the correct anti roll bars are chosen. They are fitted tightly and tend to give a bumpy ride as it transfers force direct to the other wheel. The tighter it is the safer the vehicle is from rolling (Turnfast.com, 2008). http://www.jamesglass.org/JGA/2labor/Z_laborIMAGES/00general/0-5_glossary/antiroll_bar.jpg Air spring: The air spring is designed to provide a vibration free and a smooth ride with a preset constant frame height. It also helps to reduce the spring oscillation so that the steering control is not compromised. It can work as a mechanical leaf type spring or used with them. The air spring system helps to reduce the road shock transfer to the chassis, cargo and the driver. In addition to that it can be easily adjusted according to the load and road conditions by using a height control valve. Other major components used in this system are pressure regulator, air lines and air springs. Zero stability to dampen suspension oscillation is the main disadvantage of this system and shock absorber is used to overcome this (Bennet, 2007, p. 268). http://www.streetrodparts.tv/400-ap-35-48-Ford-Mustang.gif Bushes: These are the linkage between the vehicle, springs, struts and shock absorbers. They tend to provide the movement point of the vehicle as well as avoiding metal to metal contact between the body and the suspension links. They are designed to be soft enough to maintain the alignments settings that help in maintaining steering control and allow the adequate rotational movement. Bushes are usually fitted where ever there is a metal to metal contact. However, the main disadvantage is, it is wearing out after some time and thus need to be replaced and it can be expensive and hard job depends on the types of bushes or where they are going to be fitted (Autolign). Common locations of vehicle bushes. http://www.autolign.co.nz/images/Bushes_000.jpg Ball joints: The main job for the ball joint is to enable the suspension to move on any angle or rotating the coupling that is usually the interface between knuckle and a control arm in a vehicle suspension. It performs as the pivot point between the suspension and the tyre and this helps in improving the performance (TRW Automotive, 2010). ball joints Control arms: This is normally connects the body chassis to the suspension of the vehicle. COMMON SUSPENSION SYSTEM TYPES: Trailing arm: This normally connected at the front of the chassis, it allows the rear to move up and down. Two of these become double trailing systems arm and usually work precisely the same as the double wishbone. The arms of this system can be seen from the side of the chassis, travel back equivalent to it. However it takes a lot of room underneath but it doesnà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢t experience the side to side scrubbing setback as the double wishbone systems (Longhurst, 2010). Trailing arm car suspension McPherson struts: This type of suspension is the further development of double wishbone, the higher transverse link is replaced by a pivot point on the wheel house panel, that takes the end of the piston road and the coil spring, this create the forces from all directions to be concentrated at this point and this causes a bending stress in the piston road. When this happens, a normal rod diameter in shock absorber must be increased by at least 18mm from 11 mm, this will avoid the detrimental elastic camber and camber exchanges. The parts of this system are usually combined into one assembly while its negative point is it takes a lot of room underneath the car (Reimpell, Stoll Betzler, 2001, p. 10). MacPherson Strut Double wishbone: This is an independently system, usually the wheel is directed by a pair of triangulated wishbones and track road. The lower wishbone is connected to the strut and this offers the vertical support. The sporty set up design of this system is due to its generous through loading width and a low height. This has a beneficial effect on for motion drive, the transmission of high active forces and road-holding. It also provides camber control that gives a better handling. The negative point is it can engage a space and expensive to design (Volkswagen Canada, 2010) http://www.autolign.co.nz/images/Bushtype1.jpg Multilink suspension: This is originated from the double wishbone, the suspension links use more than three lateral arms and more than one longitudinal arms, and these can be in various length and the angle can be away from their natural directions. The arms are normally connected by spherical joint or bushing at each end and this stopping them from bending, it also allows them to work in tension and compression. The pivots in this suspension are designed to allow the spindle to turn for the steering and change the geometry of the suspension by provide torque in all suspension arms. Different car manufactures have different designs. The main positive aspect is this system lets the vehicle to flex more, better handling because of the multi links while the negative part is it is more expensive to design and manufacture due to its complexity (Raiciu, 2009) Multi Link Transverse leaf spring: This system was used during the old days, it involves leaf spring and independent double wishbone together. The leaf spring is connected at each end of the lower wishbone and is mounted across the vehicle. A sub frame in the middle of the car is connected by the centre of the spring and each of the shock absorbers is mounted at each side of the lower wishbones (Longhurst, 2010) Transverse leaf spring suspension Solid-axle: leaf spring This provides an easy way of placing and mounting the hub and wheel units. Along with coil or leaf springs can create an effective non independent suspension system. The drive is transferred through the final drive unit and axles to the wheels, and this situation causes the axle to become a live axle. The torque reaction which is caused by a vehicle when it accelerates, causing a housing of the axle to spin in the opposite of the wheel rotation. During braking, a similar result can occur but with the twisting result in the way of wheel rotation. This can cause the twisting of the leaf spring and this can result in obstructing with the suspension motion ((CDX Online eTextbook). Transverse leaf spring suspension Solid-axle: coil spring This system has replaced leaf springs because they are lighter and have less unsprung weight that provides a comfortable ride but they cannot hold the axle in line. It is mainly used in the rear wheel drive vehicles. It is normally comes with one or more control arms and two lower control arms that manage the side movement and axle motion. The track bar may be needed when one upper arm is used, this connects the vehicle from one end to the other end. In reducing the vibration, rubber bushing can be used as the suspension travels through road irregularities. The track bar is not required when two upper arms are used (Monroe technology driven safety, 2008) The rear coil spring suspension is a variation of the rear leaf spring suspension often found in rear- Solid axle coil spring suspension diagram Beam axle: In this suspension the pair of front two wheels are connected to each other using a solid axle. This results in no camber loss from body roll because the wheels are always perpendicular to the road. It is also very simple structure since it doesnà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢t contain many parts, it is very strong and can be very useful in carrying bigger loads. The disadvantages of this suspension is, it is too big thus gives a lot of mass and takes a lot of space, since it is a dependent suspension the force from one wheel can be transmitted to the other wheel and this can result in an uncomfortable ride and reducing the vehicle stability in cornering (Lowry, 2004) http://www.automotivearticles.com/uploads/beam_axle_img_001.jpg Hydropneumatic suspension: This was originally invented by Citroen. The system compresses a gas rather than a fluid. The hydraulic fluid normally provide levelling and damping while the gas becomes a spring. Sometime this system can be driven using an engine driven pump that causes the hydraulic system to be pressurised and this assists it in levelling on the different height, jack assisting and stop the body roll. Fully powered braking system and power steering can also be available. The rear and front unit contains hydrolastic displacers, a small bore pipe is used to interconnect these displacers, and each displacer incorporates a rubber spring. The pipes, rubber, and fluid that are featured in this system always act as a damping system. The rubber springs are to keep the car level and freed from any tendency pitch. It can perform this without hinder the complete range of activity on any suspension and this provides the soft ride. The negative points are, it can be expensive to fix or replace it and sometime it does require a very well trained person to deal with (Marsh, 2001). Dynamic suspension This type of suspension is commonly used in Audi A4. It contains aluminium materials that are used to reduce an unsprung weight to the minimum. The differential in this system is moved to the front and the clutch to the rear, and the front axle has been repositioned 154 mm farther forward. Optimisation of axle-load distribution is achieved by relocating the car battery in the boot. By having additional differential at the rear, weight distribution is even better balanced. These vehicles will be more responsive and will take less effort to guide and position, resulting in better handling and very low under steer and gives good traction when cornering http://www.audiworld.com/news/07/b8-a4-in-depth/suspension/A4070151_medium.jpg (Audi AG, 2007) ELECTRONIC AND ACTIVE SUSPENSIONS This type of suspension is operated by the computer, which collects the data from different sensors such as how fast the vehicle is turning, speed of the wheels rotation, pitch, roll and height information. A simple system only involves maintaining the height level of the vehicle whereas, the four wheel height adjustment system can improves ground clearance when off road and minimises aerodynamic drag and economical fuel consumption. Suspension systems that are electronically controlled tend to be more expensive and are usually found in high performance and luxury cars. Active suspension systems are the most recent developments that involve microprocessing. This varies the orifice size of the restrictor valve in a hydraulic suspension or shock absorber which causes the effective spring rate to change, lateral force, load, acceleration, or a driver preference vehicle speed can be control inputs for the processor ( http://automobiles.mapsofindia.com/useful-information/modern-suspension-system.html FUTURE SUSPENSION: Active Electromagnetic Electromagnetic suspension that combines a passive spring with a brushless tubular permanent magnet actuator. During cornering and braking this system gives more safety and stability by presenting a pitch and an active roll. It can also eliminate the road shocks by due to the measurements, static and dynamic specifications of the actuator are developed. The fulfilling of the thermal and volume specifications can be completed by using a slot less external-magnet tubular actuator (http://alexandria.tue.nl/openaccess/Metis230153.pdf) (Koji, Masaharu, Takaaaki, 2006) INTEGRATED KINETIC TM H2 CES SYSTEM: This system is an interconnected passive reactive system that controls damping and reducing high roll and articulation stiffness. The tyre load optimisation improves performance. This is achieved by replacing four double-acting hydraulic cylinders each with two integrated CES damper valves on antiroll bars and shock absorbers. An automatic pressure maintenance unit (APMU), and a pair of accumulators with valves and interconnected hydraulic lines. The flow is restricted by the two CES valves in each corner, this allows the better performance and good handling. In addition to that, the CES damper valves are electronically controlled by the intelligent control algorithms in order to allow the wheel motions and a body control (Tenneco). Sustainability: Recycling: Conclusion:

FDI Trends in India and China: An Analysis

FDI Trends in India and China: An Analysis Chapter 1: Aim and Objectives All nations need a vision for future which stirs the thoughts and motivates different segments of society to a greater effort and thus inclines them to work toward the common cause that is economy growth of the individual nation. The market oriented policies normally have exclusionary impact which needs to be prevented through articulate response of the policy makers. India is the third-largest economy in the world in PPP (purchasing power parity) terms foreign direct investments (FDI), But China is currently a favourite nation and is more successful in attracting FDI over India Ballabh (2008). Hence, this thesis strives to analyse the past trend of FDI in India and China, its types, its critical analysis with regards to host country and investing firm, important factors of globalisation and foreign direct investments (FDI) strategies to be adopted, Finally, Its comparison with Chinas FDI and empirical evidences would help us cover aim of our thesis which is among India and China, Wh y is China more successful in attracting FDI than India and is favoured over India? Therefore this paper has been divided in seven sections. It starts with brief introduction to FDI and its types in section 1. Section 2 covers background information and literature review that gives us a picture of the FDI policies in the past, Its trends and impact on MNCs in context to India and China, FDIs role on host economy and MNCs, , Its critical analysis based on Morans model, and finally investment strategies adopted by MNCs where to invest and what to invest. This would give us greater insight into the chosen topic by discussion of various forms of FDI, its impact on MNCs, on host economy and presenting an argument on discussion. Section three; presents the discussion on methodology to be used for the data collection and analysis. Section four is our data analysis and discussion section that is further divided into two sections, first half covers Chinas FDI spread-its Sectoral regional trends, the figures from the data sorted to analyse the growth in FDI over years and in different sectors, FDI distributions and opportunity sector that is playing increasingly important role by embracing FDI growth. The other half covers Indias FDI Spread-Sectoral and Country wise distribution. Again we use graphs and charts to analyse the trend. Comparative analysis of China with India would act as an indispensable step in structuring a consensus on a broad national development strategy to attract foreign investors that encompasses the roles and responsibilities of different agents in the economy, like Central, the private corporate sector, State and local government. Therefore finally presenting a logical explanation why China is a favourable nation over India and is highly successful in attracting FDI, hence the same is to be discussed in section five. Section Six is about building a feasible policy framework toward attracting FDI for the interest of the MNCs and host economy with reference to Chinas successful strategy in attracting FDI and summary of the literature followed by the concluding remarks are presented in the last section. The Concept of FDI is now an integral part of every nations economic prospect but the term remains vague to many, despite the thoughtful effects on the host economy and MNCs, despite the extensive studies on FDI, there has been little illumination forthcoming and it remains a contentious topic. The research findings will throw up a range of interesting possibilities in two countries, critical issues and crucial decision-points for government and private bodies to decide upon investment for future action in the favoured country. Therefore, the paper would explores the uneven beginnings of FDI in two countries, examine and present many important theoretical and empirical evidences on FDI and its impact on economy and MNCs, and would find reasons why China is more successful in FDI over India develop a feasible policy framework towards FDI in particular sector in India or China and making most out of it. Chapter 2: Introduction Foreign direct investment has multiple effects on the investing firm and on the economy of a host country. FDI influences the production, employment, income, prices, exports, imports, balance of payments, economic growth, and general welfare of the receiving economy Maniam (1998). Hence this section covers definition and types of Foreign Direct Investment, FDIs role been so far based on background information, discussion of resources and finally the theoretical aspect of why and where firms decide to invest abroad for benefits with special reference to India and China alongside host countrys motive to attract FDI. Definition of FDI Bergman (2006) defined FDI as a direct or portfolio investment. A direct investment is an acquisition or construction of physical capital by a firm from one source country into another (host) country. The FDI is an investment that involves a long-term relationship and control by a resident entity of one country, in a firm located in a country other than that of the investing firm. There is more involved in the direct investment than only money capital, for instance, managerial or technical guidance. FDI is generally defined as resident firms with at least 10% of foreign participation (UNCTAD, 2002). Types of FDI MNCs have various options to enter into a foreign market. FDIs Different types have different levels of control and risks. For example, Green field investment is when a firm establishes a subsidiary in a new country and starts its own production. In this type of investment a new plant is constructed rather than the purchase of an existing plant or firm. For this reason, there is large risk and has high set up costs because the foreign firm most likely does not have enough legislation knowledge, nor it has an existing distribution network and neither a local management skills. But still, the foreign firm has more control. On the contrary, Brown field investment is FDI that involves the purchase of an existing plant or firm, rather than building of a new plant. Joint venture is an equity and management partnership between the foreign firm and a local firm in the host market. Most host countries prefer the formation of joint ventures, as a way to build international co-operation, and to secure technology transfer (Samli Hill, 1998). In This type of investment the foreign partners contribute toward technology or products, the financial resources, and at the same time the local partner provides the manpower, skills and knowledge required for managing a firm in the host country (Bergman 2006). On UNCTADs website we can have a comprehensive understanding of it and its types. It defines FDI as an investment that involves a long-term relationship and reflects a permanent interest of a resident entity in one economy (direct investor) in an entity resident in an economy other than of the investor. The direct i nvestors idea is to put forth a significant degree of influence on the management of the enterprise resident in the other economy. FDI covers both the opening and subsequent transaction between the two entities and among affiliated enterprises, both incorporated and unincorporated. FDI may be undertaken by individuals, as well as business entities. It further is classified as follows: FDI Stock: it is the value of the share (For associate and subsidiary enterprises,) of their capital and reserves (including the retained profits) attributable to the parent enterprise (this is equal to the total assets minus total liabilities), plus the net indebtedness of associate or subsidiary to the parent firm. For branches, it is value of fixed assets and the value of current assets and investments, excluding amounts due from parent, less liabilities to third parties. Reinvested Earnings: The part of an affiliates earnings accruing to the foreign investor that is reinvested in that enterprise. FDI Flows: FDI flows (For associate and subsidiary enterprises) consists of the net sales of shares and loans (including non-cash acquisitions made against equipment, manufacturing rights, etc.) to the parent company plus the parent firms share of the affiliates reinvested earnings plus total net intra-company loans (short- and long-term) provided by the parent company. And, for branches, FDI flows consist of the increase in reinvested earnings plus the net increase in funds received from the foreign direct investor. Equity Capital: The foreign direct investors net purchase of the shares and loans of an enterprise in a country other than its own. Other Capital: Short- or long-term loans from parent firms to affiliate enterprises or vice versa. Also included are trade credits, bonds and money market instruments, financial leases and financial derivatives. Chapter 3: Background Information and Literature Review History of FDI in India Indias foreign trade and investment regime has been identified in two different phases- Pre-1991 reforms phase and the post-1991 phase. Pre-1991 reforms phase that stretched over to four decades is worth reviewing in some detail as although the regime was marked by extensive regulation of trade and investment, it did not shun foreign enterprise participation in the economy and the nature of the regulatory framework was mostly complex and cumbersome. This has been extensively analysed by Kidron (1965) Kumar (1994). The specification of sectors in which both foreign financial and technical participation were allowed, those in which only technical collaboration was permitted, and those in which neither technical and nor financial participation was allowed, reflects the desire to restrict foreign ownership and control to sectors of the economy in which its contribution was deemed to be essential. A preference to technical collaboration agreements instead of foreign equity ownership refl ects the desire to promote the twin objectives of preserving freedom from foreign control over operations and simultaneously gaining access to foreign technology and know-how. The Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA) of 1973 under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was considered a hostile act. The FERA required foreign firms to dilute their equity holdings to less than 40% or export a substantial share of their total output. This resulted to closure of renowned MNCs like IBM and Coca Cola to shut their operations in India.1967-79, the number of collaborations agreements per year reached an all-time low of 242. The Mid- 1980s saw a considerable though not a radical relaxation of the dirigiste trade and investment regime, with a relatively benign attitude towards foreign enterprise participation. The major crucial change during this period was a significant change in the pattern of foreign investment in India away from plantations, minerals and petroleum toward the manufacturing sector. By the end of decade of eighties manufacturing accounted for nearly 85% out of total stock of FDI of about Rupees 28 billion. Inflows of private capital remained meagre in the 1980s: they averaged less than $0.2 billion per year from 1985 to 1990 (Kapur Athreye 1999). In the year 1991, India too liberalised its highly regulated FDI regime, in place for more than three decades. Arguably Balasubramanyam (2004) in his book stated that, it took an economic crisis for India to liberalise its trade and FDI regime rather than a fundamental change in attitude towards the role of FDI in development process. Nonetheless, the 1991 reforms marked a major break from the earlier dirigiste regime with its regulation of the spheres of foreign enterprise participation on its mode of operation. And the policy framework was opaque with the implementation of policy based on bureaucratic consideration of each case on its merits. Hence the 1991 reforms were to change all this: The abolition of the industrial licensing system, controls over foreign trade and foreign investment were considerable relaxed, including the removal of ceilings on equity ownership by foreign firms. The reforms did result in increased inflows of FDI during the decades of the nineties as it consi derable relaxed the dirigiste regime that prevailed for more than four decades (Balasubramanyam Mahambare 2004). Hence with the liberalisation of the economy, fresh foreign investment was invited in a range of industries. Inflows to India rose steadily through the 1990s, exceeding $6 billion in 1996-97. The fresh inflows were primarily as portfolio capital in the early years (that is, diversified equity holdings not associated with managerial control), but increasingly, they have come as foreign direct investment (equity investment associated with managerial control). This was further supported by historically low interest rates in the US that encouraged global investment funds to diversify their portfolios by investing in emerging markets. International flows of direct investment, which had averaged $142 bn per year over 1985-90, more than doubled to $350 billion in 1996, with the developing countries receiving $130 billion (Kapur Athreye 1999). 1996-1998, the period of the coalition government has been an imperative period in our study; Singh (2005) classified this as a period when government has shown willingness to understand FDI by placing policies that would result in an increase in FDI and further liberalization for the common cause. There was an increased understanding on the role of FDI in all sectors. Industries still lead the reforms whereby automatic approval of FDI was increased up to 74% by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in nine categories of industries, including electricity generation and transmission, non-conventional energy generation and distribution, construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, ports, harbours, runways, waterways, tunnels, pipelines, industrial and power plants, pipeline transport , water transport, cold storage and warehousing for agricultural products, mining services including silver and precious stones, manufacture of iron ore pellets, pig iron, semi-finished iron and steel and man ufacture of navigational, meteorological, geophysical, oceanographic, hydrological and ultrasonic sounding instruments and items based on solar energy (indiabudget.nic.in). January 1997, Government announced the first ever guidelines for FDI speedy approval in areas that are not covered under automatic approval. Above trends illustrates the earlier point of the government recognizing and carrying forth of the previous work done by the Rao government. While the advantage of FDI did not reach the mindset of the common man but government seemed to show possibilities of overall development through FDI. For example when Indian industry registered a modest growth rate of 7.1% in 1996-97, which was much lower than the 12.1% in 1995-96, there was research carried out which revealed this was partially attributable to the mining and electricity generation sectors which recorded very low growth rates of 0.7 % and 3.9 % respectively. Hence, the policy was immediately rectified and re-enforced by expanding the list of industries eligible for foreign direct equity investment under the automatic approval route by RBI in 1997-1998 (indiabudget.nic.in). 2004-05, embraced FDI for being an integral part of national development strategies. Its global popularity along with positive output in augmenting of domestic capital, productivity and employment; has made it an essential tool for initiating economic growth for nations. During this phase, India evolved as one of the most favoured destination for FDI in Asia. It has displaced US as the second-most favoured destination for FDI in the world after China. According to an AT Kearneys FDI Confidence Index, India attracted more than three times foreign investment at US$ 7.96 bn during the first half of 2005-06 fiscal, as against US$ 2.38 bn during the corresponding period of 2004-05. FDI in India has contributed effectively to the overall growth of the economy in the recent times. FDI inflow has an impact on Indias transfer of new technology and innovative ideas, improving infrastructure, a competitive business environment (Indianground.com). Ballabh (2008) in his article mentioned about the Balance of payments (BOP) since independence, Indias BOP on its current account has been negative. Since liberalisation in the 1990s (precipitated by a BOP crisis), Indias exports have been consistently rising, covering 80.3% of its imports in 2002-03, up from 66.2% in 1990-91. Although India is still a net importer, since 1996-97, its overall BOP (including the capital account balance), has been positive, largely on account of increased FDI and deposits from NRIs; until this time, the overall balance was only occasionally positive on account of external assistance and commercial borrowings. As a result, Indias foreign currency reserves stood at $141bn in 2005-06. Indias recently liberalised FDI policy (2005) allows up to a 100% FDI stake inventures. Industrial policy reforms have significantly reduced industrial licensing requirements, removed restrictions on expansion and facilitated easy access to foreign technology and foreign dir ect investment FDI. History of FDI in China FDIs main source in China from 1950s had been Soviet Union. However, it was after 1978 that China began to open up itself to the rest of the world for FDI inflows. From the start of 1978 China witnessed its exit from its self-dependent strategies since Maos era with the country announcing a remarkable program to reform its economic system by opening itself up to the outside world. From the beginning of 1978, FDI in China became desirable and began to add in the development of the Chinese economy. In general, the development of FDI in China can be divided into following five stages. Experiment Stage (1979 1983) China started from an experimental approach, which they called crossing the river by feeling the stones under the water. FDI was permitted into China in a step-by-step manner. One key action of the first step was the establishment of four Special Economic Zones (SEZs), namely Shen Zhen, Shan Tou, Zhu Hai and Xia Men, in July 1981. These SEZs were chosen for the absorption and utilization of foreign Investment. These provided foreign investors with preferential treatment for their Businesses. As Chinas window to the world, these zones succeeded in attracting FDI. Meanwhile, China was putting up effort to complete its legislative system. First to come was, the Equity Joint Venture Law (the Law of Peoples Republic of China on Joint Ventures Using Chinese and Foreign Investment) that was enacted in July 1979. The legislation validated the existence of FDI in China and guaranteed the right and benefits of foreign investors. Second important policy taken at this stage included Regulation f or the Implementation of the Law of the Peoples Republic of china on Chinese -foreign Equity Joint Ventures (1983). Growth Stage (1984 1991) Until 1984 there were flaws in Chinas handling FDI. Chinas restraints on FDI outside the SEZs remained rigid. Laws and regulations limited foreign ownership. FDI projects often encountered a long approval process even though they provided sufficient materials and explanation. This was simplified gradually between 1983 and 1985. Following is the list of new laws and regulations at this stage year on year basis. Wholly Owned Subsidiaries (WOS) Law (1986) Provision for the FDI Encouragement (1986) Constitutional Status of Foreign invested Enterprises in Chinese Civil Law (1986) Adoption of Interim provision on guiding FDI (1987) Delegation on approval of selected FDI projects to more local governments (1988) Laws of cooperative joint ventures (1988) Revision of equity joint venture law (1990) Rules for implementation of WOS law (1990) Income tax law and its rules for implementation (1991) 1984 witnessed two historic activities. First was when Deng Xiaoping remarked that China needed to open wider instead of checking upon the opening process (Zheng, 1984). Second was when Chinese government announced the decision on reform of the economic structure, and called for the building of a socialist commodity economy by assigning a larger role to the market in the domestic economic. Besides SEZs, Chinese government took a further step to give FDI access to other parts of the country. Fourteen coastal cities were announced to be opened to the outside world. They are Dalian, Qinhuangdao, Tianjin, Yantai, Qingdao, Lianyungang, Nantong, Shanghai, Ningbo, Wenzhou, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Zhanjiang and Beihai. The local government from these cities could approve FDI projects with capital investment up to certain level. For example, Shanghai could approve all FDI projects under 30 million USD (Yuan, 2006). They were also given the right to spend foreign exchange yielded by local FDI for t heir own growth. The approval procedures for FDI projects were eased. The Law of Peoples Republic of China on Wholly Foreign-owned Enterprises (WFOEs) of 1986, was laid to protect the profits and interest of foreign investors. In addition to this series of other laws and regulations further relaxed Chinas restriction in promoting FDI with measures for enterprise autonomy, profit remittances, labour recruitment and land use. In December 1990, the central government promulgated Detailed Rules and Regulations for the Implementation of the Peoples Republic of China Concerning Joint Ventures with Chinese and Foreign Investment. The regulation aimed to encourage joint ventures that adopted sophisticated technology or equipments, saved energy and raw materials and upgraded products. Peak Stage (1992 1993) This stage has witnessed the rise of Shanghai as Chinas economic hub. The Chinese government wanted to develop Shanghai into an international hub for finance, economy and trade. Their intention was to carry out the experiment of new policies and apply successful practices within the rest of Shanghai and across the country. Shanghais location in Southeast China drew attention of Chinese governments in shifting emphasis to the area to avoid overly concentration of FDI. Hi-tech enterprises, established manufacturers and financial companies were encouraged to set up their China operation at Pudong with various preferential treatments from central and local government. With the implementation of a new framework for further opening up the economy, the Chinese government showed great effort to encourage FDI. A number of new Sectors were also opened up to foreign investors, including banking and insurance, accounting and information consultancy, wholesaling and retailing at the same time, go vernmental procedures were simplified in terms of FDI administration. The year of 1992 witnessed the remarkable growth of FDI in China. In the same year, the Chinese government announced its intention to adopt the strategy of socialist market economy and improve the economic framework for standard market Operations. Following are the series of laws and regulations related to market operations were passed during 1992 and 1993, which included: Adoption of Trade Union Law (1992) Company Law (1993) Provision regulations of value-added tax, consumption tax, business tax and Enterprise income tax (1993) Adjustment Stage (1994 2000) After 1994, the growth rate of FDI in China went down to a steady level from the relatively high rate in past two years, which indicated that a new stage had arrived. 1995s Provisional Guidelines for Foreign Investment Projects provided preferential treatment to various enterprises in various industries. The directory of the Guidelines categorized all the FDI projects into four types: encouraged, restricted, prohibited and permitted (Yuan, 2006). The projects in infrastructure or underdeveloped agriculture and with advanced technology or manufacturing under-supplied new equipment to satisfy market demand fell into the encouraged category. Those whose production exceeded domestic demand and those who engaged in the exploration of rare and valuable resources were put into restricted. The prohibited category included projects that would risk national security or public interest, or those endangering military facilities.. The last one is classified as permitted. Annual utilization of FDI reached to its peak in 1997 and 1998 but then moved downward in the following two years. Post-WTO Stage (2001 present) November 11, 2001, saw Chinas admission as an official member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), after a 15-year negotiation. It was after accession to WTO, China started to fulfil its obligation such as basic principles of non-discrimination, pro-trade and pro-competition. This historic event had significant Impact on FDI inflows to China. This gave incentives to more export-oriented FDI. Chinas export market becomes larger and more predictable. Also, Chinas domestic market attracts FDI in industries where there is large market potential. Usually, these industries used to be dominated by relatively inefficient state-owned enterprises, such as telecommunication, banking and insurance. Foreign investors, especially large multinational companies (MNCs), have now growing interest in these industries. Becoming a WTO member, China had to restructure its legal framework. This, in consequence, improves Chinas business environment and helps attract more foreign investment. Yuan (2006), in his literature has revealed, throughout the years, China has steadily reduced its industrial tariffs in a wide range of sectors. Foreign firms are granted direct trading rights for the first time, which means they can import and export themselves without going through a Chinese state-owned trading firm. Clearly, Chinas acquiring WTO membership boosts investors confidence the Chinese economy and its market and thus attracts more FDI inflows. FDIs: Critical Analysis FDIs in other countries are now been continuously studied. There are numerous factors and studies motivating this type of investment for the benefit of source and host countries. There has been a substantial change in policies and attitudes towards FDI on the part of most developing countries in recent years. Disbelief and suspicion of FDIs in the past now appears to have given place to a new found faith in its ability to encourage growth and development for the investing firm and host countries. This perception is due to number of factors: steep fall in alternative sources of finance such as bank credit in the wake of the debt crisis, the self-evident success of Asian countries like India and China, and growth in Knowledge and understanding of the nature and operations of multinational enterprises (Balasubramanyam Mahambare, 2004). In regards to stability aspect of FDI toward the growth of investing firm and host countries, empirical studies have found FDI to be more stable than ot her forms of capital (UNCTAD, 1998, World Investment Report, Geneva). Examination of a variety of capital flows in developing countries during East Asian financial crisis revealed FDI was more stable than other capital flows past studies analysis that FDI is the result of certain competitive advantage. Paul et al. (2002), revealed in their book; many developing countries like India favour FDI over other capital inflows and there is a substantial benefit that such investment benefit the host country and thereby attracting more foreign firms for investment as the benefits in this form of investment is both ways. Knowing the benefits of FDI in host countries would make the legislation system clear and simple and would enable foreign firm for investment based on long-term profits. Swamy (2000) in his book has done calculation the rate of return of FDI in India. His results revealed the rate of return on FDI in India higher than the rate of return obtained on global outward FDI. To quote from his studies, FDI Enterprises were able to earn relatively higher profit rates in India, despite higher level of taxation and tariffs etc. Thus the low level of FDI Inflows until the end of 1980s seems to have been caused restrictive policy environment rather than profitability considerations. Pradhan (2000) has scrutinised the various aspects of FDI from source as well as Host countries point of view, with a focus on the risk from the firms perspective and on the strategies to attract FDI to be adopted by host countries. His study thereby revealed that the higher rate of return for an MNC comes with FDI is, in fact, the result of existing market opportunities combined with the host countries policies towards FDI. Thereby, Indicating strong signals of overall growth of Host countries (developing) in conjunction with FDI and higher rate of return for MNCs. Lensink Morrissey (2001), literature suggests that FDI by MNCs is one of the major channels in providing LDCs (least developed countries) with access to advanced technologies and generating high revenue for MNCs involved in investment for them. The underlying theory differs illustrates the benefits of FDI for MNCs and host countries. The imitation channel is based on the view that domestic firms may become more Productive by imitating the more advanced technologies or managerial practices of Foreign firms for foreign firms and at the same time adding to GDP for their own country. Also, the competition channel emphasises that the entrance of more foreign firms from abroad intensifies competition in the domestic market, thereby encouraging domestic firms to become more efficient and productive by upgrading their technology base. The linkages channel stresses that foreign firms may relocate new technology to Domestic firms through transactions, and would develop buyer-seller relationship. This would necessities Training from the foreign firm to the domestic firm. Hence the training channel needs to be enforced on new technologies. This can only be adopted when the labour force feels comfortable to work with their foreign partner and when embraced works for the benefits of foreign firms as well. Beside these studies, in some of the literature the contribution of FDI to foreign firm and host countries economic growth has been debated quite extensively. Findings reveals that FDI has both benevolent and a dangerous impact. Empirical evidence that FDI generates positive spillovers for firms is mixed. Few studies have found positive spillover effects, few finds no effects and few even conclude that there are negative effects (see Aitken and Harrison, 1999). The conventional argument is that an inflow of FDI positively contributes as; it brings technology, know-how and management techniques. It integrate the operation of local firms into the networks of foreign investors, it helps to place local production on international markets and integrates the national economies into worldwide production and distribution systems. Hence, concluding that FDI can contribute positively and increase the export activity of the host economy (Adam 2002). On the other hand, some of the recent literat ure points to the role of FDI as a channel of international technology transfer. It can deliver rather controversial effects. Foreign firms can out-compete local producers, reduce local production capacities close down research and development units, break up traditional subcontractor relationships and substitute them with imported goods, and repatriate profits thus deteriorating the balance of payments position of the host economy. Sometimes, could lead to absolute shut-down of foreign firms when opposed by local people of host countries. For example Coca-Cola Company had shut down bottling plant in India during a community-led campaign that demanded the closure of the Coca-Cola bottling plant because of indiscriminate pollution as well as illegal occupatio

Statement of Philosophy of Education Essay -- My Philosophy of Educati

Statement of Philosophy of Education My philosophy of teaching and education in general is very broad at this stage in my career. I am sure that as I teach in future years, my philosophy of teaching will change as I gain experience. As for now though, the following paper will describe the way I feel about teaching, learning and education in general. First, I view learning as a journey the students take throughout their school careers and throughout life. I feel that on this journey, teachers are placed in the position to help guide these students to their destination, or at least help them on their way. This journey would include hurdles and obstacles that would be overcome and some that would be left for later teachers to try to help the students past. I know that as a teacher, it is important for me to help the students to truly understand concepts being taught that will help them in later mathematics classes and in their lives in the future. I also feel that a good basic tool for teachers to help provide students with that will enable them to be more prosperous in life is the concept of problem solving. This tool reaches far past mathematics. I believe that students are not just buckets that we, as teachers, are to pour knowledge into hoping that none leaks out. I do believe though that the teacher should r each for opportunities to help connect the content material to previous knowledge and experiences of the students. As for the teacher’s role in the students’ lives, I feel again that he/she should be a guide for the students in their journey through mathematics. I feel that the teacher should help the students in their problems in the content and also be creative in teach... ... the students’ lives. I know too many people who never feel that their life will amount to anything, and if I can affect just one life and make a difference in that one, I will be satisfied. I had many teachers in my school career, but I can honestly say that my mathematics teachers had the greatest affect on my life. I see this in my personal life and in the way I teach and feel that teaching math should be handled. One of my favorite statements about education is â€Å"Education is what survives when what has been learnt has been forgotten,† by B.F. Skinner. I feel that this is such a valid statement and one of the main reasons I feel that by teaching a child to truly learn and as they travel on their journey in life to pick up tools that will not only help them in their classes in school, but those that will help them be productive and happy adults.

Sir Isaac Newton Essays -- Biographies

Isaac Newton Isaac Newton was one of the greatest scientists of all time. He is best-known for his discovery of the law of universal gravitation and the laws of motion. Much of modern science is based on the understanding and use of his laws. Isaac Newton was born on Christmas Day, 1642, in the small English town of Woolsthorpe. His father, a farmer, died shortly before Isaac was born. When the boy was three years old, his mother remarried and moved to another town. Isaac stayed on at the farm in Woolsthorpe with his grandmother. After attending small country school, he was sent at the age of twelve to the Kings School in the near by town of Grantham. At first Isaac was a poor student. He cared little for school work, perferring to paint, make kites, write in notebooks, or invent toys. He made no friends. Silent and dreamy, he was at the bottom of his class. Oddly, it was a savage kick by a school bully that caused Newton's great mind to awaken. The mild, dreamy boy flew into a rage and beat the other boy thoroughly. Isaac determined to beat the bully in school work as well. Soon Isaac was at the head of his class. In 1656 Newton's stepfather died. His mother returned to Woolsthorpe to take care of the farm left by Newton's father. But she could not manage the farm by herself. Isaac was taken out of school and brought home to help her. As a farmer, Newton proved to be a dismal failure. He neglected the necessary chores and thought only of books to study and mechanical things to make. There are many stories about him at that time that show how absent minded he was becoming. One day while he was leading a horse, the animal slipped its bridle and ran away. ... ...ly called the Principia, after its Latin title. Many scientists think its the most important scientific book ever written. It contains Newton's famous three laws of motion. It also contained his law of universal gravitation. This law applies not only to heavenly bodies. It also explains why a baseball drops from your hand to the ground and why a particle of dust settles on a bookshelf. During later years Newton served his country in Parliament, as well as in other ways. In 1703 he was elected president of the Royal Society, and in 1705 he was knighted by Queen Anne. Isaac Newton died in 1727. He was burried in Westminster Abbey, among the great men of England. His statue stands today in the hall of Trinity College, Cambridge University. Bibliography: David C. knight. "isaac Newtons, Mastermind of modern Science" Groiler inc. Canada, 1969.

Solar Energy Essay -- Solar Energy Resources Essays

Solar Energy What do the bubonic plague in the 14th century, the influenza epidemic of the early 20th century and the spread of HIV/AIDS in the late 20th and early 21st centuries have in common? One answer, according to Joel B. Stronberg author of the American Solar Energy Society’s â€Å"Common Sense,† is that they have all been called pandemics. According to Merriam-Webster.com, a pandemic occurs over a wide geographic distribution and affects â€Å"an exceptionally high proportion of the population.† Joel B. Stronberg declares that we are currently facing another pandemic. This pandemic is the combination of the consequences of burning fossil fuels. The two major problems from burning fossil fuels are global warming and decreasing oil supplies. However, Joel notes that there is a difference between this pending pandemic and the pandemics previously mentioned. This pandemic can be prevented. Solar energy is a nondepletable resource that can help us avoid furthering global w arming and decrease our continued dependence on oil. Solar energy is, in the most rudimentary terms, energy from the sun. It can be converted into electricity and heat. Surprisingly, less than 0.1% of our heating, transportation and power energy come from direct sunlight. This is surprising because, according to www.johnbarrie.com, in one single second the sun gives off thirteen million times more energy than the amount of electricity used by the world in an entire year! As we learned during the in-class presentation, hydroelectric power produces about 100 kilowatts of energy. In contrast, about four thousand MEGAwatts of energy fall on the mere area of 0.3861 sq. mil/1 sq. km. The amount of energy that falls on this meager area is enough energy to heat and light ... ...rce to help better our world as a whole and improve our individual quality of life. Works Cited "Energy Kids Page." Solar Energy-Energy from the Sun. Oct 2004. Energy Information Administration. 20 Apr. 2005 <http://www.eia.doe.gov/kids/energyfacts/sources/renewable/solar.html>. "Glossary." John Barrie Associates Architects. 20 Apr. 2005 <http://www.johnbarrie.com/glossary.htm>. "Solar Energy Facts." Solar Energy Facts Answers. JC Solar Homes. 20 Apr. 2005 <http://www.jc-solarhomes.com/solar_energy_facts.htm>. "The Forum for Solar Energy." Solar Collectors: Different Types and Fields of Application. 09 2004. The Solar Server. 20 Apr. 2005 <http://www.solarserver.de/wissen/sonnenkollektoren-e.html>. Stronberg, Joel B. "A common Sense Solution." Solar Today. 18 Apr. 2005 <http://www.solartoday.org/2005/march_april05/Common_Sense.htm>. Solar Energy Essay -- Solar Energy Resources Essays Solar Energy What do the bubonic plague in the 14th century, the influenza epidemic of the early 20th century and the spread of HIV/AIDS in the late 20th and early 21st centuries have in common? One answer, according to Joel B. Stronberg author of the American Solar Energy Society’s â€Å"Common Sense,† is that they have all been called pandemics. According to Merriam-Webster.com, a pandemic occurs over a wide geographic distribution and affects â€Å"an exceptionally high proportion of the population.† Joel B. Stronberg declares that we are currently facing another pandemic. This pandemic is the combination of the consequences of burning fossil fuels. The two major problems from burning fossil fuels are global warming and decreasing oil supplies. However, Joel notes that there is a difference between this pending pandemic and the pandemics previously mentioned. This pandemic can be prevented. Solar energy is a nondepletable resource that can help us avoid furthering global w arming and decrease our continued dependence on oil. Solar energy is, in the most rudimentary terms, energy from the sun. It can be converted into electricity and heat. Surprisingly, less than 0.1% of our heating, transportation and power energy come from direct sunlight. This is surprising because, according to www.johnbarrie.com, in one single second the sun gives off thirteen million times more energy than the amount of electricity used by the world in an entire year! As we learned during the in-class presentation, hydroelectric power produces about 100 kilowatts of energy. In contrast, about four thousand MEGAwatts of energy fall on the mere area of 0.3861 sq. mil/1 sq. km. The amount of energy that falls on this meager area is enough energy to heat and light ... ...rce to help better our world as a whole and improve our individual quality of life. Works Cited "Energy Kids Page." Solar Energy-Energy from the Sun. Oct 2004. Energy Information Administration. 20 Apr. 2005 <http://www.eia.doe.gov/kids/energyfacts/sources/renewable/solar.html>. "Glossary." John Barrie Associates Architects. 20 Apr. 2005 <http://www.johnbarrie.com/glossary.htm>. "Solar Energy Facts." Solar Energy Facts Answers. JC Solar Homes. 20 Apr. 2005 <http://www.jc-solarhomes.com/solar_energy_facts.htm>. "The Forum for Solar Energy." Solar Collectors: Different Types and Fields of Application. 09 2004. The Solar Server. 20 Apr. 2005 <http://www.solarserver.de/wissen/sonnenkollektoren-e.html>. Stronberg, Joel B. "A common Sense Solution." Solar Today. 18 Apr. 2005 <http://www.solartoday.org/2005/march_april05/Common_Sense.htm>.