Abstract Applied ethics study involves the examination and understanding of why ethics are important and exactly how they enhance the life of business, personal, and spiritual endeavors around them. This paper is a discussion about why it is important to study applied ethics. The writer explores the many areas where applied ethics presents itself, including skill building, knowledge acquisition, and practical applications.
From the Paper "The ability to study and utilize those studies when it comes to applied ethics often provides a backdrop for people who have to make decisions to bounce them around and be sure they are choosing the most ethically and morally responsible choice. This holds true in the medical field when it comes to questions of practice or research but it also plays a part in the business world in how to handle clients, or how to present products and services to potential clients."
Abstract This paper discusses applied behavior analysis (ABA) and explains that it follows accepted theory that autism is neurologically based and affects a variety of behaviors. An attempt is made in the paper to differentiate between applied behavior analysis (ABA) and any of the myriad programs of behavioral modification which rely on it as a basis for their work. The paper also relates the seven essential elements that make up the ABA approach and provides general recommendations as to what constitutes a good program. The paper contends that parents' first priority must be to have their child evaluated with an acceptable assessment test. The paper then discusses how the goal of applied behavior analysis may be achieved when the child can be satisfactorily mainstreamed.
From the Paper "Today it is in the news for its use with children, particularly those children diagnosed with autism. But it is important to make the differentiation between ABA and any of the myriad programs of behavioral modification which rely on it as a basis for their work. ABA is not a program in itself. It is a framework for a scientific approach to the problem. It is, rather, an umbrella under which many different systems and theories can operate. It may seem to be splitting hairs, but ABA is not synonymous with any of the various programs which may claim it as their own private domain."
This paper examines the five key educational principles of operant conditioning, which, when applied correctly in the classroom, are effective in both reinforcement and punishment.
Abstract This paper details the five key educational innovations attributed to the principles of operant conditioning. The five areas consist of: Instructional objectives, programmed instruction, mastery learning, contingency contracts and applied behavior analysis. Each particular area is built to work on a cycle of reinforcement and punishment and evokes the prime basis of operant conditioning. This paper describes how when applying these operant conditioning techniques correctly behaviors that are desired to increase are reinforced while behaviors sought to decrease are punished. The goal being that for the latter to work, the punishment must be effective. This paper discusses the use of operant conditioning in the classrooms, which has been proven effective and is a commonly utilized technique in education. The writer of this paper contends that operant conditioning is actually employed in classroom settings as an effective tool not only for the teachers but for the students as well.
From the Paper "In operant conditioning, it is a prerequisite that terminal (i.e. desired) behaviors be specified in precise, observable terms prior to the beginning of conditioning1. Rather then referring to educationally based goals as "instructional objectives", then, the sought for ideal is a "behavioral objective" with three basic specified components: an observable
and measurable outcome, explanation of the conditions under which the behavior should be exhibited, and the criterion for judging the acceptable performance of the behavior. An example of the later criterion would be that a student performs above a reasonably assigned goal on examinations. Utilizing objectives in this way allows teachers to make clear goals for their students."
Abstract This paper examines motivation and leadership and elements of psychology applied to work. The author provides examples of work situations and problems dealing with employees, and analyzes methods on how to solve problems, provide leadership, and motivate employees for more efficiency.
This paper applies various management theories, such as Just-in-Time (JIT), Total Quality Management (TQM), Optimized Production Technology (OPT), to hotel valet services.
Abstract This paper stresses that, while most of these management concepts were designed for manufacturing facilities, they can be used, within reasonable limits, for the service industry that utilizes equipment and fixed assets. The author suggests, applying TQM, that customers of the hotel's valet parking will be surveyed occasionally to determine if they are satisfied with the services, and recommendations for improvement by regular customers may help the owner/operator streamline the operations. The paper relates that TQM and TOC use SPC charts, random sampling techniques, and statistical methods to monitor constantly the process; however, communication is the most important requirement.
Table of Contents
Statistical Process Control (SPC)
Continuous Improvement
Employee Empowerment, Regular and Periodic Training-- An Involved Worker
Operational Expense
Profits
Tools and Techniques Used
Process Improvement
Inventory
Mindset of the Company-Orientation
From the Paper "Using statistical quality methods, small changes can be undertaken at various stages of manufacturing to ensure that the final product is within desired quality limits. In the case of a valet parking for a hotel, some method of tracking the average time cars are parked may help the owner determine the efficiency and the effective space utilization of the area in the long run. Records that indicate how long a worker took to get and park a car can be use to calculate the mean time requirements for the parking service."
Tags: throughput, survey, sampling, employee, communication
Abstract Leadership has been a subject that has received much attention in the business world. Two authors that have provided important information on the subject are Stephen R. Covey, in "Principle Centered Leadership", and John P. Kotter, in "What Leaders Really Do". Both of these authors offer new ideas on the subject, Covey by describing an alternative approach to leadership, and Kotter by providing a thorough analysis of what real managers are doing wrong. This paper provides an overview of both books before applying these theories to a the author's position as manager of a furniture store.
From the Paper "It is also worth noting that whether or not human aspects of employees are recognized, they continue to exist. For example, if someone tends to be lazy, this is not going to go away just because we say people should not be lazy. A more understanding approach would recognize that all people can become lazy when they are in jobs that they consider boring or unfulfilling. Recognizing this then gives the leader the opportunity to develop an effective solution. In this way, being understanding is of benefit to both the individual and the business."
This paper examines how the system of performance measurement is applied in business to gain insight and make judgements regarding the effectiveness and efficiency of programs and processes.
Abstract This paper defines performance measurement as a system for determining how a program is accomplishing its mission through the delivery of products, services or processes. The writer of this paper discusses the effectiveness of performance measurement as an ongoing, periodic method for determining whether a program is accomplishing its goals. This paper details the three main components of performance measurements which are comprised of: Planning, implementation and evaluation. This paper also delves into the four types of performance measures which include: Input, output, effective/outcome and efficiency measures. This paper also contains a chart which shows how various types of industry would benefit by applying the above mentioned performance measurement techniques.
Table of Contents:
Overview of Performance Measures
Type of Performance Measures
Output Measures
Effectiveness/Outcome Measures
Efficiency Measures
Benchmarks
FY 01 Performance Measures
From the Paper "Output indicators measure the quantity or volume of products and services provided to a program. Output indicators are commonly referred to as workload, or activity measures. This had been the most commonly used measurement in budget documents of the recent past. For example: an output of 800 participants for the Social Services Annual Flu Shot Program; an output of 7,800 user support occurrences for MIS. For the FY 01 Proposed Budget document, activity measures are not shown; however, Departments will continue to collect and track output measures as a means of measuring performance."
Abstract Whether knowingly or unknowingly, human nature initiates an active process of sensory input that constructs meaning and ultimately provides knowledge output from information received, and experiences lived. This paper examines modern and postmodern theories pertaining to the subject and applies them to the world around us.
From the Paper "In using diversity as a way of seeing an organization, the corporate culture becomes a set of competing value systems, or subculture groups. These subcultures may include social, ethnic, or even professional categories, and depending upon the commitment that employees place on them, they can become oppositions to the organization's overarching culture. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but rather, an innovative way of exploring how employees learn through diversity".
Abstract The purpose of this action research paper is to select appropriate testing material to place students into Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) environments and consider other programs or avenues for the remainder of the students.
Outline:
Introduction
Purpose
Research Questions
Chapter II
Literature Review
Reasons for the Implementation of VCAL
Outcomes of VCAL and Other Programs
Chapter 3
Action Research
Methodology
Findings and Results
Discussion and Conclusion
What Does This Mean to Special Education Intervention?
From the Paper "Additionally, the report presented to the Victorian Government related to post-compulsory education and training pathways also focused on the predicament of the 11,000 young adults in Victoria leaving school each year without possessing any recognised qualifications (Ministerial Review, 2000; Praetz, 2002). The report found that both the quality of the labour market and the quality of schooling influenced student decisions to leave school prior to completing year 12. In addition, through the use of a regional analysis, the report found that dropping out of school was also influenced by socioeconomic level (Ministerial Review, 2000; Praetz, 2002). In fact, nearly 30% of girls and 40% of boys in low socioeconomic status areas leave school prior to completing year 12 (Ministerial Review, 2000; Praetz, 2002). The research also found that within these regions, student achievement was relatively weak (Ministerial Review, 2000; Praetz, 2002). "
Abstract How does cognitive psychology apply to the real world, most especially how does it apply to a specific occupation, that of the aircraft technician/mechanic? To answer these questions, this paper examines the meaning of cognitive psychology and the various psychologists who shaped this theory. The paper then explores the skills and duties required to be an aircraft technician.
Paper Outline:
Introduction
What is Cognitive Psychology
Early Twentieth Century
Reemergence Of Cognitive Psychology
The Aircraft Technician's Skills and Duties
How Does Cognitive Psychology Apply toward Understanding the Aircraft Technician's Job?
Conclusion
Bibliography
From the Paper "Not only must an airplane mechanic know about airplanes, but also he or she must be able to multi-task on a regular basis. An airplane mechanic may be a specialist in airplanes or even certain types of airplanes but the occupation itself requires that the individual have a number of skills and be able to use any one of them at a moments notice. For instance, an airplane mechanic must be able to start and run aircraft in order to perform operational tests using live aircraft engine power. He or she must be able to both tow and service the aircraft. In order to do this, the mechanic must have passed specific licensing requirements."
Abstract This paper applies the personality theories of Karen Horney, Erik Erikson, Abraham Maslow, and Gordon Allport to the life of John Lennon. The author gives a detailed analysis of the development stages of each theory, how they apply to John Lennon and how they are used to explain, understand as well as predict behavior.
From the Paper "Personality is the term used to describe the enduring, stable characteristics of our lives as they are perceived by ourselves and others (Schultz, D. & Schultz, S.,2001). It is consistent throughout our lifetime and across varying situations, and is the driving force behind all our decisions and actions. Formal personality theories are created by psychologists, and are used to explain and understand behavior, as well as predict it. Useful personality theories should be able to be tested, and the results should be used to accept or reject parts of the theory. The best way to test a personality theory is to apply it to a real person, someone who has gone through all the proposed stages or sections of the theory, to see if the components of the theory hold true in real life. A good theory should provide explanations for the various actions and choices that a person has made in their life, a poor theory would leave these questions unanswered."
Abstract Narcissism as it applies to psychology was first applied by Freud who drew it from the obvious connection to the Greek mythological character, Narcissus who was involved in an exclusive self-absorption. While considered a completely normal and natural stage in child development, narcissism is marked by that period in our lives when the entire world exists because we are there. In adolescence, after puberty, secondary narcissism occurs and is manifested in a sexual expression that is directed exclusively toward the self. Some degree of narcissism throughout all stages of life is considered normal as it is manifested in a healthy self-regard coupled with realistic aspirations for the self and life. The point at which narcissism becomes pathological and can be diagnosed as a personality disorder is when it begins to impair social function. Individuals with this disorder have little or no empathy for others and an inflated sense of their own importance and of the significance of their achievements. It is common for persons with this disorder to compare themselves to famous people of achievement and to express surprise when others do not share or voice the same perception. They feel entitled to great praise, attention, and deferential treatment by others, and have difficulty understanding or acknowledging the needs of others. They envy others and imagine that others are envious of them. The person with narcissistic personality disorder has no patience with others, and quickly strays from situations where he or she is not the center of attention and conversation. A person who demonstrates narcissistic personality disorder tends to maintain a highly exaggerated sense of self-importance and "specialness". Often, the clinically diagnosed narcissist is frequently occupied, to an excess, with fantasies about his/her own attributes and potentials for success in all aspects of life, and also generally depends upon confirmation from others for reinforcement of that self-image. The narcissist tends to experience difficulties maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships, stemming primarily from a distinct lack of empathy with a propensity for the taking of advantage of others in the interest of self-aggrandizement. Narcissism is often diagnosed comorbidly with antisocial personality disorders.
Abstract This essay discusses how the Just War theory applies to the present war against terrorism. Its seven criteria apply to the just war against terrorism.
Abstract This paper will discuss how the theory of Herzberg can be applied to a situational worker and how his theories can be used in this way. The Motivational Theories or Motivation-Hygiene Theory of Herzberg will be implemented to show the ways that an employee can be better influenced to motivate on the job. An analysis of this perspective will show how the two correlate and make a systematic format to help keep an employee up to the standards that an excellent company should apply in this workplace dimension.
Abstract This paper describes the meaning of the term 'Western' as it applies to music. The word 'Western' has meaning only in terms of the West (European and American countries, for instance). The word 'Western' in terms of cowboys does not apply to Western classical music, which regardless of its performers now, has originated in Europe.
