Abstract Based on an informal survey (conducted in 2003) of 15 retail gasoline outlets in the Los Angeles area, pricing differentials are observed between "majors" and convenience/supermarket outlets. This essay explores the reasons for price differentials.
From the Paper "Retail pricing for gasoline has a marked differential depending onthe location brand grade or service level. This paper explores the reasons behind these apparent anomalies and tries to explain the ..."
Tags: Pricing, differentials/retail/gasoline, distribution
Abstract The paper examines the controversy over the differentiated instruction approach by delineating and discussing the arguments on both sides. Both the pro and the con arguments are described. This is followed by the formulation of conclusions about differentiated instruction that each side would derive based on their differing arguments.
Abstract This paper discusses the issue of differentiated instruction in the classroom. The paper contends that the success of differentiated instruction rests ultimately in the hands of teachers who, for better or for worse, will decide its fate. The paper explains that the attention that teachers find in the use of differentiated instruction is a direct result of actual use of the program's constituent elements. If differentiated instruction serves teachers well and provides them with both the growth in student understanding and concept mastery that they desire, along with the achievement of standardized testing accomplishment, teachers will rally around the idea and see that it is promoted.
Outline
Introduction and Statement of Problem
What is Differentiated Instruction?
Why is it so Important in Today's Classroom?
What is Keeping Teachers from Using Differentiated Instruction?
Encouraging more Differentiated Instruction in the Classroom
Examples of Successful Differentiation High School Differentiation District Wide Differentiation High School Algebra II Differentiation 1st Grade Differentiation Conclusion
From the Paper "The differentiation and variety that are but some of the special qualities of humanity too often are lost in the demand for higher scores, better results and more efficient techniques. The gap that exists between the cold, mechanical apparatus of standardized education and the infinitely varying nature of the child results in a theft from society of the educated progeny that it so desperately needs and of the joy and ecstasy of the learning process that children should be enjoying. In many ways "[T]he urgent drives out the important; the future goes largely unexplored; and the capacity to act, rather than the capacity to think and imagine becomes the sole measure for leadership." (Davies 196) This as true for business CEOs as it for those who are charged with the noble and awesome responsibility of educating the nation's young. Worse yet, the gap between true educational success and the call by the unfeeling standardizing machine seem to be growing wider. But a method capable of closing this gap and preventing the losses that society and children so often experience may be nearer than many educators had supposed."
Abstract This paper begins by providing information on the background and fundamental elements of differentiated instruction and then briefly describes some success stories when differentiated instruction was applied in the classroom. The success stories described are provided in order to give the reader a better understanding of how the concept of differentiation has been applied in different elementary classroom settings.
Table of Contents
Introduction
What is Differentiated Instruction
Examples of Successful Elementary Differentiated Instruction
Conclusion
From the Paper "As children are mainstreamed into modern classes regardless of differing abilities, today's teachers can draw on lessons provided from teachers of yesteryear to manage the situation. Teachers from one-room schoolhouses have contributed more of a legacy than once thought as they displayed the incredible skill of teaching primary and secondary children not just in the same day, but in the same room as well. But the skills used in those rustic settings have not been lost to time. Instead, they have been preserved and improved upon to meet a new need and to serve a new purpose. Today, "differently-abled" children are all taught in the same classroom and while they are similar in age, the techniques used by current teachers to assure that differentiated lesson plans are delivered effectively are some of the most critical skills needed in the classroom."
Abstract Product differentiation is defined as ?the modification of a product, usually in minor ways, to make it more attractive to the target market and to differentiate it from competitors' products" (Encyclopedia, 2004, par. 1). This paper discusses the concept of product differentiation, as well as how the University of Phoenix can use this concept to add value to its products or services.
From the Paper "In addition to offering weekend and night courses, the University of Phoenix could also offer day courses. Although their competitors already offer mostly day courses, by having them, the University of Phoenix could not only capture night students but also day time students as well. In addition, the University of Phoenix could further diversify their courses to be location specific. For example, in areas where agriculture is prominent, the University of Phoenix could offer degrees that are agriculturally geared. A final example of how the University of Phoenix could differentiate their services from their competitors would be to offer degrees via correspondence courses.''
Abstract This paper compares and contrasts Socrates' differentiated instruction with Plato's streaming in education. The paper analyzes each method of learning individually and discusses how it is applied in the school system. The paper also provides examples of these methods of learning. It concludes that the argument for differentiated instruction is stronger in today's western society, which is focused on the rights of individuals.
Table of Contents:
Differentiated Instruction
Streaming
From the Paper "They may also have chosen a specialized course of study and/or selected a profession in which differentiation may be either difficult or at odds with the needs of that profession. For example someone studying to be a surgeon must master a set a specific skills and content. He or she must know the muscles, nerves, internal organs, a great deal of chemistry and also simple skills like how to bandage a wound! There may be limits to how much "differentiation" an instructor can give at this level. While we might not consider the Socratic method the most efficient way to present much of the highly technical information to be learned in today's world, one might agree that there is a scope and sequence to becoming a doctor - a life time learning schedule not totally different from what Plato envisioned."
Abstract This paper reviews the basic philosophy and principles of the concept of differentiated learning for students. The paper also provides a personal interpretation of the idea, as well as suggestions for putting differentiated learning into practice in the classroom.
Outline:
Introduction: My philosophy of Inclusion
My Philosophy of Differentiating Instruction
The Instructional Strategies I would use in my Classroom
The Behavior Management I would use in my Classroom
Lesson Plan
Conclusion
From the Paper "One of the most effective aspects of using group learning techniques is that it forces students to take responsibility not just for their own grades and learning, but for the performance of their fellow students. Students would be graded upon their own, individual contributions, but they could not let down their fellow group participants. They would have to complete their task, and as the task was within their framework of ability, this would not seem too daunting. Another suggested method of behavior management to ensure student compliance with assignments is to instate a points system, whereby a student can earn a maximum number of points for performing specific diverse tasks relating to a unit, which they can select themselves and tailor to their own interests and levels of ability."
Abstract This paper analyzes Dell's differentiation strategy in areas of direct selling, developing new technologies and meeting customers' expectation. The author describes how Dell differentiated itself from other competitors in the computer industry such as Cisco Systems, Compaq and IBM.
From the Paper "A differentiation strategy incorporates the development of a product or service so it can offer a customer perceived uniqueness in the marketplace that seems to be better than or different from the products of the competition. Because of the product's unique attributes, if suppliers increase their prices the firm may be able to pass along the costs to its customers who cannot find substitute products easily. Dell was founded in 1984 on a simple direct-to-consumer model, which was their differentiation strategy. The idea behind selling computer systems directly to customers was that could better understand customer needs, and efficiently and effectively provide the most compelling computing solutions to meet those needs. This direct business model, according to Dell, eliminates retailers that add unnecessary time and cost. They can also diminish Dell's understanding of customer expectations. The way they differentiated themselves form the market was that Dell builds every system to order and offers their customers powerful, richly-configured systems at competitive prices. Dell also introduces the latest relevant technology much more quickly than companies with slower-moving, indirect retail channels of distribution, thusly being able to turn inventory over every four days on average. Dell's thrive to market leadership results from the company's goal to sell computing products and services that measure up to industry-standard technology, directly to customers."
Abstract This paper begins by analyzing the historical content in which differential association was created, the various influences attributed to assisting in the development of differential association, as well as some of the people who were instrumental in the development. After the presentation of the initial information about the theory, this paper examines the validity of the theory.
From the Paper "Differential Association has all of the elements that are essential in eventually preventing the bulk of crime in society today. Edwin Sutherland introduced differential association theory which states that behavior is learned in one's social environment from other people. By the term differential association, Sutherland meant "the contents of the patterns presented in association" would differ from the individual to individual (Williams, 1999, p.79). Differential Association is appealing because the theory has simple implications and; if the theory is adopted correctly it will give law enforcement their best tool yet in trying to eliminate delinquency before it ever has a chance to take place."
Abstract This paper examines how, by differentiating instruction, the educator can recognize that learners vary in their background, experience, intelligence, knowledge, language, interests, learning styles and unique abilities. It looks at how differentiated instruction provides an approach to learning tailored to individuals of differing capabilities in the same classroom.
From the Paper "Tomlinson explains that classrooms have not changed much over the past century. Teachers still act as if all children of a certain age are at the same level of learning and have similar backgrounds and interests. Also, the schools believe that all students must complete the assignments and projects and the same time. Thus, each student uses the same text book, reads the same sections, answers the same questions and takes the same tests. Grading and assessment is similar for each pupil, as well, despite the differences in abilities and interests among the students. "
Abstract The paper relates that children vary in their ability to acquire information and have different learning styles. The paper examines the tool of differentiating instruction, which means developing multiple avenues of learning, so students with different abilities, interests or educational needs have the opportunity to equally absorb, develop and present concepts and information. The paper explores how differentiated instruction can be incorporated into the reading, writing and speaking curricula.
From the Paper "According to Carol Ann Tomlinson, a specialist in the field of differentiated learning, teachers can best utilize three areas of the curriculum to develop a more flexible curriculum: content, process, and products. Content refers to the concepts, principles, and skills teachers want students to learn. Everyone should have access to the core content: Give struggling learners the same major ideas as their classmates, but adjust the degree of complexity. Teachers can explain the same concept, such as Shakespearean sonnets, to a very young child or a Ph.D. candidate."
A review on an article discussing the insights into the localization of 'mRNA' in embryonic and differentiated mammalian cells as it pertains to how proteins that 'mRNA' code for are localized, modified and expressed.
Abstract This paper reveals the increasing importance of 'mRNA' study in understanding protein synthesis, localization and expression. It discusses the cellular mechanisms and techniques for measuring them. The writer explores the observed effects on development to the differentiation of the most complex cells and concludes that 'mRNA' localization has proven to be a highly conserved and important mechanism in the cell.
From the Paper "When cells are dividing and differentiating into tissues and higher complex structures, each tissue-type cell is uniquely characterized by the membrane bound and cytoplasmic proteins it contains. These various proteins are sequestered within the cell by various mechanisms. The details associated with protein targeting have been the focus of considerable research in the last decade. As a result, a good deal is known about protein sorting signals and the machinery needed for endo and exocytosis as well as the mechanisms for transporting vesicles along microtubules and actin filaments within the cytoplasm. However, less is known about how cytosolic proteins are parceled out within the cytoplasm. It has become increasingly clear that the transport and localization of mRNA, not the proteins alone, plays an important role in the localization of proteins. mRNA localization is an active process highly conserved from a simple Drosophilia oocyte model to a very complex mammalian neuron. It allows for specificity in development and function that would otherwise not be possible."
Abstract Many of the injuries treated by physical therapists involve conducting orthopedic assessments. In order for these evaluations to be effective, the physical therapist must be well-versed in selecting and applying the various assessment techniques required for orthopedic injuries. To this end, this paper provides a review of how orthopedic differential diagnosis can be used to help improve the assessment and treatment of physical therapy patients, followed by a summary of the research in the conclusion.
From the Paper "Physical therapy is typically concerned with the treatment of chronic disabilities and with the restoration of normal functioning to the disabled through physical modes of treatment, such as exercise. This medical specialty area is generally focused on rehabilitating people who have been disabled by pain or ailments that affect the motor functions of the body. Physical medicine is one of a wide variety of treatment modalities that are employed to assist these patients to return to a comfortable and productive life, often in spite of a chronic medical problem."
Abstract This paper details the extent of drug trafficking today and explains how it has major consequences on the entire country. The paper describes the various US policies on drugs and on drug trafficking and shows the weaknesses in them. The author continues by saying that international cooperation is necessary to really control offenders. The paper quotes the criminologist of the time Edwin Sutherland's theory 'Differential Association.' This theory states that criminal behavior is learned behavior and that it is generally learned through social interaction with others. The author explains that a drug abuser learns from his environment and thus by correcting the surroundings of an offender, the behaviour can be affected.
From the Paper "The problem of drug trafficking in America today is indeed an enormous one, with severe repercussions and ramifications for the future of the entire country. When the retired General Barry McCaffrey, the Director of the White House's Office of drug Control Policy was on an official visit to Peru, Peru was in the midst of a long string of scandals that were having an adverse impact on the Peruvian administration. Facts and figures revealed that there had been discovered a shipment of about one hundred and seventy kilograms of the drug cocaine, on board the air force plane that Fujimori, the President of Peru normally used on his travels to and from his country. Soon afterwards, about forty-five kilograms of cocaine were again found on board a ship that belonged to the Peruvian navy, in Vancouver, in Canada. When accusations were flung at each other, it was eventually decided that it was the Peruvian Montesinos who had been protecting an entire drug clan, named 'Lopez Paredes' which was engaged in drug trafficking on a large scale. This organization was supposedly dismantled in the year 1995, but amazingly, in the middle of August, the accused individual, called Demetrio Chavez, also known to some as 'El Vaticano', revealed in a Court that he had in fact been paying the Peruvian Montesinos the sum of $ US 50,000 every month so that he would be protected from inquiry of all his various drug trafficking operations."
This paper discusses the application of the sociological process theory of differential association-reinforcement theory in social policy initiatives for juvenile justice.
675 words (approx. 2.7 pages), 2 sources, 2005, $ 26.95
Abstract This paper examines the use of the differential association-reinforcement theory to help re-adapt juvenile delinquents into new reward systems. The author points out the the plans of the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP to observe this practical policy initiative for interacting and guiding families to support the children for environment reconstruction. The paper relates that this aspect of the learning theory proves the validity of giving hope to youths, who have become criminalized by peers or crime organizations, to find a new way of life.
From the Paper "This sociological study will examine the role of sociological process theory within the policy formation initiatives that are now being used within social criminological programs. By understanding the theories that present these initiatives, one can realize how theory implicates policy in society. Also, addressing how social development theories play into Differential-Association-Reinforcement will be evaluated to show how effective this theory is in developing policies for institutions. The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) uses a social development process for "preventing delinquency; intervening in early delinquent behavior, and responding to serious, violent and chronic offending" (254). In this manner, the process of rewards and punishments are being implemented to help families become more aware of how they teach their children, and what environment they are learning delinquency."
