This isn't a biogrphy, neither is it a novel, naturally, may be a Essay

This isn't a biogrphy, neither is it a novel, naturally, may be a cross between literature, sociology, and history (Annie Ernaux, a woman's story). Does this de - Essay Example The author depicts the raw emotion of writing about the events surrounding her mother and the loss of her mother, â€Å"I shall continue to write about my mother. She is the only woman who really meant something to me and she had been suffering from senile dementia for two years†(pg. 11). It is clear that the writing of her mother is therapeutic for Annie and she is doing so to some to terms with not only the death of her mother but also her relationship with her mother which was sometimes rocky. In the act of writing about her mother, Annie Emaux is keeping her alive to not only herself (Annie) but to others who will read this piece. In my opinion, it would truly be almost impossible to fabricate or fictionalize these accounts of the loss of a parent unless one had endured it first hand. If the author had wanted to fictionalize this, she most likely would have told the story from a third person perspective. Though sad, this piece is truly one that many mothers and daughters can relate to. It is not uncommon for one to lose a parent and in hind site, try to permanently categorize that parent as either a good parent or maybe a not so good parent, as Annie struggled with. It is through the grieving process that Annie comes to terms with her mother as a parent and as an individual. In conclusion, this piece was most likely not only rather accurate to the author and her memory of her mother, but also to many women who read this piece and identify with the mother-daughter relationship experienced by Annie and her mother.

The African-American Artists Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The African-American Artists - Essay Example I firmly believe that the success of a song or musical composition does not entirely depend on the ethnic, racial or cultural background and orientation of the artist. Other factors contribute to the success of a musical composition, including the integrated components of musical elements such as the harmony, pitch, lyrics, melody, and rhythm, among others. Music, interpreted by a particular artist, regardless of race or other personal differences in gender or age, would have found equal success with the right timing, right musical score, choice of instruments, vocals and the expressive interpretation of the artist that elicited the appropriate appeal of the target audience. There are different instances when songs have been initially recorded by one artist and have been interpreted by another. For instance, the song of Josh Groban entitled â€Å"You Raise Me Up† was popularly known to have been recorded by various artists even before it rose to fame when Josh Groban recorded and sang it. The reasons why there are versions that generated significant popularity and success more than others who previously recorded them could range from the timing of these songs being recorded which perfectly match the sentiments and appeals of the audience; the personality of the singer or artist who sang and interpreted the song (where it could be observed that there are a particular appeal and charisma that was exemplified – more than what the other artists who previously recorded them delivered); the strategies used for promoting the songs; and there could be some changes in some musical elements, like the tempo, rhythm, and musical instruments or accompan ying background that made a particular musical interpretation more successful than others.

Chinas Environmental Issues Essay Example for Free

Chinas Environmental Issues Essay China has many environmental issues, severely affecting its biophysical environment as well as human health. Rapid industrialization as well as lax environmental oversight have contributed to the problems. The Chinese government has acknowledged the problems and made various responses, resulting in some improvements, but the responses have been criticized as inadequate. As of 2012 there is increased citizen activism regarding government decisions which are perceived as being environmentally damaging. (Wikipedia) As China’s economic growth continues to blossom in 2007, with the countries GDP hitting 11. 4%, alongside China gets hit by an environmental crisis. Sixteen of the worlds twenty most polluted cities are in China. Experts say the Chinese government has made serious efforts to clean up and achieved many of the bid commitments. Beijing’s pledge to host a Green Olympics in the summer of 2008 signaled the countrys willingness to address its environmental problems for example. However, an environmentally sustainable growth rate remains a serious challenge for the country. (http://www.cfr.org/china/chinas-environmental-crisis/p12608) China’s major environmental issues: * Water- China suffers from water shortage and water pollution. About one-third of Chinas population lacks access to clean drinking water. s part of its effort to harness the nations water supply, China has a large dam-building program with over twenty-five thousand dams nationwide–more than any other nation. The dam projects are not only a high cost in terms of money, but also in farmland loss, ecological damage, and forced migration of millions of people, says the Woodrow Wilson Centers Jennifer L. Turner, director of its China Environment Forum, in a report for the Jamestown Foundation. * Land- Desertification in China leads to the loss of about 5,800 square miles of grasslands every year, an area roughly the size of Connecticut. The Worldwatch Institute, an environmental watchdog and research organization, reports that excessive farm cultivation, particularly overgrazing, is one of the leading causes of desertification. As the deforestation grows, so do the number of sandstorms; a hundred were expected between 2000 and 2009. Desertification also contributes to Chinas air pollution problems, with increasing dust causing a third of Chinas air pollution. * Greenhouse gases- In 2008, China surpassed the United States as the largest global emitter of greenhouse gases by volume. (Not per capita however) The increase in Chinas emissions is primarily due to the countrys reliance on coal, which accounts for over two-thirds of its energy consumption, contributing to sulfur dioxide emissions causing acid rain.

Coca Cola New Product Analysis

Coca Cola New Product Analysis The Coca-Cola Companys core undertaking is to benefit and refresh everyone it reaches. Founded in 1886, we are the worlds leading manufacturer, marketer, and distributor of non-alcoholic beverage concentrates and syrups, which are used to produce nearly 400 beverage brands that make up for our wide portfolio. Our corporate headquarters are established in Atlanta, and we are holding local operations in over 200 countries around the world. Our activities cover all sectors of the beverage industry. We are the second leading player in functional and Asian specialty drinks, while ranking number one in value for the ready-to-drink tea sector (ref.1, p.1). description of the new product, strategic role in the future position of the company Bubble Buzz will be a bottled beverage and will be positioned as the only ready-to-drink Bubble Tea product available on the market. The beverage will have a green tea base with enhanced fruit flavors (passion fruit, strawberry and lime) as well as tapioca pearls. It will bring an entirely unique drinking experience to its consumers. It will present itself as a funky and unusual alternative to traditional tea while providing the great taste of authentic fruit juice in an attractive and convenient packaging. The strategic role of Bubble Buzz for The Coca-Cola Company is centered around three objectives: To stay at the forefront as the market leader in innovative product introductions and successful product launches; To strengthen and satisfy the needs of the more adventurous Generation Y consumers with a new eye-catching and functional product. To become the market leader in the functional drinks segment with increased market shares. INDUSTRY ANALYSIS Consumption: The sales volume for the functional drinks segment (ref. D2) in UK has reached $342.2 millions in 2004 for a volume of 125.9 million liters (ref.2). This product segment has shown a steady growth since 1999: an increase of 13.5% over a period of 6 years (Appendix A). The consumption rate per capita in 2004 has reached 3.94 liters, which represents a 4.0% increase compared to 1999 .The growth of this particular market is largely due to a slow shift in consumer trends. Trends: Through the early 1960s, soft drinks were synonymous with colas in the mind of consumers. In the 1980s and 1990s, however, other beverages (from bottled water to tea) became more popular. Coca-Cola and Pepsi responded by expanding their offerings through alliances (e.g. Coke Nestea) and acquisitions (e.g. Coke Minute Maid), but also by focusing efforts on portfolio diversification. Today, while the soft drink industrys value has increased in 2004, the volume sales of carbonated soft drinks has declined due to a large proportion of consumers who are opting for the trend towards healthier alternatives in the functional drink segment (energy drinks, smoothies, milk juice drinks, sports drinks) as well as bottled juices and water .Companies have been actively engaged in new product developments in order to counter the growing concerns about negative health impacts of high-fructose drinks, but also to increase the demand in a market where product offerings are quickly maturing .New flavor introductions and health-conscious formulations have been launched in an attempt to offset the decline in carbonated soft drink sales .The functional market is expected to show sustained growth and consumer interest in the future years as cons umption shifts to trendier, healthier and more sophisticated products . SWOT ANALYSIS (Strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats) Strengths Brand strength Effective stride in new markets Results of operations Strong existing distribution channels Weaknesses Reliant upon line extensions Reliant upon particular carbonated drinks Brand dilution Entrance into difficult non-core categories Saturation of carbonated soft drink segment Opportunities New product introductions Brand is attractive to global partners Strong competition Threats Potential health issues Free trade STRENGTHS Brand strength The Coca-Cola Company is the largest manufacturer, distributor and marketer of nonalcoholic beverage concentrates and syrups in the world. The Coca-Cola brand is unarguably one of the most recognizable brands in the 200 countries where it sells its products. The strong brand name is one of the basis for the companys competitive advantage on several of its core markets. Effective strides in new markets Coca-Cola has partnered with several companies (such as the joint venture with Nestlà ©) in order to increase the ability to react to demands and changes in the markets of iced tea, coffee and juices. The developing markets are more complex than the carbonated soft drinks. Results of operations In 2004, net-operating revenues totaled approximately $21.9 billion, an 8% increase from 2002. Gross profit totaled $14.3 billion in 2004. The company generated $5,968 million from its operating activities and re-invests heavily into its business. The ability to generate significant cash flows is one of the its key strengths (ref.16). Strong existing distribution channels Coca-Cola has operations worldwide and is well established in its distribution channels (such as store retailers or vending machines). Therefore, a new product launch can typically rely on the existing distribution system in order to reach the majority of its target market while requiring no major supply / delivery developments. WEAKNESSES Relying upon line extensions Coca-Cola is relying on brand extensions increase sales in specific lines, particularly its long-time carbonated soft drink products (i.e. the introduction of Vanilla Coke helped maintain sales for the core Cola beverages). However, there is a strong risk of cannibalizing existing sales in the long term (for example, Bubble Tea might deter on sales for iced tea). Reliant upon particular carbonated drinks The long-time presence of Coca-Colas Coke beverage has established this particular line as a flagship product. While the core Coke products bring a solid base of sales and loyalty to the company, consumers expectations also become more and more anchored and single-lined, taking away freedom in the areas of line diversification and product modifications (taste, packaging, price). Brand dilution The tremendous amount of existing brands and new product being introduced by the company could diminish the value and differentiating strength of each product that is being manufactured. Entrance into difficult non-core categories The Coca-Cola Company is a truly global multinational business giant. While some categories of products are distributed in many areas of the globe (Coke, Powerade, etc.), geographical needs already require that these global brands are heavily adapted to their target region. Furthermore, many smaller and diversified product lines are more or less popular in one particular region over another. Therefore, the process of diversifying the production and marketing each product involves costly investments. These capital requirements typically increase as the product becomes heavily focused (for example, since the Coca-Cola brand is highly recognizable worldwide, marketing a bottle of Coke in Japan would be less difficult than marketing a bottle of Qoo in that same country Qoo being a lesser-known non-carbonated drink which was one of Coca-Colas newest brand introduction in 1999). Saturation of carbonated soft drink segment Due to the countless number of brands available on the market, it becomes increasingly difficult in the soft drinks segment to innovate and create new products that genuinely stand out from their competition. And as we have seen, an analysis of the industry has shown that growth in the soft drinks market becomes difficult and challenging when the conditions and consumer trends cause a market demand that stays stagnant. OPPORTUNITIES New product introductions The functional drinks market is one that particularly allows more innovation opportunities and gives greater freedom for creativity in the design, production, manufacturing, distribution, promotion and retailing choices and processes. Brand is attractive to global partners Because of the companys size (including value, brand name and operating revenues) and wide portfolio base, Coca-Cola enjoys a strong purchasing power over its suppliers, and also attracts large partnerships with various levels of consumer reach (e.g. Burger King, movie studio promotions, sponsorship agreements, etc.). Existing brand awareness also provides an international playing field for powerful marketing strategies. THREATS Strong competition Coca-Cola is competing in a global market that is characterized by an oligopoly between several (but few in numbers) competitors. The fight for market shares and sales in crowded markets becomes a complex one. Potential health issues The current trend of consumer and consumers groups awareness towards goods and services is both beneficial and threatening for companies in the food and beverages industry. Over the last few years, concerns over health issues have risen in the media through an expanded and ever-growing network of knowledge outputs (journals, TV channels, internet and so on). The move of the younger generation towards a healthier lifestyle call for careful planning and decision-making in new product developments. Large companies can also easily become the target of consumers apprehension. Free trade In an era of globalization, large international competitors can come out with comparative advantages (the constant fight to remain the first mover and market leader in a long-term spectrum). Issues arise when dealing with price competition and economic growth. Trade organizations are also faced with public pressure which can disrupt operations in one or more areas of the company. TARGET MARKET Segment identification: RTD (Ready-to-drink) bottled Bubble Tea, to be established within the Functional Drinks sector Segment needs: The product will cater to both physiological needs (hydrating and nutritional value) and social needs (perception of a social, fun drink with a sense of belonging within peer consumer groups) (ref.11, p.127). Segment trends: The current trends include a shift away from junk foods and carbonated drinks, a growing interest for healthier / beneficial products for the mind and body (ref. 10), the trend towards the availability of on-the-go products for those with an active lifestyle, as well as the trend for personalization through customization (or for beverages, through variety-seeking in a wide introduction of flavours ref.6). Segment growth potential: Statistical reports anticipate a segment growth of 1.72% over the next 9 years (2015) for the 10-29 years old subsets (ref.12). Refer to Appendix E. Size of the segment (population): 8,688,300 (329,600 L). Refer to Appendix E. Positioning strategy: The only RTD bottled bubble tea available. Funky eye-catching bottle, functional packaging, premium-priced, cool, new and unusual, unique drinking experience, aspects of play (tapioca pearls, oversized colored straw), variety of flavors, sweet, refreshing, for hip young people, healthier alternative to heavy-sugar drinks. The objectives of the marketing plan are strategically centered around 3 criteria: to create a strong consumer awareness towards a completely new bubble tea product from Coca-Cola, to establish a wide brand recognition through the capture of market shares in the functional drinks segment, and to become the top market leader in that particular segment within the forecasted sales figures. PRODUCT STRATEGY The core Bubble Tea beverage in a pre-bottled, ready-to-drink format. The actual product Packaging and labeling: see figure below Branding: colorful, aspect of play, round shaped, prominent Bubble Buzz logo written in modern font, catchphrases such as Think outside the Bubble and Get Your Buzz. Trade name: Bubble Buzzà ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢, a Coca-Cola product Brand personality: energy, funky, cool, functional, original, funny, healthy, etc. Brand equity: Coca-Cola provides a quality, consistent, innovative and accessible soft drink reputation. Augmented product Nutritional information, Status (social drink), Features promoting the website, Health benefit of a green tea base (ref.17) Marketing considerations Product life cycle: Bubble Buzz is a low-learning product. With a strong marketing campaign, sales [will] begin immediately and the benefits of the purchase are readily understood (ref.11, p.301). Since Bubble Buzz is prone to product imitation, Coca-Colas strategy is to broaden distribution quickly, which is currently feasible thanks to the companys high manufacturing capacity. Product class: Food beverage à ¯Ã†â€™Ã‚   Soft Drinks à ¯Ã†â€™Ã‚   Functional Drinks (refer to Appendix D2 for a break-down of the functional drinks market). Bubble Buzz follows the practice of product modification (ref.11, p.304): Coca-Cola is introducing an existing beverage (bubble tea) but redefines the drink with a new, more convenient package. Bubble Tea will now become a widely available drink in multiple retailing (distribution) channels. PRICE STRATEGY The price strategy that will be undertaken should consider the following aspects: Consumer demand The product lifecycle Potential substitutes Customer demand Customer demand is a crucial factor which is driven by tastes, income and availability of others similar products at a different price (mentioned later in the potential substitutes section). For a lot of consumers, value and price are highly related: the higher the price, the higher the value. Consequently, Coca-Colas intention to position Bubble Buzz as a unique, innovative and attractive product gives it a certain control over Bubble Buzz price. To be able to implement higher pricing though, the minimization of the non-monetary costs to customers should also be include along with awareness of the product (notably by advertising) and value (benefits) . The product lifecycle The company should take advantage also to the fact that the newer the product and the earlier in its lifecycle the higher the price can usually be. It ensures a high profit margin as the early adopters buy the product and the firm seeks to recoup development costs quickly and it also brings a certain prestige to the product. Potential substitutes Coca-Cola is constrained by the monopolistic market in which it competes. The main characteristic however is product differentiation. Other constraints (See Appendix M) PROMOTION STRATEGY Objectives: To initiate strong awareness about the launch of Bubble Buzz throughout Generation Y (10-29 years old) consumers as well as their parents. To win market shares over our top functional drinks competitor, PepsiCo. Message: The promotional outputs will convey the clear message that Bubble Buzz is a healthy drink for sporty and young people who simply enjoy taking care of their body and life. Concepts: Think outside the bubble: Be Bold, Be Original, Be Different, Be Yourself. A good spirit in a good body. For the out-of-the-ordinary individuals who like to challenge themselves. Media selection: Before choosing the appropriate medias, it is important to note that Generation Y consumers only give partial attention to media. However, they can be reached through integrated programs. They are typically using more than one communication media at a time; a behaviour that is often called multitasking. This group of consumers doesnt give its full attention to one single message, but rather uses continuous partial attention to scan the media. Marketers can still communicate with Generation Y by using a variety of targeted promotional tools. Another important tactic to reach our target market is through Viral or Buzz marketing, which Coca-Cola will heavily use in this campaign (campus, contests). Advertising: Refer to APPENDIX H for detailed explanations Output Examples Television MTV, Much Music, VrakTV, YTV Radio MIX96, CKOI 96.9, 94.7 FM, Universities Magazines For girls: Cosmo, Elle For boys: Sports Illustrated (or Kids edition) Internet Banners on select websites (gaming, sports, etc.) Official promotional website: www.BubbleBuzz.ca Outdoors Billboards and prints in select areas including: Campuses, transportation (bus, metro, stations) Tourist areas in high seasonal periods Outskirts of key cities in geographical reach Others Not relevant Personal selling Direct contact with retailers, sales kit strategies to be explained later in the text. Public relations Stands or special displays and events in schools, malls, sports events (i.e. 2008 Beijing Summer Olympic Games), sponsorship activities Publicity Conferences, press releases (print and online), buzz marketing through TV coverage Promotional Mix: Consumer oriented: Contests: Win another Bubble Buzz flavour, Uncover a secret code underneath the bottle cap and win sporting goods and electronics by logging on the website, Win a trip for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. (Arguments: It will increase consumer purchases and encourage consumer involvement with the product). Samples: distributed in supermarkets, school/universities. Samples are a way to avoid product resistance since people are not used to find bubbles in their drinks. Arguments: It will encourage new product purchases and it represents low risk for consumers since they get it for free. They have nothing to loose by trying it. Point-of-purchase: in supermarkets (to reach the parents of generation Y). Arguments: It is also a mean to increase product trial and provides a good product visibility. Others: In subsequent years, engage in product placement in TV shows or movies. Trade oriented: Allowances and discounts: case allowance (Arguments: The free goods approach will be used so it can encourage retailers to buy more of the product to get a certain amount for free). Cooperative advertising: to encourage retailers to buy our product and to maintain our high level of advertisement that consumers expect from Coca-Cola. Other considerations: Scheduling of the advertising: Pulse scheduling (promotional presence year-round, but emphasized and intensified before and during summer). IMC (integrated marketing communication) Target Audience: Intermediary: personal selling will be more often used Ultimate consumer: Coca-Cola will use more of mass media because the amount of potential buyers is large. PLACE (DISTRIBUTION STRATEGY) Bubble Buzz will be distributed through these channels: supermarkets, convenience stores, independent food stores, discount stores, multiple grocers, vending machines, direct sales. China is the target country were going to expand our product. Reasons: With a total population of 1,313,015,000 in the end of 2005 and 327,714,000 in our target market (age 10 to 25 years old), compared with the total population of Canada304,453 million, there definitely is a great potential worth to work on. absolute expenditure on food and non-alcoholic beverages is expected to increase from 1,777 billion in 2005 to 2,154 billion in 2010 (though the proportion of consumer expenditure on this part is decreasing from 28.39% to 25.75% ) Soft drinks industry is one of the fast growing industries in China, especially fruit/vegetable juice, RTD tea, and Asian speciality drinks and bottled water have shown a sharp increase during 1998 to 2003. Bubble tea was originated in Taiwan. Soon after its introduction in China, it became one of the most popular beverages sold in tea stores on the streets due to the similar taste and similar cultural background. So, it is a good chance for us to enter into this market. Since we are the top sponsor for the upcoming Beijing Olympic in 2008. With more opportunities to expose to the public, it is going to benefit our sale there. Our entry-strategy for entering China is through licensing. Reasons: We have already provided licenses for manufacturing our products in China (licensing the bottlers and supply them with our syrup required for producing). Therefore, added in one or two more products in our production chain would not be that difficult. It is relatively low risk when compared with direct investment there. It is low cost to export our new products there since we can maintain lower labour cost and lower material cost if we produce our products locally, especially in China. Changes to be made: Price: Price sold in China is going to change to accommodate the local desire. As we set our price sold in Canada $2.00. Compared to the price sold in the bubble tea store ($ 3.50), it is about 57.14%. So, with the information we gathered from the tea store in China  [1]  , the price sold there would be 57.14% of what sold in the tea store$12 Yuen in China currency. Then, it would be around $7 Yuen, about CAD$1  [2]  . Naming the product: In order to be recognized and accepted more easily for the local market, we need not only translate our product name but also make sure theres not hidden unintended meaning that would damage our product. Develop other flavours that would attract the local market: Since milk based bubble tea sell better in China, we will add in this product line. Also, we will avoid using too many artificial colors as they are not appreciated as much as in Canada. Moreover, people in China are becoming more and more health concerned, especially the amount of sugar and additives added in the drinks. We will make some changes in the ingredients used to appeal the local market, i.e. less sugary drinks. Promotion: In contrast to the radio ads in Canada, we will use more TV and Web advertisement there due to the highly exposed environment in China. Also, we will put more emphasis on the ads on the public transportation such as underground/subway system and bus service due to the more frequent use of the public transport service there. Also, since the outdoor display screen is quite popular in big cities, we will also take advantage of it

Rediscovery of the Voice in Charlotte Brontes Jane Eyre Essay

Jane Eyre:   Rediscovery of the Voice Jane has endured hell. Indeed, most of this novel becomes a test of what she can endure. Helen Burns and Miss Temple teach Jane the British stiff upper lip and saintly patience. Then Jane, star pupil that she is, exemplifies the stoicism, while surviving indignity upon indignity. Jane’s soul hunkers down deep inside her body and waits for the shelling to stop. Only at Moor’s End, where she teaches and grows, does her soul come out. She stops enduring and begins living. Jane begins to become an â€Å"I† in her 19th year. In the sentence, â€Å"Reader, I married him.† Jane makes clear who is in charge of her life and her marriage; she is. That â€Å"I† stands resolutely as the subject of the sentence commanding the verb and attaching itself to the object, â€Å"him.† She is no longer passive, waiting and sitting for Rochester’s attention. Rather, she goes out and gets him. She has gone a long way from the beginning of the novel. At Gateshead, Jane tries to direct her life. Her little â€Å"I† scolds Mrs. Reed and chastises John. Like the later Jane, she knows... Rediscovery of the Voice in Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre Essay Jane Eyre:   Rediscovery of the Voice Jane has endured hell. Indeed, most of this novel becomes a test of what she can endure. Helen Burns and Miss Temple teach Jane the British stiff upper lip and saintly patience. Then Jane, star pupil that she is, exemplifies the stoicism, while surviving indignity upon indignity. Jane’s soul hunkers down deep inside her body and waits for the shelling to stop. Only at Moor’s End, where she teaches and grows, does her soul come out. She stops enduring and begins living. Jane begins to become an â€Å"I† in her 19th year. In the sentence, â€Å"Reader, I married him.† Jane makes clear who is in charge of her life and her marriage; she is. That â€Å"I† stands resolutely as the subject of the sentence commanding the verb and attaching itself to the object, â€Å"him.† She is no longer passive, waiting and sitting for Rochester’s attention. Rather, she goes out and gets him. She has gone a long way from the beginning of the novel. At Gateshead, Jane tries to direct her life. Her little â€Å"I† scolds Mrs. Reed and chastises John. Like the later Jane, she knows...

Key Elements of Successful Leadership Essay -- servant leadership chri

Key Elements of Successful Leadership John Quincy Adams provided one of my favorite quotes on leadership; â€Å"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.† In its most basic form leadership refers to influence. Though leaders often help us to accomplish more, poor leadership can also be the source of extreme frustration. The importance of good leadership is apparent on a college campus. Many organizations run smoothly and efficiently while others are mired in chaos and confusion; the difference is leadership. The college setting provides many opportunities for the development of leadership expertise. I believe three common factors exist in all successful leadership; a focus on people, clear communication, and character. A good leader understands that he or she cannot accomplish anything without the support of followers. The best way to develop this support is by showing love, dignity, and respect to the people being led. The secular manager can apply the principles of this model, but only a Christian can understand the reasoning behind it. A proper perspective recognizes that â€Å"all people have inherent value by virtue of being created in the image of God, and thus [have] an inherent right to develop to their fullest potential.† (Hind, 20) Instead of using people in order to accomplish goals, Christian leaders should accomplish goals in order to develop people. I often get involved in leadership roles for self-promotion and increased status. However, the Scriptural model of leadership is much different. Jesus is the ultimate example of what is oft labeled servant leadership. Servant leadership is the submission of the leader’s ego and will in order to meet... ...rinciples in the pursuit of Christlike leadership. Above all I must realize that leadership is not about personal glory, but it is about the mission that God has given me, and the people that I am responsible to lead. Works Cited: Brown, Bill â€Å"Three Perspectives on Leadership† 4/16/2004 Speech given to Organizational Leadership class Dubrin, Andrew J. Leadership: Research Findings, Practice and Skills 2nd Edition Houghton Mifflin Company, Princton, NJ, 1998 Hind, James F. The Heart & Soul of Effective Management (1989) Victor Books, Wheaton, Ill. Lewis, Jone Johnson â€Å"Leadership Quotes†  © 1995-2003 http://www.wisdomquotes.com/cat_leadership.html Maxwell, John C. The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader (1999) Thomas Nelson Publishers, New York, NY Swindoll, Charles R. Hand Me Another Brick (1978) Thomas Nelson Publishers, New York, NY

Ballard Test

The Ballard test is a scale used to estimate the gestational age of a newborn infant. The test evaluates the neuromuscular and physical maturity of an infant. There are six different areas of neuromuscular maturity that are rated. Seven different areas of physical maturity are rated based on observation of the infant. Gestational age is the measure of time an infant spends growing in the womb before birth.It’s an important factor to determine because it can be an indicator of any potential problems that the newborn might develop. Gestational age can also reveal whether or not it was a healthy pregnancy.Assessing Neurological Features In order to assess the newborn’s neurological features the infant should be awake, not crying and lying on her back. You then score the infants posture based on your observation of free movement of the limbs. The following features are scored based on your observation when you manipulate the limbs: square window, arm recoil, popliteal angle , scarf sign and heel to ear. Assessing External Features The external features are scored based on your observation of the infant. These external features include: skin, lanugo, plantar creases, breast, ear, genitalia.Scoring External and neurological features are rated based on a score of zero to four. When scoring you should observe both sides of the infant and half scores can be used. All the scores are then added up for a final score. The final score is then compared to a table which gives the approximate gestational age. If the final score is within two weeks of the mother’s dates, then her dates are acceptable. If the dates are over or under two weeks of the score then the mother’s dates should be deemed incorrect and you should accept the gestational age based on the Ballard score.Besides the Ballard test, you can look for observable clinical signs to help determine whether the infant is full-term or pre-term. You should observe such things as sucking ability, flexing of arms and legs, whether or not you can see the veins under the skin, development of the nipple and breast bud, descended testes and covered labia minora. The weight and head circumference of the infant should also be taken into consideration. Learning Objectives †¢ The first learning objective is to describe the Ballard scales used in assessing the newborn.†¢ The second learning objective is to define the purposes of the scales. †¢ The third learning objective is to explain the importance of the newborn’s Ballard scores. †¢ The fourth learning objective is to describe normal and abnormal gestational age relative to the weight of the newborn. Definitions †¢ The first definition of the Ballard test is to determine normal and abnormal features of a newborn. †¢ The second definition of the Ballard test is to determine normal neurological responses of a newborn.†¢ The third definition of the Ballard test is to discern normal physiologic al features of a newborn. †¢ The fourth definition of the Ballard test is to determine the gestational age of the newborn and the correlation between the gestational age and the weight of the newborn. Teaching Methodology †¢ A prior knowledge of embryology and fetal physiology is helpful. A basic knowledge of antepartum and intrapartum care is necessary. As well as familiarity with maternal screening tests and common maternal complications that may arise.†¢ Develop questions to be asked in order to gather information and history related to pregnancy, labor and delivery. †¢ List the key elements of the physical assessment of a newborn. †¢ Discuss how all of these elements in conjunction with the Ballard test can determine the gestational age of the newborn. †¢ Identify the important indicators of gestational maturity and immaturity. †¢ Discuss the effects that gestational age has on a newborn. †¢ Discuss the transition of the newborn from the w omb into the environment.A Nursing diagnosis or NANDA †¢ Actual diagnosis – Ineffective airway clearance related to decreased energy as manifested by an ineffective cough. †¢ Risk diagnosis – Risk for injury related to altered mobility and disorientation. †¢ Possible diagnosis – Possible fluid volume deficit related to frequent vomiting for three days as manifested by increased pulse rate. †¢ Syndrome diagnosis – Rape-trauma syndrome related to anxiety about potential health problems as manifested by anger, genitourinary discomfort, and sleep pattern disturbance.†¢ Wellness diagnosis – Potential for enhanced organized infant behavior, related to prematurity and as manifested by response to visual and auditory stimuli. ( (Nanda Nursing Diagnosis) Works Cited â€Å"Assessing The Gestational Age. † 2005. Newborn Care. 14 October 2008 . Hull, J. W. â€Å"Ballard scale. † 1996-2008 . drhull. com. 14 October 2008 . â€Å"Nanda Nursing Diagnosis. † 2007. Right Health. 16 October 2008 .