Theres a Gender Pay Gap in Kids Allowances and Parents Are To Blame Essay

Theres a Gender Pay Gap in Kids Allowances and Parents Are To Blame - Essay Example The way parents bring up their children has a direct effect on the future choices being made by children pertaining to their choices of work and work-related activities. Parents are responsible for directing children mindset to value professions like law, Medicine among others and devalue others such as house chores and teaching. The majority of the gap seen in the pay between men and women in the society comes from the occupational differences and not the gender role differences (Eliana). The pay gap clearly demonstrates to the girls that the kind of household work that they do does not qualify in the level of works that need to be rewarded. This is why when girls grow up into womanhood, they tend to spend most of their times on the work that is unpaid such as household chores. In contrast to women, men only try to find more time to relax themselves out . Normally, girls do two more hours of daily chores when compared to boys. On the other hand, boys do spend much of their time, twice as much as the girls, in playing. Despite this hard work shown by the girls, boys are likely to be paid for the chores that they do. A similar research done by the junior achievement USA indicates that seventy percent of all boys are more likely to get allowance as compared to a small figure of sixty percent of girls, who are likely to receive allowances. According to Sandberg and Neil â€Å"Lean in: women, work and the will to lead â€Å"; gender pay difference is also a result of the gap in leadership ambition. In many working environmental, men are observed to be more ambitious to achieving senior jobs compared to their female counterparts. A 2012 Mc Kinsey survey found out only eighteen percent of women in a working environment aspire for the senior jobs that are high paying compared to thirty-six percent of the men population in the same environment (Sandberg and Nell, 13). It is no doubt that women do possess equal skills to

What is meant by technological determinism Please evaluate Essay

Technological Determinism - Essay Example However, an understanding of technological determinism will be required in order to prove this argument. In addition, the analysis of various concepts of technological determinism will be required so that the role of technology in facilitating the modern social networks and communication can be achieved. The main question of the essay: Is it true that technology is the cause of the changes in the modern society in regards to the socialization process within online communities as argued by technological determinists?  Ã‚  In order to answer the above question, various journal sources of information on the topic will be used within the main essay. According to Hartman (2007), the definition of technological determinism and the meaning of this phrase go beyond faster computing and technological processes. This article is a credible material that will be used to achieve an accurate definition of the term technological determinism. Using this article the various concepts which relate to this phrase will also is described so that a basis for its analysis can be set. The theoretical framework surrounding technological determinism will also be analyzed within the main essay. This will involve an evaluation of opposing theories such as Moore’s law and Marxism in relation technological determinism so that different understanding of the role of technology in social change can be ascertained. In describing and analyzing the theoretical aspects which describe technological determinism, articles by Sherman (2008) and Ceruzzi (2007) will be referred to in the main essay. Sherman (2008) will allow an understanding of technological determinism from the Marxism point of view.   On the other hand, Ceruzzi (2007) in his article will enable a clear understanding of technological determinism in line with the advances in technology such as an increased computer processing speeds and its use within social networks.   

S6W8Paper2 Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

S6W8Paper2 - Research Paper Example The latter part of the 20th century and commencement of the 21st century has radically altered the nature of international order. It is now evident that this change cannot be contained in a dynamic world characterized by globalization, and rapid growth in information and technology. United States of America must therefore brace itself to a multilateral world where, while boosting of the military, economic and cultural prowess, it may face challenges from adversaries and even allies2. This paper gives a detailed account of the current international order and trends in the global affairs that have either a direct or indirect impact on United States. It further shows the manner in which US can chart its way to a peaceful and stable future by being at the forefront of world economy, protecting crucial global strategic interests, and maximizing on the use of military power and strength. In addition, the paper provides an analysis of the emerging threats from terrorist and the proliferatio n of nuclear weapons. ... Most of these actors are responsible for direct acts of terrorism and supporting terrorist groups either financially or through offering them a safe haven. Cases in point are North Korea and Iran. The two nations have totally objected collaborating with international treaties on aspects such as reduction of nuclear weapon capabilities. The eventuality has been constant threats on resources that are meant for the common good such as oil and sea lanes. The policy of United States then is to insist on measures that would compel such non-players to comply with the treaties agreed upon by the international institutions. Among the many strategies employed include application of stringent sanctions on such nations aimed at crippling their economic and coordination power3. Nonetheless, the sanction would be only be enforced on states that blatantly object the efforts of international institutions of preserving global peace and order. For instance, North Korea is clearly moving against the gl obal peace initiative. It has consistently tested its medium range missiles despite warnings from the international community. Furthermore, it has gone on the offensive, through its dictatorial leader, to warn U.S., South Korea and Japan of a possible war if they do not stay away from spying on them. The threats from North Korea warrant for all possible forms of sanctions. On the other hand, United States would capitalize on the strong reform organizations as well as citizens to drive change in nations such as Iran. Through supporting these movements, U.S. can effectively drive both social and political change in such countries. The same case can be applied in China. Essentially, the idea of nations investing on weapons of mass destruction would be discouraged at all costs4. The strategy

If Dory Had Gone Against Marias Wishes Essay Example for Free

If Dory Had Gone Against Marias Wishes Essay Jack would respond in the affirmative and then, according to Dory, the â€Å"bed would squeak†. Emma wanted to believe that she was living in a fairy-tale and she so she did, refusing to let anyone tell her otherwise. Mrs. Robinson tried to tell Emma that her husband was being unfaithful, and Emma refused to believe. Though Emma had all right not to believe Mrs. Robinson, the fact still remained that Mrs. Robinson was unable to convince Emma of Jack’s infidelity. If Mrs. Robinson could not convince Emma that all was not right in her relationship with her husband, how would Dory, an eight year old girl who did not fully understand the workings of the adult world, be able to convince Emma that Jack was being unfaithful. Emma would have told Dory that she did not understand what she was talking about, and demand to know where she had received her information. When Dory had revealed her source, which she undoubtedly would because of her love for Emma and need to please her, Emma would no doubt have confronted Mrs. Robinson. That confrontation would only have put the altercation between Emma and Mrs. Robinson at a different setting. Emma would still have refused to believe that she was not the only woman in Jack York’s life. Mrs. Robinson would still have set up the â€Å"chance† meeting among Emma, Jack and the lady at the train station. Emma would still have reacted the way she did, and would still have died. It is therefore safe for me to say, that based on my analysis of the short story, Emma, as well as looking at the most likely outcomes for a slight change in the plot of the story, if Dory had told her mother about the lady at the train station, the outcome of the story would have probably been the same.

Marketing Audit For Coca Cola Enterprises

Marketing Audit For Coca Cola Enterprises This report provides a complete comprehensive analysis of The Coca-Cola Company which includes an overview of the industry the company operates in, a PEST Framework analysis of the industry then moves on to analyzing the company itself. Company analysis includes a history of The Coca-Cola Company, a SWOT analysis of the segments The Coca-Cola Company operates through, a look at the customer, competitor stakeholder analysis of the company, to derive a strategic assessment of the same to finalize a conclusion a set of recommendations which can be implemented by Coke for a better market share. The Coca Cola is licensed to produce, sell distribute a range of beverages. The company owns the trade marks for most of these, supplies the concentrates is largely responsible for consumer marketing. The most popular product of the Coca-Cola Company is the Coca-Cola invented by pharmacist John Pemberton in 1886. Asa Candler brought the brand formula in 1889 that incorporated the Coca-Cola Company in 1892. Besides its namesake Coca-Cola beverage, Coca-Cola currently offers more than 500 brands in over 200 countries serves 1.6billion servings each day. Corporate social responsibility Council (CSR) makes Coke a more competitive company, responsibly manage the social, economic environmental impacts, manage risks, capture opportunities, innovate, reduce costs improve reputation with all groups of stakeholders. The results of Cokes latest marketing shift is still under evaluation but arguably the strongest most pervasive marketing distribution system in the world with Coke being the first soda drunk in outer space, even the sky may not be the limit. TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE NO Executive Summary 1 Introduction 4 1.1 Looking at the Industry 4 1.2 Brief Profile of the Industry 4 1.3 Products Brands 4 2 Current Environment and Operations 5 2.1 PEST Analysis 5 2.1a Political aspects 5 2.1b Economic aspects 6 2.1c Social aspects 7 2.1d Technological aspects 7 2.2 SWOT Analysis 8 2.2a Strengths to bulid upon 8 2.2b Weaknesses to overcome 9 2.2c Opportunities to exploit 10 2.2d Threats to overcome 11 2.3 Customer Analysis 11 2.4 Competitor Analysis 12 2.5 Stakeholder Analysis 12 3. Strategy Assessment 13 4. Recommendations and Conclusions 13 LIST OF REFERENCES 15 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 Looking at the Industry: The Coca-Cola Company is a beverage retailer, manufacturer marketer of non-alcoholic beverage concentrates syrups. Founded in Atlanta in 1886, Coca-Cola grew steadily from a local business to a multinational institution. In the last century, Coke became the ubiquitous symbol of American business in virtually every country around the world. (www.coca-cola.com/index.jsp, 2010) 1.2 Brief Profile of the Industry: Coca-Cola, started in 1883, has successfully kept its brand relevant for over 100 years. Revenues in 2003 topped $21billion. The Coca-Cola Company only produces syrup concentrate which is then sold to various bottlers throughout the world who hold an exclusive territory. The company operates a franchised distribution system dating from 1889. The Coca-Cola Company owns its anchor bottler in North America, Coca-Cola Refreshments. The current chairman of Coca-Cola is Muhtar Kent. The Coca-Cola headquarters are in Atlanta, Georgia. Its stock is listed on the NYSE is part of DJIA, SP 500 Index, the Russell 1000 Index the Russell 1000 Growth Stock Index. By the end of 2006, juices, waters other health functional beverages represented almost 1/3rd of their sales to meet changing consumer needs. Coca Cola aims to be a preferred supplier to its customers, to deliver superior financial results to its stake holders to provide its employees with a safe, healthy inclusive workplace. (Coca-Cola HBC, 2006) 1.3 Products and Brands: The Coca-Cola has 400 brands in about 200 countries besides its namesake Coca-Cola beverage. The first diet soft drink attempted by Coca-Cola was Tab, whose sales have dwindled since the introduction of Diet Coke. It also produces Fanta Sprite this drink was produced by Max Keith during World War II. The German Fanta Klare Zitrone (Clear Lemon Fanta) variety became Sprite, another of the companys bestsellers its response to 7Up soft drink. Valpre Bottled water was also released in South Africa. Due to the growing demand of healthy beverages from the consumers Coca-Cola introduced some more brands like Minute Maid Juices, Powerade sports beverage, flavoured tea Nestea which was a joint venture with Nestle, Fruitopia fruit drink Dasani waters. () The rest of the report is organized in the following way: Section 2: Current Environment Operations. Section 3: Strategy Assessment. Section 4: Recommendations Conclusion. 2. CURRENT ENVIRONMENT OPERATIONS: For a clear analysis of Coca colas environment the report focuses on PEST, SWOT, Customer, Competitor Stakeholder analysis of the company, thus to develop a set of marketing objectives of the company. 2.1 PEST analysis of Coca Cola: 2.1a Political aspects: Coke comes under FDA, food category, as being a non-alcoholic beverage. The government plays a role within the operation of manufacturing these products in terms of regulations. There are potential fines set by the government on companies if they do not meet a standard of laws. The following are some of the factors that could cause companys actual results to differ materially from the expected results described in their underlying companys forward statement:- Changes in laws regulations, including changes in accounting standards, taxation requirements, (including tax rate changes, new revised tax law interpretations) environmental laws in domestic or foreign jurisdictions. Political conditions, especially in international markets, including civil unrest, government changes restrictions on the ability to transfer capital across borders. Their ability to penetrate developing emerging markets, which also depends on economic political conditions, how well they are able to acquire or form strategic business alliances with local bottlers make necessary infrastructure enhancements to production facilities, distribution networks, sales equipment and technology. (, 2010) 2.1b. Economic aspects: The U.S. economy was strong nearly every part of it was growing doing well, however things changed. Most economists loosely define a recession as 2 consecutive quarters of contraction, or negative GDP growth. The non-alcoholic beverage industry has high sales in countries outside the U.S. According to the Standard and Poors Industry surveys, For major soft drink companies, there has been economic improvement in many major international markets, such as Japan, Brazil, Germany. These markets will continue to play a major role in the success stable growth for a majority of the non-alcoholic beverage industry. 2.1c. Social aspects: Many U.S. citizens are practicing healthier lifestyles. This has affected the non-alcoholic beverage industry in that many are switching to bottled water diet colas instead of beer other alcoholic beverages. Also, time management has increased is at approximately 43% of households. The need for bottled water more convenient healthy products are important in the average day-to-day life. http://www.cdf-mn.org Consumers from the ages of 37-55 are also increasingly concerned with nutrition. There is a large population of the age range known as the baby boomers. Since many are reaching an older age in life they are becoming more concerned with increasing their longevity. This will continue to affect the non-alcoholic beverage industry by increasing the demand overall in the healthier beverages. 2.1d Technical aspects: The effectiveness of companys advertising, marketing promotional programs is crucial task. The new technology of internet television is the use special effects for advertising through media. They make some products look attractive. This helps in selling of the products. This advertising makes the product attractive. This technology is being used in media to sell their products. Introduction of cans and plastic bottles have increased sales for Coca-Cola as these are easier to carry can bin them once they are used. CCE has instituted an internal carbon tax on air travel and encouraged the use of video conferencing internet document sharing. As the technology is getting advanced there has been introduction of new machineries. Due to introduction of these machineries the production of the CCE has increased tremendously than it was few years ago. (, 2007) CCE has 6 factories in Britain which use the most stat-of-the-art drinks technology to ensure top product quality speedy delivery. Europes largest soft drinks factory was opened by CCE in Wakefield, Yorkshire in 1990. The Wakefield factory has the technology to produce cans of Coca-Cola faster than bullets from a machine gun. 2.2 SWOT of Coca Cola: 2.2a Strengths to build upon: An extremely recognizable branding is one of the greatest strength of Coca-Cola. Out of the 5 leading soft-drink brands being sold worldwide, the company produces sells 4 of them, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta Diet Coke. Consumer loyalty to the company its products remains high, which is evident from the high market acceptance of  Coca-Colas introduced products newly.  Coca-Cola Zero, which was introduced in the North American market in 2005, garnered a 1% market share in supermarkets in the year of its launch. Enjoyed more than 685m times a day around the world Coca-Cola stands as a simple, yet powerful symbol of quality and enjoyment was stated by Allen in 1995. The company has been entering other non-alcoholic beverages segments to widen its presence in the beverages market like sports drinks juices which has been successful. Minute-Maid is presently available across 80 nations, its share in several juice markets in the world improved with 11% increase in sales volume of Minute-Maid products in 2005. The annual per-capita consumption of the companys products is increasing worldwide stood at about 32 servings (1 serving = 8 US fluid ounces of finished beverage) in 1985, increasing to 55 servings in 1995. In 2005, the average consumption per-capita was 77 servings. In North America, companys products stood at about 413 servings in 2005. (, 2010) 2.2b Weakness to overcome: In January 2004,  CCE has introduced the Dasani brand of bottled water in the UK. By March 2004,  Coca-Cola  recalled the product owing to the discovery of excess levels of bromate in the product, which could cause side effects including cancer in human beings. This resulted in recall expenses of $32m for the company. Coca-Colas sales have been hampered to a certain extent by rumours myths about the company its products. The companys sales in the Middle East were affected by rumours alleging that  Coca-Cola  is a Jewish company its trademark carries anti-Muslim messages. The companys sales in South Asia, particularly in India, were affected in recent years due to allegations of  Coca-Colas drinks containing pesticides. These rumours myths have impaired the companys image to some extent. (, 2010) The companys bottling activities are predominantly carried out by 3rd parties or bottling partners. The companys 2nd largest contributor to revenues (close to 19% in the 1st quarter of 2006) was its Bottling Investments segment.   Coca-Cola does not have any control over its bottling partners financial positions, which could be affected by market trends, competition their accessibility to capital resources. Though Coke has the right to unilaterally change prices of its syrups concentrates, the changes could be enforced only if its bottling partners have the ability to pass on the price increases to their consumers. In light of the bottlers high contribution to  Coca-Colas revenues, the company is more vulnerable to the threat of revenue impairment than its peers with more direct distribution activities. (, ND) 2.2c Opportunities to exploit: Coca-Colas products are being consumed, only 1.3b times a day. Furthermore, though Cokes products reach over 200 nations owing to its comprehensive distribution network, there are countries where the average per-capita consumption remains below 50 servings per day. Countries that fall in this category include the worlds 2 most populated nations, India and China. These markets provide tremendous growth opportunities for  Coca-Cola. The company has identified strategic areas for its expansion, which would complement its core business of manufacturing carbonated soft-drinks. In this regard, the company integrated its strategy, innovation and marketing efforts pumped in additional financial resources of $400m in 2005. It  is also expected to enter the freshly brewed coffee and tea businesses, on a trial basis, under the banner, Far Coast. (AsiaPulse News, 13 February 2004) The company modified its revenue growth strategy by adopting the best practices that were followed in its systems in Brazil Argentina. The company is also working with the bottling partners for better implementation of its revenue growth strategy, to increase profitability from case volume sales improving efficiency in worldwide operations. The company also foresees greater potential for growth in the immediate-consumption channel drafted an immediate-consumption strategy for its worldwide operations. The company worked with its suppliers bottling partners to develop advanced equipment, which would offer a new beverage experience to the immediate-consumption channel. Coca-Cola  is also benchmarking best practices in its top immediate-consumption markets to be implemented in other worldwide markets. 2.2d Threats to avoid: The increasing awareness about obesity among consumers, particularly youngsters, triggered by the consumption of non-diet carbonated soft drinks, is expected to dampen demand for the companys beverages from the youth segment in the future. In the recent past, consumer forums in the US threatened to file lawsuits against  Coca-Cola   other carbonated soft-drink producers, for pursuing deceptive practices associated with contracts for selling carbonated soft drinks in schools. The main ingredient in most of  Coca-Colas products is water, a scarce resource in many countries due to a host of factors including pollution of water bodies, inefficient water management and overexploitation of water resources. (Klebukov P, 22 December 2003) The soft drink industry is very strong, but consumers are not necessarily married to it. Tea, coffee, juices, milk hot chocolate are possible substitutes that continuously put pressure on Coke. It  faces tough competition not only from global players such as  PepsiCo, but also from local players. Competitors for  Coca-Cola include Cadbury Schweppes, Nestlà ©, Kraft Foods  Ã‚  Groupe-Danone. The companys efforts towards consolidating its market position could be restrained by the increased competition from these players. 2.3 Customer analysis: In a survey conducted recently by Coca Cola, a sequence of consumers purchasing preference is recorded which is Taste, Brand name, Packaging, Price, Easy availability and advertisement. The intensity of colour the flavour are the key drivers behind consumer acceptance of beverages then the packaging labelling, says a new study involving DANONE. 10 to 20 year age groups are consuming more Coca Cola than any other age segmentation. The customers loyalty for Coca-Cola has always been consistent though cokes price is slightly higher to that of Pepsi other brands. In response to the growing consumer preference for low calorie products, Coke launched Coke Zero, Diet Coke other health drinks whose sales are on top throughout the world. (Khermouch G Brandy D, August 4, 2003) 2.4 Competitor analysis: Coca-Colas direct competitor is PepsiCo whose strength is low carbonated energy drinks, weakness is snack foods. PepsiCo uses celebrities to attract customers. 60% of its profits come from snack foods 40% from drinks, PepsiCo has growing profits by 15% per annum. With Coca-Colas strength being in fizzy drinks, competitors would try to capitalize on its weaker products. Coca-Cola has recently acquired Subway soft drink business, which was previously served by Pepsi. Coke is the most popular beverage in the world, while Pepsi enjoys it only at home. By comparison, rival Pepsi-Colas brand value is a mere $11.78b. (Marketing, December 18 2003) 2.5 Stakeholder analysis: Most businesses have to consider the impact of their activities on stakeholders Coca-Cola is no exception. Coca-Cola identified its stakeholders as its employees, civil organizations, governments, regulatory authorities, non-governmental organizations, suppliers, consumers, investors, shareowners analysts. Understanding stakeholder concerns perceptions is essential to operating a successful business like Coke these positive long-term relationships built on the basis of trust common goals help them create a sustainable business growth. In 2006, engagement with stakeholders focused on key strategic issues like addressing obesity, water resource, packaging waste management, tackling climate change. In response to the employee engagement survey the company implemented action plans developed engagement internal communications. The company also worked with government agencies, NGOs industry peers to increase recycling protect water bodies. Coke has set up CRIS-consumer response i nformation centres in every country to address consumer enquiries. Regular communications with shareholders include road-shows, web-casts briefings. (, ND) 3. STRATEGY ASSESSMENT: Coca-Cola now gets 2/3rds of its revenues from outside the United States. Its easier to name the countries where coke is not available. Everywhere else including such tricky markets as Pakistan, Cambodia, Liberia, Zimbabwe, Liberia Colombia Coke is a beloved consumer staple. The brand is so strong entrenched that even the anti-American sentiments of 9/11 after have not hurt the sales. Coca-Colas brand valuation increased from $68.95b in August 2001 to $70.45b in 2003. Coca-Cola remains the top global brand, achieving the top ranking in BusinessWeeks Global Brand Scorecard once again in 2003. A small set of recommendations would help achieve Coke attain greater heights as discussed below. (Wamer F, April 2003) 4. RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS: With the help of PEST, SWOT other analysis, the internal external environment of CCE has been analysed. Coca-Cola operations extend across 28 countries establishing, developing emerging markets according to business infrastructure, economic development growth prospectus. Through innovation acquisition, Coca-Cola owns operates 81 bottling plants, 64 soft drink plants, 3 juice plants 14 mineral water plants. The strength of Coca-Colas system allows infinite growth in the global market. They have the resources available for this opportunity but they must develop marketing strategies that have local appeal as this is essential for their success. Through their brand reputation vast marketing experience, Coca-Cola has the ability to extend the recognition of their brand logo. However it would be best to leverage brand equity their financial resources, to accelerate global market penetration with a view to long term profits. Coke must continue to evolve its market share. The effectiveness of TV ads is declining due to media fragmentation use of devices like TIVO that let viewers zap commercials. So it is advisable for Coke should divert money previously spent on TV towards more experimental activities like setting up of lounges in teen malls offer exclusive music videos, video games sell coke drinks from Coke machines. (Faust D, p.77, March 1, 2004) With the threat of political economical instability, Coke must consider each countrys unique cultural, political, legal economic environment to extend its market share. With the threat of increasing health consciousness among consumers, it is advisable for Coke to further resource their fruit drink product lines as this market sector is growing rapidly. In laying out an appropriate marketing mix, Coke must consider product, distribution, promotion price, therefore developing a marketing mix for each customer group. In a fairly saturated slow moving beverage industry if Coca-Cola can diversify expand on these products globally they would gain a huge market share a great competitive advantage that would allow for greater long-term profits increase dominations into the next century. LIST OF REFERENCES www.coca-cola.com. Coca-Cola HBC 2006, Social Responsibility report 2006, www.coca-cocahbc.com, Greece. Viewed 5 December 2010, Viewed 5 December 2010, Viewed 5 December 2010, Viewed 6 December 2010, Viewed 6 December 2010, Dean Faust, Coke:Wooing the TiVo Generation, BusinessWeek, March 1, 2004, p.77. Paul Klebukov, Cokes Sinful World, Forbes, December 22, 2003, p.86. Coca-Cola Japan to Debut Beer-flavoured Soda Next Month, AsiaPulse News, February 13, 2004. How Coke Moulded our view of Santa Claus to Fuel Winter Sales, Marketing, December 18, 2003. Gerry Khermouch and Diane Brandy, The Top 100 Brands, BusinessWeek, August 4, 2003. Fara Wamer, Chris Lowe Time To Get Real, Fast Company, April 2003.

Learning through exploration, active participation and imitation

Learning through exploration, active participation and imitation Young children learn through exploration, active participation and through imitation and as such quality arts programme comprising of all art forms visual art, music, media, dance and drama should be included as part of the curriculum in the early childhood classroom. As stated by Spodek,1993 (cited in Isenberg Jalongo, 2001) through participating in the art activities children are able to express themselves and it provides opportunities for development of creativity , symbolizing and enhances their learning about aesthetics which further helps them gain academic knowledge. Smith, 1982 (cited in Wright, 1991) mentioned that children are able to organise their experiences and know about themselves and their world through participating in the arts. Dyson (1990, p.52) further stated that art and play have critical roles in childrens growth as symbol makers . Like play, art is voluntary and intrinsically motivated as children are free to choose the content and direction of the activity . There are no external demands or expectations and children are free to explore, experiment and investigate with the people, objects and materials provided. He also mentioned that children pursue art activities for intrinsic pleasure rather than external rewards. Furthermore, the gestures and first words children use during make believe play reflect upon peoples actions and things around their daily lives which is the early understanding of symbolisation as well as the basic foundation that develops into drawing pictures, spoken and written words in their later stages. Based on my practical experiences in the classroom and as well as through the readings from books I believe that arts is just as important as any other subject in the curriculum and children do learn and develop their physical, intellectual, emotional and social skills through participating in the arts activities. It is also a requirement by the Ministry of Education that the arts be included as part of the curricul um in the Singaporean classroom. (cited in Framework for A Kindergarten Curriculum in Singapore, 2006). This essay is a brief attempt at looking at the importance of the arts in the education of young children drawn from two art forms which are music and drama. According to Isenberg Jalongo, (2001) four types of learning are promoted through the arts and they are 1) knowledge about the arts 2) skills in the arts 3) dispositions towards the arts and 4) feelings about the arts. As knowledge about the arts is developed through sensory experiences and explorations of materials, children provided with such opportunities to observe, explore and discover about the world, develop their cognitive ability and it further enhances foundation for later learning in the preschool years whereby they use symbols, language and make believe play develops. Skills in the arts are developed when children are allowed to explore and experiment in a safe and healthy art environment provided with a variety of tools and materials under the guidance of an adult who has already acquired these skills. For example, children creating a paper use the skill of printing, painting, tearing, rolling, and colour mixing. They use their fine motor skills, eye hand coordination and social interaction skills. Throughout the activity they engage in the process of problem solving as they experiment with colour and texture to create the paper. There is a certain amount of trial and error while they experiment with the tools. Self expression as children are able to use their own imagination and creativity to express themselves while creating the paper. (Isenberg Jalongo, 2001) Vygotsky, according to Berk, (2000) viewed childrens cognitive development as a socially mediated process whereby processes and skills are transferred and supported from more knowledgeable adult as children try new tasks. He also believed that as long as children acquire language, their ability to communicate with others leads to changes in thought and behaviour that vary from culture to culture. As such, the third type of learning dispositions towards art depends on the adult being the role model and the interaction with more competent peers and teachers to support the child to parti cipate successfully in the arts. Providing feedback as stated by Wright, (1991) is part of summative assessment that guides childrens learning and helps them acquire the elements, concepts, forms, and vocabulary about the arts. When children are given opportunities to respond to art works created by others, for example, when they are taken for visits to art galleries and teachers model ways to respond thoughtfully while viewing the works by professional artist children learn to respect the work of others and when teachers value childrens work and display them, these develops their sense of efficacy and enables them to have positive feeling about the arts. On the other hand, Swanwick, (1998) mentioned that the three elements of play applicable to learning through the arts are mastery, imitation, and imaginative play. Mastery involves learning of a skill associated with an art form for example children learning to make finger puppets for a drama performance or trying to keep to the rhythm while experimenting with a musical instrument during a musical percussion session. Children being able to identify things and people other than themselves as well as learning how to express sympathy, empathy and show concern explains the expressive nature of the art form known as Imitation. Based on my classroom experience, preschoolers making musical sounds for pigs running away from the wolf and moving their bodies to suggest movements of a wolf and expressing through facial expressions as an angry wolf for a drama performance of the story Three Little Pigs are examples of imitation. Imaginative play focuses on the structure of an art form. Examples of imaginative play during the Three Little Pigs drama are when children experiment with different musical instruments until they are able to create the sound that best resembles the pigs running away from the wolf and when experimenting with the different ways as they can move that suggests the movement of the wolf. Swanwick, (1998) also suggests that all three elements of play must be in action for all ages in order to learn through the arts. Isenberg Jalongo, (2001) claim that music contributes to the total development of the child cognitive, physical, social, emotional, cultural and aesthetics. In my centre, we have a music and movement area equipped with a variety of musical instruments like bells, tambourines, triangles etc. Children participate in music and movement activities whereby they move as well as sing along and play musical instruments. Through these activities children develop their large muscles of their bodies as they invent actions to go along with the songs .They develop fine motor skills as they play musical instruments and become aware of beat, tempo, and pitch. These activities also build kinaesthetic intelligence. Gardner, (1973, cited in Isenberg Jalongo, 1997) Children gain experience with music and use of language as they sing the songs for instance when singing the song If you happy and you know it clap your hands they link words with actions and focus on the sequence and task and all these i nvolves childrens ability to process mentally the tone, rhythm, and melody and thus involves thinking skills and cognitive connections between music and learning. As mentioned by Isenberg Jalongo , 1997 that Bruners three learning stages enactive, iconic and symbolic suggests developmentally appropriate musical experience for children and they add that Bruners enactive stage relates to Piagets(1952) sensorimotor stage and Eriksons (1950) trust-building stage where physical activity and music are intertwined. Thus, musical activities stimulate the childrens senses, cognitive development and also build social relationships. Childrens creativity is enhanced when they are asked to decide on the other actions and movement apart from those suggested by the teacher. As stated by McAllester, (cited in Isenberg Jalongo, 1997) music encourages participation, sharing and cooperation .Through participating in the musical activities, there is cooperation and sharing when children get together and work with a partner or in a group and these develops their social skills. Music is also an excellent tool to familiarise children with the different culture. When children are given the opportunity to experience and listen to different cultural music, they begin to appreciate and understand what each ethnic group is about.and these develops their aesthetic skills and understand the art form. Cornett (1999) supports the need for teachers to integrate creative drama in the classroom as she states that drama being a part of everyday life, prepares an individual to connect to real life situations. Cornett (1999) adds that when children are participating in the drama, they are able to look at problems from different points of view, respect diverse thinking, and realise that there are many ways to settle one problem. She further states that through drama, children learn to exchange feelings and emotions with each other. This enhances their personality development. Cornett (1999) also states that personal development takes place when children control their body and words as they express ideas and feelings during the drama activities. She also indicated that positive self image and confidence are developed through the problem solving situations. Cornett (1999) reiterates that children engaging in situational confrontations during their role play, also become aware of the different emotions people feel for example happiness, sadness .anger, fear. She adds that the children learn that these feelings can be dealt with, thus developing a tolerance towards them. Isbell Raines (2007), agree that social skills can be developed in drama as children working in a group overcome difficulties through problem solving skills. They experience working with peers as they negotiate plans to stage the drama. During interactions, children learn to negotiate with each other, work cooperatively, and develop respect for each other. In my centre, besides the dramatic play in the home corner, my class of four year olds involve in simple puppetry and mask drama using rhymes and childrens stories. Rhymes like This little pig went to market are taught to children using puppets and later children retell the rhyme using the puppets. In addition, children take turns to dramatise the rhyme each child given a mask of a pig (mask designed and made by child), actions like going the market, eating roast beef are incorporated. Puppets and mask are excellent props in focusing childrens attention. Through such activities children are able to participate in dramatic action using the element role, as they pretend to be someone other than themselves. Language is enhanced as they retell rhyme and children are able to express ideas and feelings through dramatic movement. (Isbell Raines, 2007) .As mentioned above, experts strongly believe that musical activities and drama enables children to develop their physical, cognitive, social, emotional and aesthetic skills as well as to provide opportunities for development of self expression, creativity, symbolizing all of which enhances their academic knowledge .There are many opportunities for children to learn and develop skills, knowledge and processes through participation in the arts , as such having discussed the benefits and leaning outcomes of childrens participation in the arts , I strongly believe that the arts is important in the education of preschoolers and all art forms should be integrated into the preschool curriculum with equal emphasis as any other subject in the curriculum.

Altered Reality in Joseph Conrads Heart of Darkness Essay example --

Altered Reality in Heart of Darkness      Ã‚  Ã‚   The world of darkness that Marlow finds himself in is directly comparable to what Leary describes of the bardos (stages) that occur during a drug-induced trip or psychedelic experience. ‘The underlying problem of the Second Bardo is that any and every shape—human, divine, diabolical, heroic, evil, animal, thing—which the human brain conjures up or the past life recalls, can present itself to consciousness: shapes and forms and sounds whirling by endlessly’ (48). An example of such presentation is Marlow’s perception of the jungle as a palpable force that has the power of human gestures. It calls, beckons, lures, etc. Leary writes that accompanying the moment of ego-loss is the perception of ‘wave-energy flow’: ‘the individual becomes aware that he is part of and surrounded by a charged field of energy, which seems almost electrical...the attempt to control or to rationalize this energy flow... is indicative of ego-acti vity and the First Bardo transcendence is lost’ (41). Marlow never loses ego-activity so he never reaches transcendence, but his ego-activity rationalizes his feeling of the physical awareness of the jungle. He colors the Congo dark instead of light and chooses to reject, not embrace, the force of the jungle so his rationalizations are negative and he thinks the force is evil.     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The negative, wrathful counterparts to this vision occur if the voyager reacts with fear to the powerful flow of life forms. Such a reaction is attributable to the cumulated result of game playing (karma) dominated by anger or stupidity. A nightmarish hell-world may ensue. The visual forms appear like a confusing chaos of cheap, ugly dime-store objects, brassy, vulgar and useless. The ... ... all truth, and all sincerity, are just compressed into that inappreciable moment of time in which we step over the threshold of the invisible’ (Conrad, 113).    Works Cited Conrad, Joseph. Heart of Darkness. Editor Robert Kimbrough. New York: Norton, 1988. Cox, C. B. Conrad: Heart of Darkness, Nostromo, and Under Western Eyes. London: Macmillan Education Ltd., 1987. Guetti, James. ‘Heart of Darkness and the Failure of the Imagination’, Sewanee Review LXXIII, No. 3 (Summer 1965), pp. 488-502. Ed. C. B. Cox. Leary, Timothy , Metzner, Ralph, Alpert, Richard The Psychedelic Experience: A Manual Based on the Tibetan Book of the Dead Ruthven, K. K. ‘The Savage God: Conrad and Lawrence,’ Critical Quarterly, x, nos 1& 2 (Spring and Summer 1968), pp. 41-6. Ed. C. B. Cox. Watts, Cedric. A Preface to Conrad. Essex: Longman Group UK Limited, 1993.