Abstract This paper examines the background of issues that gave rise to Proposition AA, the contents of Proposition AA itself and the proposition's critics. Proposition AA allows voters to decide whether to approve the financing for renovations at the district's nine community colleges, as well as construct new facilities that have been previously launched under Proposition A.
From the Paper "Like many social service-oriented sectors of local government, the Los Angeles Community College District is facing severe financial challenges. California governor Gray Davis has announced $21 million in state budget cuts, potentially reducing even further the stretched resources of the community college system."
Abstract This paper explains that, because the main product line of the Automobile Association (AA) of the U.K. has reached the maturity phase of the product life-cycle; a new advertising strategy, 'Just AASK', incorporating AA's entire umbrella of business products and services, allows the company to communicate a single streamlined message that addresses both new and existing customer concerns and creates new opportunities for cross sales from the core business. The author points out that the AA has a database including every customer who has ever inquired or purchased a product or service from the company, which can be analyzed to develop potential new markets, target groups and new products and to evaluate models for the 'Just AASK' campaign. The paper relates that the key of the 'Just AASK' agenda is to establish a direct marketing communications program that will increase revenue by increasing sales from existing customers; the acquisition strategy of choice for new customers will be a combination of 'Buzz Marketing' and 'Word-of-Mouth' advertising.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Communication and Customer Service
4 P's Approach
Database Strategy
Direct Marketing Communication Program for Existing Customers
Motor Section
Travel Section
Financial Services
Acquisition Strategy for New Customers
Motor Section and Travel Section
Financial Services
Conclusion
From the Paper "The majority of all business success revolves around attracting and retaining customers. "It is well recognized that a key issue in gaining brand awareness, trial, and subsequent loyalty is to reflect deep-seated values in advertising and augmented product offerings. When marketers address consumer values, target consumers sense that the product's purpose is to benefit their individual lives." The company will therefore seek to take advantage of its valuable customer databases by first enhancing this wealth of information and then creating new strategies for direct marketing communications with existing customers. The new marketing approach will also create viable means for acquiring new customers."
Abstract This paper discusses the effects of the personnel cost-cutting measures employed by major airlines in the United States and their relationship to aircraft safety. The research focuses on four factors - employee layoffs, increase on employee workload, cutting employee benefits and cutting employee training. The paper presents a survey on aviation pilots at American Airlines (AA).
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Background of the Problem
Statement of the Problem
Limitations
Delimitations
Definition of Terms
Acronyms
II Review of Related Literature Hypothesis
Introduction
Employee Benefits Cost Reduction and Wages Cutback
Employee Lay Offs
Increase in Employee Workload
Employee Training
Commercial Aircraft Safety
III Research Methodology
Introduction
Research Design
Research Model
Survey Population
Sources of Data
The Data Gathering Instrument
Pilot Study
Instrument Pretest
Distribution Method
Instrument Reliability
Instrument Validity
IV Results
Introduction
Demographics
Pilot's Awareness of Company Decision and Policies
Pilot's Awareness about AA's Cost Cutting Measures
Pilot's Perspective on the Effects of Cost Cutting
Measures of AA to Commercial Aircraft Safety
V Discussion
Introduction
Pilot's Awareness of company Decision and Policies
Pilot's Awareness about AA's Cost Cutting Measures
Pilot's Perspective on the Effects of Cost Cutting
Measures of AA to Commercial Aircraft Safety
Summary
VI Conclusion
VII Recommendations
Appendices
From the Paper "Since, 1998 the Government Accountability Office (2004) (GAO) of the United States had reported that majority of the leading airline industries have a difficulty of acquiring revenue and profit increase because of the growth of Low Cost Airlines (LCA) The proliferation of Low Cost Airlines has caused a strict competition in terms of domestic market share due to the relatively low prices that were offered and the relatively low cost cutting measures of LCA. Hence, it is reported by GAO (2004) that the operation costs of LCA have even increased to $1 Billion or 10% of its total operation costs. In effect of this, the research inferred that such an effect had a significant impact in terms of how passengers in general compare and view LCA to Big Airlines."
Abstract Affirmative action (AA) refers to the social practice in which members of historically disadvantaged groups are given preferential treatment in an attempt by the United States to compensate for any harm that was caused to their ancestors in the past. The paper shows that equal employment opportunity strictly prohibits employment discrimination and its main purpose is to eliminate any form of bias in the hiring process or the workplace. The paper examines the requirements for AA/EEO and shows arguments for and against these policies. It also examines the effectiveness of AA/EEO requirements and ultimately argues that these requirements have ensured that the majority of businesses do not practice unfair employment practices in the United States.
From the Paper "Opponents of affirmative action believe that it is actually reversed discrimination in the workplace. However, a recent study by Rutgers University law school revealed that only a few dozen cases of reverse discrimination were reported in federal courts over a four-year period (Wilson, 1995) and the courts rejected most. Opponents also say that affirmative action policies also lead to lower hiring standards.
Affirmative action does not require quotas. In areas where minorities or women are underutilized, hiring or promotional goals are established, but quotas do not result in reverse discrimination."
Abstract This paper discusses the problems of alcohol abuse and the high rates of alcohol consumption in China. It discusses the introduction of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in China and describes the 12 step program that they utilize. Original sources are included with the paper.
Table of Contents:
Introducing Alcohol Facts and Myths
Contrary to Myths
Romanticizing Alcohol
12-Step Treatment
In China or Any Other Country...
AA Contentions
Appendix
From the Paper "In time, to address problems relating to alcoholism Alcoholics Anonymous meetings were initiated in China. Although these meetings were run similar to meetings held in the U.S., the psychiatrist who translated AA literature indicated the majority of China reportedly "do not believe in God and therefore use higher power in the third step". While a variety of definitions for higher power exist, it appears AA's spirituality proves more applicable to current Chinese society and philosophy than a Western-style religion. AA's focus and traditions have permitted the acceptance of AA in China, while it helps suffering alcoholics achieve and maintain sobriety. (Smith, 2004, p. 3)"
Abstract This paper discusses Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and their twelve step program. The paper examines the different opinions of Neil J. Carr and Vince Fox who express different opinions about the effectiveness of Alcoholics Anonymous. The paper discusses the pros and cons of each of their points of view and then briefly looks at other organizations that mirror AA's beliefs.
From the Paper "To be more specific, many AA meetings are mainly filled with men who are in the age bracket between 35-75 years old. Alcoholics were once viewed as uneducated, poor, old men. As we learn more about the disease we find out that alcohol affects every age, religion, sex, and race - it does not discriminate. You can not tell that a person is an alcoholic by looking at them. A thirty year old female doctor could be an alcoholic. If a person can get help by relating to someone of their own age, sex and religion, then it should be used to help them with any situation and that if breaking from the norms of AA to do this, and then it should be done. Alcoholism is cunning, baffling and powerful and it is very sad to watch anyone fall to this dreaded disease."
Abstract This paper explains that androgenic-anabolic steroids (AAS), synthetic derivatives of the male hormone testosterone, can exert strong effects on the human body, which may be beneficial for athletic performance; however, they also have many serious negative effects on the user's health. The author used a multiple choice questionnaire for participants in intramural sports teams questioning the athletes' knowledge and use of steroids and interviewed coaches regarding their knowledge of the prevalence of the use of AAS drugs in their particular population of student athletes. The paper concludes that (1) the level of knowledge of the coaches in this school was relatively low, (2) 36% of the students at this high school reported using AAS either currently or in the past and (3) a significant proportion of the athletes who took these drugs were unable to state correctly the side effects or the expectations for these drugs.
Table of Contents
The Problem
Problem Background
Literature Review
Historical Perspective
Performance Enhancing Drugs - the Real Problem
Problems Associated with AAS Use
Physiological Changes Associated with AAS Use
Purpose of the Study and Research Questions
Limitations
Definitions
Importance of the Study
Methodology
Research Design
Selection of Participants
Instrumentation
Ethical Issues
Dissemination
Restatement of the Purpose
Research Question One
Research Question Two
Research Question Three
Sub Question A
Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations
Summary
Conclusions
Implications for Practice/Research
Student Questionnaire
Informed Consent Form
Budget
Educational Course Outline
From the Paper "There are some sections of the sport world who believe that the risk of significant side effect from the use of anabolic steroids has been grossly overstated. It is probably more correct to state that studies in this area are really few and far between, and when studies have been carried out the data retrieval is difficult and there is very little in the way of side effect reporting. It therefore makes it difficult to predict the level of harm which may be related to the use of anabolic steroids, but some can be theorized and therefore monitored for. In females who use the drugs, the masculinizing effects can be damaging to features and fertility. It is also important to understand that many of these drugs are not adequately regulated, and as a result many athletes end up using counterfeit products, which carry no safety data or warning labels."
Abstract This essay defines and explains four types of affirmative action, ranging from mild to severe, discusses common opinions regarding AA, and examines philosophical arguments for and against AA The four sources quoted in the essay are all philosophers, and their positions and rationale on the issue of affirmative action are explained. At the end of the essay the author indicates her own position on the morality and justice of AA programs, coming out in favor of affirmative action.
From the Paper "One of the primary values of American society today is equal opportunity, and while there is still far to go true progress is occurring. Second, within a few years society will realize that the debate over weak and strong AA is simply diverting attention from the real issues: providing every child in America with the same quality education, health care services, and working to strengthen families."
This paper discusses Alcoholics Anonymous and its 12-Step Program and analyzes the relative value of such self-help programs and their usefulness to the nurse in planning client care.
Abstract This paper explains that AA has grown to be the single most influential organization in history that specializes in helping alcoholics recover from alcoholism; there are over 1 million alcoholic members in different groups in the United States and other parts of the world. The author experienced an AA meeting, which she thought was positive and hopeful because many people had been through very difficult times and needed the support and acceptance of the other people in the room. The paper concludes that learning more about AA gives, not only a deeper understanding of what works in treating addiction, but also additional insight into the inner workings of the addicted mind.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The History of Alcoholics Anonymous and the 12-Step Program
Some Reasons for Success
Some Reasons for Failure
Significant Meeting Events
Thoughts and Feelings
Incorporating the Knowledge
From the Paper "There were several significant events at the AA meeting. It is quite common knowledge that members introduce themselves, but it is another thing to see the people with the courage to stand up and say, "My name is Bud and I'm a grateful recovering alcoholic." Several people told their personal stories, which also took great courage. Later, I found they called these stories drunkalogs, and some of them were quite depressing and eye opening, like the mother who used to be so drunk when her children came home from school that they had to make their own dinner, and they were embarrassed to bring friends over to the house."
Abstract The ultimate goal of chemical dependency counselors is to help people achieve and maintain abstinence from the use of chemicals for life. Historically the use of Alcoholics Anonymous has been a major tool in achieving the goal of abstinence, and has helped millions of people to stay sober. But this approach has not been successful for everyone who has tried to use the 12 steps of AA to help them achieve and maintain sobriety and for a variety of different reasons some clients reject AA. This paper explores an alternative for those people, 'Rational Recovery'. The paper discusses the theories behind Rational Recovery (RR), the major tools used to maintain sobriety and the way in which groups function and heal those involved.
From the Paper "Once the chemically dependent person has stopped using, RR has a variety of techniques that will help the person remain drug and alcohol free. One of these is Addictive Voice Recognition Training (AVRT). This tool teaches the chemically dependent person to recognize the voices and messages coming from the individual's consciousness that are telling them to use chemicals. As Trimpy put it, ?any thinking that supports any use of drugs or alcohol in any amount, in any form ? ever? (Trimpy, 1992). RR has labeled this internal thinking as the BEAST. The BEAST is a way of breaking down the drinking pattern of thinking into the following steps. The first is the recognition of a Boozing opportunity, and circumstances or time when the person is considering the use of alcohol or drugs. This could also be called the person's triggers for use. This is followed by Enemy voice recognition in which the individual becomes aware of the voice to use. The person is then trained to Accuse the voice of malice, telling their inner voice that they will not succumb to using because they have come to realize that it is not in their self-interest to do so. Self-control and self-worth reminders are then used to remind the person that their lives are much better without chemicals. The last step of BEAST is to Treasure your sobriety which simply means the individual makes an overview and affirmation of their sobriety and life's pleasures that they are now a part of."
Abstract This paper uses Alcoholism Anonymous (AA) as an example to explore group techniques in operation. It examines how it is one of the 12-step programs that has become popular for dealing with addictions and other human problems and how there are currently AA meetings in all large cities and in many small towns. Through a combination of personal observations and a literature review, it analyzes the social and group dynamics that make the program so successful.
Outline
Introduction
Personal Observation
Group Dynamics
Minority Groups
Theory in Psychotherapy
From the Paper "Studies have shown, however, that there is widespread acceptance of, and belief in, AA in minority communities. For example, Caetano (1993) looked at both Hispanic and African-American communities, noting that large majorities of his subjects favored AA affiliation for substance abuse problems. However, Caetano also noted that prevalence estimates varied widely on the extent to which Hispanic clients or African-American clients would actually choose attendance at AA to deal with their substance abuse problems. Caetano indicated that Hispanics were actually more likely than either European-American or African-Americans to choose AA for dealing with their problems. In the AA membership survey itself, in 1996, membership was predominantly white, with only 4 percent of members identified as Hispanic and 5 percent identified as African-American (Alcoholics Anonymous, 1997)."
Abstract This paper outlines the experiences and observations of the writer during attendance at three 12-Step self-help groups: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), a Cocaine Users Anonymous (CA) and a Shoppers Anonymous (SA) group. The 12-step abstinence based method pioneered by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is one of the most widely used form of addiction treatment. It describes the groups, their demographics, their activities, the relations of these activities to the course and the reactions of the writer.
From the Paper "Interestingly, several members stated that this was their second, third, or even fourth time of being "in" AA. As Miller (1995) has commented, many individuals who participate in AA and other 12-Step groups drop in and out of attendance and membership, remaining "clean and sober" for a period of time and then relapsing into alcohol use or other addictive behaviors. This group was no exception; five people with whom I spoke said they had earned their ?100 day chips? only to relapse and begin all over again. Most members stated that they attended an average of 3 meetings per week, but it was recommended that a daily meeting was associated with an enhanced potential for remaining ?clean and sober.? "
This paper is a complete research project studying the complex theory of connectivity, a biological, psychological, and environmental approach to lifespan development.
Abstract This paper is a quantitative study of the phenomena of connectivity that uses a sample population of 425 displaced women treated in Bogota, Colombia, to test the hypothesis. The author used a formal questionnaire with two main scales to measure the degree of connectivity among these women against a background of emotional and psychological well-being. The paper reports that this thesis has found evidence for 1) a biological basis for connectivity, 2) psychological effects on connectivity, and 3) environmental effects on connectivity. These findings are extremely important because such a study has not previously been undertaken and because these results add weight to the body of literature that suggests trauma can lead to anti-social, deviant behavior arising from a lack of connectivity.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Background of the Problem
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Theoretical Framework
Research Hypotheses
Sample Population
Importance of the Study
Scope of the Study
Organization of the Thesis
Literature Review
Origins of Attachment Theory
Adult Attachment
Longitudinal Studies
Romantic Relationship Studies
Measures of Adult Attachment
Methodology
Sample Population
Instrumentation: The Construction of the Survey
Instrumentation: The Adult Attachment Scale (AAS)
Instrumentation: The Hazan and Shaver (1987) Questionnaire
Research Design
Limitations of Study
Data Analysis
Basic Statistical Filtering of the Data
Plan for Statistical Analysis
Simple Statistics and Table of Eigenvalues
Extraction of Initial Factors
Rotation to Terminal Solution
Choosing the Number of Factors to Retain
Position in the Scree Plot
Proportion of Accounted Variance
How are the Results of the Factor Analysis Presented, and How Should They Be Interpreted?
Results
Results of the AAS and Hazan and Shaver Surveys
Conclusion
Summary
Conclusion
Discussion
Future Research
From the Paper "Attachment theory developed out of this early work of Bowlby?s, combined with his growing awareness of evidence emerging from developmental biology and the new science of ethnology. Lorenz's work with imprinting in birds and Harlow's work with monkeys showed that affectional bonds could develop unrelated to the satisfaction of hunger needs. Bowlby's (1958, 1969) insights led him to conclude from this that humans needed social interaction that was satisfied by the caregiver being close by and available for support when needed, This was in contrast to the traditional psychoanalytic theory of dependency, where affectional bonds were thought to develop secondarily to the primary drives for food and sex. As attachment behavior had been found to occur in most species of mammals, he suggested that there was a "primary attachment relationship" that developed during the first nine months of life whose evolutionary function was to protect from predators "
Abstract This paper examines how, with the advent of the Internet, smart companies have been using the unique advantages that this powerful medium offers with "e-business" emerging as the new paradigm of performing business over the Internet. In particular, it looks at the development of the airline business in e-commerce and compares the the e-strategies of American Airlines and Southwest Airlines.
Outline
Introduction
The First Steps
American Airlines
E-Strategies at AA Southwest Airlines
E-Strategies at SW
Markets and Pricing Structure of American Airlines (AA) and Southwest Airlines (SW)
Cost Structures of American Airlines and Southwest Airlines
The Airline Offering the Best Value
Conclusion
From the Paper "The development of the airline business in e-commerce started in the early 1980s, and this was when the academics and consultants found out that a few managers had developed their strategy around IT applications, though the move may have been inadvertent. The first move was by American Airlines and United Airlines with their reservation systems. In other industries, American Hospital Supply had developed an online ordering system, and Frito-Lay had developed a handheld device for the field staff. During the 90s, the concentration was on re-engineering, and this was a concentration on technology. Towards the end of the 90s, came the predominance of e-commerce or e-strategy. The concentration then shifted on to judgment of how Internet affected the business."
Abstract The writer describes his internship project at the Asheville Audiology Services (AAS), where he worked in their human resources department and was tasked to write the company's personnel manual. The writer explains why it was a different experience for him and how this project highlighted his own personal strengths and weaknesses. The writer relates the insights he garnered from this internship project at AAS.
From the Paper "Internship during college allows one to practice what has been learned in are real world setting. I did my internship project at the Asheville Audiology Services, whose core business competency is providing service that enhances and preserves hearing using modern and proven tools and methodologies. At the AAS, I worked in their human resources department where I was tasked to write the company's personnel manual. The outline of their personnel manual was based on existing provisions in the healthcare industry and I had to do research not only on employment laws but on healthcare laws as well. In order to understand the audiology practice better and incorporate its unique organizational requirements, I met with the AAS owner once a week to present drafts and get further inputs that helped in improving the employee manual. I was fortunate enough to be allowed to worked on the AAS personnel manual independently from home and submit completed sections during my weekly meeting with the owner. The task was completed in two months and I was proud of being able to fulfill my task."
